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This is Vancouver

This is Vancouver

312 episodes — Page 5 of 7

How Does Poetry Shape How We View the World Around Us?

Upstart & Crow, a creative studio and literary incubator, just announced Preeti Kaur Dhaliwal as their poet in residence for 2025. The former lawyer joins us to talk about what drew her to poetry full time.

Apr 9, 20259 min

What do Vancouver’s by-election results say about voter sentiment?

Two progressive candidates won Vancouver’s by-election, but Mayor Ken Sim’s ABC party still holds council’s majority. Stephen Quinn speaks with ABC councillor Lisa Dominato about what the results mean—and how the party is interpreting the message from voters.

Apr 8, 20257 min

What will two new faces bring to Vancouver City Council?

Vancouver has elected two new city councillors: Sean Orr with the Coalition of Progressive Electors and OneCity's Lucy Maloney. Stephen Quin sits down with Sean and Lucy to talk about their plans to represent Vancouverites.

Apr 7, 202520 min

What happens when funding for at-risk seniors disappears?

A pilot program that helped vulnerable seniors age safely at home has lost its funding with just 11 days' notice. Whole Way House president Jenny Konkin joins Stephen Quinn to explain why the program matters and what happens next.

Apr 4, 20258 min

How are small businesses coping with crime in Vancouver?

Retail theft is rising — and some Vancouver business owners are taking security into their own hands. Stephen Quinn hears from two shopkeepers on the front lines and explores the city’s new plan to tackle the problem: a retail security task force.

Apr 3, 202511 min

Why did the NDP change its mind on carbon pricing?

Premier David Eby calls it a “toxic” policy, and now it’s gone. Stephen Quinn speaks with former BC Green MLA Adam Olsen and Energy Minister Adrian Dix about what led to the NDP’s reversal on the consumer carbon tax—and what it means for B.C.’s climate future.

Apr 2, 202520 min

Will cutting the carbon tax actually save you money at the pump?

After a late-night vote, B.C.’s legislature has scrapped the provincial carbon tax. Katie DeRosa explains the politics behind the decision, and energy economist Mark Jaccard weighs in on what this means for your gas bill. 

Apr 1, 202521 min

What does the closure of a major clinic mean for abortion access in Vancouver?

One of Vancouver’s three standalone abortion clinics is closing after 35 years. What does that mean for reproductive health care across the province—and for patients who travel long distances to access it? Dr. Renee Hall, a physician at the Elizabeth Bagshaw Clinic, talks to Stephen Quinn about what’s at stake.

Mar 31, 20258 min

What’s Driving the 4% Transit Fare Increase?

Transit riders are bracing for a bigger-than-usual fare hike this summer. Stephen Quinn talks to UBC transportation expert Alex Bigazzi about why the increase is happening, and what it means for the future of public transit in Metro Vancouver.

Mar 28, 20256 min

What do Surrey voters want in this election?

As the federal campaign heats up, The Current’s Matt Galloway kicks off his cross-country tour in Surrey. We drop in on a candid conversation with local voters to hear what’s on their minds—and what they want from Ottawa.

Mar 27, 202522 min

How Burnaby is making music lessons more accessible

As Burnaby’s Michael Bublé gets ready to host the Junos, we meet another Burnaby musician who’s quietly transforming access to music. Joe Keithley — punk legend and city councillor — is making sure more kids can pick up an instrument. 

Mar 26, 20255 min

Why Is Vancouver looking to shrink its biggest pool?

The Vancouver Aquatic Centre is overdue for a major upgrade—but a new plan to cut the pool in half is making waves. Swimmers, coaches, and community groups are pushing back. Stephen Quinn speaks with Jeannie Lo, President of the Canadian Dolphin Swim Club, about why a 50-metre pool matters.

Mar 25, 20257 min

What will Gregor Robertson bring to the Liberals' election campaign?

