Treaty, Truth & the Power of Cultural Negotiation | Uncle Charles Pakana

In this episode of RTN, Matthew welcomes back Uncle Charles Pakana, journalist, broadcaster and host of the Van Talks podcast, as the first returning guest to Rolling Through Negotiations. Together, they yarn about Treaty, truth-telling and the power of respectful negotiation in creating better outcomes for First Nations communities. Drawing on years of conversations with Aboriginal leaders across Victoria, Uncle Charles shares what he has learned from those at the forefront of Treaty negotiations, including the resilience, active listening and cultural leadership required to navigate complex conversations between community and government. Uncle Charles also shares a powerful firsthand example of cultural negotiation, where a significant concern was resolved in just 58 minutes through respectful conversation, giving everyone the opportunity to speak without interruption and genuinely listen to one another. For Charles, it remains one of the clearest examples of how First Nations culture can influence better negotiation outcomes. The conversation also explores truth-telling and the importance of turning truth into action.  If you enjoy conversations about negotiation, Treaty, truth-telling, reconciliation, culture and creating meaningful change, this episode is for you. Connect with Uncle Charles: • Van Talks podcast: https://vicaboriginalnews.com.au/projects/van-talks/ Connect with Matthew: • LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/matthew-karakoulakis More RTN Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rtnegotiations/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RTNegotiations Thanks for listening and until the next one, take care. OSS! Send in a question or comment via text. Support the RTN Podcast:If you find the podcast valuable and would like to support the work we’re doing  you can shout us a coffee. Every contribution helps us continue sharing important conversations around negotiation, community, leadership and resilience. Support is never required, but it is always deeply appreciatedDisclaimer: This podcast shares personal views and lived experiences only, it’s not legal, financial, or medical advice.If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.