What does it really mean to tell someone else’s story? Where’s the line between representation and harm? And how can creators move beyond good intentions to create work that’s truly respectful and authentic?

On this episode of First Frame, hosts Jennifer Park and Cameron Zinger explore the responsibilities that come along with telling Indigenous stories, where voice, consent, and collaboration are essential from the very beginning. To help them unpack this nuanced topic, they’re joined by writer and filmmaker Shaelyn Johnston, who shares practical, experience-driven insights on how to approach this work with care using powerful examples from her own career. From the principle of “no stories about us without us”, to the importance of building real relationships, their conversation breaks down common missteps and what doing it right actually looks like. Shaelyn also offers a behind-the-scenes look at her own projects, and how authenticity is built through lived experience, language, and community.

Timecodes: 

(3:04) “Nothing about us without us”

(3:42) The harm of inauthentic storytelling

(4:29) What authentic Indigenous filmmaking looks lik

(8:10) Why collaboration must start early

(9:49) Biggest storytelling mistakes creators make

(12:02) Tokenism vs real representation

(17:50) Reciprocity with elders & knowledge keepers

(19:46) Indigenous storytelling protocols & resources

(21:40) Where the industry still falls short

(23:36) Final advice for creators