PODCAST · news
Closer Look
by Village Media Inc.
In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find. This podcast from Village Media — ‘Closer Look’ — is all about the stories we tell. Every Sunday morning at 8, hosts Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith go beyond the headlines with insightful, in-depth conversations featuring our reporters and editors, leading experts, key stakeholders and big newsmakers.
Episodes
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Away from the cameras, 'Rick the Temp' hid a dark secret
For a generation of Canadians, Rick Campanelli has been one of the most recognizable faces on television — the energetic, always-grinning “Rick the Temp” who turned a MuchMusic contest into a remarkable career in broadcasting. But behind that smile was a struggle few people knew about. In his new...
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NHL's rookie of the year takes a shot at joining our podcast
Matthew Schaefer was the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL draft — and he definitely lived up to the hype. In his first season, the talented defenceman put up Bobby Orr-esque numbers, tallying 23 goals and 36 assists on his way to being crowned the league’s rookie of the year. Off the ice,...
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Far-fetched or not, Carney is right to prepare for U.S. military action
Prime Minister Mark Carney revealed this week that he has studied the possibility of U.S.-led military action in Canada. In a lengthy New York Times interview published Wednesday, Carney said it would be irresponsible not to prepare for what he called an “extreme tail risk.” “That’s just risk...
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Navdeep Bains has some things to say about Doug Ford
In November, the Ontario Liberals will elect a new leader — the party’s third in six years. Five candidates are on the ballot to replace Bonnie Crombie: Navdeep Bains, Stephanie Bowman, Lee Fairclough, Eric Lombardi and Dylan Marando. At this point, Bains is widely considered the frontrunner. The...
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Should Trump's ambassador to Canada get the boot?
At last count, nearly 200,000 people have signed an online petition demanding the expulsion of Donald Trump's ambassador to Canada. The petition — which will be presented in the House of Commons this fall — calls on the federal government to declare Pete Hoekstra persona non grata and remove him...
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Our last conversation with Lloyd Robertson
For countless Canadians, Lloyd Robertson was more than a trusted voice. He was a fixture of their nightly routine. The chief anchor of CTV News for nearly three decades, Robertson helped people across the country understand the moments that shaped our nation and our world. "That's the kind of day...
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Why this could be a 'turnaround decade' in the fight against Alzheimer's
Researchers have identified a new blood test that could reveal signs of Alzheimer’s disease decades earlier than ever before. The potential breakthrough is just the latest piece of positive news when it comes to identifying and treating dementia patients — including the recent approval of a...
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Meet the Zamboni-like robot cleaning Ontario beaches
When you’re at the beach this summer, you might notice something pretty cool: a Zamboni-like robot that meticulously cleans the sand. It’s called a BeBot, and it was unveiled for the first time in Canada last year by the not-for-profit group Pollution Probe. The vacuum-like device — which can…
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The Wealthy Barber is closing up shop
Released nearly four decades years ago, The Wealthy Barber helped countless Canadians understand money management and sound investing strategies. Last year, author David Chilton released a fresh rewrite of his iconic book for a new generation — and also stopped by our Closer Look podcast for a...
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Not even your gift cards are safe from fraudsters
If recent headlines are any indication, gift card scams have become a lucrative enterprise for organized criminals. On this week’s episode of Village Media's Closer Look podcast, we revisit an eye-opening conversation we had with Ritesh Kotak, a lawyer and cybercrime expert. He explains how these...
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CTE is a devastating brain disease, but there is hope
If you're a sports fan, you've no doubt heard of the acronym CTE. It has made plenty of headlines in recent years. CTE — chronic traumatic encephalopathy — is a devastating, degenerative brain disease triggered by repetitive head injuries. It often impacts athletes, but also soldiers and victims…
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Spot the difference? How fake merch inflicts very real harms
This week, Toronto police displayed the fruits of a massive seizure of counterfeit soccer merchandise worth millions of dollars. The haul included 16,000 fake name-brand jerseys and flags — including FIFA, Nike, Adidas and Puma — and even two counterfeit FIFA World Cup trophies. At first glance,...
