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John Spence - Grandfather Stories, Art and Growth
On this episode of Our Storytellers, we are joined by Squamish artist and carver, John Spence.
John’s story is a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for healing and transformation. In this raw and honest conversation, he takes us back to his childhood on the Capilano reserve, sharing memories of playing tree tag in the vine maples and fishing day and night on the river. He reflects on the deep influence of his grandfather, the late Chief Simon Baker, who taught him culture, spirituality, and the importance of kindness.
John also opens up about his journey through intergenerational trauma, anger, and addiction. From making amends for past mistakes (including a memorable story involving a stolen generator and a carved raven) to passing on the carving tradition to his five sons, John’s journey is one of resilience, redemption, and deep love for his family.
This episode is part of our special series supported by the Indigenous Screen Office, highlighting voices connected to the Squamish Nation. We are incredibly grateful to John for his vulnerability, his humour, and for sharing his powerful message of hope.
This podcast is brought to you by the Indigenous Screen Office:
https://iso-bea.ca/
ISO’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indigenousscreen/
X: https://x.com/screen_office
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISO.BEA/
Follow Our Socials
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ourstorytellers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourstorytellers/?hl=en%E2%81%A0
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Our-Storytellers/61551840299922/?_rdr
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAOD4F24xePk1OcYxInkS1w
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of Indian residential schools, physical and mental abuse, addiction, and incarceration. Please take care while listening. If you need support, the Hope for Wellness helpline offers immediate help 24/7 at 1-855-242-3310 or online at hopeforwellness.ca.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:52) Childhood
(07:44) Parents
(14:09) Chief Simon Baker
(19:39) Memories of Grandmother Emily
(39:30) Environmental Changes
(52:00) Incarceration
(01:01:35) Ceremony
(01:09:49) Understanding Addiction & Trauma
(01:49:51) Advice for the Next Generation
(02:05:19) Closing
View all episodes
By Our StorytellersOn this episode of Our Storytellers, we are joined by Squamish artist and carver, John Spence.
John’s story is a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for healing and transformation. In this raw and honest conversation, he takes us back to his childhood on the Capilano reserve, sharing memories of playing tree tag in the vine maples and fishing day and night on the river. He reflects on the deep influence of his grandfather, the late Chief Simon Baker, who taught him culture, spirituality, and the importance of kindness.
John also opens up about his journey through intergenerational trauma, anger, and addiction. From making amends for past mistakes (including a memorable story involving a stolen generator and a carved raven) to passing on the carving tradition to his five sons, John’s journey is one of resilience, redemption, and deep love for his family.
This episode is part of our special series supported by the Indigenous Screen Office, highlighting voices connected to the Squamish Nation. We are incredibly grateful to John for his vulnerability, his humour, and for sharing his powerful message of hope.
This podcast is brought to you by the Indigenous Screen Office:
https://iso-bea.ca/
ISO’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indigenousscreen/
X: https://x.com/screen_office
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISO.BEA/
Follow Our Socials
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ourstorytellers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourstorytellers/?hl=en%E2%81%A0
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Our-Storytellers/61551840299922/?_rdr
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAOD4F24xePk1OcYxInkS1w
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of Indian residential schools, physical and mental abuse, addiction, and incarceration. Please take care while listening. If you need support, the Hope for Wellness helpline offers immediate help 24/7 at 1-855-242-3310 or online at hopeforwellness.ca.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:52) Childhood
(07:44) Parents
(14:09) Chief Simon Baker
(19:39) Memories of Grandmother Emily
(39:30) Environmental Changes
(52:00) Incarceration
(01:01:35) Ceremony
(01:09:49) Understanding Addiction & Trauma
(01:49:51) Advice for the Next Generation
(02:05:19) Closing