Best Toronto Metropolitan University Podcasts (2025)

1
The violence of uncertainty: Everyday impacts of precarious immigration status 58:14

1M ago58:14

58:14

Imagine this: at age three, your family relocates to a new country. You grow up normally—school, sports teams, friends. In Grade 12, you discover you lack immigration status, preventing university applications. Suddenly, you're not like your peers, and a life of hidden struggles and uncertainty unfolds. In the final episode of the season, Maggie Pe…

1
Beyond the Big City 42:26

2M ago42:26

42:26

Not everything happens in big cities. This episode explores how small and mid-sized cities in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are attracting and retaining immigrants. Researchers unpack regional migration policies, what helps newcomers settle, and how to build communities that thrive beyond the skyline. Guests: Sarah Wiseman, Canada Branch Direc…

1
Skills shortages, AI and the future of work 51:26

2M ago51:26

51:26

AI, aging populations, and the energy transition: how are these forces reshaping the job market and global migration? In this episode, distinguished guests walk us through how automation is transforming industries, influencing hiring, and impacting migrant workers. Are we creating new opportunities or just making it harder for them to find decent j…

1
What’s driving migration? 50:51

3M ago50:51

50:51

What shapes migration patterns across different regions? How do economic, social, and political factors drive movement in unique ways? The MEMO project seeks to untangle these complexities, mapping the connections between internal, intraregional, and intercontinental migration. In this episode, host Maggie Perzyna and her guest experts explore how …

1
Rethinking Climate Migration: "Are We Missing the Point?" 25:49

3M ago25:49

25:49

In the premiere episode of Voices on the Move, a podcast by Migration Matters, experts delve into the complex relationship between climate change and migration. Scholars Dr. François Gemenne from the University of Liège, Dr. Nassim Majidi of Samuel Hall, and Dr. Yvonne Su from York University challenge common assumptions such as "one billion climat…

1
How do I decentre that? 50:26

4M ago50:26

50:26

Decentring research means challenging Western paradigms, amplifying diverse perspectives, and rethinking power dynamics and knowledge production. This is easier said than done, especially in migration studies, where control, security, and economic views dominate the debate. But understanding the lived realities of migrants must be more than just a …

1
False narratives with real consequences: The impact of social media disinformation on migration policy 50:41

4M ago50:41

50:41

The rise in false narratives surrounding immigrants and refugees is often amplified by social media and manipulated for political gain. In this episode, host Maggie Perzyna unpacks the dangerous intersection between digital disinformation and immigration. Experts emphasize this critical area of study as social media networks increasingly shape publ…

1
Irregular not irrelevant: Conceptualizing and measuring irregular migration 43:55

6M ago43:55

43:55

When exploring the big questions migration scholars are asking, irregular migration is impossible to ignore. In this episode, Maggie Perzyna engages with activists and scholars on the ground to gain deeper insights into this complex issue, the factors driving it, and the impact it has on both migrants and communities. Guests: Brynn Campbell, founde…

1
Next-gen nursing: How simulation labs are advancing nursing education 13:14

6M ago13:14

13:14

Discover how Toronto Metropolitan University is shaping the next generation of nurses through immersive, hands-on education. Backed by a $1 million donation from the FDC Foundation, these innovative simulation labs immerse students in realistic healthcare scenarios, preparing them for the complexities of modern nursing by utilizing the latest techn…

1
Artful connections: Challenging narratives of migration and belonging using arts-based methods 55:02

6M ago55:02

55:02

This episode takes a closer look at the powerful intersection of art and migration studies. How can creative expression challenge dominant narratives and help reshape the way we think about migration? Maggie Perzyna learns about art-based and community-based projects that move the needle. We also hear about WhereWeStand, a powerful multimedia story…

1
From startup to success: How TMU’s leading tech incubator is advancing entrepreneurship 16:18

6M ago16:18

16:18

TMU’s DMZ has earned its place as the world’s top university-based tech incubator with its 14 years of experience, 1000+ startups and $2.76 billion in funding. By providing entrepreneurs with the tools to build, launch and scale their ventures, DMZ fuels groundbreaking innovation while shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Canada. Discover how …

1
Changing fashion for all: How Aille Design is revolutionizing inclusive clothing 14:34

6M ago14:34

14:34

Shopping for clothes is typically a visual experience, but for those who are partially or totally blind, it can be challenging. Enter Aille Design, founded by Alexa Jovanovic, a Fashion Communication '16 alumna, and incubated in TMU’s Fashion Zone. Aille integrates braille into its designs, making garments fully legible for braille readers. Discove…

