Inside the Village - A weekly podcast featuring newsmakers in Ontario

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Where all news is local, and no topic is off-limits. Join us every week for a unique podcast that explores the most important stories of all: the ones right in your neighbourhood. A rundown of the best local journalism—big and small—from Village Media newsrooms across Ontario.

Village Media Inc.


    • May 28, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 33m AVG DURATION
    • 114 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Inside the Village - A weekly podcast featuring newsmakers in Ontario

    ‘Nightmare' finally over for man wrongfully charged in Dominican Republic

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 32:27


    Send us a textWelcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: Free at last.A nightmare vacation for a Burlington, Ont. man has finally come to an end — 71 days after he was arrested in the Dominican Republic and wrongfully accused of drug trafficking.David Bennett was innocent all along, but even after local authorities withdrew the charges, he spent weeks waiting for permission to finally fly home.Bennett's wife, Jane Wilcox — who worked furiously behind the scenes to advocate for his release — joined our podcast back in March to talk about the case. She joins us again tonight — this time with her husband, who is safely back in Burlington but still struggling to process all that has happened.Bennett walks us through the details of his arrest, life inside a Dominican jail cell, and what advice he has for fellow Canadian travellers.WATCH: ‘It's a nightmare,' says wife of Ontario man facing drug charges in DominicanInside the Village — hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media — is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Is this the solution to countering Trump's tariffs?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2025 30:58


    Send us a textWelcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: the urgent push to break down interprovincial trade barriers.Yes, you read that right: this week's show is a detailed discussion about interprovincial trade barriers.Why? Because a lot of people are trumpeting them as a key front in the battle against Donald Trump's punishing tariffs. WATCH: Mark Carney joins our podcast to talk Trump, tariffsSimply put, interprovincial trade barriers are things that make it difficult to move goods, services and labour across provincial lines. These barriers can include food production regulations, how truck drivers are licensed, and protectionist measures regarding alcohol sales.In recent weeks, multiple politicians have claimed that breaking down those trade barriers could add $200 billion to Canada's GDP. Ontario Premier Doug Ford threw out that figure this week when he announced a new agreement with Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew.Prime Minister Mark Carney has also said that bulldozing interprovincial trade barriers could more than offset the damage done by Trump's tariffs.Is that true? Or just a nice soundbite? We ask Moshe Lander, an economics professor at Concordia University in Montreal.We ask him a lot of other questions, too. Inside the Village — hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media — is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Measles is back with a vengeance, and we all know why

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2025 29:28


    Send us a textThis week on our 'Inside the Village' podcast: Eradicated nearly three decades ago, measles cases are soaring — fuelled by COVID fatigue and misinformation that spreads faster than the virus itself.Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: The spread of measles misinformation.Eradicated nearly 30 years ago, measles is back with a vengeance. The highly contagious virus is making a global resurgence, and Ontario is no exception.Since last October, the province has reported 1,440 cases of the disease, triggering questions about whether the Ford government is doing enough to keep residents informed — and promote vaccination.After 1998, Canada considered the disease eliminated because the vast majority of people received the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine. But in recent years, Ontario has recorded a steep decline in vaccination rates among children under 7, with only 70 per cent immunized against measles in 2023-24.Why are so many parents refusing to have their children vaccinated against a potentially deadly virus? That is one of the many questions we asked Dr. Zahid Butt, an infectious diseases expert and professor in the School of Public Health Sciences at the University of Waterloo.If you're looking for factual information about the ongoing outbreak, this interview is a must-watch.​Inside the Village — hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media — is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    As election day looms, Mark Carney joins our podcast for an exclusive chat

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2025 23:53


    Send us a textOn Monday, Canadians will cast their ballots in what many are calling the most important election in generations.If you believe the polls, this is a tight two-horse race between Mark Carney's Liberals and Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives.This morning, Carney visited Sault Ste. Marie for a campaign stop at Algoma Steel, the city's largest employer. After the press conference, the Liberal Leader sat down for a wide-ranging interview with Village Media's Inside the Village podcast.You can watch the full interview above, or listen to the audio version wherever you find your favourite podcasts.For the record, we reached out to Poilievre's team multiple times during the campaign to invite him on the show. No one responded.Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Want to see more video features from Village Media? Please subscribe to our YouTube channel.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Steve Paikin has spent decades preparing for this moment

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2025 33:01


    Send us a textThis week on our 'Inside the Village' podcast: The moderator for next week's English-language leaders' debate tells us how he gets ready, what can go wrong — and his strategy for keeping things fair.Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: Prepping for the big showdown.Next week will be a crucial one in the ongoing federal election race, as party leaders take the stage for back-to-back debates on Wednesday and Thursday in Montreal.First up will be the French debate, moderated by Radio-Canada's Patrice Roy, at 8 p.m. on April 16. The English-language debate will air the following night at 7 p.m., moderated by TVOntario's Steve Paikin.How will the format work? What kind of preparation is going on behind the scenes? Paikin joins us on this week's podcast to answer those questions — and a lot more.Thursday's debate will be Paikin's ninth as moderator (four federal, five provincial). And yes, he still gets butterflies.Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Want to see more video features from Village Media? Please subscribe to our YouTube channel.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Buy Canadian? It feels so good — and might actually make a difference

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2025 35:28


    Send us a textThis week on our 'Inside the Village' podcast: As Donald Trump hits us with tariffs and muses about Canada becoming the 51st state, shoppers on this side of the border are punching back.Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: How to "Buy Canadian" — and why this boycott might actually stick.Although Donald Trump struck a much more respectful tone on Friday after a phone call with Prime Minister Mark Carney, the U.S. President has spent the past two months threatening Canada with tariffs and incessantly musing about how our country should become the 51st state.On this side of the border, many of us have vowed to fight back by shopping Canadian. Will it make difference? And how do patriotic shoppers ensure they're actually buying Canadian-made products?François Neville, an associate professor of strategic management at McMaster University's DeGroote School of Business, joins us on the podcast to answer those questions and a whole lot more.His best advice for shoppers? Be wary of "maplewashing." (Tune in and you'll understand.)Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Want to see more video features from Village Media? Please subscribe to our YouTube channel.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    ‘It's a nightmare,' says wife of Ontario man facing drug charges in Dominican

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2025 28:15


    Send us a textThis week on our 'Inside the Village' podcast: We speak to Jane Wilcox, who is fighting around the clock to clear her husband's name — and bring David Bennett home.Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: A dream vacation spirals into a nightmare.Family and friends are rallying around a Burlington man who was arrested in the Dominican Republic earlier this month and accused of drug trafficking.David Bennett was on vacation in Punta Cana with his wife, Jane Wilcox, and two other friends when they were set to fly home on March 7. But instead of boarding the plane, Bennett was hauled into an interrogation room and accused of smuggling illegal substances into the country.Authorities claim a piece of yellow luggage tagged with the name "Davi Bennett" belonged to him — an allegation his family insists is "100 per cent incorrect."More than two weeks later, Bennett is still stuck in the Dominican awaiting his next court date.“It's a nightmare," said Wilcox, a guest on this week's podcast. "He is a physically strong guy, but mentally it has taken a toll on him and his family.”SEE: Burlington man stranded in Dominican Republic faces bogus drug charges, says familyWilcox is working around the clock to get her husband home, including hiring lawyers and pressing government officials — an effort that has already cost her family more than $30,000."He's really anxious to get home," she said. "He feels like every day he is there is just a wasted day of his life that has been taken away.” You can read more about the case HERE and HERE.Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Want to see more video features from Village Media? Please subscribe to our Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Algoma Steel boss talks to us about Trump, pollution and looming job cuts

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2025 85:23


    Send us a textThis week on our 'Inside the Village' podcast: A wide-ranging conversation with Algoma Steel CEO Michael Garcia, an American citizen who holds a unique vantage point on the brewing trade war.Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: An in-depth conversation with the CEO of Sault Ste. Marie's largest employer.Michael Garcia is chief executive officer of Algoma Steel, a company that ships approximately half of its output south of the border. He also happens to be an American citizen who served in the U.S. army and earned his MBA from Harvard Business School.We invited Garcia on the podcast to talk in detail about how Donald Trump's threatened tariffs could wreak havoc on the Sault's biggest company, and why he thinks the U.S. president is so bent on protectionism.But our conversation covered a lot of other ground, too, including Algoma's shift to electric arc steelmaking and the company's legacy of pollution.Garcia also addressed the fact that as the company transitions to its electric arc furnaces over the next few years, the plant's workforce will drastically decrease — from approximately 2,700 today to roughly 1,700 by 2029.While a portion of those cuts will come through retirements, some job losses are inevitable."That's one of the most sobering parts of this transformation," Garcia said. "We've tried to be open with our employees from the very beginning, helping them understand what this means, what the journey looks like, and some idea of the timeframe that these moves will be made in.”He said his goal is to make sure the process unfolds "with openness, respect and caring for everybody involved.”"We're a family and everybody in Algoma Steel is a full, valuable member of the team right now and they'll continue to be that way until the day that they're not on the team," Garcia said. "And unfortunately, we're going to be a smaller team in the future. But we're going to be a sustainable company and we're going to be here for decades and decades.”It's a long interview — nearly 80 minutes — but the conversation provides a lot of insight into what is happening at Algoma Steel right now, and the major changes expected to occur over the next few years.Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, ​Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    INSIDE THE VILLAGE: For online gamblers, Ontario is the new Vegas

