Chamber Chats SeriesAs part of The Chamber's commitment to keeping businesses up-to-date with information that can help them stay successful, Chamber CEO Bruce Williams is engaging in a series of conversations with leading subject experts.
Special thanks to our series sponsor: Island Savings
Chamber Chats premieres on CHEK TV at 8 a.m. every Wednesday, and is available on demand though the CHEK+ app.
To view the Chamber Chats archive, click here.
ICA helps people new to Canada build a life in Greater Victoria
Immigrants to Greater Victoria encounter opportunities but also challenges as they settle into life in their new home. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Intercultural Association CEO Shelly D’Mello about the work the ICA does providing services and programs.
Regional spotlight shines brightest on City of Victoria
Greater Victoria is comprised of nine First Nations and 13 municipal governments with the City of Victoria garnering the most attention. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto about safety in the streets, taxes and people who don’t like bike lanes.
Our Place on frontline of supporting safe communities
We have seen a steady increase in people living on the street and, in many cases, their mental illness challenges and drug induced behavior are on full public display. Our Place Society supports those facing homelessness and addictions through a number of programs and facilities. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams hears about the care being provided with Our Place CEO Julian Daly.
How immigration powers Canada's economic growthWe know immigration to Canada is essential to growing our economy and the workforce needed to maintain that growth. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with immigration consultants Luciane Luthi and Chris Brown about the procedures and process involved in immigrating to Canada.
Co-op programs great for finding talented employees
Almost half of The Chamber's employees started with after working Co-op terms through UVic or Camosun Co-op programs great for finding talented employeesCollege. Could this productive pathway also support your business? Find out in the Chamber Chat as CEO Bruce Williams speaks with past Chamber co-op students and the presidents of Camosun and UVic.
How traditional media evolves to continue serving our community
The way we gather information and news has been evolving for decades. Where are we now in a highly digital world, and how has conventional media adapted? In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams talks about the state of journalism with Times Colonist Editor and Publisher Dave Obee.
How SD61 helps prepare students for future careers
Students are engaging with career options at an earlier than many people realize. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with SD61 Superintendent Deb Whitten and SD61 Vice Principal of Pathways and Partnerships, Career Education Lindsay Johnson to learn how schools are helping young people prepare for their working life.
Coast Guard working hard to keep our ocean safe
Marine Search and Rescue, spill response, navigational support and marine vessel support are all part of the function of the Canadian Coast Guard. You’ve seen their ships, now hear the whole story of what they do. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Coast Guard Assistant Commissioner Derek Moss.
Expert tips on managing finances after a disruptive 2023
Last year was a disruptive year for us all with financial matters impacted by inflation and higher interest rates. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams gets an assessment of the year past and a look ahead to how we can best manage our finances both personal and business. Bruce speaks with financial experts Travis Koivula, with Island Savings, and Chamber Board Chair Kris Wirk, a partner with the accounting firm Dusanj and Wirk.
160 Years of The Chamber in 22 minutes
The Chamber has been the voice of business in Greater Victoria for 160 years and has been celebrating this milestone throughout 2023 through initiatives such as the 1863 web project. CEO Bruce Williams speaks with The Chamber's project lead Jim Zeeben and research and co-op student Lian Woo about their work chronicling our region's economic past as well as the diverse history of communities connected by commerce on Vancouver Island.
Financial literacy vital in this economy
Are you financially literate? Do you fully understand the implications of inflation and higher interest rates? None of us are untouched by these factors. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams discusses financial literacy tips with Luke Biles of MNP and Travis Koivula of Island Savings.
Tips to help with seasonal stress and mental health over the holidays
The holiday season is stressful for so many people in so many ways. Inflation, interest rates and uncertainty are compounding mental health too. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams talks about managing our seasonal stress with Canadian Mental Health Association CEO Jonny Morris.
How philanthropy enhances health care
Despite challenges we experience within our Healthcare system Canada is still a world leader in providing care to sick people. That care is not all paid for by your tax dollars. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams learns about how philanthropy enhances our hospital care from Avery Brohman of the Victoria Hospitals Foundation.
Update on Royal BC Museum's plan to rebuild
The Royal BC Museum has been under scrutiny since a controversial announcement last year about its planned temporary closure and rebuild. In this Chamber Chat with CEO Bruce Williams, you will learn the status of those plans and RBCM’s ongoing operations with RBCM Board Chair Leslie Brown and Acting CEO Tracy Drake.
The state of construction industry in Greater Victoria
Construction, building and design are robust across our region and have been for many years. What is trending? What is the impact of high interest rates and inflation? Aand is it better to build or renovate? These issues and more are discussed in this Chamber Chat as CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Ann Squires Ferguson of Western Design and Build along with Dave Stephens of Lida Construction.
Vital Signs Report looks at community's health
How often do you see a questionable email or text message and wonder if it’s a scam? Cyber security is a growing concern and cyber crime is a growing business. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams gets good advice about on line engagement from Rachel Guinto of Island Savings.
