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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