https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bowen-island-podcast--5647219
Bowen Island, or Nex̱wlélex̱wm, is tucked away in Howe Sound and forms part of the scenic "Sea to Sky" corridor that stretches from West Vancouver through Lions Bay, Squamish, Whistler, and into the Pemberton Valley. This region is home to the Squamish (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw), Lil'wat (Lil̓wat7úl), or N'Quatqua (N'k̓wátkwa̱), and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, whose rich cultural heritage continues to shape and enrich the area's vibrant community.

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, this region also boasts the UNESCO-designated Átl'ka7tsem/Howe Sound Biosphere Region, highlighting its global significance.

The Bowen Island Podcast started by engaging with all of the candidates in the 2022 municipal elections on Bowen Island. In recent episodes, we've expanded our focus to include former mayors, councillors, and other key community figures. Our last initiative was to connect with candidates from the Sea to Sky riding to get their various perspectives, and presently, we're engaged in Bowen's Official Community Plan.

Please subscribe/follow to learn when the next podcast is available.]]>enSociety & CultureDon Shaferhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/dd65c5a1e0346e2868184ea0e74db45b.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bowen-island-podcast--5647219Wed, 09 Sep 2026 20:49:31 +0000Don ShaferDon Shaferdon@theconversationlab.caWelcome to the Bowen Island Podcast. Bowen Island, or Nex̱wlélex̱wm, is tucked away in Howe Sound and forms part of the scenic "Sea to Sky" corridor that stretches from West Vancouver through Lions Bay, Squamish, Whistler, and into the Pemberton...
Bowen Island, or Nex̱wlélex̱wm, is tucked away in Howe Sound and forms part of the scenic "Sea to Sky" corridor that stretches from West Vancouver through Lions Bay, Squamish, Whistler, and into the Pemberton Valley. This region is home to the Squamish (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw), Lil'wat (Lil̓wat7úl), or N'Quatqua (N'k̓wátkwa̱), and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, whose rich cultural heritage continues to shape and enrich the area's vibrant community.

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, this region also boasts the UNESCO-designated Átl'ka7tsem/Howe Sound Biosphere Region, highlighting its global significance.

The Bowen Island Podcast started by engaging with all of the candidates in the 2022 municipal elections on Bowen Island. In recent episodes, we've expanded our focus to include former mayors, councillors, and other key community figures. Our last initiative was to connect with candidates from the Sea to Sky riding to get their various perspectives, and presently, we're engaged in Bowen's Official Community Plan.

Please subscribe/follow to learn when the next podcast is available.]]>false2171fe96-d62a-58bb-8111-7d5a252e2b44episodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/caroline-parker-election-2026--75028833Caroline Parker has called Bowen Island home for 17 years and has been an active participant in community life throughout much of that time. With a background in law and education, Caroline brings both professional experience and a long familiarity with Bowen to her decision to run for Council.

In this conversation, we talk about many of the issues facing the island: housing and affordability, water and infrastructure, development and the OCP, the environment, emergency preparedness, governance, and how a small municipality decides what it can realistically afford and accomplish.

But Caroline also brings the conversation back to community. She speaks warmly about the tradespeople, volunteers and others who quietly get things done on Bowen, and makes a point of acknowledging the work and service of the current Council.

It's a conversation about the challenges ahead, but also about appreciating the people who have helped build and sustain the community we already have.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75028833Wed, 09 Sep 2026 18:12:52 +0000Don ShaferCaroline Parker has called Bowen Island home for 17 years and has been an active participant in community life throughout much of that time. With a background in law and education, Caroline brings both professional experience and a long familiarity...Caroline Parker has called Bowen Island home for 17 years and has been an active participant in community life throughout much of that time. With a background in law and education, Caroline brings both professional experience and a long familiarity with Bowen to her decision to run for Council.

In this conversation, we talk about many of the issues facing the island: housing and affordability, water and infrastructure, development and the OCP, the environment, emergency preparedness, governance, and how a small municipality decides what it can realistically afford and accomplish.

