Advertise on podcast: Indigenous Medicine Stories: Anishinaabe mshkiki nwii-dbaaddaan

This episode features Rosella Kinoshameg. Rosella is Odawa/Ojibway from Doaganing, Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island, Ontario. She is the youngest of 10 children, with two siblings later adopted into the family, and is a Residential School survivor. She has been married for 58 years and is a mother of five, grandmother of seven, and great-grandmother of six. A retired Registered Nurse, Rosella has more than 52 years of nursing experience, including 49 years working primarily with First Nations communities. She graduated from the Marymount Hospital School of Nursing in Sudbury in 1968 and earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Ottawa in 1977. Throughout her career, Rosella worked as a Community Health Nurse and Immunization Nurse, as well as in hospital nursing in Sudbury and Windsor and at the Wikwemikong Nursing Home. Her work has also included college-level teaching for First Nations health workers and Personal Support Worker training programs, along with the development and delivery of education related to policies and procedures, cultural competency and safety, and core health competencies for physicians and nurses. She has also facilitated workshops on Anishinaabe culture and spirituality, traditional medicine and ways of life, palliative care, and preparing for the journey to the Spirit World. In November 1996, Rosella received an honorary Doctor of Sacred Letters, Honoris Causa, from Regis College at the University of Toronto. AMS Healthcare

This episode features Councillor Gordon Peters.  Councillor Gordon Peters is a member of the Turtle Clan and is Lunaapeew (Lenape) from Eelünaapéewi Lahkéewiit (Delaware Nation). He currently serves as a Councillor for Eelünaapéewi Lahkéewiit. Councillor Peters has worked with First Nations in both political and non-political capacities for more than four decades, applying his extensive organizing knowledge to promote and advance Indigenous sovereignty. He formerly served as Deputy Grand Chief, an elected position within the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians (AIAI). He also served as Ontario Regional Chief for the Assembly of First Nations for 12 years and as head of the AIAI for four years. He is an author and educator and is frequently invited to speak on issues related to First Nations communities, economic development, and cultural development. In addition to his work with the AIAI and the Assembly of First Nations, Councillor Peters was instrumental in the creation of the Centre for Indigenous Sovereignty, a non-profit corporation that prioritizes the development and implementation of First Nations initiatives focused on rebuilding Indigenous communities. Through his work at the Centre, Councillor Peters has also played a key role in preserving the Lunaapeew language in the Delaware Nation in southwestern Ontario. Due to the pervasive and ongoing effects of racism and colonialism in Canada, earlier generations were discouraged from passing along this critical component of Lunaapeew culture and identity. Over the past decade, Councillor Peters has worked with Elder Dianne Snake, the last fluent speaker of Lunaapeew, to train a new generation of speakers. Through this collaborative process, Lunaapeew is now taught to youth in Delaware Nation schools. http://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Dr. Bernice Downey. Dr. Downey is a woman of Ojibwe and Celtic heritage, a mother, and a grandmother. She is a medical anthropologist whose current research interests include Indigenous women's heart health, health literacy, Indigenous Traditional Knowledge, and health and research system reform for Indigenous populations. She is a Heart & Stroke Foundation-CIHR Early Career Chair in Indigenous Women's Heart and Brain Health. She is also the inaugural Associate Dean, Indigenous Health for the Faculty of Health Sciences, and a former Acting Director of the McMaster Indigenous Research Institute. Dr. Downey has participated in multiple national and international Indigenous research policy initiatives, including serving as a two-term member of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research's Institute of Aboriginal Health Advisory Board, helping plan and participate in the International Network of Indigenous Health Knowledge Development, and serving as Chief Executive Officer of the National Aboriginal Health Organization, whose mandate included a strong research and knowledge translation focus. As part of her post-doctoral fellowship role with the Department of Graduate Studies at McMaster, Dr. Downey led the development of the innovative Indigenous Undergraduate Summer Research Scholars Program and the McMaster Indigenous Research Institute.

