TIABC's Voice of Tourism

In this episode of TIABC's Voice of Tourism, Walt Judas welcomes Matt Jennings, Executive Director of the BC Fishing Tourism Association, for a wide-ranging conversation about fishing, rural tourism, and the future of BC's angling sector.Matt shares how growing up in the small community of Little Fort, where his father ran a fly shop on Fishing Highway 24 for over 30 years, eventually led him back to the fishing world after years of traveling, working in silviculture, and living part-time on a Caribbean island off the coast of Nicaragua. What started as a part-time marketing gig with the association grew into a full-time role leading advocacy and the provincial Fishing BC marketing campaign on behalf of roughly 150 freshwater resorts and angling guides.The conversation digs into the real challenges facing fishing tourism operators: Crown tenure costs, the loss of lakeside resorts to private buyers, access and opportunity for guided anglers, and the complexities of navigating both provincial and federal fisheries regulation. Matt explains why he remains bullish on the sector's future, pointing to BC's unmatched diversity of freshwater and saltwater experiences, the sustainability of stocked lake fisheries funded by licence holders, and a promising trend of First Nations communities purchasing and operating fishing lodges as part of their economic development strategies. He also reflects on what rural tourism means in BC, calling his stakeholders "pioneers" who have been drawing visitors to remote corners of the province for generations, and makes a case for keeping fish and wildlife management in the hands of passionate non-profits rather than government bureaucracy.

In this episode of TIABC's Voice of Tourism, Walt Judas welcomes Royce Chwin, President and CEO of Destination Vancouver, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, city building, and the future of Vancouver's visitor economy. Born and raised in the Lower Mainland, Royce shares his non-linear career path, from cleaning grease traps and opening Boston Pizza franchises to leading Canada's national tourism brand and eventually running one of the country's top destination management organizations. The conversation covers Destination Vancouver's transformation from a traditional sales-and-promotion DMO into a full destination management organization, tackling everything from hotel development policy and attraction investment to downtown safety and new international market opportunities. Royce details how the Hotel Development Task Force moved the city's pipeline from 9 to 28 properties, why Vancouver needs to reach 10,000 hotel rooms by 2050, and what the 2026 FIFA World Cup means as the next "leapfrog moment" for a city that is the only one in the world to have hosted a World Expo, Winter Olympics, FIFA Women's World Cup, and Men's World Cup. He also reflects on AI adoption at Destination Vancouver, the irreplaceable human element of tourism, and why curiosity and a mindset of change are at the core of his leadership philosophy.

In this episode of TIABC's Voice of Tourism, Walt Judas welcomes Marsha Walden, President and CEO of Destination Canada, for an engaging conversation about her remarkable career journey and Canada's ambitious tourism future. Born to Dutch immigrants in Vancouver, Walden shares how her father's hotel business sparked her early connection to tourism, beginning with her first job as a buffet attendant at the planetarium. She traces her path through 17 years in advertising with Baker-Lavic and BBDO, the BC Lottery Corporation, and seven years leading Destination British Columbia before taking the helm at Destination Canada during the pandemic. Walden discusses Canada's strategic goal to reach the global top 10 in tourism competitiveness, currently ranking 11th, through seven key levers including labour supply, investment attraction, air access, and sustainability. She reflects on the industry's challenges and optimism, the innovative Open Home campaign reassuring American visitors they're welcome in Canada, and the transformative role destination organizations must play beyond marketing. As she prepares for retirement after 40 years in business, Walden looks forward to time with her three young grandsons, travel with friends, and enjoying her off-grid cabin in Howe Sound.

In this episode of TIABC's Voice of Tourism, Walt Judas welcomes Starr McMichael, owner and president of Starrboard Enterprises, for a conversation spanning decades of tourism innovation on southern Vancouver Island. Starr shares her journey from cleaning the heads on the historic Princess Marguerite turboelectric vessel to building the Truffles Group and becoming a governance leader with her Institute of Corporate Directors designation from the Rotman School of Business. She reflects on co-founding the IMPACT Conference, now entering its ninth year, which brings together cleantech innovators, Indigenous leaders, and tourism professionals to advance regenerative business practices. Starr discusses the power tourism professionals have to drive change, the importance of including local communities in business decisions, and why she believes the conversation around regenerative tourism is still evolving. Her philosophy of leading with gratitude shapes both her board work across multiple organizations and her approach to building a more sustainable tourism industry.

