After a 19-week-long hiatus that saw alcohol arrive in convenience stores and an announcement to build a tunnel under the 401, the Ontario legislature returns with no shortage of issues to deal with. We take a look at what the Ford government has been up to, and the reaction it's stirred up across the province.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things like public transit, building codes, and snow removal are not always planned keeping in mind people with disabilities. So, what does an accessible city for all look like? Writer and disability organizer Emily Macrae has some suggestions, and they can be found in a new book of essays and interviews she's edited, called "Living Disability: Building Accessible Futures for Everybody".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

His colleagues described it as one of the "greatest single acts of bravery" they'd ever seen. In 2009, while deployed as part of an anti-explosives team in Kandahar, Bruno Guevremont became the only Canadian Armed Forces member to defuse a live suicide bomber. In episode two of Forgotten War, Guevremont describes the day that changed his life, the "cat-and-mouse game" between him and the Taliban during his second tour in Afghanistan, the difficulty of coming home, and how he healed from the psychological wounds that have been ignored throughout most of the history of war. This video was made in partnership with Canada Company. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you make lasting change in the world? According to Bhante Saranapala, a Buddhist Monk at the West End Buddhist Temple and Meditation Centre in Mississsauga, Ontario, it starts with one person's kindful acts toward another. And they pass it on. On a sunny fall day in Serena Gundy Park in north Toronto, he talks to Steve Paikin about his early life training to be a monk in Bhangledesh and Sri Lanka, his time in Canada, leading meditation sessions for police and other professionals, and spreading his message of mindful kindness, the topic of his book, "Are You Kindful?: How your practice of kindfulness can build a happy and peaceful nation."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Expulsions of Indian diplomats from Canada renewed concern about incursions from foreign governments into Canada. The Agenda gathers a panel to discuss this break in Indo-Canadian relations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Has there ever been a more intriguing personal journey by a Canadian journalist than Michael Coren's? He's gone from conservative provocateur to staunch Catholic to Anglican priest with a giant heart. Coren has written a lot of books, but his newest is called, "Heaping Coals: From Media Firebrand to Anglican Priest." And he joins Steve Paikin to discuss his journey and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group of Ontario mayors are advocating for a tougher response to homelessness and addiction in large municipalities. The Agenda invites four members of Ontario's Big City Mayors caucus to discuss a recent, unconventional proposal that calls for mandatory treatment and rehabilitation for those suffering from opioid addiction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For nearly 60 years, the S.S. Keewatin took passengers and freight from Port McNicoll in Georgian Bay across the Great Lakes to Thunder Bay, Ontario. After being setup as a floating museum in Michigan for years, the steamship was on the move again. After months of restoration and a long journey through the Great Lakes, the Edwardian-era steamship, has a new home at the Great Lakes Museum in Kingston, Ontario. This video is brought to you through a partnership with Detroit Public TV's Great Lakes Now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda invites longtime friend of the show, Frances Lankin. The former senator and former Ontario cabinet minister has been trying to make a difference in Canadian politics for over 30 years. Having recently retired early from the Senate, she joins us in studio to find out why.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American politics hardly needed something new to rattle it. But the advent of artificial intelligence promises – or threatens – to do just that, in an already tumultuous election year. Cory Alpert is a founding partner of South and West, an American political consulting firm, and is now pursuing a PhD at the University of Melbourne, researching the implications of artificial intelligence for democracy. He talks to Steve Paikin about AI in U.S. politics today, and into the future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review looked at what the record high price of gold means for Ontario, the misconceptions about ADHD, Sharon, Lois & Bram's legacy, and the nursing shortage in the province.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reports have shown that there's a nursing shortage in Ontario. Why are nurses leaving the profession and what are we going to do about it?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marc Garneau has made history twice. As the first Canadian to fly to outer space and as the first astronaut elected to the House of Commons. What does this former cabinet minister and space traveler think of that journey? He tells it all in his new book: "A Most Extraordinary Ride: Space, Politics, and the Pursuit of a Canadian Dream." And Marc Garneau joins Steve Paikin to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On June 25th, 1950, communist North Korea invaded the South. It was the first major military action of the Cold War and one of the first significant tests for the newly formed United Nations. The conflict claimed the lives of more than 2.5 million people and cemented the great power rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. Yet, the Korean War is largely a forgotten chapter of history. The inaugural episode of Forgotten War, narrated by Steve Paikin, explores this history through the eyes of someone who lived it: Canadian Korean War veteran Romeo Daley. He fought for over a year in Korea with Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry and was one of the first Canadians sent to a M.A.S.H. unit after being injured by an exploding grenade. This TVO series was made in partnership with Canada Company.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Children's entertainment musicians Sharon and Bram return to The Agenda to discuss their new album including lost songs and new music. They're joined by Randi Hampson, Sharon's daughter and performance partner.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adults, but advocates argue, very misunderstood. Here to provide us with a better understanding of what it is, or isn't, we welcome: Dr. Doron Almagor, Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist at The Possibilities Clinic; Heidi Bernhardt, Founder of the Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada and a former psychiatric nurse;, and Katelyn Weinstein, Psychology student at the University of Guelph who was diagnosed with ADHD at age 7. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canadian banks have a global reputation as safe, secure institutions with reliable dividends for investors. But federal policies have given the Big 6 a dominant position that has resulted in a lack of real competition among them, leading to excessive fees for customers and a risk aversion that weighs on the Canadian economy at large. A look at why Canada's protected financial services market needs to change in service to all Canadians, and whether credit unions or online banks offer a better alternative. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the past, a higher gold price would have spurred more exploration and mine development in Ontario. But investors' preferences have changed since the last time gold was in favour, and some recent federal regulations are adding time and expense to mine development. A look at whether gold mining in Ontario has lost its allure just as the yellow metal hits all time highs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get up close and personal with a truly staggering number of cows. Ben Loewith of Summit Station Dairy and Bill Van Nes of St. Brigids Dairy talk Holsteins, Jerseys, organic, conventional, grass fed and more. Jennifer Howe describes her customer-facing experiences at Summit Station and Stephen LeBlanc, Director of Dairy at Univeristy of Guelph clears up some common misconceptions about dairy quality and safety in Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review features a look at the Robinson Huron Treaties settlement, the Rogers takeover of Toronto sports, a possible all-out war in the Middle East, and a rise in youth violence in Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Statistics show youth violence is on the rise in Ontario. The Agenda looks at what's causing the spike in youth crime, the severity of the offenses, and what solutions could put young people on a brighter path.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How should we remember Sir John A Macdonald? At the newly resdesigned Bellevue House in Kingston, visitors can see that Macdonald had many accomplishments as Canada's first prime minister, but he also left behind a complicated legacy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With many provincial youth detention centres being closed, what happens to the young offenders behind their walls? And where will the money saved from their closure go? Jessica Evans is an assistant professor of criminology at Toronto Metropolitan University, and she joins us to explain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One year after Hamas's attack on Israel, the war in Gaza shows no signs of stopping. Now following Israel's incursion into Lebanon, and Iran's ballistic missile attack on Israel, is the Middle East on the verge of a full-blown regional war? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yale historian Timothy Snyder talks to Steve Paikin about his latest book "On Freedom" - what it is, how it's misunderstood, and why it's our only chance for survival. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do the following Toronto sports teams have in common: the hockey Leafs, the basketball Raptors, baseball's Blue Jays, soccer's Toronto FC, hockey's Marlies, and the football Argonauts? Answer: Rogers now owns them all. What does that mean for the communications juggernaut, and more importantly, for those of us who expend too much emotional energy cheering for those teams? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Until Jackie Robinson's arrival in 1947, baseball banned players of colour. But something extraordinary happened this season: A new attempt to right the wrongs of history. Bob Kendrick, the president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, joins The Agenda to explain this forgotten history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time, more than 1 million Ontarians visited a food bank in the last year. And that's the eighth year in a row that that number has increased. And the future doesn't look much better. Two-thirds of groups that make up Ontario's food bank network say that they fear they will not be able to meet future demand, leaving people hungry. Carolyn Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of Feed Ontario, says that the data is another result of Ontario' affordability crisis. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Supreme Court of Canada ruled that First Nations communities were owed billions of dollars from the Canadian and Ontario government as part of the Robinson Treaties settlement. Some nations say the settlement is an underpayment. The Agenda looks at why some of the settlement has not been paid, and what it might take to correct this historic wrong. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review featured a conversation with one of the commissioners of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the current state of covid-19, Ontario's water infrastructure challenges, and Toronto's congestion nightmare.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is trying to do something that's never been done before in Canadian history. He says he will fight for a fourth consecutive victory, despite being miles behind his Conservative adversary in the polls. Stephen Maher, author of "The Prince: The Turbulent Reign of Justin Trudeau," joins Steve Paikin to discuss this and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting around Ontario's capital city is a nightmare. How can Toronto dig itself out of this mess? And why does it matter for the rest of the province? Jennifer McKelvie, Deputy Mayor and Toronto City Councillor for Scarborough–Rouge Park; Giles Gherson, President and CEO of the Toronto Region Board of Trade; Baher Abdulhai, Professor in the Department of Civil & Mineral Engineering at the University of Toronto; and Lanrick Bennett Jr., Urbanist-in-Residence at the University of Toronto's School of Cities join Steve Paikin to discuss construction, bike lanes and a potential underground tunnel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Half of all water tests in at least 44 Ottawa-area high schools over five years showed traces of lead that exceeded federal standards, according to an examination by The Investigative Journalism Bureau. And concerned parents say they are not notified when tests exceed guidelines. A look at the results of the investigation, including moves by the province, school boards and parents to address the problem, on The Agenda.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Water infrastructure – that is, water mains, sewer systems and treatment plants – are usually out of sight and out of mind. That is, until something goes wrong. Calgary and Montreal experienced substantial water main failures this year. In Ontario, Hamilton has redoubled it efforts to evaluate and improve its very old, very complex system to prevent more sewage spills. And there are many more examples of systems in the province that need upgrades or expansions. And what does all of this have to do with aggressive housing targets Ontario has introduced? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario city that's not letting what you flush go to waste. How the world's largest wastewater energy transfer project will lead the way to heating and cooling our homes with low carbon emissions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario's municipalities are experiencing a lot of growth and have ambitious housing targets to match. Are the old ways of funding infrastructure still working? Ehren Cory, President, and CEO of the Canada Infrastructure Bank; Lisa Laronde, President of the Canadian Association of Women in Construction; Drew Fagan, Professor at the University of Toronto, and former Ontario deputy minister of infrastructure; and Craig Dyer, Former Chief Financial Officer, Region of Waterloo, join Steve Paikin to discuss how municipalities will finance it all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was more than four years ago when the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic and the world shut down. Now, things have largely returned to the way they were, but the virus still remains. How dangerous is COVID-19 today? And have people forgotten that the disease poses health risks and some are still feeling the effects of poor mental health? For insight, The Agenda welcomes: Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist at the Toronto General Hospital; Dawn Bowdish, executive irector at the Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health and professor of medicine at McMaster University; and Kwame McKenzie CEO, Wellesley Institute and director of health equity at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Residential school survivor, Phyllis Webstad is the founder of Orange Shirt Day and author of a new children's book: "Today is Orange Shirt Day." She joins Steve Paikin to explain how she turned that painful legacy into a powerful tool for Reconciliation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nine years after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission handed down their 94 calls to action, commissioner Marie Wilson reflects on the Commission and how far Canada has come. The Agenda welcomes her to the studio to discuss her new book, "North of Nowhere."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

History and art have major influences on fashion, but when does it go too far? Indigenous multidisciplinary artist Brit Ellis and Indigenous Fashion Arts creator Sage Paul discuss an ongoing Canadian debate on how we define Indigenous art and fashion as being culturally appropriated or celebrated. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda this week looked at the fast fading fortunes of the Liberal Party of Canada, the Meta news ban one year later, the state of the child welfare system in Ontario, and how the French immersion program is fairing in Canada.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author Karen Cumming was poised to be an astronaut. Turns out, she didn't go to Mars, but the potential of leaving Earth forced her to take a better look at her personal finances. She shares those learnings with The Agenda.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A lot of former students claim that they can't speak a minimum of French even after years of French immersion. The Agenda discusses what are the gaps of French Immersion Programs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeyan Jeganathan visits wetland ecologist Janice Gilbert on the frontline lines of the battle against invasive phragmites. Considered one of Ontario's worst invasive species, Phragmites australis, also known as the European common reed, has exploded into an ecological nightmare since arriving on Canada's eastern shores two centuries ago. Up until now, the battle has been fought by municipalities and community groups working in isolation, but thanks to new funding for a province-wide strategy, there is hope that Ontario's wetlands can recover. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are some Ontario agencies placing foster kids in hotels? This is one of many stories of concern in the child welfare space right now. We invite agency representatives and experts to The Agenda to discuss the current state of Ontario's children's aid system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although much more awareness is given to postpartum depression, Dawn Kingston's research shows that just as many, if not more women struggle with their mental health during pregnancy. One in four women will deal with mental health problems in the prenatal period, but these issues are still widely misunderstood. Her new book, "Your Brain on Pregnancy" offers more information, screening questions, and treatment options to help guide expecting parents who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, or toxic stress. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just over a year ago, news disappeared from Facebook and Instagram in Canada. The Agenda looks at the impact Meta's ban on news has had on Canadians.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canadian soccer star Atiba Hutchinson never gave up on the dream of taking this country to the ultimate competition: the World Cup. He joins us to discuss his memoir "The Beautiful Dream."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After two by-election losses, the NDP terminating its supply-and-confidence agreement, and the Conservatives preparing to table a motion of non-confidence, what does the year ahead look like for Trudeau's liberals? For more on that we're joined by: Ginny Roth (Partner, Crestview Strategy), Andrew Perez (Principal, Perez Strategies), Brian Topp, (Chair of the Board, The Broadbent Institute), and Tonda MacCharles (Ottawa Bureau Chief, Toronto Star). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence is fast becoming a part of our daily lives, showing up in places we would never have expected, including at border crossings around the world. With more people fleeing their countries due to war, climate change, and other destabilizing events, our next guest argues that countries are turning to AI-driven technology to help secure their borders, but at a profound human cost. Joining us now, lawyer and anthropologist Petra Molnar, author of "The Walls Have Eyes: Surviving Migration in the Age of Artificial Intelligence".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daniel Levitin is fascinated by the effect of music on the brain, and he has written another book exploring that connection. It's called "I Heard There was a Secret Chord: Music As Medicine," and he joins Steve Paikin to discuss how we can harness music to help us heal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-and-a-half years ago, the Ontario government identified that we would need 1.5 million new homes over the next decade to meet demand. What will it take to solve Ontario's housing crisis? Mike Moffat, the Founding Director of PLACE Centre at the Smart Prosperity Institute; Lisa Helps, the Executive Lead of BC Builds; Neil Rodgers, Strategic Advisor for the Ontario Home Builders Association; and Jag Sharma, Deputy City Manager of Development and Growth Services for the City of Toronto join Steve Paikin to discuss possible solutions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly six years after cannabis was legalized by the federal government, issues remain with how pot is regulated in Canada. The Agenda explores several facets of legalization, including whether consumers have enough information about the harms and benefits of cannabis, gaps that still exist with respect to pardons and why cannabis-related health research has fallen behind. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uncertainty about the future availability of labour and pesticides are among the reasons some Ontario farms are introducing robots into their operations. A look at the autonomous machines that are starting to appear in Ontario fields and the people who are help driving their adoption, on tonight's The Agenda. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Activist, lobbyist and entrepreneur Abi Roach has been involved in the cannabis business in Ontario one way or another since 2001. Tonight on The Agenda, she discusses the evolution of province's cannabis strategy, changing attitudes toward the substance and why she thinks the future remains bright for the sector.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christopher Liddell has had a front row seat to the circus that is U.S. politics. He was White House deputy chief of staff during Donald Trump's presidency, and was involved in three presidential transition cycles, including Donald Trump to Joe Biden. He joins us to talk about his new book about presidential transitions, called "Year Zero: The Five-Year Presidency."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On June 8th, 2024, the Canadian Society of Creative Iron Arts hosted an iron pour at the Hamilton Museum of Steam and Technology. The event was open to the public, with scratch blocks available for purchase. Attendees carved their own molds to be filled with molten iron, which once cooled could be taken home as a souvenir.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Lepofsky joins The Agenda to talk about his own journey with disability and his work "Swimming Up Niagara Falls!" about the fight to include disability rights in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are the infrastructure projects in some Ontario cities worth the pain homeowners, businesses, and commuters are feeling? Ontario is steadily growing but its major roads and bridges need repair and new transit is sorely overdue. What is the cost to Ontarians and will the benefits outweigh years of inconvenience? For insight, we welcome: urban affairs journalist John Lorinc; University of Toronto civil engineering professor Shoshanna Saxe; urban planner Neil Loewen; and York-Eglinton BIA managr Steven Spencer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report by Desjardins Economic Studies finds that not enough housing is being built for students. The Agenda interviews the co-author of the report to look at what's behind this housing shortage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should students still pursue a university or college education? The Agenda looks at all sides of a very complicated question.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research shows that 2.5 million people in Ontario don't have access to a family doctor. This number is expected to nearly double in two years. Last year, Queen's University partnered with Lakeridge Health to create a new family medicine program and help train Ontario's next generation of family physicians.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On TVO's new show "Old Enough!" little kids run errands for their parents, venturing out into the world alone for the first time. In reality, most parents today wouldn't dream of letting their four-year-old head out by themselves. Do kids today have enough opportunities to develop independence and resilience? Or do parents stifle their kids' growth when they try to protect them from all harms?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Language can feel like a battlefield with words meaning different things to different people. Words such as "woke," "freedom," and even "taxes" have fraught definitions depending on whom you ask. Carol Off, former host of CBC Radio's "As it Happens," writes about all this in her new book: "At a Loss for Words: Conversation in an Age of Rage." She joins Steve Paikin to discuss her insights on the meaning behind six words. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research shows 67 per cent of Canadian kids between three and 17 take part in some sort of sport or activity, but 58 per cent of parents are facing financial challenges trying to keep their children in the game. While youth involvement in sports leads to many benefits, how can parents keep their children enrolled without breaking the bank? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the U.S. prepares for a showdown between vice-president Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump, The Agenda looks at the historic nature of the race. For more on this, we're joined by: Vivian Salama (National Politics Reporter, The Wall Street Journal), Andrew Coyne (Columnist for The Globe and Mail), and Kim Nossal (Professor emeritus in the Centre for International and Defence Policy at Queen's University) and author of "Canada Alone: Navigating the Post-American World." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Municipalities provide many services that people use. But increasing pressures have made it fiscally challenging for them to deliver these services. To explore what can be done to get Ontario's prosperity back on track, Daniel Tisch, the President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce; Cameron Love, the President and CEO of The Ottawa Hospital; and Nishan Duraiappah, the Chief of Police for Peel Regional Police join Nam Kiwanuka. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's the journey like for women who want to take on leadership roles? Tabatha Bull, the President and CEO of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business; Lisa Laronde, President of the Canadian Association of Women in Construction, and President of RSG International; and Dionne Sinclair, Vice President of Clinical Operations and Chief Nursing Executive at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, join Nam Kiwanuka to share their insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently, the federal government announced changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program by reducing the number of workers employers can hire in an effort to weed out what it considers misuse and fraud in the system. To discuss the implications of these changes on businesses, workers, and the economy, we are joined by Mike Moffat, Director of the Smart Prosperity Institute; Dan Kelly, CEO and President of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business; Elizabeth Long, immigration lawyer for Long Mangalji LLP; and Jim Stanford, economist and Director of the Centre for Future Work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The effects of government policies like the Indian Act and the residential school system are still felt by Indigenous people today. Tanya Talaga explores this enduring legacy in her new book, "The Knowing," in which she retells Canadian history through an Indigenous lens, and tracks her family history all the way back to her great-great-grandmother, Annie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sudbury, Ont. is reportedly the only Canadian city to be mentioned on the moon. That's because this northern Ontario city helped NASA astronauts unpack some mysteries on the lunar surface. In this episode, we'll learn why Sudbury was so important to two Apollo missions, we'll meet one of the people who helped train the astronauts here and we'll hear why Sudbury's role in training astronauts might not be over. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Violent crime in the Greater Toronto Area is spiking, with shootings in York region up 92% compared to this time last year. Carjackings over the same period have doubled. A look at the regions most affected and how police say they will try to crack down on what they describe as trend toward violent gun crime, with Jason Miller, crime reporter with The Toronto Star.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Homelessness and addiction topped the mayor's agenda at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario conference. The Agenda talks to four Ontario mayors about how they are finding solutions and what they're demanding from the provincial government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What changed at Queen's Park this summer? A new – and the biggest – provincial cabinet of all time. A new education minister, but only for a few months because he liked the job so much, he quit politics altogether. A new policy on safe injection sites. But what stayed the same? Doug Ford's Conservatives are still the overwhelming first choice among voters. To discuss what's percolating at the Pink Palace, we welcome: Toronto Sun political columnist Brian Lilley; Globe and Mail Queen's Park reporter Laura Stone; The Trillium editor-in-chief Jessica Smith Cross; and Greg Brady, "Toronto Today radio host at 640 Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blood-sucking ticks are everywhere. With over 9,000 species creeping around the world, which ones should Ontarians be most concerned about? University of Guelph researcher Katie Clow explains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 400 series highways. The 401. Hundreds of schools. Hospitals. Canada's first subway. Metro Toronto itself. He helped make much of modern Ontario. But behind every great man is, of course, a good barber. This is the story of Old Man Ontario, the Silver Fox, the Laird of Lindsay, Leslie Frost and the peculiar influence his barber had over policy in Ontario during the 1950s.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author Allyson McOuat loves horror stories, especially those real and fictional specific to gen X pop culture. So much so that she wrote a book of essays with 1980s and '90s as their backdrop. "The Call is Coming from Inside the House," is a raw look at McOuat's influences and touchstones as she navigates her life from early adulthood on as a queer woman trying to fit into society's prescriptions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"In a Violent Nature" is a new horror film by director Chris Nash and producer Peter Kuplowsky. Shot in Sault Ste. Marie, its fresh take on the slasher flick - this one told from the point-of-view of the killer - has earned rave reviews from critics and horror fans. It joins a long list of horror movies made in Ontario - from "Black Christmas" to "The Fly" - that have scared audiences for decades. To discuss Canada's significant contribution to horror movies, we welcome: Chris Nash, director of "In a Violent Nature;" Peter Kuplowsky, a producer of "In a Violent Nature," and programmer of TIFF's Midnight Madness;Carolyn Mauricette, programmer at Fantasia International Film Festival and Blood in the Snow Film Festival; and Alexandra West, author of "Gore-geous: Personal Essays on Beauty and Horror," and co-host of the Faculty of Horror Podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A cook's knife is their most important tool and Eugene Ong has been obsessed with cutlery for a long time. As a chef, he came to appreciate the necessity of a perfect edge - from there, knife sharpening became a full-time obsession. For 15 years, Eugene has run KNIFE in Toronto, teaching young cooks how to hand-sharpen their gear as well as passing on the lessons of discipline required to maintain blades in peak condition. Now he also drives the Knife Truck to various towns in Ontario to bring his hand-sharpening skills to a broader audience.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a beloved game found in cottages and farm houses across the province. And every year on the first Saturday in June, the top players from around the world gather in Tavistock, Ontario to compete in the World Crokinole Championship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Grand Theatre in London, Ont., author Mark Kearney tells Steve Paikin about his book, "Al Christie: Hollywood's Forgotten Film Pioneer."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cultural long-term care homes have provided elder care for seniors steeped in their language, diet, and cultural traditions. But recent legislation has left these homes grappling with an influx of new residents from outside those cultures, and are seeing what they say are serious consequences. How can care homes that cater to specific culturally needs be preserved in Ontario?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How has Toronto changed in 15 years? Shawn Micallef, urban affairs columnist for the Toronto Star and co-founder of Spacing magazine brings readers along on 31 walks around the city to highlight how the landscape, landmarks, and neighbourhoods have changed since the original 2010 publication of the book. Host Jeyan Jeganathan joins him on a brief tour of the Toronto Islands; learns about psychogeography - how location affects the emotions and behaviour of people, what can be learned by walking a city, and how Toronto has changed, for better or worse, over the years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since the end of the Second World War, Canada has had increasingly close ties with Germany. In March of this year alone, Germany exported almost $1.5 billion worth of goods to Canada - mostly cars and pharmaceutical products. Sabine Sparwasser has been Germany's ambassador to Canada for the past seven years. Her ambassadorship is about to come to an end, so we welcome her to find out what's working and what could be working better between the two countries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new revision of Rosemary Sadlier's "The Kids Book of Black History in Canada" includes African acknowledgments that asserts how Black Canadians are an integral part of shaping this country's history and includes a look into the issue of lack of representation this community experiences. Sadlier, the former president of the Ontario Black History Society, talks to Nam Kiwanuka about this important update and her ongoing work highlighting the contributions of Black people to Canada.