But Caroline also brings the conversation back to community. She speaks warmly about the tradespeople, volunteers and others who quietly get things done on Bowen, and makes a point of acknowledging the work and service of the current Council.

It's a conversation about the challenges ahead, but also about appreciating the people who have helped build and sustain the community we already have.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1081bowenisland,britishcolumbia,carolineparker,donshafer,municipalelection,thebowenislandpodcastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/constance-barnes-election-2026--74987651Constance Barnes is asking Islanders to elect her to Municipal Council.

In this conversation, Constance talks about what initially brought her to Bowen, her work with the Orchard Treatment Centre, and the experience she gained as an elected Vancouver Park Board commissioner and Chair.

She reflects on community, public service and leadership—and also raises concerns about Bowen’s emergency planning and whether the island is adequately prepared for a serious emergency.

Constance also speaks warmly about the profound influence of her father, Emery Barnes: a social worker, longtime B.C. MLA and passionate advocate for human rights and people living in poverty, who became the first Black Speaker of a legislature in Canada.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74987651Tue, 08 Sep 2026 01:32:34 +0000Don ShaferSeventeen years after first coming to Bowen Island, Constance Barnes is asking Islanders to elect her to Municipal Council. In this conversation, Constance talks about what initially brought her to Bowen, her work with the Orchard Treatment Centre,...Constance Barnes is asking Islanders to elect her to Municipal Council.

In this conversation, Constance talks about what initially brought her to Bowen, her work with the Orchard Treatment Centre, and the experience she gained as an elected Vancouver Park Board commissioner and Chair.

She reflects on community, public service and leadership—and also raises concerns about Bowen’s emergency planning and whether the island is adequately prepared for a serious emergency.

Constance also speaks warmly about the profound influence of her father, Emery Barnes: a social worker, longtime B.C. MLA and passionate advocate for human rights and people living in poverty, who became the first Black Speaker of a legislature in Canada.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1578bowenisland,britishcolumbia,constancebarnes,donshafer,municipalelection,thebowenislandpodcastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tim-hausch-election-2026--74947518Tim Hausch.

We talk about whar he loves about Bowen and what has drawn him into local politics, the issues he believes the island needs to confront, and how he thinks about growth, affordability, the environment, governance and Bowen's future.

There are no gotcha moments here. This is an opportunity to spend a little time with the people asking to represent us — to hear who they are, what matters to them and how they think.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74947518Mon, 07 Sep 2026 00:56:07 +0000Don ShaferIn this episode of the Bowen Island Podcast, I sit down with Tim Hausch. We talk about whar he loves about Bowen and what has drawn him into local politics, the issues he believes the island needs to confront, and how he thinks about growth,...Tim Hausch.

We talk about whar he loves about Bowen and what has drawn him into local politics, the issues he believes the island needs to confront, and how he thinks about growth, affordability, the environment, governance and Bowen's future.

There are no gotcha moments here. This is an opportunity to spend a little time with the people asking to represent us — to hear who they are, what matters to them and how they think.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>704bowenisland,britishcolumbia,donshafer,municipalelection,thebowenislandpodcast,timhauschfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/patrick-michael-reakes-election-2026--74840543Patrick Reakes joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about Bowen Island, why he’s running, and some of the challenges he believes the next Council will need to confront.

At the top of his list is Bowen’s financial position and his concern about the municipal budget deficit, rising costs and whether the way we’re doing things is sustainable.

We also talk about water, infrastructure, wildfire preparedness, emergency response and another kind of sustainability: burnout. 

It’s a conversation about affordability, resilience and capacity — and Patrick’s thoughts about what Bowen needs to pay attention to as it plans for the next four years

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74840543Thu, 03 Sep 2026 00:28:03 +0000Don ShaferPatrick Reakes joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about Bowen Island, why he’s running, and some of the challenges he believes the next Council will need to confront. At the top of his list is Bowen’s financial position and his concern about...Patrick Reakes joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about Bowen Island, why he’s running, and some of the challenges he believes the next Council will need to confront.

