Urbanism Vancouver

Uytae Lee from the YouTube channel About Here, joins Helen Lui to chat about storytelling in urban planning, emphasizing the need for effective communication strategies to drive public engagement. They also advocate for diverse voices in advocating for inclusive urban environments.About Here: https://www.youtube.com/@AboutHere Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui interviews Fern Hahn, a transit advocate and urban planning student, who shares experiences that shaped their perspective on public transit. Fern discusses advocating for better transit and their interest in transit network design.Next, Helen speaks with Matthew and Emma from UBC CAPACity, focusing on engaging university students in urban planning discussions. They discuss the club's events, ranging from urban studies info nights to town hall debates with city council candidates. Matthew and Emma emphasize the importance of involving youth in urban planning decisions and fostering inclusivity across different faculties.References: Fern K Hahn: https://fernkhahn.com/UBC CAPACity: https://amscampusbase.ubc.ca/capacity/home/ Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

The conversation continues with Houssam Elokda from Happy Cities, as Helen Lui explores the impact of the built environment on communities, emphasizing the importance of creating livable and sustainable cities. They discuss the subjective nature of happiness and well-being in urban settings, also highlighting the significance of social connections, community, and meaningful interactions in fostering happiness.References:Hey Neighbour Collective Happy Homes project: https://www.heyneighbourcollective.ca/resources/ Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Density is a hotly debated topic in urban centres. Is it good? Is it bad? Does it make us more isolated, more lonely, or can it improve our happiness?Helen Lui speaks with Houssam Elokda, from Happy Cities. Their research explores the connection between urban design and happiness, striving to enhance the quality of life in cities through sustainable long-term happiness. By prioritizing people's experiences and emotions, they aim to implement urban interventions that are not only impactful but also tailored to the unique needs and values of each community.Houssam delves into the significance of studying the relationship between happiness and urban design to determine the crucial elements for thriving in urban environments. An insightful study discussed in the podcast reveals that density does not necessarily correlate with lower happiness or well-being once income is taken into account. The conversation sheds light on how different housing forms like apartments or single-family homes have no significant impact on well-being when income is factored in.References: The World Happiness Report: https://worldhappiness.report/about/Lu’ma housing - Heatherlands project: https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/courier-archive/news/temporary-modular-housing-approved-for-heather-lands-site-3082546#google_vignetteVGH + Happy Cities study: My Wellbeing, My Community: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/65c7e5d8ed8ae44c1709ae60/t/65f9ba97331b333639689619/1710865062869/My-home-my-neighbourhood-wellbeing-study-111723.pdf5 D’s of walkability: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359066510_Rethinking_walkability_and_developing_a_conceptual_definition_of_active_living_environments_to_guide_research_and_practice Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui speaks with Mark Boardman and Alyssa Sacal from Minivillage, a Vancouver-based company fostering social connections within neighbourhoods. Mark discusses transforming neighbours into friends, while Alyssa emphasizes combating loneliness. The conversation explores authentic community bonds, the impact of physical environments on social connections, and practical tips for fostering relationships. Mark and Alyssa advocate for intentional community-building efforts and envision a future with healthier, happier, and more interconnected communities.References:The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and CommunityDunbar's numberRobert Waldinger's Ted TalkWhy Are We So Lonely, by Vox40% of Canadians feel lonely all or some of the timeThe Säg hej! (say hello!) campaign, Luleå, SwedenResearch organizations mentioned during the podcast: Happy Cities, Hey Neighbour Collective, Tamarack Institute, Genwell ProjectNetflix, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui is joined by architects Amit Price Patel and Jill Robertson from DIALOG, to discuss the design of great public spaces. They share insights on the political power of design, the intersection of science and art in shaping communities, and the significance of community engagement in creating inclusive spaces. The conversation emphasizes inclusivity, considering diverse perspectives, and the importance of moving at the speed of trust when engaging with communities. Amit and Jill highlight the impact of inclusive design on community well-being, stressing the role of public spaces in fostering connections and shared experiences. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui is joined by Urban Sketch Artist Nishant Jain, also known as "the Sneaky Artist" to discuss the concept of 'Third Spaces'—the places between home and work where social bonds are forged and community enriched. We explore how these spaces, from parks to cafes, are not just physical locations but also platforms for cultural expression and social interaction. We also discuss the transformation of third spaces and their role in shaping modern urban life. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Reece Martin from the YouTube channel RMTransit joins Helen Lui to discuss the evolving landscape of urban mobility and public transit. Explore the cutting-edge developments and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of our cities. Reece, who grew up in the Lower Mainland, and now a resident of Toronto, shares his expert insights on the challenges urban planners face and the potential transformative impacts of new technologies on public transportation systems.RM Transit: https://www.youtube.com/@RMTransitMovement: https://transitmovement.ca/ Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui explores the critical need for safer, more sustainable urban transportation with Lucy Maloney, a fervent cycling advocate who leads the organization "Love The Lane" and is also a HUB Cycling member. Lucy discusses the ongoing efforts to promote safer streets in Vancouver, addressing the broader challenges of shifting public policy. She highlights the changes in infrastructure that can significantly reduce preventable risks and enhance urban living, and discusses opportunities to encourage more active transportation. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui discusses the interconnectedness of urban development, climate initiatives, and public safety with guest, environmental scientist Rhiannon Fox. Highlighting the benefits of dense, less car-dependent cities, the discussion emphasizes community involvement and personal action as catalysts for change. Rhiannon shares how individual efforts can influence broader societal shifts towards sustainable living and safer, more inclusive urban environments. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Host Helen Lui welcomes Ravi Kahlon, MLA for North Delta and British Columbia’s Housing Minister, to discuss transformative approaches to the housing crisis. Minister Kallon shares his political journey and the personal experiences fueling his commitment to driving positive change. They delve into the shift towards embracing density, the introduction of innovative policies under Kahlon's leadership, and the vision for more liveable, equitable, and sustainable cities.References: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/ Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

