The Big Story

The third Monday of January has often been called "Blue Monday" - but the winter blues aren't just limited to one day of the year.Canadians like to pride ourselves on how we brave the cold months, but we may have a lot to learn from how Scandinavian countries approach things.Host Kaitlin Lee speaks to Kari Leibowitz, psychologist and author of How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark, Or Difficult Days about how to embrace the season, instead of just staying in survival mode. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show, In This Economy?!The headlines just two weeks into 2026 haven't fallen short of anything abysmal, especially centered around the happenings of US President Donald Trump. And although geopolitical uncertainty usually doesn't help the markets, Canadian stocks have continued to see record highs.Host Mike Eppel speaks to Andrew Pyle, senior investment advisor and senior portfolio manager at CIBC Wood Gundy to discuss the dos and don'ts of investing during volatile times. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

More than 12,000 people have reportedly been killed over the past several weeks of anti-government protests across Iran - including one Canadian, according to Foreign Affairs.Meantime, US President trump has vowed to take action against the Iranian regimes if the death and corruption continues amid the protests.Host Mark Day speaks to Maral Karimi, professor at Toronto Metropolitan University and author of The Iranian Green Movement of 2009: Reverberating Echoes of Resistance. The two discuss Iran's complex socio-political history, the power of women-led protest, and the potential danger amid US intervention in Iran. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

AI-generated sexualized images of women and children started appearing across X beginning late 2025. These images, created by user prompts on the Grok AI tool, showed women and children in various stages of undress and sexualized poses. Some reports claiming minors appeared in transparent bathing suits.Governments in Europe and South America promised full investigations. Malaysia and Indonesia banned the use of Grok. Meanwhile, the Canadian government has made it clear it won’t ban X, while pointing towards proposed amendments to Bill C-16 in hopes of safeguarding Canadians - but critics say, its not enough.Host Cristina Howorun speaks to technology author and self-described Muskologist Paris Marx to discuss Elon Musk's apparent tolerance of cyber sexual harassment in the name of profit, and what steps the Canadian government should take to better protect Canadians. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

In 2016, the Canadian federal government recognized the opioid crisis as a public health emergency, yet 10 years later, thousands of Canadians die from opioid toxicity every year.Health Canada committed $17 million to research projects and harm reduction initiatives aimed at substance use prevention in late 2025, but one problem that's hard to put a dollar figure on to fix is stigmatization and stereotypes surrounding safe consumption sites - which Ontario closed nine of last year.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Dimitra Panagiotoglou, the Canada Research Chair in the Economics of Harm Reduction and associate professor at McGill, to discuss her recent study on the relationship between crime associated with supervised consumption sites, and how Canadians can approach nuanced conversations surrounding substance use. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

The Alberta separatism movement isn’t new, but this most recent resurgence seems a little more potent. That's in part because of the passage of Alberta’s Bill 14, which has made it arguably easier for citizen-led initiatives to end up on referendum ballots.And the question of Alberta sovereignty is likely to end up on a ballot by the end of the year. The Alberta Prosperity Project got the green light from Elections Alberta for its question,' Do you agree that Alberta should cease to be a part of Canada to become an independent state?' in December 2025. The group now about four months to gather about 177,000 signatures to its petition.Host Cristina Howorun speaks with Dr. Barry Cooper, a political scientist with the University of Calgary and a long-time proponent of Alberta independence about why some Albertans want to secede from Canada, what happens next and how Ottawa can put some of those concerns to rest. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

What were once mildly-concerning threats against the sovereignty of Greenland, have now come into clear focus in the aftermath of Nicolas Maduro's arrest.US President Donald Trump openly admitted he's governed by his own morality rather than international law, sending shockwaves around the world in fear of the future of NATO.Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Stephen Maher, author and journalist, to discuss the uphill battle the world stands against Trump's geopolitical ambitions, and what position Canada should be taking amid renewed annexation threats. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