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Here’s what you need to know about Ontario’s new auto insurance rules
Here's a piece of advice: Take a good look at your auto insurance policy. Starting July 1, Ontario is introducing some significant reforms to auto insurance rules. Simply put, some coverage that is now mandatory will soon become optional — including certain accident benefits like income…
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Why we’re spending billions to attract more people into skilled trades
Last month, Mark Carney’s Liberal government announced a $6-billion plan to help recruit, train and hire up to 100,000 new skilled tradespeople over the next five years. The plan acknowledges a longstanding concern: that Canada has an urgent need for more carpenters, plumbers, millwrights and…
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Voting really matters, but our democracy demands so much more
In communities across Ontario, nominations are now open for October’s municipal elections. It is local democracy in action: candidates put their names in the hat, lay out their promises — and you vote. But is that enough? Does democracy demand more of us? On this week’s episode of Village Media's...
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Don Cherry's son talks about his dad, ‘you people’ and Ron MacLean
Even at 92 years old, Don Cherry is never far from the headlines. Back in February, the longtime co-host of “Coach’s Corner” was appointed to the Order of Ontario. A month later, a Conservative MP started a push to honour Cherry with the Order of Canada — a movement that continues to gain steam....
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Why banning kids from social media is a terrible idea
Back in December, Australia became the first country in the world to ban social media for kids under 16. Simply put, popular platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat were ordered to block all Australian children from their sites or face hefty fines. Should Canada follow suit? The momentum is...
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Our prime farmland in Ontario is rapidly disappearing
The Ford government says it wants to limit the foreign ownership of prime Ontario farmland, all part of proposed legislation aimed at boosting food sovereignty across the province. But some experts say the government’s focus on foreign ownership is missing the real crisis: Ontario’s rapidly...
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Canada’s ‘Princess Warrior’ stops by our podcast (minus the sword)
Mary Walsh is so much more than one iconic character, but for countless Canadians she will always be Marg Delahunty, Princess Warrior. Her sword-wielding alter ego — who ambushed politicians, cornered them with uncomfortable questions, and even kissed one would-be prime minister on the lips — was…
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Nothing stays the same, and our podcast is no exception
Every day, our Closer Look podcast chases the same mission: to learn something new. Whether we're dissecting a pressing issue, or speaking to a prominent guest, we try to leave the conversation knowing a bit more than before. We hope you've learned some things, too. Starting next week, we're...
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This is why Canada’s Wonderland adopted a new chaperone policy for kids
Canada’s Wonderland rode a roller coaster of headlines this week when it announced a new chaperone policy for kids. After 4 p.m., all children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult in order to stay at the iconic park. Any guests 15 or younger found inside Wonderland without a...
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AI robots for seniors? Time we start talking about our aging population
In Ontario, the number of people over the age of 80 is set to soar — and advocates say we're not doing enough to prepare for the demographic shift. We are definitely not alone. Countries around the world are grappling to prepare for the inevitable rise in elderly populations. Could AI dolls help...
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As final game looms, voice of the Leafs looks back on ‘dream’ career
For 44 years, Joe Bowen’s signature voice has been the soundtrack of Leafs Nation. But this season will be his last behind the mic — and with the Toronto Maple Leafs officially out of playoff contention, Bowen’s legendary career is down to its final few periods. His last game on the airwaves will...
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Every teenager needs to listen to this interview about jobs of the future
Our guest on tonight’s Closer Look is Ian Howcroft of Skills Ontario, an organization that empowers youth to explore careers in skilled trades and technologies. Reach out to Frisco and Scott
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Minimum wage is going up, but it’s still nowhere near a living wage
Ontario's minimum wage is set for another bump later this year, rising 35 cents to $17.95 an hour. But is that a living wage? Not even close. On tonight’s episode of Village Media’s Closer Look podcast, we dig deeper into the numbers with Craig Pickthorne of the Ontario Living Wage Network. Reach...
