What's the Big Idea

Season 4, Episode 5Zahra Moussavi discusses her findings into using non-pharmaceutical interventions for Alzheimer's and dementia. With a background in electrical engineering, Moussavi’s groundbreaking research highlights the role of synapses and brain activity in cognitive health. Her innovative treatment strategies include electrical stimulation, VR navigation, and neurorehabilitation. These have shown success in potentially slowing, stabilizing, and reversing cognitive decline. In her conversation with UM President Michael Bennaroch, she emphasizes the importance of early detection and the need for innovative approaches to manage dementia as a chronic condition rather than a progressive one. About Zahra Moussavi: Canada Research Chair Tier I.Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Manitoba.Founder and former director, Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Manitoba.Recipient of the 2018 Technical Excellence Award.Awarded IEEE EMBS Distinguished Lecturer, 2014 and 2019. About What’s the Big Idea?What’s the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast hosted by University of Manitoba President Michael Benarroch. Each episode features conversations with big thinkers from the UM community who are contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of people everywhere. It is produced by the University of Manitoba in partnership with Everything Podcasts.Links and ResourcesProfessor Zahra MoussaviContact: Zahra.Moussavi@umanitoba.caAgewell – Canada’s Technology and Aging NetworkUniversity of Manitoba: Discover programs and opportunitiesAlumni Relations: Stay connected with UMUM News: Read more about UM events and researchHelp make big ideas possibleResearch at the University of Manitoba is driven by curiosity and made possible through partnership and philanthropy. If this conversation sparked your curiosity, we’d love to connect you with opportunities to support world-class research and discovery at UM.Learn more or get in touch today.MusicAdrenaline Rush by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music.Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Help us spread the big ideas from the UM community.

Season 4, Episode 4Episode Summary:Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, globally. In conversation with the Director of the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and former Canada Research Chair in Molecular Cardiology, Dr. Lorrie Kirshenbaum, this episode explores the significant differences in heart disease between men and women and the need for tailored research and treatment approaches. Dr. Kirshenbaum is a proud University of Manitoba researcher, and a major focus of his research is understanding the underlying sex specific difference in heart failure. He describes some of these mechanisms, the role of specific proteins in heart health and cancer treatment, and how research from NASA space flights provided unique insights into heart health. Also highlighted are the importance of holistic approaches to women's heart health and the impact of local research initiatives in Manitoba.  About Dr. Lorrie Kirshenbaum: Director of Research Development, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of ManitobaDirector, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research CentrePrincipal Investigator, Cardiac Gene Biology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research CentreProfessor, Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of ManitobaFormer Canada Research Chair in Molecular Cardiology, University of Manitoba About What’s the Big Idea?What’s the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast hosted by University of Manitoba President Michael Benarroch. Each episode features conversations with big thinkers from the UM community who are contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of people everywhere. It is produced by the University of Manitoba in partnership with Everything Podcasts.Links and ResourcesProfessor Lorrie Kirshenbaum, PhDFunding paves way for drug discovery platform for heart research at UMMax Rady College of MedicineInstitute of Cardiovascular SciencesSt. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research CentreUniversity of Manitoba: Discover programs and opportunitiesAlumni Relations: Stay connected with UMUM News: Read more about UM events and researchHelp make big ideas possibleResearch at the University of Manitoba is driven by curiosity and made possible through partnership and philanthropy. If this conversation sparked your curiosity, we’d love to connect you with opportunities to support world-class research and discovery at UM.Learn more or get in touch today.MusicAdrenaline Rush by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music.Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Help us spread the big ideas from the UM community.

