Indigenous Voices in Resource Development Podcast

What does it take for Indigenous Nations to move from beingconsulted on energy projects to actually owning the power system - and the benefits that come with it?Guy Lonechild, member of White Bear First Nation andPresident and CEO of the First Nations Power Authority (FNPA), joins the podcast to unpack the path to Indigenous energy sovereignty and the policy barriers that continue to slow progress. He shares how FNPA grew from addressing underrepresentation in the electricity sector into a nationalorganization supporting Indigenous-led energy development across Canada.The conversation explores why meaningful engagement mustinclude real economic participation, how Indigenous Nations can lead projects across the full lifecycle from development to operations, and why solar and battery storage offer practical cost-saving opportunities for communities. Guy also discusses the realities of new nuclear development, workforce pathways for Indigenous youth and the growing concerns around fast-tracked major projects legislation.

In this episode of Indigenous Voices in Resource Development, host John Desjarlais sits down with Crystal Smith, former Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation. They talk about Crystal’s leadership journey, her role in transformative projects like Cedar LNG, and her advocacy for responsible resource development.Crystal shares personal stories about overcoming challenges,building consensus, and the real socio-economic benefits that major projects have brought to her community. The conversation also explores how to balance cultural heritage with economic opportunity, and why collaboration betweenNations is essential for long-term success.It’s an honest, grounded discussion with a leader whocontinues to champion Indigenous participation, strong governance, and a future where communities can shape their own prosperity.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Chana Martineau, CEO of the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation, Board Director at Cenovus Energy, and proud member of Frog Lake First Nation. Chana leads a groundbreaking organization that's transforming Indigenous economic participation in resource development through loan guarantees and capacityfunding.With 30 years of experience in financial services, Chanashares her journey to leadership and discusses how Indigenous communities are seizing unprecedented opportunities in natural resources. She reveals howeconomic empowerment is creating hope and optimism across Indigenous nations, the importance of representation in leadership roles, and the power of collaboration within the Indigenous financial ecosystem.Throughout our conversation, Chana reflects on the valuesthat guide her work- kinship, community responsibility, and finding joy in everyday life. This is a story of economic reconciliation and the exciting potential for Indigenous communities to thrive.

John Desjarlais sits down with JP Gladu—principal of Mokwateh and former President of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business—for a wide-ranging conversation recorded in JP’s home territory of Sand Point First Nation. They discuss the impact of displacement and the long path back to the land, the role of Indigenous governance in economic development, and the importance of informed consent in major projects. With nearly 35 years in the resource sector, JP reflects on his experience as a forester, the value of strong partnerships, and why Indigenous-led development must be at the heart of Canada’s energy and infrastructure future.

In this episode of Indigenous Voices in Resource Development, host John Desjarlais sits down with Kaella-Marie Earle, a professional engineer at Enbridge, from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory and Aroland First Nation.Kaella shares how her upbringing in Sudbury — a region shaped by mining and environmental challenges — informed her path into engineering and energy. She reflects on her family's resilience, the influence of her father’s career, and the lasting impacts of residential schools.This conversation explores the barriers Indigenous professionals, particularly women, face in the energy sector. Kaella speaks to the power of mentorship, setting boundaries, and building confidence — and how cultural values like humility, environmental stewardship, and community trust can reshape leadership and technical work.Kaella also shares how she’s created internal programming at Enbridge to raise awareness about Indigenous history and is driving methane emissions reduction through her current work. This episode offers insight into how integrating Indigenous knowledge into engineering and leadership can lead to stronger, more sustainable energy systems in Canada.🔗 Listen now + don’t forget to subscribe and share!

In this episode, John Desjarlais sits down with Jeff Gaulinfrom Toronto and is a member of the Métis Nation of Ontario. He serves as the Global Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Vale Base Metals— a Canadian-based global critical minerals company working to accelerate the energy transition and strengthen national energy security, and as a Board Member of the Mining Association of Canada. With decades of experience in natural resources and public policy, Jeffshares his perspective on how the industry is evolving and why Indigenous inclusion is key to its long-term success.Together, they explore the role of technology in drivingmore efficient and responsible development, the need for trust and meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities, and how representation in leadershipcan shape a more inclusive and resilient sector. Jeff also reflects on his Métis heritage, the importance of partnerships, and the growing opportunitiesfor Indigenous communities, especially the next generation of leaders, to play a central role in shaping the future of Canada’s natural resource sector.A grounded, forward-looking conversation at the crossroadsof resource development, reconciliation, and real progress.Don’t forget to subscribe and share with your network!

In Episode 12 of the Indigenous Voices in Resource Development podcast, host John Desjarlais speaks with Shawn McDonald, a proud Métis from the Kikino Métis Settlement near Lac la Biche, Alberta. Shawn is the Chairman of the IRN board, a founding member of the IRN, the President and founding member of the Resource One Aboriginal Business Association (ROABA), and the sole owner of Black Scorpion Contracting Ltd., which has served the oil & gas industry in Northern Alberta since 1996. Rooted in the traditional ways of life passed down by his late father and grandfather, Shawn shares his journey and the significance of Indigenous voices in resource development. He discusses the importance of kinship, community connections, and economic empowerment, while highlighting the need for respectful relationships between Indigenous communities and industry. Shawn reflects on the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples in the resource sector and envisions a future where Indigenous communities thrive through ownership and participation in resource development.

In Episode 11 of the Indigenous Voices in Resource Development podcast, John Desjarlais speaks with Rob Martell, a Lead Mechanical Engineer from Saskatoon and a proud member of Waterhen Lake First Nation. With a career spanning maintenance, design, construction, and project management, Rob brings a unique perspective on innovation and efficiency in the resource sector.Rob and John discuss the importance of Indigenous representation in STEM, the challenges Indigenous professionals face, and the need for greater visibility and inclusion. They also highlight the value of dedicated Indigenous spaces and supportive workplace communities to ensure Indigenous voices are recognized and empowered.

On Episode 10 of Indigenous Voices in Resource Development, you’ll hear from Derrick Pattenden! Derrick is the Chief Investment Officer at Nations Royalty, a royalty company focused on creating royalty diversification for Indigenous people. His background is in mining engineering and investment banking. He is a member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte Nation and is currently living in Vancouver, BC.

In the 9th episode of the Indigenous Voices in Resource Development Podcast, we sit down with Isaiah Robinson, the Deputy Chief Councillor of the Kitasoo Xai'xais Nation and CEO of the Kitasoo Development Corporation. Since returning to his homeland in 2016, Isaiah has been instrumental in driving economic progress, starting with his work in managing the Housing and Public Works Department. With a strong foundation of a 99% employment rate built by his predecessors, Isaiah's efforts are now focused on supporting, expanding, and advocating for the Kitasoo Xai'xais Nation, with key sectors like aquaculture and forestry serving as catalysts for the community's continued growth and success. https://klemtuspiritsmokedsalmon.com/

This episode of Indigenous voices in resource development features Amanda Robert, a proud Metis woman, with roots in southern Manitoba that follow the Pembina River to the Turtle Mountain Chippewa Band of North Dakota. Amanda left home at a young age, traveling overseas and spending a good amount of time in Australia where she developed a keen awareness of the challenges Australia’s Indigenous people face, both historically and current day. This ignited a passion for her own ancestry and the rights of Indigenous Peoples in North America. Returning home years later, Amanda gained an apprenticeship as a Heavy Equipment Technician and spent 12 years working in the mining industry as a mechanic ; joining Suncor in 2017. Amanda immediately became a part of Suncor’s Indigenous employee network and went on to lead the network for her operating area in Wood Buffalo during her time at site. Taking an active role in Suncor’s Journey of Reconciliation and leadership development initiatives, she facilitated many cultural events and inclusion activities, bringing awareness and engagement to much of the front line workers and tradespeople. Amanda’s work within the employee network brought her to her current role as a Senior Advisor in the corporate Indigenous and Community Relations group for Suncor’s operations worldwide. Amanda’s current role includes the creation and facilitation of Suncor’s Indigenous awareness training, developing the policies around Indigenous relations strategies, stakeholder and community relations strategies, and framework pieces supporting Suncor’s Journey of Reconciliation. Valuing the Indigenous Worldview is a main part of Amanda’s work initiatives, and she strives to include Indigenous ways of knowing and being into all levels of the corporate environment. Working directly with senior leadership to foster greater understanding and engage in cultural learning activities, organizing Indigenous keynote speakers for corporate events, and promoting engagement and positive relationships with Indigenous communities, Amanda’s goal is to see Indigenous people succeed as they walk in two worlds; honoring our roots and traditions while we thrive in modern society. 

