I was a guest on this popular podcast 🔥
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Recently, I had the honor of being a guest on Tara Henley's "Lean Out" podcast, where we delved into various topics that resonate deeply with both of us.
As someone who has been navigating the intersections of Indigenous leadership, media, and social issues, the opportunity to share my journey and perspectives on Tara's platform was both humbling and invigorating.
We began the conversation by discussing my upbringing, which was shaped by the Sixties Scoop and the generational impact of residential schools. These experiences have profoundly influenced my path, pushing me to pursue law and, eventually, to start the Bigger Than Me podcast. This platform has allowed me to explore complex social issues with a focus on thoughtful dialogue, something that I believe is crucial in today’s polarized media landscape.
One of the central themes of our discussion was the role of media in addressing controversial issues. We talked about my approach to handling sensitive topics, such as the potential unmarked graves at the Kamloops Residential School and the opioid crisis. It's crucial, in my view, to approach these subjects with both compassion and a commitment to uncovering the truth. This balanced approach is something I strive to maintain on my podcast, where I aim to foster conversations that are both informative and respectful.
We also touched on the importance of applying scrutiny to First Nations governance, a topic that often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves in mainstream media. I shared my experiences as a council member with the Chawathil First Nation, highlighting the challenges and rewards of working to improve housing conditions in my community.
Transparency and accountability are vital in any governance structure, and this is something I believe should be emphasized more in media coverage of Indigenous issues.
Another key topic was the current state of young men in society and the broader implications of this trend. We discussed the importance of positive role models and the influence of figures like Jordan Peterson and David Goggins on today’s youth.
Despite the challenges young men face, I remain hopeful that with the right guidance and support, they can rise to their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.
Throughout our conversation, the recurring theme was the need for nuanced, balanced dialogue in media. In a time when algorithms often reward outrage and division, it’s more important than ever to create spaces where complex issues can be discussed calmly and thoughtfully. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this kind of dialogue on both my podcast and platforms like Lean Out.
As I look forward to guest hosting Lean Out next week, I’m excited to continue these important conversations. I believe that by bringing diverse perspectives to the table, we can better understand the issues that affect us all and work towards solutions that are informed, compassionate, and just.