071a Pain for Profit: Canada's Opioid Crisis

Send us a text, tell us your canadian creepy!This week on Canadian Creepies, we examine one of the deadliest public health disasters in Canadian history: the opioid crisis.For years, the public narrative focused on addiction, personal responsibility, and the visible consequences on our streets. But behind that story lies another one—of pharmaceutical marketing campaigns, regulatory failures, corporate profits, and a healthcare system that left thousands of Canadians vulnerable.From the rise of OxyContin and the marketing tactics used to convince doctors that opioids were safe, to the fentanyl-driven overdose crisis that continues to claim lives across the country, we trace the decisions that helped shape a national tragedy.With more than 55,000 Canadians lost to opioid toxicity since 2016, this is not simply a story about substances. It is a story about policy, profit, stigma, survival, and the families left behind.This episode was researched by Christine.Also this week, our Creep of the Week examines a disturbing Ontario case involving an aunt who pleaded guilty after throwing acid on her niece, causing life-altering injuries.Content warning: addiction, overdose, death, violence, and discussions of substance use.✨ This episode also highlights the work of Niagara Reproductive Justice (NRJ)— Learn more or support their work by visiting their social media or emailing [email protected]. Your next creepy obsession starts here. 🖤 Ghoul Gang, we've got double the creep for you today!📸 First up: Darkroom Photography, based in the Niagara Region. Mel captures everything from spooky to sweet with creative, lifestyle shoots—and yes, her Halloween sessions are legendary. Transparent pricing, seasonal specials, and all the eerie vibes you could want.👉 Book at darkroomphotography.ca or email [email protected]🦴 And don’t forget our boo-tiful friends at Back From the Dead Goods—resurrecting your wardrobe with creepy streetwear on Etsy & Poshmark.👻 Use code CANADIANCREEPIES for 10% off!Support spooky small biz and creep it cute, creeps.Edited by Kyle McDonnell