Former Vancouver mayor Gregor Robertson is back in politics—this time as a federal Liberal candidate. Stephen Quinn asks him why he's running and how he feels about carbon tax cuts and pipelines.

Mar 24, 202511 min

Wait… Am I Voting in a New Riding?

With a federal election on the horizon, some voters in Vancouver might find themselves casting their ballots in a different riding—whether they realize it or not. CBC’s Carolyn Jack joins host Stephen Quinn to break down the changes to electoral boundaries and what they mean for you.

Mar 21, 20258 min

What does a surge in Canadian nationalism mean for a country built out of colonialism?

With an election on the horizon, Prime Minister Mark Carney is talking about Canadian sovereignty—but what does that mean for Indigenous communities? Host Stephen Quinn speaks to Kory Wilson, Val Napoleon, and Melanie Mark to explore how these conversations land with First Nations leaders.

Mar 20, 202516 min

Should Surrey have Waterfront Entertainment District?

The Fraser River waterfront in Surrey around the Pattullo Bridge is mainly industrial land, but City Council is exploring whether to change that. They've approved a feasibility study for the creation of a new entertainment district. For more, Stephen spoke to interim CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade, Indra Bhan.

Mar 19, 20256 min

What a historic land agreement means for the Tla’amin Nation and Powell River.

A big land deal in Powell River is making history—giving the Tla’amin Nation back a major piece of its ancestral territory at the tiskwat mill site. But how did this agreement come together, and what does it mean for the Nation’s future? Stephen Quinn talks to Tla’amin legislator Erik Blaney about the long road to this moment, why it matters, and what’s next for the community.

Mar 18, 20257 min

How a Vancouver software developer is helping consumers to buy Canadian

It can be confusing for consumers to identify which country products originate from. A Vancouver software developer has come up with an idea that he believes will simplify the process. Stephen Quinn spoke to the founder of isthat.ca on Friday's edition of This is Vancouver.

Mar 14, 202510 min

Local Vancouver Band Getting Closer to Juno Win

Vancouver indie pop band Peach Pit is nominated for Alternative Album of the Year and is slated to perform at the awards night March 30.

Mar 13, 20257 min

What happens when an intrepid municipal reporter travels the world for a year?

For the past year, CBC's municipal reporter Justin McElroy has been traveling around the world. He got back into Vancouver this week and the first thing he had to do was come into studio to talk about it.

Mar 12, 202511 min

Why you should vote in Vancouver's next by-election

In less than four weeks, Vancouver residents will get to vote in a by-election to fill two seats on city council. We talk with Cambie Report podcast host, Matthew Naylor, and political consultant, Maria Dobrinskaya about why municipal politics matter.

Mar 11, 202512 min

Vancouver MLA booted from B.C. Conservative caucus for 'mocking' testimony of residential school survivors

Vancouver-Quilchena MLA Dallas Brodie was kicked out of the B.C. Conservative caucus on Friday over comments she made during an appearance on a video podcast, which party leader John Rustad characterized as mocking the testimony of residential school survivors. Rustad spoke to Stephen Quinn on Monday's episode of This is Vancouver about the road ahead for the party, which is now down to 41 seats in the Legislature.

Mar 10, 202516 min

How is a Richmond firm converting pickup trucks into electric vehicles?

When you imagine an electric vehicle, what comes to mind? Is it a Toyota Prius? A Tesla? Maybe it's the bus you ride every morning. The first image that pops in your head is probably not a pickup truck. But a Richmond company is working to change that. Stephen Quinn speaks with one of the people behind it on this episode of This is Vancouver.

Mar 7, 20258 min

Is Surrey Being Shortchanged?

Surrey is one of the fastest-growing cities in B.C., but is it getting the funding it needs? Mayor Brenda Locke says the latest provincial budget fails Surrey families. She joins host Stephen Quinn to explain why she thinks her city is being left behind.

Mar 6, 20257 min

How Will Trump’s Tariffs Hit B.C. Businesses?

