Conversations Live with Stuart McNish

In this episode of Conversations Live, we bring together some of BC's most influential business and economic leaders to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and decisions that will shape the province's future. As British Columbia faces increasing global competition, shifting trade relationships, and pressure to improve productivity, this conversation explores what it will take to unlock investme...

Five candidates. One leadership race. One big question: who will lead British Columbia next? On April 28, Conversations Live brought together the five contenders in the race to lead the Conservative Party of BC — and potentially become the province’s next premier. This timely conversation tackled the issues shaping B.C. today — health care, public safety, the economy, the environment, and First Na...

BC’s critical minerals sector is at a pivotal moment. The opportunity ahead is significant. As global demand accelerates for the materials powering EVs, batteries, and clean technology, the question goes beyond what BC has in the ground. How can we attract the investment needed to bring these projects to life? This timely panel explored what it takes to unlock capital and move projects forward, in...

Are BC mayors actually equipped to handle the biggest issues facing our province in 2026? In this special edition of Conversations Live, we sit down with a powerhouse panel of British Columbia mayors to discuss the "nuts and bolts" of running local jurisdictions during a period of unprecedented change. From the provincial government’s aggressive new housing mandates to the "street disorder" c...

In this special episode of Conversations Live, recorded at AME Roundup 2026, industry leaders come together to examine the future of mineral exploration and development in British Columbia and across Canada. As global demand for critical minerals accelerates, driven by the clean energy transition, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain security, panelists warn that declining exploration activity,...

Canada’s immigration system is at a critical turning point. In this episode of Conversations Live, an expert panel examines how record levels of permanent and non-permanent immigration have impacted housing affordability, health care, education, infrastructure, labour markets, and community planning and what recent policy shifts mean for Canada’s future. The discussion explores whether immigration...

Conversations Live took a deep dive into one of the most urgent issues of our time: Cybersecurity. From AI-powered deepfakes to the rising cost of cybercrime in Canada, our expert panel broke down the threats and the opportunities shaping our digital future. Vancouver’s growing role as a cybersecurity hub was a standout theme. A big thank-you to our panel: Milos Stojadinovic (RBC), Erik Berg (KPMG...

The B.C. economy continues to shrink but we are looking for creative ways to turn the tide! Conversations Live is partnering with the Indigenous Partnership Success Showcase to spotlight the innovative collaborations that are bringing growth back to the province. Our panel will bring together leaders driving progress through partnership and entrepreneurial thinking. Featuring: Chief Derek Epp, Ch’...

With British Columbia’s economy on a slow downward trajectory, one question stands out: Can the innovation economy boost the province’s performance? The answer might be yes if we can  train, retain, and attract the best and brightest minds . But that’s no easy task in a world competing fiercely for talent. Recent U.S. policy changes, including a $100,000 H-1B visa fee, could gi...

Canada and BC are introducing legislation to fast-track major projects in energy, mining, forestry, and infrastructure. On the surface, it signals that investment is welcome in our nation again. But here’s the reality: without meaningful consultation and partnership with First Nations, these projects risk delays or outright failure. That’s why projects developed  with  Indigenous co...

On Thursday, July 24 at 5 p.m., Conversations Live welcomes Pete Hoekstra, the newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to Canada, for an exclusive and timely discussion on the evolving relationship between our two nations. From long-standing trade partnerships to moments of political tension, the Canada-U.S. relationship has been described as both special and complicated. In this live episode, Ambassador...

Energy access and sustainability are at the heart of Canada's economy and British Columbia is facing a pivotal moment. How can we ensure energy security, equitable access, and environmental responsibility in a rapidly evolving landscape? Join us on Conversations Live for a timely and thought-provoking panel on June 17 at 5:30 PM. We’ll explore BC’s current energy mix, still dominated by electricit...

Growing old isn't for the faint of heart. Physical health, mental health, financial health, and loneliness are some of the issues we all face as we clear the 70-year mark. What is it about British Columbia that we're near the top of the global longevity spectrum? As you age do you fear health care resources, mental health resources, a lack of social services, a lack of social networks, or a lack o...

The economic opportunities mining presents are enormous, however, the Trump Administration has thrown a wrench into the development of North American critical minerals. "The demand for critical minerals in the United States is not going to change" says Michael Goehring of the Mining Association of British Columbia, "the US has two choices of supply China and Canada. The US needs our critical...

AI is not just a tool for efficiency but a strategic enabler for strengthening Canada’s competitiveness, innovation, resilience, and long-term prosperity during a time of geopolitical uncertainty. Industry leaders will share real-world strategies for integrating AI and overcoming adoption challenges for the benefit of Canadian companies and the economy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for m...

Earth Day, an international recognition that we need to protect our home. This precious blue marble in space, uniquely positioned to sustain life as we know it. Easy access to energy has powered dramatic changes and advances in our quality of life and it has also had an impact on the environment. For much of the past 20 years in Canada, the environment and sustainable energy has been at the forefr...

British Columbia's economy is at a turning point. As we face a period of modest growth transforming into a potential economic storm, it's crucial to stay informed. Join Stuart McNish as he hosts another live conversation featuring top economic experts to discuss the challenges ahead. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the key issues impacting BC's economy, from the projected $11 billion budg...

If American produced food is removed from grocery stores in British Columbia, get ready to go without. More than 60 per cent of the products on the shelves are from south of the 49th parallel.  If you want a balanced diet of vegetables, grains, fruits and protein then you can not source all of your meals from BC or Canada. The way we grow and trade food back and forth is based on who can grow...

Join us as we dive into Bill 7: The Economic Stabilization Act, a proposed BC law that could reshape government powers over public funds and infrastructure in response to global economic uncertainties. What does this mean for businesses and taxpayers? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last year at this time the headlines were filled with Real Estate Crisis stories. The Province and the Feds were making announcements upon announcements. Bill 44 was introduced with the idea that it would force municipal governments to increase density. It is legislation that was supposed to increase certainty of supply, stabilize prices and boost construction. But did it work? Hosted on Acast. Se...

Donald Trump has demonstrated Canada is vulnerable because we are heavily dependent on his country for trade. Everyone agrees we need to open new trading relationships. Direct Foreign Investment is a significant step in that direction. DFI is an economic generator that provides jobs, tax revenue, infrastructure development, skills development and foreign exchange.  Hosted on Acast. See acast....

We’re heading into a change election. The Liberals will put forward a new leader who will be charged with the daunting task of overcoming a significant gap in the polls. All indications suggest the Conservatives led by Pierre Poilievre will form the next Federal Government. If Mr. Poiliever is successful with voters, what can we expect regarding tone, the economy, social programs, immigration, Ind...

Indigenous leadership is shaping 2025 and beyond - socially, economically and culturally.   First Nations and Indigenous organizations are developing housing, businesses, and resource sector projects. These organizations are utilizing legislative venues only open to them, and in doing so they are pushing through the clutter, increasing the pace of approval and delivering permits where ci...

It is not news there are glaring cracks in our healthcare systems – in some cases reaching a breaking point. In both BC and AB numerous rural emergency departments have closed for hours, even days, due to shortages.  Healthcare organizations in both BC & Alberta struggle to recruit skilled doctors, nurses, care aids, and other skilled professionals. What can be done to alleviate the press...

Canadians don’t get to vote in the upcoming US election, but its results will have an out-sized impact on our lives. The US is not only a world power with which we share an expansive border, the country is our largest trading partner and ally on the global stage. The two presidential candidates have very different visions for the role the US will play on the world stage and in cross-border trade....