This episode features Dr. Christopher Mushquash.  Dr. Mushquash is a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Mental Health and Addiction, and Professor in the Department of Psychology at Lakehead University and the Division of Human Sciences at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University. He is also Vice President Research at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and Chief Scientist and Chief Operating Officer at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute. He is the Director of the Centre for Rural and Northern Health Research at Lakehead University. In addition to his academic appointments, Dr. Mushquash is a registered clinical psychologist providing assessment, intervention, and consultation services for First Nations children, adolescents, and adults at Dilico Anishinabek Family Care. In 2025, Dr. Mushquash was inducted as a Fellow in the Royal Society of Canada. Dr. Mushquash is Anishinawbe (Ojibway) and a member of Pawgwasheeng (Pays Plat First Nation). https://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Dr. Gus Hill, who earned his PhD in Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2008, following his MSW from Laurier and a BSW in Indigenous Social Work from Laurentian University. Gus is a Full Professor and Hallman Research Chair in Child and Family Wellness. He teaches in the Indigenous Field of Study at the MSW and PhD levels in the Faculty of Social Work at Laurier. His research practice is guided by OCAP (Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession) and relational accountability, and generally focuses on improving the well-being of Indigenous peoples in Canada. His research is guided by wholism and a commitment to placing control of Indigenous knowledge firmly in the hands of Indigenous communities. Dr. Hill's current work focuses on Indigenous family wholistic wellness, Indigenous community capacity building, Indigenous community engagement with water safety and protection, and Indigenous worker wholistic wellness. https://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Dr. Pamela Williamson, a member of Moose Deer Point First Nation and the Sturgeon Clan (N'me N'Dodem). She was raised on, and currently lives on, Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island), Ontario. She is the mother of three adult children and two grandchildren, and has been married for over 46 years. Prior to retiring from full-time work, Dr. Williamson served as the Senior Administrator of Noojmowin Teg Health Centre, an Indigenous primary health care organization composed of a multidisciplinary team serving First Nation and Indigenous community members across Espanola and the Manitoulin Island District. In this role, she worked closely with the seven First Nations and other local primary health partners to support the health needs of First Nation individuals and families, successfully advocating for a number of Indigenous health priorities and initiatives. Currently, Dr. Williamson focuses her energies and skills as an entrepreneur and Indigenous consultant. She also volunteers on diverse boards and councils at the national, provincial, and regional levels. Her passion remains advocating for and supporting the priorities of First Nations, particularly in the area of holistic health and well-being. https://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Liz Akiwenzie, Dr. Nicole Redvers, Pam Plain, Joanne Jackson, Glenna Jacobs, Toni Murphy, and R. Doug George, recorded at the Southwestern Ontario First Nations and Inuit Cultural Practitioner Gathering. Liz Akiwenzie was raised in Chippewa of Nawash and lives in southwestern Ontario. She is Ojibway on her father's side and Oneida on her mother's side. Her spirit names are Nistangekwe (Understanding Woman) in Ojibway and Day^ya yut do La doe (She Who Reasons and Sees Both Sides) in Oneida. With over 40 years of learning in cultural ways of being, she is recognized as a Knowledge Keeper and Cultural Educator, supporting healing, education, and reconnection for individuals, families, and communities. Dr. Nicole Redvers is a member of the Denı́nu Kų́ę́ First Nation in the Northwest Territories and serves as Associate Professor, Western Research Chair, and Director of Indigenous Planetary Health at Western University. She works nationally and internationally to advance Indigenous perspectives in human and planetary health research and practice. Nicole is the author of The Science of the Sacred: Bridging Global Indigenous Medicine Systems and Modern Scientific Principles. Pam Plain, spirit name White Cedar Bark Woman, is Anishinaabe from Aamjiwnaang First Nation and Eagle Clan. She holds a Master of Social Work and has worked since 2006 in trauma, grief, child welfare, and mental health, grounding her practice in Indigenous worldviews and Two-Eyed Seeing. Since retiring in 2022, she offers private counselling and consulting services rooted in holistic and culturally based healing. Joanne Jackson is Eagle Clan from Kettle & Stony Point First Nation and has spent many years learning from Elders and traditional healers. She is entrusted to conduct Indigenous healing practices and ceremonies and provides cultural teachings to support wellness journeys. Joanne holds a Master's degree in Social Work and has over 30 years of experience in counselling, crisis work, and community healing. Glenna Jacobs is Ojibway and Pottawatomi from Bkejwanong Territory (Walpole Island), of the Crane Clan, with the Anishnaabe name Soaring Eagle Woman. Her