The Current
CBC
Three stories to expand your worldview, delivered daily. Matt Galloway cuts through a sea of choice to bring you stories that transcend the news cycle. Conversations with big thinkers, household names, and people living the news. An antidote to algorithms that cater to what you already know — and a meeting place for diverse perspectives. In its 20 years, the Current has become a go-to place for stories that shape and entertain us. Released daily, Monday to Friday.The Current is produced in Toronto, Ontario, Canada — and has recently recorded live shows about the Canadian election in Surrey and Burnaby BC. And shows to come in Oshawa and the 905, Red Deer, Alberta, Quebec City and Halifax.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 21, 2026 • 13min
Rassi Nashalik is still a rock star in the north
Rassi Nashalik, a pioneering Inuk broadcaster and elder known for hosting the first Inuktitut CBC-TV news program, discusses her recent honor as a member of the Order of Canada. She shares her reflections on this recognition, particularly the significance of receiving it from fellow Indigenous leader Mary Simon. Rassi emphasizes the vital role of Igalaaq in informing viewers in their language and the community's commitment to preserving Inuit culture. She also highlights the younger generation's eagerness to reclaim their heritage and the importance of integrating traditional values into governance.
Jan 21, 2026 • 37min
Lisa Banfield tells her story of surviving violent abuse, and Canada's worst mass shooting
Lisa Banfield, a survivor of prolonged intimate partner violence and the author of a memoir detailing her life with Canada's deadliest mass shooter, opens up about her harrowing experiences. She reveals the chilling dynamics of control and isolation in her relationship with Gabriel Wortman, and candidly discusses the escalation to physical violence she endured. Lisa also confronts the backlash from victims' families regarding her decision to share her story, while advocating for systemic changes in how domestic violence is addressed and encouraging others to seek help.
Jan 21, 2026 • 8min
Running 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days
Marcel Kasimovich, an endurance runner and the only Canadian in the 7-7 World Marathon Challenge, shares his thrilling ambitions of running seven marathons in seven days across diverse climates. He humorously reflects on his midlife crisis that fueled this extreme goal. Marcel recounts memories from his North Pole marathon and discusses rigorous training and recovery strategies. He also reveals the solitude he cherishes while running, the joy of pushing limits, and visualizing his epic journey from Antarctica to Miami.
Jan 20, 2026 • 20min
Ukrainians who fled war, living in limbo
Oleh Zadoretskyy, a Ukrainian father who arrived in Halifax with his family after the invasion, shares his challenges of living on temporary permits. Elizabeth Wozniak, an immigration lawyer, discusses the complex pathways and bureaucratic obstacles many Ukrainians face while seeking permanent residency. They reveal the emotional toll of living in limbo, the mismatch between work permits and housing options, and potential solutions for a more streamlined immigration process. Both express hope for a future where families can find safety and stability.
Jan 20, 2026 • 12min
What will the China-Canada trade deal mean for Atlantic Canadians?
In this engaging discussion, Stuart Lamont, Managing Director of Tangier Lobster Company, and Chris Viscato, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance, explore the recent lifting of Chinese tariffs on Canadian seafood. They reveal how this relief can rejuvenate the struggling lobster export market and share insights on the critical need for diversification in trade partnerships. Both guests highlight the historical importance of the Chinese market and discuss ongoing advocacy efforts for the seafood industry, underscoring the potential economic impacts on Atlantic Canadian communities.
Jan 20, 2026 • 10min
Aquakultre explores his own roots on new album 1783
Lance Sampson, known as Aquakultre, is a Nova Scotia musician exploring his family's history and the legacy of Black Nova Scotians in his album 1783. He discusses how fatherhood sparked his journey into his ancestry and the significance of 1783, marking the arrival of Black Loyalists. Highlighting his great-grandfather's wrongful execution, he emphasizes the need for community action and emotional expression among Black men. Sampson also presents 'Scotia Born' as a proud anthem, celebrating African Nova Scotian culture and identity.
Jan 20, 2026 • 25min
CBC Documentary, Not On My Watch
Join John Chipman, CBC producer and documentary storyteller, as he dives into the harrowing journey of Nora Scott, who battled anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. Nora, alongside family members Emily and Dot, shares the emotional rollercoaster of misdiagnoses and desperate hospital stays. Medical experts Dr. Chris Hahn and Dr. Jada Johnson shed light on the complexities of autoimmune encephalitis and the vital importance of accurate diagnosis. Discover how advocacy and persistence ultimately led to Nora’s recovery and a deeper understanding of this rare condition.
Jan 19, 2026 • 19min
Can NATO survive Trump's threats against Greenland?
Douglas Lute, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General and former NATO ambassador, discusses the impact of Trump’s Greenland threats on NATO's unity. Juana Langescu, former NATO spokesperson, details a coordinated European response and military exercises aimed at Arctic security. Stephen Seidman, director of the Canadian Defence and Security Network, analyzes Canada’s cautious political stance and vulnerability to U.S. whims. Together, they explore how this crisis tests NATO’s credibility and calls for increased European and Canadian defense responsibilities.
Jan 19, 2026 • 22min
Why Attawapiskat will always be home for Adrian Sutherland
In this conversation, Adrian Sutherland, a talented Cree musician and author from Attawapiskat First Nation, shares why he chooses to stay in his community despite its challenges. He talks about the deep connection to his ancestry and the land, the symbolism of daily water collection, and the inequities faced by Indigenous communities. Reflecting on his journey of healing through music and building a home, Adrian emphasizes the importance of understanding the true meaning of home and encouraging reconciliation in Canada.
Jan 19, 2026 • 24min
Can Co-op housing help Canada's housing crisis?
In this discussion, Tom Clement, Executive Director of the Cooperative Housing Federation of Toronto, and Tom Armstrong, CEO of the Federation of British Columbia, explore the rising significance of co-op housing in Canada. They highlight the groundbreaking Kennedy Green project in Toronto, which will provide over 600 new units amid overwhelming demand. Armstrong emphasizes co-ops' affordability, community benefits, and their vital role in addressing the housing crisis, advocating for sustained investment and innovation to ensure lasting housing solutions.