In this episode, Walt Judas welcomes Mike Retasket, who currently serves as a Director for the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, New Pathways to Gold Society, and TIABC, for a powerful conversation about Indigenous leadership, cultural preservation, and the journey from activism to reconciliation through tourism. Mike shares his remarkable path from crossing the US-Canada border to becoming Chief of the Bonaparte Indian Band, his transformation from Olympic protestor to one of the Games' most photographed Indigenous ambassadors, and his current work as a cultural interpreter and storyteller at Barkerville Historic Town and Park. This episode explores the complexities of Aboriginal title, the Heritage Conservation Act, and what meaningful reconciliation looks like in BC's tourism landscape, offering invaluable insights for anyone committed to building authentic Indigenous partnerships.Chapter Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction01:01 – From Oliver to Oroville: Growing Up Between Borders03:35 – Finding Home: Returning to Canada and Bonaparte06:51 – Becoming an Indian: Learning Language, Culture, and Medicine11:10 – Leadership Years: Chief of Bonaparte Indian Band15:54 – From Protest to Partnership: The Tourism Journey Begins18:34 – Barkerville: Cultural Interpretation and Storytelling22:46 – Aboriginal Title: What It Really Means26:09 – The Cowichan Decision: Addressing Public Concerns31:15 – Heritage Conservation Act: Protecting Sacred Sites35:48 – Steps Toward Reconciliation: What Businesses Can Do36:45 – Honorary Doctorate: Recognition and Legacy

In this episode of TIABC’s Voice of Tourism, Brett Soberg, co-owner and lead captain of Eagle Wing Whale Watching and Wildlife Tours, shares his journey from art school to marine ecotourism and his passion for protecting the Salish Sea.He discusses how Eagle Wing became North America’s first carbon-neutral whale watching company, the creation of their award-winning Floating Classroom program, and the balance between sustainability, regulation, and guest experience. Brett also reflects on life off-grid and the importance of collaboration in safeguarding marine ecosystems and the Southern Resident killer whales.

In this episode of TIABC's Voice of Tourism, Ben Liegey, founder and CEO of Better Table, shares his journey from Alsace, France, to Canada, where he focuses on food sustainability and reducing food waste in the tourism industry. He discusses the importance of understanding food waste, the impact of sustainability practices, and the role of culinary tourism and agritourism in British Columbia. Ben also highlights his documentary, Food Synergy, which aims to inspire change in food waste solutions across the food supply chain.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Heather MacDonald, Chief Integrative Officer of Gibbons Whistler, for an engaging conversation on leadership, workforce challenges, and the resort community’s future. Heather shares her journey from Perth, Australia to Whistler, starting as a server at Black’s Pub and working her way through finance and operations to help lead one of Whistler’s most dynamic tourism companies. She reflects on her experiences during the 2010 Winter Olympics, the growth of Gibbons into food and beverage, accommodation, recreation, and events, and the company’s mission to create joy for guests, staff, and the community. Heather also discusses pressing issues like housing, workforce recruitment, immigration policy, and sustainability, while offering her perspective on Whistler’s growth and potential to once again host the Olympics.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President of Big White Ski Resort Ltd., for a dynamic conversation on hospitality, ski tourism, and the future of winter recreation in BC. Michael shares his journey from Winnipeg to Jasper Park Lodge and eventually to the Okanagan, where he helped shape Big White into a world-class destination. He reflects on lessons learned in hospitality, his time working abroad in Australia, and the unique attributes that make Big White stand out—including its legendary champagne powder and close proximity to Kelowna’s international airport. Michael also discusses the challenges of red tape, the need to attract new generations of skiers, and the importance of infrastructure and air access in keeping BC’s ski industry globally competitive.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Deneen Allen, founder and CEO of Firecircle and Pure North Canada, for an inspiring conversation on entrepreneurship, innovation, and tourism development. Deneen shares her journey from boutique hospitality ventures in Ontario to building Canada’s first online tourism and hospitality development hub. She reflects on the challenges and opportunities she’s encountered working with rural operators, Indigenous communities, and entrepreneurs across the country, highlighting the importance of brand, operations, design, and financial management in building sustainable businesses. Deneen also discusses the regulatory barriers facing agritourism, the need for greater investment in tourism infrastructure, and how Fire Circle is helping to close knowledge gaps for the next generation of operators.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Barrett Fisher, President and CEO of Tourism Whistler, for an engaging conversation on destination management, major events, and community sustainability. Barrett shares her journey from journalism on Vancouver’s North Shore to leading one of Canada’s premier resort destinations for over three decades. She reflects on Whistler’s transformation before and after hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the community’s progress on housing and transportation, and the importance of balancing growth with responsible tourism. Barrett also discusses her organization’s unique funding model, efforts to extend the tourism season, and the policy priorities needed to keep Whistler competitive and vibrant year-round.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Serge Corbeil, Director of Government and Community Relations for Air Canada, for a compelling conversation on aviation, tourism, and public policy. Serge shares his journey from Montreal to BC, moving from journalism and politics to the airline industry. He reflects on Air Canada’s impact on regional connectivity, the challenges of navigating government regulations, and his advocacy work with TIABC. As he approaches retirement, Serge offers insights on leadership, the value of collaboration in tourism, and his plans to focus on travel and marathon running.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Sandra Oldfield, founder of Elysian Projects and former CEO of Tinhorn Creek Winery, for a compelling conversation on entrepreneurship, wine tourism, and leadership. Sandra shares her journey from California to BC’s South Okanagan, reflecting on her role in building a destination winery and the lessons she’s carried into her work mentoring small businesses. She also discusses her contributions to tourism policy through her involvement with TOTA and TIABC, and how rural tourism operators can balance growth with personal well-being.