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2025 27:33


    Send us a textThis week on the podcast: As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, nearly half of all viewers in Ontario are expected to place a bet — a process that's never been easier, or more enticing.Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: Betting on the Super Bowl (and everything else).In 2022, Ontario became the first province in Canada to regulate online gambling and single-sport betting, leading to what is now a multi-billion-dollar industry.But at what cost? For all the revenue the government pockets — and the endless ads encouraging us to place a wager — is enough being done to help people struggling with a gambling addiction?Melissa Toney-Williams, the associate director of prevention programs at the Responsible Gambling Council, is our guest on this week's podcast. She answers that question and a whole lot more.Spoiler alert: She isn't betting on Sunday's Super Bowl.Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Inside the Village: Election campaign? There's a cap for that

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2025 26:49


    Send us a textThis week on our 'Inside the Village' podcast: Ontario will be in election-campaign mode over the next four weeks — and your local news outlet will be covering every step of the race.Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.On this week's episode: Election season in Ontario!Like it or not, Doug Ford is sending us back to the voting booths a lot earlier than scheduled. Your local news site is ready to cover all the angles — along with The Trillium, Village Media's bureau at Queen's Park. On this instalment of the podcast, we lay out all our plans for covering the campaign. Spoiler alert: we're excited.​Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Amid doctor shortage, medical misinformation has gone viral

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2025 29:33


    Send us a textHow bad is the country's doctor shortage? So bad that the medical misinformation business is flourishing online. Alarming new data released by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) shows that more than one-third of Canadians are getting health information from the Internet because they can't access a primary care provider. Forty-two percent have tried medical advice found online, while nearly one quarter — 23 per cent — have experienced a negative reaction after following that advice. Joining us to talk about the survey results is Dr. Joss Reimer, president of the CMA. Also the podcast this week: Get ready for an early provincial election! Premier Doug Ford is about to trigger a snap election.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Why don't we care about the homeless crisis?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2025 28:06


    Send us a textA new report has painstakingly tallied the number of Ontarians who experienced homelessness last year — and the figure is staggering: 81,515. If things stay the same, that number is expected to double over the next decade (and potentially reach 300,000 in an economic downturn). What can be done to turn things around? The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), which commissioned the report, says the fix will cost $13 billion in government funding: $11 billion over 10 years to boost the supply of affordable housing, improve transitional and supportive services, and enhance prevention programs; and $2 billion over eight years to eliminate encampments. Joining us to break down all the numbers is Lindsay Jones, director of policy and government relations at AMO. Also on the show: It's peak season for political junkies! Get your popcorn.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Kathleen Wynne weighs in — on Trump, Trudeau and tariffs

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2025 32:59


    Send us a textFrisco and Scott are back for a fourth season of Inside the Village — and we kick things off with a blast from the past. Former Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne is now a professor at the University of Toronto and has plenty of thoughts on the big political news of the week, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation and Donald Trump's looming trade war. Should Premier Doug Ford call an early election? She has a strong opinion on that, too. If you're a political junkie — or worried about the threat of tariffs after Trump is inaugurated — don't miss this episode.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    We've hit 100 episodes! Let's reminisce

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2024 57:42


    Send us a textLaunched in 2022, this news podcast has covered a lot of ground. As we mark the end of 2024 — and the release of our 100th episode — we take a look back at some or our most indelible interviews, including Ted Nolan, Gurdeep Pandher, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and an 18-year-old lottery winner named Juliette Lamour. To everyone who has listened over the years, thank you. We look forward to putting together the next 100 shows. Happy New Year!Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    You've got no mail (but we have an interesting guest)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2024 31:44


    Send us a textDelivery date unknown. That's the news at the moment when it comes to when a deal will be reached in the ongoing Canada Post strike. Both sides remain far apart on the key issues that triggered this labour dispute, and no new mediation is scheduled. Joining Scott and Frisco on the podcast this week is Jim Gallant, a member of the bargaining unit with the Canadian Union of Postal Workers. We asked him a whole lot of questions — and he didn't mail in any of his answers. If you're looking to understand more about what postal workers are fighting for, this is the interview for you. Also on this week's podcast (which just so happens to be our 100th): the launch of yet another new feature from Village Media.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    GST holiday? Not everyone is celebrating

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2024 32:58


    Send us a textIt's a tough time to be a small business owner in Canada. Surviving the pandemic was a massive hurdle in any community, town or city. Now, the stakes seem just as high with the impact of the two week old Canada Post strike, potential tariffs on goods to the US when Donald Trump becomes president, not to mention the upcoming ‘tax holiday' that many business owners say frankly just isn't worth the hassle. Dan Kelly, the president and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business joins Frisco and Scott to tell us what it all means and how small business owners are bracing for impact. Plus, we've solved your flyer problems and take a closer look at a new feature we're launching.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    You throw like a girl! Damn right

