Rez Dog Walkers

Dallas Smith
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

Rez Dog Walkers podcast provides an intimate look at Indigenous land management, sustainability, politics and community on the West Coast. Hosted by Dallas Smith, President of the Nanwakolas Council, the show features candid conversations with Indigenous leaders, politicians, business leaders, researchers and community members. Rez Dog Walkers offers an inside perspective on Indigenous issues and opportunities. Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and ideas expressed by the guests and speakers on the Rez Dog Walkers podcast are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the producers, or affiliates. While we encourage open dialogue and diverse perspectives, we are not responsible for any opinions or statements made by individuals on this show. Listeners should always seek their own sources and draw their own conclusions.   Rez Dog Walkers was produced in partnership with Dallas Smith and Erica Roberts, C3 Alliance, and Oh Boy Studios.   Rez Dog Walkers Artist, Fisher Roberts, Wei Wai Kum and We Wai Kai Nation  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. APR 8

    Building Relationships: Doug Caul on Reconciliation and Leadership in Government

    In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, host Dallas Smith sits down with Doug Caul, former Deputy Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Government of B.C., for a thoughtful conversation on Indigenous economic development, leadership, and the evolving role of government-to-government partnerships and reconciliation in British Columbia’s resource sector.  Drawing on his experience working in various capacities as a negotiator and Deputy Minister in the B.C. government, Doug reflects on the importance of strong leadership and the need to create conditions for innovation. He emphasizes the commonalities between Indigenous communities and other levels of government as an essential starting point for understanding the needs of communities and stresses the importance of addressing the assumptions and biases that challenge economic development.  Dallas and Doug explore the changing landscape of reconciliation in B.C., highlighting the need for clear expectations between governments, and the risks of misinformation and fear-driven narratives. They reflect on some of the prominent mentors and role models that have helped shape relations between Indigenous communities and the provincial government, as well as some major developments in the history of reconciliation in B.C.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 4m

  2. MAR 24

    Rethinking Forest Management: A Conversation on the Future of Forestry in B.C. with Shannon Janzen

    In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, host Dallas Smith sits down with Shannon Janzen, former Vice President at Western Forest Products and a key contributor to the recent independent report, From Conflict to Care: BC’s Forest Future, for an honest and candid conversation on the evolution and current state of B.C.’s forestry sector.  Drawing on her wide range of experience in forestry, from her time working in logging camps to executive leadership, Shannon reflects on the challenges, opportunities, and shifting contexts of the forestry industry today. She also shares some lessons learned from her time with Iskum Investments and as a consultant working with Indigenous communities in business development, emphasizing the massive potential for collaboration between Indigenous communities to overcome barriers in the sector and to and bring life to previously neglected opportunities.  Dallas and Shannon also discuss the recent report, identifying some of the key conflicts and challenges impacting the forestry sector. They emphasize the growing role of Indigenous-led business development and the importance of including affected communities in economic decision-making. The discussion also examines the limitations of outdated legislation and the need to incorporate modern technology and values into management approaches.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 9m

  3. FEB 12

    BC Natural Resources Forum Rez Dog Walkers Luncheon: Indigenous Leaders Discuss Collaboration and Sustainable Development

    In this special episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, host Dallas Smith moderates a panel discussion with Indigenous leaders President Kerry Carlick of Tahltan Central Government, Chief Councillor John Jack of Huu-ay-aht First Nations, and Chief Dolleen Logan of Lheidli T’enneh First Nation. Recorded live as part of the 23rd Annual BC Natural Resources Forum, this discussion explores how Indigenous communities are navigating a polarized political environment, emphasizing the importance of countering misinformation and fearmongering surrounding Indigenous rights and governance. Together these Indigenous leaders examine the role of legislation such as DRIPA as a framework for engagement with Indigenous communities and the importance of bringing government, industry and Indigenous communities together to collaborate on the most pressing issues facing the resource sector and to identify areas of mutual interest. Panelists share firsthand insight into the nature of collective rights and the importance of trust and friendship in building successful partnerships. Drawing on examples from their own communities, they highlight the steps Indigenous communities are taking to advance the priorities of their communities while keeping the principles of sustainable development and land conservation at the centre of economic growth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    58 min

  4. JAN 14

    Chief John Jack: A Discussion on Indigenous Rights and Governance in B.C.’s Resource Sector

    In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers podcast, host Dallas Smith sits down with Chief John Jack, Chief Councillor of Huu-ay-aht First Nations, for a wide-ranging and candid conversation on Indigenous governance, resource development, and reconciliation.    They discuss the balance between activism, economic development, and Indigenous land stewardship in the context of an ongoing forestry strike. Chief John Jack shares how revenue from natural resource projects is benefiting Indigenous communities as it is reinvested directly into community programs, services, and infrastructure to support the needs of communities, from health care to administrative capacity-building. He emphasizes the importance of having open conversations about balancing environmental and cultural heritage concerns with the economic imperative and letting community values such as respect, unity, and responsibility to future generations guide economic decision-making.  The discussion also explores the evolving relationship between elected and hereditary leadership and the need for Indigenous nations to define their own systems of governance. They also delve into the ongoing struggles posed by political polarization and misinformation in the aftermath of the Cowichan ruling. Chief John Jack underscores the importance of building a more inclusive, resilient society that respects the rights of Indigenous people.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 9m

