In this episode, Janice and Suzanne reflect on their childhood growing up in Squamish, British Columbia, and share memories of small-town life, family traditions, cultural identity, and the experiences that shaped them as first-generation Asian Canadian kids. From wandering around neighborhood creeks and parks to helping at family businesses and navigating life as one of the only Asian families in town, the conversation is filled with humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt stories about growing up in the 90s.

Timestamps

• 00:01 – Welcome to the podcast and why Janice & Suzanne started the show

• 01:23 – Growing up in Squamish and memories of different neighborhoods

• 05:10 – Creek adventures, backyard playtime, and classic small-town childhood memories

• 07:00 – Playing around town, family restaurants, and growing up with independence

• 10:10 – Parents working constantly and helping out in the family business

• 12:04 – Being some of the only Asian kids in school and experiences with identity and bullying

• 18:07 – Strict Asian teachers, school stories, and childhood discipline

• 21:37 – Taekwondo, piano lessons, Chinese school, and extracurricular activities

• 26:50 – Childhood memories they would relive again and reflections on home

Small Town Girls: Growing Up Between Worlds

Two best friends. One small town. A ton of untold stories. 

Fresh Off the Bluff is the podcast where Janice and Suzanne finally unpack what it was actually like growing up among the few Asian kids in Squamish, BC — the culture clashes, the cringe-worthy memories, the parents who sacrificed everything and definitely didn't talk about it, and the realization that all of it somehow made them who they are today. 

Funny, honest, and occasionally chaotic, this is a nod to the generations before them, a living memoir for the generations to come, and an open invitation to anyone who's ever felt like the only one in the room.