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2024 34:27


    Send us a textA new report says girls are closing the gap with boys when it comes to playing organized sports in Canada. A full 63 per cent of girls are playing sports weekly, compared to 68 per cent of boys, the report found. Although the numbers are up, the study also found there is still “more work to do.” The remaining 37 per cent of girls — nearly four in 10 — are missing out on the benefits of organized sports, a number that rises to five out of 10 by age 16. Joining us on the podcast to break down the stats is Allison Sandmeyer-Graves, the CEO of Canadian Women & Sport. She explains what still needs to be done, and how the emergence of the WNBA and the Women's Professional Hockey League have played a role in boosting participation. Also on this week's episode: the official launch of SPACES (and another project now in the works).Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    The Taylor effect: Eras Tour hits Toronto

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 26:23


    Send us a textWhen all is said and done, Taylor Swift's Eras Tour will have grossed over $2.2 billion. Every community on her tour has cashed in the concerts — including Toronto, where Swift is about to open a six-night run at Rogers Centre starting Thursday. Estimates have the economic spinoff for the Big Smoke to be over $280 million, including over $150 million in direct spending. TorontoToday reporter Alex Flood will be at opening night and joins Frisco and Scott on this week's episode of Inside the Village. Also on the show: some behind the scenes moments from our chat with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. And yes, we have invited the other party leaders to be on our show.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    EXCLUSIVE: Justin Trudeau joins us for a chat — and insists he has no intention of quitting

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2024 39:08


    Send us a textTalk about good timing. On the heels of a caucus revolt, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sat down with Frisco and Scott for a wide-ranging interview that was scheduled well in advance of all the political drama this week on Parliament Hill. Asked again if he has any intention of resigning, Trudeau was adamant he isn't going anywhere. “I am determined to lead this party into the next election because we need to put all our tools together and I am actually really excited about this fight,” he told the podcast. Apart from the big news of the week, Trudeau spent more than 30 minutes answering our questions about immigration levels, public transit, affordable housing, the U.S. presidential election — even Taylor Swift. We also dug into Trudeau's dismal polling numbers, and why he is still convinced he can turn things around and beat Pierre Poilievre in the next election (whenever that is). In one of the more candid moments of our conversation, the Prime Minister also talked about what it's like to see his name plastered on all those “F— Trudeau” flags and bumper stickers. Whichever party you support, you'll want to hear his answer.Reach out to us anytime: itv@villagemedia.caFollow: X, YouTube

    Here's a topic nobody is talking about: housing

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2024 31:10


    Send us a textIs it time to give up the dream of homeownership? Amid skyrocketing prices, scarce supply and longer mortgage terms, the goal of owning a home is slipping away from many Canadians — especially young ones. Diana Mok, a professor at the University of Guelph, says it's time for society to reevaluate whether people need to buy houses at all. She suggests we need to stop putting homeowners on a pedestal and focus on creating cohesive communities, not wealth generators. It's an interesting perspective — one that Mok discusses on this week's episode of Inside the Village. Also on the podcast: Queen's Park Today and Parliament Today join the Village Media family.

    The cost of getting cancer can be staggering

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2024 27:23


    Send us a textFighting cancer is hard enough. When the bills pile up, it's that much worse. Anyone who has been touched by cancer knows it turns your life upside down — forcing people to take time off work, pay travel bills and incur other out-of-pocket expenses. A team from Sudbury's Health Sciences North Research Institute (HSNRI) is trying to get a better understanding of just how costly cancer can be. This week on Inside the Village, Frisco and Scott are joined by Dr. Stacey Santi, one of the lead researchers, to talk about what prompted the study and what they hope to learn. Also on the podcast: the latest on TorontoToday!

    Code Blue: Hallway health care in Ontario getting worse

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 30:49


    Send us a textInternal government data shows that in January, nearly 2,000 patients per day were kept in ‘unconventional spaces' like hallways and break rooms in Ontario hospitals — the highest number ever recorded. Through a Freedom of Information Request, reporter Aidan Chamandy of The Trillium was able to piece together the current state of hallway health care across the province — a problem that Doug Ford promised to fix, if elected. Chamandy joins Frisco and Scott to break down the data and talk about the reaction to his scoop. Also on the podcast: We're getting closer and closer to our launches of SPACES and TorontoToday!

