The Current

The Current

Three stories to expand your worldview, delivered daily. Matt Galloway cuts through a sea of choice to bring you stories that transcend the news cycle. Conversations with big thinkers, household names, and people living the news. An antidote to algorithms that cater to what you already know — and a meeting place for diverse perspectives. In its 20 years, the Current has become a go-to place for stories that shape and entertain us. Released daily, Monday to Friday.


The Current is produced in Toronto, Ontario, Canada — and has recently recorded live shows about the Canadian election in Surrey and Burnaby BC. And shows to come in Oshawa and the 905, Red Deer, Alberta, Quebec City and Halifax.

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Ringkasan episode

Host Matt Galloway interviews constitutional lawyer Keith Wilson about the upcoming Alberta referendum on independence. Wilson discusses his motivations for joining the movement, addresses criticisms regarding negotiations with US officials, and argues that the vote is part of a long-term journey toward constitutional change. The episode also features guests Monty Solberg and Senator Paula Simons, who discuss the complexities of the 10-ballot voting process, recent rally turnout, and the political implications of the 'nine questions' presented to voters. The conversation concludes with an examination of political polarization and the potential for a post-vote coalition in Alberta.

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I really do think that Alberta has phenomenal potential. But we're being held back by Ottawa and we're held back because of weaknesses in the constitution and the confederation.

00:02:32 · Wilson explains his core political belief that Alberta's economic and social progress is hindered by its current constitutional relationship with Canada.

The fact that I'm sitting here with Matt Galloway is exhibit A in the fact that I feel we're winning, that we're making progress because we are having these candid discussions.

00:06:51 · Wilson defends his claim of 'winning' by pointing to the increased visibility and mainstream media discussion of the independence movement.

And the process of voting itself is, as I've politely said on Blue Sky, Baroque.

00:18:43 · Senator Paula Simons describes the extreme complexity and difficulty of the upcoming 10-ballot referendum process.

The message we're sending is that Alberta is an unreliable economic partner.

00:24:41 · The speaker warns that the ongoing separation debate could lead to capital and talent flight from the province.

There are systemic structural problems in confederation. We do not solve them by having a strop and insulting all of our other confederation partners.

00:25:39 · Senator Simons argues that while grievances within Canada exist, they should be addressed through cooperation rather than alienation.

Episode

10019-

Will Alberta be better off staying in or leaving Canada?

Host Matt Galloway interviews constitutional lawyer Keith Wilson about the upcoming Alberta referendum on independence. Wilson discusses his motivations for joining the movement, addresses criticisms regarding negotiations with US officials, and argues that the vote is part of a long-term journey toward constitutional change. The episode also features guests Monty Solberg and Senator Paula Simons, who discuss the complexities of the 10-ballot voting process, recent rally turnout, and the political implications of the 'nine questions' presented to voters. The conversation concludes with an examination of political polarization and the potential for a post-vote coalition in Alberta.

16 Okt 2026
10018-

Will Alberta stay in Canada?

This episode explores the intense political division in Alberta as the province approaches a referendum regarding provincial autonomy and potential independence from Canada. Through interviews with local residents, farmers, and constitutional experts, the report captures the conflicting perspectives of those who feel unheard by Ottawa versus those who fear the economic and social consequences of separation. The discussion also examines the impact of separatist rhetoric on Indigenous communities, specifically the Siksika Nation, and highlights concerns regarding referendum questions related to immigration and public services. The episode concludes with a debate on the potential for capital flight, talent loss, and the long-standing historical nature of Alberta's independence movement.

16 Okt 2026
10017-

Basking in the "Small Stuff" can make a big difference

Host Rebecca Zandbergen interviews author Ian Bogos about his book, 'The Small Stuff,' exploring the importance of finding gratification in small, sensory moments. The conversation examines how modern automation and digitization have led to a 'dematerialization' of our lives, disconnecting us from physical engagement with the world. The episode discusses shifting from a goal-oriented mindset to one focused on sensory connection, using phenomena like ASMR as an example of normalizing presence in the moment. Ultimately, Bogos suggests that finding contentment does not require a different life, but rather a slightly different way of living the life we already have.

15 Okt 2026
10016-

What time is it in Canada?

An episode of The Current Podcast featuring an interview with Joseph DeConinck, Emeritus Professor at the University of Ottawa, regarding the physiological and practical implications of daylight saving time. As various Canadian provinces prepare for upcoming clock changes, the discussion explores how shifting light towards the evening affects the human biological clock, sleep research, and health outcomes. The conversation examines the evolutionary necessity of morning light for synchronization and addresses the potential negative impacts on productivity, school children, and economic factors like air conditioning usage. DeConinck references historical precedents in Russia and the United States to argue against permanent shifts to daylight saving time.

15 Okt 2026
10015-

Black Hawk down

The Canadian government's decision to pause a multi-billion dollar deal for American-made Black Hawk helicopters has sparked debate over whether the move is a strategic political maneuver during sensitive trade negotiations or a failure to provide necessary military equipment. Experts weigh the implications of this pause against the backdrop of shifting U.S. political landscapes and the potential risks of long-term indecision in procurement. The discussion further explores the deep-seated cultural and institutional reliance of the Canadian armed forces on the United States, noting that maintaining interoperability requires navigating a changing bilateral relationship. Speakers address the potential for increased protectionism in the U.S. and the historical pattern of Canadian indecision regarding major military purchases like the F-35.

15 Okt 2026