Poonicast.

Episode 8 of the Poonicast features one of the most influential voices in global football—Victor Montagliani, President of Concacaf and Vice President of FIFA.

Co-hosted by Whitecaps captain Russell Teibert alongside Gary Pooni, this episode dives into the roots of leadership, the power of sport to build community, and Canada’s growing role on the world stage.

Victor reflects on his upbringing in East Vancouver, the lessons he learned working at his family’s gas station, and how those early experiences shaped his approach to leadership. He shares his journey from local volunteer to global football executive, offering insight into the values that have guided him along the way.

Tune in to hear exclusive stories about meeting football legends like Maradona and Pelé, and get a behind-the-scenes look at what the 2026 World Cup means for Canada—and for Vancouver as a host city.

This podcast was originally recorded on April 8, 2025.

Episode 7 of the Poonicast continues our conversation with former Whitecaps head coach Vanni Sartini and longtime captain Russell Teibert.

In Part 2, we go deeper into the personal philosophies and experiences that shaped their journeys—from growing up around the game to navigating public criticism and life after professional soccer.

Vanni opens up about his coaching roots in Italy and the values that guided him through his time in Vancouver, while Russell reflects on leadership, resilience, and finding purpose beyond the pitch.

Tune in for a thoughtful and entertaining continuation that blends humour, honesty, and heartfelt reflection from two of Vancouver’s most respected voices in sport.

This podcast was originally recorded on April 9, 2025.

Episode 7 Part 1 of the Poonicast features two iconic figures from Vancouver’s soccer community—former Whitecaps head coach Vanni Sartini and longtime team captain Russell Teibert.

Co-hosted by Russell himself alongside Gary Pooni, this episode explores what it means to lead through sport, the legacy they built together, and the values that define football culture in Vancouver.

Vanni shares stories from his rise through the coaching ranks and the unforgettable playoff run that reignited the Whitecaps. Russell reflects on the challenges of injury, retirement, and how his relationship with Vanni shaped his final seasons.

Tune in for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation on leadership, resilience, and what it means to represent your city on and off the pitch.

This podcast was originally recorded on April 9, 2025.

Episode 6 of the Poonicast features two inspiring figures from UBC Athletics & Recreation—Managing Director Kavie Toor and UBC Thunderbirds hockey star Chanreet Bassi.

Co-hosted by Pooni Group’s Director of Communications, Janine Verreault, this episode shines a spotlight on how sports enrich all aspects of our lives, from leadership and community-building to personal growth and resilience.

Kavie shares insights from nearly 25 years at UBC, overseeing 26 varsity teams and leading the Thunderbirds to an impressive 28 national championships. Meanwhile, Chanreet reflects on her journey from Kelowna to becoming a standout student-athlete, winning multiple awards and making an impact both on and off the ice.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the power of sport, teamwork and building a lasting legacy at BC’s largest university.

This podcast was originally recorded on March 5, 2025.‬

Episode 5 of the Poonicast features two of our favourite community-builders from Western Canada’s largest independent magazine publisher.

Co-hosted by philanthropist and interior designer Natalie Miller, tune in as we catch up with Canada Wide Media’s CEO Ryan Benn and Editorial Director/VP of content Anicka Quin to chat about how local magazines are vital to creating community and connection in our city. We explore the positive impact of Canada Wide’s many publications and annual events, including Vancouver magazine’s Restaurant Awards and Power 50, and Western Living’s Designers of the Year.

This podcast was originally recorded on October 7, 2024.‬

We were lucky enough to have two incredible guests on the Poonicast back in June. ‬On this episode, we share laughs with Vancouver Whitecaps former goalkeeper David Ousted and the team’s kitman Marty McDermott.

As we look forward to the Whitecaps 2025 season opener in February, we look back at the highs of 2024—the home-opener breaking attendance records and the club celebrating its 50th anniversary, and some lows—Messi being a no-show for the highly anticipated Inter Miami game last year.

Sitting in the co-host seat with Gary on this edition is soccer enthusiast and Canucks’ Team Ambassador Kirk McLean. Tune in now to hear the kitman air all the dirty laundry!

This podcast was originally recorded on June 12, 2024.‬

We have a VERY special holiday edition of the Poonicast for you. In the studio with us is probably the most famous man in the world—the one, the only—the real deal—Santa Claus. ’Tis the season!

We’re super excited to share our conversation with the talented (and stunning) actor Kandyse‬‭ McClure. Sitting in the co-host‬ seat with Gary on this edition is Pooni Group Marketings’s Director of Communications Janine Verreault.‬

Kandyse was born in South Africa and spent many years travelling back and forth before eventually putting down roots in Greater Vancouver where she now calls New West home. On this podcast, Kandyse shares stories about how she got her start in Hollywood North, the 20-year anniversary of‬‭ Battlestar Galactica‬‭, and her current role on Netflix’s hugely successful TV series,‬‭ Virgin River‬‭. 

Kandyse also reveals which celeb she’s been mistaken for, what she most often‬ gets recognized for, and what she believes is her worst performance‬‭—you‬‭ won’t‬‭ want to miss this!‬

This podcast was originally recorded on May 8, 2024.‬

We recorded our very first episode of the Poonicast at the end of the Canucks’ 2024 playoff run and now—with the 2024-2025 season in full swing—we couldn’t be more thrilled to share our conversation with team legend and former goalie, Kirk McLean. In the co-host seat for this edition is Pooni Group Foundation’s Executive Director Dina Milani.

Tune in as we chat about the 1994 and 2024 playoffs, as well as Kirk’s love for Vancouver. Captain Kirk also reveals his hockey highs and lows—including his weirdest injury, his first NHL salary, and behind-the-scenes stories about his incredible pro sports career—you won’t want to miss this!

This podcast was recorded on May 6, 2024.