In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, host Dallas Smith is joined by Art Wilson, a Councillor of We Wai Kai Nation, and the Referrals Office Manager at the Nanwakolas Council in Cambell River. Art has more than two decades of experience in the forestry sector and received a Natural Resource Technology Diploma and Forestry Certificate from Nicola Valley Institute of Technology in 2003. 

Join Dallas and Art in this engaging discussion, as Art shares some key successes in We Wai Kai Nation’s economic development, showcasing the importance of Indigenous-owned businesses in strengthening Indigenous communities and ensuring the protection of culturally significant sites. Dallas further explores how Indigenous participation in resource industries not only benefits communities economically, but also plays a key role in advancing responsible land management practices. 

They also discuss some of the urgent issues facing Indigenous participation in B.C.’s forestry industry today, in context of the United Steelworkers, Local 1-1937 strike. Dallas highlights the need to combat misinformation with culturally informed education and open dialogue. 

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In the exciting launch of Season 3 of "Rez Dog Walkers," host Dallas Smith welcomes back returning guest Isaiah Robinson for a thought-provoking discussion on pressing issues surrounding First Nations rights, reconciliation, and the impact of historical injustices. The episode dives deep into the ongoing conversations about residential schools, the importance of education, and the need for respectful dialogue in addressing these sensitive topics. 

Dallas and Isaiah reflect on their experiences at the recent BC Indigenous Resource Opportunities Conference, highlighting the significance of networking and collaboration among Indigenous leaders and government officials. They tackle the fear-mongering surrounding First Nations reconciliation, particularly in light of recent land returns and park access discussions, emphasizing the need for common sense and understanding in public discourse. 

As they share personal stories and insights, the duo underscores the importance of investing in Indigenous communities and the positive outcomes that can arise from resource development. They advocate for a future where First Nations can thrive economically while honoring their cultural heritage and addressing the legacies of colonialism. 

Join Dallas and Isaiah in this engaging episode as they navigate the complexities of reconciliation, the role of education, and the path forward for Indigenous communities in Canada. Tune in to "Rez Dog Walkers" for a season filled with meaningful conversations and a commitment to fostering understanding and respect. 

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In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, we are pleased to welcome back Isaiah Robinson, Deputy Chief Councillor for Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation and General Manager of Kitasoo Development Corporation. 

When he last came onto the podcast, Isaiah shared his experience and insight into navigating complex relationships between activists, government, and communities in the aquaculture industry. This episode naturally extends that discussion, as we delve once again into Indigenous participation in industry, this time in the wake of a federal election that put the Canadian government to the test. 

Join us as we discuss some of the most pressing issues faced by all Canadians, including housing and economic development, and the challenges and opportunities this presents to Indigenous communities. Isaiah highlights the importance of fully integrating environmental protection with economic growth, as well as some of the unique challenges his Nation faces, and the importance of trusting the knowledge and expertise of individual Nations when making decisions that impact those communities. 

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In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, we are honored to welcome former Member of the Legislative Assembly, George Abbott. In his 17 years as an MLA in the Shuswap riding, George took on a plethora of responsibilities, from Minister of Health to Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. Since leaving government in 2013, George has utilized his experience in various capacities, including as a consultant, a PhD student, and the former chair of the Institute for Health System Transformation and Sustainability. He is currently the chair of the Board of Technical Safety BC and is a government-appointed Commissioner on the BC Treaty Commission. 

Join us as we discuss the role of indigenous perspectives in politics following a challenging provincial election and pay tribute to a good friend and mentor, the late Stan Hagen. George also discusses his work on the BC Treaty Commission and his upcoming book, Unceded, a compelling look at the tumultuous history of the B.C. government’s relationship with Indigenous peoples, and why it matters in contemporary reconciliation efforts. 

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Join us in the studio as we welcome Linda Coady, former President and CEO of the BC Council of Forest Industries, for a compelling conversation about the development of reconciliation and joint solutions programs in British Columbia’s forestry industry. Linda brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as Chief Sustainability Officer at Enbridge Inc., Vice-President of Sustainability for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games, and Vice-President for the Pacific Region at WWF-Canada. She shares key lessons learned throughout her extensive career in the forestry sector.

Linda reflects on the legacy of the 1990s War in the Woods in coastal B.C., examining the shift from viewing reconciliation as a concept to embracing it as a practice. She discusses how those lessons remain relevant today in the face of modern economic and political uncertainties, from the coast to the interior of the province. Emphasizing joint solutions pathways, Linda underscores the importance of treating conservation and reconciliation as equally vital alongside economic stability and predictability.

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Join us live from Penticton as we welcome the Honourable Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, for an engaging conversation about the current state of forestry in British Columbia. Minister Parmer shares his journey from a young political enthusiast to a key player in the government, discussing the challenges and opportunities he faces in his role. 

He dives into the complexities of timber reviews, softwood lumber disputes, and the importance of reconciliation in forestry practices. With a focus on building relationships across the political spectrum, Ravi emphasizes the need for collaboration to ensure a sustainable future for workers and communities. 

Tune in to hear about his experiences, the impact of mentorship from figures like John Horgan, and the exciting initiatives underway to revitalize the forestry sector. 

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In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers podcast, host Dallas Smith welcomes Larry Johnson, the president of Nuu-chah-nulth Seafood Development Corporation. They discuss the importance of collaboration between First Nations, resource developers, and governments in British Columbia and across Canada. Larry shares his background, including his upbringing in Bamfield and his journey into leadership roles within his community.

The conversation delves into the history and evolution of Nuu-chah-nulth Seafood, which began in 2003. Larry explains how the organization has grown and adapted over the years, including the significant acquisition of St. Jean's Seafood in 2015. He emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional values and principles into modern business practices, highlighting the need for economic reconciliation to support First Nations communities.

Dallas and Larry also touch on the challenges facing the fishing industry, including climate change and the impact of social media on public discourse. They discuss the need for First Nations to work together and share knowledge to build sustainable economies. Larry expresses hope for the next generation, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and collaboration in navigating the complexities of modern resource management.

The episode concludes with a discussion about the future of Nuu-chah-nulth Seafood, including the growth of the Gratitude brand and the potential for further collaboration among First Nations to tell their collective stories in the marketplace.

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In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers podcast, host Dallas Smith welcomes his longtime friend and esteemed leader, Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik), to discuss the collaborative efforts between First Nations, resource developers, and governments in British Columbia and across Canada. The conversation delves into the importance of healthy First Nations communities and the benefits of strategic partnerships. 

Robert shares his journey into leadership, beginning with his early experiences attending band meetings and the influence of his father and other prominent leaders. He reflects on his tenure as Chief Councillor of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations, highlighting key achievements such as the treaty process and the establishment of a forestry company. Robert emphasizes the significance of focusing on small, achievable goals to create lasting change within the community. 

The discussion also touches on the legacy of former Premier John Horgan and the importance of maintaining relationships across political lines to advance First Nations interests. Robert introduces Iskum Investments, a partnership among over 20 First Nations aiming to drive economic reconcilliation.  

Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by First Nations leaders, the evolving landscape of resource management, and the vital role of mentorship and community engagement in fostering economic growth and cultural preservation.

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