Frank Antoine, Chief of the Bonaparte First Nation and co-founder of Moccasin Trails, joins TIABC’s Voice of Tourism podcast to share his journey from ranching and golf to global Indigenous tourism leadership. He reflects on regenerative tourism, cultural sustainability, community building, and his vision for Indigenous-led tourism in BC and beyond.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Kathy Cooper, CEO of Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, for an engaging discussion on the evolution of tourism in the region. Kathy shares her journey from the hospitality industry to tourism leadership, highlighting how Kootenay Rockies Tourism has navigated challenges like transportation gaps, sustainability, and shifting community values. She also discusses the importance of strategic investments and thoughtful destination development in shaping the future of tourism in British Columbia.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Brenda Baptiste, Chair of Indigenous Tourism BC, for an engaging discussion on the transformative power of Indigenous tourism. Brenda shares her journey from community health nursing to tourism leadership, highlighting how cultural revitalization, economic development, and identity are deeply connected.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Peter Pilarski, Founder of Tourism AI Network, to discuss his inspiring journey, the role of AI in overcoming industry challenges, and how tourism businesses can adopt new technologies to stay competitive and deliver world-class experiences.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO at Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association discuss her career path, her work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in the province today.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Amy Thacker , CEO at Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association discuss her career path, her work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in the province today.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Krista Bax, CEO at go2HR discuss her career path, her work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in the province today.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Anthony Everett, Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer, 4VI Social Enterprise Group discuss his career path, his work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in the province today.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Craig Murray, Owner of Nimmo Bay Resort, discusses his career path, his work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners & operators face in the province today.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Dave Butler, Vice-President, Sustainability, at CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures, discuss his career path, his work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in the province today.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Nancy Stibbard, Owner and CEO of the Capilano Group of Companies, discuss her career path, her work in tourism through the Capilano Group's different businesses, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in the province today.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the Capilano Group here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Charlayne Thornton-Joe, Visitor Experience and Facilities Coordinator at the Chinese Canadian Museum Society of British Columbia, discuss her career path, her work with tourism as a former Victoria City Councillor, and what BC's cities need to grow and prosper as tourism destinations.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the Chinese Canadian Museum Society of British Columbia here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Sandra Riches, Executive Director of BC AdventureSmart, discuss her career path, the importance of outdoor education, and the importance of tourism to BC's outdoor adventure sector.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about AdventureSmart here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Rachela Pollock, host of the She Dares to Travel podcast, discuss her career path, the value of travel agents, and her travel experiences.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the She Dares to Travel podcast here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Ingrid Jarrett, President and CEO of the BC Hotel Association, discuss her career path, the interconnectedness of BC's tourism industry, and the state of BC's hotel sector.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the BC Hotel Association here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Gladys Atrill, Executive Director of Tourism Smithers, discuss her career path, the need to foster domestic tourism, and the importance of a strong tourism industry in Britich Columbia.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about Tourism Smithers here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Cheryl MacKinnon, Principal of Wellness Travel BC, discuss the growth of wellness travel following the pandemic, her work with the Association, and some of the policy issues affecting the industry that require government attention.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about Wellness Travel BC here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Brad Harrison, Executive Director of the Backcountry Lodges of British Columbia Association, discuss growing up in BC's backcountry, his work with the Association, and some of the policy issues affecting the industry that require government attention.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the Backcountry Lodges of British Columbia Association here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Joanna Jagger, Founder and President of the WORTH (Women of Recreation, Tourism, and Hospitality) Association, discuss the importance of supporting women in BC's tourism industry, her vision for the organization in the future, and some of the policy issues affecting the industry that require government attention.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the WORTH Association here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Dave Cowen, CEO of the Butchart Gardens. Together, they discuss the importance of BC's tourism sector, the impact of climate change and environmental impacts on the garden, and some of the policy issues currently affecting the industry that require government attention.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the Butchart Gardens here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Paul Nursey, President and CEO of Destination Greater Victoria, and Lisanne Ballantyne, President and CEO of Tourism Kelowna. Together, they discuss the importance of BC's tourism sector, recovery following the impact of this summer's wildfires, and some of the policy issues currently affecting the industry that require government attention.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about Destination Greater Victoria here.Learn more about Tourism Kelowna here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Christopher Nicholson, CEO of Canada West Ski Areas Association, discuss the ski tourism sector and some of the policy issues affecting the industry that require government attention.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the Canada West Ski Areas Association here.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Dave Frank, Executive Director of the British Columbia Aviation Council about the work they're doing for members around the province, the policy and advocacy challenges facing the aviation and tourism sectors, and how we can move towards a more sustainable aviation industry.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the British Columbia Aviation Council here

