Tokyo's government will begin rolling out a four-day work week for some of its employees, as part of an effort to combat the country’s declining birth rate by improving work-life balance. With Canada facing its own record-low fertility rates, could a similar policy make a difference here? Marcy Markusa speaks with Shelley Clark, a demographer and sociology professor at McGill University.

Also on the podcast: Melanie Zebrynski tried for years to get a tubal ligation, only to eventually give up after facing pushback from her doctor. Meanwhile, her fiancé was easily able to get a vasectomy. She talks about the challenges of advocating for herself.

A recent report found Black Manitobans face the longest ER wait times, even when arriving with more serious conditions. Sume Ndumbe Eyoh, director of the Black Health Education Collaborative, speaks with host Marcy Markusa about the study's findings and what needs to happen next. And Dr. Barry Lavallee, chief executive officer of Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin Inc, explains why he feels the report falls short on reflecting lived Indigenous experience.

Travel Manitoba's Allison Dalke talks with host Marcy Markusa about how families can make the most of their summer vacation. From affordable getaways and hidden gems to festivals, camping and glamping, she offers tips for exploring the province — and explains why more people are choosing to stay close to home this summer.