Forward Together

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Forward Together Podcast, host Rod Miller sits down with Dean Montgomery — CEO of Indigenous Initiatives Inc., President of Sunspear Renewables, Co-Founder of Bears' Lair TV, and a proud citizen of the Métis Nation. Dean shares how his family background and early entrepreneurial experiences shaped his approach to building meaningful partnerships between Indigenous communities and corporate Canada. He reflects on the dramatic shift in Indigenous economic development over the past decade — and how nations are taking increasing ownership in energy projects, business development, and long-term economic planning.

Dean also highlights the work behind Indigenous Initiatives, Sunspear Renewables, and Bears' Lair — from supporting nations with funding and strategic planning, to advancing Indigenous-led clean energy solutions, to empowering youth through entrepreneur camps. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of values, community leadership, and hope — and why Indigenous-led companies are now guiding the way forward in strengthening economic reconciliation across Canada.

Key Takeaways

• Dean's Métis and Cree heritage deeply influences his worldview and commitment to supporting Indigenous communities.
• His early business ventures naturally led to building relationships with local nations long before "inclusion" was a mainstream concept.
• Indigenous Initiatives Inc. helps nations with strategic planning, governance, community engagement, and gaining access to capital.
• Many nations face barriers around funding, financial history, and capacity— areas Dean's team works to strengthen.
• Sunspear Renewables supports energy sovereignty through Indigenous-owned solar and microgrid projects while training local community members.
• Clean energy projects allow nations to redirect savings into areas like health care, housing, and education.
• Bears' Lair TV and the youth entrepreneur camps provide safe, inspiring spaces for Indigenous youth to learn business skills and design ventures that support their communities.
• Youth consistently create business ideas rooted in community well-being and cultural pride.
• Indigenous-led companies are increasingly leading major partnerships and guiding corporations on how to work effectively with nations.
• Dean encourages corporations to begin with their values and be clear about what they are truly willing to give in a partnership.
• His long-term vision includes Bears' Lair programs in more communities, Indigenous microgrids powering nations, and continued growth in education and capacity building.

Guest Bio:

Dean Montgomery is a proud Métis business leader with 25+ years of experience building strong, respectful partnerships between Indigenous communities, Corporate Canada, government, and non-profits. His work focuses on creating real economic opportunities — grounded in Indigenous values, leadership, and ownership. With a focus on long-term impact, he works alongside companies to launch Indigenous Relations departments, develop meaningful engagement strategies, and structure joint ventures that reflect true partnership and profitability. This work turns collaboration into action — specializing in the resource and energy sectors.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Dean Montgromery → Click Here!

Learn more about Indigenous Initiatives Inc. → Click Here!

Learn more about Sunspear Renewables → Click Here!

Bears' Lair → https://bearslairtv.com

Bears' Lair Dream Camps → https://www.bearslairdreamcamps.com/ Beyond the Lair Podcast → https://open.spotify.com/show/2BXjxd9CSXFBKpk572QTB8 Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Forward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!

Episode Overview

On this episode of Forward Together, host Rod Miller sits down with Geena Jackson—broadcast journalist turned economic development officer, TV creator, and founder of Bears' Lair Dream Camps.

Geena shares how her career came full circle, from interning at Hollywood entertainment shows to spending 13 years in economic development with the Squamish Nation—and eventually pitching and producing Bears' Lair, an Indigenous-led business show on APTN and CBC that centres collaboration over competition.

She also dives into Bears' Lair Dream Camps, a national youth entrepreneurship program that has already reached nearly 2,000 Indigenous youth in more than 70 communities, teaching them business basics, leadership, and confidence in a culturally grounded, community-driven way.

This is a powerful conversation about representation, "co-opetition," and why it's never too late to start something big.

Key Takeaways

• How Geena's early broadcast journalism dreams and Hollywood internships eventually came full circle in the creation of Bears' Lair.

• Why she believes in "co-opetition"—a collaborative, Indigenous-led alternative to traditional business competition shows.

• The behind-the-scenes hustle of funding and producing Bears' Lair during a pandemic, and what it took to get Seasons 1 and 2 on APTN and CBC.

