An Island Growth Project

Outdoor
Optimism

Conversations with the people making Vancouver Island better.

First episodes dropping soon

Why this exists

Island Growth helps local businesses grow. Outdoor Optimism is the other side of that work: spotlighting the people, organizations, and projects that make Vancouver Island a place worth growing in. The podcast is a space for the stories that do not always get told — the charitable work, the community builders, the people putting in quiet effort that keeps the island moving forward.

FormatIn-person conversations
HostMike Farrell
FocusVancouver Island biology

Who we want to hear from

We are looking for people doing meaningful work on Vancouver Island — not just business success stories, but the kind of work that lifts the whole community.

Community leaders
Environmental advocates
Conservation groups
Marine biologists
Salmon restoration groups
Hatchery or streamkeepers societies
Fisheries scientists
Guides/outfitters with conservation credibility
Local zoologists
Nature trusts

Suggest a guest

Know someone on Vancouver Island doing work that deserves a wider audience? Tell us about them. We read every suggestion.

Know someone we should talk to?

Suggest a guest for Outdoor Optimism. We are looking for people doing meaningful work on Vancouver Island.