Rachel Thexton Connects

What does it mean when food isn't just fuel — it's governance, identity, and survival?In this episode, Rachel sits down with Chief Andrew George — Hereditary Wing Chief of the Wet'suwet'en Bear Clan, BC's first Indigenous Red Seal certified chef, Apprentice Advisor at SkilledTradesBC, and Director at Dan's Legacy Foundation — for a conversation that will change how you see food, culture, and reconciliation in Canada.Chief Andrew takes us from growing up off-reserve in the Bulkley Valley, following salmon cycles, and cooking over an open fire in the mountains — all the way to representing Indigenous cuisine at the 1992 World Culinary Olympics, Expo 86, the 2010 Winter Olympics, and the FIFA World Cup. His mother's salmon bannock, first created at Expo 86, is making a comeback on the world stage.But this episode goes far deeper than food. Chief Andrew unpacks how Indigenous food systems weren't simply lost — they were deliberately destroyed. From fishing rocks blown up in the Hagelget Canyon to buffalo wiped out on the prairies, he connects this history directly to why Indigenous households in BC today experience food insecurity at 2 to 6 times the rate of non-Indigenous households.From Dan's Legacy Foundation's trauma-informed culinary training in New Westminster, to Tea Creek's food sovereignty model in Northern BC — Chief Andrew shows us what real reconciliation looks like: not in a corporate boardroom, but sitting around a fire with a cup of tea.This episode is essential listening for anyone who cares about food justice, Indigenous rights, and the future of our communities.ABOUT DAN'S LEGACY FOUNDATIONDan's Legacy provides no-cost trauma-informed counselling and wrap-around support programs for at-risk youth, including culinary job-skills training through Dan's Diner in New Westminster.🔗 Website: https://danslegacy.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danslegacybc/👍 Facebook: https://facebook.com/danslegacy🐦 Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/DansLegacyBC0:00 Introduction & land acknowledgement2:23 Chief Andrew's journey into professional cooking3:15 Growing up off reserve in the Bulkley Valley4:33 The Salmon People: Wet'suwet'en identity & traditions6:34 The Feast Hall & Potlatch: Food as governance7:26 The Grease Trails: A kinship economy9:43 How cooking found him: An open fire in the mountains16:33 His grandfather & reconciliation19:32 Indigenous cuisine on the world stage: Culinary Olympics, Expo 86, FIFA20:28 The deliberate decimation of Indigenous food systems22:14 The food insecurity crisis: 2–6× higher for Indigenous households31:08 Culinary Diplomacy Tour & the DC Central Kitchen model34:13 Dan's Legacy Foundation: Therapy, cooking & changing lives36:09 Tea Creek: Food sovereignty & trades training38:02 Burn the boardroom table: Reconciliation around the fire39:08 The elder's tea wisdom56:47 Treat people how you want to be treated57:41 Food as shared culture: Pow Wows, Potlatches & giving58:57 Where to find Indigenous food in Greater Vancouver1:01:00 Closing: Salmon Bannock from Expo 86 to the FIFA World Cup.

Street Doctor Jill (Dr. Jill Wiwcharuk) is an addiction medicine physician, emergency room doctor, and one of Canada’s most important voices on the substance use public health crisis. In this episode of the Rachel Thexton Connects Podcast, Dr. Jill breaks down evidence-based treatment, compassionate care, the contaminated street supply, stigma in healthcare, and why policy makers need more courage to act on the research.🔔 Subscribe for honest, compassionate conversations on substance use, mental health, and public health in Canada.📲 Follow Dr. Jill Wiwcharuk: Instagram & Facebook: @streetdrjill 📲 Follow Rachel Thexton Connects:  @rachelthextonconnects  [https://www.instagram.com/rachelthextonconnects/?hl=enTOPICS COVERED SECTION• How Dr. Jill went from violin & Spanish to street medicine• Why all Canadian doctors should have substance use disorder training• Barriers to care for unhoused & marginalized communities• How stigma in clinics, pharmacies & the ER costs lives• Why she started @streetdrjill on Instagram & Facebook• Evidence-based care strategies and why they save millions of dollars• Prescription medications contaminating Canada’s unregulated street supply• Why emergency response medications don’t always work — and why that matters• The reality of withdrawal — why “just stopping” isn’t that simple• Recovery: why there’s no one-size-fits-all approach• What policy makers must do to end the public health emergency• Indigenous communities and the preventable deaths crisis in BC#AddictionMedicine #SubstanceUseDisorder #PublicHealth #StreetDoctorJill #CanadaHealthCrisis #RecoveryIsPossible #MentalHealth #EvidenceBasedCare #CompassionateCare #BCHealthCrisis #RachelThextonConnects #DrJillWiwcharuk 0:00 Introduction — Meet Street Doctor Jill1:15 Dr. Jill’s Journey: From Violin & India to Medicine3:30 Emergency Medicine + Addiction — More Than One Label4:15 Should All Canadian Doctors Have Substance Use Training?7:00 Barriers to Care: Homelessness, Stigma & Marginalized Communities8:30 How Stigma in Healthcare Costs Lives13:20 The Numbers: 21% of Canadians Will Face Substance Use Disorder14:00 Sadness & Rage: Rolling Back Public Health Progress17:30 Safe Supply, the Diversion Debate & Political Pressure18:00 Why Dr. Jill Started @streetdrjill on Social Media22:30 Evidence-Based Care: What It Actually Means26:35 The Financial Case: Why Preventive Care Saves Millions27:00 Prescription Medications Contaminating the Unregulated Supply29:30 Why Emergency Response Medications Sometimes Fall Short33:45 Understanding Withdrawal — It’s Not Just Stopping36:45 Medications That Support Recovery & Stability38:10 Recovery Looks Different for Everyone41:40 What Policy Makers Must Do to End the Crisis43:35 Indigenous Communities & Preventable Deaths in BC45:25 Closing Thoughts & Where to Follow Dr. Jill

