Today in TO: Toronto's News Podcast

On this episode of Today in TO it's all about the comedy. Host Dani Stover is joined by a rising voice in comedy and a Toronto native, Hassan Phills. They get into what the Toronto comedy scene is like, how he's able to bring his unique background into his material and how it feels to sell out one of Toronto's historic theatres for his new show, Eidiot Mubarak And for the final act, content producer Glenn Bragonier takes you on a tour of the Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre Centre, and why it's one of the last of its kind in the world.

Toronto is not only considered a "global" city, but a magnet that draws in and retains people looking for a desirable to work and live. On this episode of Today in TO host Dani Stover breaks down the 4 different types of global cities, how Toronto fell into the magnet category, and if we will continue to attract and retain talent...or do the other things magnets can do...repel. And content producer Glenn Bragonier helps to explain what a sister city is, and who Toronto has paired up with.

On this episode of Today in TO host Dani Stover turns her eagle eye at Toronto's most recent...and elusive residents. A pair of bald eagles are nesting on the shores of Lake Ontario along the city's waterfront for the first time in recorded history! Dani explains why this is such a big deal and positive sign, and why the city is keeping the nest's location a secret. And content producer Glenn Bragonier reveals one of the many ecological secrets Toronto has to offer, Tommy Thompson Park.

On this episode of Today in TO host Dani Stover wastes no time and dives right into it...should we be paying more money at restaurants to offset carbon emissions? Well, that's what one popular pizzeria has decided to do...and it has people pretty divided if it's a good idea...or even the right approach to addressing this issue. And speaking of pizza in Toronto, Content Producer Glenn Bragonier will take you foodies and za lovers down memory lane to Vesuvios...one of the first pizzeria's to open up in Toronto.

On this episode of Today in TO Dani Stover dives into a recent PSA released by the Toronto Police Service warning citizens to not just film crimes and post them online but Dani questions if this is advice we really should follow. We've all heard of surge prices for Ubers and rideshares...but what about surge prices for fast food? Well, one major fast-food chain has decided that they will explore raising food prices during busy hours....but how could that effect customers...or business. Well, Dani had the same question and she'll dive right into it for the good and the bad? And speaking of burgers...Content Producer Glenn Bragonier will bring you back to one of Ontario's most famous fast-food chains...and he might even sing it to you too!

Today in TO presents... Bad Parents! Who is “Professor Booty Smack? And how do you say no to a pet?! Being a parent never gets easier, but at least we have each other! If you can't get enough of us, we also have a morning show you can check out on Q107 from 05:30am-10am Mon-Fri. We love hearing from you! Contact: badparents@curiouscast.ca for any funny stories to share, ideas of what topics you want to hear from us, and anything that involves parenting. You can find the podcast here: https://link.chtbl.com/badparents

On this episode of Today in TO host Dani Stover takes a look at Toronto's skyline, starting off with the new TD Tower that has become the centre of much debate...is it beautiful, or does it look like Gumby's head? Next, she takes a look at the crown jewel of Toronto, the CN Tower. It began construction 51 years ago, and continues to stand as a strong and proud beacon of Canadian identity. And finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier fills you in on how Toronto's founder may also be the first person in North America to celebrate Valentine's Day...with a spy!

It's a new month, but housing is still a problem in Toronto. Host Dani Stover takes you back on the early plans the province had to build homes, how it evolved into the now infamous greenbelt scandal, and why the GTA has plenty of available land without encroaching on protected green space. Next, we now know how many FIFA matches will be held in Canada, and it's way less than our southern neighbours. But Dani asks the important question...do we really want more? And finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier brings you back to the creation of the BMO Field, and what it will become when the FIFA World Cup games are being played.

On this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover turns her focus on Ashley Jansen. Dani breaks down how this former educational assistant was falsely accused of sexually assaulting a student, was recently acquitted, and still has her life ruined for not committing a crime. After that, content producer Glenn Bragonier will fill you on in who John Joseph Kelso is, and how he helped to create the Children's Aid Society of Toronto over 100 years ago.

The city of Toronto has finally laid out its budget, and the Toronto Police Service is getting less than it asked for. Host Dani Stover breaks down what's changed this year, why the Chief is saying this will only make crime worse...and if that's actually true. Next, there's a new drinking trend taking place...but it's not what you drink but what you drink it out of. Dani explores why the Stanley Cup has become an international sensation now, even though it has been around for over 100 years. And to close it off, content producer Glenn Bragonier looks back into the history of the Toronto Police Service, and how the oldest metropolitan police force in North America came to be.