How to spot a cyber scam in today's business environment
How often do you see a questionable email or text message and wonder if it’s a scam? Cyber security is a growing concern and cyber crime is a growing business. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams gets good advice about on line engagement from Rachel Guinto of Island Savings.
Victoria celebrates Hockey Day in Canada as Inner Harbour offers spectacular backdrop
The eyes of Canada will be on Victoria in January 2024 when we host the national Sportsnet broadcast of Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams gets the details of who, when and where from the organizers of this epic hockey event.
How the auto industry is recovering after pandemic disruption
The automobile industry and local dealerships were hit hard early in the pandemic, which affected inventory, parts and service and prices. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams hears about the current situation in the vehicle sector from Amy Jones of Galaxy Motors and Mandu Goebel of the Campus Auto Group.
Addressing racism by understanding cultural diversity
The Kulea Culture Society works to engage us all in a cultural understanding of the diversity that makes our region stronger. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Kulea team members about the Colourful Business Expo, their Kitchen and Culture cooking classes, their programs to address racism and more..
Tech business cohort composes our region's largest economic sector
Our reliance on technology has been advancing rapidly over the past few decades. And our adoption of new technology accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Greater Victoria, the technology industry is the largest sector in our economy. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Dan Gunn, CEO of the Victoria Innovation, Advanced Technology and Entrepreneur Council (VIATEC) about our region's vibrant technology cohort.
Housing the cornerstone for employee retention
Housing supply and affordability is a huge issue in Greater Victoria. In addition to private companies and governments, a non-profit agency is building affordable housing across the region. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Virginia Holden, Executive Director of the Greater Victoria Housing Society, about housing supply, income-related rent and types of housing available.
Powering our province's future with BC Hydro
As BC continues to electrify our transportation, heating and cooling systems — and much more of our lives — how stable and robust is our power grid ? In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams has a conversation with BC Hydro CEO Chris O’Reilly about the grid and other energy questions.
BC Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the exceptional
The BC Sports Hall of Fame recognizes many familiar names and team, but also includes some lesser known though equally exceptional people. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Hall of Fame representatives about those inductees and an upcoming Hall of Fame event in Victoria.
Economic growth depends on new Canadians
Canada’s population growth has been based on immigration, and that growth will continue as we welcome more new Canadians every year. In this Chamber Chat, Chamber CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Luis G. Aguirre, Executive Director of the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS), about their work helping immigrants and refugees establish new lives in Greater Victoria.
Think local, drink local: supporting craft beverages
We all know how important it is to support our family, neighbours and friends by shopping local. And when you think local also drink local. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Kristen Needham of Sea Cider and Jim Lister with Phillips Brewing and Soda Works about what their products mean to our local economy.
Leading the way in building sustainable communities
The demand for housing across Canada is surging. As it does, some innovative, inclusive and environmentally advanced building is happening in our region. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Ed Geric of Mike Geric Construction — one of the leaders in building sustainable communities.
Evolving media to achieve success in the digital age
The conventional media world of TV, radio and print has been significant challenges with the growth of online and on-demand media. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams (a former media manager and host) speaks with CHEK Media Group CEO Rob Germain about how CHEK has overcome those challenges to achieve success.
Mental health supports in the classroom
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams continues with the series of conversations about managing mental illness and mental health, especially in workspaces. Today we speak about school and classroom supports with Andrea Paquette of the Stigma Free Society
Talking about workplace mental health
Our Chamber Chats focused on mental illness and mental health continue as CEO Bruce Williams learns how employees can best manage clients and customers experiencing mental health challenges.
Managing mental health in the workplace
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams continues with conversations about managing mental health and mental illness. This week he speaks with WorkSafeBC about healthy workplaces.
Air Canada flying high after post-pandemic turbulenceThe return to air travel after the pandemic had a bumpy start but the flying experience is a smoother ride now. In this Chamber Chat CEO Bruce Williams speaks about air travel experiences with Serge Corbeil of Air Canada
Small business financing options with Shayne Beadall of BDC
In these times of high interest and inflation it can be challenging for businesses to access capital to grow and sustain operations. In this Chamber Chat CEO Bruce Williams discusses financing options with Shayne Beadall of BDC
Taking a big picture approach to ensure tourism benefits all
As the travel experience continues to bounce forward from the disruption of the pandemic a Vancouver Island organization is helping travel businesses with culture, environmental impact and operational elements like a “first impression analysis.” In this Chamber Chat CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Brian Cant, acting President and CEO of 4VI
Downtowns are thriving but not without some post pandemic disruptionsIn this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams hears the perspective of Downtown Victoria Business Association CEO Jeff Bray.
Our region's visitor economy is returning as travellers want the Victoria experience
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams talks travel with Destination Greater Victoria CEO Paul Nursey.
World, national and local travel is back. What do we need to know?
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams gets all the answers from Cathy Scott at Departures Travel.
One of the fastest growing sectors of our economy is Indigenous owned businesses
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Christina Clarke, Executive Director of the Indigenous Prosperity Centre about the Centre and its work.
