Explore every episode of the podcast This is Manitoba

CBC's Darren Bernhardt speaks with host Marcy Markusa about the long, controversial history behind Winnipeg's iconic intersection. From its 19th-century roots to decades of pedestrian restrictions and shifting public opinion, Darren walks through the politics, pushback and infrastructure decisions that led to today's historic reopening of Portage and Main.

Mayor Scott Gillingham speaks with Marcy Markusa about the long-awaited reopening of Portage and Main to pedestrian traffic for the first time since 1979. He talks about the financial reasoning behind the decision, the future of Winnipeg's downtown, and what this moment means for the city's identity. The conversation also touches on accessibility concerns, transit changes and the legacy of a landmark intersection.

On today's episode:

Three Indigenous youth leaders speak with host Marcy Markusa about the importance of National Indigenous Peoples Day and the powerful role young people play in advocating for their communities. Hevyn-Lee Martens, a youth changemaker at RRC Polytech and Treaty One, Southern Chiefs Organization Youth Chief Billy Bird and Salena Starling, a youth leader and CEO of Community of Big Hearts, talk about reconnecting with culture, overcoming adversity and why recognizing Indigenous youth matters.

Also on this episode:

Students at Niji Mahkwa School in Winnipeg spent time on the land at Naawi-Oodena to mark Indigenous Peoples Day with cake, a handmade tipi and teachings that connect them to their culture. Staff and kids speak with CBC's Sid Sundance Horschig about what it means to celebrate Indigenous heritage every day.

Up first on the podcast today: the chocolate economy. Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Helen Staines, the owner of Decadence Chocolates, an artisanal chocolatier here in Winnipeg.

Her business is facing cocoa price increases of up to 400 per cent.

Also on the podcast today: With just two weeks to go before the federal election, former Conservative MP Dorothy Dobbie, former NDP MLA Erin Selby and outgoing Liberal MP Dan Vandal speak with host Marcy Markusa about what their parties are promising on crime, justice and border security. The panel talks about sentencing, border concerns, rehabilitation and how party leaders are preparing for the final debate. Dobbie, Selby and Vandal tell Marcy Markusa what they think their party will get right — and why.

First on the podcast today: Our monthly interview with Premier Wab Kinew. We ask questions about Manitoba's tariff response, the inquest into Eisha Hudson's death and the call for a landfill search for Tanya Nepinak.

Also on the podcast today: Statistics Canada says Manitoba has one of the highest rates of teen dating violence. Despite this, there are few resources to help teens escape abuse. 

Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Calgary-based psychologist Dr. Deinera Exner-Cortens. She specializes in violence prevention and healthy relationships among youth.

A Manitoba couple say they feel uneasy in Arizona, so they're selling their winter dream home. Plus, a farmer from North Dakota shares worries about tariffs from his perspective south of the border.

As candidates vie for your vote in the April 28 federal election, what do you hope they know about life in Manitoba? We asked folks in Morden for their perspectives.

As well, Bartley Kives looks at the political landscape across Manitoba right now.

And host Marcy Markusa speaks with veteran politicians Dorothy Dobbie, Erin Selby and Dan Vandal, who each make their case for why their party is the right choice for Canadians. From tariffs to the cost of living, they reflect on the issues Manitobans face as we approach election day.

Gavin Johnston, 17, speaks with host Marcy Markusa about his passion for Winnipeg Transit and his Instagram fan page dedicated specifically to Transit's Route 55. From sharing pictures of buses to creating a fan community, Johnston's take on Winnipeg Transit is sparking conversations across the city.

Also on the podcast: Mayor Scott Gillingham speaks with Marcy Markusa about key issues facing Winnipeg, including hefty property tax increases, the latest provincial budget and his push for full-time in-person work. Also, a recap of last month's discussions on federal funding for the North End sewage treatment plant and tensions with the U.S.

Premier Wab Kinew joins host Marcy Markusa for our monthly interview, where they discuss Manitoba's strategy as tariffs with the U.S. increase and the province faces tough decisions regarding energy exports. The premier also reflects on the search for Morgan Harris's remains and whether the right decisions were made in the search's early stages. Kinew also shares his thoughts on what’s ahead for Manitoba and the need for unity among Manitobans.

Have you ever wondered what goes into getting that little maple leaf label on your groceries?

Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Evelyn Soo, the executive director of Canada's Food Safety and Consumer Protection Directorate, about the different Canadian identification labels and when consumers can trust that they are buying Canadian.