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and more intense in Canada. The public health risk of heat waves is growing, especially in cities where renters may not have air conditioning. How is this extreme heat affecting our lives, and what can we do to protect ourselves? For insight, we welcome How-Sen Chong, climate campaigner, Toronto Environmental Alliance; and Caroline Metz, managing director: Climate Resilience and Health, Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation at the University of Waterloo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There was a time when Richard Peddie couldn't have been more urban. He was the chief executive officer of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, responsible for bringing the population of a small town into the Scotiabank Arena most nights of the year. So it's somewhat ironic that Peddie's latest book is called, "Great Small Towns of Ontario," in which he chronicles the qualities that make for this province's ten best.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Canada marks National Indigenous Peoples Day, what lessons can be drawn from this country's experience with reconciliation, reckoning with residential schools, and treatment of Indigenous people? For insight, we welcome: Deborah Parker, CEO of The National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition; Chief Robert Joseph, Ambassador Reconciliation Canada; Kaila Johnston, Director of Education & Public Programming at the National Centre of Truth and Reconciliation at the University of Manitoba; and Karyn Pugliese, editor-in-chief of Canadaland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario Provincial Air Service will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in Sault Ste. Marie. Ontario's fleet of yellow aircrafts conduct a number of resource management programs including aerial wildlife surveys, fishing stocking, rabies vaccination distribution, but it's best known for its expertise in forest fire patrol and suppression. The service has gone through a number of name changes over the decades and morphed into the Aviation, Forest Fires and Emergency Services under Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. Jeyan Jeganathan visits the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre to revisit the rich history of the Ontario Provincial Air Service in northern Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our review of the week begins with Andrew Lawton discussing his book on Pierre Poilievre. Then, how food can bridge cultural, political, and religious divides. What does a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas look like? And, assessing Canada's record on reconciliation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1911, a northern Ontario boomtown that had sprung up around massive new gold mines was incorporated into a bedroom community called Timmins. In the years that followed, those mines, and the people who worked in them, drove the local economy in more ways than one. And not all of them on the level. According to our guest, theft was so common, it created a booming black market in illicit gold. Well, Timmins' once-thriving underground economy and the people who populated it - the villainous and virtuous alike - are the subjects of a new book, ,City of Thieves,, written by veteran northern reporter Kevin Vincent. While the book is fiction, it's based on real events that he has researched and documented since 1984.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The long-awaited ceasefire plan announced by President Biden for what he called a ,durable end to the war, between Hamas and Israel has brought some hope for an end to hostilities. For more on what this ceasefire proposal means for Israelis and Palestinians, Benjamin Netanyahu's future as prime minister, and the geopolitical implications for the region, we welcome: Hussein Ibish (Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington); Bessma Momani (University of Waterloo), and Janice Stein (University of Toronto).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Palestinian Muslims contend with the horrors of ongoing war and violence overseas, friends and family here at home struggle to maintain their sense of hope and peace. Aishah Ashraf talks with Shaykh Hosam Helal and Dalia Hashim of ISNA Canada to learn how a bustling Mississauga Mosque supports their community at a time of utter devastation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For NHL players, winning the Stanley Cup is the ultimate goal. After facing the challenge of winning hockey's biggest trophy, tradition states that each winning player and coach gets to spend a day with the cup. On the Stanley Cup's official summer tour, the winners welcome family, friends, and their hometown community to join in their celebration. Canadian journalist and sportscaster Jim Lang shares these stories in his new book, "My Day with the Cup."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the summer of 2021, The Haifa Room, a standout Middle Eastern restaurant in Toronto's west end, started as a take-out window. It has grown into a beloved dining spot. Run collaboratively by Palestinian and Israeli owners, The Haifa Room offers a menu rich with flavours from their childhoods. It's a place where food transcends cultural, political, and religious divides, creating a harmonious dining experience.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An insightful conversation with Yael Splansky, the Senior Rabbi of Holy Blossom Temple, Toronto's historic first synagogue. Amidst a time of emotional turmoil within her community, Rabbi Splansky faces unprecedented challenges in her rabbinical leadership. She tells us how she works to foster peace and resilience during these trying times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pierre Poilievre has led the polls for months and all indications are the Conservative Party of Canada leader could be the next prime minister. But how much do Canadians really know about him? That's a question broadcaster Andrew Lawton attempts to answer in his new book, "Pierre Poilievre: A Political Life."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The biggest question in Ottawa these days is will Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stay on to lead the Liberals into the next election, or is he simply too unpopular to win a fourth term? Author and journalist Paul Wells considers that and Trudeau's nine years in power in his new book, "Justin Trudeau on the Ropes: Governing in Troubled Times." Steve Paikin spoke at the ARC Hotel, just a few minutes from Parliament Hill in Ottawa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Royal Canadian Mint is where Canadian coins are made. It makes circulation coins and precious metal products, such as bullion bars and coins, and collector coins. But in the digital age, what role will the Mint play? Jeyan Jeganathan meets with the team in Ottawa to find out and gets to see how some of the precious metal products are made.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Requests for asylum in Canada from 2SLGBTQIA+ refugees are popping up from every corner of the globe, driven by hostile environments and laws targeting the community. The Canadian government has partnered with civil society organizations to welcome those facing persecution in their own countries, but are we and other states doing enough to protect this vulnerable minority? For insight, we welcome: Aleks Selim Dughman Manzur (they/them), co-executive director at Rainbow Refugee Society; Adrienne Smith (she/her), principal lawyer at Smith Immigration Law; Bali Ali (they/them), queer human rights defender; Devon Matthews (she/they), head of programs at Rainbow Railroad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pride celebrations in Ontario have transformed since the first "Gay Day Picnic" on Hanlan's point in August 1971. Toronto's Pride parade estimated over 2 million spectators last year. As corporate participation increases and celebrations become more mainstream, has pride strayed from its roots as a place of protest? And, are pride celebrations really a place where everyone can freely express themselves?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Noah Irvine was just five when his mother died by suicide, and just 15 when his father passed away after an accidental prescription drug overdose. Now Noah has made it his mission to change the way Canada cares for people struggling with mental health challenges and addiction. In addition to writing over two thousand letters to elected officials across the country, Noah has memorialized his parents, his journey, and his vision for the future in his book, "Learning to Live."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was truly one of the greatest moments in Canadian history. Ben Johnson sprinted his way into the record books with an astonishing 9.79-second 100-metre dash at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. But his gold medal memories didn't last. Johnson tested positive for banned steroid use and lost his gold. Journalist Mary Ormsby takes us back to those emotional days but follows up with some probing questions about what else was going on with the other runners in that race. She chronicles it all in her book, "The Incredible Life of Ben Johnson: World's Fastest Man*" Steve Paikin talks to both the athlete and the author.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Travelling from one end of the province to another is not an experience many Ontarians undertake. And, if they did, it seems that a car would probably be one of the best ways to get around. But what if you don't have a car or don't want to use one? Train services are not frequent enough, buses might not get you exactly where you need to go. Flights are expensive and beyond reach of many everyday Canadians. Places all over the world have embraced a more transit-friendly approach, so what's a province to do to get to the same level. We ask four transit and transportation experts to weigh in on how difficult it is to get around in the country's second-largest province and what can be done.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicholas Kristof is a two-time Pulitzer Prize winning journalist for The New York Times. His gripping new memoir, "Chasing Hope: A Reporter's Life," takes us behind the headlines of some of the most defining events of our lives, including the Tiananmen Square protests, genocide in Darfur, a civil war in Yemen, and closer to home, the addiction and despair faced by working-class America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Think about how well you're doing financially these days compared to in 2015, when the current federal government first took power. Are you doing better? Worse? Did COVID have a longstanding impact on your circumstances. Pollster Greg Lyle has been looking into these and other questions. He's the founder and president of the Innovative Research Group.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The season for outdoor events and festivals is near. Yet the aftermath of most events shows overflowing waste bins and loose litter, not to mention the carbon emissions released to run the event. Some festivals are only doing the bare minimum when it comes to practicing sustainability but there are several who lead the charge in implementing green initiatives to minimize their ecological and carbon footprints. For insights we welcome: Kate Johnston, executive director of Hillside Festival, and Pam Carter, president of Mariposa Folk Festival; and avid event volunteer and Masters of Environmental Studies, Gabriella Dee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite being declared the national sport by Canada's first prime minister John A. MacDonald in 1867, cricket didn't quite take off in Canada in the way it has in other parts of the world. But that's changed recently with a steady influx of leagues and young talent all over the country, and Canada qualifying for its first ever T20 World Cup. What accounts for this resurgence and what types of investments are needed to ensure cricket continues to thrive here?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What can be done to curb intimate partner violence? Then, what are the economics behind liberalizing alcohol laws in Ontario? Is women's sports finally coming into its own. And journalist Nahlah Ayed talks about her new book.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ahead of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, journalist and author, Nahlah Ayed tells the story of two elite agents working for Britain's Special Operations Executive in France during the Second World War. "The War We Won Apart" is constructed from hours of unpublished interviews and archival and personal documents to recount the love story of a British woman, Sonia Butt and a French-Canadian soldier, Guy d'Artois who fought the war apart.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mute Swans are considered invasive, but after generations in Ontario, they have become naturalized. Learn the basics and beauty of Ontario's Mute Swan population, how its being controlled and why its important for them to live their natural lives in wetlands and parks. With contributers: Kelly Duffin, founder of the Mute Swan Society; Dana Stratton, volunteer with the Mute Swan Society. Quin Malott, Parks, Forestry and Cemetery Manager, City of Stratford; and photographer Will Bailey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year, the Professional Women's Hockey League had its inaugural season, and the WBNA announced it is expanding to add a team in Toronto. Plus, April 2025 will be the start of the Northern Super League, Canada's first professional women's soccer league. Amidst this growth, are women's sports finally getting the recognition they deserve? We ask: Ella Shelton Defence, PWHL New York; Theresa Burns, head coach of women's basketball at McMaster University; Shireen Ahmed senior contributor at CBC Sports and instructor of sports journalism and sport media at Toronto Metropolitan University;Helena Ruken, co-founder and CEO of AFC Toronto, a member of the new Northern Super League.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario government is moving ahead with plans to liberalize alcohol sales in the province but questions remain about whether the risks will outweigh the benefits, and not just in terms of convenience. A look at how much the provincial economy might be boosted by increased alcohol sales compared to the costs of a potential increase in alcohol-related harms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet the joyful and dedicated team working with and for Waterfront Toronto and learn how they are adding resilience to the watershed and at the same time revitalizing the city's waterfront to some of its former glory. With contributers: Shelley Charles, MinoKamik Collective; Netami Stuart, senior project manager of parks, Waterfront Toronto; Melanie Sifton, MinoKamik Collective, Department of Forestry, University of Toronto; and Shannon Baker director, Parks & Public Realm, Waterfront Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sara Epp, assistant professor in the Rural Planning and Development Program at the University of Guelph, discusses the state of cannabis production in Ontario and the challenges facing the industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two fathers, Brian Sweeney and Dan Jennings, have been at the forefront to raise awareness about intimate partner violence and how tragedies have a ripple effect on communities. In Sault Ste. Marie, they join Steve Paikin to discuss what it has been like to lose a daughter too early in life and the fight they are on to see something change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tragedies last year pulled intimate partner violence to the centre of discourse and municipalities across Ontario have declared it an epidemic. What are organizations doing to address it and what can be done to resolve the underlying causes? Sault Ste Marie Councillor Angela Caputo; Inspector Derek Dewar; executive director of CHADWIC Home Paula Valois; and Stephanie Fetherston, senior director of Algoma Family Services, come together to discuss this serious issue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Lorena Agolli started learning how to make shoes, she knew she'd found her vocation. Working with her hands came naturally, and she now owns Sole Survivor - a cobbler shop in Toronto that restores and repairs dozens of pairs of shoes every day. Using generations-old equipment, she and her team are part of an old-school movement towards traditional methods and restoration that combines generational knowledge with new technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is unclear how many undocumented immigrants live in Canada. Estimates range from 20,000 up to 500,000. Many of these are youth who were brought to Canada as young children and had no choice in the matter. Youth with precarious status or no status struggle to access public services like health care and education. Who are these undocumented youth, and does our country do enough to protect them? We ask: Sarah Pole, Childhood Arrivals Support & Advocacy (CASA) Program, Director at Justice for Children and Youth Legal Clinic; Akil Augustine, producer and host at MLSE and the Toronto Raptors, formerly undocumented; Arlo Kempf associate professor at Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto; and Stefan Enrique Joseph Kallikaden Youth and Access to Education Coordinator at FCJ Refugee Centre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governments across North America keep building and expanding roads. This can have deadly consequences for animals but, potentially, drivers too. One way to manage these risks is by building ecopassages, that help animals get around barriers humans create. This animal overpass near Burwash, Ont., is the first and-for now-only one of its kind in Ontario.In this episode of Living History, we'll get a close look at the Highway 69 animal bridge, learn about the impact it's been having and see other ecopassage styles that you might never notice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Muraly Srinarayanathas, serial entrepreneur and chair of 369 Global, discusses what supports are needed for immigrants to Canada.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Northern Ontario is geographically huge. About the size of France and Italy combined, but with the population of Mississauga. Trying to provide municipal services spread across such a vast expanse runs into facts that many southern cities simply don't face. In one of the key cities of the north, Sault Ste. Marie, at the Algoma Conservatory of Music, we welcome four out of the five members of NOLUM - the Northern Ontario Large Urban Mayors. Michelle Boileau, mayor of Timmins; Peter Chirico, mayor of North Bay; Paul Lefebrvre, mayor of Sudbury; and Matthew Shoemaker, mayor of Sault Ste. Marie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

High inflation, supply chain disruptions, war and a potential geopolitical reshuffling have thrown Western democracies out of order. In his new book, Jeff Rubin, former chief economist for CIBC World Markets, writes about what the world will look like under these pressures. It's called, "A Map of the New Normal: How Inflation, War, and Sanctions Will Change your World Forever."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

December 27, 1942, a Canadian military troop train smashed into the rear of a local Canadian Pacific passenger train killing more than 30 people and injuring 150 more. The crash, considered one of the worst train accidents in Canada's history, is the topic of Jamie Bramburger's latest book, "Sudden Impact: The Almonte Train Wreck of 1942." Jeyan Jeganathan visits Almonte to talk to Bramburger about the factors that led to the crash, and the people affected on that fateful day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explore the threats by invasive species lurking in our cherished green spaces and join TVO on a hike to meet the dedicated volunteers of all ages committed to preserving our urban forests, ravines, and wetlands. Get to know groups like Toronto Nature Stewards and Don't Mess With The Don, the unsung heroes working tirelessly to maintain the balance of our natural havens, ensuring they remain vibrant for us and future generations to enjoy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Thread with Nam Kiwanuka is entering its third season, premiering this Wednesday, May 29. As Nam tells Steve Paikin, the season delves into pressing social issues affecting Ontarians, including dementia, screen addiction, and the challenges faced by international students. Episode One explores the housing crisis, featuring heartfelt conversations with individuals sharing their lived experiences, and dedicated community members striving to find solutions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Community Living Ontario received a two per cent funding increase inn the latest provincial budget, when what it needed was at least fiver per cent. What is the long-term plan to keep these vital services going?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can wood revolutionize construction in Ontario? A look at the state of the race for Mississauga mayor next month. And, how will readers and writers remember Alice Munro?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Lanigan, a third generation cattle farmer, turned his life upside down in 2016 when he halted the production and selling of beef on his farm and decided to befriend his cattle instead. With the help of Edith Barabash, Farmhouse Garden Animal Home was born. Located in Uxbridge, Ontario, Mike and Edith spend their days raising cattle and saving animals who need a home. With the help of many volunteers, this animal sanctuary educates the public about the benefits of preserving animal life and choosing compassion over profit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nobel laureate Alice Munro is widely known as a master of the short story, and one of Canada's most celebrated and beloved writers. In fact, Huron County in Ontario is often called Alice Munro Country. The outpouring of affection for her following her death, last week at age 92 only highlights the relatability of her characters and the precision of her fiction. And so we've gathered some writers who in one way or another have been affected by Ms. Munro's life and work. We welcome: Heather O'Neill, author of "Lullabies for Little Criminals" and the forthcoming, "The Capital of Dreams;" Chanel Sutherland, winner of the 2022 CBC Short Story Prize;Katherine Govier, author of "The Three Sisters Bar & Hotel;" Magdalene Redekop, author of "Mothers and Other Clowns: The Stories of Alice Munro;"and Menaka Raman-Wilms, author of "The Rooftop Garden," and host of the Globe and Mail's Decibel podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Mississauga votes for its next mayor on June 10, the winner will be just the city's third mayor since 1978. The new mayor will continue Mississauga's transformation from suburb to city, and has the potential to become a significant player in a vote-rich area ahead of the upcoming provincial election. Noor Javed of the Toronto Star, Zachary Spicer of York University, Rahul Mehta from More Homes Mississauga and Sue Shanly of the Mississauga Residents' Associations Network discuss the issues.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario will soon permit tall wooden structures up to 18 storeys, giving encouragement to the province's burgeoning mass timber sector. A look at the potential and practicality of pre-fab wood construction, including its possible impact on Ontarios' economy if the sector continues to grow. Guests include: Christoper Williams of Timber Systems; Philip Silverstein of Moriyama & Teshima Architects; Steven Craft of CHM Fire Consultants; and Anne Koven of Mass Timber Institute.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No space is neutral, according to author Tye Farrow, and it either adds to or diminishes a person's well-being. Purpose-designed buildings not only help motivate and inspire the people occupying them, they also improve overall health and performance in their bodies and minds, he says. A look at the links between physiological health and the types of buildings that improve it, with Tye Farrow, architect and author of "Constructing Health: How the Built Environment Enhances Your Mind's Health."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing papayas in Ontario seems impossible, but avid gardener Drew Raine loves a challenge and has a 12-foot papaya tree to show for it. Drew has also been growing mango, kumquats, limes, and grapefruit for more than 10 years - all without a greenhouse. Relying on containers that he can move indoors in cold weather, Drew has maintained his connection to his South American roots by bringing the tropics north.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are Ontario politicians over-coached? Then, after several disruptions can the Ontario film and TV industry bounce back? Why are so many young voters gravitating to conservative politics, and the pros and cons of drug decriminalization.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In his new essay, "The Coming Entropy of Our World Order," futurist and founder of AlphaGeo Parag Khanna looks at the volatile state of geopolitics, and where he thinks the world is headed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Decriminalizing small amounts of illicit drugs is supposed to light a path to treatment for users and de-stigmatize addiction. But has harm reduction actually been achieved? The pilot decriminalization project in B.C. - in effect since January 2023 - has hit a snag due to concerns over public safety. Meanwhile, Toronto has been waiting two years for approval of its application to decriminalize drugs. Should that bid be adjusted as the city learns lessons from the west coast? We ask: DJ Larkin, executive director of the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition; and Derek Finkle, journalist and columnist for the National Post.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Conservative Party's support among young people appears to be on the rise. What's drawing them to the party, does that echo trends elsewhere in the world, where parties on the right are appealing to the youth vote? Have tough economic times and social media brought a whole new generation of voters to the conservative fold?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor, writer, and director Kate Drummond explains the differences and nuances of acting for video games versus acting for film, TV, and stage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After film and television productions in Ontario finally dropped their pandemic testing protocols, they were hit with another setback. When writers and actors went on strike in the United States last summer many American productions that film in Ontario were forced to shut down. As a result, the economic impact of film and TV in our province took a big hit last year, and some in the industry say things have not rebounded as quickly as they had hoped. What can be done to help the industry bounce back? How can we meet the economic goals Premier Ford has laid out for media production?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When politicians hold a news conference to make an important announcement, then take questions from reporters, only to not answer the questions, then what? Four guests from all sides of the experience join Steve Paikin to discuss whether ministers and other politicians are being over-prepared for their public interactions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Horseshoe Hill train crash in Caledon, Ont., killed seven people on September 3, 1907. It affected countless families across Ontario but it also brought some good. A group of women used the tragedy to bring Orangeville its first hospital. In this episode of Living History, we'll visit the site of the wreck, see the old railway roadbed, explore the health-care legacy as it stands today in Orangeville, and hear how this deadly railway would claim more lives until the day it was ripped up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Digging into allegations of system racism in Thunder Bay. Then, can pension funds be made to be spent in Canada? A conversation with Wade Davis, and what can be done to help incarcerated individuals with mental illness.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He was at the helm when Ontario actually built housing. He was Ontario's first Black cabinet minister and first Black Speaker of the House. He was Canada's envoy to the Dominican Republic. And famously when Mike Harris vowed to "Make Ontario Great Again" and introduced a massive omnibus bill he stood up in the legislature and spoke for 18 straight hours to protest what many saw as a threat to democracy. This is the story of Alvin Curling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People with mental illness are overrepresented in the criminal justice system, often encountering the law due to symptoms of their illness, incredible gaps in mental-health care, a lack of supportive housing, and social exclusion. Most inmates (80 per cent), in the provincial institutions are awaiting trial. And only some are diverted into our forensic mental-health system. This prevalence is compounded by the overrepresentation of Indigenous, Black, and other racialized communities. To help us understand this issue, we welcome: Yusuf Faqiri, founder of Justice for Soli and brother of the late Soleiman Faqiri; Glenda O'Hara, patient of the forensic system and chair of the Client Advisory Council at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Care Centre; Dr. Mara Muraven, psychiatrist with Forensic Programs at Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care; and Mick Kunze, reintegration specialist from St. Leonard's Community Services.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Losing your parents as an adult is a unique experience that sometimes defies explanation. In "I Miss My Mommy," author and illustrator Alison Garwood-Jones presents a cast of characters in various stages of grief - from denial to acceptace. She talks about the nature of this type of loss, why her art helped her through it, and why she wanted to share her insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Canada grapples with an historic influx of asylum claimants, several groups, including the Canadian Council for Refugees, are calling on the government to revamp its refugee system. To explore why, we welcome: Ruby Sahota, Chief Government Whip and Liberal MP for Brampton North; Aadil Mun-gull-jee, immigration lawyer and partner at Long Mangalji LLP; amd Anne Woolger, founding director of Matthew House.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renowned anthropologist, and former Explorer-in-Residence at the National Geographic Society, Wade Davis discusses his latest collection of essays, "Beneath the Surface of Things."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt may be the greatest leaders in the history of democracies. Their achievements in winning the Second World War are well known, but perhaps less well known is the role their mothers played in their success. Historian Charlotte Gray's latest book is called "Passionate Mothers, Powerful Sons: The Lives of Jennie Jerome Churchill and Sara Delano Roosevelt," and she joins Steve Paikin to discuss who these mothers were.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Liberal government wants to know how to encourage Canadian pension funds to invest more at home. But that is not always in the interests of beneficiaries. A look at Canada's potential, and problems, when it comes to attracting massive investments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Barbara McLean, with her husband, retired doctor Thomas Wilson, has been running a sheep farm in Ontario for 50 years. What changes has she seen over the years? Jeyan Jeganathan talks to McLean about her life on the farm, and her plans for succession, and other topics from her book, "Shepherd's Sight: A Farming Life."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A former chief of the Thunder Bay Police Service facing serious charges by the Ontario Provincial Police confirmed the long suspected systemic racism within the police force. This is not the first time that there has been a call for a more competent police in northern Ontario and First Nation leaders are now sending their decisive call to disband the Thunder Bay police. For insight, we welcome:Alvin Fiddler, Grand Chief of Nishnawbe Aski Nation;Melanie Beardy and Vincent Ostberg, the parents of Jenna Ostberg who died under tragic circumstances;Julian Falconer, founding partner of Falconer's LLP and the lawyer representing Jenna's parents ; and Jon Thompson, a journalist based in Thunder Bay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rita Miceli discusses her experience raising her autistic child. Tech expert Sinead Bovell on Canada's AI future. Have strong mayor powers made a difference? And, Mandi Gray discusses her book, "Suing for Silence."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sudbury, Ont., has a complicated past. Settlers came to the area with the building of the railway, but the mining and logging industries made the area so toxic that not even shrubs or grasses could grow. But over the last half-century, governments, researchers and the industries themselves have been working to bring natural life back-and it's only halfway done. In this episode, contributor Warren Schlote describes how Sudbury became a desolate wasteland. We'll meet one of the people who has led the 'regreening' process, and hear about how some unresolved industrial damage is harming marginalized people to this day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After the rise of the #MeToo movement, activists noticed an increase in a new tool to fight against allegations of sexual assault. Some men accused of misconduct have turned to defamation lawsuits as a way to protect their career and reputation. Does Canadian law make it too easy for men to sue their accusers? Is this the new avenue to litigate sexual assault cases? Mandi Gray explores these questions in her new book, "Suing for Silence: Sexual Violence and Defamation Law."