Rez Dog Walkers Dallas Smith

Join host, Dallas Smith and his guest, Mike McDonald as they have an insightful discussion about the growing participation of Indigenous peoples in mainstream politics across Canada. Hear their perspectives on notable First Nations leaders like Frank Calder and Jody Wilson-Raybould who paved the way. Learn about the experiences of Indigenous candidates running for office in British Columbia, including Dallas' own 2017 campaign. Discover the complex dynamics around forming a First Nations political party within BC's political system. And gain insights into the future of Indigenous representation, as more young people are inspired to get involved in leadership. Tune in for a thought-provoking view into the changing landscape of Indigenous participation in the political process. 
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Join host Dallas Smith as he sits down with the remarkable Miles Richardson, the youngest president ever to lead the Haida Nation. In this captivating episode, Miles shares his inspiring journey from his roots in Haida Gwaii to being encouraged to enter Haida politics in his 20s and eventually becoming a pivotal figure in Indigenous politics and advocacy.  
Discover how Miles spearheaded the establishment of crucial governing structures and proudly issued Haida passports, symbolizing citizenship and sovereignty. Get ready for a riveting tale as he recounts his journey to Paris with Bill Reid's iconic canoe. Then, Miles opens up about the difficult decision to renounce Canadian citizenship in response to government demands on Indigenous peoples. Even after losing a close federal election in 2004, Richardson remains dedicated to advancing Indigenous leadership and economic development. Tune in to hear this insightful leader's perspective on advocating for his people throughout a remarkable career path. 

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Join host Dallas Smith and his esteemed guest, Wade Grant on a reflective journey through the intricate landscape of Indigenous affairs and government relations. In this episode, Wade Grant, deeply embedded in Indigenous affairs, shares insights into his current roles and responsibilities. Together, they explore the evolving dynamics of reconciliation between First Nations and the BC government over recent decades, highlighting positive strides and symbolic gestures marking a new era. 
From the swearing-in of David Eby at Musqueam to the importance of consensus-building among nations, Wade and Dallas delve into the critical need for inclusive decision-making processes that honor the voices of all communities. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, they underscore the profound inter-generational and familial connections that weave through the fabric of BC's First Nations. 
Tune in for a captivating dialogue that navigates the complexities of Indigenous governance, reconciliation, and the enduring bonds that unite communities across time and space. 

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On this episode of the Rez Dog Walkers Podcast, host Dallas Smith sits down with Kitasoo Nation Deputy Chief Counselor Isaiah Robinson and Cermaq Canada Managing Director David Kimiele for an in-depth discussion on the opportunities and challenges facing the aquaculture industry in British Columbia. With wild salmon stocks in decline, First Nations like Kitasu Hei see aquaculture as a path to economic development and self-determination. Isaiah shares how salmon farming has benefited his community since the 1990s, while also allowing them to protect lands and waters. Dave explains how Cermaq is working to rebuild trust with First Nations and incorporate traditional knowledge into operations. 
This candid conversation covers the science around fish farms, the need for nation-to-nation talks, building relationships between industry and Indigenous peoples, and finding balanced approaches to resource development that consider economic, environmental and social factors. Join us as we dive into the complex dynamics shaping the future of sustainable aquaculture in BC.

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As the annual BC Indigenous Resource Opportunities Conference gears up for another impactful gathering from April 24th to 26th, host Dallas Smith engages in a reflective conversation with Sarah Weber, CEO of C3 Alliance, the esteemed host of the event. Join them as they delve into the conference's transformative journey since its inception in 2009. 
From humble beginnings with a regional focus, the BC IROC has blossomed into a province-wide forum, amplifying indigenous voices and fostering crucial dialogues on resource development and management.  
Tune in as Dallas and Sarah share their pride in the conference's pivotal role in building bridges and facilitating constructive conversations. Looking to the future, they outline their commitment to fostering partnerships, driving pragmatic solutions, and continuing to provide a platform for meaningful relationship building. Don't miss this insightful episode on the evolution and impact of the BC Indigenous Resource Opportunities Conference! 

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On this week’s episode of the Rez Dog Walkers podcast, Dallas Smith sits down with Chief Ronnie Chickite of the We Wai Kai Nation and Katherine Gordon, author of This Place is Who We Are, featuring stories of Indigenous leadership, resilience, and connection to homelands in the Great Bear Rainforest. Dallas and his guests delve into discussions about indigenous economic development, traditional governance, land management, as well as experiences with efforts towards reconciliation. They talk about Chief Ronnie's work creating businesses in his community and how the first Indigenous owned Starbucks came to be. Then, Katherine's shares some insights into her new book, and the process and challenges of bringing those stories to life, as well as collaborative projects like the Great Bear Sea initiative to protect marine environments. Tune in as this week’s guests provide compelling perspectives and updates on progress in their indigenous communities.  
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