At the top of his list is Bowen’s financial position and his concern about the municipal budget deficit, rising costs and whether the way we’re doing things is sustainable.

We also talk about water, infrastructure, wildfire preparedness, emergency response and another kind of sustainability: burnout. 

It’s a conversation about affordability, resilience and capacity — and Patrick’s thoughts about what Bowen needs to pay attention to as it plans for the next four years

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1775bowenisland,britishcolumbia,donshafer,municipalelections,patrickreakes,thebowenislandpodcastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/keith-davidson-election-2026--74815591
We talk about the challenges facing Bowen, how a small municipality decides what it can realistically afford and deliver, and the importance of making thoughtful decisions about the island’s future.

Keith also reflects on technology and how local government can keep pace with a changing world, while still protecting the character and sense of community that make Bowen special.

At its heart, this is a conversation about community service — what Keith believes he can contribute, and why, at this point in his life, he wants to give something back to an island he clearly loves.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74815591Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:19:39 +0000Don ShaferIn this episode, Keith Davidson talks about his love for Bowen Island, his long-standing commitment to community service, and why he’s decided to put his name forward in this election. We talk about the challenges facing Bowen, how a small...
We talk about the challenges facing Bowen, how a small municipality decides what it can realistically afford and deliver, and the importance of making thoughtful decisions about the island’s future.

Keith also reflects on technology and how local government can keep pace with a changing world, while still protecting the character and sense of community that make Bowen special.

At its heart, this is a conversation about community service — what Keith believes he can contribute, and why, at this point in his life, he wants to give something back to an island he clearly loves.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1538bowenisland,bowenislandpodcast,britishcolumbia,donshafer,keithdavidson,municipalelectionsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/councillor-alex-jurgensen-election-2026--74759936This episode is with Alex Jurgensen. We talk about his first term on council, why he's running again, and what he believes Bowen needs to focus on over the next four years.

Our conversation ranges from housing, land use and the OCP to affordability, accessibility, transparency and inclusion, the environment, Islands Trust and the challenges of making decisions in a small community where people don't always agree.

It's also a chance to get beyond the campaign material and hear more about Alex himself — what shaped him, what he's learned from public service, and what he hopes to contribute if Bowen Islanders give him another term.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74759936Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:23:56 +0000Don ShaferThis episode is with Alex Jurgensen. We talk about his first term on council, why he's running again, and what he believes Bowen needs to focus on over the next four years. Our conversation ranges from housing, land use and the OCP to affordability,...This episode is with Alex Jurgensen. We talk about his first term on council, why he's running again, and what he believes Bowen needs to focus on over the next four years.

Our conversation ranges from housing, land use and the OCP to affordability, accessibility, transparency and inclusion, the environment, Islands Trust and the challenges of making decisions in a small community where people don't always agree.

It's also a chance to get beyond the campaign material and hear more about Alex himself — what shaped him, what he's learned from public service, and what he hopes to contribute if Bowen Islanders give him another term.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1872alexjuergensen,bowenisland,britishcolumbiamunicipa,donshafer,municipalelections,thebowenislandpodcastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mayor-andrew-leonard-election-2026--74740959Four years ago, Andrew Leonard was elected Mayor of Bowen Island. Now, as another municipal election approaches, we sat down to talk about what those four years have taught him — about Bowen, about local government, and about being mayor.

It has been a consequential term. Bowen has wrestled with a campground proposal, housing and affordability, ferry congestion, aging infrastructure, water supply, environmental protection and reconciliation, while undertaking a major update of the Official Community Plan that will help shape how — and where — the island grows.

We talk about what Andrew is proud of, what he might do differently, and what remains unfinished. We also explore some of the harder questions facing the next Council: How much can Bowen realistically take on? How do we balance what people want with what we can afford and deliver? What should our relationship with the Islands Trust look like? What should guide our decisions about growth when questions about water and infrastructure remain? What does reconciliation require of a small municipality? And how do seven independently elected people work together when they don't always agree?

This is a conversation about the choices Bowen Island will be making over the next four years — and the kind of community we want to become.