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We don't often get significant new books on former prime ministers, let alone on two in the same book. But from 1958 to 1968, Canada got two of its most noteworthy PMs. Journalist John Ibbitson's new book is called, "The Duel: Diefenbaker, Pearson and the Making of Modern Canada." Steve Paikin caught up with him in the House of Commons.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once upon a time, every Ontario mayor got elected by winning the majority of votes across their municipality. But when it came time to vote at council, they had just one vote like every other councillor. Not so anymore. A little over a year and a half ago, the Ontario government gave the mayors of Toronto and Ottawa so-called strong mayor powers. It meant that under certain circumstances, these mayors could override council votes that they'd actually lost. Today, 46 mayors in total have those extra powers. How's it all working out? Well, we've gathered three of the 46 here to find out: Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath; Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward; and Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In late 2022, generative AI, like ChatGPT, shook the world and called into question what these advancements meant for our collective future. What impact would it have on the way we work? Was it being used ethically? Should schools be banning its use? Many of these questions remain. Here to give us an update on whether Canada is ready to tackle its future with AI is Canadian futurist Sinead Bovell, founder of tech education company, WAYE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former national news anchor Lloyd Robertson gives us his thoughts on the importance of media literacy and what news sources you should trust and why.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the years, Timothy Garton Ash has seen a lot of European history, and now the Oxford University professor has written a book on his first-hand travels through Europe's history, some of which was apparently subversive enough that the Stasi - the East German spy service - had a file on him. The book is called "Homelands: A Personal History of Europe," and it's won the 2024 Lionel Gelber Prize for the best book on foreign affairs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Antimicrobial resistance - when germs are no longer responsive to the drugs used to treat them - is a growing concern in public health. It's estimated by 2050, 10 million people could die if new antibiotics are not discovered. Jeyan Jeganathan visits Carleton University where student scientists are hoping to unearth a solution to the global threat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In "Giaci and Me," Rita Miceli shares the peaks and valleys of her family's journey raising and supporting their son and brother Giaci, who was diagnosed as autistic at the age of two. As a mother, Miceli worked hard to teach her son many skills while as an educator for over 31 years, she's advocated to bring awareness to autism. Her memoir won the Best New Canadian Manuscript award and it is about finding joy, acceptance, and love in the challenges of her perfect, imperfect life. This story tells parents, friends and professionals that they are not alone, and that autism can be worked with.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario's recent budget announced a $60 million increase for autism programming. But with 60,000 kids on the waitlist, will this be enough? Is the current Ontario Autism Program providing autistic youth with the support they need?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, The Agenda debated the controversial carbon tax; examined why Ontario criminal court cases are being delayed or dismissed; looked into whether Ontario can be a leader in AI technology; and discussed the Russia Ukraine war with journalist Tim Mak.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The escalating rates of Parkinson's disease both globally, and here in Canada, have led some researchers to warn that it is becoming a pandemic. To help shed light on a disease that still has no cure, we welcome: Dr. Lorraine Kalia, neurologist and senior scientist at the University Health Network's Krembil Brain Institute. She is also an associate professor at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Medicine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does Canada underreport the severity of wealth inequality? That's the conclusion of a new report that says our official statistics severely underestimate how rich the richest Canadians are. To discuss its findings, we're joined by the report's author Dan Skilleter, director of policy at the nonprofit outfit Social Capital Partners. He was once a senior economic advisor to former premier Kathleen Wynne.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalist Tim Mak was there on day one of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He was NPR's war correspondent and most recently returned on his own as an independent journalist, founding the newsletter, "The Counteroffensive." From Ukraine news fatigue to how the human stories of the war need to be told, and the recent U.S. aid package, he gives us a glimpse into life in Ukraine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From MarioKart to MMORPGs, video games have come a long way from their rudimentary beginnings. In Western society some people are inventing new coping mechanisms to deal with loss and grief. Andre Stam is a psychotherapist who uses gaming as a way to connect with his young patients; Dale Andersen-Giberson uses Narrative Therapy to rewrite the dominant stories of his clients' lives; Simon Stanton's brother passed away when he was 11 years old and video games became a crucial aspect of his healing; Ryan Couldrey discovered a trove of his dead friend's games; Gabby DaRienzo designed A Mortician's Tale about cremation and funeral preparation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grade 10 student Xavier asks: how will AI effect the creative arts? Film and TV composer Janal Bechthold discusses how artists might adapt to the new technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A look at the policies, infrastructure, and people that have made Ontario a top global destination for artificial intelligence research, investment, and talent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pleas are being made to the provincial government to properly fund and staff the Ontario court system as criminal cases are being thrown out due to delays and backlogs. Victims of cases involving domestic violence and sexual assault are speaking out after their trials have been rescheduled several times, resulting in their alleged abusers freely walking away without any consequences. Due to the Jordan decision, trials must be completed within 18 months of charges being laid or 30 months for federal cases. We dig into what is causing delays and how the situation can be solved.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carbon emissions across the country have fallen since the implementation of a federal carbon tax in 2019, but provincial governments are pushing back, saying the program is too costly for residents. Are there alternatives to the policy, or does it simply need to be refined? We ask: Kris Sims of Canadian Taxpayers Federation; and Stewart Elgie of the University of Ottawa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Toronto Grade 12 student Misstura asks: how can we reverse the effects of climate change? Dawn Bazely, a professor in the Department of Biology at York University, gives us her answer on the ways we can mitigate climate change, if we start now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How best can Canada's earmarked AI funds be spent to stay competitive? Then, Laura Tamblyn Watts discusses her new book on how to care for aging parents. And, what is the state of entrepreneurship in Canada?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The elevated place of sports in North America and the societal expectations that surround them are often perpetuated at the expense of the athletes' mental health. Whether this is in team sports or individual sports predominantly played by boys and men, any weakness whether real or perceived is weaponized, while toughness and hypermasculinity rule both on the field, as well as in the locker room. Dr. Teresa Fowler has investigated how stereotypes in elite-level men's hockey influence the mental well-being of boys and men, while Geoff Girvitz, the founder of Bang personal Training, takes a mindfulness-based approach to strength training and leads a platform for men in taking care of themselves with "dad strength."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's going on with men? The aftermath of the #MeToo movement shattered the idea that most social ills like online abuse or sexual assault long hidden under wraps are just stemming from men being men. This crisis of conscience and identity has shifted the collective idea of what it means to be a man, therefore a consensus around a healthy conception of manhood becomes critical. Alex Manley has written and edited for a men's website for over a decade. In their non-fiction debut called "The New Masculinity," Manley pushes against the common and harmful myths on how men are supposed to carry their manliness in order to offer a guide that teaches healthy lessons about how to be a man today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fred Winegust, Project Specialist at Reena and Christopher Wong of Young Urban Farmers are working to strengthen their communities by way of container gardening. Students, neighbourhood organizations, and restauranteurs alike can benefit from growing fruits and vegetables in underutilized urban spaces. From rooftops to patios, parking lots to back yards, any space can be transformed into a productive mini (or mega) farm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recent data suggests entrepreneurship is in decline across Canada. Are people choosing to move away from a self-employed lifesyle? And what are the consequences of lower levels of small business ownership across the province? We ask: Jeff Coull, executive director of the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre; Nancy Wilson, founder and CEO of the Canadian Women's Chamber of Commerce; Nadia Ladak, program marketing officer at Startup Canada and co-founder of Marlow; and Joel Blit, associate professor at University of Waterloo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If plants come from seeds, where do seeds come from? That question from Grade 2 student Wyatt is answered by Peter Kotanen, a professor in the Department of Biology and Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of Toronto Mississauga.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More people are living longer, many with better quality of life. Even still, aging parents often require support and care they've never needed before. Laura Tamblyn Watts has a new book out aimed at improving communications when the roles reverse: when the adult children suddenly find themselves the informal caregivers of their older parents. She discuess, "Let's Talk about Aging Parents: A Real-Life Guide to Solving Problems with 27 Essential Conversations."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's a heat pump and what's all the hype about? We drop into a heat pump party with Sarah Lazarovic, VP of Communications for Rewiring America and Richard Laszlo, Founder of CutYourHomeCarbon.com, as they share their knowledge on what to know before you buy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Valentine Goddard, founder and executive director of the AI Impact Alliance, answers a question from Grade 10 student Xavier on the effect artificial intelligence may have on the creative arts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government recently announced a $2.4 billion dollar investment in artificial intelligence. It includes money earmarked to accelerate the adoption of AI in sectors as far flung as health care and agriculture. The feds say this will help to 'secure Canada's AI advantage." But does Canada even have an advantage in AI compared to our neighbors? Are Canadian companies and industries doing enough to embrace this technology? And is there a potential downside if we embrace AI too quickly? For insight, we welcome: Ajay Agrawal, the Geoffrey Taber Chair in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the U of T's Rotman School of Management, and Faculty Affiliate at the Vector Institute for Artificial Intelligence; Krista Jones, Chief Delivery Officer at the MaRS Discovery District; andKristina McElheran, assistant professor of Strategic Management at the University of Toronto Scarborough, and Rotman School of Management.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When ChatGPT launched in late 2022 the great promise was that this was only the beginning and that AIs would only exponentially get more sophisticated and powerful. But has AI hit a wall? Are those big exponential gains that were promised beginning to plateau? Are we now in a world of diminishing returns for AI? Gary Marcus, Emeritus Professor of Psychology and Neural Science at NYU, pushes back on the hype around AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scientist and educator Stella Ng answers a student's question about health care advocacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalist Davd Frum talks to Steve Paikin about the loss of his daughter. Then, how can Ontario combat human trafficking. What can be done about the rise of renovictions in Ontario? And, Jane Philpott on her book, "Health for All."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former federal minister of health, and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at Queen's University, Dr. Jane Philpott discusses her new book, "Health for All: A Doctor's Prescription for a Healthier Canada."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A stark increase in "bad faith " renovictions of Hamilton tenants in the last decade, a tent city on the grounds of Hamilton city hall. What is happening there to create these unfortunate situations? We talk to a landlord, tenants, and the city councillor who helped usher in the bylaw set to begin next year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hamilton has passed a new "bad faith" renoviction bylaw that makes it more difficult to drive existing tenants out of their homes to attract new ones at a higher price. Is it needed in other Ontario cities, too? Or is there more the province can do to help residents with affordable alternatives. We ask Patrick Johnstone, mayor of New Westminster, B.C., a jurisdiction that has successfully cut down on renovictions; Toronto city councillor Parthi Kandavel, and Tony Irwin, CEO of Federation of Rental-Housing Providers of Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kristen den Hartog's book, "The Roosting Box," takes a look behind the walls of the Christie Street Veteran's Hospital in Toronto, also known as the Dominion Orthopedic Hospital. For nearly 30 years, the hospital treated thousands of injured soldiers. And as Jeyan Jeganathan discovers, the hospital was a place filled with the aftermath of war, but also a place of invention and healing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the face of a media landscape full of alarming headlines about climate change, it can be hard to hang on to hope for the future of our planet. Shelby Riskin of University of Toronto, along with David Pearson and Gerard Courtin (Laurentian University) discuss the urgent need for stories of recovery, optimism, and concrete action to improve our future environment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to a Statistics Canada report late last year, Ontario has the second highest rate of human trafficking in Canada. A high concentration of urban area is said to contribute to the higher rates of human trafficking in the province, as well as easy access to international border crossings. Law enforcements are working towards catching those criminally involved, but what can we do to protect ourselves and our loved ones?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Miranda Frum, the 32-year-old daughter of journalist David Frum and his wife Danielle, died this past February. And it has given the Frums an expertise in grief they never wanted but must now reckon with.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following up on the elimination by the Ontario government of the pilot project in Hamilton, Thunder Bay and Lindsay. Then, will Canada follow suit if the U.S. bans the popular social media app, TikTok. And how can companies be held accountable for their greenwashing practices?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Joordens, a University of Toronto psychology professor, speaks to TVO about understanding the driving force behind curiosity and how to harness it. We visit his lecture to see curiosity-driven learning in action and find out from students how they stay engaged in the classroom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The merger of Canada's two largest telecoms - Rogers and Shaw - sparked a corporate drama of epic proportions in the spring of 2021. And the full-throttle fight for control of an empire spanned not just the boardroom, but also within a deeply divided family. Alexandra Posadzki is a telecom reporter for the Globe and Mail, and helped pulled back the curtain for the rest of us throughout that dustup. She maps out the whole story in her new book, "Rogers v. Rogers: The Battle for Control of Canada's Telecom Empire."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Competition Bureau is stepping in to crackdown on greenwashing, companies could be forced to back up their environmental claims with adequate and proper tests, and not just on their products but also on their business operations. After a Canadian coffee company was fined $3 million for being dishonest about its single-use cups as recyclable, accusations of misleading environmental claims are rising with some of the biggest corporations across the country still being investigated.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jane Goodall has long been an iconic figure for conservation and the fight against climate change. In celebration of her 90th birthday, scientists David Pearson, Shelby Riskin, and Gerard Courtin discuss Goodall’s legacy of hope. THey also touch on the importance of emphasizing stories of concrete action, recovery, and optimism for the next generation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Master electricians and trail blazing technicians are leading the charge to democratize the energy grid.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. is inching closer to a potential ban on the popular app. What would it mean if Canada followed suit?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tenants across the GTA are engaged in rent strikes due to what they say are unsafe and unfair conditions. Above guideline rent increases are at issue. This means landlords raise rents above Ontario government rates. And although property owners say they're within their legal rights to upgrade the buildings, some long-term tenants may not be able to afford to stay or pay inflated market prices elsewhere.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2017, Kathleen Wynne's government piloted a three-year basic income project in the Hamilton area, Thunder Bay, and Lindsay. Shortly after Doug Ford's Conservative win in 2018, it was announced that the pilot would be cancelled, after only a year. In early March of this year, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice certified a class- action claim against the provincial government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the past decade, HMCS Ojibwa, a Cold War-era submarine, has welcomed hundreds of tourists to Port Burwell, Ontario since the decommissioned sub was converted into a tourist attraction. After more than 30 years of service, the submarine was destined for the salvage yard, but was saved by the Elgin Military Museum in St. Thomas. As host Jeyan Jeganathan explains, financial troubles associated with the submarine are putting another of Port Burwell’s historic landmarks at risk of crumbling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Jim Davies, a cognitive scientist from Carleton University, explains how art piques our curiosity at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy has unveiled Ontario's budget and it's a big one. The province is spending an unprecedented amount on building infrastructure projects but is expected to see large deficits over the next two years. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath dig into the details. The Ontario Liberal Party has announced its candidate for the Milton byelection, and it's not Bonnie Crombie. Galen Naidoo-Harris, the son of former Milton MPP Indira Naidoo-Harris, will run. However, his candidacy leaves open the question of where the new Ontario Liberal leader will plant her flag. And in Your Column, My Column, Steve and John Michael go over some specific parts of the budget that really grind their gears. You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tinder and Hinge, the top two dating apps in Canada, are being accused of having a "predatorY" business model by six American app users. Some psychologists are calling this lawsuit absurd and are saying that the responsibility lies in the hands of the user. Where other experts say the interface plays a large part in encouraging users to continue swiping, in turn gamifying the experience.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canada routinely faces criticism that it does not meet spending commitments as a NATO ally. And recently, the Department of National Defence's own internal reporting painted an alarming picture of the state of the Canadian Armed Forces. Polling shows that Canadians increasingly worry about what this all means for the country's presence on the world stage. For more on how to navigate these difficult waters, we welcome: Kerry Buck, former Canadian Ambassador to NATO, now a senior fellow at the University of Ottawa; Guy Thibault, a retired Lieutenant General in the Canadian Army, who's currently Chair of the Board at CDA Institute; and Christian Leuprecht, professor at the Royal Military College of Canada and Queen's University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nathan Keeshig of Ziibaakdakaan Maple was able to tap the sugar maples at Cape Croker park weeks earlier than usual this year. With the weather being unpredictable, what does climate change mean for Canada's favourite condiment? David Pearson of Laurentian University weighs in on where the sugar maples will likely thrive by the end of the century.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy joins Steve Paikin to discuss the plans for government spending in the next year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario government just released its plans for spending for the next year. But are they priorities sound? Experts weigh in.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Members of the opposition discuss the plans for government spending just announced in the spring budget.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin talks to Kitchener Centre MPP Aislinn Clancy about how she became the second Green Party member of the Ontario legislature.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A look at the deliberation and scrutiny that goes into creating Ontario's annual spending roadmap, with former Ontario finance ministers Ernie Eves, Janet Ecker, and Greg Sorbara.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the wake of the "no" vote to mark a new epoch, Dr. Soren Brothers, the first climate curator of the ROM, and geologist Dr. Francine McCarthy on the golden spike team, defend science and address the path forward for humankind.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How does aging affect the brain, and how old is too old to hold positions of power? Then, restoring trust in fashion's sustainability claims.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The standard story of old age is a period of cognitive decline. 86% of Americans seem to agree with this story. They think 81 year old President Biden is too old to serve another term as. And another 62% think the same of 77 year old Donald Trump. But is this standard story of the aging brain wrong? Do some of our cognitive capacities actually improve in old age? Do we actually become more cognitively and mentally capable of leadership as we grow older? The Agenda looks at the science of the aging brain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How is it that society seems to hold two diametrically opposed stereotypes about aging at the same time? Old people are cognitively impaired and too frail to do much of anything. Or, conversely, they are the wise owls who've gained the insight of the ages. The former is probably more prevalent than the latter. But should it be? With us to consider that: Daniel Levitin, author of "Successful Aging: A Neuroscientist Explores the Power and Potential of Our Lives:"Allison Sekuler, the Sandra A. Rotman Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience at the Rotman Research Institute; Natasha Rajah, professor of psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University and Canada Research Chair in Sex, Gender and Diversity in Brain Health, Memory and Aging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With 17 albums and three Juno awards to his name, singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith is a critical part of the Canadian songbook. He also just turned 60, and celebrated this milestone with a retrospective performance at Toronto's iconic Massey Hall. His latest record is called, "The Vivian Line," and he joins us to discuss his enduring career.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Through his personal essays in "Black Boys Like Me: Confrontations with Race, Identity and Belonging," writer and educator Matthew R. Morris reflects on his development from youth to adulthood, from subtle racism experienced in elementary school to becoming a mentor to Black youth as a teacher. At Tecumseh Senior Public School, where he attending and then taught, he talks to Jeyan Jeganathan about what sports, music, education, and family taught him about his identity and why it's important to pass those lessons on.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the current Competition Act stays silent on climate change, the environment and sustainability, allegations of "greenwashing" from companies, especially in the fashion industry sparked a crisis of trust from shoppers. With the buck of responsibility constantly being passed back and forth between businesses and the government, Kelly Drennan who's the founding executive director of Fashion Takes Action and Jaclyn Patterson, founder of Shopwise, tell us what they do to improve the standards of fashion sustainability in Canada.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Publisher of "The Vintage Seeker" Kristina Urquhart connects people who love shopping and selling secondhand. She tells us why prices in thrift stores have soared recently and how sometimes even shopping secondhand doesn't mean taking action for the environment. She also dives into the behind-the-scenes of the major clothes resale apps in Canada and why the most popular one in Europe called Vinted had to pull out from the Canadian market earlier last month.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The use of robots and automation on farms solves a number of challenges for operators, while introducing new ones. But this transition is inevitable and will be widespread, according to experts experimenting and implementing the technology. A look at the kinds of robots being used in Ontario fields and greenhouses, the ecosystem developing around the technology, and why it matters to consumers. Guests: Chuck Baresich of Haggerty AgRobotics, Bill VandenOever of Bold Robotics, and Mary Ruth McDonald of University of Guelph.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario's farmers are facing a host of challenges, from rising costs to succession planning for the next generation of growers and producers. A look at how the sector in the province plans to meet those issues, and how one farmer decided to invest in a new dairy barn bristling with technology. Insights from Drew Spoelstra, president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the Anishnaabe Cultural Experiences program, Lenore Keeshig leads guests on guided hikes at Neyaashiinigmiing unceded territory, a.k.a. Cape Croker Park on the Bruce Peninsula. Fostering a joyful connection with nature encourages participants to protect the environment and appreciate the beauty of the land. In this segment, she teaches us about trail protocol, working with natural fibres, and the science and beauty of translating the Anishnaabe word for "rainbow."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Debbie Nightingale loves goats ... and chickens, and pigs, and alpacas. Haute Goat Farm offers a chance to engage with animals most city-dwellers don't encounter regularly, and an opportunity to slow down, breathe, and connect. With activities ranging from goat yoga to disc golf to picnicking on the farm, the options for connecting with the natural world are plentiful.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Hall of Fame goaltender Ken Dryden has written a fascinating book on his high school graduating class, titled "The Class: A Memoir of a Place, a Time, and Us." Dryden checks in with the few dozen kids he went to Etobicoke Collegiate Institute with, and tells their stories of triumph, heartbreak, and tragedy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With funds infused into the initiative, is Ontario poised to become a electric vehicle superpower? Then, how can post-secondary institutions be better funded?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to the Ontario Medical Association, 2.3 million people don't have a family doctor in this province. That shortage gets worse the further north you go. Dr. Dannica Switzer is a rural generalist who recently left her practice in the north. She joins us from Algoma for insight into why this is happening and what might be done about it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been more than 30 years since the Invading Species Awareness Program began in Ontario. From invasive zebra mussels to grass carp and emerald ash borer- they are the frontline when it comes to protecting Ontario from harmful species. Field reporter Jeyan Jeganathan explains how there's a new creepy crawly threat looming in our waters - the marbled crayfish.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin talks to Mayor Olivia Chow about issues she's been tackling since taking the helm, such as housing, refugees, and working with different levels of government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"I'm Mohawk when I paint." Musician, writer, artist Tom Wilson talks about his journey from music to painting, describes his art and artistic process, and discusses how the practice helps him tell his personal story of learning in his fifties that he was Mohawk, and the wider story of Indigenous people in Canada.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report led by the Ontario Drug Policy Research Network (ODPRN) at St. Michael's Hospital and Public Health Ontario has found that people who died from a substance-related overdose faced significant gaps in treatment. For insight on this we welcome one of the authors of the report, Tara Gomes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government recently introduced legislation aimed, it says, at making the online universe much more safe. Bill C-63 would tackle online abuse with serious consequences for hate crimes - including possible prison time. For insight on what's needed to make Canadians safer in the digital world, we welcome:Sabreena Delhon, CEO of the Samara Centre for Democracy; Barbara Perry, Director of the Centre on Hate, Bias, and Extremism at Ontario Tech University;and Dax D'Orazio, a post-doctoral Fellow in the Department of Political Studies at Queen's University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