• Real stories of Indigenous entrepreneurs whose businesses and visibility grew after appearing on the show.

• The vision and impact of Bears' Lair Dream Camps, a national program teaching Indigenous youth (ages 14–18) entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial literacy in their own communities.

• Why Indigenous entrepreneurship is growing faster than any other demographic in Canada—and how allies, funders, and partners can support that momentum.

• Geena's perspective on starting a national TV show in her 50s, designing a legacy, and the importance of "Who Not How" when scaling your impact.

Guest Bio:

Geena Jackson is a proud member of the Shishalh Nation (Sechelt) and a passionate advocate for Indigenous Rights and self-determination. She is an entrepreneur and business leader with 25 years of experience that has worked for First Nation communities and Industry. As an economic development officer for the Squamish Nation for 13 years, followed by executive positions with large Industry companies, Geena recognized that successful projects for Indigenous communities are founded on uniting three vital groups; Indigenous Communities, Industry Expertise and Government support systems.

Indigenous Initiatives has united a team of experts with the knowledge and relationships to navigate complex projects to support Indigenous communities. Geena has helped over 550 Indigenous entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses and social enterprises through exceptional technical assistance to write and attain grant funding and access loans. She is also the creator and host of the Bears Lair TV show on APTN which is dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs on a National scale.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Geena Jackson → Click Here!

Bears' Lair → https://bearslairtv.com Bears' Lair Dream Camps → https://www.bearslairdreamcamps.com/ Beyond the Lair Podcast → https://open.spotify.com/show/2BXjxd9CSXFBKpk572QTB8

Why Not How Book By Dan Sullivan: Amazon Store

Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Forward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!

Episode Overview Forward Together host Rod Miller sits down with Darian Kovacs—Métis entrepreneur, founding partner of Jelly Digital Marketing & PR and creator of Jelly Academy—for a candid conversation on building ethical, measurable marketing that actually converts. Darian shares Jelly's origin story (combining PR, social, and digital ads), why storytelling + reciprocity sit at the heart of his approach, and how Jelly Academy helps organizations bring critical skills in-house. They dig into law-firm lead gen, event and app marketing, the early charity-gala strategy that put Jelly in front of decision-makers, and the next five years of digital (hint: "silent social" communities and cutting through AI slop). Darian also offers practical advice for Indigenous youth and founders—from owning your digital footprint to tapping Indigenous Financial Institutions and testing ideas via crowdfunding. Key Takeaways

• PR + Social + Ads = Measurable Growth: Jelly launched by uniting disciplines and obsessing over conversions and qualified leads.

• Teach What You Do: Jelly Academy equips teams to bring SEO, social, and ads in-house—capacity building as a growth strategy.

• Storytelling & Reciprocity: Métis values of bridge-building and abundance inform brand work and community partnerships.

• Own Your Digital Footprint: For youth and job-seekers—optimize LinkedIn, publish listicles/blogs, understand SEO, and try micro-video.

• Community First Works: Early sponsorship of high-impact charity galas delivered relationships, clients, and tangible social ROI.

• What's Next: "Silent social" communities (Discord, WhatsApp, closed groups, Reddit) will matter more as AI content explodes.

• Measure What Matters: Track conversions, then verify quality (e.g., files opened for law firms) and attribute results accurately.

• Start Smart: Indigenous founders can explore funding/support and use Kickstarter to validate ideas with low risk.

• 2030 Vision: Indigenous perspectives embedded in-house across organizations—less outsourcing for "Indigenous insight," more real inclusion.

Guest Bio:

Darian Kovacs is the Indigenous founder Vancouver based SEO company Jelly Digital Marketing & PR & digital marketing course Jelly Academy. He brings 15 years of marketing experience and a passion for education, and creativity. He is the host of the podcast Marketing News Canada. Darian specializes in mixing PR with digital marketing and has worked with numerous internationally renowned brands on developing and executing their digital marketing and PR strategies. Darian lives in Fort Langley, BC with his wife and four children and likes to mountain bike, watercolour and read in his free time.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Jelly Marketing → https://jellymarketing.ca/

Connect with Darian Kovacs on LinkedIn → Click Here!

Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Forward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Forward Together podcast, host Rod Miller engages with Sarah Jacknife, a Métis and Cree policy expert, educator and entrepreneur. They discuss Sarah's journey from her roots in the Elizabeth Métis settlement to founding Jacknife Consulting, which focuses on Indigenous policy and inclusion. The conversation explores the importance of education, the role of policy in structural change, and the need for co-creation in governance. Sarah shares insights on misconceptions surrounding Indigenous inclusion, the significance of celebrating Indigenous excellence and her vision for true reconciliation in Canada.

Key Takeaways

• Sarah's upbringing in a community of entrepreneurs shaped her desire to work for herself.
• Education is crucial for understanding the historical context of Indigenous issues.
• Policy can hold organizations accountable and drive structural change.
• Co-creation in governance ensures equal representation and accountability.
• Indigenous knowledge offers valuable insights for addressing contemporary issues.
• Small steps in Indigenous inclusion can lead to significant structural changes.
• Misconceptions about Indigenous inclusion often stem from nervousness or overconfidence.
• Celebrating Indigenous excellence can shift the narrative from trauma to empowerment.
• Global perspectives on Indigenous relations highlight the need for community-specific solutions.
• True reconciliation involves integrating Indigenous perspectives into everyday life.

Guest Bio:

Sarah Jacknife, MPP, is a nationally recognized Métis and Cree policy expert, educator, and advocate for Indigenous inclusion and reconciliation. A proud member of the Elizabeth Métis Settlement with roots in Saddle Lake Cree First Nation (Treaty 6) and mixed European ancestry, Sarah is the Founder and Principal of Jacknife Consulting—an Indigenous woman-owned firm specializing in Indigenous policy, research, curriculum development, and organizational learning.

Sarah's work is grounded in advancing Indigenous voices, perspectives, and prosperity within Canadian institutions. Through Jacknife Consulting, she partners with organizations across sectors to design inclusive policies, develop culturally relevant curricula, and deliver impactful training on reconciliation, anti-racism, and Indigenous history. Her expertise has been sought by post-secondary institutions, government agencies, and corporations—including Rogers Communications, where she led Indigenous Corporate Development and Community Engagement.

Sarah is also a sessional instructor at the University of Calgary's School of Public Policy and an active member of the Canadian Indigenous Leadership Circle and her writing has appeared in The Globe and Mail, CBC, and the Calgary Herald.

Sarah's leadership is defined by her commitment to meaningful reconciliation, decolonization, and the creation of pathways for Indigenous economic and social prosperity. She currently resides in Calgary (Mohkinstsis) on Treaty 7 territory.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Jacknife Consulting → https://jacknifeconsulting.ca/

Connect with Sarah Jacknife on LinkedIn → Click Here!

Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Forward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Forward Together Podcast, Rod Miller sits down with Corey Janvier (Chipewyan Prairie Dene First Nation), Founder & CEO of Cedar Brush Site Services & Janitorial, to unpack how he grew a 100% Indigenous-owned business from a $400 Facebook-Marketplace kit into a multi-division operation serving Metro Vancouver and beyond.

Corey shares how ceremony, compassion, and the "Four Directions" approach guide everything—from biohazard cleans and housing support to non-medical home care and Indigenous staffing. He talks Bears' Lair and Dragons' Den, hiring for second chances, scaling without credit lines, landing BC Hydro and his next chapter: franchising the Cedar Brush model and expanding into medical home care.