Rachel Thexton sits down with Howard Chai, one of British Columbia's most respected real estate journalists, to talk about what it's like covering Vancouver's number one news beat. Howard shares the story behind his transition from computer science at SFU to journalism — eventually landing at Storeys.com, where he spent three years establishing himself as a go-to voice on BC's housing market. When Storeys paused operations, he created Substack real estate content, and media outlets started calling. Howard now writes for The Globe and Mail, RENX, Western Investor, The Tyee, and Storeys.com (now under Site Media).The discussion digs into the state of BC's real estate market — from the downturn in pre-sale developments and declining rental prices, to developer insolvencies and the hidden costs that drive up housing prices. Howard offers his perspective on housing affordability for professional families, the "missing middle," and whether the market may be approaching a turning point. Howard also shares what grabs his attention in a story pitch, how he stays objective on divisive housing topics, the value of exclusives, and his competitive edge as a breaking-news reporter.This episode is a must-listen for real estate developers, realtors, PR and communications professionals, and anyone following the BC housing market.The Worst Market They've Ever Seen?Will Families Ever Afford a Home in Vancouver?0:00 — Intro: Welcome to Rachel Thexton Connects0:22 — Meet Howard Chai, Freelance Real Estate Journalist1:16 — What Happened When Storeys.com Shut Down3:04 — Starting a Substack & Staying in Journalism4:40 — How Substack Works for Independent Journalists5:34 — Why Newsletters Are the Future of Digital Media6:02 — Competitors Came Calling: Landing Freelance Work7:25 — Real Estate: BC's Most Clicked News Beat7:57 — Howard's Background: From Computer Science to Journalism9:25 — Covering Vancouver's COVID Era at Daily Hive 60410:03 — Joining Storeys & Covering BC's Real Estate Market11:01 — Why Housing Affordability Matters So Much12:53 — The Market Shift: From Sellouts to Slowdowns13:10 — "The Worst Market They've Ever Seen"14:00 — Are We Near Rock Bottom? Signs of a Turning Point14:30 — How Rental Prices Have Dropped in Vancouver14:56 — Staying Objective on Divisive Housing Topics16:46 — How Howard Keeps Reporting Balanced & Fact-Based17:43 — What Grabs a Journalist's Attention in a Pitch18:56 — Being Selective: Competing with CBC & Bigger Outlets20:11 — The Value of Exclusives in Real Estate Reporting22:02 — Writing for Globe and Mail, RENX, Tyee & Storeys22:46 — The Globe and Mail Feature: A Career Milestone24:00 — Biggest Challenges Covering the Real Estate Beat25:58 — What Howard Loves Most About the Job27:00 — The Competitive Drive Behind Breaking News27:42 — Will Families Ever Afford a Home in Vancouver?28:24 — Howard's Take: Townhouses as the Realistic Path29:30 — The Hidden Costs Developers Pay (CACs & Municipal Fees)31:00 — Future Goals: Maclean's, Walrus & Long-Form Features32:51 — Howard's Substack & Inspiring Self-Publication33:00 — Pet Peeves from PR Pitches & Email Threads34:20 — Why Howard Always Responds to Pitches (Even to Say No)35:47 — Closing: Howard Chai's Impact on BC Real Estate Journalism36:24 — Be Kind, Truly Connect — Outro