International carmakers, along with the federal and Ontario governments have injected billions of dollars into the country's automotive sector to spur electric vehicle production. Does this mean that Ontario, and Canada, will become a global EV superpower? We ask:Ontario's Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, and the MPP for Nipissing, Vic Fedeli;Dennis Darby, president and CEO of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters; Josipa Petrunic, president and CEO of Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium; Joanna Kyriazis, director of Public Affairs for Clean Energy Canada; and Greig Mordue, ArcelorMittal Chair in Advanced Manufacturing Policy and Associate Professor in the Faculty of Engineering at McMaster University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Philosophy professor Kristin Andrews thinks a lot about how animals think. We talked to her about why understanding dolphin babysitters, and whether rats have culture could enhance our multispecies world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tributes continue to pour in for Canada's 18th prime minister, Brian Mulroney. Someone who knew him very well and liked him very much, despite their political differences, is Canada's ambassador to the United Nations. He joins us from New York with his memories and thoughts on Brian Mulroney's legacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are nearly 50 colleges and universities in the province of Ontario, and they're all screaming for more money. It's a complicated problem. They say the province doesn't fund them enough. They say the federal government cost them nearly $2 billion by cutting back on visa for foreign students, who pay six or seven times the tuition of Canadian students. And the province has frozen tuition fees for the past five years and will do so for another three, which will deprive the post-secondary of even more money. For insight, we welcome: Peggy Sattler, NDP MPP for London West; Adil Shamji, Liberal MPP for Don Valley East; Mike Schreiner, leader of the Green Party of Ontario and the MPP for Guelph; and Alex Usher, president of Higher Education Strategy Associates.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In some countries, judges are elected and affiliated with political parties. Here, they are appointed by the government of the day. Traditionally, the idea has been that they should be non-partisan, independent, and make decisions based on the law and the merits of the case. So, when Premier Doug Ford recently indicated that he wanted to appoint ,like-minded, judges to sit in Ontario courtrooms, the hackles went up in the legal community and beyond. For insight, we welcome: Michael Spratt, partner at the Ottawa criminal law firm Abergel Goldstein & Partners. He's served as a director of the Criminal Lawyers' Association; Mitch Heimpel, director of policy at the public affairs firm, Enterprise Canada;and Joanna Baron, executive director of the Canadian Constitution Foundation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Depression. Addiction. Anxiety. OCD. Anorexia. Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, is being used to treat a wide range of mental-health disorders, with some very promising results. But what is the experience like in these sessions that can last as long as eight hours? And what exactly does it offer people? And why does a single dose help 80 per cent of people quit smoking or 6 per cent of people recover from severe depression? Producer Eric Bombicino visits "the most beautiful room" in Toronto General Hospital and finds out how this psychedelic is changing people's minds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a government wants to introduce a bill with a variety of unrelated items? It becomes what's called an ,omnibus bill., The current Ontario government introduced just such a bill last week, and we invite Peter Loewen, the director of the U of T's Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, to give us an explainer on the meaning and intent of omnibus bills.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bob Runciman spent almost three decades in the Ontario legislature as an MPP and two-time interim leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario. He then became a senator in the Stephen Harper federal government. Steve Paikin meets with Bob runciman at Queen's Park to talk about his political life as documented in his memoir, "From Mad Dog to Senator."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might think Donald Trump's arrival in 2016 marked a new era of populism in the world. But we've been here before in this province. And, boy, it was something. In the inaugural episode of Ontario Chronicle, Steve Paikin takes us back to 1934. This is the story of the boy premier, the populist firebrand, the rabble-rouser, the late-night carouser, Mitch Hepburn.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Friday is the deadline to set up a registered retirement savings plan, and most financial institutions offer loans to last-minute contributors. Financial planner Anthony Gordon breaks down how this works and whether you should borrow to invest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario's government debt projection for 2023-2024 is forecast to be significantly higher with the launch of an Ontario Infrastructure Bank. Will a public bank solve Ontario's infrastructure deficit?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former lieutenant-governor of Ontario Lincoln Alexander saw something profound in the young, troubled Quentin VerCetty before anyone else did. Twenty years later that's who's been commissioned to create a sculpture of the late, great man.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario government earmarked almost $5 billion in funding over four years to help long-term care homes hire and retain care staff. It's since added additional millions in incentives to attract thousands to become personal support workers over the next few years. For insight on whether those efforts can overcome the PSW shortages still projected by the province's fiscal watchdog, we welcome: Sharleen Stewart, president of SEIU Healthcare, a union representing more than 60 thousand frontline health-care workers; Dr. Samir Sinha, director of geriatrics, at Sinai Health; and Pat Armstrong, Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus of sociology at York University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connie and Craig Cook have been living in their Earthship in southwestern Ontario for more than a decade. An Earthship is a type of sustainable home designed to be completely off the grid and in harmony with nature. Host Jeyan Jeganathan visits their home and explores the viability and interest in these terrestrial structures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sheila White's parents met in Nova Scotia just after the Second World War. As she describes in her biographical novel, "The Letters: Postmark Prejudice in Black and White," it was a love story for the ages. With one caveat: Vivien was white, Billy was Black. How they forged their relationship against family and societal disapproval provides a snapshot into the fraught race relations of the time, and how two individuals worked to dispel narrow thoughts about who they were and what their life together would be based on their differences. She talks to Jeyan Jeganathan about hers and her parents' anti-racism advocacy and what she learned by delving into their story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elizabeth Dowdeswell stepped down last year as the longest-serving Lieutenant-Governor in Ontario history. Steve Paikin talks to her about being the Queen's (and for a short time, the King's) representative in Ontario during a once-in-a-century pandemic, and dealing with a very different premier, at least for his first year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's the likelihood of winning a Governor General's Literary Award for young people's literature? That might just be the kind of thing that the main character of Sarah Everett's book, "The Probability of Everything," would try to figure out. It's the story of a girl obsessed with odds, and the chances of things occurring, including the end of the world. As it turns out, the book DID win that prestigious award in 2023. And we're pleased it brings Sarah Everett to our studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the province celebrates Black History Month, the Ontario government has announced that the exceptional contributions of Black Canadians who helped shape Canada will now be a mandatory part of the Canadian history curriculum for grades 7, 8 and 10. We welcome high school educator and president of The Ontario Alliance of Black School Educators, Deborah Buchanan-Walford.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dancer turned choreographer Esie Mensah didn't think Afrofuturism applied to her. Questioning shade-ism helped change that. Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/giveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inspired by the original wind phone in Otsuchi, Iwate Prefecture, Japan, Keith Lamont has installed a disconnected vintage phone on his farm in Acton, Ontario. He hopes visitors experiencing grief will find it a useful tool for processing loss. Catherine Manning (music therapist, Hospice Wellington) and Linda E. Clarke (writer, performer) talk about their experiences with the wind phone and its surprising affects.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In December 2022, Lanark County became the first community in Ontario to declare the state of intimate partner violence an epidemic. The Mayor of Mississippi Mills, Christa Lowry, and Pamela Cross from Luke's Place explain why that was important, and what communities are doing to combat this growing problem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even after 30 years since Mike Harris ushered in the Common Sense Revolution, people debate the merits of his policies. If you liked him, he was the guy who did what he said he was going to do: cut taxes, balance budgets, and make government smaller. If you didn't like him, he was the guy responsible for deaths in Walkerton and Ipperwash. Alister Campbell, one of Harris' senior-most advisers, has put together a collection of essays designed to give the premier's time in office a second look. The book is called, "The Harris Legacy: Reflections on a Transformational Premier." He's joined by Sandra Pupatello, Liberal MPP from 1999-2011; Marilyn Churley, New Democratic MPP from 1990-2005; Chloe Brown, policy analyst at the Future Skills Centre and a former two-time Toronto mayoral candidate; and Robert Benzie, Toronto Star Queen's Park bureau chief.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For cash-strapped cities facing the ongoing housing crisis in this country, the $4 billion federally funded Housing Accelerator Fund could help get more homes built faster. For insights into what the fund could mean for their municipalities, we welcome: Waterloo Mayor Dorothy McCabe, North Bay Mayor Peter Chirico, and Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are the unique dimensions of and solutions to rural homelessness? From this year's ROMA conference, panelists explore the dimensions of and solutions for growing issues of homelessness in rural and remote communities. Panelists are: Catherine Hardman, CEO, Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth; Terrilee Kelford, National Alliance to End Rural and Remote Homelessness; Kelly-Anne Salerno, assistant director, Housing Admin and Operations, Region of Waterloo; and Henry Wall, CAO, Kenora District Services Board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Later this month, commuters in the GTHA will see fare integration that allows riders to transfer seamlessly among TTC, GO Transit, and other transit agencies. It's just one of the transit stories that Lex Harvey is following for the Toronto Star, where she is a transportation reporter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What should we make of the Ford government reversals on policies such as the Greenbelt and Peel Region? Then, does Ontario's energy source need to change? What is ailing post-secondary institutions? And what are some solutions to curb the opioid crisis?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building on its research and recommendations in Opportunities for Rural Ontario in a Post-Covid World, the ROMA Board of Directors undertook extensive research into to the barriers to accessing health services. ROMA's Closer to Home brings insight into the issues, discusses innovations solutions, and provides recommendation for a healthier and sustainable rural Ontario. To discuss these issues, we welcome: Robin Jones, chair of ROMA; Michael Nolan, chief emergency services, Country of Renfrew; and Dr. David Savage, Northern Ontario School of Medicine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than three million homes in Ontario use natural gas for home heating. And it accounts for about 10 per cent of the energy supply in the province's electrical grid. But municipalities across the province are saying ,no, to new natural-gas fired power plants citing climate change concerns. Does this signal the beginning of the end for natural gas in the province? Do we need to ditch natural gas? Or do we need it to ensure we have affordable and reliable power?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Half the human population menstruates, yet the biological process still seems like a mystery. Canadian author and obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Jen Gunter shares insights from her latest book, "Blood: The Science, Medicine, and Mythology of Menstruation," and reveals some fascinating biological, social, and political details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thirty-four years ago, Sault Ste. Marie's city council overwhelmingly passed a resolution to make it an officially unilingual English city. Results were mixed then. Now, the city has returned to the French-English controversy but with a very different outcome. To discuss how this issue has played out historically and is now being viewed, we welcome Mayor Matthew Shoemaker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently officials in Belleville declared a state of emergency, after paramedics responded to 23 drug overdoses in a span of just two days. It's another deadly chapter in the ongoing opioid crisis in the province, and country. For insight, we welcome Jennifer Cormier, executive director of the John Howard Society of Belleville, and Dr. Carolyn Snider, emergency physician at Unity Health Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How are food insecurity challenges affecting rural Ontario? From the ROMA conference, this panel looks at how rural municipalities, the agricultural sector, and community organizations can come together to support food security. Panelists: Carolyn Stewart, CEO, Feed Ontario; Drew Spoelstra, president, Ontario Federation of Agriculture; Sara Epp, assistant professor, Rural Planning & Development, University of Guelph; and Christine MacDonald, chief administrative officer, Bruce County.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the past few months, troubling news about the financial health of Ontario's post-secondary institutions has come to light. Many colleges and universities face serious deficits in the years to come. After the federal government announced a cap on international students, that made the situation worse. To discuss this troubling issue, we welcome Jeff Casello, associate vice president of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, and a professor at the University of Waterloo; Anne Sado, president emeritus of George Brown College; And Alex Usher, CEO of Higher Education Strategy Associates.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the 2024 Rural Ontario Municipal Association conference in Toronto, The Agenda talks to Carolyn Stewart, CEO of Feed Ontario about the state of food banks in the province, and the innovations in the sector. Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/giveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1995, the Toronto Raptors became one of two Canadian teams to join the NBA. The chances of extinction were high. Jeyan Jeganathan talks to Alex Wong about his latest book, "Prehistoric: The Audacious and Improbable Origin Story of the Toronto Raptors," and how a maverick entrepreneur and an unlikely cast of characters built the Toronto Raptors from the ground up. Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/giveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the Ontario Legislature set to resume next week, we focus on issues that have bedevilled the current government: the Greenbelt and the dissolution of Peel Region, two issues that Premier Doug Ford has famously taken firm stands on, then thought better of it and retreated. Panelists: Columnist and former Stephen Harper speechwriter, Michael Taube; Kim Wright of Wright Strategies and a former NDP adviser; and Martin Regg Cohn, the Toronto Star's Queen's Park columnist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Public services cost money, but do governments levy enough taxes to pay for them?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the depths of pandemic lockdowns and social distancing, many people, desperate for something good, sought out and adopted pets of all kinds. Now, those puppies and kittens are all grown up, and sadly, some are reportedly winding up far from being treasured family members. With more on this: Kathy Powelson, Executive Director of Paws for Hope Animal Foundation; Phil Nichols, Chief Operating Officer of the Toronto Humane Society; And Camille Labchuk, Executive Director of Animal JusticeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With over 64 per cent of Canadians playing video games on a regular basis, it'd be safe to say that Canada is a nation of gamers. But video games are more than just a form of entertainment and escape, they can serve as great learning tool to motivate, engage, and inspire. We speak to three experts to find out more about game-based learning, responsible gaming as well digital parenting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For generations, Black parents have 'the talk' with their kids - a conversation about the risks associated with being Black in this society. What's important when it comes to introducing children to systemic racism and everyday aggression? How has this evolved overtime? And do all parents share this kind of responsibility?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One out in four adolescent girls reports suffering from symptoms of major depression. Girls and young women are twice as likely as boys and young men to suffer from anxiety. The girls are not okay, and there is an emerging neurobiological explanation for these troubling numbers. Donna Jackson Nakazawa, author of "Girls on the Brink: Helping Our Daughters Thrive in an Era of Increased Anxiety, Depression, and Social Media," discusses the crisis facing today's youth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maybe there's a new litter of racoons in your garage. Or a scratching noise in the ceiling that makes you think squirrels. How about an all-consuming confrontation with a skunk? In cities and towns across Ontario, people and wild animals interact whether they want to or not. New York opted to hire a Rat Czar to oversee their biggest problem. Does something similar make sense for the critters we see in our cities here?welcome: Nathalie Karvonen, director of the Toronto Wildlife Centre; and Brad Gates, owner and president of Gates Wildlife Control.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group of municipal councilors and community advocates are making the case that the health of Lake Simcoe is vital to its surrounding communities. But from development pressures to climate change, the challenges are many. Why is more investment needed, and should Lake Simcoe be treated similarly to any Great Lake? For insight, we welcome: Jonathan Scott, councillor for Ward 2 for the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury; Dave Neeson, councillor, Ward 3 for the Town of Georgina; Claire Malcolmson, executive director of the Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition; and Margaret Prophet, executive director of the Simcoe County Greenbelt Coalition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many recognize Wes Hall as one of the Dragons on "Dragon's Den," the show that gives entrepreneurs a chance to get noticed. But few know about his upbringing - one filled with poverty and neglect - and how he rose to success. In his new book, "No Bootstraps When You're Barefoot," he shares his humble beginnings and his journey to the board rooms of Bay Street, Canada's financial capital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It may come as a surprise to some, but Canada has a long and deep history with blackface. To take us through that history, we welcome Cheryl Thompson, associate professor of Performance at Toronto Metropolitan University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driven by curiosity, more and more people are turning to direct-to-consumer genetic testing sites to understand a little bit more about themselves. Law enforcement has been able to tap into this trove of information to help solve cold cases that are decades old. Experts share how the process works and whether there are ethical concerns about sharing one's genetic data online. With guests: Claire Glynn, associate professor of Forensic Science at the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences at the University of New Haven; Patricia Kosseim, Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario; Toronto Star crime reporter Jennifer Pagliaro; and Ellen White, investigator at Pulse Private Investigations and host of the podcast, "Whereabouts Unknown."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ignoring problems, as we all know, does not make them go away. That's painfully true when it comes to money matters, where making bad choices can be very costly. Shannon Lee Simmons is a certified financial planner. She founded the New School of Finance and writes books that tackle the everyday challenges people face managing their money. Her new book is: "No-Regret Decisions: Making Good Choices During Difficult Times."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As high inflation sends record numbers of Ontarians to food banks, we look at the history of charitable organizations in Canada and their purpose today. How did places originally intended for temporary aid in the 1980s become permanent staples for those in need and increasingly the working poor? Experts examine where the responsibility for tackling food poverty should lie, when it comes to governments, charities, corporations, and citizens.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recent data shows the average scores of Grade 12 students have risen significantly in the past 15 years. Universities in Ontario have seen an increase in applicants with averages over 90 per cent. Experts have speculated that such a spike could be resulting from educational changes like de-streaming and the growth of online learning, a shifting perceived value of post-secondary education, or a new generation of tech-savvy students. Are students just smarter, or working harder? Is grade inflation damaging? If grades no longer distinguish students, what will?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the depths of the Depression, nearly 100 years ago, a remarkable thing happened in Chatham, Ontario. A baseball team, comprised solely of Black players, won the provincial championship. In the process - more than a decade before Jackie Robinson broke the colour barrier in Major League Baseball - they did what might have once seemed impossible. Heidi LM Jacobs documents that story in her new book, "1934: The Chatham Coloured All-Stars' Barrier-Breaking Year." Jacobs, along with Deirdre McCorkindale. board member of the Chatham Kent Black Historical Society and an assistant professor of History at the University of Guelph, discuss this momentous event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Microplastics. They are in our beer, salt, fresh fruit and vegetables, and drinking water. We eat, according to one estimate, a credit card's worth every week. They can also rain down upon us, and we can breathe them in. They have been found in our blood and embedded in our lungs. How dangerous are they? Do we enough to say they are harmful to us? The Agenda examines the microplastics inside us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is an "finfluencer," and why are they gaining popularity? We look at the increasing prevalence of content creators sharing personal finance advice on social media. Can they be trusted? While some creators are supporting financial literacy and accessibility, others are providing a false sense of expertise and gaining reach by spreading dubious advice. How can Ontarians spot the difference? And should the province crack down with legislation?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a version of the future where self-driving electric cars carry people around in an emission-free, but car-friendly world. Paris Marx, host of the podcast "Tech Won't Save Us," writes about why they don't buy that vision in their new book, "Road to Nowhere: What Silicon Valley Gets Wrong about the Future of Transportation."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The idea that young people are the most liberal and progressive people you'll ever meet is being challenged as new studies show youth are detaching from democracy across the Anglosphere. Instead, they are finding forms of authoritarianism appealing. Fed up with the challenging generational hand they've been dealt, some are denouncing democratic institutions and looking towards strong leaders to quickly fix their problems. Is Canada immune to this trend?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of us will never see a lion or leopard or giraffe in their natural habitat. But many of us, have seen them up close in a zoo. Sometimes that's in a big facility, such as the almost 300 hectares that's home to 5,000 animals in Toronto. Or, it's in a roadside location with a smaller or specialty assortment of wildlife. Either way, ensuring that the animals are well cared for is a concern for all. For insight, we welcome Dolf DeJong, president and CEO of the Toronto Zoo; Melissa Matlow, campaign director for World Animal Protection, Canada; and Kendra Coulter, professor in management and organizational studies at Western University and author of "Defending Animals: Finding Hope on the Front Lines of Animal Protection."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With a wave of recent cyberattacks on hospitals and other infrastructure, will these disruptions become a regular occurrence? Cybersecurity experts discuss what's happening, whether the attacks will be more frequent, and what we can do to adapt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The pandemic and lockdowns we've heard many times have created a "mental health tsunami." But a new study that looked at 31 different countries showed the mental health effects of the pandemic were minimal. How is this possible? The Agenda examines this study with two of its authors, Brett Thombs and Danielle Rice, and the University of Toronto's Kwame McKenzie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial planner Shannon Lee Simmons provides insight into how to prepare for a recession from a personal finance perspective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Generation Squeeze founder Paul Kershaw got a rise out of Baby Boomers recently, by stating the generation didn't pay its fair share of taxes. He joins Steve Paikin to defend his stance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ilya Sutskever, the chief scientist at OpenAI, the company that created ChatGPT, has said today's technology might be "slightly conscious." Google engineer Blake Lemoine claimed that Google's AI LaMDA was "sentient." Is it? Could AI become conscious in our lifetime? And beyond if we can create AI sentience, should we? MIT's Max Tegmark, author of "Life 3.0," and others, debate the future of AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not every regime achieves democracy through its collapse, some do so through strength. And in his book, "From Development to Democracy: The Transformation of Modern Asia," Joseph Wong argues that the latter might be more likely for regimes like China. He discusses what the West gets wrong about democratization in Asia, and what the transition to democracy could look like in modern authoritarian regimes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Milestone timelines are changing and even disappearing, If the standard life-stage achievements for graduation, career, marriage, children, homeowning, and retirement created predictability and comfort, what happens when people don't meet those marks? Does it negatively affect their sense of self? Or are the outliers the new normal? How much does technology, religion, gender inequality, racial inequity, and a changing economy play into those milestones. What would it take to bring our ideas of social norms into the 21st century?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin Davis spent his childhood climbing the rungs of hockey in Canada. He made it to major junior hockey in the OHL. He won a memorial cup with the Ottawa 67s. He played professionally overseas. In his book, "Conflicted Scars: An Average Player's Journey to the NHL," he writes, "the game of hockey is broken, it leaves scars inside us we keep hidden., From the Kyle Beach sexual assault settlement with the Chicago Blackhawks to Akim Aliu's memoir, confronting discrimination in hockey, Davis reflects on the moment hockey culture is being faced with and how a lifetime of hockey left its mark on him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Loneliness isn't just unpleasant. It turns out it's also bad for your health and for social cohesion. What may have been a taboo topic prior to the pandemic is now higher on the list of social issues to solve. For some insight, we welcome Pete Bombaci, founder and executive director of the not-for-profit GenWell Project, that aims to be a Canadian-led, global human connection movement;David Kepes, CEO of CompanionLink, a registered charity that connects isolated people, particularly seniors, with volunteers for social connection; Miriam Amdur, founder of the 52 Friends Project, which is on a mission to reduce the stigma around loneliness and prioritize friendship; and Steve Joordens, professor of psychology at the University of Toronto Scarborough.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fear, jealousy, anger. Name an emotion, and you can find an evolutionary reason why it exists. But why depression? What role does it play? Is it an adaptation that helped our survival, or is it a disorder? For insight, we welcome: Randolph Nesse, emeritus professor of psychiatry at the University of Michigan, and author of "Good Reasons for Bad Feelings: Insights from the Frontier of Evolutionary Psychiatry; Maryanne Fisher, professor of psychology at Saint Mary's University in Halifax; and Paul Andrews, professor of evolutionary psychology at McMaster University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artists, musicians, and writers are getting ripped off, according to Cory Doctorow, co-author of "Chokepoint Capitalism." From Amazon and book publishing and Spotify and music to Google and Facebook and news media, big tech has "captured culture," creating modern day monopolies and "chokepoints." Doctorow explains how these chokepoints work, and the current film and TV writer's strike and their concerns over AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once taken by the promise of social media, journalist Maria Rassa has witnessed authoritarians in her native Philippines and around the world harness this new technology to sow hate, fear, lies, and ultimately destroy democracy. The Nobel Peace Prize-winner tells Steve Paikin why she is still speaking out, even under the looming threat of a life behind bars. Her new book is called, "How to Stand Up to a Dictator: The Fight for Our Future."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the past two decades, farmers in the Niagara Region have taken the issue of water scarcity into their own hands. Even though the region is surrounded by Lake Ontario, the Welland Canal, Niagara River and Lake Erie, getting water to tender fruit and grapes has always been a challenge and climate change is only exacerbating the problem. The Niagara Peninsula produces over 90 per cent of Ontario's tender fruit and according to local farmers and politicians, that could be at risk if investments in irrigation infrastructure are not taken seriously. Field reporter Jeyan Jeganathan takes a look at the race to irrigate Niagara.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The summer season in Ontario brings with it rainstorms - and flooding. One common afterthought is the effect on our sewage systems, which can overflow and become a multi-thousand dollar problem. Steve Paikin talks to Barbara Robinson, better known as ,the sewer lady,, about how to reduce flooding and the costs associated with it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2022 weather events accounted for $3.1 billion of insured losses in Canada. That's up from just $40 million in 2008. And in the last three years, house insurance prices in Canada have gone up 14 per cent. Is Canada becoming uninsurable? Do we need to change how we build homes and even where we build them? And what does this mean for the housing crisis? The Agenda examines the growing climate risk in this country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's unimaginable to be found guilty in a court of law for a crime you did not commit. Or, imagine knowing you were innocent but you pled guilty anyway because that seemed like the best option. Kent Roach is a professor at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, and co-founder of the Canadian Registry of Wrongful Convictions. His new book catalogues the myriad ways that Canada's justice system makes such cases all too common. It's called: "Wrongfully Convicted: Guilty Pleas, Imagined Crimes, and What Canada Must Do to Safeguard Justice."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seventy-five years ago, in the shadow of the Second World War, countries put their collective heads together to write a common international moral language. What resulted was the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - fundamental moral principles each and every human being was entitled to. Since then, enforcement and guaranteeing rights has sometimes been difficult, and consensus has often been hard to find. Critics wonder if human rights complaints too often come from Western mouths, and if the definition "human right" has been expanded to its detriment. Supporters of the movement say there have been major victories and that change is incremental. The Agenda debates whether the international human rights movement has become ineffective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clinical psychologist Lisa Damour discusses her latest book "The Emotional Lives of Teenagers." In it she lays out how to support teens through this critical stage of life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades the demise of the library has been predicted. But in 2023, is the library now more relevant than ever? From makerspaces to outreach programs and media literacy opportunities to podcast and video equipment, the library has evolved into a community hub. The Agenda examines the new role of the library, with:Shamichael Hallman, Loeb Fellow at the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University and co-founder of, Libraries as Bridges; Sabrina Saunders, CEO & Board Secretary at the Blue Mountains Public Library; Mary Chevreau, CEO of the Kitchener Public Library; Vickery Bowles, City Librarian at the Toronto Public Library.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The thing about families is that at one point or another, we've all both hated and loved those we're related to. But rarely has it been described as Kelly S. Thompson does in her new memoir, "Still, I Cannot Save You." It's about her relationship with her sister, the expectations we have for our siblings and how our wrongs don't need to define us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are so many teenagers experiencing anxiety and depression? For insight, we welcome Kathy Short, executive director, School Mental Health Ontario; Annie Kidder, executive director, People for Education; Kwame McKenzie, CEO of the Wellesley Institute and professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto; Jo Henderson, director of the Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth and Family Mental Health at CAMH and executive director of Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario; and Mahalia Dixon, youth engagement specialist at CAMH.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems like technology and artificial intelligence are making more headlines with chat bots and algorithms making new discoveries almost daily. What's next? And are we prepared for a world that uses artificial intelligence? Sinead Bovell, futurist, and founder of WAYE, a tech education company, joins us to discuss what the future will look like, the potential challenges and how we can get ahead of them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over a thousand people signed a letter, including Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak, calling for a pause on AI development. But a number of recent scientific breakthroughs, especially in medicine, have been led by AI. What is the promise of AI in advancing science and medicine? Will it help usher in a new era of science? Will it replace human scientists? And could AI, in the future, produce a scientific breakthrough or theory that no human can understand?