Let's Talk Housing: A Podcast by BC Housing

In this episode of Let’s Talk Housing, we sit down with B.C.’s new Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, Christine Boyle. As she steps into this critical role, we learn about how Minister Boyle is settling in, what inspires her leadership, and how her experiences have shaped her path forward. We’ll discuss her early priorities, explore her vision for tackling British Columbia’s housing challe...

Season 6 Episode 3 In this episode of Let’s Talk Housing, we explore how B.C. is using new tools and standardized designs to build homes faster and more affordably. DASH (Digitally Accelerated Standardized Housing) is a new online platform that helps developers and non-profits choose pre-approved building designs, use made-in-B.C. materials, and speed up the permitting and construction process.  W...

Season 6 Episode 2 In this episode, host Mita speaks with BC Housing’s own Shaleen Pillay-Naidu and Amber Bell to explore how tenant support programs help make housing more than just a place to live. By featuring voices from the Tenant Engagement team, the conversation showcases how programs like community kitchens peer-led initiatives and the Tenant Activity Grant (TAG) helps create safe, support...

Season 6 Episode 1     In this episode, host Mita speaks with Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi, Executive Director of the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness (ACEH). Together, they explore how ACEH is transforming housing across Vancouver Island through culturally supportive, wraparound, and community-driven approaches that strengthen connection, wellness, and belonging.  Fran shares how programs like the...

*This episode was filmed during Minister Kahlon’s tenure as Minister of Housing.   In this episode of Let’s Talk Housing, we take a closer look at two programs that are helping British Columbians stay housed—the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) and the Rental Assistance Program (RAP).    These impactful supports provide monthly rent subsidies to seniors and low-income families, easing finan...

How do you create affordable, independent living in a small community? In this episode, we visit Fort St. James, where the new Neghuni Ghunli-un housing facility is providing 36 suites for older adults (55+). Developed in partnership with Nak'azdli Whut'en, this project is the result of a collaboration that reflects the Nation’s leadership in creating culturally safe, community-driven housing solu...

In this episode, we explore how organizations are redefining their approach to accessibility, broadening their lens and criteria to meet evolving needs. We’ll examine how accessibility has expanded to include not just physical aspects but also support for intellectual and cognitive needs, reflecting a more inclusive approach.  Guests: Brad McCannell, VP of Access and Inclusion, Rick Hansen Foundat...

In this episode, we explore unique issues and solutions experienced specifically by individuals of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, as they have navigated/continue to navigate the housing system. We will listen to the lived experience of 2-Spirit and Transgender folks, highlighting the uniqueness of their stories and challenges. Finally, a housing site that will be operating with queer mandates, will be...

Brenda Knight of BC Indigenous Housing Society shares fond memories of being raised by her grandmother and the importance of intergenerational housing. That's why the society’s latest housing project at 1766 Frances St. in Vancouver (Chief Leonard George) will feature a dedicated space for grandparents ensuring that the wisdom and care of elders will be passed through the generations. The project...

We’re back with Season 5 of Let’s Talk Housing—and we have a new host! Join Mita Naidu, BC Housing's Director of Content Strategy, as she dives into the stories, people, and partnerships shaping housing across B.C.  In this episode, we’re talking about BC Builds—a groundbreaking initiative tackling the housing crisis in British Columbia. The program uses under-used public land and strong partnersh...

In this special episode of Let’s Talk Housing, Sara Goldvine passes the torch to the podcast’s new host, Mita Naidu. The two reflect on Sara’s time as host, discussing key moments, housing policies, and progress made in BC’s housing sector. Together, they explore what’s next for Sara, the future of the podcast, and what the housing sector needs most to thrive. It’s a heartfelt conversation about c...

In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between pets and their owners living in the Downtown Eastside. For many in this community, pets are more than just animals—they are loyal companions offering unconditional love and support in challenging circumstances.  We’ll also dive into the findings from a two-year pilot partnership between BC Housing and the BC SPCA, which sheds light on the...

In this episode, we explore a unique housing development in Terrace that brings different generations together under one roof. This project offers not just homes, but a space where seniors and youth can connect, share stories, and build relationships. Designed in collaboration with youth and families, on the ground floor will be Foundry Terrace, offering integrated health and wellness services for...

This episode highlights BC Housing’s efforts to build resilient communities through innovative tenant engagement programs. By fostering social ties and preparing for emergencies, BC Housing creates supportive environments. It covers the Community Development Framework and the impact of events like the heat dome and flooding on residents. The collaboration with Building Resilient Neighborhoods emph...

Let’s Talk Housing S4 E2 From B.C. to Ontario: Innovative Strategies on Homelessness This episode explores the common challenges and innovative solutions in social housing, drawing parallels between Ottawa Community Housing and BC Housing. Ottawa Community Housing’s CEO recently introduced the Complex Care Housing Strategy, which aims to support tenants emerging from chronic homelessness, as well...

In this episode, we sit down with B.C.’s Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, Ravi Kahlon , to discuss his expanded portfolio and the critical challenges facing the housing sector. We explore how the integration of housing and municipal affairs allows for greater collaboration and efficiency, the lessons learned from his previous term, and his priorities moving forward. Guests:  Hon. Ravi Ka...

Donalene Rapada of Hiyam Society and Dave Ward of Lu’ma Development Management discuss the partnership between the two Indigenous organizations, the projects they have been working on and how they’re ensuring that Indigenous rights are prioritized. This episode presents an opportunity to hear about the challenges and successes both organizations have had in providing housing options for Indigenous...

The Legion Veterans Village (LVV) is an integrated centre of excellence for veterans and first responders focusing on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mental health. In this episode, Sara talks with Melissa DeGenova, Director of Development Partnerships at VRS Communities, a nonprofit that owns and operates the new homes, and Brian Mckenna, a veteran and resident of LVV. They discuss the...

In this episode, Sara talks to Meera Mathew from the Existence Project and two storytellers to discuss how sharing personal stories can bring people from different backgrounds together and challenge the stereotypes about people experiencing homelessness. The Storyteller project helps people who've been homeless share their own stories to make a positive change in the way we talk about homelessness...

This special live podcast panel event was held in February to honour Black History Month. The episode explores the challenges Black communities face in finding safe and affordable housing in Metro Vancouver. Guest host Mary Gerges, Executive Director of Reconciliation & Equity Strategies at BC Housing, speaks with Modupe Bankole-Longe from Hogan’s Alley Society, Jean-Claude Bakundukize from Sw...

Carla Guerrera of Purpose Driven Developments and Carla Busnardo, Board Member of Soroptimist House talk about their innovative and ground-breaking housing redevelopment project in Vancouver – a 13-storey concrete tower at West 13th Avenue and Cambie Street which will provide 135 units of affordable housing for senior women, women-led families, and workforce women. It’s the only project in North A...

This is a special joint episode with On the Way Home Podcast from the National Conference on Ending Homelessness in Nova Scotia. In this episode, Michael Braithwaite from Blue Door and Sara Goldvine from BC Housing talk about why addressing stigma and misinformation is so crucial for building support for housing solutions. They also touch on the importance of creating community  for folks in need...

Vancouver’s Chinatown has been home to newcomers for generations, including many immigrants from China who were often excluded from other neighborhoods. In this episode, Sara talks with Queenie Choo, CEO of S.U.C.C.E.S.S, and Tim Lam, whose grandfather lived in Chinatown for many years. His home, Grace Manor was sold in 2021, leaving Tim’s grandfather and other residents without much time to find...

For many young people, moving into their first home is challenging. It’s even more so for youth with disabilities, who face additional barriers. In this episode, Sara talks with Linden, a resident of The Village at Pleasant Valley, Linden’s mother, Andrea, and Cindy Masters, executive director, Okanagan Village Housing Society. They discuss Linden’s journey to his own home and the importance of ac...

Sara continues the conversation with Kathleen MacKinnon from Turning Points Collaborative Society and Nanette Drobot from BC Housing, exploring the warm community welcome folks received once arriving in Penticton, and the lasting impacts collaboration had on Turning Points staff. To learn more about Turning Points Collaborative Society, visit: https://turningpoints.ngo/