U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports could put as many as 45,000 B.C. jobs at risk. We hear from two local business owners already feeling the squeeze.

Mar 5, 202511 min

Why some in Chinatown are backing Vancouver’s housing freeze

Vancouver’s plan to freeze new supportive housing in the Downtown Eastside has sparked debate. Some Chinatown organizations back the move—but not Mark Lee of Kam Wai Dim Sum. He joins SUCCESS Foundation CEO Queenie Choo to break down what this means for the neighbourhood.

Mar 4, 202511 min

How is Langley City Handling its Population Boom?

Langley City is growing—fast. With a population surge of 16.4% in just three years, it’s nearly doubling Vancouver’s growth rate. So, how is the city keeping up? Mayor Nathan Pachal talks about some new initiatives, including a reimagined community café designed to bring residents together.

Mar 3, 202510 min

Why did this councillor break ranks on housing?

Vancouver’s mayor says the city has built enough supportive housing and that it’s time for other municipalities to step up. But critics argue this move will leave more people on the street. City councillor Lisa Dominato, who voted against the plan despite being in the mayor’s party, explains why.

Feb 28, 202510 min

Vancouver city council passes pause on new supportive housing

Stephen Quinn goes to the Downtown Eastside to speak with residents and business owners about the impact of pausing new supportive housing development and CBC municipal affairs reporter Chad Pawson talks about the discussions at council and how this decision could play in the upcoming by-election.

Feb 27, 202516 min

What will the closure of 3 Metro Vancouver community news outlets mean for local communities?

Burnaby Now, New Westminster Record, and Tri-City News will close due to financial challenges, according to parent company Glacier Media. We hear from a Port Moody resident and a former Coquitlam City Councillor and former journalist on their reactions to the closures.

Feb 26, 202512 min

How do you fix the Downtown Eastside?

A leaked memo from Vancouver mayors office highlights plans to 'revitalize' the Downtown Eastside, including moving Indigenous residents in the community back to their home nations. Stephen Quinn talks to ABC Vancouver councillor Mike Klassen and Green Party councillor Pete Fry about the plans and leaked memo.

Feb 25, 202519 min

Is Vancouver Ready for the Big One?

A 4.7 earthquake rocked Metro Vancouver, sparking questions about the city's preparedness. Gloria Macarenko speaks to SFU’s Brent Ward about what this tremor means for Vancouver’s future.

Feb 24, 202510 min

Is Vancouver’s City Hall Too Connected to the police?

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim’s ABC party has picked the head of the Vancouver Police Union as a candidate in the upcoming city council byelection. Critics say this blurs the line between policing and politics. But how close is too close? Stephen Quinn puts that question to Mayor Sim.

Feb 21, 202515 min

John Rhys-Davies has a laugh you won't soon forget

The Welsh legendary actor speaks with Stephen Quinn.

Feb 20, 202521 min

Why is Vancouver shrinking Its biggest public pool?

The Vancouver Aquatic Centre is set for a major overhaul, but there’s a catch: the proposed redesign shrinks the pool to half its size. Now competitive swimmers are pushing back. Stephen Quinn talks to Vancouver Park Board Chair Laura Christensen to find out more. 

Feb 20, 20257 min

Trying to deepen the available spots for swimming lessons in Metro Vancouver

Burnaby city councillor Daniel Tetrault speaks with Stephen Quinn about the shortage of swim lesson spaces and how different levels of government need to step up to help fund initiatives to fix the issue.

Feb 19, 20259 min

What does Rebecca Bligh's departure mean for the ABC party?

Vancouver City Councillor Rebecca Bligh has been ousted from the ABC party, citing a clash of core values with Mayor Ken Sim. With several ABC officials leaving in recent years, is this part of a larger trend in Vancouver politics? Stephen Quinn talks to Bligh about the fallout, the future, and what this means for the city's leadership.

Feb 18, 202510 min

What can Vancouverites do to take control of their finances?