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the Medium Still the Generational Message?When Canadian media theorist and futurist Marshall McLuhan wrote his most influential works in the 1960s, it's hard to imagine he really envisioned our world as it is, in all its technological and social media complexity. Still, his notion that, ,the medium is the message, endures, and even invites us to consider how the evolution of the media ecosystem has rippled across, and perhaps even, shaped subsequent generations. For insights on whether the avalanche of media makes us better informed than we were in the past we invite, in order of generational seniority: from the baby boom: Suanne Kelman career journalist and professor of journalism, now retired; from generation X: Paolo Granta, associate professor of Book and Media Studies at the University of St. Michael's College in the University of Toronto; from the millennial generation: Noor Malik, a marketing professional; and from gen Z, TikTok content creator, Hazel Thayer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you care or not, the fact of your birth assigns you to a generation. And according to psychologist and author Jean Twenge's latest and most comprehensive book, whichever one it is, it's foundational to understanding how major shifts in our world shape us, in the broadest terms. Twenge discusses the book, "Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents - and What They Mean for America's Future."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we are looking for a job or a place to live, we are interacting with a market. But how do they work? In our final instalment of money week, registered financial planner, Shay Myers, and economists Craig Alexander, Brett House and Kaylie Tiessen discuss choices and decisions in our markets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's the difference between money and wealth? Are there good investments and bad investments? As money week continues, registered financial planner, Shay Myers, and economists Craig Alexander, Brett House and Kaylie Tiessen discuss the difference between saving and investing and how to make money work in our favour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there good debt and bad debt? Why would governments carry debt? As we continue our focus on money, registered financial planner, Shay Myers, and economists Craig Alexander, Brett House and Kaylie Tiessen explain what debt is, and, why we have it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are banks really for? And, what's the role of the central bank? As money week continues, registered financial planner, Shay Myers, and economists Craig Alexander, Brett House and Kaylie Tiessen break down the role of banks and how interest rates are used in the economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered, what, exactly is money? Is it just made up? Tonight, our money panel - registered financial planner, Shay Myers, and economists Craig Alexander, Brett House and Kaylie Tiessen - defines what money is and whether currency can change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are works of architecture that take your breath away. What makes them great? In the final instalment of our focus on design, architects Marianne McKenna; Carol Phillips, Don Schmitt, and Eladia Smoke | KaaSheGaaBaaWeak discuss the styles and buildings that inspire them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are a lot of moving parts to get buildings up and with that comes a flurry of challenges. As architecture week continues, architects Marianne McKenna; Carol Phillips, Don Schmitt, and and Eladia Smoke | KaaSheGaaBaaWeak discuss their pain points and the role that controversial projects play, such as Ontario Place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we walk into a space, how should we feel? How does light and shadow affect us while we're there?? Architects Marianne McKenna; Carol Phillips, Don Schmitt, and Eladia Smoke | KaaSheGaaBaaWeak discuss some of their works and the intention behind the design.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What goes into the design of a space? How does an architect choose materials? As we continue our focus on design, we ask architects Marianne McKenna; Carol Phillips, Don Schmitt, and Eladia Smoke | KaaSheGaaBaaWeak whether form or function should prevail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is architecture more than art and science? Can the design of a space be political? This week, architects Marianne McKenna; Carol Phillips, Don Schmitt, and Eladia Smoke | KaaSheGaaBaaWeak discuss the power of building public spaces.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can we jump to warp speed? What about teleportation? In our cosmos concluding episode, astronomer Bryan Gaensler, astrophysicist Nathalie Ouellette, theoretical physicist Matthew Johnson, and aerospace engineer Walter Stoddard discuss the limitations of our imagination, and what we can do to bridge the education gap.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How did the universe start? What's a black hole? Our focus on the cosmos continues as astronomer Bryan Gaensler, astrophysicist Nathalie Ouellette, theoretical physicist Matthew Johnson, and aerospace engineer Walter Stoddard discuss some of the theories behind how our universe functions, gravitational waves, and even dark energy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How big is our galaxy? And how do we know that? In this instalment of our focus on the cosmos, astronomer Bryan Gaensler, astrophysicist Nathalie Ouellette, theoretical physicist Matthew Johnson, and aerospace engineer Walter Stoddard discuss the mysteries of the Milky Way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all learned the planets in our solar system, but what else is there? Could there be life on one of Saturn's moons? In the second instalment of our focus on the cosmos, astronomer Bryan Gaensler, theoretical physicist Matthew Johnson; astrophysicist Nathalie Ouellette, and aerospace engineer Walter Stoddard discuss the complex system we live within.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For thousands of years, people have been looking up at the sky in wonder: What's up there? This week begins our deep dive into the marvels of the universe with astronomer Bryan Gaensler, theoretical physicist Matthew Johnson; astrophysicist Nathalie Ouellette, and aerospace engineer Walter Stoddard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there really a greatest movie of all time? Is there an agreed upon roster of the best of the best? In the final episode of movies week, film critics Thom Ernst and Alicia Fletcher; Toronto International Film Festival CEO Cameron Bailey; and filmmaker Clement Virgo discuss what makes a great film and whether there should be a canon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems like every movie is either a blockbuster or independent film. Are action films the only way to turn a profit? In the fourth instalment of movies week, film critics Thom Ernst and Alicia Fletcher; Toronto International Film Festival CEO Cameron Bailey; and filmmaker Clement Virgo discuss if there's room for more genres in the "missing middle."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The movie industry has seen its share of obstacles in recent years, from pandemic shutdowns to AI nipping at writers' heels. In the third instalment of movies week, film critics Thom Ernst and Alicia Fletcher; Toronto International Film Festival CEO Cameron Bailey; and filmmaker Clement Virgo discuss how the industry is changing and whether it will be able to weather the storm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you watch movies? Are movie theatres the best way to watch a film? We ask whether it's better to watch a movie in theatres, in the comfort of your living room, or on the go with a handheld device. With guests: film critics Thom Ernst and Alicia Fletcher; Toronto International Film Festival CEO Cameron Bailey; and filmmaker Clement Virgo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is so captivating about movies? Why are some people drawn to film? This week, we welcome film critics Thom Ernst and Alicia Fletcher; Toronto International Film Festival CEO Cameron Bailey and filmmaker Clement Virgo. Tonight, they discuss what makes movies magical.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered what makes food appealing? What senses are activated when we taste something? This week we welcome, Marie Fitrion, food writer and program manager at Foodpreneur Lab; Ann Hui, Globe and Mail food writer and author of "Chop Suey Nation;" Joshna Maharaj, chef and author of "Take Back the Tray;" and Joseph Shawana, chef at ddcx Indigenous Kitchen on Manitoulin Island. Tonight, they discuss what goes into developing a palate and why people prefer the taste of some things more than others.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should there be one literary canon? And, if so, whose works should be included. On the final episode of our focus on the art and craft of writing, George Elliott Clarke ("Where Beauty Survived"), Elizabeth Hay ("Snow Road Station"), Vincent Lam ("On the Ravine"), and Thea Lim ("An Ocean of Minutes") talk to Nam Kiwanuka about whether the classics are still relevant and whether some works have been excluded from certain canons.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do writers prefer to write fiction or non-fiction? Is one more difficult to write? How does one choose their genre? In another instalment of our writers on writing panel, George Elliott Clarke ("Where Beauty Survived"), Elizabeth Hay ("Snow Road Station"), Vincent Lam ("On the Ravine"), and Thea Lim ("An Ocean of Minutes") talk to Nam Kiwanuka about the art of writing real and fictional stories, and explore the question of whose stories can they tell?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a writer fails? Or when a publisher drops an author? What if a book is banned? Canadian writers George Elliott Clarke ("Where Beauty Survived"), Elizabeth Hay ("Snow Road Station"), Vincent Lam ("On the Ravine"), and Thea Lim ("An Ocean of Minutes") talk to Nam Kiwanuka about challenges that most writers face.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered if there is a right way to read? Do writers read differently than those who don't have to think about craft while reading? George Elliott Clarke ("Where Beauty Survived"), Elizabeth Hay ("Snow Road Station"), Vincent Lam ("On the Ravine"), and Thea Lim ("An Ocean of Minutes") discuss whether there is an art to reading. And is there a difference between reading and listening?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do writers write? What inspires new stories? George Elliott Clarke ("Where Beauty Survived"), Elizabeth Hay ("Snow Road Station"), Vincent Lam ("On the Ravine"), and Thea Lim ("An Ocean of Minutes") offer insights on what it means to write a story, whether it can be a political act, and if success can be a form of selling out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do writers write? What inspires new stories? George Elliott Clarke ("Where Beauty Survived"), Elizabeth Hay ("Snow Road Station"), Vincent Lam ("On the Ravine"), and Thea Lim ("An Ocean of Minutes") offer insights on what it means to write a story, whether it can be a political act, and if success can be a form of selling out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our review of The Agenda's week begins with how hard it is to get access to public information in this country.Then, is Canada is a post-national country and are some places here uninsurable? And, what's next for Raptors basketball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In his fiery new book, author and political economist Ricardo Tranjan makes the case that Canada doesn't have a housing crisis, but rather a housing market working exactly as intended. Rent hikes and eviction notices aren't the work of an invisible force - it's landlords funneling wealth from working class families and reaping massive profits. Tranjan makes the case for why it's time tenants organize, mobilize, and fight back.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Canada Day celebrations usually involve big fireworks displays, there are some who want fireworks banned or restricted. Cities like Brampton and Caledon have banned personal fireworks following a surge of complaints over their use. Others argue they're an important part of cultural festivities such as Diwali. We hear from both sides of the debate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was just four short years ago when the Toronto Raptors - and 1 million of their closest friends - celebrated their NBA championship with a parade for the ages. It all seems like part of the team's distant past. This year, they didn't even make the playoffs. It's led to big changes in the organization, on and off the court. What's needed to it get the team moving in a more winning direction? We ask freelance basketball journalist, Katie Heindl, the creator behind the "Basketball Feelings" podcast and newsletter; and Vivek Jacob, freelance sports journalist and staff writer for Raptors.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Next month, Tamils around the world will remember the 40th anniversary of Black July. In July 1983, anti-Tamil pogroms erupted in Sri Lanka's capital of Colombo and across the country, lasting a week and plunging the country into a 26-year-long civil war. As the conflict raged on, tens of thousands of people were killed, and it forced thousands more into exile including here in Ontario - home to one of the largest Tamil diasporas in the world. Host Jeyan Jeganathan speaks with members of the Tamil diaspora and looks back at the horrific events and how it has shaped future generations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2022 weather events accounted for $3.1 billion of insured losses in Canada. That's up from just $40 million in 2008. And in the last three years, house insurance prices in Canada have gone up 14 per cent. Is Canada becoming uninsurable? Do we need to change how we build homes and even where we build them? And what does this mean for the housing crisis? The Agenda examines the growing climate risk in this country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The summer season in Ontario brings with it rainstorms - and flooding. One common afterthought is the effect on our sewage systems, which can overflow and become a multi-thousand dollar problem. Steve Paikin talks to Barbara Robinson, better known as ,the sewer lady,, about how to reduce flooding and the costs associated with it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the past two decades, farmers in the Niagara Region have taken the issue of water scarcity into their own hands. Even though the region is surrounded by Lake Ontario, the Welland Canal, Niagara River and Lake Erie, getting water to tender fruit and grapes has always been a challenge and climate change is only exacerbating the problem. The Niagara Peninsula produces over 90 per cent of Ontario's tender fruit and according to local farmers and politicians, that could be at risk if investments in irrigation infrastructure are not taken seriously. Field reporter Jeyan Jeganathan takes a look at the race to irrigate Niagara.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Olivia Chow is Toronto's new mayor. Steve Paikin talks to Saeed Selvam, managing director of New West Public Affairs, and Sabrina Maddeaux, political columnist for the National Post, about what the newly elected mayor means for the Toronto, the issues that decided election, factors that contributed to the outcome, voter turnout, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Contemplating whether there's such a thing as a Canadian identity, and what it might be, has been a national pastime probably for as long as Canada has existed. And there's no way to talk about Canada or Canadian politics without taking regionalism into account. None of this is new, but amid pressures or circumstances, such as extreme polarization, could that malleable idea of Canada become too weak to hold it all together? We consider that with guests: Margaret MacMillan, author and emerita professor of International History at the University of Oxford, and University of Toronto; Ken Coates, Canada Research Chair in Regional Innovation at the University of Saskatchewan; Paul Wells, author of "An Emergency in Ottawa: The Story of the Convoy Commission;" Akaash Maharaj, Ambassador-at-Large for the Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption, and a Senior Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto; Daniel Bernhard, CEO of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship; and Lydia Petrovic, author of "Lost in Canada; An Immigrant's Second Thoughts."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Canadians talk about free trade, they're usually referring to the international context. Maybe that's because it's easier to figure out, than the Gordian knot of domestic trade barriers that have gone up over the decades. Lawyer Ryan Manucha makes a heroic effort to untangle it all, in his book, "Booze, Cigarettes, and Constitutional Dustups: Canada's Quest for Interprovincial Free Trade." The book won this year's Donner Prize for the best public policy thinking, writing, and research by a Canadian.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What governments know about each of us, what they do with that data, and how they make decisions based on it, is supposed to be available to citizens. It's a fundamental principle of democratic accountability. But as a recent series in The Globe and Mail demonstrated, that's not quite how it all works. The series is called ,Secret Canada,, and it raises many questions about how freedom of information works in this country, or more likely, how it doesn't work. For insight, we welcome Brooks Fallis, critical care & internal medicine physician; Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario Patricia Kosseim; and the investigative reporters behind The Globe and Mail's series, Secret Canada: Robyn Doolittle and Tom Cardoso.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recapping our week we look at whether Ontario cities need a night mayor to manage nightlife activities and revenues. Then, are Canadians living longer? And if they do, how can their quality of life be even better?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sqwish is far from any pick-up basketball game you've probably seen. There is no score keeping or rules, instead it's centred around silliness, fun, and being an important third space. Field reporter Jeyan Jeganathan profiles the drop-in basketball night for Toronto's queer, non-binary, trans community and really anyone who hasn't felt comfortable in a traditional basketball setting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cities seem to be filled with noise, and it's not just annoying - it can also be bad for our health. To inform us about the consequences of excessive noise, and what can be done about it, we welcome:Tor Oiamo, professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University; and Ingrid Buday, founder of No More Noise Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin talks to Ontario Liberal leadership candidate Ted Hsu - the current MPP for Kingston and the Islands - about his reasons for entering the race and his plans for the direction of the party.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the last few years, the number of Canadians living to 100 and beyond has reached record highs; now seen as the second-fastest growing age group in Canada. In the next 40 years, Canada could have nearly 100,000 centenarians. The Agenda explores the genetic and environmental factors that lead to these elite agers, the societal implications of these numberselderly, and asks whether there is a hard ceiling when it comes to how long humans can live.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Authors Akwasi Owusu-Bempah and Tahira Rehmatullah join Jeyan Jeganathan to discuss their book, ,Waiting to Inhale: Cannabis Legalization and the Fight for Racial Justice," which examines how the criminalization of marijuana harmed racialized communities in the U.S. and Canada, and ways to make the legalized cannabis industry more inclusive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephane Friday talks about how Indigenous players on NHL winning teams are giving young people in the community hope and much needed mentorship. Friday is the co-founder of Hockey Indigenous, a non-profit organization aiming to empower and promote Indigenous youth across Canada. Friday created Hockey Indigenous six years ago and has seen an explosion of Indigenous participation in hockey professionally and at the amateur level.See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.

The fastest growing area of tourism in Canada is Indigenous focused. One third of visitors to Canada want an Indigenous experience. For insight on this tourism sector, that's sharing with non-Indigenous people across Ontario the food, culture, history, and traditions that have been practised on these lands for thousands of years, we welcome Kevin Eshkawkoga, president and CEO, Indigenous Tourism Ontario, from M'Chigeeng First Nation on Manitoulin Island; and Neil Debassige, a producer on Sportsman Channel Canada's hunting and fishing program, "Fuel the Fire TV."See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.

Architect Eladia Smoke, and fashion designer Alyssia Sutherland of Ally's Ribbons talk about the change of mindset that needs to happen when looking at Indigenous creativity. Both are living in a different way than the world we occupy. They both are bringing in that knowledge to what they do.See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.

Hit with skyrocketing housing costs and above-guideline rent increases, tenants across Toronto have launched a collective rent strike which has now entered its second month. Nearly 200 residents at 33 King Street in downtown Toronto, as well as hundreds of tenants in Thorncliffe Park and Parkdale are withholding payments in response to corporate landlords hiking rent for repairs and renovations. Rent strikes have become more common in the last few years, but are they effective? Are landlords acting in predatory ways, or are the rent increases justified? We hear from both sides about the best course of action.See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.

Lawyer Marcus McCann, author of "Park Cruising: What Happens When We Wander Off the Path," talks to Jeyan Jeganathan about Canada's long history of park cruising and the "unbroken line" of police crackdowns that date back at least a hundred years. McCann explains the intersections of park cruising with the justice system, health epidemics, cultural norms, sexual consent, urban planning and why the subject continues to divide both heterosexual and queer communities. Is finding intimacy in parks still necessary given the prevalence of dating apps and queer bars?See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.

This CFL season marks a major milestone for the Argos. The team was founded in 1873. That makes it the oldest professional sports team anywhere in North America still using its original name. The Double Blue are 150 years old this year. Who better to discuss this than the most valuable player of last year's Grey Cup Championship, linebacker Henoc Muamba.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda this week assessed the housing platforms of the leading candidates for mayor of Toronto, and heard from some less often profiled candidates about how they'd do the job.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the depths of the Depression, nearly 100 years ago, a remarkable thing happened in Chatham, Ontario. A baseball team, comprised solely of Black players, won the provincial championship. In the process - more than a decade before Jackie Robinson broke the colour barrier in Major League Baseball - they did what might have once seemed impossible. Heidi LM Jacobs documents that story in her new book, "1934: The Chatham Coloured All-Stars' Barrier-Breaking Year." Jacobs, along with Deirdre McCorkindale. board member of the Chatham Kent Black Historical Society and an assistant professor of History at the University of Guelph, discuss this momentous event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When there are 102 candidates running for mayor of Toronto, it presents a significant obstacle to hearing all the voices that need to be heard. We aim to help by inviting three candidates for mayor who have earned the right to be part of the mix. Chloe Brown placed third in the mayor's race last October. She is currently project coordinator at Future Skills Centre; Anthony Perruzza, the current Toronto City Councillor for Humber River-Black Creek and a former member of the Ontario legislature;and Rob Davis, a consultant who was the first ever Black councillor in the old city of York and the newly amalgamated city of Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In February 2020, there was a happy-go-lucky little girl named Keira, who suffered a terrible fate. She was killed, and the murderer was her father, who did it as an act of revenge. Keira's mother and stepfather, palliative care physician, Dr. Jennifer Kagan and family lawyer, Philip Viater, join us to discuss the legal reforms they have pursued around domestic violence, in hopes that no other family will have to experience the anguish they have.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Assessing plans mayoral candidates have for housing in Toronto. With guests: Eric Lombardi of More Neighbours Toronto; Jay Pitter, principal at Jay Pitter Placemaking and planner in residence at the University of Waterloo;Sean Galbraith, urban planner with Galbraith & Associates; and Asquith Allen, director of policy and regulatory affairs at the Federation for Rental-housing Providers of Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fear, jealousy, anger. Name an emotion, and you can find an evolutionary reason why it exists. But why depression? What role does it play? Is it an adaptation that helped our survival, or is it a disorder? For insight, we welcome: Randolph Nesse, emeritus professor of psychiatry at the University of Michigan, and author of "Good Reasons for Bad Feelings: Insights from the Frontier of Evolutionary Psychiatry; Maryanne Fisher, professor of psychology at Saint Mary's University in Halifax; and Paul Andrews, professor of evolutionary psychology at McMaster University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the rise of Homo Sapiens to the fall of Rome and the birth of capitalism, it was germs that played a leading role in shaping human history, according to Jonathan Kennedy, author of "Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues." He discusses how the humble microbe toppled empires and won wars, and how COVID-19 will transform humans. Jonathan Kennedy teaches politics and global health at Queen Mary University of London.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our week in review begins with an analysis of how Ontario craft breweries are faring post-COVID. Then, does Ontario protect its zoo animals? How can cities be built with more civic appeal? A look at how various generations get their news and information. And, Jean Twenge discusses her book, "Generations."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, the Bank of Canada raised interest rates, again. That will be unpleasant news to households across the country. It's also a red flag because Canadians collectively carry the most debt of any G7 country. That was not always the case, and actually household debt has been declining elsewhere. Why does this matter to Canadians as a whole? We ask: Jim Stanford, economist and director of the Centre for Future Work; and Mike Moffatt, senior director at the Smart Prosperity Think Tank and an Assistant Professor at Western University's Ivey Business School.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands of sorely needed condo units have gone up over the past decade or more in this province. And given the housing crisis, everyone agrees we need more as fast as possible. But, for all the engineering wonders of some of these buildings - 50 storeys, glass and steel - do we need to think about making it all a bit more charming? For insight on how to grow cities with greater civic appeal, we welcome Mary Rowe, president and CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute; and longtime architecture critic and urban affairs columnist, Christopher Hume.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of us will never see a lion or leopard or giraffe in their natural habitat. But many of us, have seen them up close in a zoo. Sometimes that's in a big facility, such as the almost 300 hectares that's home to 5,000 animals in Toronto. Or, it's in a roadside location with a smaller or specialty assortment of wildlife. Either way, ensuring that the animals are well cared for is a concern for all. For insight, we welcome Dolf DeJong, president and CEO of the Toronto Zoo; Melissa Matlow, campaign director for World Animal Protection, Canada; and Kendra Coulter, professor in management and organizational studies at Western University and author of "Defending Animals: Finding Hope on the Front Lines of Animal Protection."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you care or not, the fact of your birth assigns you to a generation. And according to psychologist and author Jean Twenge's latest and most comprehensive book, whichever one it is, it's foundational to understanding how major shifts in our world shape us, in the broadest terms. Twenge discusses the book, "Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents - and What They Mean for America's Future."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the Medium Still the Generational Message?When Canadian media theorist and futurist Marshall McLuhan wrote his most influential works in the 1960s, it's hard to imagine he really envisioned our world as it is, in all its technological and social media complexity. Still, his notion that, ,the medium is the message, endures, and even invites us to consider how the evolution of the media ecosystem has rippled across, and perhaps even, shaped subsequent generations. For insights on whether the avalanche of media makes us better informed than we were in the past we invite, in order of generational seniority: from the baby boom: Suanne Kelman career journalist and professor of journalism, now retired; from generation X: Paolo Granta, associate professor of Book and Media Studies at the University of St. Michael's College in the University of Toronto; from the millennial generation: Noor Malik, a marketing professional; and from gen Z, TikTok content creator, Hazel Thayer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are more than 26 million people in the world today who are living as refugees; half of whom are children. Oftentimes, they live in exile, without a permanent home. What happens to them? Sarah Dryden-Peterson's book, "Right Where We Belong: How Refugee Teachers and Students Are Changing the Future of Education," takes on this topic. She's an associate professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the founder and director of Refugee REACH, which promotes research, education, and action for refugees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After surviving COVID-19 lockdowns, Ontario's craft beer brewers are facing a variety of hurdles that could put them out of business; whether it's debt, a recent jump in taxes, increased material costs on everything from cans to yeast, or continuing to work underneath The Beer Store monopoly. Some are succeeding with their suds. Others have been forced to sell, merge, or accept foreign takeovers in what some have described as an overcrowded beer market. The Agenda looks at the state of Ontario craft breweries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nate Erskine-Smith is one of those rare members of parliament. He considers himself a loyal Liberal. But he will vote against his party when he thinks the leadership is wrong. That's ensured two things: first, he'll never be in Justin Trudeau's cabinet, and second, he gets a lotta props from people who aren't necessarily Liberals. In any event, it's prompted Erskine-Smith to take a look at the vacant Ontario Liberal leadership post and in fact, he was the first candidate to toss his hat into the ring. He talks to Steve Paikin about his plans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Depending on how you measure it, about one in 10 people in Ontario live in poverty. Though not everyone knows what that, assumptions are sometimes made. Journalist Deborah Dundas, books editor at the Toronto Star, does know what that's like, having grown up in poverty. Her new book, "On Class," invites readers to learn why hearing the stories from those who live them can be transformative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yasir Naqvi has had some of the bigger jobs in cabinet: attorney-general, minister of community and social services, minister of labour. But like so many Liberal MPPs five years ago, he was a casualty of the province's desire to sweep the Grits out of power. A little over a year and a half ago, Naqvi made a comeback into public life, becoming the federal member for the same riding he represented provincially. Now, he's decided to enter the Ontario Liberal leadership race. He talks to Steve Paikin about his plans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands of Nova Scotians have been forced to evacuate and flee their homes as wildfires raged out of control this week. Meanwhile, smaller wildfires have been breaking out across Canada. What are the causes of these devastating fires? How natural are these natural disasters? In what ways are people affected by wildfires, and for how long? Three experts share their insights and first-hand experiences.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our week in review begins with a look at the special report on electon interference. Then, an update on the Ukraine-Russia war. Are bike lanes causing traffic conjestion? And, why are people feeling that they're missing out on reaching their life-stage milestones?