Also on the podcast today: Canadian snowbirds could choose to nest somewhere else thanks to an executive order signed during Trump's first days in office.

The new law says Canadians have to register with the American government every 30 days they are in the United States or they could face civil and criminal penalties.

It flew under the radar during the uproar over some of Trump's more notable changes, such as tariffs, gender laws and abolishing government diversity, equity and inclusion policies.

We speak with Reis Pagtakhan, a Winnipeg-based immigration lawyer, about what this means for Canadian snowbirds.

The Liberal Party of Canada just elected a new leader — Mark Carney. So what does that mean for Manitobans? We speak to Winnipeg South MP Ben Carr about it.

Over the past few months, everyone's weighed in on Trump's tariffs — from economists to business owners. But what do Winnipeg teens think about the recent news cycle? Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Tara Law, a Grade 8 social studies and English teacher at George McDowell School. She tells us what she has been hearing.

The owner of a Winnipeg trucking company talks about the immediate effects of new U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. Gurbir Boparai, director of Canadian Prairie Transport, explains how these tariffs are hitting his business, which relies on cross-border shipping, and how the company is navigating the challenges just days after the tariffs were implemented.

Ottawa and most of the provinces have agreed to lift barriers that keep booze from flowing more freely across the country. Guest host Cory Funk speaks with Brock Coutts, co-owner Patent 5 Distillery in Winnipeg, about the difference this will make for his business.

A vacant lot in Winnipeg's inner city is transforming into a new home for seniors, thanks to Catherine Collins and her non-profit, Harriet Street Seniors Housing Inc. With 49 new affordable units nearing completion, Collins discusses the need for more seniors housing in the city, and how this project is helping revitalize the community.

Amelia Barnes, the owner of Prana Vida Style, a Winnipeg-based sustainable clothing store, shares her concerns about the potential impact of tariffs. With 50 per cent of her customers in the U.S. and uncertainty surrounding an exemption for less valuable purchases, Barnes is left wondering how future policies could affect her bottom line. Hear her perspective on the challenges small business owners face in a shifting economic landscape.

The impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods is presenting challenges for businesses like Emerson Duty Free. Simon Resch, the owner of this border store, shares how he's adapting to the 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods and what steps he's taking to stay afloat. We also hear about recent actions taken by the Manitoba government to support local businesses, including pulling U.S. products from liquor store shelves and offering tax deferrals.

As tariff battles heat up, Canadians may face increased financial challenges. Moshe Lander, a senior lecturer in economics at Concordia University, breaks down the potential impact on personal finances. He discusses strategies the government could adopt, such as targeted spending and tax cuts, to help consumers and businesses navigate these uncertain times, while stressing the importance of addressing specific trade issues without mixing them with unrelated concerns.

Cory Funk fills in for host Marcy Markusa today.

Are you scared yet? In this episode, strange things are happening at a historical museum — books are flying, mysterious handprints appear and there's an investigation into possible paranormal activity. Ashley Barnes, lead investigator with the Winnipeg Paranormal Group, tells us about it.

Actor Ayo Solanke speaks with host Marcy Markusa about his lead role in Bet, a new Netflix teen drama set in a high-stakes prep school. He talks about bringing his character, Ryan, to life, how Winnipeg helped him fall in love with acting, and what it means to be part of a predominantly Canadian cast.

U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods are now in effect and Manitoba businesses are already feeling the pressure. Justin Copp, co-owner of Brunswick Steel in Springfield, Man., talks about how his company is navigating the economic fallout and what it means for the industry.

Manitoba's pork producers are closely watching trade developments. With $15.5 billion in exports to the U.S. last year, nearly 1,800 Manitoba businesses rely on cross-border trade, including the province's pork industry, which shipped $439 million worth of products south. Manitoba Pork spokesperson Cam Dahl shares insights on what this could mean for producers and the broader economy.

Parents of children with disabilities are hearing the words "partial day" more often — schools recommending limited attendance for students with learning disabilities. Inclusion Canada says this trend is having serious consequences for families and kids. Host Marcy Markusa speaks with CEO Krista Carr. She explains why parents feel pushed out of the education system and what needs to change.

Also on the podcast today: Winnipeg’s rising crime rate has left many residents feeling uneasy. With violent crime in the inner city making headlines, concerns about safety are growing. Daniel Emerson, a single father, shares his perspective on what needs to change to make the community safer for families.

