Episode 69: Chef Steph Baryluk on Indigenous Food Systems, Cultural Heritage, and the Power of the Kitchen

In this episode, we sit down with Chef Steph Baryluk, a Red Seal Indigenous Chef, educator, and one of Canada's most compelling voices in food. A proud Teetl'it Gwich'in from Teetl'it Zheh (Fort McPherson) in Treaty 11 Territory. Chef Steph grew up in the Arctic, where hunting, fishing, and land stewardship shaped everything about how she understands food, community, and cooking with purpose.With over a decade of culinary experience, Chef Steph has built a career at the intersection of classical training and deep cultural roots. She's an educator, an advocate, and a leader in advancing Indigenous food systems in Canada.  Recognized as one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women in 2024 and recipient of the WXN Food Industry Award.In this episode, we discuss:Chef Steph's Arctic upbringing and land stewardship shaped her relationship with food.Her work through Nihkhah, a majority Indigenous and women-owned social enterprise dedicated to bringing Indigenous food, culture, and knowledge into public life.What advocating for Indigenous food systems means on a national and global stage.From community kitchens to the global stage, Chef Steph brings a perspective on food that is rooted, generous, and necessary. This is a conversation about heritage, sustainability, and the power of knowing where your food comes from.Learn and Connect:Nihkhah: https://nihkhah.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chef-steph-baryluk-7b9069270/