1
What is a solidarity city? 48:02

7M ago48:02

48:02

This episode explores how cities can become sanctuaries for migrants and refugees. Follow Maggie Perzyna as she discovers how grassroots efforts and city-level practices can create more inclusive urban environments. We also hear about the Soli*City project, an international initiative creating urban strategies that help migrants and refugees to int…

1
The silent epidemic: The growing crisis of loneliness in Canada's seniors 13:33

7M ago13:33

13:33

There’s a silent epidemic impacting older Canadians over the age of 50. A new report from Toronto Metropolitan University'’s National Institute on Ageing (NIA) revealed that 40 per cent of Canadians aged 50 and over are at risk of struggling with social isolation. In this episode, we explore the growing issue of loneliness among older adults in Can…

1
The future of learning is AI: How ProfBot is transforming education 12:38

7M ago12:38

12:38

Artificial intelligence in higher education comes with its challenges, but one Toronto Metropolitan University professor has turned AI into an asset. Meet ProfBot, the revolutionary AI study buddy developed by Dr. Sean Wise. Learn how this innovative tool has helped students increase their grades — transforming the way students learn and the future…

1
Nothing about us without us 51:44

7M ago51:44

51:44

Welcome back to Borders and Belonging! In the first episode of Season 3, host Maggie Perzyna explores the power of collective action and the importance of centering refugee voices. She is joined by three special guests to discuss how academics and policymakers can ensure that the experiences of those most affected by migration policies guide decisi…

1
Shaping the future of medicine: How TMU is redefining patient care 13:25

7M ago13:25

13:25

What if the next time you see a doctor, you are treated as a person, not just a patient, and your culture and background are embraced, not overlooked? That’s the vision Toronto Metropolitan University’s School of Medicine is bringing to life. Through its bold new approach to medical education, TMU is transforming health care in Ontario to provide a…

1
Season 5: Trailer 1:13

7M ago1:13

1:13

Our award-winning podcast, The Forefront, is back for another season! Join us as we explore disruptions in healthcare, education, technology, fashion, and beyond.By Toronto Metropolitan University

1
Borders & Belonging: Season 3 Trailer 1:33

7M ago1:33

1:33

In Season 3 of Borders & Belonging, host Maggie Perzyna continues her mission, zooming in on the key questions being asked by migration scholars. What is the potential of city-level sanctuary policies to inspire innovative solutions for migrant and refugee inclusion at the urban level? How can research address migrant agency and the drivers of migr…

1
The Conversation Weekly: The Brexit roots of the UK's Rwanda asylum plan – and why other EU leaders might want to copy it 31:16

11M ago31:16

31:16

A controversial British government plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda has been central to the UK’s response to a recent sharp increase in the number of people making the dangerous journey across the English Channel in small boats. But if the Conservative party loses the general election in early July, the Rwanda plan is likely to be abandoned. I…

1
Statelessness: No country to call home 45:05

1y ago45:05

45:05

In the Season 2 finale, host Maggie Perzyna asks her guests: What does it mean to live without a nationality? This episode of Borders & Belonging will dive into the complexities behind statelessness, its causes and social realities, and the far-reaching effects it has on individuals and communities. Guests: Rintu Borah, PhD candidate at the Indian …

1
From oil to innovation: Changing economies in the Gulf 43:58

1y ago43:58

43:58

Did you know that the Middle East holds the world's highest ratio of migrants to its national population? From historical ties to the oil economy to the burgeoning knowledge-based economies of today, host Maggie Perzyna explores how evolving economic landscapes in the Gulf are reshaping migration dynamics. Guests: Deepak Unnikrishnan, Assistant Pro…

1
As Real As It Gets: A new type of firefighter suit that is disrupting the industry 12:08

1y ago12:08

12:08

Smoke, noise, disorientation— when firefighters are inside a burning building, the ability to get out safely is a challenge. In this episode, we speak with Michael Stanfield, a former Toronto fire chief and co-founder of IFTech, and Alex Ferworn, Director of the Computational Public Safety Lab at TMU, about the “As Real as It Gets” suit, which util…

1
Rising tides, sinking roots: Climate change, adaptation and mobility in Pacific Island nations 47:49

1y ago47:49

47:49

Land is a critical component of Pacific Island societies, and the impact of climate change on these populations is a growing global concern. Host Maggie Perzyna, along with esteemed guest researchers and a community consultant from one of the world's lowest lying countries, seeks to understand the regional implications of climate change and the rol…

1
Staying Ahead of the “Curv”: A microcredential that is changing the educational landscape 11:49

1y ago11:49

11:49

The job market is changing at a rapid speed, making it difficult for both those looking to get hired and for those doing the hiring. How can we address this skills gap? In this episode, we speak with Matt McInnis, an educational technology leader, and with Gary Hepburn, dean of The Chang School, about microcredentials: a skills-based training and c…

