Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC, BC Dairy and Port of Vancouver.

This week, Mike and Geoff leave no Stone unturned - Todd Stone, that is. The CEO of  the Association for Mineral Exploration (AMEBC) and former BC Liberal/United MLA for Kamloops-South Thompson checks into Hotel Pacifico for a one-year “wellness check” since leaving politics. The three dig into modern mineral exploration in BC, what it’s like lobbying the provincial government from the outside, and his advice for those considering a future in politics.  Stone serves up some nuggets. 

In the Strategy Suite, Geoff and Mike welcome back public affairs consultant and political commentator Maeghan Dewar. Together, they discuss the possibility of a snap election in BC, Premier Eby’s U-turn on his  ad campaign targeting US decision-makers, and what the latest Angus Reid poll reveals about public opinion on reconciliation. Also, they consider whether the Green Party’s new strategy to raise taxes on the rich will lead to electoral fortunes.

🏨🌄 Check into Hotel Pacifico for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC, BCGEU, BC Dairy and Port of Vancouver.

This week, a special guest returns to the hotel – the 37th Premier of British Columbia, Hon. David Eby. Geoff and Mike talk with the Premier about the year that was and what’s changed since the 2024 election. They discuss challenges with the deficit and resourcing in healthcare, how BC is following Ontario’s lead with a new ad campaign targeting President Trump’s tariffs, and what landowners can expect from the government following the Cowichan Decision. 

In the Strategy Suite, Mike and Geoff are joined by hotel regular and Conservative political advisor Kory Teneycke. The trio chew over the Trump Trade War, the impact of Ontario’s ad on both sides of the border, and whether all Conservative parties are doomed to succumb to infighting.

🏨🌄 Check into Hotel Pacifico for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC, and BCGEU.

Pollster and veteran campaigner Dimitri Pantazopoulos joins Mike for a rare 1:1 interview. He shares his perspective based on over three decades in national and provincial politics, including playing key roles in major political victories for Christy Clark, Stephen Harper, Jason Kenney, Andrew Wilkinson, and Doug Ford. Mike and Dimitri discuss how polling has changed over the past few decades, what it will take for the Conservatives to win federally, and what the BC Conservatives must do now to take their near win to a majority government in the next provincial election. 

🏨🌄 Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

🏨🌄 Mike & Kate are joined by Skeena MLA Claire Rattée, a first-term MLA serving as the Conservative Mental Health & Addictions critic.  Rattée discusses her background as someone who battled and overcame addiction, and her journey that led her to northern BC and into municipal, federal, and provincial politics. Discussion includes how the newish BC Conservative caucus is taking shape, her priorities as Mental Health & Addictions critics and how those issues hit home in her own riding, and the impact that LNG development has had on her home community of Kitimat and the region-at-large.  They wrap with a reflection on tattoo art. 

In the Strategy Suite, Mike and Kate welcome political strategist Nicole Brassard who helps put the cuss into discuss as they debate the prime minister’s elbows, the “Grand Bargain” put forward by Energy minister Adrian Dix in a recent Globe & Mail profile, and the new phenomena of partisan party labels being affixed to municipal politics.  

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS. To get the Telus exclusive offer for Hotel Pacifico, call 1-877-274-6408 and use the code: DCC6292.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

🏨🌄 Award-winning CBC Indigenous Affairs Reporter Wawmeesh Hamilton joins Kate and Mike to talk about his career and his indirect path to journalism, those who inspired him along the way, the evolution of Indigenous journalism, and reflections on the debate around the recent Cowichan decision. 

In the strategy suite, Kate and Mike are joined by Richard Zussman from Global News.  The trio do some housekeeping on recent viewer comments, a reckoning with a cat, and onto issues of the day including the Cowichan decision, recent BC fundraising results, the question of what direction West is – Brad West that is, and cap it off with a clipping of the week from a noted journalist-hiker.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Originally recorded Thursday, October 19, 2023 for The Herle Burly podcast.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS.

Welcome to Hotel Pacifico. We’re your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. politicos. Hosts Mike McDonald and Kate Hammer provide insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics. Plus, our weekly segments #StrategySuite with Geoff Meggs + #MiniBar!

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

🏨🌄 Geoff, Kate, and, even, Mike, welcome back the 31st Premier of British Columbia Glen Clark. The hosts and Clark talk about the parallels running a big business and government, the challenge of reducing government costs, whether or not an oil pipeline makes sense, the situation in the forest industry and what’s important to understand about dealing with 🇺🇸. Clark joins the hosts for the mini-bar and offers a contagious toast. 