Search teams have uncovered what may be human remains while looking for the victims of serial killer Jeremy Skibicki at the Prairie Green landfill north of Winnipeg, where a search began in December for the remains of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran. Premier Wab Kinew met with the women's families following the discovery and joined us to discuss what this means for the search and the ongoing fight for justice.

Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Hilda Anderson-Pyrz, chair of the National Family and Survivors Circle, who shares her thoughts on what this discovery could mean for families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

The City of Winnipeg must meet key housing requirements to secure federal funding for the long-overdue North End Sewage Treatment Plant upgrade — including creating more "missing middle housing." But what does that mean, and why is it important? Host Marcy Markusa speaks with housing expert Mandy Hansen, principal at Insight Specialty Consulting. She breaks it down — who it benefits, why it's needed, and how it ties into the city's future.

But before we get to that, a new report from the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce reveals that even the uncertainty surrounding a potential 25 per cent tariff is creating financial strain for local businesses. While U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs haven't taken effect yet, many companies are already feeling the pressure. Loren Remillard, CEO and president of the chamber of commerce, breaks down the findings and what they mean for Winnipeg's economy.

Cory Funk is guest host today.

A group of Winnipeggers are rallying to combat arson in the city's North End, where a rise in fires — many in vacant and historic buildings — has sparked urgent concern. North End History is leading the charge, saying the fight against arson is also a fight to preserve Winnipeg's past. The CBC's Margaux Watt speaks with community activist Michael Redhead Champagne about why protecting these spaces matters and what's being done to stop the destruction before more history is lost.

As U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports loom, businesses brace for higher costs. A 25 per cent tariff is set to take effect next week, with additional duties on steel, auto imports and aluminum following soon after. For breweries using aluminum cans, the impact could be significant. CBC's Alana Cole speaks with Kevin Selch, founder of Winnipeg's Little Brown Jug Brewing Company, about what these tariffs mean for his business and the broader industry.

A Manitoba brewery is taking winter fun to new heights — literally. Interlake Brewing Company in Gimli has transformed its rooftop patio into a curling rink. Owner Graeme MacLean shares how the idea came to life, what it took to make it happen, why this unique twist on a classic sport is drawing in visitors and why he wanted to bring a truly Canadian winter experience to the brewery.

It has been three years since Russia invaded Ukraine.

As of December, Manitoba has welcomed nearly 29,000 Ukrainians, the provincial government says.

Anna Bieliaha came to Winnipeg in October 2022 with her 10-month-old son.

Host Margaux Watt speaks with her.

The Winnipeg Jets are hosting their annual Black History Month game.

This year, the team will honour former Jet Eldon (Pokey) Reddick.

Reddick was a goaltender for the Jets from 1986-89.

And in the late '80s, Pokey made history when he became the second Black goalie to play in the National Hockey League.

He won the Stanley Cup during his time with the Edmonton Oilers.

Now, he coaches hockey in Las Vegas, where he started Nevada's first ever high-school hockey team.

Information Radio host Marcy Markusa spoke with him.

Manitoba's manufacturing sector faces a crossroads with the potential for U.S. tariffs on Canadian exports. While 80% of what we make is shipped south, some local manufacturers, like Raber Gloves, are choosing to focus on the booming demand for Canadian-made products. Howard Raber, the maker of Manitoba's famous garbage mitts, shares his insights on navigating this shift. Plus, Terry Shaw from the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters weighs in on the growing pressures and opportunities in the industry.

Premier Wab Kinew, fresh off his visit to the White House, joins us for our monthly conversation on how these tariffs could impact Manitoba's industries and economy.

Winnipeg is seeking $150 million in federal funding for long-overdue upgrades to the North End Sewage Treatment Plant. But there’s a catch — bylaw changes may be required to access the money and that has some city councillors worried. Host Marcy Markusa speaks with St. Vital Coun. Brian Mayes, who shares his concerns about what the city might be giving up in exchange for the much-needed funding.

Also on the podcast today: A group of friends from Winnipeg made the trip to Boston to cheer on their buddy Seth Jarvis as he hit the ice for Team Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off. After a thrilling 3-2 victory over the U.S., they're heading home with unforgettable memories — plus a moment on national TV. Bryan Hanna shares the experience of supporting a friend on hockey's big stage.

Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham returns for his monthly conversation with host Marcy Markusa. After last month's big news on snow-clearing limits, what’s next? Why is the city still without a police chief? What's the future of the Granite Curling Club? Those questions and more in this conversation with the mayor.

