Pow Wow Pitch Podcast

“Storytelling has always been medicine to our people.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Tessa Belanger, founder of Pass the Sage. Tessa shares how a community-led storytelling project grew into a creative healing platform offering reflection journals and writing workshops rooted in safety, consent, and lived experience. What began as a space for people to share their t...

"The advice we would give to those just starting out, is to plan ahead.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Jennifer and Drew Tenasco, twin sisters and founders of Tendesi Air Fresheners. Jennifer and Drew share how they combined art, retail experience, and powwow connections to turn a simple idea into a growing brand carried across multiple provinces. They reflect on th...

“This idea is very personal to me. This idea is so close to home.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Kendal Garlow, 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Winner and Founder of SproutSync. Kendal shares how her startup is making greenhouse technology more accessible to Indigenous communities through automated monitoring systems designed to work without reliable internet. She reflects on th...

“If you can be self-aware, that’s the best gift in the world.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Donavan Robinson, Founder of Pop CoLab. Donavan shares his journey from graphic designer to building a business centered on strategic play and workplace transformation. He reflects on how a late ADHD diagnosis reshaped his understanding of productivity and why people thrive...

"This work can't continue without you. So, please remember that you are the work." On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Robyn Soulier-Ritchot, Founder of Eagle Medicine Coaching & Consulting, and a 2025 Pow Wow Pitch semi-finalist. Robyn shares how her journey through sobriety, motherhood, and lived experience shaped her calling to support Indigenous youth and purpose-driv...

“Follow your dreams and go for what you've always wanted to become. My late uncle Ronnie, a talented artist and one of my biggest supporters, always told me, ‘Just do it, Priscilla,’ and that advice has stuck with me ever since.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Priscilla Boulay, Founder of Inuvialuit Carvers. Priscilla shares her journey as an artist and entrepreneur,...

“I hope this inspires people to explore beyond what’s immediately available and discover the many untold stories that exist. My hope is that it also encourages more open conversations—especially with Elders and community members—so we can learn, connect, and grow together.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Kariza Manychief, Founder of Night Owl Games. Kariza shares her...

“The first step is strengthening your belief system and mindset—when you truly believe something is possible, you open the door for it to happen.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Darion Ducharme, Founder of Teqare. Darion shares his journey in the tech industry and explores the importance of digital literacy, community collaboration, and redefining what it means to be...

“Education is power. If we want to learn something new, we have to seek out that knowledge from beyond ourselves.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Andrew Dutcher, Founder and Author of Big-Hearted Parenting. Andrew shares his journey as a therapist and writer, and opens up about the intersection of parenting, mental health, and building healthy relationships. He o...

“In the Indigenous fashion movement, uplifting one another should go beyond gatekeeping or keeping things as trade secrets—there’s plenty of space for all of us to thrive. It’s about openness and progress, like an inter-tribal powwow, where everyone comes together, shares ideas, and moves forward as one.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Dante Biss-Grayson, Founder of...

“Recognize your worth and remember that you have something valuable to contribute. Every new interaction is an opportunity—make it count, and build strong relationships with experienced advisors and mentors who can support you and open doors through their networks.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Katelyn Lawson, Relationship Manager, Commercial Banking of Indigenous...

“The first step is making sure you have a plan in place—discuss your responsibilities with your family and build an emergency fund. That way, you won’t have to compromise your personal financial security for your business.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Noah Wilson, Sr. Business Development Manager for the Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program at Futurpreneur. Noa...

“At the end of the day, it’s all about showing up—for yourself. The moment you step up, share your idea, and let your voice be heard—even by just a few people—you’ve already begun the magic.” On this special 50th episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we’re joined by Sunshine Tenasco, Founder & Chair of Pow Wow Pitch. Sunshine reflects on her journey as a mother, entrepreneur, and community builder...

“When we have an opportunity to speak with a mentor, it's important to be real with your situation to truly let that support come to you.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, Anthony Wingham, Co-Founder of Nuez Acres®, shares his journey of building a sustainable, water-free beauty brand powered by pecan oil. A proud Métis entrepreneur, Anthony discusses scaling his business, mentoring I...

“I want to be able to prove to Turtle Island and the world that Indigenous companies can compete with the larger brands.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, Dr. Shyra Barberstock, Co-Founder of Kebaonish Inc. and 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Winner, shares her motivation for starting a product-based business focussed on coffee and tea, highlighting the importance of integrating Indigenous philoso...

“It's not a social spend to make sure Indigenous people are healthy or secure and part of prosperity. I've been saying prosperity since the beginning because I want them to understand that there is no prosperity for Canada going forward without Indigenous prosperity.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, Shannin Metatawabin, a Cree/Inninow from Fort Albany First Nation and CEO of NACCA, d...

“Have courage to put your work out there and the opportunities will come.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we dive into the realms of art, culture, and entrepreneurship with Taalrumiq Christina King, an accomplished Inuvialuk artist, designer, educator, and content creator. Explore how Taalrumiq leverages Inuvialuit culture to empower individuals through her fine art and couture piec...

"Create ideas, bring them to life, and create businesses that can create jobs and opportunities in different places around the world.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we welcome Meli James, born and raised on Oahu and co-founder of Mana Up Hawaii. She shares the unique challenges facing Hawaii and how her team at Mana Up is working to build awareness, connect seasoned operators with...

“One of the most important things that you should do is to invest in yourself first, it's so important for you to be your best self before anything.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we welcome Cece Meadows, a Xicana and Indigena (Yoeme) woman and Founder of Prados Beauty, and 2022 Alumni Prize Winner. Cece dives into the origins of Prados Beauty, the challenges of the beauty industry...

“I think it's important to know that young entrepreneurs are becoming so much more common and kids want to build opportunities for themselves.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast we welcome the incredible 16-year old Founder of Keiki Rise, Coen Cadinha, a Hawaiin youth who built a business accelerator program to support young entrepreneurs. Discover Coen’s extraordinary journey into entr...

“Trust in yourself. Honour all your talents and gifts.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we welcome multifaceted entrepreneur of Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw - Cree, Nisga’a, and Coast Salish heritage, Suzette Amaya. Suzette shares her remarkable journey in the entertainment industry and sheds light on the challenges faced by Indigenous artists, all while inspiring listeners with her passion for f...

“I could see stories coming out of my own community, from my own neighbors, from people I've known my entire life and I could see these stories were important to tell and that I had an obligation to tell them.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we dive into the world of Indigenous storytelling and filmmaking with special guest Ramona Emerson, a Diné writer and filmmaker, and 2023 Pow W...

“I believe that all of us should feel like the work we are doing is going to change the world.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, Sarain Fox, an Anishinaabe multifaceted artist, activist, and 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Award Winner, opens up about her journey as a mother and entrepreneur while delving into the nuances of building a personal brand and forging impactful collaborations...

“We need to rebuild prosperous Indigenous economies and the only way to do that is one entrepreneur at a time.” On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, explore the insightful perspectives of Holly Atjecoutay, Director of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program at Futurpreneur. Holly is a Cree-Saulteaux entrepreneur and offers valuable insights into empowering Indigenous youth through ent...

“I want everyone to come to work being their authentic selves.’’ On this episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, we delve into the journey of Bobbie Racette, a Cree-Metis woman and CEO of The Virtual Gurus and VG OnDemand, and a trailblazing 2022 Indigenous Entrepreneur Award Winner. Bobbie shares insights into revolutionizing the virtual assistance industry, promoting inclusivity, and breaking down...