

The Big Story
Frequency Podcast Network
An in-depth look at the issues, culture and personalities shaping Canada today.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 16, 2024 • 19min
Sixth year anniversary: The Big Story’s First Episode
Maclean's Ottawa bureau chief, John Geddes, discusses how the Liberals fulfilled their promise of legalizing marijuana in Canada. The podcast reflects on Canada's journey towards legalization, challenges faced by provinces, implications on US relations, and memories of acquiring marijuana in small towns.

Jun 15, 2024 • 28min
Buy new clothes?! In This Economy?!
Kelly Drennan, Founder of Fashion Takes Action, discusses the environmental and social impact of clothing production, challenges in the fashion industry, and the importance of sustainable practices. The podcast explores mindful clothing consumption, promotes sustainability, and offers advice on affording sustainable clothing.

Jun 14, 2024 • 22min
How Google got its AI answers so wrong
Google's AI Overview had some major mishaps, like suggesting urine to pass kidney stones. Max Reed discusses the challenges of AI algorithms and the evolving role of AI in the tech industry. Competition with alternative search engines raises questions about Google's accuracy and market dominance.

Jun 13, 2024 • 25min
National security, foreign interference and naming 'traitors'
A bombshell report revealed Canadian parliamentarians working with foreign agents to interfere in politics, sparking debate on naming 'traitors'. Guest Stephanie Carvin discusses security clearance, intelligence gathering, and protecting Canada's interests. The podcast delves into foreign interference in elections, importance of security clearance, government response, and monitoring national security developments.

Jun 12, 2024 • 22min
What exactly is "Canadian content" in 2024?
Discusses the CRTC's tax on streaming services to boost Canadian content. Bill C-11's impact on funding and who pays the tax. Interview with Michael Geist on the topic. Concerns about rising Netflix prices for consumers.

Jun 11, 2024 • 25min
How does the war in Gaza end?
The podcast discusses the recent rescue operation in Gaza, the challenges of achieving a ceasefire, and the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict. It explores ceasefire negotiations, political resignations in Israel, regional dynamics, legal interventions, and the impact on US politics.

Jun 10, 2024 • 22min
Is Alberta ready for a disastrous drought?
Exploring the historic drought in Alberta, signs pointing towards a prolonged drought, government's rethink on water management. Impact of current drought on agriculture and water resources. Managing water usage during drought, challenges of climate change effects.

Jun 9, 2024 • 27min
Welcome to the era of "tip creep"
Exploring the evolution of tipping culture in a cashless society, where tip prompts have expanded beyond traditional services. The podcast discusses the impact on workers caught in the middle and the confusion surrounding when and how much to tip. Insights are shared on navigating tipping etiquette, understanding 'tip creep,' and the complexities of tipping dynamics in upscale restaurants.

Jun 8, 2024 • 33min
Pre-nups?! In This Economy?!
Family lawyer Georgina Carson discusses the importance of prenuptial agreements for all couples, not just the wealthy. She emphasizes transparency in sharing financial details to avoid complications, the importance of full financial disclosure in agreements, and advice on combining finances and legal planning for a strong partnership.

Jun 7, 2024 • 26min
Could a Canadian breakthrough lead to an ALS cure?
Discover the groundbreaking ALS research by Western University, offering hope for a cure. Learn about the new protein RGNF that shows promise in halting motor neuron death. Explore the emotional toll of ALS on patients and caregivers, and the challenges in developing effective treatments. Dr. Michael Strong shares insights on the impact of ALS and the advancements in managing symptoms.