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Martin Littlejohn, Executive Director of the Western Canadian Mountain Bike Tourism Association (MBTA), about the work they're doing for members around the province, the importance of the industry as part of BC's tourism economy, and the supports needed for local bike clubs.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Learn more about the Western Canadian Mountain Bike Tourism Association here

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Scott Ellis, CEO and Executive Director of the Guide Outfitters Association of BC, about the work they're doing for members around the province, his thoughts on the grizzly bear hunt in BC, and better controlling wildlife activities.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Follow the Guide Outfitters Association of BC on Facebook and Instagram

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Scott Benton, President of the BC River Outfitters Association, about the role they play in BC’s tourism section, the advocacy role they play for their members, and the impacts of the pandemic on the river rafting sector.--Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sector.Follow the BC River Outfitters Association on Facebook and Instagram

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with John Wilson, President and CEO of the Wilson’s Group of Companies, about the work they’re doing in BC’s transportation section, his journey into leading a diverse portfolio of businesses, and the issues currently facing tourism operators including labour shortages and debt repayment. --Follow TIABC on LinkedInSubscribe to the TIABC mailing list for regular updates on BC's tourism sectorFollow Wilson’s Group of Companies on LinkedIn

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Erin Gless, Executive Director of the Pacific Whale Watch Association, about the work they're doing on behalf of members and the impact of their research on ecotourism in British Columbia.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Angela Nagy, President and CEO of GreenStep Solutions, about the work GreenStep Solutions does to help organizations measure their sustainability importance, the importance of certification training, and where the tourism & hospitality industry needs to go.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Jeff Guignard, Executive Director ofthe Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE BC), about the work ABLE BC does on behalf of private liquor and cannabis operators, some of the issues they face currently, and how government can assist this sector in its economic recovery following the pandemic.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Philip Mondor, President and CEO of Tourism HR Canada, about the tourism workforce shortage in Canada and the issues associated with it, government policy, and other initatives in the tourism labour market.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Owen Bird, Executive Director of the Sport Fishing Institute of BC, about the sport fishing sector, sustainable fishing, and fishery management.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Ross Cloutier, Executive Director of Helicat Canada, discuss the adventure tourism sector as well as tenure security, wildlife management, and other policies that require government attention.

Tourist Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) CEO and Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Kathy MacRae, Executive Director of the Commercial Bear Viewing Association of British Columbia, about the association and the Adventure Tourism Coalition's proposed Adventure Tourism Policy.

In TIABC's Voice of Tourism inaugural episode, host Walt Judas, CEO of Tourist Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC), speaks with Joss Penny, Executive Director of the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association, about the camping sector including what's new, taxation, more.