The Secret Life of Canada

Podcast Review by Miriam Roth (she/her), Educational Support Staff, District 9, Greater Essex

The Secret Life of Canada podcast, hosted by Falen Johnson and Leah-Simone Bowen, is an engaging and enlightening series that concluded in January 2025. The podcast explores lesser-known historical and cultural events that have shaped Canada, its people, and its global relationships, presenting complex topics in easy-to-understand format. All seven seasons are still accessible on CBC Listen and other podcast platforms.

The hosts tackle systemic problems and human rights issues with a mix of brief “crash courses” and in-depth analyses, with esteemed guests and personal anecdotes adding depth. Stories, discussion, humour, wit, and sarcasm are used to address serious issues like the lack of access to resources and opportunities (i.e. clean water on reserves) and social exclusion. The hosts effectively link everyday events to significant discriminatory and hurtful practices upheld by the legal system, which are often eye-opening to the listener.

Episodes cover a range of diverse topics, from Black Canadian history, gender politics and Queer visibility to honouring forgotten Korean War veterans and teen TV and entertainment. Episodes on the Indian Act, Potlatch Ban, and Pow Wows highlight the loss of Indigenous land, language, culture, and treaty rights, while also showcasing community resilience and resourcefulness. While educating listeners about Canada’s hidden history, the podcast explains and encourages mindful language use and offers actionable steps for creating change in our communities. Additionally, the hosts openly discuss their own ignorance and vulnerabilities, which encouraging listeners to feel comfortable enough to do the same.

Overall, The Secret Life of Canada is a powerful exploration of Canadian diversity and systemic issues, fostering deeper understanding and compassion among its audience. The podcast’s storytelling and explicit explanations reveal how these issues are woven into the fabric of Canada. The podcast is recommended for anyone interested in social justice at the intersection of Canada’s history.

www.cbc.ca/listen/cbc-podcasts/203-the-secret-life-of-canada