Key Takeaways

• Lead with culture as the foundation. Corey built Cedar Brush with ceremony and Indigenous teachings at the core, proving that culture can be the operating system for a profitable, scalable business.
• Start small, scale smart. A $400 investment in basic cleaning supplies turned into $1.2M ARR and 50+ staff by focusing on service quality, community trust and incremental growth without relying on credit lines.
• Diversify in ways that connect. Cedar Brush's four divisions were designed to "snap together," creating a business model that scales across industries while staying cohesive.
• Care for your people holistically. The company invests in staff beyond paychecks, supporting housing, treatment, cultural practices and community connection. That level of care builds loyalty and resilience in the team.
• Hire for potential, not resumes. By skipping traditional interviews and giving second chances, Corey tapped into overlooked talent, turning barriers like criminal records or recovery into opportunities for growth.
• Exposure accelerates credibility. National platforms like Bears' Lair and Dragons' Den didn't just validate the model; they created visibility that helped win enterprise clients like BC Hydro.
• Trust is the ultimate moat. Success with both employees and clients came from trust built through relationship-first service, trauma-informed practices and cultural authenticity.
• Think bigger once the base is solid. With a strong foundation, the next phase is franchising the Cedar Brush model across Canada and moving into Indigenous-led medical home care.

Guest Bio:

Corey Janvier is a dynamic Indigenous entrepreneur and community leader from Chipewyan Prairie Dene First Nation in northern Alberta. As the Founder and CEO of Cedar Brush Site Services & Janitorial, Corey has built a thriving 100% Indigenous-owned and operated business that serves the Metro Vancouver region and beyond, specializing in site services and janitorial solutions for Indigenous organizations, industrial, and commercial clients.

Corey's entrepreneurial journey is deeply rooted in his commitment to creating Indigenous economic opportunities and employment. While pursuing an Indigenous MBA from Thompson Rivers University, he founded Cedar Brush, drawing its name from the Indigenous West Coast tradition of using cedar branches in river dips for cleansing and protection—a powerful symbol of purity, resilience, and care that reflects his business philosophy.

Originally from the heart of Alberta's oilsands region near Fort McMurray, Corey relocated to West Vancouver in 2019 with his wife Jessica, who is from Heiltsuk Nation and works with the First Nations Health Authority. Together, they are raising three children—Clea, Kai, and Parker—and have welcomed their first grandchild, Xawi. Corey's career began in social work, where he worked with various communities and organizations across Western Canada, building the foundation for his deep understanding of Indigenous community needs and relationship-building.

Through Cedar Brush, Corey has positioned his company as more than just a service provider—it's a vehicle for Indigenous economic development and community support. His business has gained national recognition, including featuring on the Indigenous business competition "Bear's Lair" (season 2), where he showcased his company's mission and impact. Cedar Brush actively employs members from Squamish Nation and other Indigenous communities, creating pathways for Indigenous economic participation and prosperity.

Corey's leadership extends beyond his business ventures. He is passionate about community enhancement and economic development, and his work demonstrates how Indigenous-owned businesses can thrive while maintaining strong cultural connections and community commitment. His approach combines traditional Indigenous values with modern business practices, creating sustainable economic opportunities that benefit both Indigenous communities and the broader economy.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Cedar Brush Site Services & Janitorial → https://cedarbrush.ca/

Connect with Corey Janvier on LinkedIn → Click Here!

Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Forward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Forward Together Podcast, Rod Miller sits down with Métis entrepreneur and governance leader Colby Delorme. Colby talks about what pulled him into entrepreneurship, how culture shapes the way he leads, and the lessons he's carried through building Imagination Group. He shares why mentorship matters for Indigenous youth, including a story of unexpected support from Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively.

The conversation also digs into the role of boards in advancing Indigenous economic prosperity, and Colby's advice for the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Key Takeaways

• Starting young, starting scrappy: Colby launched his first company at 18 and learned early the value of professionalism—branding, marketing materials and showing up prepared.

• Leadership is a learned muscle: He evolved from a tough, exacting "early boss" to a leader who values preparedness, responsibility and setting teams up to succeed.

• What makes an entrepreneur: Entrepreneurship, for Colby, is identity and resilience—a mindset he links to Métis ingenuity and intergenerational experience.

• Culture at the core: Their tobacco line was launched with elders' guidance as a ceremonial, educational product—packaged and handled with intention to honour protocol and purpose.

• Bridging the mentorship gap: Co-founding Influence Mentoring Society, Colby targets Indigenous post-secondary/professional learners, creating "social capital" through protege-led, national mentorship.

• Catalytic philanthropy matters: A $250k gift from Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively validated the model and unlocked momentum—showing how first movers de-risk new, impact-driven initiatives.

