Urbanism Vancouver

Uytae Lee, a storytelling expert in urban planning, discusses the importance of effective communication strategies and diverse voices in advocating for inclusive urban environments. They explore the challenges of engaging with differing perspectives in urban planning, measuring impact in content creation, and addressing issues like housing affordability and community development.

Helen Lui interviews Fern Hahn, a transit advocate and urban planning student, who shares experiences that shaped their perspective on public transit. Fern discusses advocating for better transit and their interest in transit network design.Next, Helen speaks with Matthew and Emma from UBC CAPACity, focusing on engaging university students in urban planning discussions. They discuss the club's events, ranging from urban studies info nights to town hall debates with city council candidates. Matthew and Emma emphasize the importance of involving youth in urban planning decisions and fostering inclusivity across different faculties.References: Fern K Hahn: https://fernkhahn.com/UBC CAPACity: https://amscampusbase.ubc.ca/capacity/home/ Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

The conversation continues with Houssam Elokda from Happy Cities, as Helen Lui explores the impact of the built environment on communities, emphasizing the importance of creating livable and sustainable cities. They discuss the subjective nature of happiness and well-being in urban settings, also highlighting the significance of social connections, community, and meaningful interactions in fostering happiness.References:Hey Neighbour Collective Happy Homes project: https://www.heyneighbourcollective.ca/resources/ Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Density is a hotly debated topic in urban centres. Is it good? Is it bad? Does it make us more isolated, more lonely, or can it improve our happiness?Helen Lui speaks with Houssam Elokda, from Happy Cities. Their research explores the connection between urban design and happiness, striving to enhance the quality of life in cities through sustainable long-term happiness. By prioritizing people's experiences and emotions, they aim to implement urban interventions that are not only impactful but also tailored to the unique needs and values of each community.Houssam delves into the significance of studying the relationship between happiness and urban design to determine the crucial elements for thriving in urban environments. An insightful study discussed in the podcast reveals that density does not necessarily correlate with lower happiness or well-being once income is taken into account. The conversation sheds light on how different housing forms like apartments or single-family homes have no significant impact on well-being when income is factored in.References: The World Happiness Report: https://worldhappiness.report/about/Lu’ma housing - Heatherlands project: https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/courier-archive/news/temporary-modular-housing-approved-for-heather-lands-site-3082546#google_vignetteVGH + Happy Cities study: My Wellbeing, My Community: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/65c7e5d8ed8ae44c1709ae60/t/65f9ba97331b333639689619/1710865062869/My-home-my-neighbourhood-wellbeing-study-111723.pdf5 D’s of walkability: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359066510_Rethinking_walkability_and_developing_a_conceptual_definition_of_active_living_environments_to_guide_research_and_practice Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui speaks with Mark Boardman and Alyssa Sacal from Minivillage, a Vancouver-based company fostering social connections within neighbourhoods. Mark discusses transforming neighbours into friends, while Alyssa emphasizes combating loneliness. The conversation explores authentic community bonds, the impact of physical environments on social connections, and practical tips for fostering relationships. Mark and Alyssa advocate for intentional community-building efforts and envision a future with healthier, happier, and more interconnected communities.References:The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and CommunityDunbar's numberRobert Waldinger's Ted TalkWhy Are We So Lonely, by Vox40% of Canadians feel lonely all or some of the timeThe Säg hej! (say hello!) campaign, Luleå, SwedenResearch organizations mentioned during the podcast: Happy Cities, Hey Neighbour Collective, Tamarack Institute, Genwell ProjectNetflix, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui is joined by architects Amit Price Patel and Jill Robertson from DIALOG, to discuss the design of great public spaces. They share insights on the political power of design, the intersection of science and art in shaping communities, and the significance of community engagement in creating inclusive spaces. The conversation emphasizes inclusivity, considering diverse perspectives, and the importance of moving at the speed of trust when engaging with communities. Amit and Jill highlight the impact of inclusive design on community well-being, stressing the role of public spaces in fostering connections and shared experiences. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui is joined by Urban Sketch Artist Nishant Jain, also known as "the Sneaky Artist" to discuss the concept of 'Third Spaces'—the places between home and work where social bonds are forged and community enriched. We explore how these spaces, from parks to cafes, are not just physical locations but also platforms for cultural expression and social interaction. We also discuss the transformation of third spaces and their role in shaping modern urban life. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Reece Martin from the YouTube channel RMTransit joins Helen Lui to discuss the evolving landscape of urban mobility and public transit. Explore the cutting-edge developments and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of our cities. Reece, who grew up in the Lower Mainland, and now a resident of Toronto, shares his expert insights on the challenges urban planners face and the potential transformative impacts of new technologies on public transportation systems.RM Transit: https://www.youtube.com/@RMTransitMovement: https://transitmovement.ca/ Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui explores the critical need for safer, more sustainable urban transportation with Lucy Maloney, a fervent cycling advocate who leads the organization "Love The Lane" and is also a HUB Cycling member. Lucy discusses the ongoing efforts to promote safer streets in Vancouver, addressing the broader challenges of shifting public policy. She highlights the changes in infrastructure that can significantly reduce preventable risks and enhance urban living, and discusses opportunities to encourage more active transportation. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui discusses the interconnectedness of urban development, climate initiatives, and public safety with guest, environmental scientist Rhiannon Fox. Highlighting the benefits of dense, less car-dependent cities, the discussion emphasizes community involvement and personal action as catalysts for change. Rhiannon shares how individual efforts can influence broader societal shifts towards sustainable living and safer, more inclusive urban environments. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver