On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian examines one of the biggest questions facing Canada’s largest city: is Toronto still the thriving, opportunity-driven metropolis it once was—or is it heading in the wrong direction?Brian is joined by Mary Throop, wealth management executive, civic policy advocate, and a vocal critic of Toronto’s current trajectory, for a candid conversation about safety, infrastructure, housing, governance, and the future of the city.In Part 1, Brian and Mary discuss growing concerns around quality of life in Toronto, including public safety, disorder, homelessness, open drug use, transit concerns, car theft, and whether city leadership is adequately focused on core services that residents rely on every day.The conversation then turns to transit, infrastructure, and civic frustration. Mary raises questions about TTC safety, declining ridership, infrastructure maintenance, bike lane planning, government spending priorities, and whether practical problem-solving has been replaced by symbolic politics.In the discussion on housing and economic competitiveness, Brian and Mary explore the challenges facing young professionals, families, businesses, and investors. They examine the impact of lengthy approval processes, zoning restrictions, taxes, regulatory barriers, affordability pressures, and Toronto’s ability to compete with other growing global cities.The conversation expands beyond Toronto to a larger question facing Canada: can our cities continue to be engines of opportunity, innovation, and prosperity, or are rising costs, slow decision-making, and declining confidence putting that future at risk?Mary argues that great cities rarely decline overnight—they decline gradually when leaders stop addressing difficult problems.The episode concludes with a reminder that the future of cities is shaped not only by elected officials, but by engaged citizens who stay informed, participate, and vote.A timely and provocative discussion about Toronto’s challenges, opportunities, and the choices that will shape its future.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian celebrates an unforgettable summer of live music with a look at the Toronto Concert Orchestra’s exciting concert series at Toronto’s historic Palais Royale.In the first half of the program, Brian is joined by Sharon Lee, Artistic Director of the Toronto Concert Orchestra, to discuss the orchestra’s five-concert summer series. From an Elton John spectacular and the timeless music of Édith Piaf to opera, a tribute to everyday heroes, and a James Bond-themed finale, Lee shares how the orchestra is bringing together classical music, popular favourites, and cinematic scores in an intimate and accessible concert experience.She also reflects on her journey as a violinist and conductor, the musicians who make up the orchestra, and why the historic Palais Royale provides the perfect setting for an evening of exceptional live performance.In the second half of the show, Brian welcomes Ron Camilleri, better known to audiences as Elton Rohn, whose acclaimed Elton John tribute performance opens the summer series. Backed by his seven-piece band and a live orchestra, Ron discusses recreating the iconic sound of Elton John with beloved hits including Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Philadelphia Freedom, Tiny Dancer, Rocket Man, and Crocodile Rock.He also shares what goes into transforming himself into Elton John, why fans are encouraged to embrace the colourful spirit of the legendary performer, and how the evening evolves from a concert into a lively celebration.Whether you're a fan of orchestral music, opera, film scores, or the timeless songs of Elton John, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Toronto's standout summer concert experiences.A vibrant conversation about music, performance, and the joy of bringing audiences together through live entertainment.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian explores one of the greatest health challenges facing Canadians today: Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and what science is teaching us about protecting brain health throughout our lives.Brian is joined by clinical psychiatrist and internationally recognized author Thomas Verny to discuss his thought-provoking series on Alzheimer's disease and the growing body of research suggesting that many dementia risk factors are within our control.Drawing on decades of research, Dr. Verny explains how factors such as hearing loss, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, air pollution, social isolation, and brain injuries can all influence the risk of developing dementia. He also discusses the benefits of regular exercise, restorative sleep, stress management, a Mediterranean-style diet, lifelong learning, and maintaining strong social connections in supporting long-term brain health.The conversation also explores emerging research into the role vaccinations may play in reducing inflammation and potentially lowering dementia risk, while emphasizing a hopeful message: it is never too early—or too late—to adopt habits that support a healthier brain.In the second half of the program, Brian and Dr. Verny shift their focus from prevention to care, reflecting on the importance of seeing the person behind the diagnosis. They discuss how familiar music, treasured photographs, meaningful relationships, and compassionate caregiving can create moments of recognition, comfort, and joy, even in the later stages of Alzheimer's disease.Together, they emphasize that while memory may decline, every individual deserves dignity, respect, and meaningful human connection.A compassionate and informative conversation about Alzheimer's prevention, healthy aging, caregiving, and the enduring humanity of those living with dementia.