1
Turning Music Into Medicine: The power of binaural beats 13:59

1y ago13:59

13:59

More than 50 per cent of Canadians report that their mental health has worsened since the beginning of the pandemic. And while treatments like therapy and medication can help, they can be hard to access — and expensive. In this episode, we speak with the team behind a music therapy app called LUCID: Aaron Labbé, who turned to music as a source of c…

1
The Migration Podcast: "Road families" en route to the Mexico-US border 19:16

1y ago19:16

19:16

Itzel Eguiluz speaks with Alejandra Díaz de León about how the journey of Central American migrants walking north, through Mexico, is about much more than just having practical strategies to survive the journey. Solidarity, trust and social bonds that are formed along the way, can also be valuable elements of the experience. We hear about what Alej…

1
Fashioning Health Care: Humanizing the experience for breast cancer patients 12:50

1y ago12:50

12:50

A lot of things about being a breast cancer patient can feel dehumanizing, but one thing that can change is what patients are given to wear on their chest. In this episode, we speak with patient advocate Jennifer Schultz and Jessica Mudry, director of the Healthcare User Experience (HUE) Lab at TMU, about applying humanities thinking — like fashion…

1
The Quantum Wallet: Leveraging innovation to combat identity theft 12:30

1y ago12:30

12:30

In 2018, hackers got hold of TMU alumna Erin MacDonald’s personal information and began a tsunami of purchases — affecting her credit rating and causing profound stress. In this episode, we speak with Erin about the theft of her identity, along with global information technology leader Claudette McGowan and TMU-based computer scientist Javaid Zahid…

1
Is Japan turning into a migration state? 50:11

1+ y ago50:11

50:11

Despite its historical reputation for social, political, and legal closure and a certain reluctance towards admitting immigrants, Japan is taking steps towards a more inclusive national immigration policy. In this episode, host Maggie Perzyna and her guests explore the evolving role of Japan as a migration state, shedding light on innovative polici…

1
Season 4: Trailer 1:06

1+ y ago1:06

1:06

Our award-winning podcast is back for another season! This time we’re exploring human-centred innovation, from designing a post-surgical garment for breast cancer patients to employing robotics to help first responders.By Amanda Cupido

1
The Arctic: Climate, resources and migration in times of change 44:19

1+ y ago44:19

44:19

While the Arctic has been home to Indigenous peoples for millennia, settlers in the past few centuries have been drawn to the region's remote wilderness, majestic landscapes and ample resources. More recently, global market forces and climate change are shaping migration to the Arctic in new and complex ways. Guests: Malini Sengupta, coordinator at…

1
Migration & technology: The rise of digital nomads 42:21

1+ y ago42:21

42:21

A small but increasing number of today's knowledge workers are breaking free from traditional offices, using technology to craft a life that blends work, travel and freedom. In this episode, host Maggie Perzyna and her guests dive deep into the changing nature of work and the rise of digital nomads. What is driving this growing phenomenon, and how …

1
Brokering borders: EU bilateral agreements and the price of ‘return migration’ 43:53

1+ y ago43:53

43:53

In the pursuit of controlling its external borders, the European Union has forged numerous bilateral agreements with African countries. These agreements are not just pieces of paper, they're instruments that wield immense influence over the movement of people between Europe and Africa. In this episode, host Maggie Perzyna seeks to understand how EU…

1
Why is xenophobia so entrenched in South Africa? 37:15

1+ y ago37:15

37:15

In contrast to the late Desmond Tutu's hopeful aspirations for the "rainbow nation" and his efforts to champion human rights, post-apartheid South Africa has been marked by xenophobic violence, adding insecurities for both citizens and foreign nationals. In this episode, host Maggie Perzyna asks why xenophobia has become so entrenched across the po…

1
How border policies in the Americas are pushing people to travel across the treacherous Darién Gap 38:25

1+ y ago38:25

38:25

The Darién Gap, also dubbed as “Hell on Earth”, has become a leading transit point for migrants in search of work and safety in North America since authorities have cracked down on other routes by air and sea. In this episode, host Maggie Perzyna investigates how global migration regimes push migrants to risk their lives for a chance at a better li…

1
Why are so many undocumented migrants in the US Indigenous? 39:35

1+ y ago39:35

39:35

Every year, hundreds of thousands of migrants from Central America and Mexico make their way to the US border, fleeing violence, environmental destruction, persecution, and displacement. Many of these migrants are from indigenous groups. In the first episode of Season 2, host Maggie Perzyna explores the historical roots of this migration, and how t…

