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This is Vancouver

This is Vancouver

312 episodes — Page 6 of 7

What's missing from Ottawa's TransLink funding?

While a $663 million commitment in capital funding from the federal government to a cash-strapped TransLink will go towards improving existing transit infrastructure, there's still a huge operational deficit within the provider's budget. Executive director of Movement: Metro Vancouver Transit Riders, Denis Agar, explains.

Jan 29, 202510 min

Can TransLink’s funding promise be trusted?

North Vancouver Mayor Linda Buchanan joins Stephen Quinn to discuss TransLink's looming financial crisis and the federal government’s promise of $663 million annually for public transit starting in 2026. But with an election looming, is this funding guarantee just wishful thinking?

Jan 28, 202511 min

What's next for the Downtown Eastside?

Mayor Ken Sim's plan to "revitalize" the Downtown Eastside has sparked controversy, with claims that Vancouver is taking on more than its share of the region's social service needs. But is that really true? Stephen Quinn speaks with provincial and municipal leaders to find out more. 

Jan 27, 202519 min

What Happens When Language Classes for Newcomers Disappear?

The federal government’s funding cuts are set to shut down Vancouver Community College’s LINC program, leaving hundreds of immigrants without critical language and settlement support. Stephen Quinn speaks with two graduates, Goran Jaf Hasan and Galyna Sagan, about how the program helped them integrate into Canadian society—and what its closure means for future newcomers.

Jan 24, 202514 min

What’s the Deal with False Creek South Redevelopment?

Vancouver’s hiring a consulting firm for $4 million to plan False Creek South, but some say city staff could’ve done the job. Former city planner Sandy James shares her take on the cost, the process, and what it means for the neighbourhood.

Jan 23, 202510 min

What happens when Vancouver says no to FIFA?

As Vancouver prepares to host seven FIFA World Cup games in 2026, plans for a training facility at Memorial South Park were suddenly canceled. What led to the city’s decision to relocate to UBC, and what does it mean for Vancouver neighbourhoods? Stephen Quinn speaks with Vancouver Park Board Chair Laura Christensen to unpack the controversy, community pushback, and what’s next for FIFA-related upgrades.

Jan 22, 20259 min

How one artist is using recycled materials to inspire climate action

Tackling climate change with materials typically considered trash. That's the aim of B.C. artist Persimmon Blackbridge with her latest exhibit, Speak No (emergency). Stephen Quinn talks to her about the importance of art in raising awareness and the power of creativity in Vancouver.

Jan 21, 20256 min

Is it time for Vancouver to embrace water meters?

Other cities in Metro Vancouver are already using water meters to conserve water and lower costs, but Vancouver is still holding out. Why is the city lagging behind? And should Vancouver adopt universal water metering? Councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung talks about her motion to study water metering.

Jan 20, 20258 min

How Abbotsford researchers are shaping the futue of sustainable food

The federal government is investing $16.2 million in a bold new initiative: Sustainable Food Systems for Canada. But what does this mean for food security and agrifood innovation? Host Stephen Quinn sits down with Lenore Newman, director of the Food and Agriculture Institute at UFV, to unpack how this project aims to transform the industry.

Jan 17, 20257 min

What Do Two Empty Seats Mean for Vancouver’s City Council?

With two resignations on Vancouver city council, the political landscape is shifting. Could this be an opening for collaboration between the Greens and OneCity, or will Mayor Sim's party seize the moment? Host Stephen Quinn dives into the intrigue with CBC municipal affairs reporter Chad Pawson.

Jan 16, 20259 min

Can Jesper Sorensen Lead the Whitecaps to the Next Level?

With a new coach at the helm, the Vancouver Whitecaps are promising big changes. But what would it mean for the club to make it to the next level? Stephen Quinn dives into the Whitecaps' ambitions with Samuel Rowan, managing editor of The Third Sub blog.

Jan 15, 20259 min

What's going on with the Plaza of Nations as it changes owners?

The ownership of the Plaza of Nations is changing hands and the new owners have some big plans for the spot. Former Vancouver councillor Geoff Meggs says the Plaza of Nations is a special spot on the city's waterfront and is concerned that the new owners will ruin it with over-development.

Jan 14, 20258 min

Would Christy Clark have a chance of winning if she enters the Liberals' leadership contest?

