This is Vancouver

Severe storms are flooding farms, roads, and homes across the Fraser Valley - and not for the first time. We hear from Sumas Prairie residents who lived through the 2021 disaster and are dealing with rising water now. We also ask what governments are doing to reduce future risks. 

Virtually everyone in Metro Vancouver’s large Filipino community wants a cultural centre. The CBC’s Justin McElroy and Johna Baylon joins Stephen Quinn to talk about why the approval of one is proving so contentious, and the politics involved in cultural centres across the region. 

The Broadway Subway Project aims to fix a busy transit corridor - but efforts to build it have created new challenges. Since 2020, businesses and residents have faced noise and disruptions. Now some fear an upcoming roadway closure could make things worse. We hear from people in the community about what daily life is like and what could happen next. 

Aaron Chapman, a historian and author, shares his personal connection to Hastings Racecourse and its cultural significance in Vancouver. He reflects on cherished family memories and the community's loss as racing fades. Chantal Archambault, communications director at the Vancouver Humane Society, discusses alarming animal welfare issues and reveals findings from their report on horse safety and retirement. Together, they explore the impact of funding changes and the urgent need for transparent plans to support both horses and workers in this transition.

In this discussion, Justin McElroy, a CBC municipal affairs reporter, dives into Vancouver's crowded 2026 mayoral race. He highlights the risks of left-wing vote splitting with multiple candidates like Amanda Burroughs, who emphasizes community support in her campaign. McElroy also assesses challenges newcomers face in elections and discusses modern campaign strategies. Additionally, he touches on Ken Sim's re-election prospects and key City Hall votes to watch, offering a lively analysis of the shifting political landscape in Vancouver.

Zameer Karim, CBC associate producer and co-producer of The Pitch: Vancouver Road to the World Cup, shares insights into potential matchups for Canada at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, highlighting teams Canada won't face. Laurence Watt, CBC producer, captures local fan excitement from Vancouver’s diverse communities, including Egypt, Italy, and Croatia. Mike Klassen, Vancouver city councillor, discusses the rising budget of the new amphitheatre project, its funding structure, and how it ties into hosting FIFA Fan Fest.

Vancouver firefighters answered a record 54 overdose calls in one day in November. Stephen Quinn speaks with front-line responders and overdose prevention workers about what’s driving the surge, what’s changing in the drug supply, and what still isn't working. 

Vancouver’s Celebration of Light fireworks festival has been cancelled, and organizers are blaming increased costs and decreased government funding CBC’s Justin McElroy joins Stephen Quinn to do a little fact checking — and to explore the culture behind one of Vancouver’s most infamous nicknames 

Vancouver has passed a budget with a freeze on municipal property taxes - and $50 million for police. Stephen Quinn speaks to Mayor Ken Sim about what the budget really means for life in Vancouver.

Claudia Smith, an Entrepreneurship professor at the University of Victoria, teams up with Cam Bala, a seasoned personal stylist and retail professional. They dive into Aritzia's ambitious move into the former Nordstrom spot, exploring its implications for Vancouver's retail scene. Claudia discusses how Aritzia balances physical and online retail strategies while maintaining an intimate shopping experience. Cam shares insights on Aritzia's cultural significance and the appeal of its stylish quality basics that resonate with local customers.