DiscoverIndigenous Medicine Stories: Anishinaabe mshkiki nwii-dbaaddaan
Indigenous Medicine Stories: Anishinaabe mshkiki nwii-dbaaddaan
Claim Ownership

Indigenous Medicine Stories: Anishinaabe mshkiki nwii-dbaaddaan

Author: Darrel Manitowabi

Subscribed: 53Played: 498
Share

Description

Indigenous Medicine Stories Podcast is a collaboration between AMS Healthcare and the Jason
A. Hannah Chair in the History of Indigenous Health and Indigenous Traditional Medicine at the
Northern Ontario School of Medicine University. Indigenous Medicine Stories aims to educate
health professionals and the public about Indigenous healing. The podcast will highlight the
lived experiences of Indigenous Knowledge holders, healers, and Elders and help professionals
who practice Indigenous healing.

Since time immemorial, Indigenous Peoples held a knowledge system of wellness, healing, and
medicine. Colonial processes such as Treaties, the Reserve system, the Indian Act of Canada,
Residential Schools, child welfare policies, racism, discrimination, and excluding Indigenous
healing in Western biomedicine and education have attempted to erase this knowledge system.
Furthermore, until recently, the health education professions have played a role by excluding
Indigenous knowledge from the curriculum. Also known as Anishinaabe mshkiki nwii-
dbaaddaan ("I'm going to talk about Indigenous medicine") in Anishinaaabemowin, medicine
stories explore the perseverance and holism of Indigenous well-being and healing practices
through the lived experiences of practitioners.

About AMS Healthcare
Our work advances a Canadian healthcare system through innovation and technology while
remaining rooted in compassion and our medical history. We convene networks, develop
leaders, and fund crucial medical history, healthcare research, education, and clinical practice
activities. Our work helps improve care for all Canadians. For more information, contact Anne
Avery at Anne.Avery@amshealthcare.ca.

About the Jason A. Hannah Chair.
Through a permanent endowment, the Jason A. Hannah Chairs teach the history of medicine in
healthcare education. Dr. Darrel Manitowabi is the inaugural Hannah Chair in the History of
Indigenous Health and Indigenous Traditional Medicine at the Northern Ontario School of
Medicine University, Sudbury Campus. His research in the history of Indigenous health situates
the place of the Anishinaabe language and knowledge in conceptualizing holistic well-being and
ill health. For more information, contact Dr. Darrel Manitowabi at dmanitowabi@nosm.ca
33 Episodes
Reverse
This episode features Dr. Albert Marshall, Mi'kmaq Elder and co-creator of Two-Eyed Seeing. Dr. Marshall is a respected Elder from the Moose Clan of the Mi'kmaw Nation and lives in the community of Eskasoni in Unama'ki (Cape Breton), Nova Scotia. A fluent speaker of the Mi'kmaq language, he is a passionate advocate for cross-cultural understanding, healing, and our collective responsibility to care for all beings and our Earth Mother. He is recognized as the "designated voice" for Mi'kmaw Elders of Unama'ki on environmental matters. Dr. Marshall is the co-creator of the influential guiding principle Etuaptumk, or Two-Eyed Seeing, which calls for bringing together Indigenous ways of knowing with Western knowledge systems for the benefit of all. He has received numerous honours, including honorary doctoral degrees and diplomas, the Indspire Lifetime Achievement Award, and, most recently, appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada for his tireless work in preserving, strengthening, and sharing Mi'kmaq culture, values, and knowledge. http://amshealthcare.ca/  
This episode features Dr. Annelind Wakegijig, an Anishinaabe family physician and the Lead Physician at the Baawaating Family Health Team in Batchewana First Nation near Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. A graduate of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, she has dedicated her career to improving health outcomes in Indigenous communities through culturally safe and community-based care. Dr. Wakegijig is deeply committed to integrating Indigenous knowledge systems and healing practices within Western medical frameworks. Her work emphasizes relationship-based medicine building trust, respect, and understanding between patients and providers while recognizing the importance of land, language, and spirit in holistic wellness. Through her leadership, she continues to advocate for reconciliation in healthcare by creating space for Indigenous voices, ceremony, and traditional medicine within both clinical and educational settings. http://amshealthcare.ca/  
This episode features Ma-Nee Chacaby, a Two-Spirit Ojibwe-Cree Elder, activist, and author from Ombabika, near Lake Nipigon in northwestern Ontario. A survivor of both colonial and personal trauma, she has dedicated her life to sharing stories of resilience, cultural reclamation, and community healing. Her acclaimed memoir, A Two-Spirit Journey: The Autobiography of a Lesbian Ojibwa-Cree Elder, chronicles her experiences growing up in the bush, surviving residential school and addiction, and embracing her identity as a Two-Spirit woman. Through her advocacy, teachings, and storytelling, Chacaby continues to inspire dialogue on Indigenous rights, gender diversity, and intergenerational healing. http://amshealthcare.ca/  