Former B.C. Premier Christy Clark told CBC Radio's The House that she is "seriously thinking about" running to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. For more on Clark's chances of becoming Canada's next Prime Minister, we speak with Kareem Allam, political strategist and formerly a campaign manager in provincial politics for the B.C. Liberals.

Jan 13, 202513 min

Could the Conservatives overturn the Surrey-Guildford election results?

The B.C. Conservatives are challenging the results of the Surrey-Guildford riding, where they narrowly lost by just 22 votes. Leader John Rustad joins Stephen Quinn to discuss allegations of election irregularities and their petition to the Supreme Court.

Jan 10, 202517 min

What’s Next for Vancouver’s Last Expo Lands?

The proposed redevelopment of Northeast False Creek could transform a sea of parking lots into a new neighbourhood with skyscrapers and thousands of homes. But what does this mean for the city’s history and its communities? Stephen Quinn speaks with Djaka Blais of the Hogan's Alley Society and Landon Hoyt of the Hastings Crossing BIA to explore the stakes, tensions, and hopes surrounding this ambitious project.

Jan 9, 202512 min

What’s next for Vancouver’s False Creek?

Big plans are in the works for one of Vancouver’s most debated areas. Concord Pacific has unveiled a plan for Northeast False Creek, proposing 5,000 new homes, 12 towers, and the dismantling of the Georgia and Dunsmuir viaducts. But what does this mean for housing affordability, public spaces, and the future of our city? Stephen Quinn talks with Concord Pacific’s Peter Webb to find out how this project could reshape the city. 

Jan 8, 20259 min

Can Running Be Fun If You Go Slow?

Running doesn’t have to be fast or intimidating. Host Stephen Quinn chats with Sydney Hara, founder of Vancouver’s Slow Girls Run Club, about how her group is redefining the joy of running — at your own pace.

Jan 7, 20256 min

What does Vancouver’s new women’s shelter mean for the Downtown Eastside?

A new temporary overnight women’s shelter has opened in the Downtown Eastside, offering support in one of Vancouver’s most vulnerable communities. Host Stephen Quinn speaks with Union Gospel Mission spokesperson Sarah Chew about the services it provides and the impact it hopes to make.

Jan 6, 20257 min

What's the difference between going dry for January and going sober for life?

Writer Jordan Kawchuk shares his sobriety story with Stephen Quinn, as told in one of The Globe and Mail's "Top 5 Most Read Essays of 2024."

Jan 3, 202510 min

B.C. home flipping tax comes into effect with aim of discouraging speculators

B.C.'s new home flipping tax will make it more expensive for home owners to flip their properties in less than two years. Professor Tom Davidoff from UBC's Sauder School of Business speaks with Stephen with his assessment.

Jan 2, 20259 min

North or south, people in B.C. jump in for polar bear swim no matter how cold

Vancouver's Lisa Pantages and Prince George's Dave Horton speak with Stephen Quinn about what makes the frozen dip each so alluring and enduring.

Dec 31, 202412 min

Remembering artist and advocate Joe Average

Vancouver artist, AIDS and 2SLGBTQ+ advocate Joe Average died on Christmas Day at the age of 67. We speak with Lisa Martella, the executive director of A Loving Spoonful, a charity that Joe frequented. A Loving Spoonful provides meals for people living with HIV and AIDS.

Dec 30, 20247 min

How are the Vancouver film and music industries closing off 2024?

We speak with Omari Newton, head of the acting department at Vancouver Film School, about films and television shows now being set - not just shot - in Vancouver. We also speak with Petunia from the Vancouver band Petunia and the Vipers about their new album.

Dec 27, 202414 min

What Is the Sandwich Generation, and How Does It Cope at Christmas?

Balancing work, family, and caregiving is hard enough — but add the chaos of the holidays, and it’s a whole new challenge. Stephen Quinn talks with three Lower Mainland caregivers juggling kids, aging parents, and everything in between. They share their struggles, joys, and tips for surviving at this time of year. 

Dec 23, 202414 min

Who will buy the Vancouver Whitecaps?

Former Vancouver Whitecaps commentator Peter Schaad talks to Stephen Quinn about the future of the team after ownership announced the Whitecaps are up for sale.

Dec 20, 202410 min

How are suspected bot accounts amplifying misinformation about Canadian Sikhs in Surrey?