2025 was no walk in the park for investors, homeowners, or the ordinary Canadian alike on the economic front, and a little over a week into 2026, and it seems like this year isn't looking any better.Host Mike Eppel speaks to James McCann, Senior Economist at Edward Jones to discuss what Canadians can expect from ongoing trade talks between Canada and the US, how the arrest of Venezuela's President, Nicolas Maduro, will affect Canada's oil sector, and potential interest decisions from the Bank of Canada. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

It's been quite the start to 2026, from the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, to further peacekeeping efforts for Ukraine in France. And although Prime Minister Mark Carney has been trying to keep up with the chaos, Canadians can't help but feel anxious about the future of our sovereignty, safety, and international relations. Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks to Glen McGregor, political correspondent for CityNews, to discuss Carney's handling of US President Trump's aggressive pursuit of Greenland, the potential ramifications to Canada's oil sector in the aftermath of the events in Venezuela, and the significance of Carney's upcoming trip to China. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

A traumatizing, air travel experience is no stranger to the everyday Canadian. But it seems the TikToks and online posts of complaints seem to do little in terms of garnering real and sustainable change from our aviation sector. The federal government recently granted more access to Middle Eastern airlines to fly into Canadian airports in hopes of creating competition. It comes in response to a 2025 Competition Bureau report that called for less restrictions on foreign investment. Host Maria Kestane speaks to John Gradek, aviation expert and professor at McGill University to discuss what changes Canada's aviation industry should implement to restore consumer trust in air travel, and what progress has been made since the 2023 federal commitment of improving the air passenger protection regulations. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Flooding is becoming a not-so-rare occurrence in British Columbia, but is climate change the only reason for it? Host Nima Rajan speaks with Dr. Younes Alila, professor of forest hydrology and watershed management at the University of British Columbia to discuss what’s really behind the major flooding events in BC, and what needs to be done about it. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Today marks 5 years since insurrectionists took to Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, to riot at the word of out-going President Donald Trump. The attack claimed the lives of five people, including a sixth who was shot by police. More than 100 officers were injured. On the first day of his second presidential term, Trump pardoned more than 1500 people in connection to the attack.Five years later, the Trump Administration carries on as it grapples with internal conflict, Epstein revelations, and a newly-sparked takeover of Venezuela. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Aaron Ettinger, political science professor at Carleton University to discuss how January 6th 2021 has shaped the identity of American politics, and how cracks within the MAGA movement continue to develop. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