This episode features Vincent Pawis ('Vince'), an Elder of Shawanaga First Nation. He founded White Buffalo Healing Lodge in 2005 when he served as a Native Inmate Liaison Officer at the Sudbury Jail. Vince was instrumental in founding its Elder Assisted Aboriginal Circle Parole Hearings, a program allowing offenders to be heard in a setting that reflects their values and traditions in their rehabilitation. Counselling work with offenders begins from the point of incarceration to subsequent preparation for parole hearings. Subsequently, White Buffalo's structured programs prepare parolee clients for release with aftercare programs, employment, training, and community integration. At-risk youth also engage in counselling sessions, workshops, healing circles and sweat lodge ceremonies. This commitment to the ongoing health and well-being of White Buffalo's clients has drastically reduced the recidivism rate among parolees. In recognition of his work and benefit to communities at large, Vince was presented with the Minister's Award for Exceptional Achievements in Corrections. He was later appointed to the Order of Ontario, the province's highest honour for his contributions to law and culture and subsequently was awarded the Governor General of Canada Meritorious Service Medal for restoring pride and self-confidence in the community by promoting positive lifestyle changes of its members through connection with cultural heritage. Watch behind the scenes video of this episode https://whitebuffaloroad.com/ https://amshealthcare.ca/  
This episode features Ron Linklater, Brenda Mason, Randy Sewap, Dieter Sainnawap, and Nelly Mesenegeeshik, who were all participants in an Elders and Healers Gathering hosted by St. Joseph's Care Group in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Ron Linklater is a respected Knowledge Keeper and educator dedicated to sharing traditional teachings and supporting community wellness. With decades of experience in Indigenous education, Ron brings a grounded, compassionate presence to conversations about healing, cultural identity, and the importance of reconnecting to the land and ceremony. Brenda Mason is a passionate community healer and advocate for Indigenous wellness and mental health. With a background in grassroots support and cultural work, Brenda brings insight into intergenerational healing, trauma recovery, and the strength of Indigenous kinship and caregiving practices. Randy Sewap is a Traditional Knowledge Carrier and mentor committed to uplifting Indigenous youth through teachings, land-based learning, and cultural resilience. He draws from ancestral knowledge and lived experience to guide others on their healing journeys and to foster pride in Indigenous identity. Dieter Sainnawap is a dedicated language advocate and cultural facilitator working to revitalize Indigenous languages and support cross-generational learning. Through his work, Dieter promotes the power of language as a vessel of spirit, history, and healing, connecting people to their roots and to each other. Nelly Mesenegeeshik is a deeply respected Elder and Keeper of Traditional Knowledge. Her teachings center on the land, the spirit, and the ancestral wisdom passed down through generations. Nelly's presence offers gentle strength and clarity, encouraging reconnection with Indigenous lifeways and the sacredness of community. https://sjcg.net/services/Indigenous-Relations/health.aspx http://amshealthcare.ca/  
This episode features Fred Kelly, a respected Anishinaabe Elder from the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation in northwestern Ontario. A survivor of the Indian Residential School system, Kelly has dedicated his life to healing, advocacy, and advancing the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. He was a key figure in the negotiation and implementation of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, and has worked extensively as a spiritual advisor, mediator, and educator. With decades of experience in leadership, both at the grassroots and national levels, Fred Kelly continues to be a vital voice in truth and reconciliation efforts. His commitment to traditional knowledge, Indigenous sovereignty, and intergenerational healing has inspired communities across Turtle Island. Disclaimer: This episode contains content that may be distressing to some listeners. It includes discussions of sexual abuse, assault, and the traumatic experiences of survivors of residential schools. We recognize the deep pain these stories carry and encourage you to prioritize your well-being while listening. If you or someone you know is impacted by this content, we urge you to seek support.  These stories are shared with permission and in the spirit of truth-telling, healing, and honoring the voices of survivors. Support Resources (Canada) National Residential School Crisis Line Available 24/7 for survivors and their families 📞 1-866-925-4419 Hope for Wellness Help Line Mental health counseling and crisis intervention for all Indigenous peoples across Canada 📞 1-855-242-3310 💬 Chat online Talk4Healing Confidential support for Indigenous women, available in multiple languages 📞 1-855-554-HEAL (4325) 🌐 https://www.talk4healing.com Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) Services for survivors, including counseling and health support 🌐 https://www.irsss.ca Kids Help Phone For youth in need of immediate support, available 24/7 📞 1-800-668-6868 💬 https://kidshelpphone.ca Sexual Assault Support Services (by region) Search for local support centers across Canada 🌐 https://endingviolencecanada.org/sexual-assault-centres    
