In this episode, Scott and Dan welcome renowned chef Shane Chartrand to the table for a wide-ranging and heartfelt conversation. From humble beginnings in rural Alberta to competing on Top Chef Canada, Shane shares his journey through food, culture, and identity.
Together they explore:
🌾 Shane’s early days growing up on a farm and how food first became his calling
🔥 His competitive spirit in culinary contests and the lessons learned from winning—and losing
🍲 Staying true to Indigenous roots in the world of fine dining and television
🌍 Traveling, learning from communities across Canada and beyond, and honoring cultural food traditions
💡 The challenges of representing Indigenous cuisine in mainstream culinary spaces
❤️ How food can heal, connect people, and preserve culture—from cooking with youth to dreaming of programs for the incarcerated
📚 His acclaimed cookbook tawâw and future plans for Indigenous culinary experiences in Edmonton
This is more than a conversation about cooking—it’s about resilience, truth, and the power of food to bridge cultures and tell stories.
🔗 Connect with Chef Shane Chartrand
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok: @shanemshartrand
📖 Book: tawâw: Progressive Indigenous Cuisine