

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

Dec 29, 2023 • 28min
Staff Pick: Can humans hibernate their way to Mars?
Exploring the concept of human hibernation and its impact on space travel, including sustaining humans on long journeys. Challenges of sending humans to Mars, including weight, radiation exposure, and psychological impact. The potential methods and challenges of hibernating humans during space travel, including therapeutic hypothermia. Research into hibernation in animals and the neural protection it provides. NASA's interest in human hibernation and its implications for space travel and beyond.

Dec 28, 2023 • 26min
Staff Pick: The "parental rights" debate, and the fight over the notwithstanding clause
This podcast discusses the parental rights debate in Canada and the use of the notwithstanding clause to push through a divisive policy in Saskatchewan. The policy requires parental consent for transgender kids to use a different name or pronouns at school, potentially outing them in dangerous homes. The podcast explores the legal challenges, public backlash, and potential implications of using the notwithstanding clause, highlighting the complexities and impact on marginalized groups.

Dec 27, 2023 • 20min
Staff Pick: Why are some orcas suddenly attacking boats?
This podcast explores the recent surge in orcas attacking and sinking boats off the coast of Portugal and Spain. The speakers discuss the lack of understanding behind this behavior and theories including trauma and differences in their habitat. They also question humanity's desire to explain animal motives and highlight the concern if this behavior spreads. Science journalist Stephanie Pappas provides insights into the phenomenon.

Dec 22, 2023 • 19min
Good News: We're learning how to save the coral reefs
Learn about the alarming rate of coral loss worldwide with 50% lost in the last 60 to 70 years. Discover the breakthrough in cryopreserving coral larvae and the methods for growing them into adults. Explore the advancements in coral reef conservation and their implications for biodiversity preservation.

Dec 21, 2023 • 22min
Good News: You can fix your broken stuff
Learn about the emerging DIY repair movement that focuses on fixing instead of replacing products. Explore the right to repair movement and the challenges it faces. Discover tips and resources for repairing basic furniture and complex home appliances. Find out how to outsource repairs and breathe new life into sentimental clothes.

Dec 20, 2023 • 23min
Good News: We're finally finding new antibiotics
This podcast explores the urgent need for new antibiotics to combat antibiotic-resistant superbugs. It discusses the breakthrough in antibiotic development with Zolaf lotusen, a unique antibiotic that targets bacteria. The podcast also highlights the comedic perspective on Canadian politics and the development of Zola Flotasen. Additionally, it delves into the challenges and history of drug-resistant gonorrhea and the introduction of Azul, a promising new drug.

Dec 19, 2023 • 25min
Good News: Plovers in a dangerous time
Bird conservationist, Fatima Syed, shares the captivating love story of endangered plovers in Ontario beaches. Topics include the endangered status of plovers, cross-border conservation efforts, a transported bird nest, and the power of human efforts in protecting nature.

Dec 18, 2023 • 21min
Good News: The pandemic didn't make us meaner
Exploring the perception of increased unkindness during the pandemic, the podcast debunks this notion by presenting data that shows kindness still prevails. It discusses the purpose and impact of The World Happiness Report, the rise of pro-social acts during the pandemic, and the comedic perspective on Canadian politics and the impacts of acts of kindness. The hosts also touch on the challenge of balancing perception and responsibility in reporting the news.

Dec 16, 2023 • 38min
Avoiding Debt?! In This Economy?!
A money expert discusses the rising credit card debt and ways to avoid accumulating more debt. The podcast also explores strategies for overcoming credit card debt and different options for getting out of debt. The challenges of sticking to a long-term debt repayment plan in an unstable economy are discussed, emphasizing the need to exist within the system for now.

Dec 15, 2023 • 20min
How a Canadian prepares for a stint on the ISS
Canadian astronaut Josh Kutryk discusses his upcoming stint on the International Space Station in 2025. Topics include training for space missions, the unique features of the Starliner spacecraft, and mental preparations for life in space.