With the cost of living already sky-high in Vancouver, new U.S. tariffs could push prices even higher. So how might financial planning help families living paycheque to paycheque? Stephen Quinn speaks to Murray Baker from Family Services of Greater Vancouver to talk about the biggest financial challenges facing local families. 

Feb 17, 20257 min

What impact will Vacouver's new $5 million policing plan for the Downdown Eastside have to alleviate crime?

The new plan called "Task Force Barrage" promises to tackle organized crime networks and predatory criminals in the area. Stephen Quinn speaks with two people who run business improvement associations in the area to learn what impact this new policing plan will have in the area.

Feb 14, 202511 min

Should off-leash dogs be allowed on trails at Pacific Spirit Park?

Metro Vancouver is reviewing its dog management plan at Pacific Spirit Regional Park near UBC after a woman was injured while running through the park. Currently 65 per cent of the trails in the park are least-optional. But should off-leash dog access be more restricted?

Feb 13, 202515 min

How New Westminster Plans to Help its Most Vulnerable Residents

New Westminster is taking steps to tackle homelessness, mental health, and addiction with a new crisis response plan. But with limited resources, how much can a city really hope to accomplish?

Feb 12, 20257 min

What happens when neighbourhoods push back against new homes?

New housing projects are sparking debate in Richmond and Port Moody. Supporters say new developments are crucial for boosting housing supply, while critics argue they are moving too fast, raising concerns about safety and density. Stephen Quinn speaks with two guests to find out what’s at stake.

Feb 11, 202515 min

Richmond's controversial supportive housing project

A contentious supportive housing project in Richmond is back on track. The six-story, 90-unit development was paused just before the last provincial election, because of significant community opposition last summer, with around 500 residents protesting and expressing concerns about its location at Cambie and Sexsmith.

Feb 10, 20258 min

What's the story behind the Sen̓áḵw towers?

The towers at the Sen̓áḵw development are taking shape, with rental units expected to be ready by the end of the year. Stephen Quinn explores how the Squamish Nation is reclaiming their history through this transformative project. 

Feb 7, 202512 min

From historic hub to struggling strip: What's needed to transform Granvrille Street?

Granville Street is struggling with vandalism, high vacancies, and public disorder. But the city is hoping to revitalize the district with a new plan. Stephen Quinn talks with Michael Geller to find out if the historic strip can make a comeback.

Feb 6, 20259 min

How mentorship is empowering Black entrepreneurs in Vancouver

Stephen Quinn talks to Tika, a Grammy-nominated artist, and Queen Alexis, founder of a performing arts academy, about how mentorship and entrepreneurship are transforming Vancouver’s cultural scene.

Feb 5, 20258 min

What Are the Invictus Games Bringing to Vancouver?

The 2025 Invictus Games are just around the corner. Host Stephen Quinn chats with Scott Moore, CEO of the Games, about what’s in store as Vancouver and Whistler prepare to welcome over 500 competitors from 23 nations.

Feb 4, 20258 min

What’s the Story Behind "A Night of Obsidian"?

As Black History Month begins, we talk with Natasha Tony, CEO of Elevate Inclusion Strategies, about "A Night of Obsidian." This special event at the Rio Theatre celebrates the achievements of Black filmmakers, musicians, and artists in Vancouver. Natasha explains the inspiration behind the event’s powerful name and why amplifying Black voices is more important than ever.

Feb 3, 20257 min

Why Is Vancouver’s mayor boycotting regional meetings?

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim has made headlines by boycotting Metro Vancouver meetings, calling the regional governance system "broken." But what’s really going on behind the scenes? Host Stephen Quinn dives into the controversy with Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruim.

Jan 31, 20259 min

Could Congestion Pricing Help Fix Vancouver’s Traffic?

New York City’s congestion pricing plan is showing early success, but could something similar work in Metro Vancouver? Transportation economist Robin Lindsey weighs in on how road pricing could ease traffic woes and fund public transit.

Jan 30, 202512 min