    Huge court settlement rights historic wrong

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2024 30:38


    Send us a textAfter years of court battles, the federal and provincial governments recently reached a $10-billion settlement with beneficiaries of the Robinson Huron Treaty. Simply put, members of those 21 First Nations in northern Ontario did not see an increase to annual treaty payments for nearly 150 years, even as wealth generated in their territory from mining, forestry and fishing sectors continued to grow. Earlier this month, the settlement money finally started flowing to individual beneficiaries — in many cases, more than $100,000 per person. For Scott Flamand, the payouts represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — and he's been telling anyone who will listen to think hard about where to put all that newfound money. A member of Wikwemikong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island, Flamand is a management consultant who specializes in personal finance and on-reserve housing. He joins Scott and Frisco for a fascinating conversation — not just for treaty beneficiaries, but for anyone looking to improve their money management skills. Also on the podcast this week: The countdown continues until we officially launch TorontoToday!

    The overdose crisis is about to get a whole lot worse

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2024 34:12


    Send us a Text Message.As expected, the Ford government has announced it is shutting down multiple supervised drug consumption sites across the province — and banning all new ones. For harm-reduction advocates, the decision flies in the face of years of scientific research that shows these sites lower the risk of accidental overdose, reduce the spread of infectious diseases, and provide a starting point for drug users looking for treatment and withdrawal services. Amber Fritz, the former manager of The Spot, Sudbury's now-shuttered supervised consumption site, joins Scott and Frisco to talk about what the announcement means for the many people in our communities struggling with addiction. Also on the show this week: corn hustlers!

    Running on Empty: Ontario hospital workers have nothing left in the tank

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 25:05


    Send us a Text Message.An alarming new study is out that shines a bright spotlight on the staffing crisis in Ontario hospitals. One of the study's co-authors is Dr. James Brophy, a researcher at the University of Windsor, who joins Frisco and Scott on this week's Inside the Village to talk about the findings. Burnout, fatigue, stress and anxiety are running rampant amongst healthcare workers. What's causing it and what's being done to turn things around? We also ask Brophy what he would say to Premier Doug Ford if he had five minutes of his time? Also on the podcast: the latest on SPACES — and a launch date for TorontoToday.

    Looking Back: The midway point of season three of ITV

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2024 29:46


    Send us a Text Message.This week on the show, somehow Frisco had some holidays approved so Scott and Derek have taken over the show. Given that it's the halfway point of the season, they decided to look back at some of the great guests that have appeared on ITV so far this year. From super-agers to teenagers and financial literacy to Ted Nolan and why kids aren't playing hockey as much - oh and some Gerry Dee thrown in just for good measure, it's all there. Check it out and thanks for watching every week.

    In search of “super agers” — the rare people who never seem to grow old

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2024 36:29


    Send us a Text Message.Do you know a super ager? Maybe you are one? To be honest, we hadn't even heard of the term until a few days ago — but we wanted to learn more, so we reached out to a person who knows a whole lot: Dr. Angela Roberts, a University of Western Ontario professor who is the Canadian research lead on an international study into super agers. It turns out a super ager is someone 80 or over who has the memory of someone 20 or 30 years younger. It also turns out that researchers have found quite a few of them, with the hopes of understanding more about what makes these people tick. What her team discovers could help us all live longer, more enjoyable lives. Spoiler alert: We asked Roberts to weigh in on Joe Biden's debate performance. Take a listen.

    Money 101: The real reason financial literacy is now mandatory in high school

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2024 33:42


    Send us a Text Message.This week on Inside the Village, Frisco and Scott talk dollars and cents — and more specifically, whether high school students in Ontario know enough about how money works. The Ford government recently announced that financial literacy would be a mandatory course in order to graduate. Why the change? Turns out it all began with a chance encounter at a furniture store between Premier Doug Ford and financial expert Saijal Patel. That initial meeting turned into more meetings, and eventually an announcement that many in the province welcomed. Patel — host of the podcast ‘Strictly Money' — joins us on the show to explain how it all came together, and why it's so important that teenagers learn the value of a buck. Also on the podcast this week: A huge honour for one of our journalists.

    What the puck? Way fewer Canadian kids are playing hockey these days

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2024 37:26


    Send us a Text Message.Frisco and Scott are back for another week of Inside the Village — and in the thick of the Stanley Cup finals, it's only fitting that they talk some hockey. More specifically, why are fewer Canadian kids choosing to lace em up? Stats show participation in youth hockey has dropped by nearly a quarter over the past 15 years, with more and more families choosing other sports instead. Why the dip? Is it the cost? The time commitment? The game's lingering toxic culture? We ask Simon Darnell, a professor at the University of Toronto and an expert in sports culture and sociology. If you love hockey, you won't want to miss this conversation. Also on the show this week: How squatters dashed the dreams of a first-time homebuyer in Guelph.

