As It Happens

As It Happens

News that’s not afraid of fun. Meet people at the centre of the day’s most hard-hitting, hilarious and heartbreaking stories — powerful leaders, proud eccentrics and ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. And plenty of puns too. Hosted by Nil Köksal and Chris Howden, find out why As It Happens is one of Canada’s longest-running and most beloved shows. (Ahem, we literally helped make the beaver a national symbol.)


New episodes Monday to Friday by 7:30 pm E.T.

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Episode's summary

This episode covers a range of global news, beginning with the aftermath of a powerful earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan, and the long-awaited cleanup of a malodorous fish sauce factory in St. Mary's, Newfoundland. The program also explores an auction of historical items from Colonel Sanders' estate, scientific advancements in self-repairing living textiles made from fungi, and the devastating impact of wildfires on a ranch in British Columbia. Additionally, the episode features stories regarding the growth of women's football in Africa during the Women's Africa Cup of Nations and the breaking of a 75-year Gaelic football curse for County Mayo. The episode concludes with a dramatic account of a near-drowning rescue at Manuel's River in Newfoundland.

Chapters

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Highlights

Suddenly, a strong shake occurred and everything on my desk and on top of the cupboard and everything has collapsed.

00:03:41 · The interviewee describes the immediate physical impact of the earthquake inside his office.

It's like a rotting whale is right there, right in front of you.

00:13:06 · The Mayor uses a vivid comparison to describe the intense and overwhelming stench of the fermenting fish sauce.

Chinese scientists have just made something very exciting, a dress woven from a living textile, which will actually repair itself if it's damaged.

00:25:38 · The presenter introduces a new scientific development involving self-repairing clothing made from fungus.

This expansion, it means more visibility for African women.

00:39:30 · Gladys Midecha explains how the increase in tournament teams provides better opportunities and recognition for African female athletes.

Pure panic. It was horrifying.

00:52:53 · Tristan Vincent describes her immediate emotional state during the moment her daughter was swept away by the water.

Episodes

3060-

This stink is finally coming off this Newfoundland town

This episode covers a range of global news, beginning with the aftermath of a powerful earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan, and the long-awaited cleanup of a malodorous fish sauce factory in St. Mary's, Newfoundland. The program also explores an auction of historical items from Colonel Sanders' estate, scientific advancements in self-repairing living textiles made from fungi, and the devastating impact of wildfires on a ranch in British Columbia. Additionally, the episode features stories regarding the growth of women's football in Africa during the Women's Africa Cup of Nations and the breaking of a 75-year Gaelic football curse for County Mayo. The episode concludes with a dramatic account of a near-drowning rescue at Manuel's River in Newfoundland.

28 Jul 2026
3059-

From celebration to sorrow in Berlin

This episode covers a range of global news, beginning with the impact of a fatal van attack at a Pride event in Berlin and the rising burnout rates among Canadian emergency room physicians. The program also explores scientific discoveries regarding universal motifs in birdsong and the health benefits of switching from gas to electric stoves. Additionally, we report on the devastating wildfires in southwest France and the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge. The episode concludes with a look at the legacy of anatomist Gunther von Hagens and Rick Moranis's appearance at San Diego Comic-Con.

27 Jul 2026
3058-

Winner of ‘Nobel Prize for math’ on the threat posed by AI

This episode features an interview with mathematician Jacob Zimmerman on the future of mathematics and his decision to join OpenAI's safety division due to concerns about AI outpacing human research. The program also examines the devastating impact of USAID funding cuts in Nepal, which have forced 2SLGBTQ plus aid workers into sex work for survival, and how funding challenges are affecting HIV/AIDS services for transgender communities in Brazil. Additional reports cover the successful campaign to reopen the Cinerama Dome in Los Angeles, a unique Spanish tradition honoring soccer players with tomatoes, and an analysis of Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and their connection to Iran. The episode concludes with stories ranging from heroic nurses saving a life to the history and fame of Larry the Cat, the official mouser at 10 Downing Street.

24 Jul 2026
3057-

This four-foot-six woman is Matt Damon’s Odyssey stunt double

23 Jul 2026
3056-

Is Windsor-Detroit bridge deal compromise or capitulation?

This episode of As It Happens explores a range of pressing news stories, from the political controversy surrounding the Gordie Howe Bridge toll-sharing agreement to the devastating impact of the opioid crisis among Ontario construction workers. The program also examines the economic anxieties of small businesses facing new U.S. tariffs and critiques of American trade policy toward Canada versus China. In lighter segments, we visit a massive nutcracker collection in Minnesota, pay tribute to legendary saxophonist Plas Johnson, and delve into archaeological findings regarding the physical training of ancient Egyptian princesses. The episode concludes with a humorous look at the international rivalry between moose statues in Canada and Norway.

22 Jul 2026