In this raw and timely episode of Rachel Thexton Connects, Rachel sits down with Sarah Blyth, the Executive Director of the Overdose Prevention Society (OPS). Three years after first joining Rachel on the podcast, Sarah returns to discuss why the overdose crisis remains a dire health emergency despite falling out of the media spotlight. Sarah also details the variety of vital services that OPS provides to one of Vancouver's most vulnerable communities. Sarah pulls back the curtain on the daily operations at OPS—a site that sees up to 600 visits a day. She debunks myths about harm reduction, explains the shift from fentanyl to even more dangerous toxic substances, and shares deeply personal experiences that fuel her advocacy.In this episode, we cover:The Toxic Supply: Why the current unregulated supply is taking the lives of 225,000+ British Columbians. More Than Harm Reduction: How OPS provides food, clothing, housing support, and recovery meetings. The Human Cost: The over-representation of Indigenous peoples in toxic drug overdoses. A Legacy of Compassion: Why Vancouver must choose empathy on the world stage (FIFA 2026). How you can support OPS:Sarah mentions that OPS is always in need of blankets and clothing for their overnight shelter. Visit vancityops.com to learn more.0:00 - Introduction: The Rachel Thexton Connects Podcast 1:10 - The Magnitude of the Crisis: 225,000+ at Risk 3:10 - Catching up with Sarah Blyth (3 Years Later) 4:40 - Frontline Realities: 600 Visits a Day at OPS 6:15 - The Changing Supply: From Fentanyl to "Tranq" 8:40 - Accountability in Drug Testing & "Green" Drugs 10:50 - More Than a Site: Recovery Navigators & Basic Needs 13:10 - The Dimming Spotlight: Why We Can't Ignore the Emergency 15:30 - Politics vs. People: The Funding & Advocacy Gap 18:10 - The Harm of Exploitative Filming in the DTES 21:30 - The Power of Lived Experience & Empathy 23:45 - On-Demand Recovery: How the Process Actually Works 26:30 - How to Support OPS: Blankets & Compassion 28:40 - Vancouver’s Legacy: FIFA 2026 & Global Perception 30:30 - Closing: Walking the Talk with Sarah Blyth.

In this episode of Rachel Thexton Connects, I am joined by Amanda Sayfy, the Executive Director of Dress for Success Vancouver, the oldest affiliate of the global organization.We dive deep into the realities of women in Vancouver today, discussing how the organization has evolved from its grassroots origins in a church basement to a multi-faceted support system. Amanda shares startling data on the intersecting barriers women face, including the cost-of-living crisis, the impacts of shifting immigration policies, and the "national epidemic" of gender-based violence declared in 2025.https://dfsvancouver.ca/https://thextonpr.com/Amanda Sayfy is a strategic leader with over 20 years of experience in resource development and advocacy. As the Executive Director of Dress for Success Vancouver, she focuses on creating equity and opportunity for those experiencing intersecting barriersLinkedIn: Amanda SayfyTimestamp Chapter 00:00,Intro The Reality of the Living Wage,Amanda discusses the gap between Vancouver’s living wage ($28/hr) and the reality for clients making less than $30k/year.01:12,Introduction: Amanda Sayfy,Rachel welcomes Amanda Sayfy and introduces the mission of Dress for Success Vancouver.02:19,A Calling to Advocacy,Amanda shares her 20-year journey in the non-profit sector and what led her to this work.06:43,Beyond the Suit: DFS Origins,The grassroots history of the Vancouver affiliate and how its services have evolved.08:49,Programs for Empowerment,"Exploring the ""Working Women’s Group,"" mentorship, and employment readiness workshops."11:01,Diversity & Intersecting Barriers,"A look at the demographics served, including newcomers, BIPOC individuals, and survivors of violence."16:13,The Link to Gender-Based Violence,How financial independence serves as a critical—yet complex—pathway to safety.21:01,Shifting Trends in 2026,Analyzing why demand for peer support is rising while dressing services requests have shifted.22:19,The BC Labor Market & AI,The impact of infrastructure-heavy job growth and the threat of AI on entry-level roles.26:54,The Pulse of Philanthropy,How global economic events affect donor feelings and the importance of human storytelling.29:03,Personal Motivation,Amanda shares her family’s history as displaced persons and her own lived experience.31:09,How to Support: The Best Ways,"Specific needs for donations (blazers, handbags, plus sizes) and volunteer opportunities."33:57,The Future: Building Social Capital,"Amanda’s vision for creating ""champions"" and deeper connections for the women of Vancouver."Dress for Success Vancouver, Amanda Sayfy, Rachel Thexton Connects, Living Wage Vancouver, Gender-Based Violence Support, Women’s Employment BC, Non-profit Leadership, Social Capital, Newcomer Support Vancouver.

Is corporate media abandoning your community? 📢 Journalism is undergoing a massive shift, and Freshet News is at the forefront of the movement.Discover how veteran journalists are fighting back against corporate media closures. Janice Cleugh joins Rachel Thexton to discuss the "revival" of local news through the journalist-owned co-op, Freshet News."We could not believe that they were closing three major urban outlets in the middle of a federal election."In this episode, we sit down with Janice Cleugh, a 35-year veteran journalist and co-founder of Freshet News. After the sudden closure of several Tri-City and Burnaby publications by Glacier Media, Janice and three colleagues took a "superhero" leap to revive local news as a worker-owned cooperative.Visit and support freshetnews.ca for local news BC.Key Takeaways from this Episode:The News Co-Op Model: Learn how Freshet News operates as a non-profit, worker-owned collective to remain independent and impartial.Community Demand: Why local readers are hungry for "hyper-local" reporting on school boards, city halls, and local arts.The Maverick Mindset: How these journalists transformed from employees to business owners, publishers, and distributors overnight.The Future of Journalism: Janice shares her "bold prediction" for the Fraser River communities and why trust is the secret weapon for modern media.0:00 Intro: The Value of Community Journalism1:54 The Crisis: Closing Major Outlets During an Election3:15 What the Community Actually Wants in a Newspaper5:50 Janice Cleugh’s Journey: From England to BC7:52 Scaling Up: From Monthly to Weekly Print Editions10:00 The "Maverick" Story: Why We Created Our Own Jobs12:50 Disrupting the Corporate Media Landscape15:00 How a Worker-Owned Co-Op Actually Functions20:18 The Daily Mission: Fairness, Accuracy, and Truth21:14 Why We Do This as VolunteersBC News 2026 Vancouver Media Co-opBurnaby Local Journalism

What does it truly mean to forgive when the systems meant to protect you have failed? In this powerful episode, I sit down with national bestselling author and award-winning journalist Angela Sterritt (Gitxsan Nation) to discuss her groundbreaking book, Unbroken: My Fight for Survival, Hope, and Justice for Indigenous Women and Girls.Angela shares her "beautiful journey" from the streets to the newsroom, redefining forgiveness as a personal act of "letting go" rather than letting abusers off the hook. We dive deep into the responsibility of being a "disruptive professional," the urgent need for Indigenous language in schools, and the upcoming themes of her second book, Breakable, which explores healthy masculinity and breaking generational cycles.Whether you are a student, a creator, or an advocate, this conversation offers a masterclass in using your voice—and your pen—as an agent of change.In this episode, we discuss:The difference between forgiveness and accountability.Angela’s cultural heritage: The "House of the Big Wings" and matrilineal responsibility.Why Indigenous journalists are essential to challenging colonial lenses in media.The crisis of isolation among men and the path to "sacred manhood".How to regulate your nervous system to move from trauma into imagination.Episode Chapters00:00 – Introduction: Rachel Texon welcomes Angela Sterritt.01:03 – The Difference Between Forgiveness and Accountability.03:10 – Cultural Identity: The Gitxsan Nation and the "House of Big Wings".04:00 – The Responsibility of Disrupting and Dismantling Colonial Systems.06:54 – Navigating the "Sidebar": The Reality for Indigenous Professionals.08:13 – Being a "Disruptive Professional" and the Need for Proxies.11:15 – Part Memoir, Part Investigation: The Structure of "Unbroken".12:28 – The Driving Force: Why Angela Blended Her Story with the MMIWG Crisis.17:02 – Breaking Journalistic Rules: Including "Lived Experience" as Expertise.20:05 – First Look at "Breakable": Investigating Masculinity and Patriarchy.23:01 – How New is Patriarchy? Looking at 14,000 Years of Indigenous History.28:00 – The Silent Crisis: Loneliness and Overdose Statistics Among Men.31:19 – Creating Brotherhoods: The Need for Safe Spaces for Men to Emote.35:15 – Indigenous Storytelling vs. the "Non-Indigenous Anthropologist" Lens.40:42 – Reclaiming Language: The Case for Indigenous Languages in Schools.46:53 – The Pen as a Counselor: Writing as an Agent of Change.54:55 – Nervous System Regulation and the Highest Form of Love.01:03:00 – Final Thoughts: Jimi Hendrix and the Power of Love.Support the Guest:https://angelasterritt.com/📖 Get the book "Unbroken": https://greystonebooks.com/products/unbroken🌐 Follow Angela Sterritt: https://www.instagram.com/angela_sterritt/Connect with the Show:https://www.instagram.com/rachelthextonconnects/https://thextonpr.com/#AngelaSterritt #IndigenousVoices #Unbroken #Journalism #Healing #Masculinity #SocialJustice #Podcast

