In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we’re joined by Colette Trudeau, CEO of Métis Nation British Columbia and a former DJ and singer-songwriter. Colette shares her unique journey from touring with a rock band to leading one of the largest Métis organizations in Canada, reflecting how her artistic background shapes her approach to community building and governance. She discusses the importance of youth engagement, cultural preservation, and her vision for a strong Métis Nation in BC. Tune in to hear Colette's inspiring story and her efforts to elevate Métis voices and culture.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we welcome Gerry St. Germain; a distinguished Métis leader with a remarkable career in military service, business, and politics. Gerry discusses his experiences with identity, discrimination, resilience, and his contributions to preserving Métis history and culture. Gerry discusses everything from his early life along the Assiniboine River to his political career as the first self-identified Métis person in the federal cabinet, highlighting his dedication to Indigenous economic development through the First Nations Major Projects Coalition.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we are joined by Leah Dorion, an interdisciplinary Métis visual artist from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. She is a teacher, painter, filmmaker, and published writer with a BED, BA, and MA. Leah is a self-taught visual artist and credits her creative family for encouraging her to take up traditional Métis art. Explore what it means to be Métis to Leah, her thoughts on traditional Métis clothing, her art, what it means to support Métis art, and her upcoming project with Métis Nation BC.

Check Out Leah's work here:

www.leahdorion.ca

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To enter the draw to win artwork by today's featured guest, share Métis Nation British Columbia’s post promoting this episode on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, and tag 3 friends in the comments.

Deadline to enter is 1 week from the release date of the episode, and the draw and winner will be announced 2 weeks after the release date of the episode. Good luck!

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak with Christi Belcourt. Christi is a Métis visual artist and author living and working in Canada. The episode follows the discussion of her artwork and its roots in Métis quillwork, beadwork, and embroidery. Christi’s art has opened many doors, from community to language to discovering new artists who combine traditional and modern techniques. Learn what it means to Christi to celebrate Métis visual art, find her voice through her artwork, and share her creations with others.

Check out Christi's work here:

http://christibelcourt.com/

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To enter the draw to win artwork by today's featured guest, share Métis Nation British Columbia’s post promoting this episode on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, and tag 3 friends in the comments.

Deadline to enter is 1 week from the release date of the episode, and the draw and winner will be announced 2 weeks after the release date of the episode. Good luck!

Métis Speaker Series Season 4 is set to launch on June 12!

Follow the show to catch every episode as it is released.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Arlette Alcock, a Métis Folk Musician, Songwriter and Social Activist. As a member of the Cree Saulteaux Métis Nation, Arlette is a descendant of the Little Bear Cree First Nations and the Pine Creek Saulteaux. In the episode, she shares her experiences being raised by her mother, a residential school survivor, and the intergenerational trauma passed down through her family. Arlette speaks to losing her son to addiction and the way she uses music to share her Métis heritage.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Pixie Wells, the acting President of the Fraser Valley Métis Association as well as the 2SLGBTGGIA+peoples rep and health/housing director. Pixie uses her position to strengthen the Women and 2SLGBTQQIA+peoples voice of the Métis Nation. In the episode, she shares the importance of land and language acknowledgements, including the ways chartered communities can better connect with those from other communities and cultures.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Joy Bremner, leader of the Mid Island Métis Nation on Vancouver Island. Joy discusses the rewards and challenges of being a supporting pillar within a chartered community. She shares the importance of creating a cultural Métis community, including the work that it takes to build one. Joy believes that small healing steps can lead to bigger transformations.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to June Graham about her family history within the residential school system and the repercussions it has had. June believes there has been a lack of Métis-specific perspective and discussion about the residential school experience story, including a lack of compensation and reconciliation. She discusses her experiences growing up in a family of residential school survivors, including the cycle of violence and alcoholism that has become prevalent through ongoing generations.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Gary Têtu, a flute maker, musician, lodge keeper, chimney sweep, tradesman and more. Gary speaks to both his own experiences in a residential school, as well as his father's experiences, including how these events have shaped his adult life. Gary shares how these experiences have led him to become a Mental Health and Recovery Support worker, supporting others in their own journeys.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak with Arlene Vrtar-Huot. Arlene is a former LPN, Social Worker and I/ED for a National Addictions Society in AB. She has delivered many Family Systems workshops. As a result, she has helped with residential school healing since 1991. She worked at Kelowna Metis Services in various capacities including Sashing ceremonies, Metis adoption and healing circles. She was Chair for Kelowna Metis Elders Advisory Council, Community Research Liaison and currently, Elder Advisor/Adjunct Professor for UBC Faculty of Medicine.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Métis Elder and storyteller, Tom McCallum. Born and raised in Île-à-la-Crosse, Saskatchewan, Tom shares his journey of spiritual discovery, including his time spent at a boarding (residential) school as a young boy. The episode discusses the meanings, and significance behind ceremonies and symbols in Métis culture. Tom shares what reconciliation and healing means to him and how it can look to other people.

