

The Big Story
Frequency Podcast Network
An in-depth look at the issues, culture and personalities shaping Canada today.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 27, 2024 • 25min
These days, something's always burning: A fire season preview
In a captivating discussion, author John Vaillant, known for his insights on climate and wildfires, delves into the rising threat of wildfires in Canada. He illustrates how climate change has transformed firefighting tactics and emphasizes the need for adaptive strategies. The Fort McMurray blaze serves as a stark wake-up call, revealing the precarious intersection of urban life and nature. Vaillant stresses that communities must prepare for escalating risks, advocating for immediate climate action to safeguard future resilience against relentless fire seasons.

Jul 26, 2024 • 20min
Welcome to Paris! Here's a Canadian Olympic cheating scandal!
A scandal rocks the Canadian women's soccer team as an analyst is caught using a drone to spy on New Zealand team. Questions arise about the extent of the scheme and the fallout for the team. Sid Seixeiro joins to discuss this Olympic cheating scandal.

Jul 25, 2024 • 16min
How the script flipped in the US presidential election
Vice President Kamala Harris assumes Democratic candidacy following Biden's step down. Explore challenges faced by women in Democratic Party nominations. Analyze reshaping of Republican Party and role of financial resources in campaigns. Discuss potential VP picks for US election and Canada's stake in the election context.

Jul 24, 2024 • 27min
What happens when 8.5 million computers crash at once?
A cybersecurity company's faulty update caused a massive computer crash affecting 1% of global systems. Airlines grounded, businesses halted, highlighting the fragility of digital infrastructure. Expert discusses the lack of preparedness and the need for enhanced cyber resilience.

Jul 23, 2024 • 24min
Inside the rapidly shifting Canadian dental plan
Exploring the challenges and evolution of the Canadian dental plan, including expanding eligibility to children and addressing concerns from dental practitioners. Dr. Brandon Doucet discusses the benefits and limitations of the program, highlighting age restrictions, public delivery models, and potential improvements for better access to dental care.

Jul 22, 2024 • 22min
Tick talk: What to keep in mind before venturing outdoors
Dr. Laura Ferguson, a biologist, discusses the increasing threat of tick-borne illnesses in Canada beyond Lyme disease. The podcast covers the surge in tick populations, symptoms of Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, managing tick populations, promoting plant biodiversity, and preventing tick bites with expert advice on removal.

Jul 19, 2024 • 19min
Crypto. AI. Sex dolls. Robotics. And a Canadian business plan.
Venture into the weird and fascinating world of AI-enhanced robotics, crypto investments, and the transformation of a sex doll company. From realistic skin technology to AI sex robots, this Canadian business tech story is full of surprises and innovation. Join the exploration of future markets, investor reception, and the impact of technology on societal issues.

Jul 18, 2024 • 20min
Rats! How Ontario failed where Alberta succeeded
Exploring the rat problem in Ontario cities like Toronto and Ottawa, while contrasting with Alberta's rat-free success. Discussion on rat control methods such as poison and birth control. Highlight on Alberta's zero tolerance approach and the importance of collective action in addressing rat issues.

Jul 17, 2024 • 19min
When a home purchase leaves the owner homeless...
A woman in Hamilton bought a home but is now homeless because the previous tenant won't leave. The podcast discusses landlord-tenant rules, eviction delays, and the challenges faced by homeowners in such situations.

Jul 16, 2024 • 21min
Inside WestJet's summer strike meltdown
The podcast explores the chaos caused by a 29-hour strike by WestJet mechanics, resulting in over 1,000 flight cancellations and 170,000 stranded passengers. It discusses the challenges faced by travelers in re-booking, seeking compensation, and understanding their rights. The episode also looks into the Canadian Transportation Agency's role in assisting affected individuals and resolving refund issues.