This episode features Tony Belcourt, a trailblazing Métis leader and advocate for Indigenous rights in Canada. As the founding president of both the Métis Nation of Ontario and the Native Council of Canada, Tony shares powerful stories of political organizing, cultural resilience, and the long journey toward recognition and justice for Métis people. With wisdom drawn from decades of leadership, he reflects on the importance of identity, community, and the enduring strength of Indigenous nations. http://amshealthcare.ca/    
This episode features Part 2 of 2 with Reena Larabee and Aaron Therriault. Reena Larabee is a Child and Youth worker and has been working on implementing Culture and Traditional Healing within many settings over the past 15 years. Reena currently manages Nanaandawe'ewin Traditional Healing with a two-eyed seeing approach at St. Joseph's Care Group. Aaron Therriault is a gifted Traditional Drum Keeper and Knowledge Keeper, Aaron carries a deep connection to his culture, sharing his wisdom and traditions with those around him. Aaron serves as an Elder for several organizations in Thunder Bay, including the Ogichidaa Onaakonigewin, the Elders Council with N'doo'owe Binesi and St. Joseph's Care Group. Through these roles, Aaron continues to provide guidance, wisdom, and support to his community. https://sjcg.net/services/Indigenous-Relations/health.aspx http://amshealthcare.ca/    
This episode features Part 1 of 2 with Paul Francis Jr. the Vice President of N'doo'owe Binesi (Healing Thunderbird), the Indigenous Health, Partnerships and Wellness division of St. Joseph's Care Group in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Paul is a graduate of the Master of Social Work Indigenous Field of Study Program at Wilfrid Laurier University, is a registered social worker and a member in good standing with the OCSWSSW. Paul is committed to his Anishinaabe spiritual practices and enjoys attending and helping with traditional ceremonies. Paul believes in the power of integrating Indigenous healing practices within the mainstream healthcare system for the benefit of all. Paul is Odawa (Anishinaabe) and mixed European ancestry, a member from Wiikwemikong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island and is a member of the Bear Clan. Paul is a proud father to Tristan, Royal, Harlow, Ailee and Siinese, with his wife Kyla. https://sjcg.net/services/Indigenous-Relations/health.aspx http://amshealthcare.ca/    
This episode features David Newhouse, an Onondaga from the Six Nations of the Grand River community near Brantford, Ontario. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Western Ontario. Since 1993, he has served as a Professor of Indigenous Studies and Chair of the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies at Trent University. He was also the inaugural Principal of Peter Gzowski College at Trent. David Newhouse shares his profound insights on Indigenous governance, education, and knowledge systems. As a respected scholar and leader in Indigenous studies, he reflects on the intersection of traditional wisdom and the contemporary challenges faced by Indigenous communities. He discusses the importance of storytelling in preserving cultural identity, the role of Indigenous leadership in shaping policy, and the need for reconciliation through education. His experiences offer a powerful perspective on resilience, self-determination, and the pathways toward a more inclusive and just society. Click here to listen to Darrel be interviewed by Jacalyn M. Duffin, Canadian medical historian and hematologist. amshealthcare.ca
This episode features Dr. Kathy Absolon, an Anishinaabe kwe and Associate Professor at Wilfrid Laurier University. She is a scholar and leader in Indigenous methodologies, cultural reclamation, and land-based healing. Growing up in the bush, Kathy developed a deep connection to the land and the Creator—experiences that shaped her identity and informed her life's work. Throughout her journey, she has navigated the challenges posed by the education system and the legacy of residential schools within her family, drawing strength from her spiritual relationship with the earth and her commitment to community. Kathy's profound cultural awakening and healing were catalyzed by Indigenous teachings and gatherings, which inspired her to advocate for the indigenization of education. She emphasizes the importance of holistic practices that honor Indigenous knowledge and ways of being. Through her storytelling and scholarship, Kathy inspires others to bring their whole selves into educational and healing spaces, highlighting the collective responsibility to heal from colonial violence and restore cultural identity. https://amshealthcare.ca/  
