The Current

"When the Forest Thrives, We Thrive"

UBC forest ecologist Suzanne Simard's viral TED talk about forests as communities turned her into a "celebrity scientist" and taught the world how to think differently about trees. Now she's written a new book, arguing that the way we harvest and cut down those trees urgently needs to change. We talk to her about what she's learned about logging from indigenous colleagues — and whether politicians and the logging industry are ready for her message.

How the feds are spending your money

Canada's finance minister has tabled a spring economic update with a smaller than expected deficit. We break down what's in it for Canadians — and what it will cost you. We talk to Catherine Cullen, host of CBC’s The House, and Sahir Khan, Canada's former Assistant Parliamentary Budget Officer and co-founder of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy.

A headband that translates thoughts into action

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) have been around for more than 50 years. Calgary doctor Dion Kelly developed Think 2Switch, an app allowing kids with disabilities, like Claire Sonnenberg, to control devices with their thoughts alone and play an active role in life. We’ll talk about the possibilities this technology can bring.

Why does Canada need a sovereign wealth fund?

Prime Minister Mark Carney says a sovereign wealth fund will ensure Canadians benefit from the country's future prosperity. Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre says it will become an expensive Liberal slush fund. CBC reporter Peter Armstrong breaks down the details. Investor John Ruffolo tells us the benefits and potential pitfalls.

Former running phenom Mary Cain on safe sport

Mary Cain was a record-breaking running phenom — the fastest girl in America at one point. Then at 23, she went public with her allegations against her coach of physical and emotional abuse. She shares her story of a toxic athletic culture — and what has to change to keep young athletes safe.