A CBC investigation has uncovered growing concerns about the role of online 'bots' in escalating tensions between Sikhs and Hindus in Canada. We get some local reaction to this story from Satwinder Bains, the director of the South Asian Studies Institute at the University of the Fraser Valley. 

Dec 19, 20249 min

Why are Metro Vancouver communities so vulnerable to landslides, and what can they do to prepare?

After a devastating landslide swept through Lions Bay, the community is grappling with loss and recovery. Gloria Macarenko looks at why B.C. is so vulnerable to these natural disasters — and how communities can better prepare.

Dec 18, 202416 min

What’s Next for a 115-Year-Old Vancouver Landmark?

The former Dunsmuir Hotel in downtown Vancouver has stood for 115 years, but now it’s at risk of collapse. Gloira Macarenko speaks with local civic historian John Atkin to uncover the building’s history, its significance, and what could come next for the site.

Dec 17, 20248 min

Can new incentives help revive Vancouver's film industry?

With new tax incentives announced for B.C.'s film and TV industry, is Vancouver ready to reclaim its spotlight? From international competition to streaming cutbacks, we explore whether these changes are enough to revive the industry—and what more needs to happen.

Dec 16, 202410 min

What are community theatres in Vancouver working on this holiday season?

The White Rock Players' Club are celebrating 80 years this season.Their version of Cinderella runs now through December 29th. And the Deep Cove Stage Society is marking 50 years of performances.Their panto this year is also Cinderella, they are already sold out.

Dec 13, 20248 min

Should Vancouver Become a Bitcoin-Friendly City?

Vancouver’s mayor wants the city to embrace bitcoin to attract tech and diversify the city's revenue streams. But is the idea practical? What would it even entail? Stephen Quinn dives into those questions with UBC blockchain expert Victoria Lemieux, digital strategist Jesse McKee and OneCity executive director Giovanna Orecchio.

Dec 12, 202417 min

How can knot theory help you untangle your Christmas lights?

Lisa Christiansen gets some help from Liam Watson, Associate Professor of Mathematics at UBC who studies knot theory to untangle her Christmas lights. 

Dec 10, 20247 min

What happened during Taylor Swift’s final Eras Tour shows?

Taylor Swift wrapped up her record-breaking Eras Tour in Vancouver, delivering more than just unforgettable performances. From a fan-led food bank campaign to a heartwarming act of kindness that got one fan to the show, Stephen Quinn dives into the stories that made the finale truly memorable.

Dec 9, 20247 min

How safe are Vancouver streets?

Violent incidents in downtown Vancouver are making headlines: a fatal police shooting, random stranger attacks, and rising concerns from locals. So, how safe are the streets, really? Stephen Quinn speaks to former police chief Kash Heed and a downtown business owner about how these events are shaping the community.

Dec 5, 202412 min

What went wrong with Vancouver’s $600M Art Gallery?

The Vancouver Art Gallery’s new building project has hit another snag: the design has been scrapped and the architects behind it are out. How did we get here? And what happens to the millions of dollars spent on the project? Stephen Quinn digs into the issue with Vancouver City Councillor Sarah Kirby-Young and art collector Bob Rennie.

Dec 4, 202417 min

What’s behind the rise in mountain biking injuries?

Mountain biking is thrilling – but it’s also the leading cause of spinal cord injuries in the province, surpassing other high-risk sports like hockey and skiing. Dr. Brian Kwon, a spinal surgeon and researcher, breaks down the risks, how injuries happen, and what can be done to make the sport safer.

Dec 3, 20249 min

What does Trump’s tariff threat mean for Vancouver’s border security?

Vancouver faces the potential impact of U.S. President Trump’s tariff threat unless Canada takes action on border security. Stephen breaks down local concerns about drug trafficking and undocumented migrants, with insights from Delta Mayor George Harvie and former B.C. Premier Ujjal Dosanjh.

Dec 2, 202414 min

Craft sellers in Vancouver rely on Canada Post to sell their products. How are they coping during the strike?

After two weeks, the strike by Canada Post workers is show no signs of letting up.While the strike is disrupting business across the country- it's hitting small, online retailers particulary hard. Most of them rely on Canada Post to get their goods to their customers.We speak with three local online craft sellers to hear how they are working around the strike.

