Welcome to The Morning News Podcast for Wednesday, January 6th.

We begin with a conversation with Mercedes Stephenson, Global News Ottawa Bureau Chief and Host of The West Block. We speak with Mercedes about the state of the Canadian economy as we move deeper into the Pandemic, and the latest on the ongoing politician “holiday travel” controversy.

Are you suffering from “Covid Fatigue?”. We speak with Psychologist Jody Carrington for tips on how to recognize the signs of fatigue – and steps to deal with the stress of the ongoing pandemic.

On the topic of mental health – we look at the results of a new survey which finds Canadians wanting increased access to Psychologists and mental health resources – and at a lower cost.

And finally – if getting “fit” is your New Year’s Resolution – there’s an APP for that!  We speak with a Nutritionist about just how effective the “digital diets” are -- and how to choose the program that would best fit your needs.

Welcome to The Morning News Podcast for Tuesday, January 5th.

We begin with a look at the impact the new Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine will have in the fight against COVID-19. We speak with a Doctor from England’s Southampton University who says this version of the vaccine could be a game-changer.

Has the pandemic – revealed ‘cracks’ in our public school system here in Canada? We get the thoughts of a Professor from the University of Ottawa who believes there are some real lessons to be learned from the crisis.

Next we hear about a unique new project from the “Veterans Association” Food Bank which aims to give work to local veterans.

And finally -- Is ‘eating healthy’ one of your New Year’s resolutions? We speak with a Calgary-based Holistic Nutritionist for some tips and suggestions to make the change ‘easier to swallow’.

Welcome to The Morning News Podcast for Monday, January 4th.

We begin with a look at the news that many politicians – both Provincially and Federally – travelled outside the country during the Christmas break. We get the latest from David Akin – Global News Chief Political Correspondent.

Next we get an update South of the border – both on the rising death count from COVID-19 – and the political firestorm caused by a leak phone call between President Donald Trump and the Georgia’s Secretary of State. We catch up with Reggie Cecchini – Washington Reporter for Global News.

Could contact tracing create a more effective vaccine rollout in our nation? We get the thoughts of an Infectious Disease Specialist from Queen’s University.

And finally….Foodies Unite! We take a look ahead to what tasty culinary trends we can expect to see in 2021. We speak with “Globe & Mail” Food Critic, Dan Clapson.

Guest: Calgary author Carolyn Neary 

Welcome to The Morning News Podcast for Thursday, December 31st.

We begin with a look at the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in our nation… and ask the question of whether the vaccine should be made available for private purchase – by either individuals or organizations like professional sports teams.  We get the thoughts of a Bioethicist, from the University of Toronto.

Next, it’s been a very difficult year for the travel industry. We take a look back at the challenges faced in 2020 – and a look ahead to what 2021 holds for the industry – with “The Travel Lady”, Lesley Keyter.

Then we continue our look at New Year’s Resolutions. If getting organized is on your to-do ‘list’ for 2021 – look no further. We get some tips on how to get started, with a Professional Organizer.

And finally – whatever your resolution may be – you may need some motivation to reach your goal. We catch up with author, speaker and movie producer Doug Vermeeren – with some suggestions on how to “ignite the spark” of motivation.