The Big Story

Laura Palmer, host of Island Crime, returns to discuss the tragic conclusion of Amber Manthorne's case. She shares the emotional turmoil faced by Amber's family as they sought answers. The podcast delves into police updates from a recent press conference and the investigative efforts that captivated the public's attention. Palmer also reflects on engaging with media and law enforcement during the investigation, showcasing the delicate balance between hope and heartbreak in the search for truth.

Shannon Terrell, lead writer and spokesperson for NerdWallet, dives into the intricate world of credit cards, offering invaluable insights for Canadians. She highlights the importance of understanding annual fees, rewards structures, and interest rates to select the best card for individual financial goals. The discussion touches on maximizing rewards based on personal spending habits, evaluating perks against usage, and navigating balance transfers. Shannon equips listeners with strategies to make informed credit card choices, crucial in today's economic climate.

Jeff Wise, a New York-based science journalist and host of Finding MH370, dives into the intriguing world of flying cars. He discusses how these electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOLs) have finally emerged but face significant operational and regulatory hurdles. From safety concerns to FAA certification challenges, the conversation uncovers the complexities behind this futuristic technology. Wise also highlights how flying cars may become luxury items rather than mainstream modes of transport and how the vision of a flying future still grapples with reality.

In this engaging discussion, Chris Fogarty, a meteorologist and program manager at the Canadian Hurricane Centre, delves into the evolving nature of hurricanes in Canada. He highlights the recent onslaught of storms like Helene and Milton, stressing the rising intensity linked to climate change. Fogarty also explains the unusual frequency of hurricanes and the complexities in forecasting their impacts. He emphasizes the importance of separating scientific facts from misinformation and the need for better public preparedness for future storms.

Natalie Mehra, Executive Director of the Ontario Health Coalition, dives into the evolving role of pharmacists in Canada’s healthcare system. With millions lacking family doctors, pharmacists can now prescribe for minor ailments, a potential game-changer but fraught with concerns over training and misdiagnosis. She discusses the pressures leading to this shift, the impact of for-profit healthcare on access, and the urgent need for team-based, non-profit care models. The balance between expanding pharmacist roles and maintaining quality care raises important questions for the future.

Simon Lewsen, a Toronto-based journalist for Maclean's, explores the controversy surrounding New Brunswick's Policy 713, which ignited the fiery debate over parental rights in Canada. He delves into the origins of the policy and its unexpected transformation into a national issue. The discussion includes heartwarming family stories, the complexities of children's rights, and the challenging balance between privacy and parental involvement. Lewsen highlights how a simple rule sparked a significant societal shift, now crucial in upcoming elections.

Listeners chime in on the podcast's editorial independence and the balance between corporate ties and transparency. Humorous stories surface about unconventional tipping practices, sparking a debate on changing norms. The discussion takes a serious turn with the controversial decision to let convenience stores sell alcohol, raising public health concerns. Rural listeners express feelings of neglect as the hosts tackle the complex interplay of humor and political discourse. Feedback continues to shape the dynamic conversations, making for an engaging listening experience!

Unearth chilling ghost stories from Saint Leonards, Newfoundland, where headless dogs roam and phantom ships glide. Discover the vibrant customs of this fishing community, like Shrove Tuesday pancake breakfasts and eerie tales centered around Liza's Rock. Learn about the emotional impact of a government resettlement initiative that scattered families and traditions. Delve into the haunting legend of the avenging skull, revealing how the past still echoes through its desolate landscapes and the significance of remembering lost communities.

Doug Hoyes, a licensed insolvency trustee and co-founder of Hoyes Michael Associates, delves into Canada's rising consumer insolvency rates, nearing levels last seen during the 2008 crisis. He discusses the stark difference between insolvency and bankruptcy, and the critical role of consumer proposals. Hoyes emphasizes how high living costs, stagnant wages, and debt contribute to financial instability. He offers insights on recognizing warning signs and the importance of seeking help early to navigate financial challenges.

In this discussion with Dr. Valerie Tarasuk, a leading expert on food insecurity, the alarming rise of hunger in Canada is laid bare. Almost 23% of households struggle to access food, exacerbated by the pandemic and inflation. She critiques the reliance on food banks as a temporary fix, arguing systemic change is essential. The conversation also explores the disparity between holiday feasts and the plight of those in need, urging community action and policy reform to address the root causes of this growing crisis.