On this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover speaks with three of Toronto's top drag superstars, including two queens who were on the most recent season 4 of Canada's Drag Race. So fair warning, there are spoilers ahead. Dani and the Queen's talk about what its like to be on tour, how to put on an epic show, and the pressure of competing on the national stage. You'll also find out where they are eating, shopping, and dancing when they're in Toronto. Afterwards, content producer Glenn Bragonier will fill you in on who Andrew Carnegie is, how he's tied to the city of Toronto and where you can find Toronto Public Library's oldest building. For tickets to Solid Gold with Tynomi Banks, click here.

On this episode of Today in T.O. host Dani Stover tells a story about a chance run-in with someone you might consider a Toronto celebrity at the mall, while outside people gathered to protest the ongoing violence in Gaza. Next, it's budget time in Toronto, which also includes the Toronto Police operating budget. Dani dives into why the TPS is requesting tens of millions of dollars more, how this could end up raising municipal taxes and if this is the best way to spend taxpayer money. Finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier explores the relics and ruins of Toronto in the Guild Park and Gardens, where you can see everything from old signs and entrances...to a full outdoor Greek theatre.

If there's money to be made, chances are organized crime will want a piece of it…call it the mob, the mafia, the costa nostra, or “this thing of ours,” these groups, these families are close to the action in some way… Construction, drugs, alcohol, prostitution, protection rackets, gambling, loan sharking, tax fraud, stock manipulation, corruption of public officials, porn—you name it and there's a boss and a family that's looking for a taste if not for outright control… One thing that I didn't include on that list is the entertainment industry…I mean, just look at the stories involving Vegas and Atlantic City…stories about movies and studios…and mobsters who are fans of the music industry… The mob has been involved in music almost since the beginning…as soon crime families began to evolve, consolidate, and exercise power in the late 1800s, hooks were put into performers, composers, venues, and later, record labels… Money came from shakedowns, skims, theft of copyright, counterfeiting, and fraudulent bookkeeping…businesses, careers, and lives were ruined…people got hurt…and some people died… Show contact info: X (formerly Twitter): @AlanCross Website: ajournalofmusicalthings.com Email: Alan@alancross.ca

It's 1986 and Michael Morrison is offered the opportunity of a lifetime. A chance to leave his life of poverty in Newark and start afresh. It's a job offer he can't afford to refuse. Michael has no idea what this new job has in store. But he soon realizes: he's just joined ‘the biggest gang in America'. Join Seren Jones to hear Michael's story and find out what it means to be both Black and Blue. Contact: Email: blackandblue@curiouscast.ca Facebook: @BlanchardHouseStories Instagram: @BlanchardHouseStories X (formerly Twitter): @BlanchardTweets Blanchard House website: blanchard-house.com

On June 15, 2011, riots broke out in Vancouver following Game 7 of the NHL Stanley Cup final downtown after The Canucks were defeated by the Boston Bruins in a stunning 4-0 win. A report found that total damage caused by the riot was just over $3.7 million. There were 112 businesses and 122 vehicles damaged, and 52 assaults were reported against civilians, police and emergency personnel. On this episode of What happened to…? Erica Vella speaks with those who were in the ground experienced the riot first hand and learns more about the push for change and accountability following the riots. Find out more at https://globalnews.ca/news/9899622/what-happened-to-2011-vancouver-riots/

On this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover starts off on a sensitive subject, the trial of Kenneth Law. Dani speaks with Matt Carty, a reporter with Global News about Law being charged with not only selling poison, but the murders of multiple people throughout the province...and potentially the world. And how would you feel going to the Rob Ford Stadium? Well, there is a possibility that it could become a real place soon, but not everyone is on board with it. Dani dives into the very public and controversial history of the late mayor, and if he is really the best person to rename the stadium after. Speaking of Rob Ford...do you remember one of his most controversial press conferences? Well, content producer Glenn Bragonier does, and he'll take you through what happened and why it was said...on live TV.

It's a new episode of Today in TO, and host Dani Stover doesn't waste any time hopping right to it. The Toronto Kangaroo that is. Or to be more exact and less punny, the female kangaroo that was hopping our Durham Region. First, Dani jumps right into the obvious topic, exploring why its escape and roaming around captured the attention and interest of so many people. Next, instead of talking about how funny this is, and why it quickly became a viral sensation. Dani explores how the tallest marsupial native to Australia found its way to Canada, what role roadside zoos have to play in all of this, and if we need to change the laws to better protect these creatures. And finally, it's just shy of 11 years since Toronto's Ikea monkey took the world by storm and broke the internet, and Content Producer Glenn Bragonier fills you in on what happened, and where stylish little Darwin is living now.