This episode features part 2 of 2 with Edna Manitowabi, an esteemed Anishinaabe Elder, Traditional Knowledge Keeper, Educator, and Storyteller from the Wikwemikong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island.  A respected leader in Indigenous education, she has dedicated her life to preserving and sharing the teachings of the Anishinaabe people. As a Professor Emerita at Trent University, Edna played a pivotal role in the Indigenous Studies program, inspiring countless students with her wisdom and commitment to cultural revitalization. Her work emphasizes the importance of traditional healing practices, ceremonies, and storytelling as tools for personal and collective transformation. Edna's profound contributions have been recognized through numerous accolades, but her humility and focus remain on passing forward the ancestral knowledge to future generations. Her voice continues to be a guiding light for those seeking to reconnect with Indigenous teachings and reclaim their identities. In this podcast, we are honoured to hear Edna share her invaluable stories and teachings, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary understanding. amshealthcare.ca
This episode features part 1 of 2 with Edna Manitowabi, an esteemed Anishinaabe Elder, Traditional Knowledge Keeper, Educator, and Storyteller from the Wikwemikong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island.  A respected leader in Indigenous education, she has dedicated her life to preserving and sharing the teachings of the Anishinaabe people. As a Professor Emerita at Trent University, Edna played a pivotal role in the Indigenous Studies program, inspiring countless students with her wisdom and commitment to cultural revitalization. Her work emphasizes the importance of traditional healing practices, ceremonies, and storytelling as tools for personal and collective transformation. Edna's profound contributions have been recognized through numerous accolades, but her humility and focus remain on passing forward the ancestral knowledge to future generations. Her voice continues to be a guiding light for those seeking to reconnect with Indigenous teachings and reclaim their identities. In this podcast, we are honoured to hear Edna share her invaluable stories and teachings, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary understanding. Part 2 will be released on Thurs. December 12th, 2024.  amshealthcare.ca    
This episode features Jerry Fontaine, an esteemed Anishinaabe scholar, author, and community leader from the Sagkeeng First Nation. Known for his dedication to Indigenous sovereignty and environmental justice, Jerry has spent decades working to protect Indigenous rights, traditional lands, and cultural heritage. His work centres on reclaiming and revitalizing Anishinaabe knowledge systems, blending academic rigour with ancestral wisdom to advocate for Indigenous rights. As an author, Jerry has published significant works that explore Indigenous governance, intergenerational resilience, and the teachings of the Anishinaabe people. His commitment to empowering Indigenous youth, preserving language, and advancing community well-being reflects his vision for a future rooted in self-determination and respect for the land. A powerful speaker and advocate, Jerry's voice resonates as a beacon of knowledge, healing, and inspiration for communities locally and globally. https://amshealthcare.ca/  
This episode features Randy Trudeau.  Randy Trudeau is a hunter, trapper, fisher, artist, and traditional medicine harvester from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island, located in Northeastern Ontario. Deeply connected to the land and its teachings, Randy's life revolves around Indigenous practices and traditional ways of living. As a skilled hunter and trapper, he has extensive knowledge of the land's resources and cycles, which he combines with expertise in fishing and traditional medicine harvesting. Randy's art draws inspiration from the natural world and his deep-rooted cultural heritage. His work reflects the beauty and wisdom of his community's traditions. Through his various crafts, Randy continues to share and preserve the stories and teachings of his ancestors, ensuring that these vital practices remain strong in the present and for future generations. amshealthcare.ca/  
Welcome to part two of this two-part special, co-hosted with Dr. Karen Hill of the Department of Family Medicine at McMaster University and host of Two Row Medicine podcast. Two Row Medicine is a new podcast navigating relationships from a traditional Indigenous perspective in the 21st century. On June 8th and 9th, 2024, Indigenous healers, elders, health administrators, and physicians gathered at the Six Nations of the Grand River in Southern Ontario to discuss strategies for addressing the growing demand for Indigenous healers. It was the third gathering, with the previous two taking place on Manitoulin Island and in Rama in 2022. This gathering brought together healers and Indigenous physicians in meaningful dialogue to explore ways of collaborating on health issues, such as addiction. We invited participants to provide their perspectives on collaboration in this episode: Kevin Deer – Lead Cultural Advisor at First Nations Technical Institute Terri Debassige – M'Chigeeng First Nation Randy Trudeau – Artist, designer, and educator Dr. Annelind Wakegijig – Lead Physician at the Baawaating Family Health Team We would like to acknowledge the financial contributions to this podcast made by the Department of Family Medicine at McMaster University and AMS Healthcare. Listen to the Two Row Medicine podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts amshealthcare.ca
