The Big Story

In this conversation, Julian Somers, a clinical psychologist and distinguished professor at Simon Fraser University, dives into B.C.'s troubled safer supply drug policy. He discusses the new requirement for supervised consumption due to rampant misuse, highlighting the ongoing overdose crisis. Somers critically examines the effectiveness of the safer supply model and urges a reevaluation of accountability in government policies. He also emphasizes the need for demand-focused strategies that address the root causes of addiction and supports recovery-oriented approaches.

In this discussion, Lavagnon Ika, a Project Management Professor at the University of Ottawa, dives into Canada's ambitious high-speed rail project linking Toronto and Quebec City. He highlights Canada’s unique position as the only G-7 nation without such a line and the government’s recent $4 billion investment. Ika addresses the operational challenges posed by existing freight systems and compares this initiative to international efforts facing financial hurdles. He also explores how this project could transform connectivity and fuel economic growth, despite political and financial uncertainties.

Julie Petrera, a senior strategist at Edward Jones, shares vital insights on retirement savings and RRSP contributions. She discusses the importance of early investment and how psychological barriers can hinder savings. Julie highlights concerning trends among different demographics, particularly the decline in contributions from younger Canadians and gender disparities in retirement planning. She also explores alternative savings strategies, comparing RRSPs and TFSAs, emphasizing the need for professional guidance to enhance financial planning before the looming contribution deadline.

Marcus Kolga, a Russia and security expert, dives into Trump’s controversial shift regarding Ukraine and U.S. support. He discusses the cancelation of aid and the troubling peace talks with Russia that exclude Ukrainian voices. Kolga emphasizes the dangers of disinformation, noting Trump’s misleading portrayal of President Zelensky and the implications for democracy. The talk also covers Ukraine’s efforts to ramp up self-sufficiency in defense and the need for allied nations to strengthen their security amidst geopolitical tensions.

Dr. Ian Shulman, a psychologist specializing in anxiety and the fear of flying, shares crucial insights on confronting flying fears. He discusses how personal anxieties can amplify in the confined space of an airplane, despite aviation being statistically safer than driving. Dr. Shulman emphasizes the importance of communication and self-awareness in managing flight anxiety. He also explores how childhood experiences with trust impact adult responses during air travel, providing practical strategies for overcoming these fears.

John Graddick, an aviation expert from McGill University, sheds light on the worrying rise in air travel incidents, including a dramatic crash landing at Toronto's Pearson Airport. He discusses how advanced aviation technology and rigorous safety protocols make commercial flights remarkably safe despite recent events. The conversation dives into the crash investigation processes, including black box analysis and international cooperation. Graddick also emphasizes the critical role of global safety standards in maintaining confidence in air travel during these troubling times.

Elizabeth Buckner, an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto's Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, sheds light on a pressing crisis in Canada's post-secondary education. With slashed international student permits, many institutions are grappling with severe budget shortfalls, leading to program cuts and layoffs. Buckner discusses the adverse effects of recent immigration policy changes and the cycle of underfunding that threatens institutional viability. She emphasizes the urgent need for a sustainable funding model to protect educational excellence.

Juliet Santos, the mother of Patrick Santos, shares her ongoing quest for justice following her son's tragic unsolved murder in 2006. She recounts the emotional toll of loss and the desire for closure, highlighting Patrick’s dreams of becoming a police officer. The discussion delves into the mysterious circumstances of his death, including the chilling details of restraint and asphyxiation. Juliet's story sheds light on the challenges families face with cold cases and the hope that new evidence might one day bring resolution.

Retail analyst Bruce Winder dives into the surge of the 'buy Canadian' movement sparked by U.S. trade tensions. He discusses how rising tariffs have ignited a wave of consumer patriotism, reshaping shopping habits. Winder highlights innovative marketing strategies by retailers promoting Canadian goods and the challenges they face amid rising prices. Consumer preferences are shifting, with many choosing local products, and Winder explores the potential for Canadian entrepreneurs in this growing market.

Sylvain Charlebois, Director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University and an expert in agriculture policy, breaks down the complexities of Canada's supply management system. He explains how this decades-old policy regulates dairy production, influencing trade tensions with the U.S. and drawing criticism from Trump. The discussion highlights the challenges of pricing transparency, the evolution of dairy quotas, and the impact of tariffs. Charlebois also addresses the implications for Canadian farmers as they navigate these intricate regulations.