Note: This episode is transcribed using Musixmatch, an AI platform with some limited editing capability.


The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74740959Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:12:56 +0000Don ShaferFour years ago, Andrew Leonard was elected Mayor of Bowen Island. Now, as another municipal election approaches, we sat down to talk about what those four years have taught him — about Bowen, about local government, and about being mayor. It has been...Four years ago, Andrew Leonard was elected Mayor of Bowen Island. Now, as another municipal election approaches, we sat down to talk about what those four years have taught him — about Bowen, about local government, and about being mayor.

It has been a consequential term. Bowen has wrestled with a campground proposal, housing and affordability, ferry congestion, aging infrastructure, water supply, environmental protection and reconciliation, while undertaking a major update of the Official Community Plan that will help shape how — and where — the island grows.

We talk about what Andrew is proud of, what he might do differently, and what remains unfinished. We also explore some of the harder questions facing the next Council: How much can Bowen realistically take on? How do we balance what people want with what we can afford and deliver? What should our relationship with the Islands Trust look like? What should guide our decisions about growth when questions about water and infrastructure remain? What does reconciliation require of a small municipality? And how do seven independently elected people work together when they don't always agree?

This is a conversation about the choices Bowen Island will be making over the next four years — and the kind of community we want to become.


Note: This episode is transcribed using Musixmatch, an AI platform with some limited editing capability.


The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>29322026municipalelections,andrewleonard,bowenisland,donshafer,mayorandrewleonard,municipalelections,thebowenislandpodcastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/councillor-and-islands-trust-trustee-sue-ellen-fast-election-2026--74738279
In this conversation, we talk about her years in public service, what she believes she has learned along the way, the challenges facing Bowen, and why she is asking voters for another four years.

We also talk about the environment, growth, the Islands Trust, reconciliation, and what good local governance looks like when people don’t always agree.

This is part of the Bowen Island Podcast’s 2026 Conversations with the Candidates series.





The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74738279Fri, 28 Aug 2026 18:36:14 +0000Don ShaferSue Ellen Fast has called Bowen Island home since 1992 and has served on Municipal Council and as an Islands Trust trustee since 2014. In this conversation, we talk about her years in public service, what she believes she has learned along the way,...
In this conversation, we talk about her years in public service, what she believes she has learned along the way, the challenges facing Bowen, and why she is asking voters for another four years.

We also talk about the environment, growth, the Islands Trust, reconciliation, and what good local governance looks like when people don’t always agree.

This is part of the Bowen Island Podcast’s 2026 Conversations with the Candidates series.





The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1406bowenisland,bowenislandmunicipality,donshafer,election2026,sueellenfastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bowen-s-islands-future-understanding-the-draft-official-community-plan--72136977Bowen’s Future: Understanding the Draft Official Community Plan

If you’ve ever wondered whether your children will be able to live on Bowen, worried about water shortages, wildfire risk, ferry traffic, housing diversity, environmental protection, or simply what kind of island future generations will inherit… then you already have a stake in this conversation.

In this episode of The Bowen Island Podcast, we talk with  Mayor Andrew Leonard, Daniel Martin (Manager of Planning and Development), and James Crandles (OCP Steering Committee co-chair) to unpack Bowen Island’s proposed Official Community Plan and the current phase of public engagement.

Together they explore:

• What an OCP is — and what it isn’t
• Why Bowen’s OCP is being updated now
• The guiding frameworks shaping the draft
• Housing diversity, infrastructure 
• Biodiversity, stewardship and climate resilience
• Transportation, community vitality and circular economy principles
• Land use maps, conservation areas and development permit areas
• How residents can participate meaningfully during this phase of engagement

This conversation is about helping all of us understand the choices, trade-offs and opportunities reflected in the draft — and to encourage your input. 