Season 4, Episode 3Episode Summary:What are the challenges and the opportunities in creating a just and inclusive economic future?  Hosted by Angie Bruce, Vice President (Indigenous) at the University of Manitoba, this episode of "What's the Big Idea?" explores the theme of economic reconciliation. Featured are Indigenous leaders and experts, Diane Roussin, a member of Skownan First Nation and project director of the Winnipeg Boldness Project, Kathleen BlueSky, a Cree Ikwe from Nisichiwasik Cree Nation and CEO of Treaty One Development Corporation, and Dr. Peter Pomart, a member of Mathias Cologne First Nation, an Asper School of Business lecturer and the former director of Indigenous Business Education Partners. Their public conversation considers the impact of racist policies like the Indian Act, the complexity of building Canadian sovereignty without infringing on Indigenous rights, the Carney government’s Bill C-5 or Building Canada Act and the relationship-building that is fundamental to successful economic reconciliation.  Host and panelists: About Angie Bruce:Red River Métis from St. Laurent, Manitoba. Vice-President (Indigenous) of University of Manitoba, since February 2024.MBA from UM’s Asper School of Business and a PhD from Nipissing University.Former Assistant Deputy Minister of Natural Resources Canada's Nókwewashk sector.Former Deputy Minister in Manitoba's Indigenous and Northern Relations and Municipal Relations departments.Grew the Indigenous Natural Resource Program to $100 million.Led the development of an Indigenous Research Ethics policy.Led the highest number of Treaty Land Entitlement land transfers in Manitoba's historyHas held senior positions with the Legacy of Hope Foundation and the Aboriginal Healing Foundation. About Diane Roussin:Anishinaabe and member of the Skownan First Nation.Passionate advocate for Mino bimaadiziwin (the good life) for all families and children.Holds Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work degrees.Project Director of the Winnipeg Boldness Project, seeking to empower the Point Douglas community and create large-scale, systemic change for children and families living there.Former Executive Director of the Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre. Former Co-Director of Community Education Development Association.Former Coordinator of The Winnipeg Foundation’s Centennial Neighbourhood Project.Received the 2018 Governor General’s Award for Outstanding Indigenous Leadership. Kathleen BlueSky:A Cree and Anishinaabe Ikwe from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation and Minegoziibe  Anishinabe First Nation.CEO of Treaty One Development Corporation, leading a major economic development project at Naawi-Oodena, a Treaty One Joint Reserve lands located in Winnipeg, MB.MBA from Asper School of Business. Founder of Seven Feathers ConsultingFormer CEO of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation.Serves as the Vice-Chairperson of the $300M First Nation Market Housing Fund Co-founded Wiijii’idiwag Ikwewag, securing Manitoba’s first Social Impact Bond in 2019. About Peter Pomart:A member of Mathias Colomb First Nation - and a second-generation residential school survivor - Pomart is dedicated to advancing reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Lecturer at the I.H. Asper School of BusinessCompleting his doctoral studies in Business Administration.His primary research aims to provide an Indigenous-centered perspective on how industry actors may better align their engagement practices with Article 32 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.  About What’s the Big Idea?What’s the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast hosted by University of Manitoba President Michael Benarroch. Each episode features conversations with big thinkers from the UM community who are contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of people everywhere. It is produced by the University of Manitoba in partnership with Everything Podcasts.Links and ResourcesThe Winnipeg Boldness ProjectMa Mawi Wi Chi Itata CentreTreaty One Development CorporationNational Indigenous Economic Development Board: Naawi-OodenaSeven Feathers ConsultingFirst Nations Market Housing FundUniversity of Manitoba: Discover programs and opportunitiesAlumni Relations: Stay connected with UMUM News: Read more about UM events and researchHelp make big ideas possibleResearch at the University of Manitoba is driven by curiosity and made possible through partnership and philanthropy. If this conversation sparked your curiosity, we’d love to connect you with opportunities to support world-class research and discovery at UM.Learn more or get in touch today.MusicAdrenaline Rush by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music.Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Help us spread the big ideas from the UM community. What’s the Big Idea? is a University of Manitoba production, created in partnership with Everything Podcasts.

 Season 4, Episode 2Episode Summary:In a world where the wealth gap continues to widen, with the richest 5% reaping the vast majority of globalization's financial gains, it's crucial to rethink how businesses operate. This episode challenges the status quo, urging a shift towards business models that prioritize the well-being of society and the environment over mere profit maximization.In this episode Bruno Dick, the Norman Frohlich Professor in Business Sustainability at the Asper School of Business, discusses the concept of Social and Ecological Thought Management (SET) and its implications for reimagining the purpose of business. In conversation with UM President Michael Bennaroch, Dyck explores how businesses can prioritize social and ecological well-being over profit maximization and welcomes the role the Chiu Center for Business Serving Community will play in promoting these ideas. About Bruno Dyck:Has been teaching in the Asper School of Business since 1990.Developed two undergraduate courses: Corporate, Social, and Environmental Responsibility, and the mandatory course, Sustainable Business.Two‐time recipient of the Asper School’s Associates Achievement Award for Teaching.Recipient of UM’s student‐chosen Certificate of Teaching ExcellenceRecipient of the Significant Contribution to Excellence in Teaching award. Recipient of the Dr. & Mrs. H.H. Saunderson Award for Excellence in Teaching award. Recipient of the 2023 Faculty Sustainability Award from UM’s Office of Sustainability.Received the Francisco de Vitoria University’s Expanded Reason Award for Teaching. Received the Book of the Year Award from the International Humanistic Management Association, for the textbook Management: Financial, Social, and Ecological Well-Being.Facilitated development of a series of videos by a team of UM MBA Indigenous students, allowing business instructors, worldwide to incorporate Indigenous content into courses. About What’s the Big Idea?What’s the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast hosted by University of Manitoba President Michael Benarroch. Each episode features conversations with big thinkers from the UM community who are contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of people everywhere. It is produced by the University of Manitoba in partnership with Everything Podcasts.Links and ResourcesManagement: Entrepreneurship, Financial and Socio-Ecological Well-Being University of Manitoba’s Chiu Centre for Business Serving CommunityUniversity of Manitoba Asper School of Business FacultyUniversity of Manitoba: Discover programs and opportunitiesAlumni Relations: Stay connected with UMUM News: Read more about UM events and researchHelp make big ideas possibleResearch at the University of Manitoba is driven by curiosity and made possible through partnership and philanthropy. If this conversation sparked your curiosity, we’d love to connect you with opportunities to support world-class research and discovery at UM.Learn more or get in touch today.MusicAdrenaline Rush by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music.Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Help us spread the big ideas from the UM community. What’s the Big Idea? is a University of Manitoba production, created in partnership with Everything Podcasts.

