Let's Talk Housing: A Podcast by BC Housing

BC Housing
  • 4.8 (12)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

British Columbia is in the grips of a housing affordability crisis decades in the making. The Province has an ambitious plan to tackle the crisis through the largest investment in housing affordability in B.C.’s history. Tasked with building tens of thousands of homes in hundreds of communities is BC Housing, the agency responsible for developing, managing, and administering a wide range of subsidized housing and homelessness services across the province. BC Housing doesn’t do this alone, they work with hundreds of partners. In this podcast, you’ll hear from those tackling the crisis head on.

  1. Meeting BC’s new Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs

    JAN 22

    Meeting BC’s new Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs

    In this episode of Let’s Talk Housing, we sit down with B.C.’s new Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, Christine Boyle. As she steps into this critical role, we learn about how Minister Boyle is settling in, what inspires her leadership, and how her experiences have shaped her path forward. We’ll discuss her early priorities, explore her vision for tackling British Columbia’s housing challenges, and what her hopes are for the vibrant communities across B.C. From increasing supply and protecting affordability to working alongside local governments, our conversation with Minister Boyle focuses on what British Columbians can expect next, and how collaboration across sectors will shape the future of housing in our province. Guests Hon. Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Learn More Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters (SAFER): https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/rental-assistance-programs/SAFER Rental Assistance Program (RAP): https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/rental-assistance-programs/RAP Digitally Accelerated Standardized Housing: https://www.acceleratedhousing.ca/ BC Rent Bank:  https://bcrentbank.ca/ Attainable Housing Initiative Heather Lands https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/strata-housing/attainable-housing-initiative-heather-lands

    21 min
  2. Building Homes Faster: How DASH Is Changing the Way We Build in B.C.

    JAN 8

    Building Homes Faster: How DASH Is Changing the Way We Build in B.C.

    Season 6 Episode 3 In this episode of Let’s Talk Housing, we explore how B.C. is using new tools and standardized designs to build homes faster and more affordably. DASH (Digitally Accelerated Standardized Housing) is a new online platform that helps developers and non-profits choose pre-approved building designs, use made-in-B.C. materials, and speed up the permitting and construction process.  We talk about why faster housing delivery is so important right now, how standardized designs and prefabricated parts help cut costs, and how DASH supports local jobs and sustainable, low-carbon building. Our guests explain how the platform works, who it’s designed for, and what this could mean for communities across the province.  This episode highlights how innovation and collaboration can help create more homes for people—quickly, efficiently, and in a way that supports B.C.’s future. Guests Esther de Vos, Executive Director, Research, BC HousingChris Hill, CPA CMAWhat is Digitally Accelerated Standardized Housing (DASH)? Digital tools and permit-ready designs to help build multi-family homes faster, easier, and more cost-effectively. They’re ready to use and designed for architects, designers, and housing providers.  DASH works by using standardized designs, prefabricated parts, and a coordinated supply chain. This helps lower costs, save time, and build more homes faster. Projects are delivered more quickly and consistently, without sacrificing quality or design. DASH also helps make better use of public and private funding. DASH is a collaborative tool. We invite builders, designers, and other partners to use the platform. Together, we can help create housing that is quality, sustainable, and ready when communities need it. Learn More Digitally Accelerated Standardized Housing: https://www.acceleratedhousing.ca/ #podcast

