Voices of Esquao

Institute for Advancement of Aboriginal Women - Esquao
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Empowering Indigenous Women Through Storytelling Voices of Esquao is a storytelling platform dedicated to amplifying the voices, experiences, and leadership of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit+ people. Produced by the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, this podcast shares lived truths, cultural knowledge, and conversations that matter — from advocacy and justice to healing, leadership, and community empowerment. Through thoughtful dialogue and real stories, we celebrate the role, value, and achievements of Indigenous women while building greater awareness of the work happening on the ground. Each episode highlights the programs, partnerships, and initiatives that are shaping positive outcomes and creating meaningful opportunities. Esquao stands at the forefront of breaking down barriers — shaping policy, collaborating with partners, and advancing solutions that strengthen families and communities. These are the voices leading change. These are the stories shaping the future.

Episodes

  1. Jul 20

    Episode 3: The Power of Indigenous Storytelling

    Stories have the power to connect us across generations, preserve culture, and inspire change. In this episode, we sit down with Kathleen McDermott, storyteller and documentary filmmaker, to explore the transformative role of Indigenous storytelling in building stronger communities and empowering future generations. Kathleen shares the inspiration behind her latest documentary, What We Carry, which premiered at the Edmonton International Film Festival and was featured at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Together, we discuss how stories preserve identity, nurture leadership, and create meaningful spaces for understanding, and connection. Whether you're passionate about film, culture, or the enduring power of storytelling, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into why the stories we carry matter. Production Credits: Host: Shauna Yatsallie Guest: Kathleen McDermott Producers: The Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women Editor: Shauna Yatsallie Mixing & mastering: Shauna Yatsallie  IT Support: Doug Yearwood, Four Winds & Associates ----- For the latest episode drops and updates, follow us on social media.  instagram.com/iaaw_ab www.facebook.com/esquao/ https://www.youtube.com/@TheVoicesofEsquaoPodcast This show is made possible by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. Information: Show: Voices of Esquao Published: July 20th, 2026 Episode: 3 Frequency: Updated Monthly Length: 33:31 min Rating: Clean

  2. May 11

    Episode 2: Voices of Leadership (Part 1)

    In this episode of Voices of Esquao, host Shauna Yatsallie is joined by Taylor McPherson—co-winner of Season 10 of The Amazing Race Canada—and Christina Russell to explore what leadership looks like through the lived experiences of Indigenous women.   Together, they discuss the importance of representation, the barriers Indigenous women continue to face, and how leadership rooted in community, culture, and resilience creates lasting change. Listeners will also gain insight and advice for stepping into leadership with confidence and purpose. Production Credits: Host: Shauna Yatsallie Produced by: Esquao, Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women Editor: Shauna Yatsallie Editorial support: Sandra Huculak  Mixing & mastering: Shauna Yatsallie  IT Support: Doug Yearwood, Four Winds & Associates ----- For the latest episode drops and updates, follow us on social media.  instagram.com/iaaw_ab www.facebook.com/esquao/ youtube.com/@TheVoicesofEsquaoPodcast This show is made possible by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.

  3. Mar 9

    Episode 1 (Part 2): Ongoing Vision - Where We Are, Where We're Headed

    In Part 2 of Episode 1, guest host Jeannette LaBrie continues her conversation with CEO Rachelle Venne, reflecting on where Esquao stands today and how the organization has grown into a strong voice supporting Indigenous women and families across Alberta.  They discuss the impact of Esquao's programs, partnerships, and initiatives such as the Esquao Awards, which celebrate the leadership and achievements of Indigenous women. The conversation highlights the organization's continued commitment to advocacy, education, and community support.  Rachelle also speaks about the challenges that remain and shares her vision for the future—one where Indigenous women walk with dignity, free of barriers, and where storytelling and community leadership continue to inspire meaningful change. ----- Production Credits: Guest Host: Jeannette LaBrie Producers: Shauna Yatsallie, Jeannette LaBrie, Rachelle Venne Editor: Shauna Yatsallie Editorial support: Sandra Huculak  Mixing & mastering: Shauna Yatsallie  IT Support: Doug Yearwood, Four Winds & Associates ----- For the latest episode drops and updates, follow us on social media.  instagram.com/iaaw_ab www.facebook.com/esquao/ http://www.youtube.com/@TheVoicesofEsquaoPodcast This show is made possible by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.

  4. Mar 2

    Episode 1: The Early Days of Esquao (Part 1)

    In Part One of our debut episode, guest host Jeannette LaBrie sits down with CEO Rachelle Venne to reflect on the powerful beginnings of Esqauo, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women. This conversation looks back at Esquao's earliest days, a time marked by determination, sacrifice, and an unshakeable belief in uplifting Indigenous women. Rachelle shares stories of financial and operational challenges, the women who carried the mission forward, and the resilience that laid the foundation for what Esquao would become. Part 1 is a tribute to the strength, vision, and community spirit that sparked a movement, and to the enduring commitment to Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people that continues to guide Esquao today. Production Credits: Guest Host: Jeannette LaBrie Producers: Shauna Yatsallie, Jeannette LaBrie, Rachelle Venne Editor: Shauna Yatsallie Editorial support: Sandra Huculak  Mixing & mastering: Shauna Yatsallie  IT Support: Doug Yearwood, Four Winds & Associates For the latest episode drops and updates, follow us on social media.  instagram.com/iaaw_ab www.facebook.com/esquao/ http://www.youtube.com/@TheVoicesofEsquaoPodcast  This show is made possible by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.

  • 4 Episodes

About

Empowering Indigenous Women Through Storytelling Voices of Esquao is a storytelling platform dedicated to amplifying the voices, experiences, and leadership of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit+ people. Produced by the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, this podcast shares lived truths, cultural knowledge, and conversations that matter — from advocacy and justice to healing, leadership, and community empowerment. Through thoughtful dialogue and real stories, we celebrate the role, value, and achievements of Indigenous women while building greater awareness of the work happening on the ground. Each episode highlights the programs, partnerships, and initiatives that are shaping positive outcomes and creating meaningful opportunities. Esquao stands at the forefront of breaking down barriers — shaping policy, collaborating with partners, and advancing solutions that strengthen families and communities. These are the voices leading change. These are the stories shaping the future.

Information

  • Creator
    Institute for Advancement of Aboriginal Women - Esquao
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    4
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026
  • Show Website
    Voices of Esquao