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An anticipated spring counteroffensive by Ukraine is set to begin soon. The upcoming battle may play a decisive role in whether Ukraine's Western allies continue their support, as the two warring countries face increasing pressure to enter negotiations and end the conflict. The Agenda examines how Ukraine's resistance is holding up, Russia's war stamina, whether Ukraine's Western allies will lose political will to continue their support, other global tensions that could influence the outcome, Ukraine's eventual NATO membership, and negotiations towards peace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin talks to Calgary-based political analyst Jason Ribeiro about what Danielle Smith's majority government will mean for Albertans, the UCP's (United Conservative Party) power, which issues decided the election, voter turnout, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Traffic and congestion has come up a lot in Toronto's mayoral byelection. Some candidates are pointing the blame at bike lanes, arguing that they're the cause of traffic getting worse in this city. For insights on whether Toronto has implemented bike lanes in the best way possible, we welcome: Eleanor McMahon, former cabinet minister, and president and CEO of the Trans Canada Trail;Trevor Townsend, founder of Keep Toronto Moving; andAlison Stewart, director of ddvocacy and public policy for Cycle Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is a prevailing idea in municipal governments and among urban planners that "growth should pay for growth." That means that as the population grows, new infrastructure is needed, and those newcomers should be paying for that infrastructure. But is that the fairest way to go about it? To discuss whether development charges or property taxes should be funding Ontario's new infrastructure, we welcome: Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, Mayor of Burlington; Adam Found, manager of corporate assets at City of Kawartha Lakes, and a research fellow with the CD Howe Institute;Ene Underwood, CEO for Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area; and Alex Beheshti, urban planner and land economist at Altus Group Economic Consulting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a legal saga that spans more than two decades, all 10 Canadian provinces, including Ontario, have filed lawsuits against Canada's tobacco industry seeking a total of $500 billion in damages for tobacco-related health-care costs. It's the largest class action lawsuit in Canadian history by a long shot. And for the past fpour years, negotiations between the provinces and Big Tobacco have been taking place entirely in secret. Not one province has publicly released any information on those negotiations. No public documents, public statements or public involvement. In comparison, when the U.S. took Big Tobacco to court, within four years, they had reached a settlement, tobacco company documents were made public, and all the states involved had received funds. The Canadian Cancer Society, Canadian Lung Association, and Heart & Stroke have released a joint letter calling on Canada's premiers urging them to provide an update on the negotiations. Sarah Butson, who leads Advocacy and Public Affairs with the Canadian Lung Association, joins Steve Paikin to mark the WHO's No Tobacco Day and discuss the importance for the settlement to include tobacco reduction measures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author Rona Maynard talks about how her dog Casey enhances her life, the topic of her new book, "Starter Dog; My Path to Joy, Belonging and Loving This World."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Milestone timelines are changing and even disappearing, If the standard life-stage achievements for graduation, career, marriage, children, homeowning, and retirement created predictability and comfort, what happens when people don't meet those marks? Does it negatively affect their sense of self? Or are the outliers the new normal? How much does technology, religion, gender inequality, racial inequity, and a changing economy play into those milestones. What would it take to bring our ideas of social norms into the 21st century?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does your financial adviser tell you to hold onto your investments and never sell? Or that markets recover in the long run? Does your adviser always have an optimistic outlook? Portfolio manager and author John De Goey explores the hidden relationship between bias and financial markets in his new book, "Bullshift: How Optimism Bias Threatens Your Finances."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nothing matters quite as acutely for Canada's democracy as the integrity of its elections. For months now, Ottawa's been embroiled in controversy about foreign interference in the past, and whatever is still ongoing. The government appointed former governor-general David Johnson as a special rapporteur to look into all of this, and he issued his first report last week. For insight on that report, and what's needed to move Canada forward, we welcome:Richard Fadden, former director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service; Akaash Maharaj, Ambassador-at-Large for the Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption Affairs; Toronto Star national columnist Susan Delacourt; and Laura Stephenson, professor of Political Science at Western University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hamilton-Niagara hub journalist Justin Chandler provides an update on a new batch of Hamilton falcons, and how they continue to be a protected species.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review begins with reaction to last night's debate among candidates for mayor of Toronto. Then, what are the obstacles to getting big things built in Ontario; can laneway houses help with the housing crunch; and why is Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie making a bid for Queen's Park?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group of municipal councilors and community advocates are making the case that the health of Lake Simcoe is vital to its surrounding communities. But from development pressures to climate change, the challenges are many. Why is more investment needed, and should Lake Simcoe be treated similarly to any Great Lake? For insight, we welcome: Jonathan Scott, councillor for Ward 2 for the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury;Dave Neeson, councillor, Ward 3 for the Town of Georgina;Claire Malcolmson, executive director of the Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition; and Margaret Prophet, executive director of the Simcoe County Greenbelt Coalition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TVO Today Live, in partnership with the Toronto Region Board of Trade will host the Toronto Mayoral By-Election Debate at the Isabel Bader Theatre on Thursday, May 25 at 7 pm ET. Moderated by Steve Paikin of TVO Today's The Agenda, the leading candidates vying to become the next mayor of Toronto will debate affordability, housing, transit, access to services, and the city's prospects for economic growth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TVO Today Live and the Toronto Region Board of Trade present a mayoral debate with candidates Ana Bailão, Brad Bradford, Olivia Chow, Mitzie Hunter, Josh Matlow, and Mark Saunders. Steve Paikin moderates as they present their thoughts on Toronto's most pressing issues and share their plans for the city. Then, experts evaluate the talking points.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maple Leaf Gardens was built in less than six months. The CN Tower, three years. The Canadian Pacific Railway, four years. The Eglinton Crosstown is now at 12 years with no end in sight. What does that reveal about Ontario's ability to build big things? And what's changed from years past?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artists, musicians, and writers are getting ripped off, according to Cory Doctorow, co-author of "Chokepoint Capitalism." From Amazon and book publishing and Spotify and music to Google and Facebook and news media, big tech has ,captured culture,, creating modern day monopolies and ,chokepoints., Doctorow explains how these chokepoints work, and the current film and TV writer's strike and their concerns over AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are laneway houses, how are they zoned, and can their availability help alleviate the housing crisis plaguing Ontario cities. For insight, we welcome: Tim Parks, director of planning services, the City of Kingston; Gregg Lintern, chief planner and executive director, City Planning Division, City of Toronto; Christine Lolley, principal at Solares Architecture, a Toronto firm specializing in laneway houses; and Angèle Dmytruk, architect and partner at 3rd Line Studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It looks as if the mayor of Mississauga would like to become the premier of Ontario. Bonnie Crombie was once a federal Liberal MP. She's been the mayor of Ontario's third largest city for almost a decade. But now, it seems, she'd like to give provincial politics a try. Crombie announced today she's setting up an exploratory committee as a necessary first step to running for Ontario Liberal leader. She talks to Steve Paikin about her plans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2019, a Liberal Party vying for political power promised voters, if elected, they would plant a whopping two billion trees across Canada by 2031. The plan proposed would potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a major way. Now, eight years away from the deadline, a new report from Canada's environment commissioner says the federal government isn't even on track to get four per cent of the promised trees in the ground by then. As the spring planting season kicks off, we look at the goal, its potential effects on climate change, the resources required, and what's behind the delay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our review of The Agenda's week begins with a discussion of what would happen if the municipality of Peel Region broke apart? Then, how can becoming a police officer be made more accessible? And, what's in store for Mexico ahead of its election next year?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maybe there's a new litter of racoons in your garage. Or a scratching noise in the ceiling that makes you think squirrels. How about an all-consuming confrontation with a skunk? In cities and towns across Ontario, people and wild animals interact whether they want to or not. New York opted to hire a Rat Czar to oversee their biggest problem. Does something similar make sense for the critters we see in our cities here?welcome: Nathalie Karvonen, director of the Toronto Wildlife Centre; and Brad Gates, owner and president of Gates Wildlife Control.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

By law, the current and highly popular Mexican president Andrés Manuel Lopez Obrador cannot run for another term in next year's general election. And he's vowed not to try. Still, moves such as the changes to election law made recently by his government - but stymied by the courts - have critics worried that he's positioning his party to revive a kind of one-party rule that threatens Mexican democracy. For some insight, we welcome: Lorena Becerra, political analyst and the head of public opinion research for one of Mexico's leading newspapers, Reforma;  David Frum, staff writer at The Atlantic magazine; Gustavo Flores-Macias, professor of government and public policy at Cornell University, and the former director of public affairs with Mexico's Consumer Protection Agency. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Midwives in Ontario have argued for years that they aren't allowed to practice the full scope of their skillset. As Ontario's health-care costs rise, is it time to revisit the role of the midwife?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Almost 50 years ago, Premier Bill Davis's government created the Region of Peel to facilitate the delivery of municipal services in the increasingly urban areas of Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon. Now, with all three thriving in their own right, and amid nearly two decades of pressure from Mississauga to become a stand-alone municipality, the region could be on the cusp of divorce. For insights, we welcome: Patrick Brown, mayor of Brampton; Annette Groves, mayor of Caledon; and Alvin Tedjo, a city councillor in Mississauga.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin talks to three experts about how Ontario can better support people with intellectual disabilities. They weigh in on Ontario's plan to change the way developmental services are funded, a recent investigation launched by the province's ombudsman into cases of people with developmental disabilities stuck in hospitals, gaps in the delivery of culturally appropriate care, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government accepted the findings of the national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in 2019, yet Canada has failed to deliver on its commitments to fulfil the inquiry's recommendations. The House of Commons unanimously backed a motion in early May to declare missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls a national emergency. Would declaring a national emergency help achieve the actions necessary for reconciliation? Indigenous men are much more likely to be victims of homicide than Indigenous women; are they being overlooked? Does Canada need a separate inquiry into what's happening to Indigenous men and boys?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From calling on a papal apology for residential school abuse, to ending conversion therapy in Canada; online petitions have been increasingly present in digital space. But do they actually bring about change?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last month, Premier Doug Ford announced major changes in police recruitment including the elimination of tuition and post-secondary requirements. The provincial government aims to bring in more police officers by making it easier for people to become one. While some support these changes, other argue that post-secondary education is crucial in police reform. What is the difference between police training and education? Will more police officers be the solution to the challenges we face?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canada is known around the world for its multiculturalism and welcoming attitudes towards immigrants and refugees. In fact, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau characterized Canada as the first "post-national" state in 2015. Does Canada's reputation and narrative on migration match up to a real openness in society? Why do highly-qualified immigrants end up working low-skilled and low-wage jobs? As the housing crisis grows, will protectionist views towards immigration increase? The Agenda host Nam Kiwanuka moderates a panel at Toronto Metropolitan University to kick off the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Migration and Integration program's annual conference. The panel features three leading voices on immigration: Debbie Douglas, executive director of the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants; Goldy Hyder, president and CEO of the Business Council of Canada; and Naheed Nenshi, former mayor of Calgary and community builder at The Ascend Group.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fighting erupted in Sudan in mid-April, as rival generals looked to assert their authority over the country. Frantic efforts to evacuate foreign nationals, put the conflict on the international agenda. But, as the weeks have passed without a resolution, tens of thousands are displaced and the death toll is mounting. What will it take for the current violence to end? And what needs to happen for Sudan to be able to transition to a democratic civilian-led government?For insights, we welcome: Khalid Mustafa Medani, chair of the African Studies Program, and associate professor at McGill University, and Nisrin Elamin assistant professor of African Studies and Anthropology at the University of Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Using an earlier version of ChatGPT researchers were able to translate the private thoughts of human subjects by analyzing brain scans, including what they were seeing while watching a silent film. How is this possible? What does this growing ability to decode brain activity mean for understanding mental illness? And what are the ethical implications of being able to read minds? For insight, we welcome Marcel Just, a pioneer of this research.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In late April, the Haliburton Highlands Health Services announced it was cancelling emergency services in Minden and consolidating with the Haliburton hospital, approximately 30 minutes away. The closure is effective June 1. A grassroots group has formed and this week presented more than 16,000 signatures in support of reversing the decision to Queen's Park. To discuss why this measure is concerning residents of the rural town with population of 7,000 that swells during the summer cottage season, we welcome Patrick Porzuczek, spokesperson for Save Minden Ontario Emergency Room, and Dr. Alan Drummond, physician and emergency medicine advocate with the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Geoffrey Hinton, the "Godfather of AI," recently left Google warning of the dangers posed by AI. And thousands of AI researchers have signed an open letter calling for a six-month pause on AI development, which raises the sci-fi-like question: Does AI pose an existential threat to humanity? And from the printing press to the steam engine and the internet, is this technological moment any different than those in the past?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Loneliness isn't just unpleasant. It turns out it's also bad for your health and for social cohesion. What may have been a taboo topic prior to the pandemic is now higher on the list of social issues to solve. For some insight, we welcome Pete Bombaci, founder and executive director of the not-for-profit GenWell Project, that aims to be a Canadian-led, global human connection movement;David Kepes, CEO of CompanionLink, a registered charity that connects isolated people, particularly seniors, with volunteers for social connection; Miriam Amdur, founder of the 52 Friends Project, which is on a mission to reduce the stigma around loneliness and prioritize friendship; and Steve Joordens, professor of psychology at the University of Toronto Scarborough.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canada is well known for being sanctuary to 30,000 American slaves, desperate to reach the end of the Underground Railroad, north of their border. Much is also said of the tens of thousands of Canadians who donned blue uniforms and enlisted with Lincoln's Union army during the American Civil War. But, leading members of this country's political, media, business, and religious elite were conspiring to help the South win. This took the form of harbouring spies, financial assistance, terrorism, and even welcoming Lincoln's would-be assassin John Wilkes Booth. Julian Sher discusses his latest book, "The North Star: Canada and the Civil War Plots Against Lincoln."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario Minister of Education Stephen Lecce, joins Steve Paikin to discuss Bill 98, the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, and what it means for the education system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Ontario eduction, we want to reward students who work hard in their spare time to develop other skills such as playing a musical instrument, joining the choir, or becoming good dancers. But we also want to ensure that all kids, regardless of their circumstances, get a chance to experience those enriching activities, too. Can that be done? Can we have both merit and equity in public education?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario government has introduced Bill 98, the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, which gives the ministry more power over school boards. Mike Ramsay, school trustee for Waterloo Region District School Board and Cathy Abraham, president of Ontario Public School Boards' Association, join Steve Paikin to give their response to the bill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As high inflation sends record numbers of Ontarians to food banks, we look at the history of charitable organizations in Canada and their purpose today. How did places originally intended for temporary aid in the 1980s become permanent staples for those in need and increasingly the working poor? Experts examine where the responsibility for tackling food poverty should lie, when it comes to governments, charities, corporations, and citizens.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The coronation of King Charles III creates a new historical point for the British monarchy. To discuss the significance of the weekend's ceremonial and traditional events, we welcome Jennifer Robson, author of a novel "Coronation Year," set against the backdrop of Queen Elizabeth's 1953 inauguration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ottawa was the first municipality in Canada to declare an emergency due to homelessness, back in January 2020. Since then, it's only become worse. Kaite Burkholder Harris, executive director of the Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa discusses her findings from a new report on what needs to be done to address the emergency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canadian musical icon and cultural ambassador Gordon Lightfoot died this week at age 84. Music journalis Alan Cross and Maripos Festival president Pam Carter discuss his life and legacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is a testament to what's possible in this country, and to the strength and brilliance of an individual, that someone could be born a refugee in a camp in Germany after the Second World War and yet one day, sit on the Supreme Court of Canada. That seemingly impossible journey is the subject of a new film, called "Without Precedent: The Supreme Life of Rosalie Abella." To discuss the film, we welcome now retired Supreme Court justice Rosalie Abella; and the documentary's producer, director, and writer Barry Avrich.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The devastation of the opioid crisis has touched every part of this country, and so far, shows little sign of abating. Physician and Giller Prize-winning novelist, Vincent Lam, dissects the crisis at a personal and professional level in his new novel, "On the Ravine."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recent data shows the average scores of Grade 12 students have risen significantly in the past 15 years. Universities in Ontario have seen an increase in applicants with averages over 90 per cent. Experts have speculated that such a spike could be resulting from educational changes like de-streaming and the growth of online learning, a shifting perceived value of post-secondary education, or a new generation of tech-savvy students. Are students just smarter, or working harder? Is grade inflation damaging? If grades no longer distinguish students, what will?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Religion clearly plays a diminished role in Canadian society compared to even a few decades ago. But new polling suggests the reasons for that aren't entirely obvious, or what you might expect. In fact, it's not even clear that people connect God and religion as they once did. For insight, we welcome: Sarah Kathleen Johnson, professor of liturgy and pastoral theology at Saint Paul's University;Alyshea Cummins, instructor of religion in the College of Humanities at Carleton University; and Michael Higgins, inaugural Basilian Distinguished Fellow of Contemporary Catholic Thought at the University of St. Michael's College.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gordon Lightfoot wrote the soundtrack to a certain era of Canadian history. But his music and songwriting, while entirely of this country, transcended eras, genres, and international borders as one of Canada's first true global superstars. He left this world with tour dates still on the books, hardly slowing down even in his mid 80s. To reflect on that incredible musical legacy, we welcome: Pam Carter, president of the Mariposa Folk Foundation and the chair of the Festival Organizing Group; and Alan Cross, music journalist and host of the radio program "The Ongoing History of New Music," on Toronto FM radio station 102.1 The Edge.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario's latest housing bill is called the Helping Homebuyers, Protecting Tenants Act. But does it actually do enough to keep tenants in secure housing? The Agenda discusses the changes in the bill, especially to rental replacement bylaws. With guests: Tony Irwin, president and CEO Federation of Rental-housing Providers of Ontario; Carolyn Whitzman, housing researcher and Adjunct Geography Professor at the University of Ottawa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a landlord or tenant has an issue, they can apply for a hearing at the Landlord and Tenant Board. But for years now, the waitlist for a hearing has been many months long. Why is there still such a backlog? And what does it means for landlords and tenants seeking justice? For insight, we welcome: Varun Sriskanda, board member for the Small Ownership Landlords of Ontario;Geordie Dent, executive director of Federation of Metro Tenants Associations; Kathy Laird, retired human rights lawyer and adjudicator and a spokesperson for Tribunal Watch Ontario; Gloria Salomon, CEO of Preston Group and vice-chair of the Federation of Rental-housing Providers of Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's unimaginable to be found guilty in a court of law for a crime you did not commit. Or, imagine knowing you were innocent but you pled guilty anyway because that seemed like the best option. Kent Roach is a professor at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, and co-founder of the Canadian Registry of Wrongful Convictions. His new book catalogues the myriad ways that Canada's justice system makes such cases all too common. It's called: "Wrongfully Convicted: Guilty Pleas, Imagined Crimes, and What Canada Must Do to Safeguard Justice."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People around the world look to Canada as a pathway to a better life. They spend thousands of dollars to come here, often employing immigration agents to help navigate what can be a complicated process. But as the experience recently of some international students who are facing deportation shows, there are several ways the process can go wrong. For insight on how to safeguard people and the system from fraud, we welcome Jack Kim, partner at the immigration law firm, Fragomen; Kim Ly, founder and principal of Borders Immigration Consultancy; and Nicholas Keung, Toronto Star immigration reporter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The provincial government announced that Ontario will create its first-ever urban park in Uxbridge. Regarded as ,a major step forward for conservation and biodiversity protection in Ontario, by Minister David Piccini, the new provincial park will require collaborative effort from different levels of governments, conservation groups, and communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review examines plans for Ontario Place; whether Canada needs a wealth tax; and 10 dollar a day child care.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's certainly more beautiful to be surrounded by mature trees than endless concrete and traffic. But research now also shows it could well be better for both your mental and physical health. Marc Berman, professor of psychology at the University of Chicago, explains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fifty years ago, the province ambitiously built the Ontario Science Centre and Ontario Place. Fast forward a half-century later and the province's plan is to move the Science Centre to Ontario Place, and convert a large portion of Ontario Place into a private spa and waterpark. Is this the right use of public land? And has there been enough public input?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Public services cost money, but do governments levy enough taxes to pay for them?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Generation Squeeze founder Paul Kershaw got a rise out of Baby Boomers recently, by stating the generation didn't pay its fair share of taxes. He joins Steve Paikin to defend his stance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Election night for most mayoral candidates is exciting but not necessarily a nail-biting experience. John Tory won in Toronto by almost 250,000 votes. Bonnie Crombie won in Mississauga by almost 80,000 votes. But in Waterloo, the winning candidate squeaked in with a 321-vote margin. Safe to assume, election night in Canada's technology triangle was a little more tense. Here's the new mayor of Waterloo, Dorothy McCabe, with more on her first half year in office.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For almost two decades, Andrea Horwath worked at Queen's Park, mostly criticizing governments for not doing what she thought they ought to be doing. But now, Horwath is the mayor of Hamilton, and for the first time in a very long time, is now responsible for implementing an agenda. Let's find out how that's going. In the home of the Tiger Cats, here's Mayor Andrea Horwath, coming to us from her office at Hamilton City Hall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've heard from the mayors of some pretty big cities from across the province. Time now to hear from one of our smaller cities. Matthew Shoemaker is the new mayor of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, population 72,000.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confession time here. Those of us who work in journalism often look askance at members of our trade who decide to trade in their reporter's notebook for politics. I mean, don't journalists have the best jobs? And why would someone want to leave that for politics, a profession even more disrespected than journalism? Let's ask the new mayor of Canada's capital city, Mark Sutcliffe, who joins us from his office at Ottawa City Hall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