It's a new episode of Today in TO and the city finally got rid of the highways...but in a good way. Host Dani Stover tells you about the new deal Premier Ford and Mayor Chow worked out that will save Toronto billions of dollars, and why it still may have come at too high of a price. And how do you sell a house that has ghosts, spirits and other spectres? Dani answers this age-old question by letting you know about Toronto's only psychic real estate agent, and why he specializes in selling houses with ghostly squatters. Finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier reveals how one property owner doing some minor home renovations discovered they actually might live in a house older than the city itself!

When over $20 million in gold and cash goes missing, who's responsible? On this episode of Today In TO host Dani Stover takes on this issue and talks about why Air Canada says it's not them, and why Brinks says it is. But while the city is losing its gold, it's holding onto its brass. Dani Stover talks about why the Brass Rail Tavern, one of the few remaining strip clubs in Toronto might be granted heritage status...and shares a personal story from another similar establishment. Finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier looks back on the short time when 4-blocks of Yonge Street were known as the "Sin Strip" of the city.

Big changes are coming for people in Ontario, and Today in T.O. will help you keep track of it all. Bad Boy, a staple in the GTA, is filing for bankruptcy! But what does this mean for consumers who have placed orders? And then, sources say that the provincial government is planning to get rid of The Beer Store! If that happens, where will you be able to purchase your favourite brews? Host Dani Stover pushes through the noise and helps to make sense of all the changes...and what it will mean for you. Speaking of The Beer Store, content producer Glenn Bragoiner takes you through its 96-year history, including what it was originally called...and who owns it.

Did you know there are about 75-speed cameras set up around the city, and they've not only helped to save lives...but also saved tens of millions of dollars for Toronto? On this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover starts by talking about these cameras, how they gave out over a thousand tickets a day...and who the big perpetrators are. Next, it's safe to say that most people would agree a 50-storey skyscraper right in a flight path is a bad idea. So why did the Ford government dish out an MZO that allowed for just that? Dani helps to explain what an MZO is, why this condo tower almost hindered an airport and ultimately what it has to do with a wedding. And finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier takes you on a ride through the history of Canada's largest international airport, and what it has to do with Canadian rock legends.

Did you know there are giants in this city? On this episode of Today in TO host Dani Stover tells you all about the Giants of Jordan, the four stoic faces that have watched over Toronto for the better part of a century in the heart of the financial district. She'll also tell you how to catch a glimpse of them, and where they even come from. While the Giants of Jordan watch over the city, someone else has their eye on the highways. After a meeting with Mayor Oliva Chow, sources are suggesting that Premier Doug Ford might be willing to take on part of the cost of the Gardiner and DVP. But why is the province switching its position now...and how much money could this move save the city? Dani Stover helps to make sense of what might be in the works and also tells you the one thing Ford and Chow agree on. And finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier explores the history and transformation of the Port Lands, which went from lush marshland to underutilized lakefront.

Toronto has a rental shortage, and in record numbers, landlords are evicting their tenants on very specific grounds! Host Dani Stover breaks down exactly what an N12 eviction is, and why it can allow bad landlords to easily evict good tenants. Next, with winter fast approaching does Toronto have a plan in place to help the homeless? Dani explores what the shelter situation is looking like, what the city has planned to help out all the refugees and asylum seekers, and what you can do to help. And finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier brings you on a brief ghost tour of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario...Queen's Park.

On this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover digs into boring machines...literally. She helps to uncover how something that cost $3 million...didn't complete its job and broke somehow ended up costing closer to $25 million! After that, city council recently voted to freeze the number of rideshare vehicles that will operate on the streets. Dani Stover takes arguments from both sides to help make sense of everything and how it will affect you. And finally, content producer Glenn Bragonier takes you on a ride with Toronto's first taxi service, and its connection to the underground railroad.

Toronto is almost finished building a new well, and host Dani Stover will explain exactly why it's a lot more impressive than it sounds. She is joined by Anthony Casalanguida, the General Manager of The Well and he helps to explain this massive project, how it will be used for residential and commercial use and its other many amazing features. And producer Glenn Bragonier takes you just a short walk down history lane to the birthplace of Canada's first Black MP, Lincoln Alexander.

On this episode of Today In T.O. host Dani Stover wastes no time and gets right into the recent announcement on the Eglington LRT...which was that there was no announcement. But while Metrolinx projects create dead space in the city, Dani Stover explores how to literally make something out of nothing. Mitchell Marcus, the Executive Director of Site Activation and Programming at Northcrest Developments joins Dani to talk about "meanwhile use", and how it will help Downsview become a thriving community. He also talks about a great art-inspired mini-put course in the Hanger District that you can go to for FREE by clicking here and reserving your spot. And while Dani explores the future of Downsview, producer Glenn Bragonier tells you about its history and the Beavers it created that ruled the skies.

On this episode of Today in T.O. host Dani Stover is joined in studio for an interview with Toronto legend, Director X to talk about his new show, Robyn Hood. Dani and X go into why he chose to retell the story of Robin Hood, how he responds to the challenges of creating and a surprising person he would like to work with. Next, the Greenbelt scandal continues. The Ford administration has lost a number of its cabinet and aides due to ongoing investigations, and it may not be over yet. Dani breaks down what's happened so far, who's been shuffled about and what could be next in the ongoing revelations. Finally, producer Glenn Bragonier gives a brief update on the Japanese Canadian Centennial Temple Bell, and why you won't be seeing it around for the next little while.

Nuit Blanche is upon us, and the streets of Toronto will be once again filled with unique pieces of art. Today in TO host Dani Stover speaks with Heidi Reitmaier, the executive director of "Myseum of Toronto" about what installations people should check out and how one...or 52 to be accurate, are connected to the theme of the year. After that, Dani Stover explores why we not only need to protect the arts in this city but the artists also. She is joined by Grace Lee Reynolds, the CEO, and Brooke Duval, the Executive Director of the Toronto Artscape Foundation. They tell Dani how hard it can be for artists to live and create in Toronto, what organizations like the Toronto Artscape Foundation do to protect the culture, and what you can do too. Finally, producer Glenn Bragonier fills you in on the weird and interesting history of a building on Dupont that will soon be demolished, but at one point helped the Allies win World War II...amongst many other things.

On this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover turns her attention toward the still-developing scandal surrounding the Ford government selling off sections of the Greenbelt. First, she catches you up to speed on how this became such a huge issue, who the big players are and why the premier could find himself in some hot water. Next, Dani dives into the 2018 provincial mandate letters, which were recently acquired by Global New's own Colin D'Mello & Isaac Callan. Dani gets right into why these letters matter and why the Ford government might not want them out in the public. And finally, producer Glenn Bragonier takes you on a ride down the history of the Don River, and the constant fight to keep it alive.

On this episode, host Dani Stover speaks with Sebastian Biasucci, the marketing and event manager with Neighbourlink. Sebastien tells Dani about what Neighbourlink is all about, who it benefits and why it's always a good idea to get to know your neighbours. And content producer Glenn Bragonier takes you back to the family that built up the land where York University now stands.

FoodShare and 640 Toronto teamed up to raise money that will help support some of the many initiatives that the food justice organization provides. FoodShare's quest is to build a city where everyone can feed themselves, their loved ones, and their communities — with dignity and joy. Plus, you'll find out what's growing at Flemo Farm, a small plot of land in a hydro corridor in the heart of the city.

On this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover speaks to an actual Pokémon master...specifically the voice actress of Ash Ketchum for the past 17 years Sarah Natochenny. Sarah tells Dani what it was like being the lead voice in one of the most famous cartoons, how she feels now that shes moving on and which Pokémon is her favourite. And the New York Knicks are accusing the Toronto Raptors of planting a "mole" in their organization to steal trade secrets! So to help understand what that all means, Dani will break down the allegations, who the key players are and what ramifications this could have. Finally, producer Glenn Bragonier takes you on a quick dip into the past to visit Toronto's history with basketball including the team that preceded the Raptors.

In this episode, Host Dani Stover dives back into the controversy surrounding the Greenbelt after the release of the scathing report by Ontario's Auditor General Bonnie Lysyk. Dani helps to make sense of why the AG was investigating these Greenbelt deals, which minister the opposition is demanding resign and what Doug Ford has to say about it...and of course a few Star Wars references. And producer Glenn Bragonier reflects on over 150 years of the CNE as we draw near to the opening day of the season.

In this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover starts off taking a look at Festival Eritrea Toronto, which was supposed to be a weekend-long celebration of Eritrean culture, but dissolved into violence after protesters crashed the event...twice. Dani helps to break down what happened, and more importantly, why. And the one ring to rule them all was found in Toronto, and sold to Post Malone! Oh, I forgot to mention that it was a one-of-a-kind Magic The Gathering card. Dani helps to explain why this card was so rare, and why Post Malone purchased it for over $2 million! And finally, producer Glenn Bragonier gives you insight into the largest sports card and memorabilia convention in all of Canada and when it got started.

