Echo Creators: Yolanda Rodriguez of Discovering Kelowna

Interview and photography by Mide Coker.

Echo Creators is an editorial series that spotlights the people shaping culture and creativity across the Okanagan. The series exists to give visibility to local creators, sharing the stories behind their work and the perspectives that inform how they create. By focusing on process, purpose, and impact, Echo Creators offers readers a deeper understanding of the individuals contributing to the region’s creative and cultural landscape.

If you’ve ever wondered where to eat, what just opened, or what everyone’s talking about this weekend, Yolanda Rodriguez likely already has it on her feed. As the creator behind Discovering Kelowna, she uses her platform to spotlight restaurants, experiences, and local happenings with a tone that’s fun, inviting, and distinctly optimistic. Her content captures the city’s energy in real time, shaping how people decide where to go — and what they look forward to next.

OE: How did Discovering Kelowna come to life?

YR: I was always the planner in my friend group — the one figuring out where we were going, what was happening, and how we were spending our time. Back then, Castanet was really the only place sharing event information, and it wasn’t something people my age were actively checking. Around the same time, traditional media outlets weren’t able to post on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, which created a real gap in how information was being shared. I started posting about events and things to do on social media, and before I knew it, Discovering Kelowna naturally grew from there.

OE: What is your long-term vision for Discovering Kelowna? YR: I’d love for Discovering Kelowna to be one of the number one pages people go to when they’re looking for things to do in the city or how to explore Kelowna. But it’s not just about sharing information. A big goal for me is also creating community and building connections with other creators. Being a content creator can get kind of lonely because you’re often working by yourself, so Discovering Kelowna is also about bringing people together and discovering the city together.

OE: If someone was visiting Kelowna for the first time in the summer, what would you tell them they have to experience?

YR: Okanagan canyoning is a must. You’re out in the canyons doing waterfall rappelling and it’s just so much fun. Of course, wine touring — that’s kind of a given — and checking out the breweries and local food around here. My favourite restaurant is Cedar Creek; it’s so good and everything I’ve had has been delicious. And then there’s being on the water — boating, tubing, just really living the Okanagan life.

OE: If they were visiting in the Winter, what would your recommendations be?

YR: There is still lots to do in the winter, you can visit Plant Gather, you can go skating at the downtown rink, which is always fun. And of course, food and wine don’t stop just because it’s colder — there are actually some really great food events in the winter. There’s the Okanagan Mix-Off and Amuse, and honestly, I think those are some of the best food events we have. There are events in the summer too, but the winter ones really stand out to me.

OE: What inspires you — both as a creator and in your everyday life? YR: What inspires me is that there’s always something new and exciting happening in Kelowna. I was born and raised here, so you’d think I would have done everything by now - especially because I’m pretty active in the Okanagan lifestyle. But I’m still finding things I’ve never tried before. That’s what really inspires me: always discovering, always learning, and always trying new things.

.OE: You’ve lived in Kelowna for years. What’s one thing about the city people still don’t know but absolutely should?

YR: Many people think Kelowna is just a spot to come vacation in the summer, but Kelowna is such a vibrant town with lots to do in the winter! It's become a year round destination with something for every budget.

OE: Tourism Kelowna selected you as a Creator - how has that partnership shaped your growth or perspective?

YR: Being an explore Kelowna creator with Tourism Kelowna has added to my credibility as a local guide and trusted creator throughout the Okanagan. This year it's been an incredible experience getting to know my fellow explore Kelowna creators and making lasting partnerships with local businesses. This opportunity has also helped me feel more confident in my skill set and what I bring to the table that's different from other tourism influencers.

OE: What’s the biggest misconception people have about being a content creator in a smaller city?YR: The biggest misconception is that there's less opportunity to make it as a full time content creator. In a big city you're one of many, but here you're one of few, giving you more chances to grow and showcase your talent.

OE: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

YR: People are usually surprised to learn that I’m actually very introverted and I have a lot of social anxiety. On camera and at events, I come across as really bubbly and outgoing — I’ll be like, “Oh hi, nice to meet you.” But when I have free time, I really just like being at home and staying in.

To keep up with Yolanda’s latest recommendations, restaurant reviews, and event highlights, follow Discovering Kelowna on all platforms.

Shoot Locations:

• Born to Shake

• Plant Gather

• Motherlove Kombucha