08/29/2026
Episode 20 is live! We hope you've been enjoying the Poonicast so far — if you missed any past episodes, be sure to catch up on our website, https://www.poonigroup.com/poonicast New West's finest are here, and they brought a debate champion.
In this episode, Gary Pooni sits down with Lisa Spitale, outgoing CAO of the City of New Westminster after 33 remarkable years, and Gerardo Corro, Executive Director of Tourism New Westminster, plus special guest Luella, Grade 8 provincial debate champion.
Lisa reflects on transforming a depressed downtown into a thriving waterfront. Gerardo shares what it means to bring New West's tourism ambitions to a seat at the big kids' table. Together they dig into the immigrant roots that shaped them, the hidden gems most people have never heard of, and why New West has a way of becoming home.
🎧 Tune in wherever you get your podcasts, or catch up on our website:
https://www.poonigroup.com/poonicast
This podcast was recorded in December 2025.
About the Poonicast: Storytellers and Changemakers
Good people doing good things in the city The Poonicast, co-hosted by urban planning legend Gary Pooni, is a series of conversations that celebrates folks who are driving positive change in Vancouver. We’re shining a spotlight on good news and good people in the city and introducing you to some of our favourite local leaders. From actors and athletes to philanthropists and musicians, these hometown heroes will motivate and inspire you to make a difference in your own community.
Look for new episodes of the Poonicast every couple of weeks on Spotify (we’ll be sending reminders
and links to your inbox, don’t worry!), as we catch up with all of our favourite Vancouverites.