    Not everyone is smiling about Canada's new national dental care program

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2024 33:51


    Send us a Text Message.The federal government recently introduced its new Canadian Dental Care Plan, with the goal of providing oral health care to all. But so far, not everyone is smiling. Thousands of dentists across the country have not opted into the plan because they still have a mouthful of unanswered questions. And patients are even more confused, with many assuming — incorrectly — that the plan means free dental appointments. Dr. Maneesh Jain, president of the Ontario Dental Association, joins us to break down all the uncertainty. For the record, he hasn't joined the program either. Also on this week's show: What happens when two dozen Village Media editors gather in the same town?

    Big phish: Inside the multi-billion dollar fraud industry

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2024 28:51


    Send us a Text Message.From grandparent scams to romance frauds, phishing has become a daily part of life — forcing all of us to be constantly looking over our “digital shoulder.” Last year alone, Canadians lost more than $500 million to fraud (and that's just the small percentage of people who actually report being scammed). Jeff Horncastle has seen it all. A spokesman for the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, he joins us on the podcast to talk about why this crime is skyrocketing, how fraudsters are using generative AI to their advantage, and what you can do to protect yourself. Here's one helpful tip: If someone calls to say your grandson needs bail money, he doesn't. It's a scam! Also on the podcast: There is affordable housing out there — if you're willing to live in a nudist resort.

    School unplugged? We dissect Ontario's new cellphone ban

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2024 33:27


    Education Minister Stephen Lecce has announced a “comprehensive” crackdown on cellphones in schools that will take effect in September. According to the new rules, kids in kindergarten to Grade 6 will be required to keep phones on silent and out of sight for the entire day, while those in grades seven and up won't be allowed to use phones during class time. Will the ban work? Is it actually any different than what's already in place at schools across the province? We ask an expert: Sachin Maharaj, a University of Ottawa education professor who has spent a lot of time researching the impact of cellphones in schools. Bottom line: we have to do something, because it's absolutely clear that these devices are damaging kids' mental health and social wellbeing. Also on the podcast this week: a powerful story about a Collingwood cancer patient who chose to die on her own terms.

    Yes, Gerry Dee was a real teacher

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2024 37:49


    From Mr. D to Family Feud Canada, Gerry Dee has made audiences laugh from coast to coast. This week, the teacher-turned-comedian really hits the big time: a guest spot on Inside the Village. He drops by the show to promote a new book — Funny You Should Say That — and an upcoming comedy tour of the same name. Dee reminisces with Frisco and Scott about his time in the classroom, his jump to stand-up comedy, and what it's really like to be a Canadian celebrity. Spoiler alert: plenty of people don't recognize him on the street. Also on the podcast: the world's most prolific loser of elections — 108 and counting — is running yet again, this time in Milton, Ont.

    Is the justice system broken? We ask a judge

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2024 41:48


    A rare chance to draw back the curtain this week on Inside the Village as Frisco and Scott go one-on-one with retired Ontario judge Norm Douglas. After years as a respected prosecutor who then served on the bench, Douglas has penned his first book: You Be The Judge. Inspired by the visits he used to make to high school classes, the book recounts the details of 24 cases from his career — and asks the reader to decide. In a wide-ranging interview, Douglas shares his thoughts on numerous hot-button topics, from the state of the country's bail system to Premier Doug's pursuit of “tough” and “like-minded” judges. On a less serious note, we also discuss what “Stormin' Norman” does for fun: impersonate Elvis. Also on the podcast: a love story 75 years in the making.

    A social network that's actually social? We're building it

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2024 45:37


    On this episode of Inside the Village, we really take you Inside the Village — to talk about a massive project that Village Media has been toiling away at behind the scenes. It's called SPACES, a new kind of social media network designed to be safe and civil and 100 per cent community-powered. Simply put, SPACES is our attempt to bring back genuine local engagement, helping residents connect even deeper with the people, places, events and traditions that make their hometown so special. Joining us to talk all about it is Village Media CEO Jeff Elgie. Full disclosure: we've been asking the boss to come on our podcast for more than a year, and he finally said yes. Along with SPACES, our wide-ranging conversation touches on the state of the media industry, why the Village model works, and who he likes better: Frisco or Scott? Also on this episode: a big welcome to our latest addition to the Village family, MiltonToday.

