Welcome to the second episode of our podcast series. Today, we have the honour of speaking with Elder Maryann Stepien, who has graciously agreed to share her powerful and personal story with us. Elder Maryann's journey is one of deep resilience and strength, as she reflects on the joys of her early life growing up near Hinton and the unimaginable challenges she faced after being taken away to a residential school. Her story does not shy away from the harsh realities of the treatment she endured, and it covers mature themes that may be difficult to hear. However, it is an essential narrative that offers profound insight into the lives of countless young people who were forced into these institutions. Through Maryann's story, we gain a deeper understanding of the impact of residential schools and the enduring spirit of those who survived them. We invite you to listen with an open heart and mind as we explore this remarkable story of survival and resilience.