Hey, Downtown Van!

Hosted by Downtown Van

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Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-CA

About the show

Get ready to discover the best of downtown Vancouver with our brand-new podcast, "Hey, Downtown Van!" hosted by the Downtown Van Business Improvement Association. In each episode, we'll chat with local business owners, influencers, and community leaders, to bring the latest insights and trends shaping the downtown landscape. Whether you're looking for business advice, your new favourite lunch spot, or want to learn more about the people and places that make this city great, we've got you covered.

Listen to episodes

51 recent

June 10, 2026Episode 61 hr 0 min

Luca Citton: From Lawyer to Leader

Join hosts Sofia Laratta and Downtown Van President & CEO Jane Talbot with special guest Luca Citton, President & Shareholder of Boughton Law, corporate lawyer, and community leader. Luca shares lessons on leadership, resilience, and community impact from more than 25 years in law. From navigating the pandemic as Board Chair of Downtown Van to helping shape major Vancouver initiatives, he reflects on leading through challenge and giving back along the way.

May 27, 2026Episode 527 min

Art From The Heart: Painting With Purpose

Join host Sofia Laratta as she sits down with Maria, Founder of Art From The Heart Vancouver, to explore how creativity can become a powerful tool for connection, healing, and self-expression. Maria shares the inspirations behind creating inclusive, community-driven art experiences where people of all backgrounds feel welcome to explore the craft. Tune in to hear the most memorable moments and what the paint nights entail.

May 13, 2026Episode 443 min

Gabriel Dalton: One Teen's Sustainable Mission

Hosts Sofia Laratta and Jane Talbot sit down with Vancouver-based developer and climate advocate Gabriel Dalton, President and Founder of Oasis of Change Inc. He shares how teaching himself to code at 10 and growing up on a boat shaped his vision for a more sustainable internet, along with insights from working with organizations like Microsoft and IKEA. From speaking as the youngest voice in the room to building Oasis of Change, Gabriel offers practical ways young people can start making an impact today.

April 29, 2026Episode 338 min

Tanya Bennett: Solving Vancouver Mysteries

Host Sofia Laratta sits down with Tanya Bennett, Owner of Vancouver Mysteries, an award-winning business creating engaging, puzzle-based adventures across downtown Vancouver. Tanya shares more about designing unforgettable experiences, the most unexpected moments from players, and the challenges of building and growing a creative business. Tune in to hear insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.Check vancouvermysteries.com for upcoming Murder is a Drag Dinners in May and June!

April 16, 202640 min

Graham Blank: Keeping the Music Alive in Vancouver

In this episode, Sofia Laratta and Jane Talbot sit down with Graham Blank, Vice President and Director of Tom Lee Music Canada, to explore his three-decade journey supporting musicians and shaping Vancouver’s music scene. He reflects on the evolution of Granville Street, shares memorable stories from the store, and discusses the importance of music to community and culture. The conversation also features personal insights into his life as a musician, his influences, and special live performances.

April 1, 2026Episode 148 min

Emad Yacoub: Building a Hospitality Powerhouse

Season 3 kicks off with host Sofia Laratta in conversation with Emad Yacoub, Founder, President, and CEO of Glowbal Restaurant Group. He shares how he built one of Vancouver’s most dynamic hospitality brands, growing it since 2002 into a portfolio of acclaimed restaurants that have become staples of the city’s dining scene. Tune in as he discusses how each concept maintains its own identity while upholding a consistent culture of excellence and hospitality.

February 4, 2026Episode 2245 min

Sheri Rowe: Just For Laughs Vancouver 2026

Catch up with Sofia Laratta and Sheri Rowe, Director of Festival Operations at Just For Laughs Vancouver, as they explore behind the scenes of one of Canada’s premier comedy festivals. Sheri shares how the festival brings together top comedians and rising talent, and a sneak peek at this year’s downtown Vancouver lineup. From memorable moments to what sets the festival apart, Sheri reveals why Just For Laughs Vancouver is the place for unforgettable laughs.

January 21, 2026Episode 2131 min

Chef Behshad: Where Technique Meets Inspiration

Explore the culinary world with Sofia Laratta and Chef Behshad, Executive Chef at C|Prime Modern Italian Steak & Wine. With experience in international kitchens, he blends classic Italian techniques with modern, ingredient-driven creativity, sharing how he crafts signature dishes, leads his team, and brings a fresh vision to Vancouver’s dining scene.

January 7, 2026Episode 2041 min

Armstrong + Lan: Women Leading the Storyline

Join host Sofia Laratta as she sits down with Tara Armstrong and Michelle Lan, the founders of Armstrong + Lan PR, to explore the story behind their agency from the spark that started it all to the unique challenges and advantages of being women in business. Discover what PR looks like day-to-day, the surprising and creative moments behind their campaigns, and how giving back is an integral part of their work.

December 17, 2025Episode 1925 min

Ashley Chandler: Where Work Meets Play

Tune in with Sofia Laratta and Ashley Chandler, Senior Manager of Programming & Events at Hudson Pacific Properties, as they explore how thoughtful activations turn office buildings into vibrant, connected communities. Ashley shares how tenant-focused events foster belonging, energize workplaces, and bring downtown Vancouver to life.