The Big Story

Lori Williams, a political scientist at Mount Royal University, dives into the critical last week before Canada's pivotal election. She discusses how U.S. trade threats and leadership dynamics are reshaping voter motivations. With polling shifts revealing a dramatic 35-point change, Williams examines the strategic maneuvers by parties to engage voters. The conversation highlights the potential for last-minute sentiment swings and the implications for both the Liberals and the NDP as they gear up for this existential vote.

Justin Ling, a journalist and author of the Chaos Campaign newsletter, dives into the changing political landscape in Canada as the nation gears up for a critical election. He discusses how political conversations are shifting, transcending previous taboos. Ling explains the dual influence of economic anxiety and the polarized impact of Donald Trump on voter behavior. The conversation also critiques the toxic role of social media in political engagement and explores alternative online platforms that could foster healthier political discourse.

Constitutional law expert Eric Adams from the University of Alberta discusses the controversial Notwithstanding Clause of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. He explains its historical context and why it sparks debate about legislative versus judicial authority. Adams dives into recent political proposals to use the clause for criminal justice reforms, such as reviving consecutive life sentences. He highlights the potential impact on individual rights and the importance of safeguards against governmental overreach in Canadian democracy.

Frédéric Dimanche, Director and Professor at the Ted Rogers School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, shares insights on safety for Canadians traveling to the U.S. He discusses the rising tensions and intimidating headlines that have affected travel perceptions. Dimanche addresses new regulations for Canadians staying over 30 days and explains the necessity of registering with U.S. authorities. He also offers practical advice on how to navigate border crossings smoothly, emphasizing the importance of staying calm and low-key amidst heightened scrutiny.

Dianne Benson, an expert from Elections Canada, delves into the vital aspects of voting in the upcoming federal election. Voters will learn where to vote, what identification is necessary, and what to do if they don't have a voter information card. She discusses accessibility for individuals with disabilities and the importance of understanding one’s voting rights. The conversation also touches on the impact of misinformation and the protocols in place to ensure smooth Election Day experiences. Dianne ensures you’re well-prepared before casting your ballot!

Tim Richter, CEO of the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, sheds light on Canada's urgent housing crisis. He discusses the ambitious promises of federal parties but questions if they're sufficient to truly address affordability. The conversation delves into the impact of foreign investment on housing prices and highlights the pressing need for government intervention. Richter advocates for a national housing accord and an innovative approach to the construction workforce to meet rising demands in housing availability. It's a critical call for action as elections approach.

Join Dr. Shimi Kang, a psychiatrist and best-selling author known for 'The Dolphin Parent,' as she dives into the complexities of gentle parenting. She discusses the mental health strains of modern parenting, highlighting factors like technology, financial pressure, and societal expectations that contribute to burnout. Dr. Kang also explores balancing authority with empathy and introduces the concept of dolphin-style parenting, which harmonizes different approaches. Tune in for insightful advice on navigating the challenges of raising emotionally healthy children.

Colin Horgan, a Guardian contributor known for his insights on hockey and politics, discusses Alex Ovechkin's record-breaking milestone of surpassing Wayne Gretzky's goal tally. While fans celebrate this on-ice achievement, Horgan delves into the controversy surrounding Ovechkin's support for Putin amidst the backdrop of the Ukraine crisis. The conversation explores how political affiliations complicate perceptions of athletic greatness, revealing the intertwined nature of sports and politics.

Join Philip Petursson, Chief Investment Strategist at I.G. Wealth Management, as he navigates the complexities of today's volatile markets. He reflects on the recent massive market downturn and the surprising rebounds, such as the S&P/TSX's best day in five years. Philip discusses the emotional impact of recession fears on investors and the critical need for rational decision-making. He also highlights the importance of portfolio diversification and the potential benefits of looking beyond U.S. equities for stability in uncertain times.

In this discussion, Gina Lorentz, Professor and Coordinator of Fanshawe College’s Multimedia Journalism program, dives into the impact of Canada's cap on international student visas. She highlights how this policy is straining journalism programs and limiting enrollment, which poses a threat to local journalism and democracy. Lorentz also examines the challenges faced by international students, including housing and financial burdens, and emphasizes the shift in news consumption towards social media, questioning the future credibility of journalism.