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. 

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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 The discussion also examines the limitations of outdated legislation and the need to incorporate modern technology and values into management approaches. 

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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Join Dallas and Garry as they celebrate the progress Indigenous communities have made in advocating for their participation in the resource sector. They also consider some of the challenges B.C.’s coastal communities continue to face, such as navigating the tension between economy and conservation, responding to developments such as the proposed revival of the Northern Gateway pipeline project, and increased regulatory responsibilities. 

Drawing from his experiences working with Indigenous communities on a bureaucratic level, Garry highlights the importance of incrementally pursuing goals for long-term change and discusses resource planning at the technical, bureaucratic and decision-making levels. 

Listeners will gain insight into the evolving role of Indigenous communities and leadership in B.C’s resource sector and the ongoing process of establishing and improving government-to-government relations in B.C. from a bureaucratic perspective. 

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Join host Dallas Smith and Stewart as they discuss recent developments in a wide range of resource industries, from aquaculture to LNG. They highlight the importance of forums like IPSS and BCNRF in creating venues for sharing stories and creating valuable opportunities for development. Stewart shares some of the lessons he has learned from working with Indigenous communities, particularly the need for non-Indigenous actors to listen to the needs of Indigenous communities first before proposing solutions. 

They also emphasize several insights from Get It Done BC, a forum hosted by Resource Works at the recent Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Convention that addressed key issues facing B.C.’s natural resource sector, including the rural-urban divide and the need for close collaboration between Indigenous communities and municipalities. 

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Join Dallas Smith and Brian in this heartfelt conversation as they draw from their experiences in aquaculture and reminisce over the changes and developments they have witnessed first-hand in the resource industries of coastal B.C. They highlight advancements in reconciliation and Indigenous participation in industry as Indigenous communities have found their voice in the resource sector, showcasing the powerful relationships that can be built through open dialogue and collaboration. 

They discuss some of the complexities of the dialogue surrounding B.C. salmon farming, stressing the importance of synthesizing the existing science in a way that is easily accessible to Indigenous communities and other industry actors. 

Brian also shares his insights into the need for greater innovation in B.C. aquaculture, highlighting some of the exciting developments in salmon farming globally. 

For more details on the Indigenous Resource Opportunities Conference, being held June 3 -5, 2026, please visit www.bciroc.ca

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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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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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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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Join us as we discuss the role of indigenous perspectives in politics following a challenging provincial election and pay tribute to a good friend and mentor, the late Stan Hagen. George also discusses his work on the BC Treaty Commission and his upcoming book, Unceded, a compelling look at the tumultuous history of the B.C. government’s relationship with Indigenous peoples, and why it matters in contemporary reconciliation efforts. 

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Linda reflects on the legacy of the 1990s War in the Woods in coastal B.C., examining the shift from viewing reconciliation as a concept to embracing it as a practice. She discusses how those lessons remain relevant today in the face of modern economic and political uncertainties, from the coast to the interior of the province. Emphasizing joint solutions pathways, Linda underscores the importance of treating conservation and reconciliation as equally vital alongside economic stability and predictability.

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He dives into the complexities of timber reviews, softwood lumber disputes, and the importance of reconciliation in forestry practices. With a focus on building relationships across the political spectrum, Ravi emphasizes the need for collaboration to ensure a sustainable future for workers and communities. 

Tune in to hear about his experiences, the impact of mentorship from figures like John Horgan, and the exciting initiatives underway to revitalize the forestry sector. 

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The conversation delves into the history and evolution of Nuu-chah-nulth Seafood, which began in 2003. Larry explains how the organization has grown and adapted over the years, including the significant acquisition of St. Jean's Seafood in 2015. He emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional values and principles into modern business practices, highlighting the need for economic reconciliation to support First Nations communities.

Dallas and Larry also touch on the challenges facing the fishing industry, including climate change and the impact of social media on public discourse. They discuss the need for First Nations to work together and share knowledge to build sustainable economies. Larry expresses hope for the next generation, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and collaboration in navigating the complexities of modern resource management.

The episode concludes with a discussion about the future of Nuu-chah-nulth Seafood, including the growth of the Gratitude brand and the potential for further collaboration among First Nations to tell their collective stories in the marketplace.

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Robert shares his journey into leadership, beginning with his early experiences attending band meetings and the influence of his father and other prominent leaders. He reflects on his tenure as Chief Councillor of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations, highlighting key achievements such as the treaty process and the establishment of a forestry company. Robert emphasizes the significance of focusing on small, achievable goals to create lasting change within the community. 

The discussion also touches on the legacy of former Premier John Horgan and the importance of maintaining relationships across political lines to advance First Nations interests. Robert introduces Iskum Investments, a partnership among over 20 First Nations aiming to drive economic reconcilliation.  

Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by First Nations leaders, the evolving landscape of resource management, and the vital role of mentorship and community engagement in fostering economic growth and cultural preservation.

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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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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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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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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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