

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

Jul 15, 2024 • 23min
The rise, fall and (maybe) rise again of the Newfoundland cod fisheries
Award-winning investigative journalist Jenn Thornhill Verma discusses the impact of the 1992 cod moratorium in Newfoundland, the recent reopening of the northern cod fishery, concerns about sustainability, and the economic implications for the province. The decision to lift the ban and its potential effects on indigenous communities and the fishing industry are also explored, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for the future of Newfoundland's fisheries.

Jul 14, 2024 • 28min
What do we lose when our malls disappear?
Exploring the disappearance of malls as online shopping rises, the value of aimless browsing, and the nostalgic appeal of physical stores. Reflecting on the communal aspect of shopping, the sensory experience of tangible items, and the enriching benefits of unplugging from technology.

Jul 12, 2024 • 19min
Will Justin Trudeau take his own 'walk in the snow'?
Exploring the parallels between Trudeau and his father's political decisions, aftermath of a challenging by-election loss, potential leadership change in the Liberal Party, similarities with President Biden's situation, and speculation on Trudeau's next steps.

Jul 11, 2024 • 24min
Is America on the brink of political collapse? Should Biden bow out?
Exploring the looming threat of political collapse in America and its global repercussions. Analyzing challenges to democracy, signs of decline, and potential impacts on Canadian relations. Discussing the possibility of Joe Biden stepping down in the presidential race for Kamala Harris.

Jul 10, 2024 • 24min
Alice Munro's tarnished legacy and the evolution of MeToo
The podcast delves into the shocking revelation of Alice Munro's complicity in ignoring her daughter's sexual abuse. It also discusses society's response to victims sharing their stories, challenges of reporting on sexual violence, and navigating the complexity of separating art from the artist. The episode reflects on accountability in the Canadian literary community amid the MeToo era.

Jul 9, 2024 • 24min
An LCBO strike, and Ontario's long, strange history of booze policy
Ontario's historic booze policies clash with government plans to expand liquor sales to corner stores, sparking a strike. Premier Ford triggers debate on convenience in alcohol retail. LCBO workers rally against potential job losses as the province navigates through a long-standing battle over drink regulations.

Jul 8, 2024 • 20min
How Canada's asylum system completely collapsed
From a welcoming approach to refugees to asylum seekers now camped out on the streets, this podcast explores Canada's asylum system collapse. It discusses the challenges of overcrowding, delays in document processing, and the struggles faced by asylum seekers. Jordan Michael Smith shares insights on the issue, highlighting the stark contrast from Canada's past reputation for refugee acceptance.

Jul 7, 2024 • 23min
Is screen time still bad for kids?
The podcast discusses how algorithms are being used as weapons to hack at social and political ties. Guest speaker Renee DiResta from Stanford Internet Observatory sheds light on the misuse of technology in current information technologies. The episode explores the potential peace we can find amidst this warfare.

Jul 5, 2024 • 20min
Inside the fight to save the Ontario Science Centre
The podcast discusses the sudden closure of the Ontario Science Centre due to a dangerous roof, sparking debates on potential relocation and offers for repair. It delves into the historical significance of the Science Centre, government responses, and uncertainties surrounding its future location.

Jul 4, 2024 • 20min
Will the UK turn left while France swerves hard to the right?
The podcast explores the potential political shifts in the UK and France, with the UK likely to move left and France potentially turning right. It discusses the impact of Brexit on the UK economy and immigration, as well as the rise of the far-right National Rally party in French politics. The episode questions whether these changes signal a broader trend of anti-incumbent sentiment in democracies worldwide.