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

🏨🌄 This week at Hotel Pacifico, we explore the growing political consensus in BC to crack down on gender-based violence. Angela Marie MacDougall, a leader in that battle and head of Battered Women’s Support Services, takes Geoff through the latest developments.  

In the strategy suite, Geoff and Mike talk LNG, softwood lumber, update on the Charleigh Pollock issue, Gavin Dew’s recent substack post, and the Green leadership race.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

🏨🌄 This week, something completely different. As British Columbians head into the annual BC Day weekend, Mike & Geoff invite BC Press Gallery legend and hallway haunter Keith Baldrey (Global News),  and data loving, BC nerd, cult favourite Justin McElroy (CBC) to face off in a BC Day BC Politics Trivia Duel.  As they field questions from Mike & Geoff and vie to be Hotel Pacifico’s 2025 Trivia Champion, the lens-hardened human Hansards choose from five topics: (1) Leaders & Leadership Conventions; (2) General elections and by-elections; (3) Ridings and representation; (4) Floor crossers and party switchers; and (5) Library Stacks – a catch all category.  Check out whether Baldrey or McElroy claims the crown, and hear some stories about what makes BC politics always interesting and sometimes a little weird.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

🏨🌄 It’s ‘Hotel Pacifico Rim’ this week as Mike and Geoff welcome Canada’s Ambassador to Japan Ian McKay.  Ambassador McKay discusses the importance of Canada-Japan trade, especially for BC which sends minerals, lumber, LNG, propane and other goods across the Pacific.  McKay highlights the geopolitical tensions impacting Japan, Canada’s interests in the Indo-Pacific region, the challenge of Japan’s aging population, and the value of trade missions in reinforcing Canada’s and BC’s interests in the region.  

In the Strategy Suite, Anita Zaenker joins Mike and Geoff as Kate is away this week.  The trio chews over public sector negotiations in BC, the previous week’s cabinet shuffle, the ultimate resolution to who is funding medication for Charleigh Pollock, this week’s Council of Federation meeting, and BC’s opportunity as it relates to increased defence spending. 

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

BREAKING NEWS: Join Mike and Geoff for a special "Emergency Cabinet Shuffle Reaction" episode.

🏨🌄 Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

🏨🌄 Mike and Geoff welcome Kim Haakstad, president and CEO of the Council of Forest Industries, to Hotel Pacifico. They discuss the troubling state of the industry, impacts of government policy, low harvest levels, and other factors leading to job losses and mill closures. Haakstad prescribes measures that will help get forestry on the comeback trail. 

In the Strategy Suite, Mike and Geoff are joined by longtime public affairs advisor and media commentator Jess Ketchum. The trio touch on forestry, summer to do list for Premier Eby and John Rustad, crime and addiction, the politics of measles, and how one industry association is leaving no Stone unturned. 

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC.

🏨🌄 North Island-Powell River Conservative MP Aaron Gunn joins Kate, Geoff, and Mike for a wide-ranging discussion that includes his Langford origins, the pathway he followed to become one of BC’s top political influencers in social media, the events that led to him reviving the BC Conservative Party, and his recent election as Member of Parliament.  

In the strategy suite, the hosts return to the issue of BC Ferries buying made-in-China vessels, PM Carney’s embrace of oil pipelines, the Green leadership race taking shape, and the quiet process that is whispering “proportional representation”.  Shhh.  Don’t tell anyone.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC, BCGEU, BC Dairy and Port of Vancouver.

This week, Geoff and Mike welcome Tamara Vrooman, CEO of YVR, Chancellor of SFU, and former Deputy Minister of BC’s Finance Ministry. Together, they discuss YVR’s role in trade, the increasing role of air cargo, and what BC needs to do to attract investment and get on track.    

In the Strategy Suite, Mike and Geoff analyze the latest polling on BC politics, dig into letters of warning from the Mayor of Richmond to landowners about the Cowichan decision, review the mass resignation of ob-gyns in Kamloops, and discuss Vince Ready coming to the rescue in the BCGEU negotiations. There’s also a visit from a surprise guest who is launching a new BC-based publication.

🏨🌄 Check into Hotel Pacifico for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

The sponsored ads contained in the podcast are the expressed views of the sponsor and not those of the publisher.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC, the Health Sciences Association of BC, and the British Columbia School Trustees Association.

🏨🌄 Kate and Mike interview First Nations leader and president of Nanwakolas Council Dallas Smith. Smith discusses the progress of reconciliation, Bill 14 and 15 and the importance of being “in the canoe”, the Great Bear Rainforest, and his work as an Indigenous advocate for salmon aquaculture. He closes with a reflection on Canada Day, honouring Kwakwaka’wakw artist Curtis Wilson who designed the iconic Canadian Indigenous flag. 

