

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

Jun 6, 2024 • 23min
At long last, an interest rate cut. What comes next?
Senior economist David discusses the recent interest rate cut by the Bank of Canada and its implications for Canadians managing debt. The podcast explores the impact of rising interest rates on the housing market, factors influencing the Bank of Canada's decisions on interest rates, effects of the rate cut on mortgages and businesses, and the complexities of interest rates on various sectors of the economy.

Jun 5, 2024 • 20min
Everything you need to know about heat pumps
Matt Simon, a senior staff writer at WIRED, discusses the potential of heat pumps in revolutionizing home heating and reducing carbon emissions. Topics include debunking myths about heat pumps in cold weather, advancements in technology, and challenges in transitioning to cleaner energy solutions.

Jun 4, 2024 • 19min
Does Canada fine industrial polluters enough to make a difference?
PhD student Ben Collison discusses the complexities of fining industrial polluters in Canada, exploring ways to hold them accountable. Topics include recent fines for water pollution, the impact of fines on businesses, enhancing penalties for wealthy companies, and the importance of public involvement in enforcing environmental compliance.

Jun 3, 2024 • 19min
Could B.C. get a conservative government?
The podcast delves into the sudden rise of the Conservative Party in BC, analyzing its historical context and current poll trends. It explores the conservative surge and contrasts BC Conservatives with BC Liberals, discussing candidate controversies and key factors influencing potential leadership. Will this trend lead to a Conservative government in the province?

Jun 2, 2024 • 24min
The ignoble end of "the world's worst McDonald's"
The podcast explores the infamous reputation of a McDonald's in Ottawa, dubbed as the worst in the world, due to violence, drug use, and viral incidents. It delves into the dynamics of public space, societal challenges in downtown areas, and the closure of the notorious restaurant.

Jun 1, 2024 • 23min
Should you become a landlord so you can afford a home?
Thinking about becoming a landlord to afford a home? Explore the misconceptions and motivations behind property investments. Learn about the challenges of managing renovations, understanding laws, and the transitioning from a single property to a property management business. Discover the risks, cash flow importance, and the necessity of effective property management in the world of landlording.

May 31, 2024 • 30min
First Person: A disabled person living in the age of MAiD
Exploring the perspective of disabled writer Gabrielle Peters on MAiD, challenges faced by disabled individuals in healthcare, societal pressures, and advocacy for end-of-life rights in Canada.

May 30, 2024 • 25min
Explaining the competition bureau's investigation of Loblaws and Sobeys
A look into the Competition Bureau's investigation of major grocery chains for unfair lease agreement controls, potential anti-competitive practices, and their impact on Canada's grocery industry. Features insights from an expert on corporate accountability and business regulation.

May 29, 2024 • 15min
Ticketmaster vs. the US Department of Justice
An exploration of the lawsuit filed against Ticketmaster and Live Nation by the US Department of Justice for alleged monopolistic practices in the live music industry. The episode discusses the impact on concert prices and fees, the dynamics of the merger between Ticketmaster and Live Nation, and the potential implications of breaking up Live Nation on event availability and ticket competition.

May 28, 2024 • 20min
The rise and fall of Canada's Crypto King
Former 'Crypto King' Aiden Pleterski faces fraud charges and accusations of lavish living on investors' money. Discusses the alleged fraud, tangled investor lawsuits, and how a high schooler became a crypto sensation. Unveils the bizarre story of luxury cars, investor suspicions, and legal battles.


