THE NATIVE ROOM - EPISODE 9 - COMEDIAN, ACTOR with Special Guest CONWAY KOOTENAY aka SMUDGE PAN

This week on The Native Room, we sit down with comedian, actor, and all-around entertainer Conway Kootenay, also known as Smudge Pan. Known for his hilarious takes on everyday Native life, Conway brings the laughs—but also the real stories behind the man. We get into his journey growing up, how he found comedy, and what pushed him to step into acting and performing. Conway also shares the story behind the name Smudge Pan and how that persona took off. We tap into the history and impact of Red Power Squad, their influence on Native hip hop culture, and how movement, music, and identity all come together. From there, we talk about the importance of inspiring Indigenous youth—especially young men—to find their path, stay grounded in who they are, and push forward no matter where they come from. Of course, it wouldn’t be The Native Room without some laughs—so expect funny stories, real talk, and those moments that only Native people will truly understand.