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These hi-tech mugshots help police track down Canada’s most wanted
Six months ago, we told you about the latest list of Canada's 25 most-wanted fugitives. The hi-tech mugshots are released annually by Canada’s Bolo program — “Be on the Lookout” — which is dedicated to helping police forces track down notorious murderers, drug traffickers and gang members. In the...
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Ford plus Carney equals more housing across Ontario?
Joining us on tonight’s Closer Look podcast is Aidan Chamandy, a reporter at TorontoToday who covered Monday's announcement by Prime Minister Mark Carney, Premier Doug Ford and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow. Reach out to Frisco and Scott
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You have one more day left to tell the government about your banned guns
Six years ago, the Trudeau government made the decision to ban more than 2,000 makes and models of assault-style firearms, including the notorious AR-15. The legislative change raised the obvious question: If a person purchased one of those guns back when they were legal, what now? The answer…
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Everything you need to know about Doug Ford’s latest unbalanced budget
The Ford government unveiled its latest provincial budget on Thursday — a record $244-billion fiscal roadmap (with a projected deficit of $13.8-billion). Joining us on tonight’s Closer Look podcast to break down all the numbers is Jessica Smith Cross, editor-in-chief of our Queen’s Park team at…
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Play ball! Blue Jays broadcaster Dan Shulman joins us for Opening Day chat
The Toronto Blue Jays came oh so close to capturing a World Series title last season — uniting fans from coast to coast in the process. Can they finish the job this year? Does the latest version of the Jays have what it takes to go on another magical run? The journey begins Friday with an Opening...
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What is ‘maple washing’ — and why are grocery stores getting fined for it?
The ‘Buy Canadian’ movement is still going strong — and federal food inspectors say they’re determined to help ensure shoppers know exactly what’s in their grocery carts. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency recently revealed that over the past year, it has fined five stores a combined $47,000 for...
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Here’s a winning bet: Let’s lose all those gambling ads before it's too late
Bruce Kidd, a now-retired professor at the University of Toronto, is our guest on tonight's episode of Village Media's Closer Look podcast. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner, Closer Look is a new daily podcast that goes way beyond the...
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Canada’s population actually shrank last year — is that a good thing?
For the first time in decades, the population of Canada declined from one year to the next. Statistics Canada says in 2025, the country’s population shrank by approximately 102,000 people — driven largely by the federal government’s efforts to shed the number of non-permanent residents. Joining…
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As retail theft soars, some businesses are eyeing drastic measures
A recent report found that retail crime in Canada “has escalated into a national crisis” that costs businesses across the country a whopping $9-billion a year. The situation is so dire in Winnipeg that some businesses are considering drastic measures — including asking customers to hand over…
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Why it’s time to start screening much sooner for colorectal cancer
For reasons that still aren’t certain, colorectal cancer is striking younger people like never before. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, people aged 45 to 50 are now two to two-and-a-half times more likely to be diagnosed than in previous generations. That is why experts are calling on...
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Should Canada ban all kids from social media?
Three months ago, Australia became the first country in the world to ban social media for kids under the age of 16. Many other governments are now eyeing the same idea, including Greece, Denmark, Malaysia and Norway. Should Canada legislate a similar social media ban? Prime Minister Mark Carney...
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This Ontario township is wiping Prince Andrew off the map
Today on Village Media’s ‘Closer Look’ podcast: We speak to the mayor of Selwyn Township about the push to erase the disgraced royal’s name from a local island. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner, Closer Look is a new daily podcast that...
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What is Doug Ford trying to hide? More than ever before
"Shocking announcement." "A recipe for a more corrupt government." A "bullshit" move that will "gut public trust." That was just some of the reaction to today's sudden news that the Ford government plans to overhaul the province’s freedom-of-information law to deny the public access to documents...
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This is your captain speaking: Doug Ford bent on bringing jets to island airport
Premier Doug Ford says the province will take over the City of Toronto’s stake in Billy Bishop Airport, clearing the path for larger planes on the island. “This is a crown jewel,” Ford said of Billy Bishop. “We need this. We need this desperately.” Lots of details still need to be ironed out, but...
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‘Absolutely deadly’: Ontario’s northern highways in desperate need of a fix
Welcome to a special road-trip edition of Village Media's Closer Look podcast. On tonight's episode, we catch up with members of the provincial NDP who've spent some quality time over the past week driving along Northern Ontario highways. The MPPs are on a campaign-style tour, meeting with local...
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How a settlement was finally reached in 14-year mall collapse lawsuit
Nearly 14 years after the roof caved in at Elliot Lake's shopping mall — killing two women and injuring 19 others — the tragedy is back in the headlines. A proposed settlement has finally been reached in a class-action lawsuit that was launched shortly after the collapse. If approved by a judge…
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Fantasy island? We fill you in on Doug Ford’s grand vision for new convention centre
Tonight on Village Media's 'Closer Look' podcast: Premier Ford says he is considering filling in part of Lake Ontario to make room for a multi-billion-dollar 'shock and awe' convention centre in Toronto. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek…
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Daylight saving time is a scam, but don’t forget to change your clock!
Tonight on Village Media's 'Closer Look' podcast: Few phrases get people more riled up than 'spring forward' and 'fall back' — so in advance of this weekend's time change, let's chime in on the debate. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner,...
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Ontario’s population is only growing older — what’s our plan?
Tonight on Village Media's 'Closer Look' podcast: The number of people over the age of 80 in our province is set to soar, and advocates say we're not doing enough to prepare for the demographic shift. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner,...
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Our wilderness is breathtaking — and worth billions to the economy
Tonight on Village Media's 'Closer Look' podcast: As Canada works to shore up its economy in the face of Donald Trump's tariffs, new research reveals the true value of protecting our natural beauty. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner,...
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How a new DNA technique has helped solve hundreds of cold cases
Tonight on Village Media's 'Closer Look' podcast: Investigative genetic genealogy is helping police across the world solve decades-old mysteries, including the crimes of a Toronto serial killer. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner, Closer...
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Trump was the ‘wake-up call’ our economy needed — will we listen?
Tonight on Village Media's 'Closer Look' podcast: Matthew Holmes from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce talks to us about the seemingly endless tariff war, and why he sees 'exciting' days ahead. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner, Closer...
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Violence against teachers, staff the ‘new normal’ in classrooms across Ontario
'Schools cannot be safe places to learn if they are not safe places to teach': Tonight on the Village Media's 'Closer Look' podcast, a new report sheds even more light on a growing problem. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner, Closer Look...
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Starting to panic about your March Break trip? Here’s what to do
Tonight on the Village Media's 'Closer Look' podcast: Should you stay away from Mexico? Cuba? Where should you go instead? Our travel expert has all the answers to your pressing vacation questions. Hosted by Village Media’s Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith, and produced by Derek Turner,...
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Are you a student who depends on OSAP? Your debt load is about to soar
Are you one of the many Ontario students who rely on OSAP to help cover tuition? Brace yourself. The Ford government has announced billions in new funding for colleges and universities, but the cash comes in tandem with a drastic overhaul to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). Until…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find. This podcast from Village Media — ‘Closer Look’ — is all about the stories we tell. Every Sunday morning at 8, hosts Michael Friscolanti and Scott Sexsmith go beyond the headlines with insightful, in-depth conversations featuring our reporters and editors, leading experts, key stakeholders and big newsmakers.
HOSTED BY
Village Media Inc.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Closer Look have?
Closer Look currently has 298 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Closer Look about?
In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find. This podcast from Village Media — ‘Closer Look’ — is all about the stories we tell. Every Sunday morning at 8, hosts Michael...
How often does Closer Look release new episodes?
Closer Look publishes regularly with 298 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Closer Look?
You can listen to Closer Look on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Closer Look?
Closer Look is created and hosted by Village Media Inc..
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