Hey, Downtown Van!

Join host Sofia Laratta and Jeff Martin, Owner of VANCITY Originals, as they look back on 25 years of Dipt and its impact on Vancouver’s streetwear scene. From celebrity encounters to behind-the-scenes stories, Jeff reflects on Dipt’s legacy, the challenges as an independent business, and what inspired his next chapter with VANCITY Originals. Jeff also shares his vision for the future and why he’s still betting on downtown.

Join hosts Sofia Laratta and Downtown Van President & CEO Jane Talbot as they welcome Peter Raptis, Owner of The Pawn Shop Granville. They dive into Peter’s journey through Vancouver’s hospitality industry, go behind the scenes of The Pawn Shop, and explore his front-row perspective on the evolution of Granville Street. Peter also shares his vision for the future of Granville, the role of BIAs, and what continues to make him believe in the future of downtown Vancouver.

Join hosts Sofia Laratta and Downtown Van President & CEO Jane Talbot as they welcome Peter Raptis, Owner of The Pawn Shop Granville. They dive into Peter’s journey through Vancouver’s hospitality industry, go behind the scenes of The Pawn Shop, and explore his front-row perspective on the evolution of Granville Street. Peter also shares his vision for the future of Granville, the role of BIAs, and what continues to make him believe in the future of downtown Vancouver.

Host Sofia Laratta sits down with Dr. Bonnie Nish, Executive Director of Word Vancouver, a festival celebrating written word and inspiring creativity among readers and writers. Bonnie shares her journey as a writer and explores how storytelling, poetry, and literature can bring people together. They also discuss the evolution of Word Vancouver, Vancouver’s literary scene, and the importance of making literature accessible and a part of downtown.

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!