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, we’re joined by Paul Robitaille, who brings extensive experience in advancing Métis rights, relationship-building, and socioeconomic development. Paul discusses the importance of supporting Métis owned businesses and offers practical advice for entrepreneurs, business owners, and those looking for additional resources to help support them. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or someone who wants to support Métis businesses, this conversation is filled with insights and inspiration.

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.

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 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 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.

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

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

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!