Nov 29, 202414 min

How can you avoid Taylor Swift ticket fraud?

We're just a week away from the first of three Taylor Swift concerts, and ticket scams are on the rise. We get advice from the Vancouver Police department on how to avoid fraud and keep your purchases safe.

Nov 28, 20248 min

How did a Surrey man end up on Canada's 'no-fly' list?

Two pro-Khalistan activists. including one from Surrey, are taking their fight to get off Canada's no-fly list to the country's top court. The CBC's Jason Proctor joins us on the podcast to explain how a case that's moved through the courts for the past six years is now taking on a new signifcance.

Nov 27, 202411 min

Who should get the road -- cyclists or drivers?

A plan to replace a car lane with bike lanes on Mountain Highway has sparked heated debate in North Vancouver. Former councillor Mathew Bond weighs in on why the council rejected the proposal and what it reveals about the city’s approach to transportation.

Nov 26, 202410 min

What happens when neighbourhoods say no to more housing density?

Surrey council recently voted down a 58-unit townhouse proposal for a single-family home neighbourhood in Fleetwood after vocal opposition from residents. So what does this mean for housing supply in a growing city? We break down the debate over density, neighbourhood character, and the future of housing.

Nov 25, 202411 min

What’s the real cost of scrapping Vancouver’s Park Board?

A new report suggests Vancouver could save $7 million a year and add permanent parkland by dissolving its Park Board. But is getting more efficient worth losing an extra layer of oversight? Stephen Quinn hears from Jerry Fast, president of the Kitsilano Community Centre Association, who’s fighting to keep it.

Nov 22, 202410 min

Is the City Doing Enough to Tackle Hastings Street Crime?

For years, Hastings and Main has been a hub for stolen items sold in plain sight. Now, the city says it’s cracking down. Councillor Brian Montague explains why it’s time for action.

Nov 21, 202410 min

Can the Wicked Movie Live Up to the Musical?

After two decades of Broadway success, the film adaptation of Wicked finally hits the big screen. We talk with two Vancouver superfans, Mela Pietropaolo and Alex MacIsaac, about what makes this story resonate two decades after its Broadway debut.

Nov 20, 202410 min

How will B.C.'s new government confront the toxic drug crisis?

B.C. has a new cabinet, but will the shake-up help tackle the toxic drug crisis? Dr. Ryan Herriot weighs in on the changes, while Chloe Goodison gives us a preview of a Science World panel focused on combating misinformation and saving lives.

Nov 19, 202415 min

"Commerce kidnapped" -- How Vancouver businesses are coping with the Canada Post strike

When the mail stops moving, small businesses have to scramble. In this episode, Stephen unpacks the Canada Post strike and its ripple effects on Vancouver business owners like Audrey Wong of Living Lotus Chocolate and Steven Kieboom of Local Boom Gift Shop. From hustling to meet customer demands to rethinking shipping altogether, they share how they’ve been riding out the disruption.

Nov 18, 202410 min

Swiftie Scammers -- How hackers stole a pair of Eras Tour tickets

Excitement for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has turned into heartbreak for sisters Lindsay Lemire and Amber Gerrits. Hackers have stolen their tickets from their Ticketmaster accounts, leaving them in limbo. We chat with them about what happened and explore how ticket fraud is hitting Swifties.

Nov 15, 20249 min

What’s next for Vancouver’s Broadway Plan and Langara College?

Vancouver’s Broadway Plan is stirring debate, with high-rise proposals raising concerns among local renters. Grant Roberts shares his perspective on what these changes could mean for the community. Plus, Langara College is facing a steep drop in international student enrolment, with potential impacts on jobs and course offerings. Pauline Greaves from the Langara Faculty Association weighs in.

Nov 14, 202419 min

How will B.C. remember John Horgan, and what will it take for Vancouver to meet its housing targets?

Former B.C. Premier John Horgan has passed away. He served as the 36th premier of British Columbia from 2017 to 2022, and left an indelible mark on friends, coworkers, and family. We talk about his legacy with two of his close allies and friends, Moe Sihota and Raj Chouhan. Plus, Vancouver is falling short on its provincial housing targets. Councillor Peter Meiszner discusses the challenges and what lies ahead for the city’s five-year goal.

Nov 13, 202417 min