My uneasy stomach, and what I know to be true about substance use and mental health, led me to talk about the BC Premier's recent announcement that beds are being allocated for involuntary treatment in BC. I feel that it's wrong for many reasons, but mostly, I feel like this has more to do with the public's discomfort with seeing people unwell and doing drugs on Vancouver streets, than on truly supporting those who will be "helped" against their will.
Why is it so easy to start drinking and so hard to stop? In this episode of Rachel Thexton Connects, I sit down with William Porter, lawyer and author of the bestselling book “Alcohol Explained,” to explore how alcohol really impacts anxiety, sleep, mental health, and addiction recovery. William explains how alcohol, a chemical sedative, triggers an equal and opposite reaction of anxiety in the brain, and why so many people feel worse over time even though they drink “to relax.” We unpack why a few drinks may help you fall asleep but lead to poor‑quality rest, 3 a.m. wake‑ups, and next‑day exhaustion.
Venezuela is more than just the headlines." To launch our new season, I am privileged to welcome Meriely Arias to the podcast. While the capture of Nicolas Maduro has the world talking, Meriely born in Puerto Cabello, joins me to share the story of a people who remain joyful and resilient despite decades of turmoil.
From the "production line" of the traditional Christmas Hallaca to the struggle of families sending money home, Meriely gives us an intimate look at the Venezuelan experience. We also talk about her journey to Canada, the vibrant Venezuelan community right here in British Columbia, and how we can support local businesses—from Port Moody's hidden gems to the best tequeños in the Lower Mainland.