We delve into the pressing issues of housing and city building, revisiting discussions with guests Michelle Cyca and Khelsilem, who have underlined the need for immediate action. We explored root causes of the housing crisis, such as the historical supply limitations as well as city planning that excluded many from accessing housing. Michelle and Khelsilem also addressed attitudes around apartment living, how the public talks and engages about housing, and the importance of embracing diverse housing options.The episode also examines policy changes and the challenges in meeting housing targets, emphasizing the need to rethink city building strategies. We highlight recent changes in British Columbia, including new housing policies like proposed legislation to encourage density near rapid transit, a ban on short-term rentals, and the Vancouver Special 2.0 initiative for efficient multiplex development. The episode also addresses the role of municipalities in implementing these changes and the federal government's efforts to incentivize new housing.Furthermore, we discuss how the various topics discussed are interwoven into the complexities of our built environment, and the importance of embracing a vision for future urban development that is vibrant, inclusive, and liveable.Finally, we express gratitude to our listeners and guests, noting the podcast's evolution and future plans to expand its reach.Links mentioned in the episode:Michelle Cyca - "The End of Homeownership"KhelsilemMark Boardman, MinivillageAlbert Huang, Terra Housing"BC’s new transit-oriented development plan is actually a win for all of us" - Georgia Straight"We don’t need to further subsidize wealthy homeowners in Metro Vancouver" - Georgia StraightBryn Davidson, LanefabMovementDenis AgarVision Zero VancouverBC municipal housing targetsBC Transit Oriented DevelopmentBC New Standardized DesignBC Multi-unit homes across BCBC addressing short term rentalsCity of Vancouver MultiplexesCMHC, 5.8 million homes by 2030  Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Michelle Cyca, a seasoned freelance journalist, joins Helen Lui and delves into the complexities of the housing market, touching upon themes like home ownership and the evolving notion of housing wealth. The episode features a candid reflection on the soaring housing prices in Vancouver, discussing the impact on families and the generational wealth disparities it creates. Key topics include the financialization of housing, governmental shifts in housing policy, and the growing divide between homeowners and renters. The conversation critically examines homeownership as a symbol of privilege and wealth, challenging the fairness of the housing system and underscoring the need for policy reform. This episode offers a deep dive into the struggles faced by renters and the societal biases that favor homeowners, highlighting the urgency for significant changes in housing policies and funding.Links mentioned in the episode:Michelle CycaMichelle's Article: “The End of Homeownership”  Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