On this episode, employees at Metro Grocery stores across Toronto have gone on strike to try and improve wages in light of record profits. Host Dani Stover dives into why the negotiations fell through, what's happening at the affected Metro stores and if this will further affect high food prices. And a new beer tax has hit Ontario....and it's making the Doug Ford promise of "Buck-A-Beer" even less of a reality. Dani Stover speaks with Troy Burtch a Sr Manager with Great Lakes Brewery on how this affects local breweries, if its helpful or not....and also what the geniuses at Great Lakes have brewing.

On this episode of Today in TO, host Dani Stover starts off speaking with Emily Alfred, the Sr. campaigner with the Toronto Environmental Alliance. Dani and Emily break down Ontario's new recycling program, how existing loopholes make it ineffective & why we might need to rethink the three "R's". Next, Dani Stover will tell you about a new three "R's" that we might all need to start learning if we really wish to address the rising issue of food insecurity in Toronto. And finally, producer Glenn Bragonier will give you a brief history on the early days of garbage collection in Toronto...and what it has to do with cholera.

The entertainment industry in both Canada and the United States is in treacherous waters. In America, both the WGA (Writers Guild of America) and SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) are on strike. While in Canada, commercial actors have been locked out of work due to ongoing disputes between ACTRA (Alliance of Cinema, Television and Radio Artists) and the ICA (Institue of Canadian Agencies). Host Dani Stover, breaks down both issues and how they both are increasingly important for the rights and careers of thousands of actors.

On this episode, host Dani Stover speaks one-on-one with Lorraine Lam, an outreach worker and case manager in the downtown east area of Toronto. Lorraine helps break down just how difficult it can be for people struggling, how bad the shelter system actually is and why some outreach programs might need to rethink their definition of "unhoused" if they really want to help people.

This historical, true crime podcast hosted by Kru Williams from History Television's hit original series Deadman's Curse: The Legend of the Lost Gold investigates the curse and legend surrounding the lost gold mine of Pitt Lake. On their quest they're joined by members of the Stó:lō and Katzie First Nations, historians and cultural experts of diverse backgrounds, as they sort fact from fiction and give Slumach a voice from the other side of the veil. You'll hear about how an Indigenous prospector, accused of murder set a curse on anyone who searched for his hidden gold just before he was hanged. Over a century later, a prospector, a mountaineer, a truth-seeker and a way-shower band together to walk the same paths of those who went looking for Slumach's cursed gold and never returned find how a single bullet was the catalyst for a 150-year-old mystery. Click here to find it on your favourite podcast app.

After weeks of this byelection, we finally know who our new mayor will be...Olivia Chow! And now host Dani Stover can look back and see who are the other winners, who are the losers, and how life could change after Chow officially takes the top seat.

We are less than a week away from finding out who the new mayor of Toronto will be, and the race is getting tighter with each passing day. And a submarine on a research mission to the Titanic lost communication with the research team within an hour and a half of disembarking. They are running out of oxygen and the rescuers are scrambling to find them. On this week's episode host Dani Stover dives into who are the top contenders in the mayoral race, why the research submarine was going to the Titanic and how long those people have left.

It's becoming a bit of a weird year for Toronto. A Toronto waterfront development project is being discussed, and that's an area the size of the downtown core. And this is building to be a record breaking wildfire season, but what's it like to combat these blazing infernoes? Host Dani Stover dives into these stories and more to help you stay on top of the issues that are developing Today in T.O

It's Pride Month, a time when we should be focusing on being inclusive, tolerant and loving to everyone. Instead, the York Catholic District School Board has decided not to fly the Pride flag. And the fear of homophobia and hate is so high, the Pride Parade organizers even got federal funding to help beef up security...what is going on? Host Dani Stover breaks down why the school board decided to vote against flying the flag, who they believe they are protecting, and why we are seeing homophobic hate on the rise.

On this episode, host Dani Stover dives into the many debates that the top 6 mayoral candidates have had this past week, and highlights which, if any of the candidates came out on top. Dani also looks into a contentious issue that has been a growing problem since the start of the pandemic, homeless encampments. Looking beyond the eyesore they can be in public parks, Dani touches on the root problems of homelessness and why villainizing these vulnerable people does nothing to address the issue.