

This is Vancouver
CBC
Your connection to the issues and stories shaping life in Metro Vancouver. Hosted by Stephen Quinn, with new episodes every Tuesday and Wednesday, plus a Thursday dive into city politics with Justin McElroy.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 3, 2025 • 8min
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.

Jan 31, 2025 • 10min
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 30, 2025 • 13min
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 29, 2025 • 10min
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 28, 2025 • 11min
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 27, 2025 • 20min
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 24, 2025 • 15min
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 23, 2025 • 11min
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 22, 2025 • 10min
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 21, 2025 • 6min
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.