lifelong journey in cultural healing, social work, and traditional practices led her to create community-based and private healing programs supporting Indigenous wellness. She now operates Nookmis Path to Reconnection, guiding individuals through trauma release and spiritual, emotional, and physical healing. Toni Murphy is a Registered Nurse from Bkejwanong Territory (Walpole Island) and a lifelong advocate for Indigenous community health and well-being. She is President of the Southwest Home & Community Care Network Association, supporting healthcare services across more than 40 First Nations communities. Toni serves as a bridge between Indigenous and Western healthcare systems, embodying the principles of Two-Eyed Seeing. R. Doug George is Potawatomi/Chippewa from Kettle & Stony Point First Nation and serves as Senior Program Manager of Traditional Healing at SOAHAC. With over 20 years of experience, he supports Anishnaabe wellness through culturally grounded healing programs and community engagement. Doug is dedicated to strengthening connections between traditional knowledge and contemporary healthcare in support of balance and reconciliation. amshealthcare.ca

This episode features Dr. Albert Marshall, Mi'kmaq Elder and co-creator of Two-Eyed Seeing. Dr. Marshall is a respected Elder from the Moose Clan of the Mi'kmaw Nation and lives in the community of Eskasoni in Unama'ki (Cape Breton), Nova Scotia. A fluent speaker of the Mi'kmaq language, he is a passionate advocate for cross-cultural understanding, healing, and our collective responsibility to care for all beings and our Earth Mother. He is recognized as the "designated voice" for Mi'kmaw Elders of Unama'ki on environmental matters. Dr. Marshall is the co-creator of the influential guiding principle Etuaptumk, or Two-Eyed Seeing, which calls for bringing together Indigenous ways of knowing with Western knowledge systems for the benefit of all. He has received numerous honours, including honorary doctoral degrees and diplomas, the Indspire Lifetime Achievement Award, and, most recently, appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada for his tireless work in preserving, strengthening, and sharing Mi'kmaq culture, values, and knowledge. http://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Dr. Annelind Wakegijig, an Anishinaabe family physician and the Lead Physician at the Baawaating Family Health Team in Batchewana First Nation near Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. A graduate of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, she has dedicated her career to improving health outcomes in Indigenous communities through culturally safe and community-based care. Dr. Wakegijig is deeply committed to integrating Indigenous knowledge systems and healing practices within Western medical frameworks. Her work emphasizes relationship-based medicine building trust, respect, and understanding between patients and providers while recognizing the importance of land, language, and spirit in holistic wellness. Through her leadership, she continues to advocate for reconciliation in healthcare by creating space for Indigenous voices, ceremony, and traditional medicine within both clinical and educational settings. http://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Ma-Nee Chacaby, a Two-Spirit Ojibwe-Cree Elder, activist, and author from Ombabika, near Lake Nipigon in northwestern Ontario. A survivor of both colonial and personal trauma, she has dedicated her life to sharing stories of resilience, cultural reclamation, and community healing. Her acclaimed memoir, A Two-Spirit Journey: The Autobiography of a Lesbian Ojibwa-Cree Elder, chronicles her experiences growing up in the bush, surviving residential school and addiction, and embracing her identity as a Two-Spirit woman. Through her advocacy, teachings, and storytelling, Chacaby continues to inspire dialogue on Indigenous rights, gender diversity, and intergenerational healing. http://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Vincent Pawis ('Vince'), an Elder of Shawanaga First Nation. He founded White Buffalo Healing Lodge in 2005 when he served as a Native Inmate Liaison Officer at the Sudbury Jail. Vince was instrumental in founding its Elder Assisted Aboriginal Circle Parole Hearings, a program allowing offenders to be heard in a setting that reflects their values and traditions in their rehabilitation. Counselling work with offenders begins from the point of incarceration to subsequent preparation for parole hearings. Subsequently, White Buffalo's structured programs prepare parolee clients for release with aftercare programs, employment, training, and community integration. At-risk youth also engage in counselling sessions, workshops, healing circles and sweat lodge ceremonies. This commitment to the ongoing health and well-being of White Buffalo's clients has drastically reduced the recidivism rate among parolees. In recognition of his work and benefit to communities at large, Vince was presented with the Minister's Award for Exceptional Achievements in Corrections. He was later appointed to the Order of Ontario, the province's highest honour for his contributions to law and culture and subsequently was awarded the Governor General of Canada Meritorious Service Medal for restoring pride and self-confidence in the community by promoting positive lifestyle changes of its members through connection with cultural heritage. Watch behind the scenes video of this episode https://whitebuffaloroad.com/ https://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Ron Linklater, Brenda Mason, Randy Sewap, Dieter Sainnawap, and Nelly Mesenegeeshik, who were all participants in an Elders and Healers Gathering hosted by St. Joseph's Care Group in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Ron Linklater is a respected Knowledge Keeper and educator dedicated to sharing traditional teachings and supporting community wellness. With decades of experience in Indigenous education, Ron brings a grounded, compassionate presence to conversations about healing, cultural identity, and the importance of reconnecting to the land and ceremony. Brenda Mason is a passionate community healer and advocate for Indigenous wellness and mental health. With a background in grassroots support and cultural work, Brenda brings insight into intergenerational healing, trauma recovery, and the strength of Indigenous kinship and caregiving practices. Randy Sewap is a Traditional Knowledge Carrier and mentor committed to uplifting Indigenous youth through teachings, land-based learning, and cultural resilience. He draws from ancestral knowledge and lived experience to guide others on their healing journeys and to foster pride in Indigenous identity. Dieter Sainnawap is a dedicated language advocate and cultural facilitator working to revitalize Indigenous languages and support cross-generational learning. Through his work, Dieter promotes the power of language as a vessel of spirit, history, and healing, connecting people to their roots and to each other. Nelly Mesenegeeshik is a deeply respected Elder and Keeper of Traditional Knowledge. Her teachings center on the land, the spirit, and the ancestral wisdom passed down through generations. Nelly's presence offers gentle strength and clarity, encouraging reconnection with Indigenous lifeways and the sacredness of community. https://sjcg.net/services/Indigenous-Relations/health.aspx http://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Fred Kelly, a respected Anishinaabe Elder from the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation in northwestern Ontario. A survivor of the Indian Residential School system, Kelly has dedicated his life to healing, advocacy, and advancing the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. He was a key figure in the negotiation and implementation of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, and has worked extensively as a spiritual advisor, mediator, and educator. With decades of experience in leadership, both at the grassroots and national levels, Fred Kelly continues to be a vital voice in truth and reconciliation efforts. His commitment to traditional knowledge, Indigenous sovereignty, and intergenerational healing has inspired communities across Turtle Island. Disclaimer: This episode contains content that may be distressing to some listeners. It includes discussions of sexual abuse, assault, and the traumatic experiences of survivors of residential schools. We recognize the deep pain these stories carry and encourage you to prioritize your well-being while listening. If you or someone you know is impacted by this content, we urge you to seek support.  These stories are shared with permission and in the spirit of truth-telling, healing, and honoring the voices of survivors. Support Resources (Canada) National Residential School Crisis Line Available 24/7 for survivors and their families 📞 1-866-925-4419 Hope for Wellness Help Line Mental health counseling and crisis intervention for all Indigenous peoples across Canada 📞 1-855-242-3310 💬 Chat online Talk4Healing Confidential support for Indigenous women, available in multiple languages 📞 1-855-554-HEAL (4325) 🌐 https://www.talk4healing.com Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) Services for survivors, including counseling and health support 🌐 https://www.irsss.ca Kids Help Phone For youth in need of immediate support, available 24/7 📞 1-800-668-6868 💬 https://kidshelpphone.ca Sexual Assault Support Services (by region) Search for local support centers across Canada 🌐 https://endingviolencecanada.org/sexual-assault-centres

This episode features Tony Belcourt, a trailblazing Métis leader and advocate for Indigenous rights in Canada. As the founding president of both the Métis Nation of Ontario and the Native Council of Canada, Tony shares powerful stories of political organizing, cultural resilience, and the long journey toward recognition and justice for Métis people. With wisdom drawn from decades of leadership, he reflects on the importance of identity, community, and the enduring strength of Indigenous nations. http://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Part 2 of 2 with Reena Larabee and Aaron Therriault. Reena Larabee is a Child and Youth worker and has been working on implementing Culture and Traditional Healing within many settings over the past 15 years. Reena currently manages Nanaandawe'ewin Traditional Healing with a two-eyed seeing approach at St. Joseph's Care Group. Aaron Therriault is a gifted Traditional Drum Keeper and Knowledge Keeper, Aaron carries a deep connection to his culture, sharing his wisdom and traditions with those around him. Aaron serves as an Elder for several organizations in Thunder Bay, including the Ogichidaa Onaakonigewin, the Elders Council with N'doo'owe Binesi and St. Joseph's Care Group. Through these roles, Aaron continues to provide guidance, wisdom, and support to his community. https://sjcg.net/services/Indigenous-Relations/health.aspx http://amshealthcare.ca/