Derek Powder: Indigenous Gang Life, Sobriety, and 20+ Years of Helping Others

Viewer discretion advised: This episode includes discussion of gangs, incarceration, substance use, and childhood trauma.In this episode of Scarwise, I sit down with Derek Powder, a man who once belonged to one of the biggest Indigenous gangs in Canada, and who later rebuilt his life through sobriety, humility, and service.Derek shares his tumultuous childhood, what gang life gave him at the time (and what it took away), and the hard work of getting out and staying out. We talk about long-term recovery, remaining grounded, and what it means to carry Indigenous identity through both struggle and healing. Derek has worked in social services for 20+ years, and has spent years traveling and speaking about his story to help others find a different path.Technical note: Portions of this episode are visually out of focus due to a camera setting issue. The audio is clear, and the conversation is absolutely worth the listen.Full episode:Scarwise (YouTube • Spotify • Apple)Follow @scarwisepodcastCheck out the documentary Derek was in when he was exiting the gang and on the path towards recovery: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QrGJu2xQks&t=20s