    Thousands of Ontario students threatened with suspension — for not being vaccinated

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2024 45:32


    Remember when measles were pretty much eradicated? So much for that. The number of confirmed cases in Canada has now reached 40 — more than three times the number in 2023. Why the resurgence? A growing number of kids simply aren't getting vaccinated like they used to. The spike in cases comes just as public health agencies across the province are cracking down on elementary and high school students whose immunizations are not up to date, including shots for mumps, measles and rubella. In recent weeks, thousands of kids have received letters in the mail, warning they'll be suspended for 20 days if they don't roll up their sleeves (or if their parents don't fill out the necessary exemption forms). Joining Scott and Frisco to break it all down is Dr. Dawn Bowdish, an associate professor of medicine at McMaster University. Also on the podcast: Should Highway 400 be renamed in honour of the late Gordon Lightfoot? “Carefree Highway, let me slip away on you…”

    Should the government let you compost your dead body?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2024 29:30


    Nearly four years ago, provincial regulators started asking for public feedback on an interesting question: Should Ontario allow human composting? Although it's legal in a handful of U.S. states, no Canadian jurisdiction has given the green light to this greener alternative to burial and cremation. Could Ontario be the first? To better understand how human composting works — and why it's slowly gaining popularity — Frisco and Scott spend some time talking to Morgan Yarborough of Seattle-based Recompose, the first funeral parlour in America to allow it. Spoiler alert: a typical composted body from her facility fills the back of a pickup truck. Also on this week's episode: A huge congratulations to The Trillium, and a big welcome to Oakville News!

    Is Thursday the new Friday?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2024 33:51


    More and more companies are adopting a four-day work week to help reduce employee burnout and increase productivity — and the idea appears to be working. A new report from the non-profit think tank Infinite Potential found that only nine per cent of employees report feeling burned out at organizations that have implemented a reduced schedule at the same pay, compared to 41 per cent at workplaces with a standard 40-hour week. Joining Frisco and Scott to talk work-life balance is Joe O'Connor, CEO of the Toronto-based Work Time Reduction Center of Excellence. Also on the podcast: Is it time to allow composting of dead bodies?

    Grand Theft Auto: Ontario edition

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2024 26:29


    The numbers are staggering. In Ontario alone, more than 50 vehicles are stolen every single day. For governments of all levels, combating the problem has become a top priority. Premier Doug Ford recently warned car thieves everywhere that “we're coming after you,” and this week, the Trudeau government pledged $15-million to fight the growing problem across the country. Joining us this week to explain the gravity of the crisis — and why it's gotten so much worse in recent years — is Bryan Gast, a former OPP officer and now vice-president of investigative services at Équité Association. Gast also offers some handy tips on how car owners can better protect their wheels from wily thieves. Also on the show: A trip down memory lane with some of Village Media's most memorable Random Acts of Kindness.

    A ‘no-brainer' idea to help end homelessness

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2024 27:20


    When it comes to fighting homelessness, no idea is a bad idea. But this one is pretty good: building affordable housing — “on stilts” — over city-owned parking lots. Simply put, a municipality can lease a lot to a developer but still keep the parking spaces. Cambridge councillor Scott Hamilton put forward the novel concept at a recent meeting, and although it was voted down by a 5-4 margin, the idea has spread to other municipalities in Ontario. Hamilton joins Scott and Frisco to talk about his idea, along with Brian Doucet, an associate professor of planning at the University of Waterloo. Also on the podcast: A war of words between two Ontario college presidents — triggered by comments made on last week's episode of Inside the Village. You may want to plug your ears.

    Colleges and universities are bracing for a very rough year

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2024 52:29


    This week on Inside the Village, we dedicate another episode to a controversial subject that continues to generate plenty of headlines: international students. The federal government is determined to slash the number of student visas handed out every year — including by up to 50 per cent in Ontario. But for many cash-strapped colleges, the cap itself isn't the worst news. Here to explain the devil in the details is David Orazietti, the president of Sault College — and a former Ontario cabinet minister under Kathleen Wynne. Spoiler alert: Orazietti is digging in for a long fight with the feds. Also on the podcast: Welcome FlamboroughToday! Village Media's latest local news launch was a huge success (with no unforeseen circumcisions).

    Ted Nolan speaks his truth — about hockey, racism and reconciliation

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2024 31:50


    On this week's episode of Inside the Village, Frisco and Scott sit down for an in-depth conversation with former NHL coach of the year, Memorial Cup Champion — and now author — Ted Nolan. His new book, Life in Two Worlds: A Coach's Journey from the Reserve to the NHL and Back, is a brutally honest recollection of his life at the highest levels of our national game, and the racism he endured at points along the way. At a time when the country is grappling with the concept of truth and reconciliation, Nolan's book is a must-read — and this interview is a must-listen. Also on the podcast: Village Media is expanding yet again, this time to Flamborough. The new site goes live Feb. 6!

    Access denied: International students capped

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2024 26:26


    Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith are back for another episode of Inside the Village. The feds have announced they are putting a temporary cap on the number of international students being granted visas. This move will result in colleges and universities losing millions in revenue. How did we get here and how will that lost money be made up? Dr. Mike Moffatt from the University of Western Ontario joins us to fill in the blanks. Also, big layoffs at Algoma Steel, speed cameras and the ‘lead of the week' from one of our newest reporters.