Why is it so easy to start drinking and so hard to stop? In this episode of Rachel Thexton Connects, I sit down with William Porter, lawyer and author of the bestselling book “Alcohol Explained,” to explore how alcohol really impacts anxiety, sleep, mental health, and addiction recovery.​William explains how alcohol, a chemical sedative, triggers an equal and opposite reaction of anxiety in the brain, and why so many people feel worse over time even though they drink “to relax.” We unpack why a few drinks may help you fall asleep but lead to poor‑quality rest, 3 a.m. wake‑ups, and next‑day exhaustion.​We also dig into how the subconscious mind links alcohol to relief, quietly building automatic cravings and dependence. If you’re sober‑curious, in recovery, or simply questioning your relationship with drinking, this conversation offers clear, compassionate, science‑based insight.​Key topics covered:​The Homeostasis Trap: how your brain counters alcohol with stimulants like cortisol and adrenaline.​The Sleep Myth: why alcohol‑induced unconsciousness is not restorative sleep.​The Subconscious Link: how your brain “learns” to crave the next drink to fix the anxiety the last drink caused.​Hydration & Salt: why chugging water before bed does not undo the effects of alcohol.​Fading Effect Bias: why we remember the “fun” but forget the hangovers and anxiety.​About William Porter – Alcohol Explained:​Author of “Alcohol Explained” Known for breaking down alcohol, dependence, and recovery in simple, practical language.​Website: alcoholexplained.comBook: “Alcohol Explained” (search “Alcohol Explained William Porter” on your favourite bookstore).​Listen if you’re interested in:​Alcohol and anxietyAlcohol and sleep problems / insomniaAlcohol use disorder and addiction recoverySobriety, alcohol‑free living, and sober‑curious journeysMental health, stress, and drinking habits​Support the podcast:If you found this episode helpful, please Like, Subscribe, leave a comment with your biggest takeaway, and share it with someone who might be questioning their relationship with alcohol.​#AlcoholExplained #WilliamPorter #AlcoholAndAnxiety #AlcoholAndSleep #QuitDrinking #Sobriety #SoberCurious #AlcoholAddiction #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #RachelThextonConnects​william porter​alcohol explainedalcohol explained podcastalcohol explained william porteralcohol and anxietyalcohol and sleepalcohol and depressionalcohol and mental healthalcohol use disorderalcohol addiction recoveryquit drinkinghow to stop drinkingsobrietyalcohol‑free livingsober curioussober podcastaddiction recovery podcastanxiety and drinkingsleep and alcoholrachel thexton connects

We dive deep into the stories, perspectives, and voices that matter. Whether you're looking for insightful interviews or a fresh take on current trends, this is the place for meaningful connection.Don’t miss an episode: ✨ Watch now to stay informed and inspired. 🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to join our growing community!

Venezuela is more than just the headlines." To launch our new season, I am privileged to welcome Meriely Arias to the podcast. While the capture of Nicolas Maduro has the world talking, Meriely born in Puerto Cabello, joins me to share the story of a people who remain joyful and resilient despite decades of turmoil.From the "production line" of the traditional Christmas Hallaca to the struggle of families sending money home, Meriely gives us an intimate look at the Venezuelan experience. We also talk about her journey to Canada, the vibrant Venezuelan community right here in British Columbia, and how we can support local businesses—from Port Moody's hidden gems to the best tequeños in the Lower Mainland.https://vcsbc.ca/en/donate/https://www.instagram.com/vcsbc_/

Vancouver City Councillor Rebecca Bligh joins Rachel to discuss her recent announcement that she is running for Mayor. Rebecca shares the personal journey that shapes her political vision, from immigrating from New Zealand to her experiences as a young single mom at 21. She discusses the need for "calm, competent, collaborative" leadership to overcome division at City Hall.

It's not "housing first," it's "housing with the proper resources". This teaser delves into why access to addictions and mental health counseling is critical for a housing strategy to succeed, and what British Columbia can learn from other regions that are getting it right.

A Discussion about Involuntary Treatment in British Columbia- Guy Felicella speaks from experience and support expertise.International Speaker, Advocate, and Consultant, Guy Felicella joins me to discuss BC's recent announcement around involuntary treatment and how to best support those living on Vancouver streets. Guy's valuable expertise comes from 30 years of lived experience, from working within the support services field, and from helping families with a loved one who is struggling with substance use dependency. Go listen to the prevoius episode with to know more about his story.https://youtu.be/9lMWSfnxPnw?si=9NSZZ1p9tsmL7I5h

In this episode, Rachel sits down with the incredibly talented pastry chef and owner of Mann & Co Bake Shop Surrey BC, Jujhar Mann. From his early days watching "Cake Boss" to becoming a Netflix baking champion on "Is It Cake," Jujhar shares his inspiring journey of overcoming cultural expectations and pursuing his passion. He opens up about the challenges he faced, the unwavering support from his family, and the moments that motivated him to prove doubters wrong. Jujhar also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the pressures of competing on television and offers valuable advice for anyone daring to follow their dreams. https://mannandcobakeshop.com/https://www.gnfb. https://makeawish.ca/https://discoversurreybc.com/surrey-signature-experiences/

What motivates a Netflix baking champion after the competition is over?In this sneak peek of the next Rachel Thexton Connects episode, Netflix cake contest winner Jujhar Mann reveals what truly drives him. For him, the ultimate reward is simply "putting a smile on one's face.Full episode coming soon.

My uneasy stomach, and what I know to be true about substance use and mental health, led me to talk about the BC Premier's recent announcement that beds are being allocated for involuntary treatment in BC. I feel that it's wrong for many reasons, but mostly, I feel like this has more to do with the public's discomfort with seeing people unwell and doing drugs on Vancouver streets, than on truly supporting those who will be "helped" against their will.

Are you desperate to support your child's wellbeing as everything around us is after their attention and we are facing a mental health crisis? Dr. Vanessa Lapointe provides incredible insight and advice, empowering you as a loving parent.Psychologist, Parenting Educator, Author, and International Speaker, Dr. Vanessa Lapointe joins me to discuss children, families, challenges we face in 2025, and where we may consider focusing to improve the health and happiness of our children, and ourselves as parents!https://tinyurl.com/24phrrr3 (Click tickets movie Seen) https://drvanessalapointe.com/https://thextonpr.com/

As host of the podcast, Rachel Thexton shares more about herself, speaking to a topic that is rarely discussed publicly- faith.

What kinds of discussions and content do I discuss with guests on the podcast? What types of guests join me for meaningful conversations? We designed the podcast with heart and purpose, and you will feel this as you listen to every episode.

Can two people with opposing views on divisive issues have a fair and respectful discussion? This episode highlights that it's essential to discuss difficult topics with respect, even when we disagree. In the final episode of season #4, I'm joined by longtime VancouverSun Journalist Pete McMartin, whose recent opinion column sparkedintense debate. We discuss Pete’s journey into journalism and his recentopinion piece, which brought up topics such as Vancouver’s Downtown East Side community, social services, substance use, homelessness, and expressing one’s opinion on challenging topics.  What are your thoughts on these issues? We invite you tojoin this important dialogue and share your perspectives respectfully. I wantto hear from you!https://vancouversun.com/opinion/columnists/the-law-protects-the-rights-of-the-most-vulnerable-among-us-to-live-in-filth-and-despair

Rachel Thexton chats with Chris Campbell, a journalist with over three decades of community news experience. Currently leading The Surrey Citizen, a new digital news publication in BC's fastest-growing city, Chris discusses his journalism career and shares personal insights into the world of community news. https://www.alsbc.ca/https://www.dsrf.org/https://saveourlocalnews.ca/Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.Proudly Canadian.

At 14, Randy Taylor was homeless. Today, he’s helping others overcome trauma, addiction, and anxiety—not by revisiting pain, but by building something new. In this deeply personal episode, Randy shares the moment a single sentence from a guidance counselor changed everything, and why it’s time we rethink therapy.https://freefromtherapy.com/https://thextonpr.com/

Kareem Allan has led successful political campaigns, including the campaign for the current Mayor of Vancouver, Ken Sim. We learn more about who Kareem is, outside of politics, and what his hopes are for the direction of Vancouver. https://www.vancityops.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareem-allamhttps://thextonpr.com/Co-produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo

In this powerful episode, Vancouver City Councillor Pete Fry joins me for an honest conversation about the city’s evolving identity, his personal journey, and those who shaped his life. We explore his deep Vancouver roots , the complex realities of the Downtown Eastside, and the importance of empathy in leadership. Councillor Fry shares stories of the moments that changed his life—and perhaps the future of our city.https://wholewayhouse.ca/https://www.crossourpawsrescue.com/@PtFry@ThextonConnectsCo-Produced by Rachel thexton and Angel Araujo.