 Season 4, Episode 1Episode Summary:No longer just a frontier for governments and billionaires, space is a shared environment that needs protection. As companies like SpaceX and Amazon launch mega-constellations of satellites, the risk to our atmosphere and orbital space grows. How can we ensure that the future of space is sustainable, inclusive, and serving communities on Earth?In this episode, Philip Fergusson, an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, President of the Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute, and Director of the University of Manitoba’s STARlab, joins President Benarroch to discuss his big idea. From co-developing satellites with Arctic communities to designing drone airships for northern connectivity, we explore how responsible innovation, reconciliation, and a focus on local needs can shape a better future for space exploration.About Philip Fergusson:Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Price Faculty of Engineering at the University of Manitoba.Magellan Aerospace Industrial Research Chair in Satellite Technology.President of the Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute.Director of the University of Manitoba’s STARlab.Studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where his PhD focused on astronaut movement during long-duration spaceflight missions.His work at STARlab includes building satellites launched from the International Space Station to study asteroids.Committed to reconciliation through innovation, advancing space technologies to serve northern, Indigenous, and remote communities, his work directly addresses digital inequity and supports self-determination.As a university-based researcher, he is positioned to lead a critical, evidence-informed conversation about sustainable materials and better international regulation for space.About What’s the Big Idea?What’s the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast hosted by University of Manitoba President Michael Benarroch. Each episode features conversations with big thinkers from the UM community who are contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of people everywhere. It is produced by the University of Manitoba in partnership with Everything Podcasts.Links and ResourcesUniversity of Manitoba’s Starlab. University of Manitoba: Discover programs and opportunities.Alumni Relations: Stay connected with UM.UM News: Read more about UM events and research.Help make big ideas possibleResearch at the University of Manitoba is driven by curiosity and made possible through partnership and philanthropy. If this conversation sparked your curiosity, we’d love to connect you with opportunities to support world-class research and discovery at UM.Learn more or get in touch today.MusicAdrenaline Rush by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music.Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Help us spread the big ideas from the UM community. What’s the Big Idea? is a University of Manitoba production, created in partnership with Everything Podcasts.

