The Secret Life of Canada

The country you know and the stories you don't. Join hosts Leah-Simone Bowen and Falen Johnson as they reveal the beautiful, terrible and weird histories of this land. New episodes every second Thursday. Visit us at www.cbc.ca/secretlife for show links, transcripts and more! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Subscribe to Sounds Good: CBC's Podcast newsletter for the finest podcast recommendations and behind-the-scenes exclusives.
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Hosts & Guests
The secret life of canada
2024-11-22
OMG I love this show! Funny and educational- what more could want? They do delve into difficult topics as well with a strong yet light touch. I keeps me coming back.
Ethically dubious
2024-12-02
I really wish this show invested in proper historical methods and not just deciding what “angle” they will take prior to doing the research
Amazing
2024-11-22
If I could rate The Secret Life of Canada 10/5 stars, I absolutely would. This podcast is not only incredibly informative, but it also manages to present complex and often uncomfortable parts of Canadian history in a way that is engaging, relatable, and far from bland. It strikes a perfect balance between serious education and dynamic storytelling, making history accessible to everyone. I strongly disagree with those who label this podcast as “juvenile.” That critique misses the mark entirely. The hosts’ approach is conversational, yes, but that’s what makes it so powerful. It’s refreshing to hear history explored by intelligent, witty voices from minority perspectives—be it women, Indigenous peoples, or other marginalized groups. They have every right to critique the darker aspects of Canadian history, especially the systemic harm endured by their communities. This isn’t frivolity; it’s honest, thoughtful storytelling from people who deeply care about the truth. What stands out most to me is the energy and personality the hosts bring to every episode. They’re funny, sharp, and clearly put in a tremendous amount of research and effort. Unlike the monotony of many history podcasts, The Secret Life of Canada feels alive and vibrant. You can sense their passion for telling these stories, even when they’re hard to hear. I suspect some of the discomfort critics express comes from the fact that women (especially minority women) are unflinchingly critiquing and joking about history—critiques that often challenge the dominant narratives many listeners may have grown up with. For some, that can hit a nerve, particularly if their ancestors played roles in the injustices being discussed. But that discomfort is part of growth, and the humor and relatability the hosts bring to these stories make them even more impactful. As someone who listens to a lot of podcasts—especially CBC ones—this is by far one of my favorites. I genuinely hope this podcast continues for years to come, as it is an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to understand Canada beyond the sanitized versions of its history.
Educational and entertaining!
2024-02-29
I use parts of this in my social studies class. Well-researched and beautifully delivered by these talented women. Thank-you!
Terrible podcast
2024-08-10
I now understand why people say “defund the CBC”. This podcast should be named “why I hate Canada and the people who made it”. What exactly is the point of even doing this podcast. So one sided. I agree with other reviews on how juvenile it is.
Stick to the topic
2024-06-27
The topics are really interesting and could be great show - but often the hosts get sidetracked and make jokes that are so distracting. It’s a little too much. We get it, you’re trying to be edgy and irreverent, but it’s at the expense of the history you’re trying to represent.
Juvenile
2024-05-06
In the very first episode the women are laughing about cannibalism and minimalising the Hudson’s Bay Company. I know what they are trying to say but it comes across as unreliable, biased, and juvenile. This can be done with decorum.
Real
2024-01-28
A great podcast that should be a entry requirement to enter Canada ( even 4 vacation) 🎉💯✔️
Listened to every single episode!
2024-01-04
I started listening to your podcast a few months ago and instantly fell in love! What a great podcast - informative, fun, but with an appropriate seriousness for the tough topics that we otherwise don’t ever learn about (or topics that we learn wrong). I appreciate the hosts SO much, and all the workers behind them, for this incredible series. Please keep making this! I’m hooked
The best Ever
2023-08-29
I LOVE your pod cast! I have an hour commute to work everyday and I so look forward to your episodes! You are both so funny and have such important things to say! I just can’t get enough! You are my first podcast, and every other podcast I listen to, just is not you and can’t compare! Thank you for sharing!!!
About
Information
- Channel
- CreatorCBC
- Years Active2018 - 2025
- Episodes118
- RatingClean
- CopyrightCopyright © CBC 2025
- Show Website
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