Beyond Indigenization: Métis Strength and Generational Change
In this episode, we speak with Sharon Goulet, a Red River Métis woman and long-time advocate for Indigenous communities in Calgary. Sharon shares her powerful journey of reconnecting with her Métis identity and passing that connection on to her daughter — a recurring and deeply moving theme throughout the conversation.
We explore how cities are responding to the TRC’s Calls to Action, why the Two Row Wampum Belt remains a foundational teaching, and why simply “indigenizing” systems often misses the mark. Sharon challenges us to think about reconciliation not as a checklist, but as a deep, ongoing commitment — one that requires cultural integrity and no compromise.
From motherhood to policy, personal healing to public change, Sharon reminds us of the importance of grounding the future in the strength of Indigenous voices, especially for Métis youth and the next generation.
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Many Different Birds - Episode May 27, 2025
Episode 14: Dr. Allison Kelliher: Bridging Medicine, Culture, and Healing
We’re honored to welcome our first international podcast guest, Dr. Allison Kelliher—a Koyukon Athabascan physician, traditional healer, and advocate for Indigenous health on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border.
In this rich conversation, Dr. Kelliher shares her personal journey from growing up in Alaska to practicing medicine in tribal, urban, and international settings. We dive into her integration of plant-based medicine, acupuncture, osteopathy, and traditional Indigenous healing—and how these practices are reshaping approaches to care.
We also explore key differences between the U.S. and Canadian medical systems, especially in how they serve Indigenous communities. As director of the Indigenous Determinants of Health Alliance, Dr. Kelliher offers insight into creating more accessible, preventative, and culturally grounded care systems.
From community healing to global advocacy, this episode is a powerful look at how ancestral wisdom and modern medicine can come together to transform health for all.
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Many Different Birds - Episode May 27, 2025
Episode 14: Dr. Allison Kelliher: Bridging Medicine, Culture, and Healing
We’re honored to welcome our first international podcast guest, Dr. Allison Kelliher—a Koyukon Athabascan physician, traditional healer, and advocate for Indigenous health on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border.
In this rich conversation, Dr. Kelliher shares her personal journey from growing up in Alaska to practicing medicine in tribal, urban, and international settings. We dive into her integration of plant-based medicine, acupuncture, osteopathy, and traditional Indigenous healing—and how these practices are reshaping approaches to care.
We also explore key differences between the U.S. and Canadian medical systems, especially in how they serve Indigenous communities. As director of the Indigenous Determinants of Health Alliance, Dr. Kelliher offers insight into creating more accessible, preventative, and culturally grounded care systems.
From community healing to global advocacy, this episode is a powerful look at how ancestral wisdom and modern medicine can come together to transform health for all.
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Many Different Birds - Episode November 26, 2024
Episode 13: Courtney Clark: Healthy Homes Model & Plant-based Medicine
In this episode, we sit down with Courtney Clark to discuss the complexities of addiction medicine and its impact on individuals and communities. Courtney shares her journey into the field, highlighting the challenges and rewards of addressing addiction through a compassionate, holistic lens.
We explore the role of community support, the importance of understanding underlying causes, and the need for accessible, equitable care. Courtney also sheds light on how storytelling and lived experiences shape her approach, creating pathways for healing and resilience.
Join us for an insightful conversation on navigating addiction, plant-based medicine, recovery, and the power of human connection.
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Many Different Birds - Episode October 29, 2024
Episode 12: Dr. Cheryl Barnabe’s Journey in Rheumatology
Join us for an insightful conversation with a Métis rheumatologist as we explore the intersection of heritage, medicine, and identity. In this episode, we unpack what rheumatology is and discuss how Indigenous identity shapes the experience of becoming a doctor. Our guest reflects on navigating medical school alongside an Indigenous student group and shares personal stories of learning more about their family heritage along the way.
We also dive into the importance of integrating diverse healing practices and approaches—bridging both Western medicine and traditional knowledge. With a focus on First Nations communities, we discuss how building trust between physician and patient goes beyond diagnosis and treatment. Together, we examine health equity, addressing the disproportionate impact of chronic illnesses on Indigenous populations, and how this informs every step of care.
Many Different Birds is a podcast that dives into Indigenous health, well-being, and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system. Through in-depth conversations, bringing together Elders, knowledge keepers, researchers, healthcare professionals, students, and community members, we amplify Indigenous voices and challenge systemic inequities.
Many Different Birds goes beyond academic discussions and institutional perspectives, offering a platform for lived experiences, personal storytelling, and critical reflections. By sharing these perspectives, we hope to educate listeners, challenge preconceived notions, and contribute to meaningful change in how healthcare is understood and delivered.
If you’re curious, open-minded, or just want to learn more about how we can create a just, equitable healthcare system, tune in. Let’s ask the tough questions, challenge our biases, and rethink what we think we know—together.
Edited by: Lionel Seward
South Africa