Season 3, Episode 7 - Business as Unusual: Risk, Research and Rethinking Productivity with Dave Angus In the wake of Canada’s federal election—and amid renewed U.S. trade tensions—Canada is at a crossroads. How do we grow an economy that’s more resilient, more innovative, and more productive? In this timely episode, Dave Angus, President of Johnston Group, former head of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and UM's incoming Chancellor, joins President Benarroch to discuss the big ideas we need now. From smarter regulation to bolder partnerships between business and post-secondary institutions, we explore how risk-taking, research, and rethinking old assumptions could help Canada meet this moment—and thrive beyond it.  About Dave Angus Member of the Order of Manitoba Named Canada’s top Chamber of Commerce Executive in 2012.  Through his involvement with the United Way, Angus rallies local businesses in furthering their adoption of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, specifically Call to Action #92, which focuses on youth employment.  Chair of the Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights Past-chair and sitting member of the Joint Public Advisory Committee of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation; Co-chair of the Board of the World Trade Centre Winnipeg;  Co-chair of the Winnipeg Poverty Reduction Council;  Board member of the Manitoba Museum;  Board member of Winnipeg’s Downtown Council;  Canadian representative on the Board of Directors of the American Chamber of Commerce Executives;  Co-chair of the Council of International Trade; Member of the City of Winnipeg’s Red Tape Commission;  Member of the Mayor’s Trade Council;  Board Chair of the Prairie Theatre Exchange;  Board member of the YM/YWCA.  About What’s the Big Idea? What’s the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast hosted by University of Manitoba President Michael Benarroch. Each episode features conversations with big thinkers from the UM community who are contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of people everywhere. It is produced by the University of Manitoba in partnership with Everything Podcasts.  Links and Resources University of Manitoba: Discover programs and opportunities. Alumni Relations: Stay connected with UM. UM News: Read more about UM events and research.  Sources What’s Next for the U.S.-Canada Relationship? The Atlantic, April 30, 2025  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbwxQFuh3zQ   'It's not true that we will go through this psychodrama every 30 days': Minister Joly on trade war, CTV News, March 5, 2025 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWKzzf4bUNU Newly elected Canadian PM Mark Carney holds press conference, moneycontrol, May 3, 2025 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lq3JBhQHElk  Music Adrenaline Rush by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music.   Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Help us spread the big ideas from the UM community. What’s the Big Idea? is a University of Manitoba production, created in partnership with Everything Podcasts. #podcast

Season 3, Episode 6Healthcare systems across Manitoba—and Canada—are facing a critical challenge: a shortage of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals. In this episode, we explore the root causes of this crisis, and dive into our guests’ big ideas to help solve it.Just as there is a family physician designation in Canada, Dr. Aaron Jattan argues that there should be one for rural doctors, recognizing the extra training and skills needed in this role.Dr. Peter Nickerson believes we need a distributed education model to train learners across the province. With Winnipeg exceeding its training capacity, rural communities who want physicians need to invest in training them locally.Expanding training programs is a step in the right direction, but long-term solutions to multi-faceted problems require strategic planning, policy changes, and investment in retention efforts. Tune in to hear how Manitoba is working to address these challenges—and what more can be done.About Dr. JattanAssistant Professor and Associate Program Director at the Max Rady College of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of Manitoba.Chief Medical Officer (acting), Winnipeg Regional Health AuthorityChairs and sits on national committees with the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC)Family physician and hospitalist working primarily out of St. Boniface Hospital.Completed his medical school at the University of Ottawa and his residency at the University of Manitoba in the Brandon streamCompleted his master’s in medical education through the University of Dundee.Actively engaged in research involving clinical feedback and curricular innovation.About Dr. NickersonDean of the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences and dean of the Max Rady College of Medicine at UMTransplant nephrologist at the Health Sciences Centre WinnipegMedical consultant to the Transplant Immunology Laboratory at Shared Health.2020 Lifetime Achievement Award, Canadian Society of Transplantation2020 Rose Payne Distinguished Scientist Award, American Society of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics2018 Medal for Research Excellence, Kidney Foundation of Canada2016 Paul I. Terasaki Clinical Science Award, American Society of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics2016 Clinical Science Established Investigator Award, American Society of Transplantation2016 Scholastic Award, Doctors Manitoba2012 Fellow Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, Canadian Academy of Health Sciences2012 Dr. John B. Dossetor Research Award, Kidney Foundation of CanadaAbout What’s the Big Idea?What’s the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast hosted by University of Manitoba President Michael Benarroch. Each episode features conversations with big thinkers from the UM community who are contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of people everywhere. It is produced by the University of Manitoba in partnership with Everything Podcasts.Links and ResourcesA comparison of teaching opportunities for rural and urban family medicine residents, Dr. Aaron Jattan.Dismantling the hub and spoke: Social accountability and rural medical education, Dr. Aaron Jattan.University of Manitoba: Discover programs and opportunities.Alumni Relations: Stay connected with UM.UM News: Read more about UM events and research.SourcesHow this med school is tackling the rural doctor shortage, CBC News, The National, June 2023 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqdU0OzF6-4 Manitoba needs to do more to woo doctors to rural northern communities, CBC News, Feb 2023 https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/rural-er-docs-are-struggling-to-do-it-all-peer-support-programs-try-to-lessen-the-load-1.6735155 Doctors Manitoba ‘optimistic’ about rural health care changes outlined in new report, Global News,  October 2022 https://globalnews.ca/news/9233856/doctors-manitoba-optimistic-rural-health-care-changes/MusicAdrenaline Rush by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music.Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Help us spread the big ideas from the UM community. What’s the Big Idea? is a University of Manitoba production, created in partnership with Everything Podcasts.

"What's the Big Idea" is a new podcast featuring University of Manitoba President and Vice-Chancellor Michael Benarroch in conversation with some of today's big thinkers. Together, they’ll unpack “the big idea” their work explores. A series featuring an exciting and diverse array of voices from the UM community contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of the people of Manitoba, Canada, and the world.#podcast #education

 Get Dying Right: Why Dignity in Care Matters with Dr. Harvey Chochinov Season 3, Episode 5  How can we get dying right? In this episode, Distinguished Professor Dr. Harvey Chochinov helps answer this question by sharing stories and insights gained from decades of research in palliative care wards.  Dr. Chochinov pioneered “dignity therapy” and now he shares his bigger idea on how dignity-centered health care can transform our experiences of end-of-life care and our views on medical assistance in dying (MAID), personhood, family, and much more.  About Dr. Harvey Chochinov Canada Research Chair in Palliative Care and Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Manitoba. Senior Scientist at the CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute. Officer of the Order of Canada, member of the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame, and recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award for Academic Innovation from the University of Manitoba. Co-founder of the Virtual Hospice, the world’s largest repository of information and support for patients, families, and care providers. Author of Dignity Therapy: Final Words for Final Days, winner of the 2011 Prose Award. Author of Dignity in Care: The Human Side of Medicine  About What’s the Big Idea? What’s the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast hosted by University of Manitoba President Michael Benarroch. Each episode features conversations with big thinkers from the UM community who are contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of people everywhere. It is produced by the University of Manitoba in partnership with Everything Podcasts.  Links and Resources Dignity Therapy: Final Words for Final Days: Learn about the book by Dr. Harvey Chochinov. Dignity in Care: Explore this initiative. University of Manitoba: Discover programs and opportunities. Alumni Relations: Stay connected with UM. UM News: Read more about UM events and research.  Music Adrenaline Rush by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music.  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Help us spread the big ideas from the UM community. What’s the Big Idea? is a University of Manitoba production, created in partnership with Everything Podcasts. #podcast #education #university

Gut Instincts: Unlocking the Microbiome’s Secrets to Health and Happiness with Dr. Heather ArmstrongIn this episode, UM president, Michael Benarroch, asks Dr. Heather Armstrong to unpack the big idea that we can treat diseases such as cancer, arthritis and MS by improving gut health. As Canada Research Chair in Integrative Bioscience, Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine with the University of Manitoba’s Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, and a research scientist with the Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM), Dr. Armstrong investigates the intersection of gut health and chronic diseases. Through her research, she aims to unravel the complex interactions between gut microbes, diet, and inflammation to better understand the pathology of these diseases and how they are linked to cancer.  At the forefront of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) research, she is seeking a more personalized treatment for people living with the chronic disease and last year received both the Crohn’s and Colitis Canada Women in IBD Emerging Researcher Award and the Crohn’s and Colitis Canada Rising Star Award, honouring her for her research developing and investigating personalized approaches. What's the Big Idea? is an award-winning podcast featuring President Michael Benarroch in conversation with some of today's big thinkers. Together, they unpack “the big idea” their work explores. The series features an exciting and diverse array of voices from the UM community contributing to the cultural, social and economic well-being of the people of Manitoba, Canada and the world. What’s the Big Idea? is a University of Manitoba production, created in partnership with Everything Podcasts.  The University of Manitoba, Western Canada’s first university, is a hub of research, innovation, and learning. Located in Winnipeg, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering a diverse and inclusive community of over 30,000 students. UM is one of Canada’s top research universities and the largest source of skilled professionals in Manitoba. From breakthroughs in health and climate action to meaningful partnerships that advance Reconciliation, UM is a world-class university shaping the future of our province and beyond.  Links: Enrol today – Learn more about all UM has to offer: Explore UM. University of Manitoba Alumni Relations – Find more ways to stay connected: UM Alumni. UM News – Read more about UM events and research: UM Today.  Sources: Music Adrenaline Rush, by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music 

