The Big Story

Kelley Keehn, a personal finance educator and CEO of the Money Wise Institute, dives into the intricacies of Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) payment options. She explains its rise among younger consumers and the structure of BNPL payments, emphasizing potential risks and fees. Kelley discusses spending habits during the holidays, the psychological factors at play, and the importance of understanding one’s financial personality. She also shares strategies for responsible use of BNPL and introduces insights from her new book on money identity and behavior.

Join Jenn Trepeck, writer and wellness expert, as she unravels the mystery behind holiday indulgence and willpower. Discover why willpower isn’t a moral failure, but a depletable resource. Jenn explains fascinating concepts like decision fatigue and how daily choices wear us down. Learn practical strategies to strengthen your willpower ahead of tempting situations and why focusing on generosity can help maintain your resolve. With tips for sustainable habits and enjoying treats mindfully, you’ll feel empowered to navigate the holiday season!

In this holiday special, listeners get real career advice on pressing topics. Emily discusses how to cope with a boss who disregards employee well-being and emphasizes the importance of knowing when to quit. She tackles the tricky decision of accepting a 23% pay cut and offers insights on navigating the recruitment process with patience. Other highlights include the need for effective communication when seeking a full-time position from a contractor role and validating the decision to leave a job without guilt. Perfect for anyone rethinking their career!

In a captivating discussion, Eric Kam, a professor of economics at Toronto Metropolitan University, analyzes Canada's tumultuous business landscape of 2025. He reflects on the dramatic collapse of Hudson's Bay as a symbol of retail decline. The conversation dives into the auto industry's struggles, including dwindling EV demand and tariff impacts. Kam explains why Canadian banks remain resilient amid market uncertainties and explores the complex dynamics of AI investment versus consumer hesitancy. A thought-provoking look at a pivotal year for Canada!

Happy Holidays from Frequency Podcast Network! Over the next couple weeks, we'll be joined by the Friends of Frequency (FOF).In this special feed drop on The Big Story, Parliament Hill Bureau Chief for CityNews and political correspondent Glen McGregor discuss the biggest political headlines of 2025. They recap Justin Trudeau's resignation, the 2025 Federal Election, the future of the NDP and what lies ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney's uphill battle with US President Donald Trump. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

It's been a tumultuous year for the economy to say the least, especially in the interest of real estate and housing.The Bank of Canada cut interest rates nine times, yet buyers are still erring on the side of caution, waiting for some sort of stability before diving head-first into the market.Host Mike Eppel speaks to Shawn Zigelstein, broker and team leader for Royal Lepage to see what Canadians could expect heading into 2026. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Starting in 2029, the Oscars will be making its way to the big screen - YouTube. The change will come after more than 50 years of Disney's ABC having exclusive rights to the live broadcast. It's not the first shift Hollywood has seen from traditional broadcast spaces onto streaming media platforms, as the industry is looking to adapt to younger, online consumers.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Paolo Granata, associate professor at the University of Toronto to discuss the opportunities the Academy Awards has as it prepares to enter a new broadcast space, and how the media ecosystem is more intertwined than we think. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Ryan Katz-Rozene, an associate professor at the University of Ottawa specializing in sustainable transportation, dives into Canada's long-awaited high-speed rail project. He discusses Canadians' skepticism due to a history of unfulfilled promises and the chosen Montreal-Ottawa segment's strategic advantages. Funding uncertainties and political risks loom large, while Katz-Rozene highlights the importance of public-private partnerships for viability. He expresses concerns about shifting transport trends and gives a cautious 50-50 outlook on the project's future.

Sadaf Ahsan, a culture writer and co-host of The Reheat podcast, dives into the shocking news surrounding Rob and Michele Reiner's deaths, focusing on the implications for Hollywood and society. She discusses the importance of mental health in the current investigation and reflects on Rob's impactful films and activism. The conversation also covers the complexities of family dynamics and media reporting while analyzing Rob Reiner's timeless storytelling and enduring legacy in film and civil rights advocacy.

Dr. Howard Chertkow, a leading researcher at Baycrest Health Sciences, dives into the intricacies of aging and cognitive decline. He discusses normal memory lapses versus concerning symptoms of dementia, highlighting the unique risks women face. Practical advice for families navigating these tough conversations emerges, including attending doctor visits together and addressing stigmas. Chertkow also emphasizes the importance of investigating treatable causes and the need for national strategies to support aging Canadians. An insightful discussion filled with valuable information!