  5. JAN 2

    Building Self-Sufficient Communities: Chief Ronnie Chickite on Forestry and Wildlife Management

    In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, Host Dallas Smith leads an engaging discussion on Indigenous participation in forestry and wildlife management with Chief Ronnie Chickite, Chief Councillor of We Wai Kai Nation. Chief Ronnie shares some of the exciting economic and administrative opportunities emerging in We Wai Kai Nation and some of the unique solutions required to ensure the necessary infrastructure to support increased growth and development in the community. Dallas and Chief Ronnie touch on the ongoing USW strike, emphasizing the importance of allowing Indigenous people the opportunity to speak for themselves and to combat false narratives about Indigenous participation in B.C.’s resource sectors. They also delve into the importance of responsible wildlife management, particularly when it comes to elk hunting, to prevent overharvesting. Chief Ronnie highlights the value of traditional management practices as an essential aspect of long-term resource stability. Dallas stresses the role of collaboration between nations to build self-sufficient communities and to diversify communities’ approaches to stewardship. They also explore the important role that younger generations play in strengthening communities by facilitating the transfer of knowledge and cultural traditions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    42 min

  6. 12/17/2025

    Healing Through Dialogue: Addressing the Impact of Indigenous Trauma

    In this thought-provoking episode of Rez Dog Walkers, our host Dallas Smith delves into the complex and sensitive topic of residential schools and their lasting impact on Indigenous communities in Canada. Drawing from personal experiences and the stories of loved ones, Dallas expresses frustration over the resurgence of debates questioning the reality of residential schools and the traumas they inflicted. He highlights the importance of acknowledging the past while fostering dialogue for healing and reconciliation. The episode also critiques the political landscape, where some individuals exploit the history of residential schools for their agendas, further complicating the path toward understanding and collaboration. The host emphasizes the need for allies to support Indigenous voices without politicizing their struggles and advocates for a collective effort to move forward. Listeners are invited to reflect on the generational trauma caused by residential schools and the ongoing efforts to build healthier, sustainable communities. This episode serves as a heartfelt call to action for understanding, respect, and the importance of turning the page on a painful history while ensuring that future generations are not burdened by the past. Tune in for an emotional yet enlightening discussion that aims to bridge gaps and foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous issues in contemporary society. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min

  7. 11/18/2025

    Rising Up Together: Discussing the Future of B.C. Forestry with Makenzie Leine

    In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, host Dallas Smith sits down with Makenzie Leine, Deputy Minister of Forests in B.C., for a dynamic conversation on the future of forestry and the evolving role of Indigenous stewardship and engagement in B.C.’s resource industries.  Makenzie has a wealth of experience in the private sector of forestry. With a unique perspective and insight into the industry, this prepared her for the role of Deputy Minister. She shares some of the key lessons learned from her time in forestry, including the importance of building relationships based on trust, and the value of diverse voices at the decision-making table to find long-term, resilient solutions.  Dallas and Makenzie explore some of the most pressing issues facing B.C.’s forestry sector today, touching on the need to balance conservation and growth in the face of economic uncertainties. Makenzie highlights the importance of transparent partnerships, flexible systems, and solutions-oriented dialogue. She also stresses the role of healthy Indigenous communities in benefiting the province as a whole.  Listeners will gain insight into the changing landscape of B.C.’s forestry sector, from the perspective of a current senior member of B.C.’s bureaucracy with a background in industry.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    51 min

  8. 11/04/2025

    Reconciliation and Resource Development: A Conversation with Hon. Christy Clark

    In this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, we are honoured to welcome Hon. Christy Clark, former Premier of British Columbia for a powerful and heartfelt conversation on resource development in B.C.  Christy reflects on her time as Premier and her efforts to build meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities, emphasizing the importance of investing in Indigenous communities as a foundation for reconciliation.  Dallas and Christy discuss the potential of Canada’s resource sector in the context of an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape. They emphasize the need to balance Indigenous-led conservation efforts with the expansion of resource industries and infrastructure to meet the needs of communities and create new jobs.  They also explore pressing topics such as the politics of resource development, from fish farming to pipelines. Christy offers candid insights on bridging the political divide through practical solutions that strengthen both communities and the economy. Christy emphasizes the importance of giving Indigenous people the tools to invest in their communities and the benefits that arise from empowering Indigenous participation in the resource economy.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 14m
See All (30)

About

Rez Dog Walkers podcast provides an intimate look at Indigenous land management, sustainability, politics and community on the West Coast. Hosted by Dallas Smith, President of the Nanwakolas Council, the show features candid conversations with Indigenous leaders, politicians, business leaders, researchers and community members. Rez Dog Walkers offers an inside perspective on Indigenous issues and opportunities. Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and ideas expressed by the guests and speakers on the Rez Dog Walkers podcast are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the producers, or affiliates. While we encourage open dialogue and diverse perspectives, we are not responsible for any opinions or statements made by individuals on this show. Listeners should always seek their own sources and draw their own conclusions.   Rez Dog Walkers was produced in partnership with Dallas Smith and Erica Roberts, C3 Alliance, and Oh Boy Studios.   Rez Dog Walkers Artist, Fisher Roberts, Wei Wai Kum and We Wai Kai Nation  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Dallas Smith
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Michaela Bub
  • Show Website
    Rez Dog Walkers

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