For the love of tariffs: Amanda Lang on how Trump’s re-election will impact Canada: UM president, Michael Benarroch and renowned business and political journalist Amanda Lang [BES/91] discuss what Canadians should expect following the results of the US election. How will Trump’s America first approach impact our trade relationship? Will he takes steps to erode academic freedom or freedom of the press? Which industries stand to benefit, and which may face challenges?  Amanda Lang [BES/91] is an award-winning journalist, bestselling author, and Senior Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy. With over 25 years covering North America’s top business stories, alum Amanda Lang has appeared on Bloomberg TV, CBC, and now hosts “Taking Stock” on CTV. She’s not only a journalist but a keen observer of politics, leadership, and business in the global political landscape. What's the big idea? is an award-winning podcast featuring President Michael Benarroch in conversation with some of today's big thinkers. Together, they unpack “the big idea” their work explores. The series features an exciting and diverse array of voices from the UM community contributing to the cultural, social and economic well-being of the people of Manitoba, Canada and the world. The University of Manitoba, Western Canada’s first university, is a hub of research, innovation, and learning. Located in Winnipeg, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering a diverse and inclusive community of over 30,000 students. UM is one of Canada’s top research universities and the largest source of skilled professionals in Manitoba. From breakthroughs in health and climate action to meaningful partnerships that advance Reconciliation, UM is a world-class university shaping the future of our province and beyond.Links:  Enrol today – Learn more about all UM has to offer: Explore UM.University of Manitoba Alumni Relations – Find more ways to stay connected: UM Alumni.UM News – Read more about UM events and research: UM Today.Sources:  CBC News: The National | Donald Trump’s return to power, November 2024https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIGsJKnQNsg Forbes Breaking News, Trump Lays Out Economic Promises, October 2024 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhZYn5dymBs CTV News, ‘Canada will be absolutely fine’, November 2024 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_NFUkq07Z0 MusicAdrenaline Rush, by Will Bonness, Associate Professor, Desautels Faculty of Music

From Sea Ice to Shipping Lanes: Manitoba’s Maritime Future, with Feiyue Wang: S3, Episode 2 As Canada Research Chair in Arctic Environmental Chemistry, University of Manitoba’s Dr. Feiyue Wang is the Lead researcher of the new Churchill Marine Observatory and Sea-Ice Environmental Research Facility where he studies current and emerging contaminants in the Arctic and their interactions with climate change. His research provides critical knowledge and tools for improving polices and practices for sustainable development in the Arctic. Through an initiative called REACH or Reimagining Artic and Central Canada Accessibility through Hudson Bay, Dr. Wang and his interdisciplinary team of collaborators hope to help Manitoba reach its full potential as a maritime province, with the development of a new global shipping route.  What's the big idea? is an award-winning podcast featuring President Michael Benarroch in conversation with some of today's big thinkers. Together, they unpack “the big idea” their work explores. The series features an exciting and diverse array of voices from the UM community contributing to the cultural, social and economic well-being of the people of Manitoba, Canada and the world.   The University of Manitoba, Western Canada’s first university, is a hub of research, innovation, and learning. Located in Winnipeg, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering a diverse and inclusive community of over 30,000 students. UM is one of Canada’s top research universities and the largest source of skilled professionals in Manitoba. From breakthroughs in health and climate action to meaningful partnerships that advance Reconciliation, UM is a world-class university shaping the future of our province and beyond.   Sources: The Weather Network, January 2024 https://www.msn.com/en-ca/weather/topstories/wide-open-unfrozen-sections-of-hudson-bay-could-this-be-the-new-winter-normal/vi-AA1mkmuo#details  Winnipeg City News (August 2024) https://winnipeg.citynews.ca/video/2024/08/27/new-arctic-research-facility-opens-in-churchill/  Music Adrenaline Rush, by Will Bonness  

AI and the Future of Humanity: Work, Worship, and Relationships with Neil McArthurNamed by Maclean’s Magazine as one of Canada’s leading experts on AI, Dr.Neil McArthur specializes in ethics and technology and his current research focuses especially on how artificial intelligence is used for companionship and intimacy. In 2023, he created a new course exploring issues ranging from humanity’s potential annihilation by artificial intelligence (AI) to what happens to copyright law when an algorithm can create songs with Neil Young’s voice. Dr.McArthur believes AI has huge benefits and can make society better but only if humans truly understand and harness its power. Neil McArthur is a Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Centre for Professional and Applied Ethics at the University of Manitoba S3, Episode 1