You can learn more at bowenislandmunicipality.ca

Thanks to everyone involved
Council Liaisons: Alex Jurgensen and Alison Morse
BIM Staff: Sarah Baxter, Stef Shortt, Daniel Martin, Xerxes Au   
Community members:  Co-Chairs: James Crandles, David McCullum  
Steering Committee Frits de Vries, Kiersten Enemark, Adam Lougheed, Melanie Mason, Betty Morton, Channa Pelpola, Glen Shkurhan    

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72136977Sun, 24 May 2026 18:36:56 +0000Don ShaferBowen’s Future: Understanding the Draft Official Community Plan If you’ve ever wondered whether your children will be able to live on Bowen, worried about water shortages, wildfire risk, ferry traffic, housing diversity, environmental protection, or...Bowen’s Future: Understanding the Draft Official Community Plan

If you’ve ever wondered whether your children will be able to live on Bowen, worried about water shortages, wildfire risk, ferry traffic, housing diversity, environmental protection, or simply what kind of island future generations will inherit… then you already have a stake in this conversation.

In this episode of The Bowen Island Podcast, we talk with  Mayor Andrew Leonard, Daniel Martin (Manager of Planning and Development), and James Crandles (OCP Steering Committee co-chair) to unpack Bowen Island’s proposed Official Community Plan and the current phase of public engagement.

Together they explore:

• What an OCP is — and what it isn’t
• Why Bowen’s OCP is being updated now
• The guiding frameworks shaping the draft
• Housing diversity, infrastructure 
• Biodiversity, stewardship and climate resilience
• Transportation, community vitality and circular economy principles
• Land use maps, conservation areas and development permit areas
• How residents can participate meaningfully during this phase of engagement

This conversation is about helping all of us understand the choices, trade-offs and opportunities reflected in the draft — and to encourage your input. 

You can learn more at bowenislandmunicipality.ca

Thanks to everyone involved
Council Liaisons: Alex Jurgensen and Alison Morse
BIM Staff: Sarah Baxter, Stef Shortt, Daniel Martin, Xerxes Au   
Community members:  Co-Chairs: James Crandles, David McCullum  
Steering Committee Frits de Vries, Kiersten Enemark, Adam Lougheed, Melanie Mason, Betty Morton, Channa Pelpola, Glen Shkurhan    

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>2559andrewleonard,bim,bowenisland,conservation,danielmartin,donshafer,islandstrust,jamescrandles,ocp,officalcommunityplanfalse41fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mayor-andrew-leonard-we-can-t-pull-up-the-draw-bridge-or-sink-the-ferry--58508440
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58508440Wed, 31 Jan 2024 02:00:53 +0000Don ShaferJust over a year ago, we elected a new municipal council and in this podcast, Mayor Leonard talks about the challenges and opportunities on Bowen Island. Our conversation covers a range of topics including the challenges faced by the municipality,...
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>2658activetransportation,andrewleonard,bcferries,bowenisland,bowenislandpodcast,caperogercurtis,communityplanning,donshafer,mayorofbowenisland,metrovancouver,theconversationlab,translinkfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/holly-graff-richard-smith-the-bowen-island-community-foundation--53813545
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53813545Thu, 11 May 2023 00:01:06 +0000Don ShaferHolly Graff and Richard Smith join us in this episode to talk about the work of the Bowen Island Community Foundation and some of the things that got us here, some great ideas from our neighbors that benefit everyone on the island, and that it's time...
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1727bowenisland,communityfoundations,hollygraff,richardsmith,thebowenislandfoundation,vitalconversationsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/peter-frinton-fifty-years-on-part-2--51771092This is part two of our conversation about life and politics on a small island.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51771092Thu, 03 Nov 2022 02:04:44 +0000Don ShaferPeter Frinton has lived on Bowen with his partner Carol since 1972. He became active politically in the early 90s as a GVRD alternate and then as chair of the APC. He served on Bowen Council for 4 terms and was also an Islands Trust trustee, Metro...This is part two of our conversation about life and politics on a small island.