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian examines one of Canada’s most important economic and political debates: the future of energy, pipelines, and national prosperity.Canada’s energy future is once again at the centre of the national conversation. Can new pipeline projects finally move forward after decades of debate? Will the vision of nation-building infrastructure succeed where previous efforts have struggled? And how can Canada balance energy security, economic growth, environmental responsibility, and Indigenous partnerships in a changing world?Brian is joined by two of Canada’s leading energy voices to explore the realities behind the headlines.In Part 1, Brian speaks with Trevor Rose, host of a leading business and energy podcast, about the current pipeline landscape and what industry leaders are saying about Canada’s energy potential. They discuss proposed east-west pipeline concepts, the South Bow proposal, export opportunities, and the challenges surrounding regulatory approvals, financing, and land access.Trevor shares insights into why Calgary’s business community is cautiously optimistic and whether Canada is finally positioned to unlock the economic potential of its energy resources.In Part 2, Brian welcomes Bill Whitelaw, Executive Director of RexTAG Energy Data and a respected energy historian and analyst, for a look at the history behind Canada’s pipeline debates.Together, they explore the lessons of the Pipeline Debate of the 1950s, the National Energy Program, Trans Mountain Corporation, carbon capture, Indigenous partnerships, and the economic realities shaping today’s energy decisions.The conversation also examines how pipelines could be financed, the future of oil sands development, the impact of potentially lower global oil prices, and how energy policy continues to influence Alberta’s politics and questions of national unity.At the heart of the discussion is a larger question: can Canada create an energy strategy that brings together economic growth, environmental responsibility, energy security, and cooperation across the country?A timely and insightful look at one of the defining issues shaping Canada’s economic future.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian tells the remarkable story of a Canadian pioneer whose groundbreaking work changed science—but whose achievements went largely unrecognized for decades.Brian is joined by filmmaker Alison Reid, director of the acclaimed documentary The Woman Who Loved Giraffes, to discuss the extraordinary life and legacy of Canadian scientist Anne Innis Dagg.At just 23 years old in 1956, Dagg travelled alone to South Africa, becoming one of the first researchers in the world to study giraffes in the wild. Her pioneering observations transformed scientific understanding of these remarkable animals and helped establish the foundation for modern giraffe research.The conversation explores how, despite her groundbreaking contributions, Dagg faced systemic barriers and gender discrimination that prevented her from receiving the academic recognition she deserved. Alison shares how Anne’s story was rediscovered decades later, eventually leading to international recognition, an honorary doctorate, and appointment to the Order of Canada.Brian and Alison also discuss her award-winning documentary The Art of Adventure, featuring Canadian artist Robert Bateman, and the importance of preserving and sharing authentic Canadian stories. Alison reveals plans to adapt both documentaries into scripted dramatic television series.In his closing commentary, Brian reflects on relationships, healing, and personal growth, examining the idea that while individuals are responsible for their own healing, human connection plays an essential role in shaping who we become. Drawing on the insights of Freud, Jung, Bowlby, Ainsworth, Rogers, and Winnicott, Brian explores how we discover ourselves through reflection—but often become our fullest selves through relationships.A powerful episode about curiosity, resilience, justice, love, and the Canadian stories that deserve to be remembered.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by former Canadian diplomat and Fellow at the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, Colin Robertson, for a timely conversation about the United States at 250 and what America’s evolution means for Canada.As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, the discussion explores a series of pressing questions: Has America fundamentally changed? Is the rise of Donald Trump the cause of today’s uncertainty or a symptom of deeper economic, political, and cultural forces? And how should Canada respond to an increasingly unpredictable world?The conversation begins with a look beyond Washington, examining why many Canadians misunderstand the United States and how America’s founders intentionally designed a system of checks and balances. Robertson explains why the country’s fifty states remain powerful laboratories of democracy and why governors, business leaders, and civic institutions often matter as much as national politics.The discussion then turns to Donald Trump and the future of American democracy. Brian and Robertson examine the growth of presidential power, the weakening of Congress, the enduring tradition of American civic engagement, and whether the country’s democratic institutions remain resilient in the face of unprecedented political pressures.Finally, the focus shifts to Canada and the choices ahead. Robertson argues that Canada cannot afford either complacency or panic. Instead, the country must preserve its vital partnership with the United States while also diversifying trade, investing in infrastructure, strengthening defence capabilities, encouraging innovation, and building the resilience needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.A thoughtful and balanced conversation about one of the most consequential relationships in international affairs—and how Canada should navigate the next chapter with its closest neighbour.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian celebrates Canadian music, Canadian values, and the country we have the opportunity to become.In the first half of the program, Brian is joined by rising Canadian country artist Barbara Ann to discuss her remarkable journey from overcoming stage fright to becoming one of the country's emerging voices in country music. The conversation explores her latest single, A Little Country, the success of Drunk Country Song, which reached No. 3 on the Canadian Indie Country charts, and her experiences writing deeply personal songs that connect with audiences.Barbara also shares insights into her musical influences, her participation in Nashville Takeover, and her aspirations to bring her authentic brand of Canadian country music to fans across Canada and around the world.In his closing commentary, “Canada at Its Best: The Country We Must Choose to Become,” Brian reflects on the lessons learned from hundreds of conversations with economists, entrepreneurs, scientists, military experts, artists, community leaders, and everyday Canadians.Drawing on recent travels across Saskatchewan, Alberta, Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia, he explores Canada's immense opportunities in innovation, manufacturing, productivity, education, defence, and entrepreneurship. Inspired by the extraordinary story of Gander following the events of September 11, Brian argues that Canada's greatest strength has never been its resources or its geography—it has always been its people.As Canada celebrates another birthday, Brian offers an optimistic and uplifting vision for the future, encouraging Canadians to choose a country that is kind, hospitable, innovative, discerning, and confident enough to build an even better nation together.A heartfelt conversation about music, identity, and the enduring promise of Canada.