In this insightful episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we are joined by Dr. Danièle Behn Smith, the Deputy Provincial Health Officer for Indigenous Health in British Columbia. Dr. Behn Smith shares her journey of blending traditional Indigenous knowledge with Western medical practices, highlighting the importance of cultural safety in healthcare. She delves into her Métis heritage, the challenges of addressing systemic racism in the healthcare system, and her influential work in public health. Learn about her unique approach to creating a more inclusive and equitable healthcare environment.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, Linda McCullough recounts her previous life experiences attending a residential school in Cree Lake, Saskatchewan. Attending the Timber Bay School from the age of seven, Linda recalls being taken from her family suddenly and without warning. The episode follows her life at the school, including the various forms of abuse and trauma that occurred as a result. Linda speaks about the way she has embraced her indigenous heritage through beadwork art.

Join us for Season 3 of the Métis Speaker series Podcast, presented by Telus! The first episode launches on February 27 on all major podcast streaming platforms.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to the regional president of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Lawrence Gervais. This discussion looks at the ways we can help amplify Métis' voices and awareness. Lawrence shares his perspective on what the role of leadership should look like within the Métis Nation and how this role can help in the economic advancement of Métis people.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, Charlie Kerr shares his experience working in the entertainment industry as a member of the Métis community. He also shares his personal experience working directly within his own community of Métis people. As a singer, actor, and writer, Charlie has a great deal of experience within the industry. He shares his thoughts on Métis visibility in the entertainment industry, where Métis people have been largely invisible in the past.

Where does Justene Dion-Glowa find her inspiration for poetry? That’s what we discuss in this episode of the Métis Speaker Series. Justene writes poetry connected to her identity as a Métis person. She shares some of her work from a recent manuscript and dives into her poetic inspiration. Her story is one of personal growth and healing, interpreted through poetry.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we discuss the child welfare and justice system with Peter Lang, CMA Community President. Peter has had his own unfortunate experience with the system in connection to his late son, Nick. The interview looks at the ways that the Métis Nation can support those who share a story similar to Nick’s. Having been failed by the justice system, Peter shares his advice with other parents.

For this episode in our Métis Speaker Series, we talk about environmental protection with Kaija Heitland, a citizen of the Métis Nation of British Columbia. Kaija teaches traditional land-based arts, where she incorporates art as a method of self-reclamation and community bonding. To better understand the unique relationship that Métis people have with the land, Kaija shares her perspective on ways to build better relationships. Her story is one of community, land preservation, and understanding.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Darrell Fox, the younger brother of Terry Fox and senior advisor of the Terry Fox Institute. Darrell shares the story behind the discovery of the Fox family's Métis lineage and the impact that this discovery had on the Foundation. During the conversation, Darrell reflects on the role that Mary Ann Gladue, Betty Fox’s mom, played in his and Terry’s upbringing. He discusses how the Métis core values correlate to the values Terry embraced during his Marathon of Hope.

For this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, Darian speaks to Wayne Wapeemukwa, a Métis Citizen, filmmaker and philosopher. Throughout his life, Wayne has done extensive research on the various ways the 19th-century dispossession afflicted Métis women and how new, colonially-modern discourses of property, race, and gender turned the "plains into private property." This episode covers the extent of his research, the complex learnings, and the outcomes for the Canadian Métis community. 

To kick off season two, we asked Métis National Council President, Cassidy Caron, a very important question - what has Leadership meant to you? President Caron shares how her current role has changed her own meaning of leadership and the ways youth can find leadership positions. This interview offers an insightful look into the role of the Métis National Council President, as well as the importance of strategic alliances and partnerships for the Métis people.

Métis Speaker Series Season 5 is set to launch on August 12!

Follow the show to catch every episode as it is released.

Our first episode of Season 2 will be launching on September 6th, with new episodes dropping weekly every Monday. 

On this podcast we are creating awareness of, and generating discussions about, Métis issues. We will be exploring learning, healing, and rebuilding within the Métis community - including, but not limited to, discussions about land preservation, Métis roles in our society, and what the future of Métis looks like in Canada. 

Listen to the Métis Speaker Series starting September 6th on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. 

To learn more about the podcast, and signup to the Métis Nation of BC newsletter to stay up to date on Métis news, visit metispodcastseries.ca

In this final episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we sit down with Métis Citizen, Lauren Petersen to look at the process of reconciliation through the Métis lens. This chat discusses the question, how do we reconcile with ourselves? Lauren looks at the process of reconciliation with those who have caused us harm. She discusses how building relationships with First Nations is an important piece of Reconciliation.