Welcome to part one of this two-part special, co-hosted with Dr. Karen Hill of the Department of Family Medicine at McMaster University and host of Two Row Medicine podcast. Two Row Medicine is a new podcast navigating relationships from a traditional Indigenous perspective in the 21st century. On June 8th and 9th, 2024, Indigenous healers, elders, health administrators, and physicians gathered at the Six Nations of the Grand River in Southern Ontario to discuss strategies for addressing the growing demand for Indigenous healers. It was the third gathering, with the previous two taking place on Manitoulin Island and in Rama in 2022. This gathering brought together healers and Indigenous physicians in meaningful dialogue to explore ways of collaborating on health issues, such as addiction. We invited participants to share their perspectives on collaboration. This episode features: Heather McIntyre – Regional Indigenous Cultural Safety Coordinator, Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin Team, BANAC Mike Bisson – Cultural Coordinator, Nogdawindamin Treatment Centre, and Koognaasewin Child Well-being Law Brandon Waindubence – Sheshegwaning First Nation Troy Monague – Traditional Healing Coordinator, Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin Team, BANAC Esstin McLeod – Healer and medicine practitioner in Northern Ontario Dr. Ojistoh Kahnawahere Horn – Family Physician in the Kahnawake and Akwesasne communities Dr. Karen Hill – Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, and host of the Two Row Medicine podcast We would like to acknowledge the financial contributions to this podcast made by the Department of Family Medicine at McMaster University and AMS Healthcare. Listen to the Two Row Medicine podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts amshealthcare.ca
This episode features Dr. Marlene Pierre and Jeordi Pierre of S.O.I.L. - The School for Indigenous Learning in Neebing, Ontario.   Dr. Marlene Pierre is a respected Elder and community leader from Thunder Bay, deeply rooted in her Anishinaabe heritage. With decades of experience in education, healthcare, and cultural preservation, Dr. Pierre has dedicated her life to revitalizing Indigenous knowledge and traditions.   Jeordi Pierre, son of Dr. Marlene Pierre, is a dedicated advocate for Indigenous education and cultural preservation. Raised in Thunder Bay, Jeordi has been immersed in the teachings of his Anishinaabe heritage from a young age. He co-founded the School of Indigenous Learning alongside his mother to ensure that future generations have access to the wisdom of their ancestors. The School of Indigenous Learning offers a cultural environment rooted in Anishinaabeg traditional knowledge and land-based survival skills, embracing the "old way" of life. It is a place where individuals can grow and learn from within, fostering empowerment, self-reliance, and self-confidence. By reconnecting with Mother Earth, who provides everything we need to survive, we can walk the path of a good life in harmony with nature. indlearning.ca amshealthcare.ca
This episode features Ernie and Charlotte Kwandibens.  They are esteemed Indigenous elders and community leaders, renowned for their unwavering dedication to cultural preservation, education, and environmental stewardship. Born and raised within their traditional lands, Ernie a member of Whitesand First Nation, and Charlotte a member of the Waswanabe First Nation, have committed their lives to advocating for the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples. With a wealth of knowledge passed down through generations, Ernie and Charlotte serve as vital bridges between the past and the present. Together, they share stories of resilience, survival, and the profound wisdom of their ancestors, offering guidance and hope to younger generations. Their work in healing the traumas of residential schools has been particularly impactful, as they lead initiatives to foster understanding and reconciliation. Both Ernie and Charlotte are passionate advocates for environmental conservation, emphasizing the sacred relationship between Indigenous peoples and the earth. They collaborate with various organizations to promote sustainable practices and protect natural resources for future generations. Through their storytelling, mentorship, and activism, Ernie and Charlotte Kwandibens continue to inspire and empower their community, ensuring that the voices of Indigenous peoples are heard and respected. http://amshealthcare.ca/  
This episode features Esstin McLeod. Esstin (Niganobe), an Anishinaabe Kwe from the Mississaugi First Nations in Mid-Northern Ontario, is a Healer and Medicine Practitioner. She offers spiritual consultations and remedies to Native healthcare centers in Northern Ontario. In her role as a Medicine Practitioner, Esstin provides plant-based remedies and instructional guidance. As a Healer, she works with spiritual energies, drawing on ceremonial practices and the teachings of Anishinaabe Elders. With 30 years of study and experience, Esstin has developed a workshop series called "Anishinaabe Wisdom Healing." She also leads Anishinaabe women's retreats and healing workshops, utilizing the Medicine Wheel for a holistic approach to health and healing. http://amshealthcare.ca/
loading
Comments 
loading