The Indigenist

Hosted by Steven Vanloffeld

Business Entrepreneurship

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Episodes

Latest episode

Dec 2025

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to The Indigenist Podcast, the place where we shine a spotlight on Indigenous entrepreneurs who are making a difference. Our mission is clear: to amplify the voices of Indigenous leaders whose businesses are touching lives and shaping communities. We're here to share their stories and provide unique insights into the world of Indigenous entrepreneurship. Join our host, Steven Vanloffeld, as he takes you beyond the surface and delves into these authentic and unfiltered stories of resilience, creativity, and success. For more information, visit our website: http://theindigenist.ca/ Be sure to check out our sponsor: https://www.esupplycanada.ca/

Listen to episodes

16 recent

December 16, 2025Episode 1648 min

Episode 16 - Rachael Hunt, Freedom School Co.

Rachael Hunt is a member of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and the founder of Freedom School Co.—a platform where healing meets leadership. She's the creator of The Freedom Method™️, host of The Cycle Breakers Podcast, and an Indigenous Employee Empowerment Consultant helping organizations retain and uplift Indigenous talent. Her work guides Indigenous women navigating two worlds—the modern and the medicine—with confidence, clarity, and connection.In this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld speaks with Rachael about what it means to break cycles, reclaim identity, and build a life that’s spiritually and culturally aligned. She shares her journey from corporate burnout to soul-centered entrepreneurship—and how she now mentors others to do the same.They explore:What it feels like to walk in two worldsThe disconnection from culture—and the path backHow burnout can be a sacred turning pointLeading with intuition, integrity, and Indigenous valuesWhat real empowerment looks like inside systems and beyond themThis episode is for anyone standing at the edge of change—especially those ready to stop hustling and start healing.🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify.Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

November 24, 2025Episode 1544 min

Episode 15 - Jennifer Taback, Design de Plume

What does it take to run an Indigenous-led design agency that challenges industry norms? In this episode, Jennifer Taback – co-founder of Design de Plume – shares how Indigenous leadership and creativity are changing the world of design. She talks about building an agency from the ground up, weaving cultural storytelling into branding, and overcoming challenges with resilience. It’s a warm and inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and the power of staying true to your values in business.Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

October 29, 2025Episode 1441 min

Episode 14 - Shauna White Bear, White Bear Moccasins

In this episode, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Shauna White Bear, an Indigenous entrepreneur and founder of White Bear Moccasins. Shauna shares how a single request for handmade moccasins became the spark for a business rooted in culture, craftsmanship and community. What began in a small cobbler’s shop has grown into a purpose-driven venture determined to keep moccasin-making alive. Through every stitch, she honours the teachings, materials and stories passed down through generations while building a modern brand that brings those traditions into the future.Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

March 20, 2025Episode 1339 min

Episode 13 - Moirae Choquette, Tomato Wheels Lambrusco

In this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Moirae Choquette, an Indigenous entrepreneur and the founder of Tomato Wheels Lambrusco. Moirae is redefining the wine industry with her bold and refreshing take on the classic Italian sparkling red, blending tradition with innovation to create a unique and celebrated wine experience.From her Métis and Ukrainian roots in Saskatchewan to launching one of Canada's most recognized Lambrusco brands, Moirae shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of breaking into the wine industry, and how she built a brand that resonates with wine lovers across the country. She also discusses the importance of trusting your instincts, navigating interprovincial trade barriers, and leveraging creativity to carve out space in a traditionally exclusive industry.Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, innovation, and the power of following your intuition in business.Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

November 25, 2024Episode 1235 min

Episode 12 - Michelle Okere, Indigenous Prosperity Foundation

In this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld chats with Michelle Okere, the inaugural Executive Director of the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation. Michelle shares her remarkable journey from her Métis-Cree roots in Saskatchewan to becoming a leader dedicated to supporting Indigenous women, youth, and underserved entrepreneurs.With her unique perspective shaped by her upbringing and diverse professional experiences, Michelle discusses her path to leadership, the importance of fostering Indigenous entrepreneurship, and the work of the foundation in providing mentorship, financial literacy, and digital access to Indigenous communities across Canada. Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, community, and building opportunities for the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs.Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

