
The Big Story
An in-depth look at the issues, culture and personalities shaping Canada today.
Latest episodes

10 snips
May 26, 2025 • 22min
Can the shingles vaccine actually lower the risk of dementia?
In an insightful conversation, Sabina Vohra-Miller, founder of Unambiguous Science, discusses a groundbreaking study from Stanford University. The research reveals that older adults vaccinated against shingles have a 20% lower risk of developing dementia over seven years. Sabina delves into how various health factors can influence vaccine efficacy and highlights the surprising link between the Shingrix vaccine and cognitive health. The conversation also addresses vaccine anxiety, emphasizing the importance of empathy in discussions about vaccinations.

May 25, 2025 • 16min
Buying a Cottage? In This Economy!?
The pandemic was a boom time in the cottage industry. As people decamped out of the city, the prices for cottages skyrocketed.However, in this softened real estate market, it's not easy to hold on to two homes, and that's becoming more obvious with the amount of cottages currently on the market.Host Mike Eppel digs into cottage life with Kingsley Ma, area VP of Re/Max Canada.
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

May 24, 2025 • 26min
The Big Debrief: Will the Leafs ever win another Stanley Cup?
In this insightful discussion, reporter and passionate Leafs fan Alex Bloomfield dives into the emotional rollercoaster faced by Toronto Maple Leafs supporters after another playoff disappointment. The conversation highlights recent management changes and the potential impact on the team's future. Bloomfield reflects on the balance between keeping star players like Mitch Marner and the need for a stronger roster. They also analyze the pressures of playing in a high-stakes environment, addressing the ongoing challenges of goaltending and playoff performance.

6 snips
May 23, 2025 • 26min
Cory Doctorow explains Who Broke the Internet
Cory Doctorow, an influential author and tech policy advocate, dives deep into the internet's troubling evolution. He highlights the term 'inshittification', explaining how profit-driven decisions have led to a frustrating online landscape filled with ads and algorithms. Doctorow discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by big tech, particularly Google, and how a Canadian law has limited consumer rights. He sheds light on the historical roots of antitrust laws and their relevance today, illustrating the ongoing battle between corporate interests and user rights.

May 22, 2025 • 24min
The Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial explained
In this insightful discussion, award-winning journalist Juliet Papa from 1010 WINS New York shares updates on Sean 'Diddy' Combs' high-stakes trial. She unpacks the chilling testimonies and shocking evidence that continue to unfold. Juliet highlights the courtroom's intense atmosphere and the contrasting public reactions, revealing the emotional toll on key witnesses. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced by Combs’ defense team, navigating serious allegations that could alter his legacy forever.

May 21, 2025 • 21min
Another Canada Post strike - what will the impact to businesses be?
Jasmin Guenette, VP of National Affairs at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, dives into the looming postal strike involving 55,000 workers. She discusses its potential impact on small and medium-sized businesses, recalling the financial strain from previous strikes. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for Canada Post to modernize and adapt, including weekend deliveries, while balancing union rights with economic stability. Guenette also outlines what actions the federal government could take to support both the postal service and local businesses.

May 20, 2025 • 18min
Breaking down the Hockey Canada sex assault trial so far
Join CityNews journalist Michelle Mackey as she delves into the shocking Hockey Canada sexual assault trial involving five former players. She provides insight into the intense courtroom atmosphere and the complexities of covering such a high-profile case. Mackey discusses the emotional toll on the complainant, E.M., as she bravely shares her traumatic experience. The trial's shift from jury to judge alone raises significant questions about consent and accountability in sports culture, sparking vital conversations about lasting change.

7 snips
May 19, 2025 • 19min
Is Canada’s EV dream dead?
Tim Dimopoulos, Publisher of Automotive News Canada and an expert on the EV transition, dives into the pressing challenges facing Canada’s electric vehicle industry. He discusses Honda's surprising halt on its $15 billion investment and its far-reaching implications. The conversation shifts to the struggles of Canadian manufacturers amid economic uncertainties and changing policies. Dimopoulos highlights the impact of regional incentive withdrawals and examines whether Canada's ambitious goal for a nearly all-electric production by 2035 can still be realized.

May 18, 2025 • 17min
Weekend listen: No federal budget until the fall - what does that mean for you?
A big week on the budget front, for multiple reasons.Not only did Ontario release a budget that aims to get the province through the trade war, we learned that the new Liberal government will NOT be releasing a spring document.Host of "In This Economy" Mike Eppel digs into the consequences of all the budget news this week and has a sneak peek on what the Bank of Canada might do next.
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

May 17, 2025 • 31min
The Big Debrief: Reaction to PM Carney's choice of cabinet
Today on The Big Story - we're debriefing, big time.Hosts David Smith, Kris McCusker and Cormac Mac Sweeney get together to chat about Prime Minister Carney's choice of cabinet and the fallout from a mixed week on the job.Join us for "The Big Debrief", a weekly examination of the news events of the week, as seen through the eyes of the people reporting on them.
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