Student absenteeism isn't just a high school problem — it starts much earlier. Brenna Frith, now principal at Valley Gardens Middle School, shares how her team at Hampstead elementary helped get more kids back in the classroom. From tackling barriers to building connections, hear what worked and why attendance matters from Day 1.

They run campaigns that say things like Canadians "put the Grand in our Forks" - but what do our closest U.S. neighbours actually think of us now? Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Julie Rygg from Visit Greater Grand Forks.

Plus: U.S. and Russian officials are discussing Ukraine’s future — without Ukraine. Now, members of Winnipeg's Ukrainian community worry that Trump's peace planning might do more harm than good. Marcy talks to Nick Krawetz, a member of Winnipeg's Ukrainian community.

Also on the podcast: Sebastian Gaskin makes his Juno Award debut. A conversation about the award, his career, and growing up in Tataskweyak Cree Nation in Manitoba.

A lot of couples have been split up by the wildfires burning in Manitoba, because one partner is needed in the community and the other has left due to the threat.

That's the case for Melanie Spence. She is a teacher who found herself stranded in Thompson, unable to return home to Tataskweyak Cree Nation.

Meanwhile, her husband, Robert Spence, is a former Tataskweyak councillor who has been helping with firefighting efforts in that community.

Also on the podcast today: Jaimie Fleuty, a Snow Lake evacuee, speaks with host Marcy Markusa about her journey since evacuating, how her home is doing, and the challenges facing her family and other communities, including Denare Beach and Creighton. She shares what she’s hearing from her community and how she’s adjusting to being away from home.

Saturday marks a moment of national pride — it's Flag Day, commemorating 60 years since the Maple Leaf was first raised on Parliament Hill. With growing concerns over Donald Trump’s threats to Canada, five former prime ministers have urged Canadians to rally behind the flag like never before. Former governor general Michaëlle Jean reflects on the significance of Flag Day and why national pride matters now more than ever.

Tracy Charette Fehr talks with host Marcy Markusa about how she came up with the idea for the art piece called Métis Mothers. She also talks about how she used art as a way to reconnect with and honour her Métis heritage.

Manitoba health-care workers say they're struggling.

Earlier this week, we heard from Dr. Shawn Young, the chief operating officer of Health Sciences Centre.

He says his emergency room isn't the only care facility struggling to keep up with demand. Personal care homes are struggling, too.

And it has a ripple effect throughout the entire health-care system. 

Sue Vovchuk joins the podcast today. She is the executive director of the Long Term and Continuing Care Association of Manitoba. It's a non-profit that advocates for personal care homes across the province and the thousands of people who rely on them.

Muslim students at the University of Manitoba are spending this week celebrating "the beauty" of Islam. Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Ayesha Sultan, the president of the U of M's Muslim Student Association, and Bareera Kamran, the association's manager of student life. 

Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Jason Linklater, the president of the Manitoba Association of Health Care Professionals, about the importance of having social workers in ERs and the work they do to decrease wait times.

A Manitoba teacher is helping her students embrace the cold in a safe way. 

Marcy Markusa talks with Marsha Leary, a Grade 3 and 4 teacher at General Vanier School in Winnipeg, 

We hear about the polar bear club and why she started it. 

Hundreds of people work at the steel mill in Selkirk, Man. 

Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Selkirk Mayor Larry Johannson about the effect of the 25 per cent tariff the U.S. has slapped on what they make.

Former minister and MLA Jim Rondeau also joins the podcast to talk about how Canada should respond to the 25 per cent tariffs. 

Also on the podcast today: The usually packed emergency room at Health Sciences Centre cleared out swiftly when a Code Orange was called during a blizzard in January. A front-line nurse says it was "magical," but where did all the patients go? And what can be learned from the co-ordination that day? Marcy is joined by Dr. Shawn Young, the chief operating officer at HSC.

We get a rare look inside the front lines of our health-care crisis when CBC's Marcy Markusa speaks with a longtime nurse who works in the Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre emergency department. Hear why she describes her day-to-day reality as "chaos."

Manitoba Progressive Conservative Party leadership candidate Wally Daudrich joked to a group of party members this week he could reduce homelessness in Winnipeg by letting polar bears loose downtown.

CBC's Bartley Kives spoke to Daudrich about the polar bear remark.