The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>3904bowenisland,democracy,donshafer,governance,peterfrinton,thebowenislandpodcastfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/peter-frinton-fifty-years-on-part-1--51648588
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51648588Fri, 21 Oct 2022 23:47:40 +0000Don ShaferPeter Frinton has lived on Bowen with his partner Carol since 1972. He became active politically in the early 90s as a GVRD alternate and then as chair of the APC. He served on Bowen Council for 4 terms and was also an Islands Trust trustee, Metro...
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>2471bowenisland,caperogercurtis,donshafer,governance,metrovancouver,peterfrinton,thebowenislandpodcast,theislandstrustfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bob-turner-a-bowen-island-perspective--51277566
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51277566Sun, 16 Oct 2022 21:10:00 +0000Don ShaferThis is a conversation with Bob Turner. A former Mayor on Bowen Island, conservationist, and filmmaker. I reached out to Bob to help provide context to the many issues we face on this small island, and to understand the politics of environmentalism.
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>3078bobturner,bowenisland,bowenislandmunicipality,conservation,donshafer,metrovancouver,thebowenislandpodcast,theislandstrustfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/andrew-leonard-mayoral-candidate--51205707
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51205707Sat, 15 Oct 2022 02:04:00 +0000Don ShaferMayoral Candidate Andrew Leonard shares his vision for Bowen Island in the 2022 Municipal Election. The picture was updated when it was announced that he had won.
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1988andrewleonard,bowenisland,bowenislandmunicpalelection,donshafer,thebowenislandpodcastfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/judi-gedye-for-bowen-island-council-the-islands-trust--51248299
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51248299Thu, 13 Oct 2022 13:18:00 +0000Don ShaferJudi Gedye joins us to talk about life on Bowen Island and why she wants to run for municipal council and the Islands Trust.
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1764bowenisland,bowenislandelection,donshafer,islandstrust,judigedey,thebowenislandpodcastfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alison-morse-for-bowen-island-council--51446501
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51446501Sun, 02 Oct 2022 21:24:21 +0000Don ShaferI was delighted to catch up with Alison Morse to talk about her vision for Bowen Island and what being on the municipal council has been like over the years.
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1520affordablehousing,alisonmorse,bim,bowenisland,caperogercurtis,donshafer,islandstrust,thebowenislandpodcastfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sue-ellen-fast-for-bowen-island-council-islands-trust--51432521
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51432521Fri, 30 Sep 2022 22:40:03 +0000Don ShaferSue Ellen Fast talks about her love of nature, her vision for Bowen Island and a little about the Islands Trust
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1771bim,bowenislandcouncil,caperogercurtis,donshafer,islandstrust,municipalelection,reconciliation,sueellenfast,thebowenislandpodcastfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/john-saunders-for-bowen-island-council--51410345
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51410345Wed, 28 Sep 2022 20:37:41 +0000Don ShaferWe caught up with John Saunders to talk about hockey, how he discovered Bowen Island and why he wants to be a municipal councilor.
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1801bim,bowenisland,bowenislandmunicipality,caperogercurtis,donshafer,islandstrust,johnsaunders,thebowenislandpodcastfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tim-wake-for-bowen-island-council-the-islands-trust--51302038
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51302038Wed, 28 Sep 2022 06:56:00 +0000Don ShaferTim Wake is running for council and talks about the issues and his vision for Bowen Island
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1128bim,bowenisland,bowenislandmunicipalelection,donshafer,thebowenislandpodcast,timwakefalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alex-jurgensen-bowen-island-council--51398342
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51398342Tue, 27 Sep 2022 18:37:59 +0000Don ShaferAlex Jurgensen is running for Bowen Island Council and in this episode, he talks about those things that are important to him.
The Bowen Island Podcast is produced in a small cabin in the woods on Bowen Island, on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw — the Squamish Nation — with gratitude for their stewardship of these lands and waters over countless generations.

If you’d like to explore more of my work on conversation, community and polarization, you can find me on other broadcast/podcast platforms, including The Conversation Lab, Everything Podcasts.com, Central City Foundations Hope Dialogue, or on Substack. 

Thanks for listening]]>1159alexjurgensen,bic,bowenisland,bowenislandmunicipalelection,caperogercurtis,donshafer,thebowenislandpodcastfalse1full