The podcast delves into the rich history of Africville and the ongoing fight for its reclamation. It emphasizes the importance of unity among survivors and their descendants to restore their community. Experts share insights on practical solutions and successful land reclamation efforts around the world. The power of storytelling is highlighted as a vital tool for healing and fostering community connections. The discussion wraps up with a call for continued advocacy, addressing broader themes of displacement and cultural loss within Black communities.

Discover how Montreal is reclaiming its streets from cars, transforming urban spaces into pedestrian-friendly areas. Hear about the city’s innovative traffic calming measures that enhance safety and community life. Learn from successful initiatives led by local leaders that benefit neighborhoods and businesses alike. Explore global trends towards car-free cities, with Montreal as a shining example showcasing how community engagement makes a difference. Dive into the shift towards bike-friendly infrastructure and the future of urban mobility in Canada.

The podcast dives into the surprising shift in political support among immigrants in Canada, revealing a growing alignment with the Conservative Party. It discusses the role housing and affordability issues play in changing sentiments. Experts highlight the importance of reassessing immigration policies and resist scapegoating immigrants for societal problems. Additionally, it examines evolving perceptions of the Canadian dream, where homeownership feels increasingly out of reach, illustrating the complex realities immigrants face despite their positive outlook on the move.

Dr. Randa Slim, Director of the Conflict Resolution and Track II Dialogues Program at the Middle East Institute, discusses the alarming escalation of conflict in the Middle East. With Israel's invasion of Lebanon and Iran’s missile strikes, the situation is dire. They explore the historical ties between Iran and Hezbollah, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the risks of a broader regional war. Slim emphasizes the urgent need for de-escalation strategies and reflects on the potential consequences of military actions on civilians and international relations.

The US Department of Justice is probing software that allegedly allows landlords to fix rental prices, raising concerns about digital price fixing. Insights from a corporate landlord's confession reveal this tactic is not just American but spreading in Canada too. The discussion dives into the mechanics of how algorithms impact rental prices and the lack of transparency in their use. It emphasizes the need for public debate on AI's role in economics and highlights the potential for government intervention to protect tenants.

This discussion assesses Canada's progress on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action, revealing disappointing stagnation over the past two years. Experts express frustration with the government's shift toward economic reconciliation while genuine systemic changes remain unaddressed. The importance of authentic organizational apologies, particularly in healthcare, is highlighted. The role of citizens in influencing Indigenous rights and the potential impact of upcoming elections on reconciliation efforts are also explored. Challenges like boil water advisories emphasize the need for continuous, informed advocacy.

Discover how Saskatchewan became an unlikely hub for psychedelic research in the 1950s. Unearth the groundbreaking experiments at the Weyburn Mental Hospital, where doctors delved into altered states for therapeutic purposes. Explore the promising use of psychedelics like LSD in addiction recovery, offering transformative insights. Delve into the cultural and economic factors that led to their criminalization and the recent renaissance in mental health treatment. It's a captivating journey through the evolving landscape of psychedelics and psychiatry.

This episode first aired on September 26, 2024 over at In This Economy?!, our sister show at the Frequency Podcast Network. The show helps Canadians understand the systems behind their money problems so they can make informed decisions about their personal finances. If you like what you hear, please consider giving us a follow! The federal government has announced changes to mortgage amortizations and insurance rules, calling them “the most significant mortgage reforms in decades.”  But what do these changes really mean for new home buyers? And existing ones? Will they help with the affordability crisis, or focus more on accessibility? GUEST: Angela Calla, accredited mortgage professional and author of 'The Mortgage Code' 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 one of the most iconic photographic portraits in world history—and it hangs in one of the most famous buildings in the Canadian capital. At least it did, until it was stolen...The story of The Roaring Lion theft involves international intrigue, world history, careful detective work and one of this country's most renowned artists. But most of all, it's a riveting heist tale that spans from Canada to Europe, and who doesn't love one of those?GUEST: Brett Popplewell, author, reporter, associate professor; writing in The Walrus 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

Discover the intriguing world of government consulting, spotlighting the tensions between McKinsey and its fossil fuel clients. Delve into the hefty contracts awarded for the controversial Trans Mountain pipeline project and the transparency issues surrounding them. Explore the confusing overlaps between clean energy advice and oil dependence. The discussion raises pressing questions about the effectiveness and accountability of government spending in the face of significant budget overruns and potential conflicts of interest.