Also on the podcast: An outlet for young people to speak about their mental health and help others is here. Huddle South Central has their own podcast for just that. We'll speak to a producer and one of the young people who took part in it.

Up first on the podcast, a Steinbach manufacturer that sends most of its product south of the border tries to navigate these uncertain times.

Neil Fast, president and CEO of Loewen Windows and Doors, speaks with the CBC's Zubina Ahmed about tariffs.

Donald Trump has spent weeks threatening to slap tariffs on Canada, but this isn't the first time an American president has made this threat. We talk tariff déjà vu -- and how the past can help us navigate this current political moment.

CBC's Marcy Markusa speaks to Len Kuffert, a history professor at the University of Manitoba.

As the new U.S. administration makes sweeping cuts to government funding, a research team at the University of Manitoba is at risk of losing its funding for life-saving HIV/AIDS research.

Julie Lajoie holds the Francis A. Plummer professorship in global infectious diseases at the University of Manitoba.

A member of Winnipeg's Palestinian community reacts to U.S. President Donald Trump saying he wants to permanently move Palestinians out of Gaza.

Ramsey Zeid, president of the Canadian Palestinian Association of Manitoba, speaks with host Marcy Markusa.

Has your attitude changed toward your neighbours down south? We sent CBC reporter Jim Agapito to speak to Winnipeggers. 

Also on the podcast today: For children with a life-threatening illness, there can be a lot of time spent receiving medical care and not a lot of time to be a kid, but the Dream Factory wants to change that. Andrew Kussy, executive director of the Dream Factory, explains how.

With U.S. tariffs on pause for 30 days, Premier Wab Kinew says American alcohol will stay on Manitoba shelves — for now. Meanwhile, Brock Coutts, co-owner of Winnipeg's Patent 5 Distillery, says supporting local businesses should be about more than just a trade dispute.

Host Marcy Markusa also talks with Federal Public Safety Minister David McGuinty, who is in the province to discuss border security measures.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau directly addressed Americans as U.S. President Donald Trump forged ahead with tariffs on a wide array of Canadian goods. 

For a closer look at how Canadian politicians are reacting, we talk to Duane Bratt, a professor of political science at Mount Royal University.

Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Fen Hampson, a professor of International Affairs at Carleton University and co-chair of the high-level expert group on Canada-U.S. relations. We'll get his reaction to the tariff battle between Canada and the United States.

For more local reaction to the tariffs, the CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Chuck Davidson, joins the podcast. 

What happens when the road out is blocked by a wall of flames? Lac du Bonnet resident Gay Kirby recounts a harrowing escape from a fast-moving wildfire — how her home was miraculously spared, and how a last-minute helicopter rescue saved her, her husband and their neighbours.

Also in this episode: Host Marcy Markusa speaks with fire Chief Greg Zimmerman. He shares what it's like battling wildfires on the front lines in Manitoba — working in extreme heat and adapting tactics — and why he keeps going after 47 years on the job.

If Canada and the U.S. get into a trade war, would you be willing to pay more for your morning cup of java? One Winnipeg coffee importer says it could happen.

CBC's Jim Agapito speaks with Black Pearl owner Trevis Boyd.

U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threat is prompting some Manitobans to change how and where they shop. A Brandon woman says buying Canadian and buying local are her way of promoting and supporting Canadian culture and the economy.

CBC Manitoba reporter Rosanna Hempel met with Maria Askham at her home in Brandon.

Manitoba has long been a destination for newcomers, but how welcoming is the province really? As part of a national CBC series, we explore the challenges newcomers face and the growing anti-immigrant sentiment. Host Marcy Markusa speaks with University of Manitoba sociologist Lori Wilkinson, a Canada Research Chair in Migration Futures, to understand the underlying issues and what needs to change.

Also on the podcast today: Big changes are coming to Winnipeg Transit this June.

The city is set for a major shift in its transit system this summer, with significant changes coming to routes, schedules and service frequency. What can riders expect? And how will the overhaul impact routes, stops and overall service? CBC's Bartley Kives joins Marcy Markusa to break down the overhaul and explain how these changes might impact your daily commute.

A handful of Sunshine House resource staff and paramedics faced a chaotic situation in downtown Winnipeg on Sunday afternoon, when 10 people experienced overdoses within a 45-minute span due to toxic drugs. Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Levi Foy, Sunshine House's executive director.

With the threat of a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods looming, CBC's Jim Agapito hits the streets of Winnipeg to find out how Manitobans feel about the idea of buying Canadian as a way to combat economic pressure from the U.S. Will this movement help push back against economic challenges from the south?

Cellphones have revolutionized how we connect with others, including how we date. With just a swipe, a match could lead to something meaningful, but some young people are choosing to disconnect from dating apps altogether. CBC's Gavin Axelrod talks to Gen Z folks about turning away from their phones to search for long-term love and the reasons for the shift.

For over 50 years, Russell Woodhouse has been remembered as a convicted killer, but new efforts are being made to clear his name decades after his death. CBC's Caitlyn Gowriluk takes us through the journey of Woodhouse's family and the lawyers dedicated to seeing him exonerated. She joins Marcy Markusa with details of the fight for justice, and how this case could set a historic precedent for wrongfully convicted people.

The Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association has voted to ban the cosmetic practice of tail docking in dogs, a decision hailed by animal rights advocates. While this move aligns with veterinary practices across Canada and around the world, the question remains: why was this procedure ever performed? Dr. Jonas Watson, a veterinarian from Winnipeg, tells host Marcy Markusa about the impact of the ban and what it means for animal welfare in the province.

Some Manitoba licence plates say "Friendly Manitoba," but how true is that today? Is it still an inviting place, or do you find it harder to strike up a conversation with a stranger? We sent CBC's Jim Agapito to explore that topic and hear what people had to say.

Also on the show, guest host Cory Funk chats with Weakerthans frontman John Samson Fellows. He'll share the unique way he's reimagining the Winnipeg city budget.

He's created a multicoloured striped scarf, with each stripe representing a different part of the budget.

Melissa Graham speaks with guest host Faith Fundal about her experience as a power chair user getting around the city on messy sidewalks. She hopes a campaign can get more pics to help support the fight for more accessible sidewalks in Winnipeg.

Finding meaning in your work can be the difference between happiness and burnout. We hear from author Jennifer Moss about what she discovered writing her latest book, Why Are We Here?

Manitoba ranks second-last among Canada's provinces when it comes to dollars devoted to major mining, energy and forestry projects, according to the latest federal list of natural resource projects under construction or planned for the next 10 years.

CBC's Bartley Kives joins the podcast to talk about it.

They call us Friendly Manitoba, but how friendly is our province when it comes to welcoming newcomers? As part of a CBC national series featuring stories from new Canadians, we wanted to check in with some immigrants here. We'll meet someone who always dreamed of coming to Winnipeg, but now that she's here is it all that she dreamed it would be? Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Rebecca Ruvunda

Manitoba has long been known for its friendly nature, but is that reputation still true for newcomers? Tasneem Vali, a Muslim Winnipegger who immigrated over 20 years ago, shares her insights with Marcy Markusa about how the treatment of newcomers in Winnipeg has shifted. Vali discusses the growing challenges immigrants face in Manitoba today and the evolving pressures around diversity and inclusion.

It is a rare occurrence in the nighttime sky — six planets visible at once. The astronomical parade began Jan. 21 and will continue over the next four weeks. CBC's Marcy Markusa speaks about it with Danielle Pahud, director of the Lockhart Planetarium at the University of Manitoba.

The nights may still be long and dark but one Winnipeg neighbourhood just got a bit brighter. The 3rd annual Lights on the Exchange festival began Jan. 21 and is on through March 21. The event features 25 light-based works of art that people can check out as they walk the streets of the Exchange District. CBC's Marcy Markusa gets all the details from David Pensato, executive director of the Exchange District BIZ.

Shortly after his inauguration yesterday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order proclaiming the U.S. government will only recognize two sexes — male and female — and that people cannot change their designated sex.

Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Charlie Eau, the executive director for Trans Manitoba.

"The golden age of America begins right now," the new U.S. president has declared.

Trump's blitz of executive orders will affect sectors like immigration and energy, but as of now, there are no new tariffs aimed at Canada, even though he said that may change on Feb. 1.

For more on the executive orders, Marcy Markusa is joined by Thomas Schaller, a political scientist at the University of Maryland.

Canada is seeing fewer immigrants make it their home due to federal policies designed to address the housing crisis. But could these changes negatively affect provinces like Manitoba that rely on newcomers? CBC’s Ian Froese investigates the impact of this policy shift on Manitoba and what it means for the province's future.