In this episode, we chat with Arlene Panganiban, the owner and publisher of VancouverMom.ca , an essential online hub for mothers in Metro Vancouver. Arlene shares her journey to taking over the influential platform after being laid off and discusses her mission to create a space for authentic motherhood, moving beyond the curated perfection seen online. We explore how the platform provides hyper-local resources—from summer camps to birthday party ideas—tailored to the unique experience of raising a family in Greater Vancouver. #podcast #bc #vancouvermom #motherhood https://www.mamasformamas.org/vancouver/https://burnfund.org/https://www.vancouvermom.ca/Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo

During this candid in-person episode with Indigenous Artist, and Co-Founder of Miska Creative Society, Jesse Gouchey, and DTES Graffiti Legend and Advocate, Smokey Devil, we discuss art, Vancouver's Downtown Eastside Community, Indigenous culture, and the memory of the late Vancouver Superhero, Trey Helten.Miska Creative Society (https://www.miskasociety.com/)ACCESS - Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services (https://accessfutures.com/)VanCity OPS (https://www.vancityops.com/)Heart Tattoo Society (https://hearttattoosociety.com/)Greater Vancouver Food Bank | Providing fresh food to those in needhttps://www.ncanuel.com/ (https://foodbank.bc.ca/)

Ever feel like you're the only one juggling it all and that you are always falling short? In this teaser for the next episode of Rachel Thexton Connects, Arlene Panganiban shares a vital message: "I'm not alone, and I can do this, and get extra help." Arlene discusses common struggles, joys, and the power of connecting with other moms. If you're ready to ditch the "super mom" myth and embrace support, tune into the full episode, streaming soon. Discover why it's okay to say you "can't do it all" and find your strength in shared experiences.  https://www.vancouvermom.ca/

Raising Anti Racist Children- Moms Against Racism Founder and President Kerry Cavers shares her story and the organization's missionMoms Against RacismDiverse books basketMy Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma And The Pathway To Mending Our Hearts And Bodies Book By Resmaa Menakem, (Paperback) | IndigorachelthextonconnectsCo-Produced By Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Go listen to the full episode with Kerry Cavers from Moms Againts Racismmomsagainstracism

Only two days after an unspeakable act of violence against Vancouver's Filipino community, Culture Advocate, Storyteller, and Podcast Producer & Host of Filipino Fridays, Archierose Natividad joins me on the first episode of Season 4. Archierose speaks about healing and pain, but also shares the beauty of the Filipino culture, its history, and what we can learn as non-Filipino Canadians, both about the community and how we can help in meaningful ways.VS Creative Lab - https://vscreativelab.com/Mabuhay House Society - https://www.mabuhayhouse.ca/Filipino BC - https://filipinobc.com/Kamayan Feast - https://kulinarya.ca/vancouver/#kamayanCo-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo

Excited to launch Season 4 with Archierose Natividad, a talented Storyteller, Filipino Culture Advocate, andProducer & Host of @filipinofridayspodcast. Archierose provides a glimpse into Filipino culture and history. Stay tuned for the first episode of Season 4 , coming soon.Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Get ready! Season 4 of Rachel Thexton Connects is arriving soon. Tune in for authentic conversations that connect us, offering insights into vital community topics and a glimpse into Rachel's own story.Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

In a world of constant messaging, are you truly listening? Matt Borck, Chief Listening Officer at One Group Agency, joins us to discuss the power of empathy in marketing. Discover how to build authentic connections with your stakeholders by prioritizing the human element over simply pushing your message.https://spca.bc.ca/bccancerfoundation.comRachel ThextonView Rachel Thexton’sCo-produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo

Marketing has always been transactional—but what if we told you there’s a smarter way? Discover how empathy-driven listening is changing the game, cutting through the noise, and making brands truly connect. Are you posting more or posting smarter? Watch now! Don’t miss my next podcast episode- dropping tomorrow- with the marketing pro and Chief Listening Officer from @theonegroupagency

BC's Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, The Honourable Ravi Kahlon, joins me to discuss his role in BC's new War Room, his thoughts on media, housing, and why he spoke boldly in Cabada's defense at a recent press conference. Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Top BC Journalist talks about Evolving News, Journalism, and his Journey.Aaron McArthur, Senior Journalist and News Anchor with Global News BC joins me.https://register.transplant.bc.ca/https://www.odtrf.org/research/addison-pediatric-project/Co-Produced by Rachel thexton and Angel Araujo.

BC Home Detox Program Saving Lives and MoneyOptions Community Services Executive Director Neil Arao talks about this underutilized healthcare tool, and we discuss how the end of program funding would be a significant loss for British Columbia.Options Community Services-Donate here:Home | Options Community ServicesMore on Options Community Services Home Detox Program:Home Based Addictions Support and Detox Program | Options Community ServicesEmail BC's Health Minister Josie Osborne to voice your support for the home detox [email protected] by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Vancouver's Josh Rimer is one of BC's "original" digital leaders. Josh talks about the ups and downs he shares openly with his online communities, and what it means to be a leading voice within the Canadian LGBTQ community and beyond.https://www.drpeter.org/https://www.alovingspoonful.org/joshrimerrachelthextonconnects