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Professor Jacqueline Murray for a thought-provoking conversation about marriage, masculinity, history, and some of the most pressing social challenges facing modern society.Drawing on her expertise as one of Canada's foremost medieval historians, Professor Murray examines the historical misconceptions contained in the manifesto of a Montreal incel murderer and explains why its interpretation of marriage, gender relations, and history is fundamentally flawed.Together, they explore the true origins of Christian marriage and monogamy, how social and economic changes—including women's growing economic independence—have transformed relationships, and why these shifts continue to shape family life and society today.The discussion also addresses the rise of misogynistic online communities, the resurgence of anti-feminist and patriarchal ideologies, and the growing concerns surrounding loneliness, identity, and the challenges facing young men.Brian and Professor Murray consider the importance of fathers, mentors, and positive examples of masculinity, as well as the role men can play in helping to raise a healthier and more resilient generation of boys and young men.More than a conversation about history, this episode examines the ideas and institutions that underpin relationships, family, and community—and why understanding their origins may be essential to addressing today's cultural and social divides.A thoughtful and timely discussion about marriage, masculinity, responsibility, and the values that hold society together.

On this Canada Day special edition of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian explores the themes of kindness, community, and the values that define Canada at its best.In Part 1, Brian is joined by Toronto-based producer Peter Gentile to discuss the documentary You Are Here: A Come From Away Story, which tells the remarkable true story behind the hit musical Come From Away.Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, nearly 6,700 airline passengers aboard 38 diverted flights found themselves stranded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador. In an extraordinary act of generosity, local residents opened their homes, schools, churches, and hearts to complete strangers, creating one of the most inspiring stories of compassion and community in modern Canadian history.In Part 2, Brian delivers a special Canada Day commentary reflecting on what Canada has been—and what it must become. Amid housing challenges, global instability, technological change, growing loneliness, and political polarization, he argues that Canada's greatest aspiration should not simply be to become bigger or wealthier, but to become better: more generous, more united, more courageous, and more committed to creating communities where people feel they belong.The story of Gander offers a powerful reminder that Canada is at its best when people show up for one another—and that spirit of kindness and connection may hold the key to the country's future.A heartfelt Canada Day conversation about compassion, belonging, and the kind of nation Canadians still have the opportunity to build together.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian explores how rapidly shifting global dynamics are reshaping geopolitics, technology, and national strategy in the twenty-first century.He is joined by Belgian transformation strategist Joe Coudron, author of End the System and Other Bad Ideas for the Future, for a wide-ranging discussion on Europe’s evolving role in a new era of global uncertainty.Coudron argues that the world is entering a fundamentally different geopolitical phase—one in which long-standing assumptions about trade, security, and cooperation are being replaced by a focus on resilience and self-reliance. As the United States and China increasingly prioritize their own strategic interests, Europe is accelerating efforts to build greater independence in energy, technology, manufacturing, and defence.Together, they explore Europe’s push toward energy independence, technological sovereignty, and strengthened defence capabilities, as well as the rapid pace at which these changes are unfolding.The conversation then turns to Canada’s position in this emerging global order. Brian and Coudron examine whether Canada can continue to rely heavily on traditional trade relationships, or whether it must diversify its economic and geopolitical partnerships. They also discuss the strategic importance of securing domestic capabilities in areas such as energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, cloud infrastructure, and data governance.A key focus of the discussion is the growing role of artificial intelligence in global power dynamics, including the possibility that access to advanced AI systems may increasingly be shaped by geography and national policy—raising new questions about technological sovereignty and security.In closing, Brian reflects on the broader shift underway in international relations: from globalization driven by interdependence to a new era defined by resilience and strategic autonomy. For Canada, he suggests, the central question is no longer only about participation in the global economy, but about which capabilities must be maintained at home to ensure long-term stability and strength.A timely and forward-looking conversation about power, technology, and Canada’s place in an increasingly uncertain world.