1
Borders & Belonging: Season 2 Trailer 1:46

1+ y ago1:46

1:46

In Season 2 of Borders & Belonging, host Maggie Perzyna continues her mission to shed light on the voices and stories often overlooked. She takes listeners on a world tour, asking questions like “what fuels xenophobia in South Africa? Is Japan becoming a migration state? And “how is technology changing the places where people work and the countries…

1
Does brain drain hurt the Global South? 38:03

2y ago38:03

38:03

Many countries are mining the Global South for one of its vital natural resources – its people. This creates a ‘brain drain’ of professionals and academics leaving the Global South in search of better opportunities abroad. Why exactly is this happening, though, and what is the socio-economic harm done to the countries left behind? Is brain drain sa…

1
Are Ukrainian refugees still ‘temporary’? 37:14

2y ago37:14

37:14

Since February 2022, over 19m Ukrainians have fled their country. Almost half probably remain spread across the world, most of them in Europe. They are considered temporary refugees – but are they really temporary? Where are these people, and what challenges face their host countries? First in this episode, we'll hear from Aleksandra and Michał Mis…

1
Should we call people climate refugees? 34:35

2y ago34:35

34:35

As temperatures rise around the planet, floods, drought and deforestation are forcing people in the Global South from their homes and livelihoods. The media likes to call them climate refugees, but is that accurate? This episode will unpack the catchy phrase and guide us through some of the nuanced intersections between the environment and migratio…

1
Are migrants the answer to labour shortages? 44:14

2y ago44:14

44:14

Nations in the global North are struggling with labour shortages dubbed in the media as ‘the great retirement' and ‘the great resignation'. Unemployment rates are running at near-record lows. As a result many nations are letting more temporary migrant labourers in to fill the gaps. Is this a good idea? In this episode we'll hear from someone on the…

1
Rethinking Clean Transportation: How cities can be designed to reduce emissions 14:52

2+ y ago14:52

14:52

According to TMU's Centre for Urban Energy, by 2030, 80% of the world's population will live in urban areas, so the way we use energy will impact the way we live, work and grow as a community. This has many people – including TMU alumni, looking for alternative modes of transportation. In this episode, we speak with two alumni entrepreneurs about t…

1
Bike Lanes and Big Cities: Keeping people moving with protected bike lanes 15:01

2+ y ago15:01

15:01

Canadians continue to be divided on bike lanes on city streets. However, research out of TMU shows that after developing protected bike lanes, four in ten users in Toronto were new cyclists. Before this infrastructure existed, these cyclists would have used an alternate means of travel. This is good news for municipalities looking to reduce congest…

1
The migrants that the West doesn’t talk about 39:55

2+ y ago39:55

39:55

From the way Western media and politicians talk about migration, you’d never guess that only 30% of refugees, asylum seekers and economic migrants are heading for the Global North. Instead, most people on the move like this are travelling from one country in the Global South to another. Why does this get so little coverage? What are the most popula…

1
City Living: How noisy is too noisy? 13:07

2+ y ago13:07

13:07

For city dwellers, noise is just part of the package – but how noisy is too noisy? Research shows that ongoing exposure to noise can negatively impact your health, leading to conditions like heart disease and diabetes. And according to the United Nations Environment Program – it's also a top environmental risk. In this episode, we hear from TMU's l…

1
Why has China become an international student hub? 36:14

2+ y ago36:14

36:14

For years, many students from China sought to further their studies in countries like the US or the UK. But in the past decade or so, China has itself become a hub for international students. In this episode, two leading researchers will shed light on this phenomenon, and help us understand how and why China has become such a popular destination fo…

1
Generation Climate: A youth-driven climate change initiative 11:24

2+ y ago11:24

11:24

Canadian youth are becoming increasingly concerned about the climate change crisis impacting our country and the world. TMU's Leadership Lab is working towards building factual awareness around solutions to the challenge of climate change through a youth-driven initiative known as Generation Climate. In this episode, we discuss the implications of …

1
Environmental Racism: Why certain communities are more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change 15:50

2+ y ago15:50

15:50

In Canada and around the world, Black Indigenous and people of colour are more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Research has shown that racialized communities in Canada have higher exposure to air pollution and less access to green spaces. In this episode, we discuss the gaps in the research and the fight for environmental justice in Ca…

1
Special Episode: A deep dive into the renaming of our university 15:35

2+ y ago15:35

15:35

In 2021 the Standing Strong Task Force provided a list of recommendations for how the university can address the legacy of Egerton Ryerson and forge a new chapter. One of the recommendations was a renaming to reflect our university values better. The process included feedback from over 30,000 people, with over 2,600 name suggestions. In April 2022,…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Toronto Metropolitan University Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide