Hey, Downtown Van!

In this episode, hosts Sofia Laratta and Downtown Van President & CEO, Jane Talbot sit down with Arezo Zarrabian, Senior Crime Analyst with the Vancouver Police Department, to explore crime trends, public safety, and what the data really tells us about downtown Vancouver. We discuss the impact of vibrant public spaces, major events like the Granville Street Pedestrian Zone, and how businesses, residents, and visitors can all play a role in creating a safer downtown.

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*This episode of Hey, Downtown Van was filmed in July, when Arezo was still serving as Senior Crime Analyst with the Vancouver Police Department. The release of this episode is not intended to coincide with or promote Arezo’s run for Vancouver City Council.
Downtown Van does not endorse any political party or candidate and remains strictly non-partisan.*

In this exciting episode, host Sofia Laratta sits down with Christina Florencio, Founder of REVIVAL Colour Analysis Studio, to explore the world of colour analysis and the transformative impact of finding the colours that truly suit you. From REVIVAL’s beginnings as a vintage clothing business to its evolution into a colour analysis studio in downtown Vancouver, they dive into personal style, smarter shopping, self-expression, and the confidence that comes with discovering your unique colour palette.

Join Hosts Sofia Laratta and Downtown Van President & CEO, Jane Talbot with special guest Brent Toderian, City Planner and Urbanist at TODERIAN UrbanWORKS Inc., as they discuss the Granville Street Pedestrian Zone, what the World Cup pilot revealed about the future of Vancouver's public spaces, the zone's extension, and what it takes to create thriving people-first streets and a strong downtown.

Join host Sofia Laratta as she sits down with award-winning chef and restaurateur Angus An to explore his journey from aspiring chef to one of Vancouver's leading culinary voices. Together, they discuss the intersection of culture, entrepreneurship, and hospitality. Learn about what it takes to build a great restaurant and creating meaningful experiences that extend far beyond the plate.

In this episode, hosts Sofia Laratta and Downtown Van President & CEO Jane Talbot sit down with Peter Jackman, General Manager of Terminal City Club, to discuss leading one of Vancouver's most historic private clubs through growth and transformation while preserving its rich traditions. Peter shares his journey, insights into the evolving member experience, and perspective on the future of downtown Vancouver's hospitality industry.

In this episode, hosts Sofia Laratta and Jane Talbot sit down with Royce Chwin, President and CEO of Destination Vancouver, to explore how tourism shapes the future of great cities. With decades of leadership experience, Royce shares insights on Vancouver’s evolving identity as a global destination and how visitor economies can strengthen both downtown vibrancy and community. Don't miss out on this one!

Catch the latest episode with Host Sofia Laratta as she sits down with Kalith Nanayakkara and Bradley Hoy, Co-Founders of Plug Vancouver, a community built to connect, inspire, and empower Vancouver's young professionals, creators, and founders. They share the story behind the brand, the lessons learned from building a thriving community, and some of their most memorable experiences in entertainment and media.

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.

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.

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.