    Blazing trails…safely

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2024 21:22


    It's the kick off to season three of Inside the Village with Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith. With winter late out of the gate this year it has dramatically impacted outdoor sports and recreational activities, particularly snowmobiling. Lisa Stackhouse from OFSC stops by for some trail talk and also some tips as we celebrate Snowmobile Safety week in Ontario. Also on the show a new site launch is in the very near future and political junkies take note, Trillium Talk is here!

    Inside the Village - A look back at the lighter side of 2023

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2023 40:00


    Welcome back to Inside the Village - and Part 2 of our Year in Review. This week we take a look at the lighter side of the news from Hockey Night in Canada's Ron MacLean to Gurdeep Pandher, the Bangra dancer from the Yukon who spread joy, hope and positivity around the world during the pandemic, to the 18 year old lottery winner from Sault Ste. Marie who gave us 48 million reasons to love her story. Join us for the last show of the season and be sure to check out the premiere of season 3 on January 10, 2024.

    Inside the Village - The year that was 2023

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2023 44:49


    Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local - and no topic is off-limits. In the latest episode, Frisco and Scott take a stroll down memory lane in Part 1 of our year end show. Looking back, we covered a lot of ground in 2023. From the birth of the Trillium to the passing of Gordon Lightfoot, the economy and inflation to one of the greatest tragedies of the year and of course Bill C-18. 

    Last call for The Beer Store?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2023 35:37


    This week on Inside the Village, there's a “seismic shift” on the horizon for alcohol sales in Ontario and it will likely start with The Beer Store. Dan Malleck, a Brock University professor and leading expert on drug and alcohol regulation, joins Frisco and Scott to talk about the 2018 campaign promise Doug Ford made regarding booze sales, and what the impacts — positive and negative — could be. Spoiler alert: we talk a lot about empties. Also on the show, Village Media shines as nominations are announced for the Canadian Online Publishing Awards. Sit back, relax and raise a glass (responsibly, of course) to this week's episode of ITV.

    Be on the lookout for these five warning signs of dementia

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2023 40:23


    By 2030, one million Canadians will suffer from dementia. By 2050, that number is expected to triple. Here's another scary stat: In 2020, care partners (including family members, friends and neighbours) spent 26 hours per week assisting older Canadians living with dementia — the equivalent to 235,000 full-time jobs, or $7.3 billion annually. Bottom line: this disease is taking a devastating toll on Canadians and the people who love them. On this week's episode of Inside the Village, Frisco and Scott talk to two experts about a lesser-known aspect of dementia research: five potential behaviour changes that could be an early warning sign in people over 50. You'll want to know what they are. Also on the podcast: This is Burlington!

    Restaurant impossible: The new reality

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2023 25:18


    The state of the economy has been a hot button issue for some time now and a new study from Dalhousie University has some alarming data from the restaurant industry. Over 50% of restaurants nationwide are operating in the red and almost 10% of respondents are no longer eating out. Frisco and Scott get the goods on the survey from Dr. Sylvain Charlebois on everything from the effects of inflation to shrinkflation on eating out. Sit back, relax and enjoy another full serving of Inside the Village!

    Justin Trudeau joins us on the podcast (sort of)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2023 38:09


    After a couple weeks off, Inside the Village is back in a big way. The Prime Minister paid a recent visit to Sault Ste. Marie, where he toured the local power utility, met with veterans at the Legion — and sat down with Frisco for a one-on-one interview. At the heart of their conversation was Bill C-18, the Liberal legislation that prompted Facebook to block all news content from the feeds of Canadian users. Considering that the Sault is home to Village Media, the largest online publisher in Canada, it was a fitting place to ask the PM whether the Online News Act was a huge mistake. Spoiler alert: he doesn't think so. Frisco and Trudeau covered a lot of other ground during their chat, including green technology, the endless opioid crisis, and what he really thinks of Pierre Poilievre. Not into politics? Don't worry. We saved some time on the show to talk about the world's longest zucchini. 

    Shooting rampage devastates the Sault

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2023 32:39


    Every week, Scott and Frisco bring you this podcast from Village Media's headquarters in downtown Sault Ste. Marie. This week, their northern Ontario city was propelled into the national news for all the wrong reasons: a mass murder-suicide that claimed the lives of three innocent children and a 41-year-old woman. In this special episode of Inside the Village, they explore what happened, why it happened, and what can be done to help the community somehow recover. Their guest is Robin Kerr, executive director of Victim Services Algoma, the organization that works behind the scenes to help people most impacted by tragedies like this. Is it time for the province to finally declare an epidemic of intimate partner violence? If the events of this week aren't convincing enough, nothing will be. 

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