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
Dec 26, 2025 • 36min
Margaret Atwood tells her own story
Renowned Canadian author Margaret Atwood, known for her iconic work The Handmaid's Tale, engages in a captivating discussion about her new memoir, Book of Lives. She shares her childhood experiences in both the woods and the city, revealing how they shaped her creativity. Atwood reflects on societal changes and real-life inspirations behind her characters, as well as the striking relevance of The Handmaid's Tale in today's political climate. Plus, an impromptu palm reading adds a whimsical touch to this insightful conversation.
Dec 24, 2025 • 20min
Jimmy Darts on the power of kindness
Jimmy Darts, a social media creator and author known for his inspiring kindness videos and significant fundraising efforts, shares his journey of spreading generosity. He reveals the hidden-ask approach that surprises strangers with acts of kindness, creating ripple effects of compassion. Jimmy recounts transformative stories, like helping Sebastian, and emphasizes that small acts can lead to monumental change. He also discusses the power of one-sided kindness and reflects on the importance of consent while filming, encouraging everyone to engage compassionately.
Dec 23, 2025 • 25min
Arundhati Roy: My mother and I were like two nuclear powers
Arundhati Roy, an acclaimed Indian author and activist, shares insights about her complex relationship with her mother, Mary, whose formidable spirit inspired much of her writing. Despite their turbulent connection, Roy reveals how Mary's strength and passion for justice shaped her perspectives. She discusses the impact of her mother’s achievements in education and gender rights and reflects on her own journey through grief, writing, and political activism, emphasizing the inseparable nature of literature and social responsibility.
Dec 23, 2025 • 23min
Would you become a living donor to a stranger?
In this engaging conversation, guests Stephanie Azzarello and Trisha Beard share an inspiring story of hope and generosity. Stephanie, an art history fellow, recounts her journey through severe liver illness and her desperate search for a living donor. Trisha, a compassionate nurse, answered Stephanie's call and overcame cross-border challenges to provide a portion of her liver. Their emotional connection blossoms post-surgery as they reflect on the power of kindness and the renewal of life, creating an unbreakable bond.
Dec 23, 2025 • 20min
Is there still hope for the climate?
Katharine Hayhoe, a renowned climate scientist and chief scientist for Nature United, joins Rick Smith, President of the Canadian Climate Institute, to discuss the state of the climate in 2025. They explore the dual crises of extreme weather and attacks on climate science, highlighting how vested interests threaten vital research. Despite challenges, they find optimism in global clean energy trends and technological progress. Smith underscores Canada’s need for a robust climate policy, advocating for low-carbon solutions amidst uncertainty.
Dec 22, 2025 • 37min
Susan Orlean: Why being curious gives you a richer life
Susan Orlean, a staff writer at The New Yorker and bestselling author, shares her journey of curiosity and storytelling. She discusses her transition from profiling others to exploring her own life in her memoir, Joyride. Orlean reveals the Senegalese metaphor that sees people as 'libraries' and describes her process of finding story ideas everywhere. She also reflects on her transformative piece about grocery stores and the emotional complexities behind public success and personal turmoil, encouraging listeners to embrace curiosity for a richer life.
Dec 22, 2025 • 14min
Rick Mercer stands up for Canada
Rick Mercer, the celebrated Newfoundland comedian and political satirist, shares his insights on the ever-changing landscape of Canadian politics. He reflects on his touring experience, discussing the impact of rapid news cycles on his material and why some Canadians have chosen to avoid the news for their mental health. Mercer humorously critiques political figures, including Pierre Poilievre and Justin Trudeau, while celebrating a newfound Canadian pride and the vibrant comedy scene across the country. His passion for home resonates throughout!
Dec 22, 2025 • 20min
Some Canadian snowbirds ditch US holiday plans
Wayne Smith, a tourism expert from the Ted Rogers School, discusses the 21% drop in Canadian travelers to the U.S. Charlie Burt, a seasoned snowbird, shares his choice of Mexico over Texas due to political and logistical concerns. Joan McAlpine-Stiles, who winters in Florida, notes fewer Canadian visitors and community reactions amid political tensions. They explore changing travel patterns, new popular destinations like Mexico and Portugal, and the potential long-term impact on tourism and local economies.
Dec 19, 2025 • 16min
Canada's soaring beef prices
Sylvain Charlebois, a noted food systems expert, and Greg Hawkwood, an Alberta rancher, dive into the reasons behind skyrocketing beef prices in Canada. Hawkwood shares the challenges posed by drought, leading to tough decisions about herd sizes. Charlebois elaborates on how combined factors like herd liquidation and slow recovery in cattle cycles contribute to price spikes. The discussion also touches on consumer behavior, the impact of beef on grocery inflation, and predictions for the future of beef prices, which may remain high until mid-2027.
Dec 19, 2025 • 23min
The Best Albums of 2025
Musicians Shad, an award-winning Canadian rapper known for his insightful commentary, and Talia Schlanger, a CBC broadcaster and musician, dive into their top album picks of 2025. They discuss the eclectic sounds of Kękę Trinata and the unique artistry of Rosalía's Lux. Talia highlights Sia Gray's innovative musical collage, while Shad praises the intimacy of The Weather Station’s Humanhood. They explore how live music shapes their perspectives and how their own artistry influences their listening habits.