60 years ago this month, Lester Pearson's government was elected, with low expectations. What followed was five years of one of Canada's most impactful administrations ever. Author Antony Anderson sits down with Steve Paikin to reflect on the legacy of Lester Pearson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been a year since the Ontario government signed an agreement with the federal government to start on the path towards $10/day childcare. How's the plan going so far? The Agenda discusses the successes and challenges of the program.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Highlight from our week of programming.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalist and podcaster Sarah Marshall discusses her popular podcast, "You're Wrong About." It's a deep dive into familiar cultural touchstones and figures, from the Satanic Panic to Monica Lewinski, and re-examines the way they were portrayed in the media. She discusses how this revisionist take on recent history has become more common and whether media is doing a better job at getting at the truth behind the story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On April 10, 1944, after enduring years of back-breaking slave labour, 19-year-old Rudolf Vrba became the first Jew to escape Auschwitz. He would go on to try to warn the world about the horrors being carried out within the camp's barbed wire fences. His detailed account, the first ever, would land on the desks of Roosevelt, Churchill, and the Pope. While it would fall on many deaf ears, it would save 200,000 lives. Rudolf eventually settled in Canada. Author Jonathan Freedland's new book, "The Escape Artist," describes it all. He talks to Steve Paikin about the atrocities, the escape, and how he and the world wrestled with his revelations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leaked Pentagon documents say hackers working with Russia's spy agencies claim to have disrupted operations and inflicted costly damage to Canada's pipeline infrastructure. How verifiable are the claims? Canada's national cryptologic agency warns the threat of a cyber hack could cause real damage and is "one of the most serious scenarios envisioned" because of the Russian war in Ukraine. What could happen if hackers succeed? What safety measures are the oil and gas sector implementing? How vulnerable is Canada to these attacks?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Historian Rochelle Bush tells Jeyan Jeganathan about her team's work to find and restore Black freedom seekers' graves in St. Catharines' Victoria Lawn Cemetery. It's one of several ongoing projects in Ontario to honour and protect historic Black burial grounds, many of which have been neglected.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How we buy items has changed, but the way companies make them has changed as well. Manufacturability - or how easy it is to make a product - is prioritized over functionality. Companies cut corners to keep prices low, such as swapping quality materials for synthetic fabrics or using basic stitching patterns. And tech devices don't come with repair tools. When devices break, they're often intentionally impossible to repair without going back to the same company. We explore Canada's descent into consumer madness, the right to repair, how to avoid microtrends and make sure the stuff we buy serves us for a longer time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the wake of the arrests in the Noval Morrisseau art fraud, what becomes of the legacy of the artist who is at the centre of this case? Musician Kevin Hearn took us through his journey from Morrisseau purchase to fake art revelations in the TVO documentary, "There Are No Fakes." He is now on a mission to restore authenticity and integrity to Morrisseau's legacy. So too is his lawyer Jonathan Sommer. What are the steps toward this important work?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are millions of people flocking to hi-tech immersive shows like Van Gogh Alive, Frida Kahlo, King Tut, and Shakespeare's The Tempest? Or cultural monoliths like The Office and Stranger Things? Does this form of art lessen the value of classic art, or does its popularity and Instgram-ability help introduce new generations? And what's going on when best-loved Hollywood shows are codified this way? We ask art critics for their take.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Thunder Bay Police has given credit where credit is due: they say Jamie Kastner's TVO documentary "There Are No Fakes" was an "inspiration" to breaking apart the criminal ring responsible for flooding the international art market with fake Norval Morrisseau art. But they also want all of Kastner's cutting-room-floor footage and anything else that can bolster their case. Jamie Kastner discussed why filmmakers should not be involved in police work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Almost 10 years ago, news broke that the terrorist group Boko Haram had kidnapped 300 schoolgirls in Nigeria. They were neither the first nor last taken, and for many, the whereabouts of these young women remains unknown. Journalist and filmmaker Mellissa Fung could not look away from their stories. She told them in her 2021 documentary, "Captive." And goes deeper still in her new book, "Between Good and Evil: The Stolen Girls of Boko Haram."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 50,000 Canadians died of COVID-19. That was a lot of misery for a lot of families, and for some families, reminded us that child and adolescent grief can be quite different from that experienced by adults. We got another reminder of that in the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry's book ,Spare,, in which he describes the aftermath of his mother, Princess Diana's tragic and senseless death. For insights on this topic, we welcome Cheryl-Anne Cait, associate professor in the Faculty of Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University and expert in understanding child and adolescent grief.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time ever, a Canadian is going to the moon. It's part of the four-person NASA mission called Artemis II, that will return humans to lunar orbit for the first time in more than 50 years. We welcome Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen to talk about the mission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With over 64 per cent of Canadians playing video games on a regular basis, it'd be safe to say that Canada is a nation of gamers. But video games are more than just a form of entertainment and escape, they can serve as great learning tool to motivate, engage, and inspire. We speak to three experts to find out more about game-based learning, responsible gaming as well digital parenting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cases of femicide in Canada have increased each year since 2020, reaching nearly 200 in 2022. Advocates are demanding the government to recognize femicide as a distinct crime. What are the most common femicide threats? How did the pandemic worsen the crisis? Is enough being done to prevent women and girls from being killed? We take a closer look at the latest findings and learn more from experts working in this field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The majority of COVID-19 restrictions and safety measures have been lifted in Ontario. The temporary paid sick days program expired at the end of March. Data shows COVID and flu vaccine uptake is low. Local public health units are calling on the provincial government to provide sufficient, predictable and timely funding in the face of inflationary pressures and service backlogs. Restrictions have loosened across the province's long-term-care homes. Is Ontario prepared to handle the next viral surge of COVID-19? How about the next pandemic?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review begins examining why some big time drug cases collapse.Then, Canadian Academy Award-winning filmmaker Daniel Roher on his documentary, "Navalny;" Nobel Prize-winning journalist Maria Ressa on standing up to dictators; and the influence of China's in the Middle East.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Scarborough to Cambridge University, Yale Law School, and even the prime minister's office, Omer Aziz always felt like he was caught between two worlds and never quite felt at home in either. In his memoir, "Brown Boy," he interrogates identity, family, religion, race, and class, and considers the question he could have never asked in his youth: Was assimilation ever really an option?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over a thousand people signed a letter, including Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak, calling for a pause on AI development. But a number of recent scientific breakthroughs, especially in medicine, have been led by AI. What is the promise of AI in advancing science and medicine? Will it help usher in a new era of science? Will it replace human scientists? And could AI, in the future, produce a scientific breakthrough or theory that no human can understand?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How is China's influence reorganizing the alliances and geopolitics of the Middle East?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three years ago, Toronto-born filmmaker Daniel Roher couldn't have imagined he'd be documenting the epic search for the Russian state assassins who tried to fatally poison Vladimir Putin's harshest critic Alexey Navalny with a military-grade chemical nerve agent. Since then, the opposition leader has miraculously recovered, returning to Russia to face a corrupt justice system, and received more than a decade in prison. Meanwhile, Roher's film has won an Oscar for best documentary feature. He joins Steve Paikin to discuss the film and its protagonist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are those who, when they stop to think about people incarcerated in this province, don't want anything to do with them. That is not the case with Phyllis Taylor. She is a certified life and mediation coach who has worked with Ontario's Ministry of Correctional Services for the past 10 years and she's counselled thousands of people behind bars. Her new book is called, "The Prison Lady: True Stories and Life Lessons from Both Sides of the Bars."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2021, Toronto Police held a press conference to announce the results of Project Brisa, a massive investigation into an alleged drug network, which saw $61 million in drugs seized. It was the largest bust in Toronto Police history, but last month, all charges were stayed amid allegations investigators misled the court to obtain a wiretap warrant. This is not the first case to collapse before proceeding to trial. We discuss what goes into preparing cases like Project Brisa, why they sometimes fall apart, and what lessons can be learned from the way police handle major investigations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario government has promised a fully funded fare integration system across the GTHA by the end of the year. This would allow transit riders to pay one fare as they boarded a bus in York region, hopped on the GO Train, then grabbed the Toronto transit vehicle. It's a proposal that's been promised by governments for generations. How feasible is it? And what would it entail? Tranist consultant Reese Martin, provides insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Associate Minister of Transportation Stan Cho talks to Steve Paikin about sharing the role with Caroline Mulroney, fare integration across the GTHA, restoring the Northlander train service, the status of the Eglinton Crosstown rapid-transit line in Toronto, and why Ontario can never bring infrastructure projects to fruition on time and on budget.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once taken by the promise of social media, journalist Maria Rassa has witnessed authoritarians in her native Philippines and around the world harness this new technology to sow hate, fear, lies, and ultimately destroy democracy. The Nobel Peace Prize-winner tells Steve Paikin why she is still speaking out, even under the looming threat of a life behind bars. Her new book is called, "How to Stand Up to a Dictator: The Fight for Our Future."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canada's population grew by more than one million last year, almost all of that thanks to immigration. Half of the new immigrants chose to settle in Ontario. But amid housing shortages and a strained health-care system, is this the destination they're expecting? And is the province doing enough of the right things to make this work - for them, and for those already here? For insight, we welcome: Alfred Lam, executive director of the Centre for Immigrant and Community Services; and Board Chair for OCASI, the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants; Deena Ladd, executive director of the Workers' Action Centre; Mike Moffatt, senior director at the Smart Prosperity Think Tank and an assistant professor at Western University's Ivey Business School; and Mikal Skuterud, economics professor at the University Of Waterloo and director of the Canadian Labour Economics Forum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ahmed Hussen is Canada's minister of housing, and diversity and inclusion, and the Liberal MP for York South-Weston. He discusses what the federal government is doing to esnure safe and affordable housing for all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clinical psychologist Lisa Damour discusses her latest book "The Emotional Lives of Teenagers." In it she lays out how to support teens through this critical stage of life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are so many teenagers experiencing anxiety and depression? For insight, we welcome Kathy Short, executive director, School Mental Health Ontario; Annie Kidder, executive director, People for Education; Kwame McKenzie, CEO of the Wellesley Institute and professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto; Jo Henderson, director of the Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth and Family Mental Health at CAMH and executive director of Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario; and Mahalia Dixon, youth engagement specialist at CAMH.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently, a contingent travelled to Toronto as part of the First Nations Land Defence Alliance to push back on mining development in the province. In part they are reacting to excitement over a massive deposit dubbed the Ring of Fire, more than 400 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay, that is rich in nickel, chromite, and other critical minerals. While a new deal between the province and two First Nations could be the beginning of a permanent road to the site, not all First Nations communities support this development. For insight we welcome: Chief Rudy Turtle, Grassy Narrows First Nation; Cecelia Begg, head councilor of Big Trout Lake First Nation; Chief Wayne Moonias, outgoing chief of Neskantaga First Nations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Experts and advocates on both sides of the debate hoped an ongoing legal and environmental standoff between the Michigan and Canada over Enbridge's Line 5 pipeline would be on the table for President Biden's meeting with Prime Minister Trudeau. It didn't make the cut, and with the environmental review for Line 5 extended to 2025, the replacement of tunnels in the Straits of Mackinac has been delayed further. Enbridge's senior vice president of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability talks to Steve Paikin about Line 5's role in Canada's energy transition and economy, the safety of the Great Lakes, Indigenous rights, and global energy supply.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since the Ring of Fire's mining potential was discovered in 2007, several companies have tried to find the path to make the opportunities there a reality. To bring us up to date on why the mineral deposit's potential and why it's so important, we welcome Frank Smeenk, CEO of KWG Resources.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United States and Canada recently announced amendments to the Safe Third Country Agreement which apply across the entire length of the shared border, meaning asylum seekers who are apprehended attempting to cross at unofficial ports of entry will be turned back in both directions. To discuss the changes, we welcome experts in Canada-U.S. relations, an in the history of migration and domestic policy. What does this mean for the relationship between the two countries? What is Canada's role in refugee migration from the Western Hemisphere. How will this affect asylum seekers?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He was once perhaps the most influential lobbyist in the country. Prime ministers, premiers, and more than a thousand chief executives listened attentively to his advice. In fact, at one point, someone referred to him as the ,de facto prime minister of the country,, and it wasn't meant as a compliment. Thomas D'Aquino chronicles his time trying to influence public policy in Canada in his new memoir, "Private Power, Public Purpose: Adventures in Business, Politics, and the Arts."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this month, the Thunder Bay Police and the OPP seized more than 1,000 purportedly fake Norval Morrisseau artworks. Fraud related to the Indigenous artist's work was explored in TVO's documentary, "There Are No Fakes." Northwestern Ontario Hub journalist learned how owners of Morrisseau's art can authenticate it and she shares that information with us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a nationally televised address: "When there's an opportunity to avoid civil war through dialogue, I, as prime minister, am taking a time out for dialogue." Such words highlight the seriousness of the situation, after massive, protracted protests in Israel just won a delay to a controversial overhaul of the judiciary. It's drawn attention to the domestic issues involved, and from allies on the outside looking in. For insights into this crisis, we welcome Yaakov Katz, editor-in-chief of the Jerusalem Post and Janice Stein, the Belzberg professor of Conflict Management and founding director of the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our week in review begins with a look at what's happening for students, parents, and teachers when kids avoid school. Then, what would be the ramifications for a foreign agent registry in Canada. How do anger and resentment feed into divisive politics? And should psilocybin, the psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms, be legalized?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colorado recently voted to legalize psilocybin, the psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms. And as more clinical trials show promising results for psilocybin-assisted therapy, there has been a push in Canada to expand medical access. But is enough known yet about how safe they are? And how effective?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a single dose, or sometimes two, people with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, end-of-life distress, OCD, trauma, and even anorexia are finding relief in psilocybin-assisted therapy. What is happening during these experience? How do magic mushrooms change the brain? And why does it lend itself to such a wide range of mental illnesses?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author Glory Liu discusses her book, "Adam Smith's America: How a Scottish Philosopher Became an Icon of American Capitalism."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Much of contemporary political culture is infused with anger and resentment. Is there a difference between these two emotions? Do they reflect an ideological divide withing contemporary politics. Can anything be done to assuage these realities?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How well is the province doing at ensuring students with disabilities get the kind of education they deserve? For insight, we welcome David Lepofsky, the volunteer chair of the AODA Alliance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anxiety Canada estimates that at least 25 per cent of elementary and secondary school students will avoid school at some point. And the COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened this issue. What's going on when students chronically refuse to go to school? How can parents and schools support the mental health and academic needs of students. We ask a mental health expert, a parenting expert, a social worker, and an education expert for insights and solutions. With guests: Sheryl Boswell, executive director, Youth Mental Health Canada; Alyson Schafer, family counsellor; Nathan Core, president, Ontario Teachers' Federation; Deepy Sur, CEO, Ontario Association of Social Workers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The alleged Chinese interference in elections has been the hot topic in Canada for the past while. Now the federal government has started laying ground for a foreign agent registry. How does this affect diasporas when political tension arises? How can foreign interference be distinguished from healthy homeland engagement? What will Canada's democracy and approach to multiculturalism evolve to in the future?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not every regime achieves democracy through its collapse, some do so through strength. And in his book, "From Development to Democracy: The Transformation of Modern Asia," Joseph Wong argues that the latter might be more likely for regimes like China. He discusses what the West gets wrong about democratization in Asia, and what the transition to democracy could look like in modern authoritarian regimes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our week in review begins with a look at the Ontario government's budget. Then, does Ontario need more land to build on and should that land be in the Greenbelt? Will a new road help bring mineral-rich Ring of Fire closer to being productive? And, understanding Pakistan's financial crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered what happens to ships once they've reached the end of their lives? For many in the Great Lakes, that place in Marine Recycling Corporation in Port Colborne, Ontario. Marine Recycling has recycled more than 100 vessels for their steel. Field producer Jeyan Jeganathan talks to the founder Wayne Elliott about how long it takes to recycle a ship, why shipbreaking is considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, and how his company competes with shipbreakers around the world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The city of London has a bold new plan to address its worsening homelessness and housing crisis. It calls for a "whole of community" system response that involves building more than a dozen 24/7 shelter hubs and 600 high-support housing units in the next three years. Under the new plan, unhoused people will have "low-barrier" access to housing, basic necessities (such as food, showers, laundry facilities), acute and primary health care and other supports. But for plan to work London will need financial backing and political will from the provincial government. Mayor Josh Morgan joins Nam Kiwanuka to discuss the feasibility of the plan, how the city will combat NIMBY-ism, and the governance model for the system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Ford government reveals its provincial budget, opposition parties give their reaction to its spending plans. Guests: Catherine Fife, NDP MPP, Kitchener-Waterloo and NDP Finance and Treasury Board Critic; Stephanie Bowman, Liberal MPP, Don Valley West, Liberal Finance Critic; and Mike Schreiner, Green Party of Ontario Leader, Green MPP, Guelph.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ford government has laid out its plans for Ontario's finances. But do the numbers really add up? We ask Peter Weltman, who heads up the independent, non-partisan financial accountability office of Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario has been confronting 40-year-high inflation, understaffed hospitals, sizable household debt, and a housing crisis. How is the Ford government responding? Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy unpacks the provincial budget and the PC party's plan for Ontario's finances.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The thing about families is that at one point or another, we've all both hated and loved those we're related to. But rarely has it been described as Kelly S. Thompson does in her new memoir, "Still, I Cannot Save You." It's about her relationship with her sister, the expectations we have for our siblings and how our wrongs don't need to define us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many factors contributed to the collapse first of the Silicon Valley Bank, and then others up to and including Credit Suisse. But what most people here want to know is: will it affect Canada's banking system? For insight, we ask Laurence Booth, the CIT Chair in Structured Finance at The University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the great debates happening in Ontario these days is whether there's enough available land on which to build new homes to accommodate a growing population. Or do further tracts of the Greenbelt need to open to make that happen? We'll debate the issue with Jane Fogal, local and regional councillor for Halton Region; Rob Horne, former planning commissioner for the Region of Waterloo; and Chris Spoke, founder and CEO of the digital product studio August, and a Toronto-based real estate developer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the better part of 15 years, the Ring of Fire, the biggest mining prize in a generation, or more, has confounded those who would develop it. One of the key issues is how to get to and from the remote area. But the province may have presented a solution with a recently announced agreement on the terms of reference for a First Nations-led plan for a permanent road to the Ring of Fire. To help us understand the significance of this deal, we welcome: geoscientist Kristan Straub, CEO of Ring of Fire Metals, a Canadian mining subsidiary of Australia's Wyloo Metals, and a member of Henvey Inlet First Nation; Virginia Heffernan, principal of GeoPen Communications, and author of, "Ring of Fire: High Stakes Mining in a Lowlands Wilderness;" and Stan Sudol, communications consultant and mining strategist who runs the website, The Republic of Mining.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

it's been two decades since Ontario's Consumer Protections Act was updated. The province is doing that work right now, For insight on what should be included, we welcome: lawyer Dennis Crawford, who founded Ontario HVAC Scam.com; and Daniel Tsai, lecturer on technology and business at the University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University, and editor of Consumer Rights.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 227,000 Cubans fled Cuba last year and this number continues to rise. In fact, Cuba is experiencing its largest exodus of people in a 12-month period since Fidel Castro's revolution of the 1950s. What's causing this mass exodus? And can conditions change for this island country of 11 million people? Guests: Sebastian Arcos, associate director, Cuban Research Institute at Florida International University; and Karen Dubinsky, professor, Global Development Studies and History at Queen's University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pakistan is grappling with an economic and political crisis. Economically, the country is dealing with double-digit inflation and struggling to repay its multi-billion-dollar foreign debt. On the political front, former PM Imran Khan is being charged with corruption, while his supporters protest and clash with police. How did Pakistan get to this point, and how can the country overcome this crisis? Guests: Amber Shamsi, director, the Centre for Excellence in Journalism at the IBA University, Karachi; Mariam Mufti, political scientist, University of Waterloo; and Sadia Malik, economist, York University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Volkswagen announced it will build its first ever overseas battery "gigafactory" in St. Thomas, Ontario. The German automaker now joins five other major auto manufacturers creating a foothold in this province. This is after federal and provincial ministers crisscrossed the globe, enticing them to make their electric cars in Canada. Deals potentially worth billions of dollars and thousands of jobs are being inked, with Ontario minerals possibly acting as the raw materials. What could this investment mean for the province, and the Ford government's wider plans for electric vehicle production?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bank of Canada has a large role in keeping the cost of living within affordable ranges for Canadians. But how does it achieve this? Ontario Hubs affordabily journalist Kat Eschner recently travelled to the Ottawa headquarters to find out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review begins with a look at why labour trafficking is increasing in Canada. Then, what's the plan for York Region's wastewater? Is Ontario as democratic as it could be? How do people engage in personal acts of corruption such as tax evasion? And, how libraries are a vital part of social infrastructure.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades the demise of the library has been predicted. But in 2023, is the library now more relevant than ever? From makerspaces to outreach programs and media literacy opportunities to podcast and video equipment, the library has evolved into a community hub. The Agenda examines the new role of the library, with:Shamichael Hallman, Loeb Fellow at the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University and co-founder of, Libraries as Bridges; Sabrina Saunders, CEO & Board Secretary at the Blue Mountains Public Library; Mary Chevreau, CEO of the Kitchener Public Library; Vickery Bowles, City Librarian at the Toronto Public Library.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The pandemic and lockdowns we've heard many times have created a "mental health tsunami." But a new study that looked at 31 different countries showed the mental health effects of the pandemic were minimal. How is this possible? The Agenda examines this study with two of its author, Brett Thombs and Danielle Rice, and the University of Toronto's Kwame McKenzie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently, we focused on the state of democracy in India, which is going through some rather undemocratic times. But we got an email from a viewer who said, we in Ontario shouldn't be so smug, that the state of our democracy could be much improved as well. So, we thought, why not look into that too. For insights, we welcome: House leader Paul Calandra, who's the Progressive Conservative member for Markham-Stouffville; Peter Tabuns, former interim leader and New Democratic Party MPP for Toronto-Danforth; Janet Ecker, former Ontario PC Party cabinet minister; and Martin Regg Cohn, Ontario politics columnist for the Toronto Star.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ford government's plans for development in York Region include upgrading wastewater infrastructure to move millions more litres of water out of the Lake Huron watershed, and eventually down to Lake Ontario every day. Moving large quantities of water between watersheds poses significant environmental threats to the Great Lakes, and potentially breaks the terms laid out in an international agreement between U.S. states and Canadian provinces.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research reveals most Canadians are unaware that labour trafficking is a major issue across the country. But Canadian authorities recently shut down an international labour trafficking ring operating in York region and across the GTA and rescued 64 Mexican nationals who were being exploited. Steve Paikin talks to experts about what labour trafficking entails, why this issue flies under the radar, sweeping changes to the Temporary Foreign Workers Program, the pandemic's impact, and policy recommendations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to Statistics Canada, the underground economy was worth about $68 billion in 2021. For context, that's about what Ontario spends on health care every year. For a big picture view on side deals and ordinary evasions Canadians engage in, we welcome anti-fraud consultant Vanessa Iafolla; Michelle Gallant, professor in the University of Manitoba's Faculty of Law; and Noah Arshinoff, founder and managing director of ACT International Consulting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly five years ago, the federal government became ensnared in corruption allegations in what came to be known as the SNC-Lavalin affair. Over the past few months, controversy swirled in Ontario about invitees to a stag-and-doe reception held by the premier. Canada's place on Transparency International's corruption perception ranking was unchanged this year, at just 14th. For insight into what Canada needs to do to improve that, we welcome: Akaash Maharaj, ambassador-at-large for the Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption; Garry Clement, who spent 34 years with the RCMP investigating organized crime; and James Cohen, executive director Transparency International Canada.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Award-winning writer, poet, and actor, Cliff Cardinal discusses his latest play, "The Land Acknowledgement, or As You Like It." It delves into the relationship between Canada's Indigenous community and the settlers, as well as the state of the reconciliation process in Canada.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Britain in the 1990s was a cultural behemoth, producing bands as memorable as Oasis, Blur, and the Spice Girls, while also giving rise to the New Labour Party under Tony Blair. It was also a period of "unparalleled hedonism," according to journalist Dylan Jones, who chronicles this period known as Cool Britannia in his new book, "Faster Than a Cannonball: 1995 and All That."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our week in review begins with a look at barriers to running for elected office. Then, why are so many pandemic pets now being abandoned. Teen these days are not learning how to drive. Why not? And, a look at the state of democracy in India.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before Covid-19, what are called "zoonotic diseases" were hardly the stuff of ordinary conversation. That changed, of course, as we all brushed up on how diseases in bats could or could not jump to humans. Similar questions have cropped up lately about the Avian flu, and whether we learned the lessons of the pandemic well enough to react quickly for the next time. To get some insight on that, The Agenda welcomes Shayan Sharif, Professor and Acting Dean at the University of Guelph's Ontario Veterinary College; And Jason Nickerson, Humanitarian Advisor to Canada for Doctors Without Borders.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the depths of pandemic lockdowns and social distancing, many people, desperate for something good, sought out and adopted pets of all kinds. Now, those puppies and kittens are all grown up, and sadly, some are reportedly winding up far from being treasured family members. With more on this: Kathy Powelson, Executive Director of Paws for Hope Animal Foundation; Phil Nichols, Chief Operating Officer of the Toronto Humane Society; And Camille Labchuk, Executive Director of Animal JusticeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elon Musk paid about 44 billion U.S. dollars to buy Twitter. Whatever else people think about that, many questioned whether it was a good investment. Erin Kelly of Advanced Symbolics Inc. explains why she thinks it was likely worth every penny, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ignoring problems, as we all know, does not make them go away. That's painfully true when it comes to money matters, where making bad choices can be very costly. Shannon Lee Simmons is a certified financial planner. She founded the New School of Finance and writes books that tackle the everyday challenges people face managing their money. Her new book is: "No-Regret Decisions: Making Good Choices During Difficult Times."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every few years the calls go out: candidates wanted, of all types and stripes, to run for elected office federally, provincially, and municipally. It's actually pretty remarkable when you think about it. Anyone who wants to put their name forward can, just like that, even though probably 90% of the people that do are going to lose. To take the plunge, and try to get the job requires a ton of effort, sacrifice, and more. With us now on what's actually involved in running for office: Todd McCarthy, the PC MPP for Durham; Amber Morley, Toronto city councillor for Ward 3, Etobicoke-Lakeshore; Chloe Brown, who ran for mayor of Toronto in the last municipal election; And on the line, Shawn Micallef, contributing columnist at the Toronto Star and co-founder of Spacing magazine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For generations - beginning probably in the post-WW II era - turning 16 meant one thing above everything else: getting your driver's license. And while that's still true for many teens, it's apparently not the rite of passage it once was. And there may be consequences for us all because of it. To help explain why this is happening: Kylee Bowman, who leads the Youth Advisor program at the Traffic Injury and Research Foundation; Constable Sean Shapiro, from the Toronto Police Service, who focuses on traffic safety education; And Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice president of Government and Community Relations at CAA, the Canadian Automobile Association, for South Central Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent study out of the United Kingdom tracked women's spending habits and accurately identified the symptoms of ovarian cancer, based on the customer's purchases. It's a level of tracking that people often balk at, feeling all too surveilled in this technological era. But, could this tracking save lives? Joining the discussion: one of the leads on that study, James Flanagan. He is an associate professor or, as they say in the UK, a reader, in epigenetics and data science at Imperial College London; Bio-infor-matician Emma Bell, who is a postdoctoral research fellow at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre; And Sunil Johal, the David and Ann Wilson professor in public policy and society at Victoria University at the University of Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recent media reports have alleged ongoing foreign interference in Canada's elections. Who is interfering and what is the Trudeau government going to do to address this? For insights, we welcome Toronto Star Ottawa Bureau Chief Tonda MacCharles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With more than one billion people casting a vote, elections in India are often lauded as a "festival of democracy." Yet, both Freedom House and the V-Dem Institute have downgraded India's status as a democracy - from "free" to "partly free" and from "electoral democracy" to "electoral autocracy," respectively. Some issues in question are legal discriminatory practices against Indian Muslims and other minorities, and the recent censoring of a new BBC documentary on Prime Minister Modi. How has this affected India's standing as the world's largest democracy? We ask: Shekhar Gupta, editor-in-chief, ThePrint; Neeti Nair, historian, University of Virginia; Vivek Dehejia, economist, Carlton University; and Sanjay Ruparelia political scientist, Toronto Metropolitan University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When there's a serious altercation between the police and civilians, who steps in to make sure there's no criminal offence? The Special Investigations Unit is a civilian agency that oversees and investigates whether a criminal offence has occurred. Experts discuss the role of the SIU and whether it is doing enough to hold police accountable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julia Washington Berry - a tollkeeper on James St. in the 1800s - is one of the Black Hamiltonians honoured this year for Black History Month. Hamilton-Niagara Hub journalist Justin Chandler looked into her life and in process found out some surprising things about the contributions of Black people in the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's the boards strategy for ending discrimination? Then, what's the latest on detecting and treating long COVID? How can the Ontario Liberal Party renew itself? And, writer and film critis Thom Ernst on his new memoir.