In Episode 5 of the Into the Hearts of Canada podcast, Matt Leedham welcomes Marg Leehane, General Manager and co-owner of Great Bear Lodge on Vancouver Island, to share her story of how a floating lodge in the heart of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest has become a model for responsible wildlife tourism.
Into the Hearts of Canada is an engaging 10-part series that explores the people, places, and powerful ideas shaping the future of travel through a Canadian lens.
From Indigenous knowledge-keepers and local changemakers to iconic landscapes and regenerative tourism pioneers, each episode offers an intimate conversation with the people reimagining what travel can be.
Whether you’re a curious wanderer or a travel professional seeking fresh insights, this podcast invites you to see Canada with new eyes and an open heart.
Episode 5: Guardians of the Grizzlies: Protecting the Great Bear Rainforest through responsible tourism
Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Marg left a career in software development to pursue her passion for wildlife and wilderness in a remote North Eastern area of Vancouver Island.
Since 2001, she has co-owned and operated Great Bear Lodge, a stunning floating off-grid property that gives travellers the rare opportunity to observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat while supporting conservation and community partnerships.
“When we tread lightly and honour the places we visit, we help protect them for generations to come.” – Marg Leehane.
Episode 5 Top Takeaways
We are the Guardians of the Rainforest: “The Great Bear Rainforest is one of the most pristine places left on Earth. By welcoming small groups of visitors in an ethical way, we can ensure this ecosystem and its grizzly bears, remain protected.”
From Melbourne to the wilds of Canada: “I wanted to do something meaningful, something that gave back to nature. Running Great Bear Lodge gave me that chance.”
Tourism with purpose at its heart: At the lodge, strict wildlife viewing protocols ensure guests observe grizzlies without causing stress or harm. “Every stay is both transformative for our guests and beneficial to the environment.”
Genuine partnerships with local voices: Working closely with First Nations and conservation groups is central to the mission. “Tourism should amplify local perspectives while protecting the places that make travel possible.”
A message for travel professionals: Marg’s advice to advisors: “Responsible travel experiences resonate deeply with guests. When tourism gives back more than it takes, everyone benefits — travellers, communities, and the planet.”
Show Notes
- Find out more about Great Bear Lodge here
- Subscribe to Into The Hearts of Canada Podcast here
- Find your local Canada Specialist Travel Advisor here
- Travel Advisors: Join the Canada Specialist Program here
Catch up on past episodes
Into the Hearts of Canada is presented in partnership with Destination Canada.
