Hey, Downtown Van!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This week, host Sofia Laratta chats with FUNK Coffee’s Kurtis Warren and Luis Cervera about how the brand ignited a new wave of creativity in Vancouver’s specialty coffee scene. They break down the meaning behind their rebrand “It’s not just coffee, it’s a vibe.” and how that ethos shapes everything from sourcing to seasonal creations. Learn how the energy of their Dunsmuir Street café and their community-first approach make FUNK truly one of a kind.

Join host Sofia Laratta and Managing Partner at hcma, Darryl Condon, whose work champions the power of thoughtful design to foster belonging and strengthen community. Together, they explore why public space is essential to the health and identity of cities like Vancouver, and how inclusive design can help create a more vibrant, resilient, and connected urban future.

Join host Sofia Laratta in conversation with Chef Rob Feenie, Executive Chef of Le Crocodile by Rob Feenie. From his early training in Europe to leading some of Vancouver’s most celebrated kitchens, Rob reflects on the experiences that shaped his culinary journey. Tune in as he shares insights on creativity, mentorship, and the full-circle moment of returning to the restaurant where it all began.