Excited to announce my next guest, leading Canadian LGBTQ Content Creator, Producer, and Host,Josh Rimer! Episode coming this week on the podcast!rachelthextonconnectsCo-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

AI and Digital Pioneer, Photographer, Creative Technologist, and Educator Kris Krug joins Rachel Thexton for a dynamic discussion on digital, the depths of AI, and the heart. Neil Squire SocietyNeil Squire Society Socitety for Canadian Women in Science & TechnologySCWIST - Advocating for Diversity in STEM @kriskrug @rachelthextonconnects Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Questions about AI? Wondering about its value? Love it? Fear it?Announcing my upcoming episode with Digital and AI Pioneer, Educator and Photographer Kris Krug. Chapter 8 of Rachel Thexton Connects Drops this week. Stay Tuned. kriskrug.co Instagram: ⁠@kriskrug⁠@rachelthextonconnects Music By Dumpster Fire Media Video by david argueta from Pixabay Sound Effect by freesound_community from Pixabay Video by PIRO from Pixabay Sound Effect by Moniker_Subriquet from Pixabay. Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Lawyer and Advocate Kamaljit Lehal shares her journey, policy reform work, and discusses her concerns regarding immigration policy changes and the dangerous narrative building regarding Canadian newcomers. Home | BC Children's Hospital Foundation Options Community Services Music by Ramlal Rohitash from Pixabay. Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Dropping on all podcast platforms on January 21st, my next guest shares her concerns for Canadian minorities and new immigration policies made quickly, and without consultation. Kamaljit Lehal also discusses her journey in immigration law and her work in policy reform. Don't miss this timely episode with an impressive Canadian lawyer who leads with intelligence, determination, and heart. Kamaljit Lehal Music by Ramlal Rohitash from Pixabay. Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

As I prepare to launch the second part of season #3, I discuss my plans for the podcast in 2025 as well as how much the RTC community means to me. I also talk about work/life balance, activities for kids, especially neurodiverse children, and I discuss my recent experience spending a longer period of time in the United States, having also lived in the US for five years while studying for my undergraduate degree. My thoughts about potentially living in the USA may surprise you. https://vitamagazine.com/2025/01/06/8-canadian-podcasts-to-stream-in-2025/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xua_j_fTS4&t=4s

Rachel Gets Personal-Parenting mistakes, faith, and lack of purpose, and nostalgia, in a video monologue from Southwestern Florida. Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Filmmaker, and impactful storyteller, Inder Nirwan, is Founder of Kahani Pictures and joins me to discuss his journey in life and in film. We discuss how making incredible videos for natural cosmetic brand Lush led him to building his own company, Kahani Pictures, meaning "story" in Punjabi. Plenty Of Plates | Charitable Team Building Vancouver | A Better Life Foundation | Feeding, Training and Employment Charity Canada ਸੁਣੋ (Listen): The Struggles of Female South Asian Students Inder Nirwan (@indermedia) • Instagram photos and videos About Kahani Pictures: Champions of Social Impact Storytelling in Vancouver Co-produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo.

Rachel Gets Personal, Rachel shares candid reflections from her car—covering the joys and challenges of parenthood, the impact of bullying in schools, the beauty of her new South Surrey community, and the delicate balance of work, family, and self-care. A relatable and inspiring glimpse into her life, filled with honesty and thoughtful observations. C0-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo. https://www.rachelthextonconnects.com/

Chair  of Vancouver's School Board, Victoria Jung, sits down for her first in depth conversation since parting ways with the ABC political party. Victoria Jung discusses her journey, passions for youth and education, some of the challenges we face in education, potential solutions, and more!Vancouver Sport Hosting Grants | City of Vancouver⁠      ⁠Web Summit Vancouver | Innovate BC⁠Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo

Chair of Vancouver School Board, Victoria Jung, joins me for a discussion about her story, passion for education and youth, and even her departure from the ABC Party. This is an important conversation. Coming this week on the podcast! Music by LudoSoundX from Pixabay. Co-Produced by Rachel Thexton and Angel Araujo

Greater Vancouver CEO Steven Stark of Tsawwassen Nation shares his story of adversity and how he built an incredibly successful business, Tsawwassen Shuttles Inc, while leading others to find their way and embrace their Indigenous culture. Steven Stark's mentor, and a Tsawwassen Nation elder and leader, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.Passing of Chief Swәnnәset Ken Baird: August 2, 2022 - Tsawwassen First NationPlenty Of Plates | Charitable Team Building Vancouver | A Better Life Foundation | Feeding, Training and Employment Charity CanadaTsawwassen Shuttles Inc. (@tsawwassen__shuttles) • Instagram photos and videosRachelThextonConnects (@rachelthextonconnects) • Instagram photos and videosMusic by Lofium from Pixabay