• Boards as engines of policy (not tokenism): Real inclusion means embedding Indigenous worldviews across all corporate policies—not isolating them in a standalone "Indigenous policy."

• Practical startup playbook: Learn how to start your entrepreneurship journey, wherever in the process you may be.

Guest Bio:

Colby Delorme is a distinguished Métis entrepreneur and governance expert who has dedicated over 30 years to building Indigenous economic empowerment through strategic business development, mentorship and innovative partnerships. As President of the Imagination Group Inc. and Co-Founder and Chairperson of Influence Mentoring Society, Colby has established himself as a transformational leader in advancing Indigenous prosperity across Canada.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links: Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Foward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Forward Together podcast, host Rod Miller speaks with Deborah Green, a proud Cree woman from the Kawacatoose and Piapot First Nations in Saskatchewan and one of Canada's most influential voices on Indigenous reconciliation. With over 25 years of professional and personal experience in equity, diversity, and inclusion, Deborah has dedicated her career to breaking down systemic barriers and building pathways for Indigenous economic participation and prosperity.

She shares her journey of growing up "living a colonial existence," navigating racism in her early career, and finding her calling in Indigenous recruitment, workforce development, and organizational transformation. Deborah discusses the importance of authentic leadership, the role of Indigenous voices at decision-making tables, and why action—beyond performative statements—is critical for reconciliation. Her perspective highlights both the resilience required to lead this work and the cultural shifts organizations must embrace to create meaningful change.

Key Takeaways

• Deborah Green's life experiences shaped her commitment to creating new possibilities for future Indigenous generations.

• Growing up avoiding the "scoop" of her siblings gave her firsthand understanding of systemic barriers faced by Indigenous peoples.

• Early career challenges—including overt racism—fueled her drive to transform corporate Canada's approach to Indigenous employment.

• Indigenous recruitment and workforce strategies must focus on inclusion and retention first, not just hiring.

• Leadership plays a central role: reconciliation initiatives succeed when senior leaders deeply understand and prioritize them.

• Indigenous leadership brings a different worldview, rooted in servant leadership and cultural teachings, that organizations must recognize.

• Trust, relationships, and outreach are foundational to Indigenous hiring and inclusion success.

• Effective strategies are action-based: moving beyond statements of support to measurable results.

• Indigenous worldviews—like the Seven Sacred Teachings—can and should be embedded into leadership models.

• Deborah hopes her legacy is paving a sustainable path others can follow, ensuring Indigenous peoples are safe, respected, and able to thrive in Canada.

Guest Bio:

Deborah Green (Gopher) is a proud Nēhiyaw iskwêw (Cree Woman) from Kawacatoose and Piapot's First Nations in Saskatchewan who has emerged as one of Canada's most influential voices in Indigenous reconciliation and organizational transformation. With over 25 years of professional and personal lived expertise in Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI), Deborah has dedicated her career to breaking down systemic barriers and creating pathways for Indigenous economic participation and prosperity.

Currently serving as National Lead Specialist for Indigenous Workforce Development at Suncor Energy since 2018, Deborah leads the national Indigenous Workforce Development strategy, focusing on governance, advocacy, and development of workforce strategies that increase Indigenous representation, inclusion, leadership & career development, and retention. Her role involves collaborating directly with Indigenous communities to understand their needs, strengthen employment readiness, and create culturally appropriate hiring and retention strategies.

Deborah's career trajectory showcases her evolution from technical recruitment to becoming a transformational leader in Indigenous workforce development. Her groundbreaking work at Shell Canada from 2009-2017 as Senior Diversity Recruiter & Diversity Advisor/Strategist established her as a pioneer in the field—she was Shell's first full-time global resource dedicated to diversity recruitment. During her tenure, she increased Indigenous hiring from 1.0% to 4% and grew the Indigenous Employee Network from 20 to 200 employees, demonstrating her ability to create measurable change at scale.

As the Founder & Owner of Corporate Cree Consulting (2017-2018), Deborah provided specialized consulting services to bridge gaps between mainstream corporate culture and Indigenous worldviews, offering capacity building solutions for sustainable organizational transformation. Her expertise spans the full spectrum of organizational change, from developing comprehensive workforce diversity strategies to fostering inclusive work environments that enhance talent diversity, ensure retention, and hold leaders accountable for meaningful progress.