For this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we chat with Michif Language Learner, Amy Cross, and Métis Elder and Michif Language Teacher, Marie Schoenthal. The two women share knowledge regarding the diversity of indigenous languages in Métis communities. They speak to the imperfectness of practicing and reclaiming language, and how this practice can contribute to the healing process. From the perspective of an elder and a learner, these women provide a unique understanding of language and their own michif learnings. Michif learnings are inspirational sayings and words of gratitude that speak to you.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Louis De Jaeger, MNBC Minister of Economic Development and Natural Resources and the 2SLGBTQQIA+ advisory committee chair. Louis shares his experience in how a nation supports the inclusion of Two-Spirited people and Métis traditions around two-spirited people. He goes on to advise how we can work towards greater gender inclusivity. Louis believes in the positive impacts of implementing the rainbow crosswalk in your community.

This episode of our Métis Speaker Series focuses on women and gender equity, represented by Métis Citizen and Region 4 Women’s Rep, Jana Schulz. Jana speaks to the topic of fair visibility and what this looks like for people. She also shares healing practices and the forms of support that survivors and families benefit from. Jana talks about what part of her truth was silenced and why it is important to honour the things that society doesn’t want to acknowledge.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we chat about the environment and sustainability with Métis Citizen, Vanessa Prescott. Vanessa shares her story, about where her family comes from and what their relationship was with the land. She shares what she finds most special about Métis land-based practices and how relationships with land have changed over time for Métis people. The series covers how we can begin to repair and build better relationships with First Nation land stewards in BC.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we talk about health and wellness with Métis Knowledge Carrier, Lynette La Fontaine. Lynette shares their words for describing healing through culture and how to describe the barriers that are connected to cultural healing. They go on to share medicine wheel teachings and speak to beading as a form of medicine.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we ask MNBC Minister of Youth Shaughn Davoren how we go about decolonizing leadership. Shaughn shares advice as to how we can amplify Métis culture in leadership roles and help youth understand leadership as a practice rather than an official role. She shares her Métis leader inspirations, specifically Métis women in history.

What are your greatest words of wisdom? In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, Métis Elder Denise McCuaig talks about overcoming barriers she faced in her healing process. The episode discusses blood memory and how it has gone on to affect an entire generation's healing process. In her words, Denise shares her advice for today's youth and her best ways to assist them in rebuilding our nation. She also touches on her favourite medicine to harvest and explains traditional Métis healing practices.

Get ready for the Métis Speaker Series! Brought to you by the Métis Nation of British Columbia and Jelly Marketing. Funding provided by the Civil Forfeiture Offices Indigenous Healing Stream.

New episodes released weekly, launching on January 24.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, guest host Lisa Shepard sits down with the Métis artist behind Renegade Rose Artistry, Sheena Gering. This episode follows conversations between Lisa and Sheena on traditional beadwork and the lesser-known art forms of rug hooking and needle felting. Sheena creates stunning traditional beadwork and also works with wool in needle felting. She discusses the beauty of needle felting, how she is connected to her pieces, and her journey in Métis art.

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To enter the draw to win artwork by today's featured guest, share Métis Nation British Columbia’s post promoting this episode on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, and tag 3 friends in the comments.

Deadline to enter is 1 week from the release date of the episode, and the draw and winner will be announced 2 weeks after the release date of the episode. Good luck!

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we are joined by Kim Gullion Stewart, Métis visual artist, Educator, Consultant, and Independent Art Researcher, born in Athabasca, Alberta. In this session, Kim discusses her passion for visual art and connections to her Métis heritage. Explore what it means to Kim to be a Métis artist, her journey of creating from childhood to now, and why it's important to support Métis artists.

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Follow Kim Gullion Stewart:

Website - http://www.kimstewartonline.ca/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kim.art4life/

On today’s episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we chat with Jordan Waunch, a Vancouver-based Métis artist, producer, actor, and content creator. Jordan has acted and written for film, television, and animated series. Listen in as Jordan shares his passion for writing, Métis storytelling, history and all things that involve collaborative creation.

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Follow Jordan Waunch:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamjdubs/?hl=en

LinkedIn - https://ca.linkedin.com/in/jordan-waunch-075a72113

On this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Billie-Jo Grant, an award-winning educator with over 20 years of classroom experience. Billie-Jo is a proud citizen of the Métis Nation of Alberta. As an adult, Billie-Jo found strength and pride in being Métis once she surrounded herself with others who were excited about representing their heritage. Billie-Jo loves sharing and teaching others about authentic resources. She encourages Métis people to be proud of who they are and to always be curious. This episode follows Billie-Jo’s journey to embracing her Métis heritage and how being Métis has impacted her teaching over the years.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak with Casandra Woolever, a Métis fashion designer and owner of Métis Branded. Casandra is truly a creator. The episode follows her passion for the historic Métis Capote, which she makes from recycled and repurposed old wool blankets. We touch on how her business came to be, her love for designing and sewing with a focus on repurposing, her connection to her creations and the meaningful stories behind the blankets she uses.