This episode explores the importance of including First Nations and Indigenous communities in urban development conversations. Khelsilem, the chairperson of the Squamish Nation Council, shares their insights on land use planning, housing development, including the Sen̓áḵw development, and partnerships with First Nations. The episode explores the unique considerations in First Nations-led initiatives and the need for better involvement in planning. Also touching on the concept of livability and building community.Links mentioned in the episode:“Golden Gates”, Conor Dougherty   Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Host Helen Lui continues the conversation with Denis Agar, they unpack the dynamic relationship between housing and public transportation. They delve into the critical role of urban density in shaping transit service needs and discuss the intricate political maneuvers influencing rail network expansions. The conversation also highlights the influential power of grassroots movements in propelling improvements to transit systems.Links mentioned in the episode:“Where should new homes go? A map of renter density.” (https://denisagar.com/?p=9)“Travel and the Built Environmental - Synthesis” by Reid Ewing and Robert Cervero  Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

We explore the impact of zoning on housing and communities. Denis Agar is our guest and we discuss the need for more equitable zoning laws and the importance of considering renter density when adding new housing. Join us as we delve into the potential benefits of increased density near transit stations and ponder the ethical justification for maintaining low-density neighbourhoods during a housing crisis. Links mentioned in the episode: “Where should new homes go? A map of renter density.” (https://denisagar.com/?p=9)  Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Albert Huang, a seasoned expert in affordable housing development is the guest on this episode of Urbanism Vancouver. He unravels the multifaceted issues surrounding Vancouver's housing affordability crisis, and the complexities of defining "affordable," influenced by varying income levels, government programs, and housing entities. The episode dives deep into the intricacies of constructing affordable homes, from the selection of appropriate sites to the challenges presented by zoning, regulations, and the lack of available land. As well as touching upon the financial implications linked to design, permits, and fees, debating the potential benefits of standardized housing designs. The episode culminates by addressing the predominant challenges in modern affordable housing projects, offering insights into an essential urban development conundrum.Links mentioned in the episode:Abundant Housing Vancouver: https://www.abundanthousingvancouver.com/ Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

In this episode of Urbanism Vancouver, Helen Lui and Aaron Johnson discuss their motivations for starting the podcast, and their backgrounds in urbanism and broadcasting. They explain their goal of providing accessible information about housing and development and shedding light on the complexities of the process. They hope to inspire curiosity and action from their listeners and encourage them to get involved in shaping our built environment.They also address the misconception about the role of the federal government in addressing the housing crisis, emphasizing that local municipalities have the power to shape neighbourhoods through land use and design regulations. They highlight the lack of awareness about local elected officials and the decision-making processes in cities.Later in the episode, Helen is joined by Michelle Scarr who shares her experience with public engagement in housing discourse. Michelle explains her motivations for getting involved in local government and her frustrations with the public hearing process, particularly the dominance of a vocal minority and the lack of representation for those who would benefit from new housing.The conversation then focuses on the need for increased engagement in local politics and the impact of municipal decisions on individuals' lives. Michelle emphasizes the importance of being aware of the issues and having a say in municipal affairs, including voting and getting involved with local parties and volunteering.  Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Urbanism Vancouver explores the built environment of Vancouver, Canada - how we got to where we are, and what our history tells us about how we look forward to the future. We share insights not only from industry experts, but also from passionate advocates, and residents like you. With each episode, we'll look at different components that shape our urban experience in Vancouver, and we'll discuss how we can make cities more vibrant, affordable, and liveable places. With our shared experiences, industry insight and knowledge, perhaps you’ll learn and even be inspired to be more involved in impacting positive change in your community, even if you don’t call Vancouver “home.” Helen Lui is a seasoned housing and development professional with a fervour for abundant, and affordable housing. With over a decade in both non-market and market developments, her passion lies in sculpting cities that are equitable, sustainable, and livable. She ardently champions civic reforms, targeting exclusionary policies to pave the way for inclusive, equitable urban development. This podcast series is an independently funded project by both The Host, Helen Lui and Producer, Aaron Johnson. We acknowledge that this podcast is recorded and produced on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging, and recognize the enduring connection they have to this land. We strive to have our conversations contribute towards reconciliation and work towards sustainability and equity for all the custodians of the lands. Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles: SpencerWebsite: UrbanismVancouver.comIf you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver