The Big Story

Dr. Iris Gorfinkel, a Toronto family physician and public health researcher, explains why alcohol ranks as Canada’s most harmful substance. She discusses how harms were measured, links between alcohol and social costs like violence and court strain, confusion around drinking guidelines, and policy choices such as availability and warning labels. Short, urgent, and policy-focused conversation.

A fast roundup of international tensions after Iran’s new supreme leader issues a defiant message. Coverage of Mark Carney’s overseas stops to watch NATO exercises and discuss Arctic security. Big ticket demand and resale risks around the FIFA World Cup. Federal funding to bolster synagogue security and a survey linking Alberta separatism to business confidence. A preview of a conversation on vaccine hesitancy.

Dr. Elisabeth Marnik, an immunologist who grew up unvaccinated, shares how personal history and science shaped her work. She discusses confronting childhood beliefs, why empathy beats shame in vaccine conversations, tailoring public health messages, and distinguishing hesitant parents from committed activists. Short, human stories drive her approach.

John Curtin, University of Toronto economist and energy commentator. He breaks down how the Iran conflict can push Canadian costs up and why Canada’s energy exports matter. He also explains how domestic supply and electrification cushion price shocks. Plus a look at maritime attacks and insurance risks affecting global shipping.

John Kirton, political science professor and director of the G7 Research Group, explains global ripple effects from the Iran conflict. He breaks down how Strait of Hormuz disruptions moved oil markets. He discusses Canada's exposure to price shocks, debates boosting domestic oil production, and outlines risks of wider escalation involving major powers.

Mixed messages from U.S. leaders about conflict with Iran and tense developments around timing and intensity. Shots rang out at the U.S. consulate in Toronto, causing damage but no injuries. Australia granted visas to Iranian women soccer players after anthem-related backlash. Students in Havana staged a rare protest over power and internet issues. TikTok Canada cleared to keep operating under new safety conditions.

Amarnath Amarasingam, an associate professor at Queen's who studies transnational repression and diaspora politics. He discusses intelligence roles and warnings about threats to diaspora communities. He explores the tension between expanding trade with India and managing security concerns. He traces historical roots of Canada–India strains and weighs whether engagement can coexist with protecting rights and safety.

Alex Vatanka, senior fellow at the Middle East Institute, provides expert analysis on Iran and regional geopolitics. He unpacks the appointment of the new supreme leader and how hardliners consolidated power. He also discusses regional military escalation, impacts on oil prices, and what limited Canadian involvement might look like.

Alexander Salt, a postdoctoral fellow and foreign policy analyst, unpacks Canada’s strategic balancing with the U.S. He outlines what limited military roles might look like, discusses defence readiness and investment priorities, and explores how NATO ties and regional spillover could pull Canada into wider conflict. Short, clear takes on diplomatic messaging and likely government actions.

Joyce Arthur, longtime abortion rights activist and founder of the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada, and Frederique Chabot, Director of Health Promotion at Action Canada, discuss Canadian abortion policy, decriminalization versus legislation, and access barriers. They cover inequities for rural, low-income, Indigenous and trans communities, cross-border effects from U.S. restrictions, and progress like mifepristone and telemedicine.