The inauguration of President Donald Trump has many Manitobans worried about his tariff threat. If he makes good on his threat of a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian imports to the U.S., the local hog industry could face significant challenges. Rick Prejet, a longtime hog producer and chair of the Manitoba Pork Council, explains how this tariff could affect Manitoba's hog production, even if it only impacts a small part of his own farm.

Also on the podcast today: Terry Shaw is the regional vice-president for Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters.

He's worried Trump's threat is already affecting Manitoba's economy.

And he says the impact from the proposed tariffs could go beyond industries like manufacturing.

He spoke to the CBC's Alanna Cole.

Host Marcy Markusa also speaks with Viet Vu for his take on all of this.

He is the manager of economic research at the Dais at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Postal workers across Canada are bracing for a potential strike as union negotiations hit a standstill. In this episode, CBC’s Chloe Friesen hits the streets to hear what a postal strike could mean for Manitobans.

We also hear from two Canada Post letter carriers with different takes on the looming job action. Mike Branconnier, with nearly two decades on the job, shares why he's disheartened by the strike notice and feels workers weren’t properly consulted. Meanwhile, Matthew Aitken supports the union's move, calling for fair wages and stronger labour rights despite the challenges a strike brings.

As TikTok's future in the U.S. hangs in the balance, the clock is ticking toward a potential shutdown on January 19th. Host Marcy Markusa dives into the latest developments with tech consultant Avery Swartz, exploring the impact of a possible ban on millions of users and content creators, both in the U.S. and Canada. What would the end of TikTok in the States mean for the future of social media?

Also on the podcast: The Sutherland Hotel on Main Street was a fixture in Winnipeg for over a century before it was lost to flames. For Brad Bilenky, the fire wasn't just the loss of a building—it marked the end of a significant chapter in his life. Brad reflects on growing up in the hotel, which his parents owned for 11 years, and shares his personal connection to the place with host Marcy Markusa. Through his eyes, we explore the history of the Sutherland Hotel and its impact on the Winnipeg community.

Marcy Markusa and Abiola Adeyemi host today

Israel and Hamas are at the brink of an historic deal to pause the fighting in Gaza, sparking hope for an end to the war. As the world looks ahead, many are curious about the future for both Israeli and Palestinian communities. Emily Kalo, an Israeli-born student at the University of Manitoba, shares her personal thoughts on the deal and its potential impact on the region.

A day after the agreement was announced, hundreds of Palestinians in the central Gaza Strip celebrated. We hear Mona Zangana, a Palestinian student at the University of Manitoba, about the relief, the emotions, and the impact this ceasefire is having on her community.

Also on the Podcast today: Mayor Scott Gillingham joins host Marcy Markusa for our monthly interview to discuss Winnipeg's role in the new strategy to end chronic homelessness. We also dive into the controversy surrounding Lemay Forest, where concerns about unmarked graves have led to calls for the city to expropriate land to stop development.

Manitoba's NDP government has unveiled a new strategy aimed at ending chronic homelessness by 2031, focusing on moving individuals from encampments into safe housing. Host Marcy Markusa speaks with Tessa Blaikie-Whitecloud, CEO of Siloam Mission and the Premier's Senior Advisor on Homelessness, to discuss the "Your Way Home" initiative. This ambitious plan includes purchasing and renovating apartment buildings to create 300 new social housing units with support services. Tune in as we explore the future of homelessness solutions in Manitoba.

Winnipeg's emergency room wait times far exceed the national average of 5.2 hours, with the Health Sciences Centre hitting a staggering 13.16 hours as of November. Why are wait times so high, and what can you do to avoid the long waits? Dr. Amanda Condon with Shared Health shares insights on alternative care options in the city, from minor injury clinics to walk-ins, that can help you get the care you need faster.

Hospital emergency rooms are becoming an unexpected refuge for some experiencing homelessness, especially during extreme weather. We'll delve into a recent study led by Dr. Stephen Hwang, a physician and research scientist at the MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions in Toronto. Dr. Hwang discusses the findings of the study, the challenges faced by those seeking temporary shelter in ERs, and the broader implications for addressing homelessness and healthcare access.

This week, temperatures in Manitoba are dropping to a bone-chilling -40°C. Has Mother Nature lost track of the calendar? Has Mother Nature forgotten it’s January? Did Mother Nature miss the memo? To break it down, we’re joined by Alex Crawford, assistant professor in the University of Manitoba's Department of Environment and Geography, who sheds light on this icy phenomenon and the science behind this frosty phenomenon.

Marcy Markusa is host