Her influence extends across all sectors of the Canadian economy, including private, public, non-profit, and government organizations, where she has cultivated an extensive network within diversity-focused entities. Through her work in relationship building, Strategy Framework & Policy development, keynote speaking, and Indigenous awareness training & education, Deborah has helped countless organizations move beyond performative gestures toward substantive change that creates real opportunities for Indigenous people.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links: Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Foward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Forward Together podcast, host Rod Miller engages with Scott Alanen, Vice President of Investment at the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation (AIOC). They discuss Scott's journey from traditional finance to advocating for Indigenous economic prosperity, the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in accessing capital, and the importance of trust in partnerships. Scott shares insights into the AIOC's mandate, successful projects like the Cascade Power Plant, and the evolving landscape of renewable energy and financing structures that support Indigenous participation in major projects. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration between industry and Indigenous communities, as well as the importance of capacity building and mentorship in finance for future generations.

Key Takeaways:

• Scott's journey to Indigenous economic advocacy was a random walk.
• Trust is foundational in working with Indigenous communities.
• The AIOC was established to provide loan guarantees for Indigenous investments.
• Challenges include capacity within First Nations and finding good opportunities.
• Industry collaboration is essential for successful partnerships.
• The Cascade Power Plant project was a significant achievement for AIOC.
• Access to capital remains a major barrier for Indigenous communities.
• Renewable energy presents both opportunities and challenges for Indigenous prosperity.
• Innovative financing structures can enhance Indigenous equity participation.
• Mentorship in finance is crucial for building Indigenous capacity.

Featured Guest: Scott Alanen

Scott Alanen is a high-energy senior executive and finance professional who has become a leading architect of Indigenous economic participation in Canada's energy transition and infrastructure development. With extensive experience across corporate finance, energy, and real estate sectors, Scott has distinguished himself as a passionate advocate for Indigenous economic sovereignty through strategic capital allocation and innovative financing structures.

Scott's most significant contribution to Indigenous prosperity has been structuring over $400 million of Indigenous debt and equity ownership in key infrastructure and assets, with a particular focus on renewable power generation. His expertise reached its pinnacle as a principal architect of the groundbreaking $1.5 billion Cascade Power project, in which six First Nations successfully acquired a significant equity stake—representing one of the largest Indigenous equity participations in Canadian energy infrastructure history.

His career spans diverse roles including Managing Director, VP Finance, and Chief Financial Officer across multiple industries, with previous experience in raising and allocating capital for pooled real estate mortgage funds, private equity funds, and startup exploration and production entities. Scott's operational experience extends beyond capital raising to include managing ongoing operations of energy companies, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of both the financial and operational aspects of major infrastructure projects.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links: Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Foward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

AIOC: www.theaioc.com Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Forward Together podcast, host Rod Miller engages in a heartfelt conversation with Jay Gould, founder of Story Foundry. Jay shares his journey of reconnecting with his Indigenous heritage and how it influences his work in storytelling. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and hope within Indigenous communities and the role of storytelling in bridging cultural divides. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced in Indigenous filmmaking, the responsibility of truth-telling, and advice for aspiring Indigenous creatives. Jay's passion for championing Indigenous stories shines through as he expresses his desire to mentor the next generation of filmmakers.

Key Takeaways:

• Jay Gould's journey of reconnecting with his Indigenous heritage is inspiring.
• Storytelling is a vital part of Indigenous culture and identity.
• Resilience and hope are common themes in Indigenous communities.
• Authenticity in storytelling is crucial for representation.
• There is an obligation to act justly on behalf of Indigenous people.
• Connecting through stories can break down cultural barriers.
• Indigenous filmmakers face unique challenges in the industry.
• Finding one's skill set is essential for success in the creative field.
• Mentorship for young Indigenous filmmakers is important for the future.
• The importance of sharing the truth about Indigenous history is paramount.