Episode 6 of our podcast, Indigenous Voices in Resource Development, is now available to stream on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube! In this episode, Justin Herman, a proud member of Chard Metis Nation, shares his career accomplishments in both Indigenous affairs, economics, and governance. He is proud to call Fort McMurray his home and is fluent in dene.

Episode 5 of our podcast “Indigenous Voices in Resource Development” is now live! In this episode, John interviews Roger Lewis, an Indigenous forester from Squamish Nation. Roger is superintended of special projects at Nch'Kay' developments. Rogers passion for land stewardship and responsible development shines through his interview. Find the podcast on Spotify and Apple Music

Episode 4 of our podcast “Indigenous Voices in Resource Development” is now live! In this episode, John interviews Justin Bourque, an avid trapper and President of the Athabasca Indigenous Investment Corporation. Justin shares details of his professional journey, family connections to the land and how the impact of the oil and gas industry in his community translates into empowerment, self-determination, and socioeconomic factors. “Business man by day, bushman by night” is Justin’s mantra and speaks to his dedication to keeping a balance between respecting the land and sustainable resource development. Find the podcast on Spotify and Apple Music – both links in our bio! 

Jeff is a member of the Flying Dust First Nation and a recruitment and retention specialist with Meadow Lake Tribal Council Industrial Investments. On top of his work in recruiting, Jeff has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to MLTCII's forestry operations. We are excited to tell more about Jeff's story and provide a platform to showcase his success in the forestry industry.

Welcome to "Indigenous Voices in Resource Development," where we delve into the unique perspectives and experiences of Indigenous workers shaping the landscape of resource development. In this episode, we are honored to feature Mike Young, a dynamic leader with a remarkable journey from Cumberland House, Saskatchewan. Growing up immersed in the rich culture of his community, Mike is fluent in the Swampy 'N' Cree dialect. Despite facing challenges, including a two-year stint at a residential school in Prince Albert, Mike's resilience and determination paved the way for his personal and professional growth. Starting on the service rigs, Mike encountered discrimination but quickly rose above it, ascending to management positions. With over 25 years of hands-on experience, he has become an expert in wellsite supervision for drillings, workovers, abandonments, and environmental work. His journey reflects not only personal triumph but also a broader narrative of Indigenous excellence in the resource development sector. In this episode, we sit down with Mike Young, now the President and Co-founder of EKWA (Empowered Knowledge Working Academy). He shares insights into his experiences, the challenges he overcame, and the importance of empowering Indigenous voices in the resource development arena. Join us as we explore the intersection of culture, expertise, and leadership in this compelling conversation with a trailblazer in the industry. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives and the role they play in shaping the future of resource development.

The first episode of the Indigenous Voices in Resource Development podcast explores the story, challenges, and successes of Taryn Roske a JBS Operator with Cameco based out of La Ronge Saskatchewan. Taryn Roske was born and raised and currently resides in La Ronge and is a member of the Lac La Ronge Indian band. Beginning work at Rabbit Lake until the summer of 2016 when Cameco made the decision to close its doors and go into care and maintenance. Later, Taryn accepted a position at Cigar Lake as a Senior Radiation Technician, working in that role for 3 years before moving into her current position as a JBS Operator III, being the first and only female operator (who also happens to be Indigenous) at the time.