Front Burner

This podcast explores the controversy surrounding Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's proposed policies affecting trans youth, including bans on surgery and restrictions on hormone treatment. It looks at the impact on trans youth, ongoing debate on gender affirming treatment, fears and concerns of trans teens, and the politics behind these policies.

Investigative journalist Marisa Taylor joins to discuss Elon Musk's brain implant company, Neuralink. Topics include the goals of Neuralink, the brain implant procedure and associated risks, animal trials and controversy, and the pressure and perceptions of Neuralink.

Explore why Ukrainian men are risking illegal border crossings to escape the war in Ukraine. Briar Stewart investigates the reasons behind their journeys and the efforts to stop them. Discover discussion groups on Telegram offering services to help men escape, and the pressures faced by those who stay to fight.

Una Chaplin, Charlie Chaplin's granddaughter, hosts Hollywood Exiles, delving into the Hollywood blacklist and its impact on artists. The podcast explores Charlie Chaplin's rise to fame from impoverished London, the toll of political beliefs on families, and the experiences of Hollywood exiles under scrutiny.

Former Canadian world junior hockey players face sex assault charges in a troubling story. Katie Strang, a senior investigative writer with The Athletic, discusses the charges and potential changes in hockey since the scandal. The podcast explores the ongoing sex assault case, reactions from the hockey community, and the need for positive change in hockey culture.

Martha Friendly discusses the challenges facing affordable daycare in Canada, including staffing shortages and waitlists. The funding structure of the $10 a day program and potential closures of YMCA centers are also explored. The podcast examines the difficulties in accessing affordable childcare services and strategies for making early childhood education roles more enticing. Criticism and potential concerns surrounding the program in Alberta are discussed, highlighting the need for collaboration between federal and provincial authorities.

Investigative journalist Drew Anderson discusses a new study that reveals the underestimated air pollution from Alberta's oilsands, questioning the health and environmental consequences. There are concerns about under-reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and the lack of regulation in the oil and gas industry. The study highlights the knowledge gap surrounding oil production effects.

A game called Palworld, which is often described as 'Pokémon with guns', has gained immense popularity and sparked accusations of plagiarism. The podcast explores the unique gameplay mechanics, the inclusion of guns reflecting American culture, and the game's unprecedented success compared to Pokémon. Additionally, it discusses the criticism of Pokémon, Pocketfer's response to plagiarism accusations, and Nintendo's response to a fan-made mod.

Catharine Tunney, CBC parliamentary reporter, discusses Canada's public inquiry into foreign electoral interference, addressing the challenges of participation, transparency, and sharing findings. The podcast explores the goals and scope of the inquiry, highlighting past elections and countries involved. It also delves into testimonies, challenges, frustrations, and the importance of a public inquiry for cross-examinations and a better understanding of what occurred.

Investigation into a devastating human smuggling case at the US-Canadian border, focusing on the tragic deaths of the Patel family. The motivations behind their decision to migrate and the challenges faced by immigrants. Uncovering the suspects involved in the smuggling network and the difficulty of gathering evidence for legal action.