Michael Benarroch is joined by Professor Julienne Stroeve, a renowned climate change researcher. She is a professor in the University of Manitoba's Center for Earth Observation Science and a senior Canada 150 research chair in climate forcing of sea ice. Professor Stroeve has briefed US Vice President Al Gore, US congressional staff, and the World Economic Forum on her research.In this episode, Professor Stroeve stresses that changes are happening at a much faster rate than we have expected and urges governments to act now. For more information, visit the podcast's website. The episode features clips from: CNN, CBC and BBC.  About the host:Michael Benarroch became President of the University of Manitoba on July 1, 2020. Throughout his career, Dr. Benarroch has demonstrated his lifelong dedication to transformative higher education and has made significant contributions to the fields of economics, research, and post-secondary administration. A passionate teacher and researcher, he has taught economics at Canadian universities since 1989. His career includes serving as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Toronto Metropolitan University (2017-2020), Dean of the I.H. Asper School of Business (2011-2017) and 21-years with the University of Winnipeg, where he was chair of the department of Economics (1999 - 2007). About the University of Manitoba:For more than 140 years, the University of Manitoba has delivered life-changing learning experiences for students, conducted world-class research and shared knowledge and discovery to shape our province, country and world. UM is western Canada’s flagship university, Manitoba's only research-intensive university, is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.An Everything Podcasts production. 

Michael Benarroch is joined by Dr. Meghan Azad, Professor of Pediatrics and Child Health at the University of Manitoba with cross appointments in immunology and food and human nutritional sciences. Dr. Azad studies the science of breast milk and is one of the world's foremost experts on the wonderful substance. In this episode, they explore why breast milk matters to all of us, and explain how The Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre (MILC) is at the forefront of human milk and infant feeding research.For more information, visit the podcast's website. The episode features clips from: Global News, and Melinda French Gates.  About the host:Michael Benarroch became President of the University of Manitoba on July 1, 2020. Throughout his career, Dr. Benarroch has demonstrated his lifelong dedication to transformative higher education and has made significant contributions to the fields of economics, research, and post-secondary administration. A passionate teacher and researcher, he has taught economics at Canadian universities since 1989. His career includes serving as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Toronto Metropolitan University (2017-2020), Dean of the I.H. Asper School of Business (2011-2017) and 21-years with the University of Winnipeg, where he was chair of the department of Economics (1999 - 2007). About the University of Manitoba:For more than 140 years, the University of Manitoba has delivered life-changing learning experiences for students, conducted world-class research and shared knowledge and discovery to shape our province, country and world. UM is western Canada’s flagship university, Manitoba's only research-intensive university, is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.An Everything Podcasts production. 

Michael Benarroch sits down with Dr. Joss Reimer, Chief Medical Officer for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and someone who not only led Manitoba's COVID-19 vaccine implementation task force but has worked tirelessly to end the stigma around mental illness. Together, they explore how Dr. Reimer’s personal experiences have affected her work around mental health, and why we all need to create more supportive environments in the workplace. For more information, visit the podcast's website. Read Dr Joss Reimer’s article ‘Running because of — not away from — depression’ in the Winnipeg Free Press here. About the host:Michael Benarroch became President of the University of Manitoba on July 1, 2020. Throughout his career, Dr. Benarroch has demonstrated his lifelong dedication to transformative higher education and has made significant contributions to the fields of economics, research, and post-secondary administration. A passionate teacher and researcher, he has taught economics at Canadian universities since 1989. His career includes serving as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Toronto Metropolitan University (2017-2020), Dean of the I.H. Asper School of Business (2011-2017) and 21-years with the University of Winnipeg, where he was chair of the department of Economics (1999 - 2007). About the University of Manitoba:For more than 140 years, the University of Manitoba has delivered life-changing learning experiences for students, conducted world-class research and shared knowledge and discovery to shape our province, country and world. UM is western Canada’s flagship university, Manitoba's only research-intensive university, is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.An Everything Podcasts production. 

Show notes:How can you become a better leader? In this episode, Michael Benarroch explores this question with Dr. Suzanne Gagnon, the Associate Dean of Professional graduate programs at I.H. Asper School of Business, the inaugural director of the Burns Leadership Institute and the Canada Life Chair in Leadership Education. At the start of this episode, you hear clips from the following: Roselinde Torres' Ted Talk: What it takes to be a great leaderBrené Brown on leadership.For more information, visit the podcast's website. About the host:Michael Benarroch became President of the University of Manitoba on July 1, 2020. Throughout his career, Dr. Benarroch has demonstrated his lifelong dedication to transformative higher education and has made significant contributions to the fields of economics, research, and post-secondary administration. A passionate teacher and researcher, he has taught economics at Canadian universities since 1989. His career includes serving as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Toronto Metropolitan University (2017-2020), Dean of the I.H. Asper School of Business (2011-2017) and 21-years with the University of Winnipeg, where he was chair of the department of Economics (1999 - 2007). About the University of Manitoba:For more than 140 years, the University of Manitoba has delivered life-changing learning experiences for students, conducted world-class research and shared knowledge and discovery to shape our province, country and world. UM is western Canada’s flagship university, Manitoba's only research-intensive university, is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.An Everything Podcasts production. 