    34 min
  3. Supporting Tenants: the Power of Support Programs and Services 

    2025-11-27

    Supporting Tenants: the Power of Support Programs and Services 

    Season 6 Episode 2 In this episode, host Mita speaks with BC Housing’s own Shaleen Pillay-Naidu and Amber Bell to explore how tenant support programs help make housing more than just a place to live. By featuring voices from the Tenant Engagement team, the conversation showcases how programs like community kitchens peer-led initiatives and the Tenant Activity Grant (TAG) helps create safe, supportive environments where families and youth can thrive. These programs demonstrate that housing is more than shelter — it’s a foundation for personal growth, empowerment, and community connection.  The episode reinforces BC Housing’s commitment to holistic, people-centered approaches that support tenant well-being, strengthen local partnerships, and build inclusive, thriving communities across B.C. It directly aligns with the organization’s broader goals of advancing equity, resilience, and social connection in the housing ecosystem. Guests:Shaleen Pillay-Naidu, Manager, Tenant Engagement, Housing & Health ServicesAmber Bell, Tenant Engagement Worker, Housing & Health Services The Tenant Activity Grant (TAG) is a program that provides activity grants for tenants living in BC Housing directly-managed properties. If you are a tenant of a BC Housing building, you can apply for funding for projects, activities, workshops and parties at your housing site. You can contact your Tenant Support worker for more information and how to apply Learn more: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/tenant-programs-resources/community-programs-services/tenant-activity-grant #podcast #home #housing

    31 min
  4. Indigenous Housing that Supports Families in Victoria

    2025-10-30

    Indigenous Housing that Supports Families in Victoria

    Season 6 Episode 1   In this episode, host Mita speaks with Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi, Executive Director of the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness (ACEH). Together, they explore how ACEH is transforming housing across Vancouver Island through culturally supportive, wraparound, and community-driven approaches that strengthen connection, wellness, and belonging.  Fran shares how programs like the Culturally Aligned Integrated Support (CAIS) — providing 200 rental supplements and seven streams of wraparound care — are improving housing stability across the island. The conversation also spotlights Sacred Cradle House / Xexe Pahlatsis’lelum (ZEH-zeh pah-HAHL-tsis-LEH-lum), a new home guided by the voices of mothers, matriarchs, and Elders, blending housing, culture, and care for Indigenous families. Through stories of partnership and community leadership, this episode highlights how housing can be a pathway to healing and hope for generations to come.  Guests: Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi, Director, Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness  About: The Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness Society (ACEH) is an Indigenous-led non-profit on Vancouver Island dedicated to ending Indigenous homelessness through culturally supportive housing, wraparound care, and system change. Guided by the voices of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, ACEH’s “Big House” model blends housing with land-based healing, Elder guidance, and harm reduction rooted in culture. Their programs support individuals, families, and youth through community-driven approaches that restore belonging and wellness. ACEH also advocates for policies that address systemic barriers and advance reconciliation in housing across British Columbia. Learn more: https://acehsociety.com #podcast #housing #indigenous

    40 min
  5. Rental Assistance That Works: RAP and SAFER Programs

    2025-08-12

    Rental Assistance That Works: RAP and SAFER Programs

    *This episode was filmed during Minister Kahlon’s tenure as Minister of Housing.   In this episode of Let’s Talk Housing, we take a closer look at two programs that are helping British Columbians stay housed—the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) and the Rental Assistance Program (RAP).   These impactful supports provide monthly rent subsidies to seniors and low-income families, easing financial pressure and creating more room for stability, health, and dignity. We’ll explore how these programs work, who they’re designed for, and why they matter, especially in today’s housing landscape. We’ll also highlight the recent changes to the programs that allow more people to qualify for these benefits, as well as increased subsidies to keep up with inflation.   At a time when affordability remains a major concern, this episode highlights how targeted government support can create meaningful, measurable change—helping people not just stay afloat but move forward.    Guests: ·       Ravi Kahlon, Former Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, British Columbia ·       Alison Silgardo, CEO, Seniors Services Society of B.C.    About: To learn more about BC Housing’s RAP and SAFER programs, visit: Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters (SAFER) | BC Housing RAP/SAFER Clients: Annual Reapplication and Updates | BC Housing   Learn more about the Seniors Services Society of B.C. here: Supporting vulnerable adults 60 years+ | Seniors Services Society #podcast #home

    22 min
  6. Small Town, Big Impact: Filling the Seniors Housing Gap in Fort St. James