It comes every year - but what's to blame for this year's influenza season severity?Several strains are circulating across Canada, with healthcare professionals scrambling to treat one of the leading causes of death in this country. And with the U.S.'s upcoming withdrawal from the World Health Organization later this month, virus and vaccine-related research will soon become scarce for the countries who depend on the data - including Canada.Host Nima Rajan speaks to Dr. Joss Reimer, former President of the Canadian Medical Association and former Chief Medical Officer for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. The two discuss how Canada's healthcare system needs to diversify its science research partners, and what Canadians can do in the short-term to help protect themselves and others. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Happy Holidays from Frequency Podcast Network! This week we'll be joined by the Friends of Frequency (FOF).In this special feed drop on The Big Story, Host Alex Seixeiro speaks to Abbey Sharp, registered dietician and host of the Bite Back podcast, to discuss all the diet trends of 2025. They dig into the dos and don'ts of diet culture, and which habits we you should leave behind heading into 2026. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Happy Holidays from Frequency Podcast Network! This week we'll be joined by the Friends of Frequency (FOF). In this special feed drop on The Big Story, 680 NewsRadio City Hall reporter, Momin Qureshi sits down with Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow to look back on 2025, and what she hopes for heading into 2026. The two discuss Chow's potential second term, her relationship with Premier Doug Ford, and when exactly Torontonians can expect the Eglinton Crosstown LRT to open. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Happy Holidays from Frequency Podcast Network! This week we'll be joined by the Friends of Frequency (FOF). This week, we are doing a retrospective on the year's best and wildest pop culture stories, dissecting the celebrity stories that continue to live rent-free in our minds (Diddy's trial and Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau's love story), dish on the music we couldn't get enough of (Lily Allen's West End Girl, obviously), the movies that moved us, and the TV series we adored (Yes, Sadaf opines beautifully about The Pitt). Lean in, grab your glass of wine, and let our hot takes keep you warm over your winter break! We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Happy Holidays from Frequency Podcast Network! This week we'll be joined by the Friends of Frequency (FOF).This week we dig into snow. When did snow first fall on earth? The ghost of Smugglers Notch, avalanches, record snow falls, Jamie throws snowballs at children and more. Chris, Jason, Jamie and Lew talk all things snow on this week's Hogwash. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Happy Holidays from Frequency Podcast Network! This week we'll be joined by the Friends of Frequency (FOF).In part two of this special feed drop on The Big Story, Parliament Hill Bureau Chief for CityNews and political correspondent Glen McGregor discuss the biggest political headlines of 2025. They recap Mark Carney's first few months as Prime Minister, the future of the NDP, and what lies ahead for Federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Happy Holidays from Frequency Podcast Network! Over the next couple weeks, we'll be joined by the Friends of Frequency (FOF).In this special feed drop on The Big Story, Host Kris McCusker speaks to Kelley Keehn, CEO of the Money Wise Institute to discuss the dos and don'ts of Buy Now Pay Later payment options. The two break down how to spend wisely this holiday season and how to not fall into dangerous spending habits you can't ultimately keep up with. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Here’s a run down of what we discussed in today’s episode:IntroductionWhy Willpower Isn’t the Key to Behavior ChangeWillpower as a Muscle (or Phone Battery)How the Holidays Drain Our Willpower FasterWhat the Parole Judge Study Teaches Us About Decision FatigueWhy Willpower Works Better Before Temptation HitsUsing Upstream Willpower: What It Actually MeansHoliday Tactics That Don’t Depend on WillpowerBuilding Systems Now to Avoid December BurnoutSetting Up Habits That Make January EasierEnding the Annual “Start Strong, Fall Off” CycleA Kinder Approach to Holiday EatingCheck in with today’s amazing guest: Jenn TrepeckWebsite: asaladwithasideoffries.comPodcast: A Salad With a Side of FriesInstagram: @jenntrepeckBook: Uncomplicating WellnessDisclaimer: The content in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is never a substitute for medical advice. If you’re struggling with with your mental or physical health, please work one on one with a health care provider.If you have heard yourself in our discussion today, and are looking for support, contact the free NEDIC helpline at 1-866-NEDIC-20 or go to eatingdisorderhope.com.Reach Your Weight & Health Goals - Without Dieting! Pre-Order The Hunger Crushing Combo Method, Abbey’s revolutionary additive approach to eating well to boost satiety, stabilize blood sugars, reduce the risk of disease, improve your relationship with food by providing the best nutrient bang for your caloric buck. With over 400 research citations, cheat sheets, evidence based actionable tips, meal plans and adaptable recipes, the Hunger Crushing Combo Method is the only nutrition bible you’ll ever need.Pre-Order today and submit your proof of purchase to get a FREE HCC Holiday Survival Guide here.Where to Purchase:AmazonB&NAmazon KindleApple BooksGoogle PlayKoboApple Books (Audio)Audible More information and retailers here: abbeyskitchen.com/hunger-crushing-combo🥤 Check out my 2-in-1 Plant Based Probiotic Protein Powder, neue theory at www.neuetheory.com or @neuetheory and use my promo code BITEBACK20 to get 20% off your order!Don’t forget to Please subscribe on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a review! It really helps us out.✉️ SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTERS ⤵️Neue Theory newsletterAbbey's Kitchen newsletter🥞 FREE HUNGER CRUSHING COMBO™ E-BOOK!💪🏼 FREE PROTEIN 101 E-BOOK!📱 Follow me!Instagram: @abbeyskitchenTikTok: @abbeyskitchenYouTube: @AbbeysKitchenMy blog, Abbey’s Kitchen www.abbeyskitchen.comMy book, The Mindful Glow Cookbook affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3NoHtvf We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter