From Evacuee to Emergency Manager: Robert Cosma on Indigenous Leadership | Indigenous perspectives from the First Nations Government leader, and host Tim Conrad, APR

Send us Fan MailEpisode OverviewIn this powerful conversation, Indigenous emergency program manager Robert Cosma shares his journey from evacuee to one of the most respected emergency leaders in the Cariboo region. Robert speaks candidly about the realities of evacuations for First Nations communities, the cultural priorities that shape Indigenous emergency response, and why land, animals, and community must be protected together.Episode Show NotesGuest: Robert Cosma, Emergency Services Manager (former), Tŝilhqot’in National GovernmentListen for:00:00 — The Tŝilhqot’in Story and the Land Colonial history, the Chilcotin War, smallpox, residential schools, and the path to self‑determination.01:58 — Introducing Robert Cosma Robert’s background, moving west, and how becoming an evacuee changed his life.04:10 — From Evacuee to Emergency Manager How 2017 shaped Robert’s mission to improve emergency response for First Nations.06:20 — Family, Identity, and Learning from Elders Stories of Roger Jimmie, cultural teachings, and the responsibility to future generations.09:00 — Settler Mindsets vs. Indigenous Worldviews Seven‑generation thinking, circles vs. boxes, and how perspective shifts change outcomes.12:45 — Growing Up Away from Indigenous Identity Robert’s early life, reconnecting with culture, and the contrast between Calgary and the Cariboo.16:00 — Working with First Nations Communities Pride, land stewardship, and the passion that shapes Indigenous emergency work.19:40 — Why the Land Matters More Than Infrastructure Animals, berries, hunting, and the long-term impacts of megafires on food systems.23:10 — Inside the EOC: Cultural Lens in Real Time How Indigenous representation changes decisions, speeds up response, and avoids harm.27:00 — Tough Conversations and True Collaboration Honesty, trust, and building relationships between Nations and local authorities.30:15 — Cultural Protocols on the Fireline The Batnuni story, tobacco offerings, and respectful entry into sensitive areas.33:40 — Evacuations Through an Indigenous Lens Why returning home is complex: food spoilage, generators, pack rats, and land-based living.37:20 — The Trout Lake Flood Story A personal example of overlooked damage and the consequences of not understanding the land.40:00 — What Needs to Change in Emergency Management Land-first priorities, community care, and the shift toward Indigenous leadership.43:00 — Closing Reflections The power of simple conversations, shared learning, and building a better future for the next generations.What We Talk AboutRobert’s personal journey from Ontario to Nazko and the experiences that led him into emergency managementWhat it feels like to be evacuated for 24 weeks and why that experience changed his lifeHow First Nations communities care for their people during evacuations—elders, families, hunters, and land‑based householdsThe cultural and emotional impacts of being uprooted from the landWhy land, animals, and food systems must be considered in every emergency decisionThe difference between colonial emergency priorities and Indigenous prioritiesHow Indigenous representation inside EOCs changes decisions in real timeThe importance of relationships, trust, and tough conversations between Nations and local authoritiesStories of cultural protocol during wildfire response, including the role of elders and ceremonyHow the Tŝilhqot’in National Government is leading change in emergency preparedness and responseThe long-term impacts of megafires on ecosystems, wildlife, and community foodVisit www.communicationspodcast.com for more detailed show info including photos and videos.