In this episode, Michael Benarroch speaks to Dr. Nazim Cicek whose big ideas are proving that it doesn't have to cost the earth to feed the world. He's a professor in the Department of Biosystems Engineering and Associate Dean Research in the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science. Michael and Nazim explore how research is advancing sustainable agriculture to address food shortages and the climate crisis.About the host:Michael Benarroch became President of the University of Manitoba on July 1, 2020. Throughout his career, Dr. Benarroch has demonstrated his lifelong dedication to transformative higher education and has made significant contributions to the fields of economics, research, and post-secondary administration. A passionate teacher and researcher, he has taught economics at Canadian universities since 1989. His career includes serving as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Toronto Metropolitan University (2017-2020), Dean of the I.H. Asper School of Business (2011-2017) and 21-years with the University of Winnipeg, where he was chair of the department of Economics (1999 - 2007). About the University of Manitoba:For more than 140 years, the University of Manitoba has delivered life-changing learning experiences for students, conducted world-class research and shared knowledge and discovery to shape our province, country and world. UM is western Canada’s flagship university, Manitoba's only research-intensive university, is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Red River Métis.

Michael Benarroch sits down with Professor Niigaan Sinclair, one of the most sought after national voices on education, politics and Reconciliation. Sinclair is the former head of the Department of Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba, an indigenous content consultant and columnist for the Winnipeg Free Press.Their conversation explores whether the university is doing enough to attract and support indigenous students; the stories that help and those that hinder Reconciliation; the significance of indigenous-led economic development in Winnipeg and much more. Part way through the episode you will hear a recording of Justice Murray Sinclair speaking about making reconciliation a reality.About the host:Michael Benarroch became President of the University of Manitoba on July 1, 2020. Throughout his career, Dr. Benarroch has demonstrated his lifelong dedication to transformative higher education and has made significant contributions to the fields of economics, research, and post-secondary administration. A passionate teacher and researcher, he has taught economics at Canadian universities since 1989. His career includes serving as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Toronto Metropolitan University (2017-2020), Dean of the I.H. Asper School of Business (2011-2017) and 21-years with the University of Winnipeg, where he was chair of the department of Economics (1999 - 2007). About the University of Manitoba:For more than 140 years, the University of Manitoba has delivered life-changing learning experiences for students, conducted world-class research and shared knowledge and discovery to shape our province, country and world. UM is western Canada’s flagship university, Manitoba's only research-intensive university, is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.An Everything Podcasts production. 

In this episode, guest host University of Manitoba's Chancellor Anne Mahon speaks to UM alum and New York Times best-selling author of the Vagina Bible and the Menopause Manifesto, Dr. Jen Gunter. As a board certified OB/GYN in both Canada and the United States, Dr. Gunter is a candid advocate for women and science.In this powerful conversation, she shares her mission to correct the masses of misinformation on everything from menstruation and menopause; and she explains how women’s health is still weaponized for profit, even while accurate information is easier to access than ever before.Dr. Gunter’s upcoming book, Blood, The science, medicine, and mythology of menstruation, will be released in January 2024. A note on the Women Leading Change Health Research Fund  As demonstrated in this podcast episode, health research has long been dominated by a focus on men’s health. Underrepresentation in clinical trials, lack of information leading to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, and treatment plans that have been designed specifically for men have created inequities that have life-threating consequences for women.You can help close the gap by supporting research that can pave the way for better health for all women. The Women Leading Change Health Research Fund will support women at the University of Manitoba who lead innovative research that advances women’s health. The goal is to raise $100,000.  For more information and to donate, visit the fund’s website.About the host:Michael Benarroch became President of the University of Manitoba on July 1, 2020. Throughout his career, Dr. Benarroch has demonstrated his lifelong dedication to transformative higher education and has made significant contributions to the fields of economics, research, and post-secondary administration. A passionate teacher and researcher, he has taught economics at Canadian universities since 1989. His career includes serving as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Toronto Metropolitan University (2017-2020), Dean of the I.H. Asper School of Business (2011-2017) and 21-years with the University of Winnipeg, where he was chair of the department of Economics (1999 - 2007). About the University of Manitoba:For more than 140 years, the University of Manitoba has delivered life-changing learning experiences for students, conducted world-class research and shared knowledge and discovery to shape our province, country and world. UM is western Canada’s flagship university, Manitoba's only research-intensive university, is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Red River Métis.