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 4, 2025 • 23min
Are AI toys safe for your kids?
Arwa Madhavi, a journalist known for her work on the impact of AI toys, and Cara Brisson-Boivin, Director of Research at MediaSmarts, dive into the world of interactive AI toys for kids. They discuss alarming findings about dangerous conversations some toys can initiate. Arwa shares her family's experience with an AI toy named Grimm, highlighting issues like inappropriate responses and privacy concerns. Cara emphasizes the importance of parental guidance and how these toys dangerously blur the lines of imaginative play versus AI-driven interactions.
Dec 4, 2025 • 20min
How sustainable is the Buy Canadian movement?
In this discussion, Julie Brown, co-founder of Province of Canada, reveals how her focus on local manufacturing nearly doubled her sales. Josephine Au, owner of Emery, shares her challenges with U.S. tariffs and how local support bolstered her brand. Melise Panetta, a marketing lecturer, analyzes the attitude-behavior gap, showing that while Canadians favor buying local, financial pressures complicate follow-through. The conversation highlights the impact of consumer choices on local economies and the persistent challenges faced by small businesses.
Dec 3, 2025 • 9min
Grist for the mill…
Alison Dempster, a CBC reporter and producer from Calgary, dives into the construction of a new flour mill in Red Deer County. She highlights its impressive capacity of 750 metric tons per day and discusses the strategic choice of location due to proximity to farmers and market growth. Conversations on food security reveal the mill’s potential role amid trade uncertainties. Farmer Jim Wood shares local market opportunities, while entrepreneur Arlene Dickinson calls for a push in agri-food processing to bolster Canadian exports. The future looks promising!
Dec 3, 2025 • 16min
What 1,000 steel layoffs mean for Sault Ste. Marie
In this discussion, Bill Slater, the president of United Steelworkers Local 2724, shares the anguish and fears of workers facing 1,000 layoffs at Algoma Steel. He highlights the urgent need for retraining programs as workers worry about their families. Mayor Matthew Shoemaker explains the broader economic impact on Sault Ste. Marie, emphasizing the struggle of local businesses to cope with the loss of jobs. The conversation raises critical questions about government support and the need for strategies that prioritize worker protection.
10 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 20min
Cheaper weight loss drugs “gamechanger” for Canadians
Dr. Sanjeev Sockalingam, a leading expert on obesity and GLP-1 medications, joins Paul Leinwand, a strategy consultant focused on how these drugs impact consumer behavior. They discuss the upcoming arrival of generic GLP-1s in Canada, which could drastically reduce costs and reshape how Canadians approach their health and spending. The conversation highlights shifts in consumer habits, including changes in grocery purchases and even dating, while addressing the stigma surrounding obesity treatments and the societal implications of these medications.
Dec 3, 2025 • 25min
Scott Galloway’s operating manual for being a man today
Scott Galloway, a podcaster, professor, and entrepreneur, tackles the modern struggles of young men in this insightful discussion. He highlights alarming trends in male loneliness and the negative impact of online rhetoric, emphasizing the need for connection. Galloway shares personal stories and data on suicide and homelessness, advocating for a more positive view of masculinity. He also proposes a practical mentoring plan focused on fitness, financial stability, and community engagement, urging empathy and emotional expression among future generations.
Dec 2, 2025 • 24min
What's driving Gen Z's return to Christianity?
Juliana Konrad, a producer and reporter based in Vancouver, explores the surprising rise of Gen Z's interest in Christianity. She shares her personal journey back to faith and interviews young attendees at Avant Life, describing vibrant, community-focused services. Sociologist Joel Thiessen discusses gender trends in religious commitment, while Bishop Jenny Anderson links the pandemic's loneliness to a renewed search for meaning in faith. The conversation tackles critical views of the church while celebrating the warmth and belonging many young people find in this spiritual return.
Dec 2, 2025 • 20min
Thousands of criminal cases dismissed because Jordan rule
Catherine Marshall is a lawyer representing victims in a lawsuit against the government regarding the Jordan ruling, which has led to thousands of criminal cases being dismissed. She discusses the emotional toll on survivors and advocates for suspending timelines for serious cases like sexual assault. Daniel Brown, a criminal defense lawyer, provides insights into the Jordan timelines, explaining why they were implemented and suggesting practical solutions to reduce delays. Both guests highlight the urgent need for reform to balance victims' rights with the integrity of the justice system.
12 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 20min
Why are more kids missing school?
Tara Carman, a senior reporter with CBC’s investigative unit, shares exclusive data revealing a troubling rise in student absenteeism in Canada. Natasha McBrary, a researcher at the University of Ottawa, discusses the complex causes, including mental health and support gaps for diverse learning needs. Psychologist David Smith highlights the peak bullying rates in middle school and its impact on attendance. Together, they explore the challenging landscape where high absenteeism links to both social and educational issues, emphasizing the need for better support systems.
Dec 1, 2025 • 21min
If flying is miserable, who's to blame?
Travel writer Robin Esrock discusses how stress and cramped conditions influence passenger behavior, diving into modern misbehaviors on flights. Former flight attendant Susan Barnes reminisces about the classy service of the 60s and 70s, revealing how air travel has devolved since the 'golden age.' Together, they explore what led to the decline of enjoyable flying and suggest improvements like better communication and more human-centered airports. Robin emphasizes the privilege of modern travel, urging listeners to appreciate it despite the challenges.
