When we moved to the Cowichan Valley from Vancouver two years ago for my partner’s teaching opportunity, The Discourse was one of the first places I cozied up to in order to understand and truly appreciate where I live. I was amazed that something like The Discourse even existed in today’s quick-click culture — it became my community compass and a breath of journalistic fresh air.
When the fine people at The Discourse put a call out for a Cowichan Valley Reporter, I felt like it was tailor-made for me, my values and experience. Thankfully, they felt the same, and I’m so honoured to be here.
Collaborating with a unique community through writing reminds me of my first — and perhaps favourite — stint as a published person.
Looking for a place to belong in university, I spent all my time in the bowels of an old University of Calgary building where the campus radio station and newspaper lived. Interviewing local bands, reporting on alternative lifestyles and activism, I thought, “Could this be a thing I do when I grow up?”
Turns out it could. Since university (when grey hair was a fanciful concept), I’ve told stories for TV, radio, podcasts, print and online magazines.
The best places to work were always those that allowed space for my own voice and encouraged experimenting with new ideas — be it in various newsrooms, through MuchMusic, globetrotting for travel shows, inside vulnerable pieces for The Globe and Mail, or writing political comedy for the CBC show, This Hour Has 22 Minutes.
In order to get to know me better, I thought I’d continue that spirit of trying new things and interview myself.
Related: The Discourse Cowichan Valley stories
Jordan, being fairly new to the Cowichan Valley, what do you appreciate most about living in the here?
Good question, Jordan. I think despite the unmatched natural beauty, it’s really the people I find so engaging. I love that I can walk to the farmers market and say hi to a dozen people. I often feel a lack of cynicism and a smaller-town approachability with people here. And that inspires me to be a better neighbour, better community member and better reporter.
How has journalism changed from when you first started in the media?
It has changed, yes. I think anyone can see it’s a pretty lousy time for thoughtful reporting right now. Real storytelling has been reduced to quick content. Scrolling and swiping have replaced engaging in an issue with insight and multiple voices. Outrage gets more time than thought-provoking dialogue.
That’s why I honestly find The Discourse so valuable for me — as both a community reader and as a team member. It’s a place where a story is followed to great length with background, multiple sources and solutions for the community. It’s a news source that works with others to tell the best possible stories. Most media outlets don’t provide that much today, despite the fact that people do want better information.
What issues in the Cowichan Valley are you ready to dig into for this role?
I have the same passions and concerns for my community and the Island I believe most people have here. Namely the right to housing, fair living wages, personal safety, hearing the voices of marginalized groups, the natural environment, food and water sustainability, inflation and societal inequity.
I am also passionate about solutions to substance use disorder and approaches to recovery. As well, I’d like to report on arts and culture in this area of the world. The stories in our community are endless and I can’t wait to get rolling!
OK, Jordan. As a final way for people to get to know you more, name 10 things you love in life.
You really ask the tough questions. Alright. I treasure my daughters. I can’t survive without writing and reading. I love playing the saxophone. I adore my new home in the Valley. I relax by cooking big meals. I always have music on. I was a band and drama nerd in school instead of an athlete, but I swim every morning at 6 a.m. and love hiking and paddleboarding here.
I think that’s about nine. Can the last one be off-the-record?
Yes, I promise.
I eat a bowl of ice cream every night. Without fail.