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Check out Casandra's work here:

Website - https://metisbranded.ca/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/metisbranded/?hl=en

On this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we are joined by Julie Nolin, a producer and reporter for Global BC who is proudly Métis and Cree. Julie spent nearly a decade with CTV News as a multi-skilled journalist. In addition to now working with Global BC, Julie has taught journalism, media, and television at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Learn about Julie’s connection to being Métis, thoughts on harnessing Indigenous storytelling, and her journey in educating others on how to represent Indigenous cultures in storytelling and media.

Follow Julie Nolin:

Website - Julienolin.ca

Twitter - https://twitter.com/JulieNolinTV

Josh Nilson, co-founder of Eastside Games and BC Tech's 2022 Person of the Year, shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Northern BC to being a leader in the tech industry. He discusses his 25-year tech career, passion for gaming, creation of Eastside Games, and mission to increase Indigenous representation in the industry. He also discusses the importance of mentorship and collaboration and his ongoing efforts to invest in the next generation of Métis entrepreneurs. Tune in to hear how Josh balances innovation with cultural authenticity in his mission to inspire others in the tech world.

In this episode, we welcome Lisa Shepherd; a celebrated artist, highly respected cultural ambassador, and knowledge carrier for the Métis Nation. Along with Robin Sather, a professional LEGO® artisan and builder since 2004. They discuss how their art celebrates Métis ancestry and share their experiences from the 2024 Chilliwack Mural Festival. They also explore the healing power of creativity, emphasizing how art resonates with people and helps them reconnect with their Métis heritage.

In this episode, Ryan St. Germaine and Stuart Dixon discuss Métis entrepreneurship, including the diverse range of Métis-owned businesses and the support available for them.

Listeners will gain insights into the unique qualities of Métis businesses, the legacy they carry, and the importance of engaging in the business world to influence economic decisions. Whether you’re a Métis founder or looking to support Métis businesses, this episode offers valuable perspectives on fostering innovation and growth within the community.

In this episode, we explore the art of beading through the stories of Métis artist Jennine Krauchi, along with Claire Johnston and David Hienrichs. Jennine is an internationally recognized Métis artist and designer based in Winnipeg, MB. Jennine shares how she grew up with beading, keeping her culture alive, and passing on its history. Claire and David recount their experiences learning from Jennine, discussing creativity, mentorship, and their own beadwork journeys. This episode is a celebration of beading as an art form, and a source of empowerment for those passionate about this craft.

Métis Speaker Series Season 6 is set to launch on April 7!

Follow the show to catch every episode as it is released.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak with Maria Campbell, the celebrated author of Halfbreed. Maria reflects on the importance of community and cultural events like Batoche, and shares her efforts to revive Métis traditions through gatherings such as the Half-Breed Balls. She also offers a preview of her upcoming podcast, Tea at Gabriel's Crossing, where she engages with prominent figures and explores Métis history. Tune in to hear Maria's insights on heritage, storytelling, and the power of social connection.

Find out more about her book Halfbreed here:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/610927/halfbreed-by-maria-campbell/9780771024092

In this episode, we speak with Jean Teillet, a Métis visual artist, author, and activist. Jean discusses the importance of telling Métis stories and the growth of the Métis community in Canada. She reflects on the challenges of defining Métis identity and advocates for the use of "Michif Nation" to clarify distinctions within the community. Jean also shares about her current artistic projects, including translating her book into a tapestry series. Join us for a deep dive into Métis culture, the future of representation, and Jean's personal journey as a storyteller.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak with Jan Ovans, a member of the Cowichan Valley Métis Association, to explore her journey and the complexities of Métis identity. Jan shares stories of her family’s history in Alberta and the challenges they faced, reflecting on racism. She also discusses resilience and the importance of early cancer detection and accessible healthcare. Jan's story highlights the strength and interconnectedness within the Métis community. Join us for a conversation on Métis culture, representation, and Jan’s personal healing journey.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak with Madelaine McCracken, a Red River Métis scholar and educator. Madelaine discusses her work as a 4th-year PhD candidate and part-time professor at the University of Ottawa, focusing on Métis perspectives within Truth and Reconciliation Education. She shares her journey of honouring her Métis roots, the importance of representing Indigenous values in Canadian curriculum, and the role of decolonial research in advancing reconciliation. Tune in to hear Madelaine’s thoughts on identity, community-driven research, and the path toward a more inclusive educational future.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak with newly elected Métis Nation BC President, Walter Mineault. Walter shares his personal journey, his deep roots in the Métis community, and his vision for unifying Métis people across BC and Canada. He reflects on the importance of leadership, the next generation, and how fostering community connections can create a stronger future. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, reconciliation, and the power of coming together.