    2025-07-22

    Small Town, Big Impact: Filling the Seniors Housing Gap in Fort St. James

    How do you create affordable, independent living in a small community? In this episode, we visit Fort St. James, where the new Neghuni Ghunli-un housing facility is providing 36 suites for older adults (55+). Developed in partnership with Nak'azdli Whut'en, this project is the result of a collaboration that reflects the Nation’s leadership in creating culturally safe, community-driven housing solutions. The Nak'azdli Whut'en Nation’s involvement also ensures this project meets the unique needs of its people. Our guests discuss the challenges of rural housing, the importance of helping seniors age in place, and how keeping elders connected strengthens families, especially in small communities. They also explore why expanding housing efforts into smaller communities is crucial and why focusing beyond the Lower Mainland matters for the future. Guests: Paula Wylie, Executive Director, Connexus Community Resources Kris Neilsen, Family Services and Housing Program Manager, Connexus Community Resources Learn more about Connexus Community Resources here: https://connexus.ca/ #podcast

    36 min
  7. Opening Doors to Accessibility

    2025-07-08

    Opening Doors to Accessibility

    In this episode, we explore how organizations are redefining their approach to accessibility, broadening their lens and criteria to meet evolving needs. We’ll examine how accessibility has expanded to include not just physical aspects but also support for intellectual and cognitive needs, reflecting a more inclusive approach.  Guests: Brad McCannell, VP of Access and Inclusion, Rick Hansen Foundation Doug Tennant, CEO, UNITI Julianne (Jewels) Cressman, Community Advocate  About the Rick Hansen Foundation: In 1985, Rick Hansen set out on the Man In Motion World Tour; a 26-month, 34 country, 40,000 km wheelchair marathon. The Tour raised $26 million and changed the way people with disabilities were perceived. The Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF), established in 1988, is part of its legacy. For over three decades, RHF has removed barriers, changed attitudes and funded spinal cord injury research and care. Today, roughly one in four Canadians identify as having a disability, and that number is growing as our population ages. Globally, over 1.3 billion adults identify as having a disability. We’re working on breaking down one of the most fundamental barriers that people with disabilities still face: physical barriers in the places where we live, work, learn and play. Learn more: https://www.rickhansen.com/ About UNITI: UNITI offers quality services to people with developmental disabilities and their support networks.  We also provide affordable and inclusive rental housing in Surrey.  Through community engagement, we increase awareness about inclusion, advocacy and disability rights.  We firmly believe that together we’re stronger. Learn more: https://uniti4all.com/ #podcast #home

    35 min
  8. Navigating Housing Challenges: Finding Safety and Belonging for 2SLGBTQIA+ People

    2025-06-24

    Navigating Housing Challenges: Finding Safety and Belonging for 2SLGBTQIA+ People

    In this episode, we explore unique issues and solutions experienced specifically by individuals of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, as they have navigated/continue to navigate the housing system. We will listen to the lived experience of 2-Spirit and Transgender folks, highlighting the uniqueness of their stories and challenges. Finally, a housing site that will be operating with queer mandates, will be highlighted to discuss the factors that our guests have seen first-hand as positive considerations at sites that support 2-Spirit, Trans and Queer communities.   Guest host Jennifer Breakspear, Associate Vice President, Service Delivery and Regional Operations, BC Housing Guests: Ryan De Bruyn, Resident Support Worker, McLaren Housing Society of BC Sekani Dakelth, Indigenous Facilitator and Consultant, First Nations Health Authority and City of Vancouver Samantha Dray, Technology Programs Coordinator, BC Housing

    36 min
See All (55)

Trailers

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

British Columbia is in the grips of a housing affordability crisis decades in the making. The Province has an ambitious plan to tackle the crisis through the largest investment in housing affordability in B.C.’s history. Tasked with building tens of thousands of homes in hundreds of communities is BC Housing, the agency responsible for developing, managing, and administering a wide range of subsidized housing and homelessness services across the province. BC Housing doesn’t do this alone, they work with hundreds of partners. In this podcast, you’ll hear from those tackling the crisis head on.

Information