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 13, 2026 • 20min
What's next for Iran?
Fatima Shams, an exiled Iranian scholar and feminist activist, shares firsthand accounts of the heartbreaking silence caused by a brutal crackdown on protests in Iran. She describes this surge in unrest as an 'explosion' triggered by systemic collapse, urging the international community for decisive action. Cameron Bokhari, a strategic forecaster, analyses the U.S.'s potential responses, highlighting the risks of military intervention and the emerging vulnerabilities of the Iranian regime. Will this unrest signal the beginning of a significant change?
Jan 13, 2026 • 25min
Margaret MacMillan on the shifting international order
Mark Medley, a journalist and author from the Globe and Mail, explores the theme of pursuing seemingly impossible goals in his writing. He discusses the intriguing 'building cathedrals' metaphor, illustrating why people dedicate themselves to long-term projects without immediate payoff. Medley shares insights on the dreamers drawn to Arizona, the fascinating search for extraterrestrial life, and how patience can lead to personal growth. His reflections on the Future Library project highlight a commitment to future generations, reinforcing the notion that hope is essential for action.
Jan 13, 2026 • 20min
What drives people to pursue impossible goals
Mark Medley, a journalist at the Globe and Mail and author of 'Live to See the Day,' dives into the fascinating world of those who chase impossible goals. He explores why individuals, like perennial candidate Liz White, are drawn to relentless pursuits. Unpacking the 'cathedral analogy,' he discusses how some lay foundations for future generations without seeing the results. Medley shares stories from SETI and highlights the joy of embracing uncertainty, linking optimism to hope for the future and long-term thinking that inspires stewardship for all.
Jan 12, 2026 • 19min
Mr Carney goes to Beijing
Rosemary Barton, CBC's chief political correspondent, teams up with Stephanie Levitt, a senior reporter at the Globe and Mail, to discuss significant political currents as Canada approaches warmer ties with China. They analyze Mark Carney's upcoming visit, emphasizing his market-driven diplomacy and the delicate balance between U.S. relations and domestic pressures. The duo also tackles U.S. actions in Venezuela, questioning the implications for Canada's position in a shifting geopolitical landscape, and the political stakes for the Conservative Party.
Jan 12, 2026 • 21min
Why is it so hard to stick to a New Year's resolution?
Caitlin Woolley, a marketing professor at Cornell specializing in motivation science, and Katie Milkman, a behavioral scientist at Wharton, dive into the challenges of sticking to New Year’s resolutions. They explore the surprising benefits of the 'fresh start effect' and how specific dates can boost motivation. Woolley shares insights on how enjoyment and engagement are key to long-term success, while Milkman introduces 'temptation bundling' to make achieving goals more fun. Together, they provide practical tips on setting achievable and measurable resolutions.
Jan 12, 2026 • 25min
Learning in secret: An Afghan teacher’s quiet resistance
Hasrat Wadiz, an Afghan educator and former diplomat now in Canada, shares his inspiring journey of founding Daricha Schools, underground classrooms for girls in Afghanistan. He discusses the risks of teaching under Taliban rule and emphasizes the importance of community support in education. Wadiz highlights how educating girls can prevent radicalization and create future leaders. His hope for societal change drives him as he coordinates these clandestine efforts, fostering a brighter future despite the challenges.
Jan 9, 2026 • 12min
Should school boards be a thing of the past?
Sachin Maharaj, an Assistant Professor at the University of Ottawa specializing in educational governance, delves into the contentious debate surrounding the potential elimination of school boards in Ontario. He discusses the vital roles that trustees play in local advocacy and representation. Maharaj highlights how political tensions drive provinces to reconsider boards while emphasizing that audits reveal funding issues rather than mismanagement. He argues for the importance of democratic governance in education, warning that parents could lose crucial platforms for voicing their concerns if boards are dismantled.
Jan 9, 2026 • 22min
Size matters. Meet the owners of some of Canada's micro restaurants and bars
Doug Todd, owner of Standing Room Only, shares insights from Canada's smallest bar, highlighting its social vibe and forced interactions that bring patrons closer. Joel Gray talks about his farmhouse micro-restaurant, Down Home, where local sourcing and storytelling create intimate dining experiences. Eva Chin discusses Yann Dining Room's unique concept inspired by Hong Kong supper clubs, emphasizing personal connections with diners. All three guests advocate for the joy and viability of small-scale hospitality, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace intimacy over size.
Jan 9, 2026 • 20min
Trump wants to take Greenland by sale or by force. Can he?
Tilly Martinusen, a former Greenlandic parliament member, shares her insights on the strong public backlash against U.S. interest in buying Greenland, highlighting cultural pride and collective resistance. Lynn Mortenska, a global security specialist, discusses the implications of Trump's ambitions and stresses Greenland's legal right to self-determination. Both guests examine the broader political and military pressures on Denmark and Greenland, underscoring the importance of autonomy over monetary offers and the potential fallout of any forced takeover.
Jan 9, 2026 • 12min
Why grip strength matters more than you think
Alyssa Ages, a health and fitness journalist and author of "Secrets of Giants," dives deep into the significance of grip strength. She reveals how grip strength is linked to longevity and what it truly reflects about our overall health. Alyssa discusses a pivotal study connecting decreased grip to higher cardiovascular risks. She also shares everyday exercises to enhance grip strength, regardless of age, highlighting its cognitive benefits. With simple training tips, she reassures listeners that it's never too late to start improving their strength.