In the Strategy Suite, Mike and Kate are joined by Duncan Wlodarczak, head of the federal Liberal wing in BC. The trio discuss the first LNG cargo leaving BC, Chrystia Freeland’s intervention on BC Ferries’ China-built vessels backed by federal financing, and is Mark Carney a progressive conservative? Geoff is away on the high seas this week. 

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC, the Health Sciences Association of BC, and the British Columbia School Trustees Association.

🏨🌄 Kate, Mike, and Geoff were joined by Vancouver Kingsway MLA and Minister of Energy & Climate Solutions Adrian Dix for a long-form interview. The trio explored with Dix, a former NDP leader and 20-year veteran in the Legislature, the evolution of the NDP, how it emerged from a crushing defeat in 2001, where the party is at today, and the shifting non-NDP coalition. Dix discussed in general terms the challenges faced in health care and his agenda in the Energy ministry, including electricity, natural gas, and TMX. Dix concluded with some ‘light’ summertime reading recommendations.  

In the shortened strategy suite,  Kate, Mike, and Geoff touch on the Surrey extortions, the Air India tragedy, and BC Conservative drama including a “Clipping of the Week”. 

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC and the Health Sciences Association of BC.

🏨🌄 Surrey’s Mayor Brenda Locke joins Kate, Geoff, and Mike to talk about meeting the needs of her growing city, specifically discussing gaps in health care delivery and school facilities. Locke also touches on policing in Surrey and recent extortions targeting Surrey businesses. The hosts ask the mayor on the future of regional governance, Surrey’s relationship with Vancouver, and Surrey as a key battleground in recent federal and provincial elections.  

In the Strategy Suite, the hosts discuss BC Ferries building ships in China, the creation of the One Party, the mysterious Green leadership race, and a new entrant in the Vancouver mayoralty race.  They cap off the episode with a callout to frequent Hotel Pacifico guests.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC and the Health Sciences Association of BC.

🏨🌄 Geoff and Mike welcome Sean Holman to Hotel Pacifico.  Holman, a former member of the BC press gallery and pioneer in online journalism, is now a professor in Environmental and Climate Journalism at UVIC and leading the Climate Disaster Project.  He discusses the upcoming documentary drama, Eyes of the Beast.  The hosts and Holman discuss the 2021 heat dome that killed hundreds in BC, the Lytton fire that destroyed the village, and how media and impacted residents are responding to climate-related disasters.  

In the Strategy Suite, Geoff and Mike welcome Northern Beat’s Fran Yanor, who sits in for Kate.  The trio discuss pipeline battles, LNG, the government’s announcement of involuntary care beds and how Fentanyl crisis is impacting rural BC, and how the Conservatives fared in the recent session.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC. 

🏨🌄 Mike and Geoff welcome BC Conservative MLA Harman Bhangu (Langley-Abbotsford) to Hotel Pacifico.  The first-term MLA discusses how the BC Conservative team is taking shape, his motivations for seeking office, and his priorities as Transportation critic.  

Kate joins Strategy Suite from YVR, fresh off a six-hour flight. The trio discuss the First Ministers Meeting and whether Premier Eby should have ditched his Asia trade mission and been in the room with PM Carney and fellow premiers. They also turn their attention to the now-concluded legislative sitting and the recent report from the CEO of Elections BC on the 2024 vote.  In the mini bar, the panic for PG hotel rooms in January surfaces.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC. 

🏨🌄 Kate, Mike and Geoff welcome Stewart Muir, Founder and CEO of Resource Works, to the Hotel for a discussion on natural resource development and the policy pivots taking place with the new Mark Carney administration and David Eby government.

In the strategy suite, the hosts discuss King Charles III and whether the federal throne speech was royally good politics, the ongoing saga of Bill 15, former Premier Mike Harcourt’s vision to reduce the number of Metro Vancouver’s municipalities, and a clipping of the week on the drug crisis in downtown Victoria. Follow our hosts into the mini-bar for more.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC. 

🏨🌄 Kate, Mike and Geoff welcome Jatinder Rai, CEO of Response Advertising, to Hotel Pacifico to discuss BC’s growing diverse communities and how political and media strategies play out differently, including why the Conservatives have increased support provincially and federally among Chinese and South Asian voters.

In the strategy suite, the co-hosts discuss BC’s clout in the Carney cabinet, Gregor Robertson’s comments on housing supply, the Eby-Begg-Sturko flap, and two-timing MLAs.

Join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs for insights and interviews covering the latest in B.C. politics.

Thank you for joining us on #HotelPacifico. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Watch conversations from Hotel Pacifico via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.