September 23, 2024Episode 1145 min

Episode 11 - Carey Calder, Nakanagis Consulting

In this episode of the Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld interviews Carey Calder, a proud Anishinaabe entrepreneur and founder of Nakanagis Consulting. With over 20 years of leadership in Indigenous non-profits, Carey shares her journey from her roots in Thunder Bay to becoming a leader in Indigenous consulting. She discusses her passion for helping organizations and governments manage risk, drive growth, and build innovative partnerships, while reflecting on the cultural and personal experiences that shaped her path. Carey also touches on the challenges she faced breaking into the business world, how community values keep her grounded, her approach to overcoming barriers, and her dedication to creating meaningful change.Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

September 9, 2024Episode 1030 min

Episode 10 - Chad Solomon, Biskane

In this episode of The Indigenous Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Chad Solomon, an Anishinaabe entrepreneur from Henvey Inlet First Nation. Chad shares his inspiring journey from a self-published artist to the founder of Biskane, an online marketplace dedicated to authentic Indigenous art. He discusses the challenges Indigenous artisans face, such as art fraud and limited market access, and how Biskane is opening doors for these creators by connecting them with buyers and retailers. Chad also highlights the importance of relationships, mentorship, and patience in business, offering practical advice for aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. This conversation shines a light on how Indigenous values and a community-first approach can lead to business success, all while preserving culture and promoting economic empowerment. Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

May 8, 2024Episode 937 min

Episode 9 - Sage Paul, Executive & Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Indigenous Fashion Arts

In this captivating episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Sage Paul, the Executive & Artistic Director and co-founder of Indigenous Fashion Arts.Sage, an urban Denesuline woman based in Toronto, shares her inspiring journey and commitment to fostering and celebrating Indigenous expression in fashion and the arts. With almost 20 years of experience as a fashion and costume designer, Sage has led numerous projects, collaborating with organizations such as La Maison Simons, Ikea Canada, Harbourfront Centre, and the Art Gallery of Ontario.Discover how Indigenous Fashion Arts is redefining the fashion landscape by presenting distinct and progressive Indigenous-made works. Through fashion runways, art exhibits, workshops, lectures, panels, and industry networking events, Sage and her team are nurturing deep connections between mainstream fashion, Indigenous art, and traditional practices.As the Executive & Artistic Director of Indigenous Fashion Arts, Sage is dedicated to inspiring and motivating artists, team members, audiences, donors, and stakeholders. Learn about the organization's mission, its impact on the Indigenous fashion and arts community, and its commitment to Indigenous knowledge, ways of life, and storytelling.Join us for an enlightening conversation about creativity, innovation, and the transformative power of Indigenous expression in fashion and the arts.This episode was sponsored by: https://www.esupplycanada.ca/Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

April 30, 2024Episode 837 min

Episode 8 - Drew Denton, President of EME Utility Engineering LP

In this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Drew Denton, President of EME Utility Engineering LP, a company specializing in electrical and mechanical engineering design services for residential, commercial, institutional, and complex buildings.Drew shares the inspiring journey of EME Engineering Inc., a company with a specific focus on renewable and alternative energy projects, including solar PV systems, Energy Storage Systems (ESS), Geothermal systems, and rainwater harvesting. EME's design staff are Passive House Canada certified, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and innovation.Discover how EME Engineering Inc. is pioneering utility engineering while weaving Indigenous heritage into the fabric of modern engineering excellence. Drew discusses the company's mission, focused on building long-term client relationships and nurturing deep-rooted connections with communities.Join us for an insightful conversation about engineering, the challenges of a startup, and the profound impact of giving back.This episode was sponsored by: https://www.esupplycanada.ca/Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.

April 24, 2024Episode 734 min

Episode 7 - Jenn Harper, Founder of Cheekbone Beauty

In this beautiful, honest and raw episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Jenn Harper, the visionary founder of Cheekbone Beauty, an Indigenous-owned sustainable colour cosmetics brand.Jenn shares her remarkable journey of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community impact, highlighting the importance of Indigenous wisdom and representation in the beauty industry. From her Anishinaabe roots to the founding of Cheekbone Beauty, Jenn's commitment to making a difference is evident in every aspect of her work.Discover how Cheekbone Beauty is not only creating clean, vegan, and sustainable cosmetics but also giving back to Indigenous communities. Jenn discusses the creation of the Cheekbone Beauty Scholarship Fund, her groundbreaking work, and the brand's mission to empower Indigenous youth.With over $150,000 donated to various causes, including Shannen’s Dream, the FNCS, the Navajo Water Project, and One Tree Planted, Cheekbone Beauty is making a tangible difference in the lives of Indigenous youth and sustainability efforts.Join us for an insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, sustainability, and the transformative power of giving back to the community.This episode was sponsored by: https://www.esupplycanada.ca/Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.