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a consecutive 15 years of running the province, the Ontario Liberal Party now finds itself in third place in the last two elections, with only eight MPPs. Historically, this is the weakest the party has been in nearly 80 years. Deep in the political wilderness, the Liberal party must now decide where it went wrong, what it stands for, and what its goals are. In the lead up to the annual meeting, we invite party insiders to discuss the future of the Liberal brand in Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The news has been full of stories about major ethical missteps at every level of government by Canadian politicians. We discuss the purpose and usefulness of ethics watchdogs. What power do they hold and do their rulings and punishments have any real impact on the behavior of elected officials?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial planner Shannon Lee Simmons provides insight into how to prepare for a recession from a personal finance perspective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For long-time TVO viewers, Thom Ernst is a familiar face, as the host and producer of Saturday Night at the Movies. And while he continues to be an astute film writer and critic, the book he's just written doesn't have much to do with the silver screen. His memoir, "The Wild Boy of Waubamik," chronicles the sexual abuse he suffered at the hands of his adoptive father. We welcome him back to TVO tell us the story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A thriving capitalist economy depends on competition, But to listen to Andrew Cameron's podcast, "Monopolies Killed My Hometown," that's not what's happening here. It goes deep on why competition isn't what it once was or could be. Tp explain more, we welcome Andrew Cameron, co-founder of CAMP, the Canadian Anti-Monopoly Project.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It can be pulmonary. It can be neurological. It can set off autoimmune issues. Long Covid can be many things. Should we no longer see it as a single issue? Is this catch-all term now an obstacle to research and finding effective treatments? Is trying to research and treat long covid like trying to research cancer, than than the individual types? The Agenda examines the mystery of long covid and how to help those struggling with lingering symptoms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin Davis spent his childhood climbing the rungs of hockey in Canada. He made it to major junior hockey in the OHL. He won a memorial cup with the Ottawa 67s. He played professionally overseas. In his book, "Conflicted Scars: An Average Player's Journey to the NHL," he writes, "the game of hockey is broken, it leaves scars inside us we keep hidden., From the Kyle Beach sexual assault settlement with the Chicago Blackhawks to Akim Aliu's memoir, confronting discrimination in hockey, Davis reflects on the moment hockey culture is being faced with and how a lifetime of hockey left its mark on him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last month, the Ontario Ministry of Education ended its supervision of the Peel District School Board, restoring governing powers to the elected Board of Trustees. The board was placed under supervision following reports of systemic discrimination, including anti-Black racism and Islamophobia, as well as governance issues at the school board. We discuss the end of the supervision and whether the PDSB is on the right track in its effort to combat discrimination.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world has just observed the one-year anniversary of Russia's illegal attack on Ukraine. Accurate estimates are hard to come by, but the estimates are that 200,000 Russian soldiers, 100,000 Ukrainian soldiers, and 30,000 Ukrainian civilians have died. For an assessment of where things stand and what's needed to bring the war to an end, we welcome veteran journalist Diane Francis, who has visited Ukraine dozens of times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lawrence Hill's "Beatrice and Croc Harry," is a novel for tweens that's full of fantasy, adventure, and wordplay with underlying themes of segregation, racism, identity and belonging. The award-winning Canadian author talks to Nam Kiwanuka about why he chose to write a children's book, how he wove in those themes, and how the approach differs from crafting adult fiction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A shortage of Black-led and Black-serving social infrastructure spaces in north Etobicoke Scarborough where Somalis predominantly live has led to the creation of the Somali Centre for Culture and Recreation. Now all the group needs is a permanent location to serve the community. TVO's diversity reporter Vicky Mochama discusses the progress on that goal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review begins considering the fate of the Line 5 pipeline. Then, why can it be harder for adults to make new friends? Why are more permanent residents to Canada not becoming citizens? And what is the history of blackface in Canada?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good friends are among the greatest gifts we get in life. But the more we age, the harder it can be to meet friends and make connections. Are platonic relationships undervalued in our society? Is it harder for men to maintain friendships? Can Gen-Z no longer make friends at work? Four experts share their insights on these questions and talk friendship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this month, we had a discussion on the effort to preserving the Negro Creek Road sign and Black heritage in rural Ontario. Tonight, two community organizers share stories about the Black pioneers in Grey County and why they want more people to learn about this history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It may come as a surprise to some, but Canada has a long and deep history with blackface. To take us through that history, we welcome Cheryl Thompson, associate professor of Performance at Toronto Metropolitan University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canada set ambitious new immigration targets recently. But numbers just out from Statistics Canada suggest that while the country may attract plenty of newcomers, it doesn't seem to be doing such a good job keeping them. Daniel Bernhard is the CEO of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, tells us more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly one year ago, Putin launched an invasion in Ukraine that made the world wonder if a third world war was on the horizon. This week, Putin's anniversary speech indicated that he shows no signs of easing up, and he announced Russia's suspension of its participation in the New START nuclear arms treaty. On the same day, President Biden gave a speech in Poland assuring Ukraine that it will continue to have support from the U.S. We welcome Ian Garner, author of "Stalingrad Lives: Stories of Combat and Survival," and "Z Generation: Into the Heart of Russia's Fascist Youth," to discuss Putin's speech and whether there are any signs that the war will end.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Provincial data shows that Black or racialized students graduate less often and don't achieve the same educational outcomes as white students. At the Windsor Essex Catholic School Board and other across the province, education coaches support Black, African, and Caribbean students to ensure they meet their academic goals. A coach and student join us to discuss what more can be done to increase equity in education delivery.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An ongoing standoff between the U.S. State of Michigan and Canada over Enbridge's Line 5 will likely be on the agenda for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's meeting with President Joe Biden in March. Experts in Michigan, Calgary, Quebec, and Ontario discuss developments related to ageing pipeline, what the two leaders should address, the environmental transition underway in Canada and abroad, the safety of the Great Lakes, the ripple effects disruptions to Line 5 could have, all against a backdrop of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and its impacts on global energy supply and markets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just like many other cities in Ontario, Hamilton is gripped with a housing crisis. Hamilton's leaders have been called on to support low-income and unhoused residents by addressing issues such as encampments, warming centres, and the cost of living - and that's just in the past month. Hamilton-Niagara Hub journalist digs into the numbers and the people behind them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review begins with the bombshell story of Toronto's mayor declaring his intent to resign. Then, debating sports betting in the province; is artificial intelligence on the verge of becoming conscious. And, assessing the track record of international human rights enforcement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems like technology and artificial intelligence are making more headlines with chat bots and algorithms making new discoveries almost daily. What's next? And are we prepared for a world that uses artificial intelligence? Sinead Bovell, futurist, and founder of WAYE, a tech education company, joins us to discuss what the future will look like, the potential challenges and how we can get ahead of them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seventy-five years ago, in the shadow of the Second World War, countries put their collective heads together to write a common international moral language. What resulted was the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - fundamental moral principles each and every human being was entitled to. Since then, enforcement and guaranteeing rights has sometimes been difficult, and consensus has often been hard to find. Critics wonder if human rights complaints too often come from Western mouths, and if the definition "human right" has been expanded to its detriment. Supporters of the movement say there have been major victories and that change is incremental. The Agenda debates whether the international human rights movement has become ineffective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"The Underground Railroad: Next Stop, Toronto!" traces the story of the secret route of safe houses into Canada and offers new insights into the rich heritage of the Black people who made Toronto their home before the Civil War. For insights, we welcome the book's co-author Afua Cooper, Killam Research Chair at Dalhousie University.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As you can imagine, Toronto was a very different place in 1894. But if you think it was staid, or homogenous and bland, Carolyn Whitzman's new book tells a tale that might challenge that assumption. It is a real whodunnit. She talks to Steve Paikin about "Clara at the Door with a Revolver: The Scandalous Black Suspect, the Exemplary White Son, and the Murder That Shocked Toronto."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario is all in on sports betting. And with billions in wagers and millions in revenue already, the advertising battle for your money is fierce. But is it already undermining the love of the game? We'll debate that tonight with Brian Masse, NDP MP for Windsor-West; Chelsea Rodrigues, problem gambling counsellor at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare; Paul Burns, president and CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association; and Deirdre Querney, registered social worker with the City of Hamilton's Alcohol, Drug & Gambling Services, and co-creator of Brain Connections, a project to share information about gambling and the brain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty years into teaching happiness, Dacher Keltner has now found his answer: find awe. He discusses his book, "Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life" and explains why we need it and how we can find more of it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ilya Sutskever, the chief scientist at OpenAI, the company that created ChatGPT, has said today's technology might be "slightly conscious." Google engineer Blake Lemoine claimed that Google's AI LaMDA was "sentient." Is it? Could AI become conscious in our lifetime? And beyond if we can create AI sentience, should we? MIT's Max Tegmark, author of "Life 3.0," and others, debate the future of AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Toronto Mayor John Tory resigned on Friday putting the city in election mode just months after his re-election. We discuss what happened, and what happens next. With former city councillor nominee Sira Agrell, planner Jennifer Keesmat, and Globe and Mail columnist Marcus Gee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Currently playing at the CAA Theatre in downtown Toronto "Things I Know to be True" tells the deeply moving story of a family struggling to stay together in a rapidly changing world. We welcome two of the actors who star in this incredible play: Seana McKenna and Tom McCamus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda's week in review begins looking at the rise of online exploitation of children. Then, talking to kids about about anti-Black racism; how economists untangle data; and a conversation with political scientist Francis Fukuyama about liberalism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On January 17, Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation became the first Indigenous community in Ontario to announce the discovery of potential burials near a former residential school. Since the 2021 discovery of unmarked graves in Kamloops, B.C., hundreds of residential schools have become sites for investigation. But how are those done? And why is it important that these excavations be Indigenous-led and survivor-driven? Northwestern Ontario Hub journalist Charnel Anderson has been looking into this.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau presented provincial and territorial leaders with an offer of $46.2 billion over 10 years for health care, which fell below their expectations. We discuss the proposal and whether it will fix our ailing health-care system with Marieke Walsh, senior political reporter with the Globe and Mail, and Dr. Michael Gardam, board chair of HealthCareCAN and CEO of Health PEI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About half of Canadians make a budget. Of those people, 20 per cent use a digital tool to budget and 10 per cent are more likely to make progress on their debt. That's leaves the other half of us relying on self-discipline to stay on top of our financial circumstances. Why is talking about money so tricky and why is budgeting so hard for us to do? To help us understand, we welcome Kingsley Chak, senior vice president of deposits, savings and investments at Scotiabank; Stephanie Wolfe, Wolfe Collective Wealth, an accredited financial counsellor and self-identified "best financial friend" who works predominantly with HENRY (High Earning Not Rich Yet) women, who make greater than $100,000; and Shay Myers of Finance for the Culture, a licenced financial educator who works primarily with people between 22 and 45 years of age who are still figuring out financial stability.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You've probably heard economics referred to as "the dismal science." It's also widely said that you can make the numbers say whatever you want. Still, in policy, in elections, in everyday life, what the numbers say has consequences. Whether it's GDP or employment rates or inflation, economists weigh in, policymakers act and the rest of us wonder what's what. To help us understand what stats really mean, we welcome Armine Yalnizyan, economist and Atkinson Fellow On The Future Of Workers; Trevin Stratton, national leader and partner, Economic Advisory, Deloitte Canada; Benjamin Tal, managing director and deputy chief economist, CIBC; and Kaylie Tiessen, economist, Unifor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Francis Fukuyama is one of the world's best known political philosophers. He talks to Steve Paikin about his latest book, "Liberalism and Its Discontents."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Almost a year into the war between Russia and Ukraine, the question on the table is, how important is public's support of the war and is it holding? We ask: Elbridge Colby, author of "The Strategy of Denial: American Defense in An Age of Great Power Conflict," and co-founder and principal at the Marathon Initiative think tank; Joan DeBardeleben, Carleton University Chancellor's professor, and Jean Monnet Chair in politics and society in Russia and the European Union; and Seva Gunitsky, associate professor of political science at the University of Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Black History month is about celebrating Black heritage. But for the community group fighting to restore the Black settlement in the Negro Creek Road area, recognizing and memorializing Black history has been an ongoing fight. Steve Paikin speaks to community organizers and descendants tonight about their story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For generations, Black parents have 'the talk' with their kids - a conversation about the risks associated with being Black in this society. What's important when it comes to introducing children to systemic racism and everyday aggression? How has this evolved overtime? And do all parents share this kind of responsibility?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What would it take to reboot Canada's relationship with China? Is it even possible, with Canadians in Chinese custody, the Huawei extradition case pending, to say nothing of events in Hong Kong? We examine the case for and feasibility of a new foreign policy with the Middle Kingdom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This past summer, Russian president Vladimir Putin won a referendum to remain in office until the year 2036. Having already put his indelible stamp on Russia, what does Putin want to do with all that time and opportunity? Steve Paikin speaks to Dmitri Trenin, the director of the Carnegie Moscow Center, a think tank and regional affiliate of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It used to be that supply and demand applied to workers and wages within Canada. But globalization has changed that, argues economist Jeff Rubin. When the whole world is your market, there is never a dearth of workers willing to do the same job for less money. On the Agenda, he lays out his arguments for how free trade ruined the middle class, the topic of his new book, "The Expendables: How the Middle Class Got Screwed by Globalization."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doug Ford promised to create incentives for more registered nurses and personal support workers in Ontario. But what does it take to attract people to study for the jobs needed in health care? The Agenda discusses how to train people for the right jobs, and what role the government plays in getting people into post-secondary institutions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, Premier Doug Ford officially declared that COVID-19's second wave has hit Ontario. Raywat Deonandan is a Global Health epidemiologist and associate professor with the University of Ottawa's Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences. He talks to Nam Kiwanuka about what we can expect to see in the coming weeks and whether Ontario is on the right track in its approach to the current situation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda this week looked at why urban dwellers are seeking to live in smaller communities; considered how policing might evolve; checked in with some American expats after the U.S. presidential debate; and heard the case for citizens helping to bolster democracy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Personal support workers have had to adjust to a new reality as the COVID-19 pandemic has worn on. But what about those who were in the midst of their training to become PSWs? Southwestern Ontario Hub journalist Mary Baxter spoke to some students about their experiences, and what drove them to seek the uneasy road of caring for ill patients in the first place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin speaks to the editor and contributors of the new book, "Constitutional Democracy Under Stress: A Time for Heroic Citizenship." They discuss the fragile state of democracies around the world, the existential threats they face, and the "civic serum" needed to cure what ails them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda examines the federal Liberal government's latest salvo as they go after web giants such as Google and Facebook, pledging to impose new taxes and regulations on the companies. All this while Canada's media landscape continues to shrink. Fenwick Mckelvey, an associate professor in Communication Studies at Concordia University, provides context.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is it like to be an American living in Canada in one of the most contentious times in political history for that country. Americans living in Canada discuss the pending election, social justice movements, and the COVID-19 pandemic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalist and psychologist Maria Konnikova reveals what poker taught her about luck, skill, and decision-making in everyday life, the topic of her new book, "The Biggest Bluff: How I Learned to Pay Attention, Master Myself, and Win."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Protests over police brutality that started in May continue to make headlines as protestors continue to make the case for defunding or abolition. Do the police still have a role to play in keeping the public safe? To discuss this, The Agenda welcomes former RCMP officer Chad Haggerty; London police chief Stephen Williams; Fareeda Adam, staff lawyer at Black Legal Action Centre; and Akwasi Owusu-Bempah, assistant professor, Department of Sociology at the University of Toronto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report from Citizen Lab warns about the risks posed by algorithmic policing. What does this technology mean for law enforcement in Canada? To provide context, we invite Ryan Prox, an adjunct professor at Simon Fraser University's School of Criminology, and Officer in Charge of Crime Analytics for Vancouver Police Department; Cynthia Khoo, research fellow at the Citizen Lab; and Kate Robertson, a criminal lawyer at Markson Law and a research fellow at U of T's Citizen Lab.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Torontonians have been leaving the city for years, in search of more affordable housing options and more space. So, is the wave of people moving out of the urban core during the COVID-19 pandemic any different? The Agenda examines what this recognized pattern could mean for the future of the city and the communities that are apparently being inundated with urban ex-pats.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Science and sacred knowledge don't usually go hand-in-hand. But botanist and medical biochemist Diana Beresford-Kroeger is forging a path built on their collective wisdom, which she believes could help lead the way out of the growing climate crisis. She joins Steve Paikin to share her vision that's outlined in her latest book, "To Speak for the Trees: My Life's Journey from Ancient Celtic Wisdom to a Healing Vision of the Forest."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Katie O'Connor, manager of podcasting at TVO, discusses news seasons of Word Bomb, OnDocs, and #onpoli, and announces a new series in celebration of TVO's 50th birthday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will an unsettled United States affect Canada, especially with the election looming. Then, what's behind the current surge in COVID-19 cases. And, what's the progress toward a Canadian vaccine?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new federal Rural and Northern Immigration pilot is helping to encourage new Canadians to live and work outside of the Ontario's bigger cities. But some newcomers want to be in more established centres where friends and relatives have settled before them. The advent of COVID-19 is making rural communities more attractive due to fewer cases and more employment opportunities. Ashley Okwuosa, an assistant editor at TVO.org, discusses how this program and others are working to help newcomers settle in Ontario.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harnarayan Singh is a trailblazer in the hockey world but you don't know him from his scoring or stick handling. Instead of tuning in to Hockey Night in Canada, thousands of Sikh hockey fans turn to Punjabi Hockey Night in Canada, to hear Singh's play-by-play. He discusses his career and book, "One Game at a Time: My Journey from Small-Town Alberta to Hockey's Biggest Stage."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the global race to find a vaccine, is Canada well-positioned to ensure its citizens will be inoculated as quickly as possible? What will happen to poorer countries in this race? To discuss these issues, The Agenda welcomes by Alan Bernstein, president and CEO, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research; Jason Nickerson, humanitarian affairs advisor, Doctors Without Borders; and the Toronto Star's Alex Boyd.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Science journalist Latif Nasser discusses his latest Netflix documentary series "Connected," in which he travels the world, exploring the fascinating connections between seemingly disparate ideas and objects such as migratory bird patterns, musical frequencies, and lunar bacteria. Nasser is also director of research for WNYC's Radiolab.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the United States heads into an election the possibility of increased instability looms large. Some have even used the term civil war. The Agenda asks: What would that mean for Canada? What are the dangers posed by a more unstable America? And how can we prepare?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amid the backdrop of rising inequality, the belief in merit has lead to condescension among the winners and a harsh sense of humiliation among those left behind. This is destroying the common good, according to Harvard philosopher Michael Sandel. He makes the case for a new way of thinking about success and failure in, "The Tyranny of Merit: What's Become of the Common Good?"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guaranteed annual income or a basic income is a policy idea that's been considered for decades. Under the previous government, Ontario undertook a partial pilot project to see how it could work. But the arrival of this pandemic, and the introduction of CERB (Canada Emergency Response Benefit) has accelerated the conversation around whether it's an idea whose time has come.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just days after the province declared a state of emergency for this COVID-19 crisis, Michael Sabia argued in the pages of the Globe and Mail that now is the time for governments to take bold action to reshape the economy. Six months in, are governments getting it right? Sabia, the director of the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto, and chair of Canada's Infrastructure Bank, discusses this with Steve Paikin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a couple months of fewer COVID-19 cases, Ontario's numbers are trending upwards, particularly in Ottawa, Peel, and Toronto. The Agenda discusses what we know about the spread and why these cases are increasing in number.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hospitality makes up a large part of the economy in Ontario, and few industries have been hit harder throughout the pandemic. Patio season brought a reprieve to restaurants, but with cases rising and cold weather stopping people from eating outside, the next few months could be even harder. The Agenda discusses the challenges to this industry and what could be done to save it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shelby Lisk, TVO's journalist covering Indigenous issues, discusses the unique challenges facing Indigenous people in Canadian journalism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Industry insiders describe what it takes to get Ontario's $2 billion film and TV industry back on track. Then, how the stock market differs from the economy. And, can child care in Ontario be reformed?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair discusses her newest work, "A Suitable Boy," a captivating BBC miniseries, premiering at the 2020 Toronto International Film Festival. The series is based on Vikram Seth's epic novel of the same name. Nair's revious work include "Salaam Bombay," "Mississippi Masala," "Monsoon Wedding," and "The Reluctant Fundamentalist."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just as film and TV production marked its best year in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic caused hundreds of sets to shut down in March. ACTRA Toronto's Alistair Hepburn, FilmOntario's Cynthia Lynch, and Halfire Entertainment's Marla Boltman discuss whether Ontario's $2 billion business can bounce back, what protocols must be in place to ensure safety of actors and crew members, and what opportunity might lie ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canadian-American, singer, songwriter and composer Rufus Wainwright discusses his latest offering "Unfollow the Rules." And his foray into opera, growing up in a musical family (he's the son of legendary folk musicians, the late Kate McGarrigle, and Loudon Wainwright III), writing music in a politically fraught time, and why creating music is his greatest joy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1995, the newly elected Ontario government led by premier Mike Harris found itself embroiled in a full-blown crisis. Indigenous protesters were locked in a confrontation with the OPP at Ipperwash Provincial Park in southwestern Ontario. By the time the dust had settled, a demonstrator named Dudley George had been shot and killed, by an OPP officer who was eventually charged with criminal negligence causing death. What are the lessons and legacies of this conflict?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This summer, Leslyn Lewis was catapulted from political obscurity to a star candidate in the federal Conservative leadership race; the first woman of colour to compete for that top job. Steve Paikin speaks to the lawyer and academic about her campaign, how she's breaking Tory stereotypes, racism, and why she believes social conservatives deserve a seat at the table.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been a great year for the stock market. But it's been a terrible year for the economy. How does that make sense? Steve Paikin talks to Frances Donald, managing director, Global Chief Economist & Global Head of Macroeconomic Strategy for Manulife Investment Management; and Brian Milner, freelance business and economics writer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As each day passes, more and more Ontario students are back to hitting the books - in person or online. With us now for a wide-angled look at this re-opening phase: Caroline Alphonso, education reporter for the Globe and Mail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to re-opening school, unions disagree with the Ontario governments over class sizes, ventilation, and whether the reopening plan violates the province's own health and safety rules. In fact, the dispute is headed to the Ontario Labour Relations Board. Last week we heard from the minister of education. Now, we welcomes Sam Hammond who represents more than 80,000 Elementary Teachers; Harvey Bishoff who represents more than 60,000 secondary teachers; and Liz Stuart who represents more than 45,000 Catholic school teachers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted many Ontario families to turn to homeschooling for the first time. But do they know what they're getting into? To help Ontarians better understand what homeschooling entails, Steve Paikin speaks with a parent who's spent the past 17 years teaching her children at home, a homeschooling advocate, and a psychologist who specializes in learning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Childcare in Ontario is the most expensive in Canada. The system has been broken for a long time, according to experts, and the pandemic has only exacerbated the challenges. The post-COVID path forward will require great investment and reforms of the childcare sector. We examine the issue from a sociological, economic, policy, and labour perspective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parents across the province are choosing to homeschool their children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Southwestern Ontario Hub journalist Mary Baxter discusses the benefits and drawbacks of children spending a year learning at home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's review of our programming includes a look at how federal, provincial, and local politicians have fared over the summer under the duress of a pandemic. Then, evaluating how Canada and Ontario will recover economically from the COVID-19 crisis. And, a look at how children and youth have been affected in terms of mental health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin speaks to the newly minted leader of the federal Conservative Party of Canada about his vision for the country and why he thinks he should be the next prime minister.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.