Featured Guest: Jay Gould

Jay Gould is the founder and owner of The Story Foundry, an award-winning video storytelling company based in Calgary, Alberta—located on Treaty 7 territory. As an Indigenous entrepreneur, Jay brings both personal heritage and professional expertise to his mission of connecting people through stories to "make the world better" through inspiring video and digital content. The Story Foundry serves clients across Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver, specializing in purpose-driven video production that helps organizations create authentic brand recognition, establish thought leadership, and invite meaningful audience participation into their stories.

Jay's journey to understanding his Indigenous roots adds a profound dimension to his storytelling work. His approach to video production is deeply rooted in purpose and impact, working with "clients that believe in making things better for all of us"—a philosophy that naturally flows from Indigenous values of community wellbeing and collective prosperity. His company operates on the understanding that "connecting people through stories opens unlimited possibilities," which directly connects to his own Indigenous heritage and the powerful tradition of oral storytelling and knowledge sharing that runs through Indigenous cultures.

The Story Foundry has produced diverse content ranging from original documentary series to community-focused projects, including work that amplifies underrepresented voices and creates space for authentic cultural narratives. Jay has developed an innovative subscription-based business model that makes professional video content accessible to businesses of all sizes, including Indigenous-owned enterprises and organizations working toward reconciliation.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

Resources & Links: Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Foward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link

The Story Foundry: www.storyfoundry.ca Explore the video library from The Story Foundry → https://vimeo.com/showcase/8834422 The Northern Star Project Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cs-7f9nC5uU

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In this episode of the Forward Together podcast, host Rod Miller speaks with Buffy, a proud member of the St. Theresa Point First Nation. Buffy shares her unique upbringing in the bush, emphasizing the importance of connection to nature and the cultural values of Indigenous life. She discusses her role as a matriarch, the responsibilities that come with it, and the significance of mentorship in Indigenous culture. The conversation highlights the need for investing in youth and the deep spiritual connection that defines true leadership within the community. In this conversation, Buffy shares her profound experiences as a matriarch, reflecting on the spiritual responsibilities that come with the role. She discusses the importance of leading by example, navigating leadership in challenging environments, and empowering the next generation. The conversation emphasizes the significance of authenticity in love and leadership, highlighting the need for vulnerability and connection within families and communities.

Key Takeaways:

• Buffy's upbringing in the bush shaped her understanding of life.
• Indigenous culture emphasizes connection to all living things.
• Words are medicine; they carry responsibility.
• Being a matriarch is a deep spiritual responsibility.
• Investing in youth is crucial for community growth.
• Cultural practices should not be diluted or misinterpreted.
• Mentorship is essential in Indigenous culture.
• A matriarch leads by example and serves the community.
• Self-awareness is key to personal and communal responsibility.
• True leadership comes from humility and love.
• Being a matriarch involves setting a spiritual tone for the family.
• Ceremony and spiritual practices can aid in healing and connection.
• Authenticity is essential for genuine love and leadership.
• Leadership is about observation and understanding your environment.
• Empowering the next generation is a key responsibility of a matriarch.
• It's important to maintain a balance between giving to others and self-care.
• True matriarchs create space for both men and women to thrive together.
• Engagement with Indigenous communities should be rooted in genuine contribution.
• Listening and observing are crucial in understanding community needs.
• The journey of personal growth is intertwined with family and community responsibilities.

Featured Guest: Buffy Handel

Buffy Handel, a proud member of St. Theresa Point First Nation in Manitoba, is an award-winning entrepreneur, artist, educator, and Executive Director of a thriving non-profit. She is celebrated for her innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary Indigenous performance as founder of the Aboriginal School of Dance, Manitoba's first professional dance studio dedicated to Indigenous arts. Buffy's leadership and mentorship have reached thousands of youth, and her work as a businesswoman and cultural custodian has transcended disciplines and borders—from Canada to Germany and beyond.

Buffy's journey demonstrates the power of blending tradition with modernity, creating a narrative that is both inspiring and essential in today's pursuit of economic reconciliation and diversity. She is recognized for her commitment to youth development, her holistic approach to mentorship, and her ability to bridge the worlds of business and culture with wisdom rooted in matriarchal teachings.

Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward.

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