Poonicast.
Poonicast.
Podcast Description
The Poonicast, co-hosted by urban planning myth Gary Pooni, is a series of conversations that celebrates folks who are driving positive change in Greater Vancouver. We’re shining a spotlight on good people doing good things in the city and introducing you to some of our favourite locals. From actors and athletes to philanthropists and musicians, these hometown heroes will motivate and inspire you to make a difference in your own community.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast features themes such as community building, sports, philanthropy, and personal journeys. Notable episodes include discussions with influential figures like Fred Lee on his philanthropic efforts and Victor Montagliani on leadership in sports, reflecting on the impact of local heroes and the importance of authenticity in community engagement.
The Poonicast, co-hosted by urban planning myth Gary Pooni, is a series of conversations that celebrates folks who are driving positive change in Greater Vancouver. We’re shining a spotlight on good people doing good things in the city and introducing you to some of our favourite locals. From actors and athletes to philanthropists and musicians, these hometown heroes will motivate and inspire you to make a difference in your own community.
In this episode of the Poonicast, Gary Pooni and co-host Sabine sit down with Mayor Mike Hurley of Burnaby, a man whose journey from a tiny council home in rural Northern Ireland to city hall is anything but ordinary.
Mike opens up about growing up one of eight kids during the Troubles, a £7 guitar his mom borrowed money to buy, and touring Europe and North America as a teenage musician before landing in Vancouver. He shares what it was like to witness apartheid firsthand in South Africa at 17, and how the experiences that shaped him: carpentry, firefighting, leading BC firefighters to build a burn survivors facility all eventually led him to public service.
It's a kind, honest conversation about humble beginnings, the power of community, and why the best leaders are the ones who never forget where they came from.
This podcast was recorded in June 2026
Disclaimer
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