The Big Story

This weekend, we're revisiting an episode from earlier in the year.We hope you enjoy!-------------------------------------------There's simply never been a Canadian sex survey that's comprehensive, scientific and intimate all at once. For decades we've relied on data from the United States, unscientific surveys thrown together by brands around Valentine's Day or specific looks at one narrow aspect of sexuality—such as contraception or monogamy.In her new book released today, Sex in Canada: The Who, Why, When, and How of Getting Down Up North, McMaster University sociology professor Tina Fetner examines every aspect of how we do it, who we do it with, how often and ... if it's good. As well as everything else you always wondered about your neighbours in the bedroom...GUEST: Tina Fetner, professor, McMaster University 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

This episode first aired on September 19, 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! It's been quite a long (and expensive!) journey, but the latest numbers show that the inflation rate in Canada has finally fallen to the Bank of Canada's "target rate" for the first time in more than three years. So does that mean all our troubles are over? Why is two percent the ideal target for the BoC? And what does this data tell us about the economy we'll be living in for the next several months? GUEST: Mike Eppel, 680 News Sr. Business Editor 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

This is a province with a long and strange history of alcohol regulation. But when Ontario premier Doug Ford announced plans to allow convenience stores to sell beer, wine and coolers beginning in September, it seemed like a modest step—one in keeping with similar provinces and states which have long allowed this.However, this being Ontario and alcoholic beverages, it is not that simple. The move has cost the government hundreds of millions of dollars, sparked a discussion about the availability of intoxicants, incited outrage from various advocacy groups and has lived up to Ontario's reputation as a province who cannot simply be normal about its booze.GUEST: Matt Gurney, journalist, commentator and co-founder of The Line 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

An Ohio town erupts in chaos due to racist bomb threats. Immigrants are unfairly targeted in political games. Women face dire consequences without reproductive care access. In a surprising twist, cat memes dominate political discourse, even becoming metaphors in debates. Rumors swirl about Haitian immigrants and pets, showcasing the bizarre intersection of internet culture and politics. Amid election anxiety, humor emerges through these memes, providing a strange comfort in turbulent times.

In a gripping exploration of systemic issues, the podcast sheds light on the recent deaths of six Indigenous individuals in police encounters across Canada. It highlights the urgent need for reform and thoughtful community responses to these tragedies. Personal stories emphasize the impact on families and the community's grief, while advocates discuss the potential for non-police interventions. The dialogue also delves into grassroots efforts and the complex relationship between Indigenous communities and law enforcement, underscoring a mix of hope and skepticism for meaningful change.

A chilling terror plot was foiled just days before September 11, involving a Pakistani suspect planning an attack in New York. The investigation raises questions about surveillance tactics and the fine line between security and privacy. The psychological factors driving radicalization are explored, shedding light on the motivations behind such plots. As anti-Semitism rises in Canada, discussions on immigration policies and security concerns highlight the complexities of ensuring national safety while respecting individual rights.

Ben Spurr, the City Hall Bureau Chief at the Toronto Star, dives into an electrifying city council by-election in Don Valley West. He discusses the riveting competition, featuring a conservative pundit eyeing a mayoral comeback and three liberal candidates vying for attention. The stakes are raised with potential vote splitting, high-profile endorsements, and unexpected alliances, as former leaders influence behind the scenes. This by-election promises to be anything but dull, redefining the typical low-turnout narrative.

As political divisions intensify, the gap between the beliefs of men and women widens dramatically, especially among the youth. Young women lean more liberal, influenced by education and social movements. The phenomenon isn't limited to one country; global trends highlight similar divides in places like South Korea and Canada. The implications for future political dynamics are concerning, touching on everything from marriage rates to social media's impact. The discussion underscores the urgency of empathy and real-world connection to bridge these widening gaps.

Lorraine Sommerfeld, a seasoned columnist from Driving.ca, shares her expertise on the shifting dynamics of the automotive market. With dealership lots brimming with new vehicles, she discusses whether this surplus will finally lower car prices that soared during the pandemic. Listeners will learn effective strategies for buying new versus used cars and gain valuable tips on negotiating deals, understanding trade-ins, and navigating the evolving landscape of electric vehicle depreciation—all while rethinking their car preferences.

In this engaging conversation, Jeff Outhit, a reporter from the Waterloo Region Record, delves into a sensational legal battle involving a woman from Kitchener, Ontario, accused of fraud by an American university. They explore her ties to the controversial My Girl Fund and a mysterious five-year relationship marked by millions in financial exchanges, all without ever meeting in person. The discussion reveals a shocking $13 million embezzlement scandal and dives into the complexities of fraud and legal battles intertwined with real estate schemes, raising questions of accountability.