Co-Op Programs at the University of Victoria and Camosun CollegeIn this Chamber Chat CEO Bruce Williams chats with the President of Camosun College Dr. Lane Trotter, and Dr. Kevin Hall President and Vice-Chancellor at UVic about updated co-op programs at their institutions
All Things Cycling with Bishop's Family CyclesThe pandemic created a cycling surge across the Capital Region, and along with it advancements in bike design and technology.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams talks all things cycling with Robert Kemp of Bishops Family Cycles, and about a profound health challenge his family is facing. Celebrating 50+ years with Camosun CollegeCamosun College is celebrating 50+ years of being a leader in our community. Camosun creates careers and builds skills for graduates.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams discusses all things Camosun with it’s President Dr. Lane Trotter. How Empowering Youth Can Change LivesThe usual model of schooling doesn’t align with all students, which can unfortunately lead to students dropping out.
In this Chamber Chat CEO Bruce Williams discusses a solution for keeping these students in school with Gordon Matchett, CEO of the Take A Hike Foundation.
The Lasting Impact of COVID-19 on InsuranceThe COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of climate change have made for major disruptions in the insurance sector.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Laura Bolster and Luke Mills of Megson Fitzpatrick Acera Insurance about how these changes could impact your life and your business.
People, Planet, ProfitIn this Chamber Chat, learn about three operations working to make people and the planet healthier.
Chamber CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Rosemary Sutton of Tire Stewardship BC, David Lawes of BC Used Oil, and Megan Johns of The Green Kiss.
We need to talk about the 'i' words
The “i” words are in everyone’s thoughts. Inflation and Interest rates. In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams chats with three finance and business professionals about how we can best manage the challenges created by i&i.
Prioritizing Healthy Seniors with Berwick Retirement CommunitiesThe model for retirement living has shifted to active living and keeping senior residents healthier than ever before.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Lesley Sikorski of Berwick Retirement Communities, one of the most innovative players in this sector.
Discussing the Regional Impact of UVic The University of Victoria creates an impact on every element of our region.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with UVic President and Vice Chancellor Dr. Kevin Hall about the ongoing evolution of tech, housing, healthcare, climate change and the Vikes!
Next Steps for the City of ColwoodVoters in the City of Colwood decided on a change in leadership in last year’s municipal election.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Colwood’s new Mayor Doug Kobayashi about the priorities and plans for the months and years ahead.
What's next for the City of Langford?For many, the biggest surprise in the results of last year’s Municipal elections was the massive change in the City of Langford.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams discusses what is planned for the future of Langford with newly elected Mayor Scott Goodmanson.
Advancing Education with Pearson CollegePearson College UWC is a world class school located in Greater Victoria. You’ve heard of it, but may not know much about it.
Learn more about this prestigious institution by watching our latest Chamber Chat with CEO Bruce Williams and Pearson’s Head of College and President Craig Davis.
Food Security with ColdStar SolutionsOne of the biggest impacts on the rise in our cost of living has been the steadily increasing price of food.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams discusses the factors contributing to this increase with Travis Shaw of ColdStar Solutions, one of the major links in our food supply chain.
Healthy Habits and Fostering InclusionActive living is good for our physical and mental health, and — as you’ll find out in this Chamber Chat — it’s also a valuable tool for building diversity and inclusion.
Chamber CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Kabir Hosein about Sport for Life and the many unexpected benefits of staying active.
Sustainable Benefits of Local SeaweedCanada is joining other countries in exploring ways of diversifying our food supply and cleaning up our oceans through the production of aquaculture related to seaweed. Cascadia Seaweed, based in Sidney, is already a leader in this sector.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Cascadia’s founders Bill Collins and Mike Williamson.
Solutions available to ensure Safe CommunitiesIn this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Victoria Police Chief Constable Del Manak about ongoing challenges of crime in the city and solutions being created.
What are the Vital Signs for Greater Victoria?
The 17th edition of the Victoria Vital Signs report is out, providing a look at how we see ourselves and how residents feel about a variety of issues.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with Jonathan Dyck of the Victoria Foundation, the creators of the report.
Cultural Significance of Victoria Chinatown MuseumGreater Victoria’s cultural landscape has been enhanced with the opening of the Victoria Chinatown Museum in Fan Tan Alley.
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams speaks with two of the people involved with the creation of the museum who share some very compelling historical facts about the history of Chinese settlers in Greater Victoria. Featuring Charlayne Thornton-Joe, facility coordinator for the Victoria Chinatown Museum, and John Adams, Board Member with Victoria Chinatown Museum.
The Expansion of Royal Roads UniversityRoyal Roads University is expanding with a new campus in Langford set to open soon.
Learn more about that and the ongoing property enhancements at Canada’s most scenic post-secondary campus in this Chamber Chat with CEO Bruce Williams and Royal Roads President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Philip Steenkamp
Marianne Alto Outlines the Future of VictoriaWhy did Marianne Alto want to be Victoria’s next Mayor? What will it be like to work with 7 first-time Council members?
In this Chamber Chat, CEO Bruce Williams discusses these questions and more with Victoria’s new Mayor.
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