We dive deep into the stories, perspectives, and voices that matter. Whether you're looking for insightful interviews or a fresh take on current trends, this is the place for meaningful connection.Don’t miss an episode: ✨ Watch now to stay informed and inspired. 🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to join our growing community!

Venezuela is more than just the headlines." To launch our new season, I am privileged to welcome Meriely Arias to the podcast. While the capture of Nicolas Maduro has the world talking, Meriely born in Puerto Cabello, joins me to share the story of a people who remain joyful and resilient despite decades of turmoil.From the "production line" of the traditional Christmas Hallaca to the struggle of families sending money home, Meriely gives us an intimate look at the Venezuelan experience. We also talk about her journey to Canada, the vibrant Venezuelan community right here in British Columbia, and how we can support local businesses—from Port Moody's hidden gems to the best tequeños in the Lower Mainland.https://vcsbc.ca/en/donate/https://www.instagram.com/vcsbc_/

Vancouver City Councillor Rebecca Bligh joins Rachel to discuss her recent announcement that she is running for Mayor. Rebecca shares the personal journey that shapes her political vision, from immigrating from New Zealand to her experiences as a young single mom at 21. She discusses the need for "calm, competent, collaborative" leadership to overcome division at City Hall.

It's not "housing first," it's "housing with the proper resources". This teaser delves into why access to addictions and mental health counseling is critical for a housing strategy to succeed, and what British Columbia can learn from other regions that are getting it right.

A Discussion about Involuntary Treatment in British Columbia- Guy Felicella speaks from experience and support expertise.International Speaker, Advocate, and Consultant, Guy Felicella joins me to discuss BC's recent announcement around involuntary treatment and how to best support those living on Vancouver streets. Guy's valuable expertise comes from 30 years of lived experience, from working within the support services field, and from helping families with a loved one who is struggling with substance use dependency. Go listen to the prevoius episode with to know more about his story.https://youtu.be/9lMWSfnxPnw?si=9NSZZ1p9tsmL7I5h

In this episode, Rachel sits down with the incredibly talented pastry chef and owner of Mann & Co Bake Shop Surrey BC, Jujhar Mann. From his early days watching "Cake Boss" to becoming a Netflix baking champion on "Is It Cake," Jujhar shares his inspiring journey of overcoming cultural expectations and pursuing his passion. He opens up about the challenges he faced, the unwavering support from his family, and the moments that motivated him to prove doubters wrong. Jujhar also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the pressures of competing on television and offers valuable advice for anyone daring to follow their dreams. https://mannandcobakeshop.com/https://www.gnfb. https://makeawish.ca/https://discoversurreybc.com/surrey-signature-experiences/

What motivates a Netflix baking champion after the competition is over?In this sneak peek of the next Rachel Thexton Connects episode, Netflix cake contest winner Jujhar Mann reveals what truly drives him. For him, the ultimate reward is simply "putting a smile on one's face.Full episode coming soon.

My uneasy stomach, and what I know to be true about substance use and mental health, led me to talk about the BC Premier's recent announcement that beds are being allocated for involuntary treatment in BC. I feel that it's wrong for many reasons, but mostly, I feel like this has more to do with the public's discomfort with seeing people unwell and doing drugs on Vancouver streets, than on truly supporting those who will be "helped" against their will.

Are you desperate to support your child's wellbeing as everything around us is after their attention and we are facing a mental health crisis? Dr. Vanessa Lapointe provides incredible insight and advice, empowering you as a loving parent.Psychologist, Parenting Educator, Author, and International Speaker, Dr. Vanessa Lapointe joins me to discuss children, families, challenges we face in 2025, and where we may consider focusing to improve the health and happiness of our children, and ourselves as parents!https://tinyurl.com/24phrrr3 (Click tickets movie Seen) https://drvanessalapointe.com/https://thextonpr.com/

As host of the podcast, Rachel Thexton shares more about herself, speaking to a topic that is rarely discussed publicly- faith.