The Sunday Magazine

Host Piya Chattopadhyay speaks with The Hub's Alberta bureau chief Falice Chin, Calgary-based CBC News journalist Jason Markusoff and The Logic's Ottawa correspondent Laura Osman about Ottawa's energy deal with Alberta, psychologist Robert Coplan explores the virtues of being alone, former Finnish prime minister Sanna Marin reflects on the challenges she faced in office, and forester Peter Kuitenbrouwer traces how maple syrup became a cornerstone of Canadian identity, independence and pride.

Join renowned nonfiction author Bill Bryson as he shares insights from his updated classic, exploring the wonders of science. He discusses the accidental discovery of cosmic microwave background radiation and highlights surprising developments like new moon finds and ancient human relatives. Bryson emphasizes the importance of curiosity and humility in understanding science, especially amid skepticism. He warns against superficiality in the age of the internet and urges listeners to embrace the marvels of life, even in challenging times.

In this lively discussion, Tony Keller, a Globe and Mail columnist, dives into Canada's shifting immigration debates sparked by a post-pandemic surge. Best-selling author Bill Bryson shares his insights on making science accessible, especially during a time of skepticism. Dennis Molinaro, a former national security analyst, sheds light on the complex history of Canada-China relations and the implications of foreign interference. Comedian Charles Demers humorously explores unique Canadianisms, from butter chicken to the melancholic call of loons, celebrating our quirky national identity.

Do you ever peer into your pet's face and wonder... what's going on in there? Jay Ingram has been wondering, too. The science writer and broadcaster joins David Common to discuss his new book, The Science of Pets, and delve into what scientific research says about the bond between humans and non-human animals, the ways we try to understand our fellow creatures, and how pets and their ilk have reshaped humanity in ways great and small.

Guest Host David Common speaks to The Toronto Star's Susan Delacourt and Rob Russo from The Economist about the week in politics, science writer and broadcaster Jay Ingram delves into the bond between humans and non-human animals, the CBC's John Chipman considers whether double-crested cormorants should be purged or preserved in our Sunday Documentary, The Cormorant Conundrum, and essayist and travel writer Pico Iyer explains what solitude can teach us about how to live, love and lose.Discover more at https://www.cbc.ca/sunday

In summer of 2022, Salman Rushdie came face to face with death. The Booker Prize-winning author was stabbed multiple times, while on stage, about to give a lecture. He survived, but suffered life-altering injuries. Rushdie has since returned to writing, including his new story collection The Eleventh Hour, which reflects on mortality. He joins Piya Chattopadhyay to talk about confronting his own fragility, finding humour in survival, and why ideas often outlive the people who imagine them.

Katharine Hayhoe, a climate scientist, delves into climate progress and public engagement ahead of COP30, urging a stronger connection to everyday issues. Mark Joseph Stern analyzes the U.S. Supreme Court's tariff hearing, highlighting political motives. Historian Allan Levine recounts how Canadian business leaders transformed war industries during WWII. Salman Rushdie reflects on mortality in his new work, blending humor and love. Rick Westhead addresses serious concerns in hockey culture, advocating for accountability and reform.

In our monthly challenge That's Puzzling!, Piya Chattopadhyay competes against one familiar voice and one clever listener in a battle of brain games devised by puzzle master Peter Brown. Playing this week are comedian and actor Andrew Phung, and Toronto listener Simon Eisner.

Host Piya Chattopadhyay speaks with fans following the Toronto Blue Jays' World Series run and unpacks its significance with The Athletic's Dan Robson, The Toronto Star's Susan Delacourt and Rob Russo from The Economist break down Prime Minister Mark Carney's balancing act on the budget and trade talks, The New York Times' White House and national security correspondent David Sanger reflects on Donald Trump's impact one year since winning re-election, and our monthly challenge That’s Puzzling! returns with special guest Andrew Phung.Discover more at https://cbc.ca/Sunday

In the weeks leading up to former U.S. President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out of his re-election campaign, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said she felt trapped between her loyalty and "her truth". Jean-Pierre joins Piya Chattopadhyay to discuss why she felt betrayed by fellow Democrats in the final days of the Biden administration and her reasons for ending her membership with the party and becoming an independent.