.png)
Poonicast.
The Poonicast, co-hosted by urban planning myth Gary Pooni, is a series of conversations that celebrates folks who are driving positive change in Greater Vancouver. We’re shining a spotlight on good people doing good things in the city and introducing you to some of our favourite locals. From actors and athletes to philanthropists and musicians, these hometown heroes will motivate and inspire you to make a difference in your own community.
Poonicast.
Episode 15: Bob Lenarduzzi, Chris Higgins & Chanreet Bassi - Three Generations of Sport
On this episode of the Poonicast, three generations of elite athletes come together to discuss the rewards—and sacrifices—of a life in sport.
Host Gary Pooni is joined by two Canadian sports icons: Bob Lenarduzzi, Whitecaps legend, Hall of Famer, and one of the most influential figures in Canadian soccer history; and Chris Higgins, former Vancouver Canuck and longtime NHL forward, who is now focused on player development and mentorship. Completing the table is Chanreet Bassi, trailblazer and the first South Asian ever drafted into the Professional Women’s Hockey League.
Chris shares his unconventional path to the NHL, growing up in a non-traditional hockey market, the mentor who believed in him first, and the mindset needed to navigate the highs and lows of professional sport. Bob reflects on turning pro at just 14, lessons learned over decades in the game, and how humility, resilience, and fear shaped his career both on and off the pitch.
Chanreet represents the next generation—listening, learning, and engaging—as the group discusses mentorship, pressure, confidence, injuries, life after sport, and athletes’ responsibility to give back.
This episode is a conversation about belief, perspective, and the moments—big and small—that define a career long after the final whistle.
This podcast was recorded on July 24th 2025.