This week, What She Said is zeroing in on Vancouver and a group of women whose passion for their work left a lasting impact on me. In August I was invited on a “Bees, Trees, and Booze” themed press trip by the Fairmont Waterfront, expecting to enjoy a few days of eco-friendly tourism. What I didn’t expect was how much these women’s stories would stick with me. From Julia Common, who made me want to drop everything and start my own bee colony, to Inez Cook, whose resilience and success with Salmon n’ Bannock had me leaving her restaurant with more than just a full stomach—these women are transforming their fields and making Vancouver a hub for sustainability and cultural preservation.
What struck me most was how each of these Vancouver women in sustainability is making a tangible difference, whether through environmental initiatives, cultural preservation, or community building. Their work is a testament to the power of local action in creating global change. On today’s show, I’ll be sharing their incredible stories—stories that will not only inspire you but also highlight the importance of sustainability in everything from food to tourism. Here’s what you can expect:
Luxury and Sustainability at the Fairmont Waterfront
Our journey begins at the Fairmont Waterfront, where Kristyna Vogel shares how the hotel seamlessly blends luxury with sustainability. From its rooftop bee hives to ocean-friendly menus, this iconic hotel leads the way in eco-conscious tourism, all while providing a first-class experience.
Indigenous Heritage with Talaysay Tours
Next, we meet Candace Campo, co-founder of Talasay Tours, who is on a mission to bring Indigenous stories to life. Candace’s tours offer a profound connection to the cultural heritage of Vancouver, enriching visitors’ understanding of the land’s history and the deep roots of its Indigenous people.
Eco-Friendly Spirits with Wayward Distillery
Sustainability isn’t limited to tourism—it also drives the local economy. Sara Unrau of Wayward Distillery shares how their eco-friendly approach to crafting spirits supports local agriculture and the vital bee populations that make it all possible.
Bee Advocacy with Julia Common
Speaking of bees, Julia Common from Bees Actually is a lifelong advocate for these essential pollinators. Julia’s partnership with the Fairmont Waterfront highlights the crucial role bees play in our ecosystem and how businesses can actively support biodiversity.
Preserving Indigenous Cuisine with Inez Cook
Lastly, we meet Inez Cook, owner of Salmon n’ Bannock, Vancouver’s only Indigenous-owned and operated restaurant. Inez’s journey from being part of the Sixties Scoop to running a celebrated Indigenous restaurant is a story of resilience, passion, and the preservation of culture through cuisine.
These remarkable women are redefining leadership in sustainability and culture, proving that change starts at the community level. Join me as we explore their incredible stories and the inspiring work they’re doing to create a brighter future for us all, then start planning your trip to Vancouver!
