Growth Mixtape Podcast with Bob Mathers
Listen to my conversations with the most interesting people you may not have come across yet. These conversations might not seem to have a lot in common at first. But just like songs on a mixtape, they create something memorable and emotional. So, let's press play and see what we learn about ourselves.
I'm Bob Mathers, host of the Growth Mixtape podcast. I love chasing my curiosity; the further from my comfort zone, the better. I find the most powerful ideas, the ones that compel us to do bold things, happen by accident.
It is these unexpected collisions that I’m excited to explore in this new podcast. These conversations always give me new insights I never would have gotten from other experts in my field.
Please join me for stories from leaders in business, the sciences, academia and the arts. My goal in every episode is to provide you with a surprising insight that you can apply right now to get unstuck and start building the business and the life you've always wanted.
Growth Mixtape Podcast with Bob Mathers
Trauma, Healing and Purpose through an Indigenous Lens with Clarence Cachagee
Today I talk to Clarence Cachagee, an Indigenous leader, author and founder of Crow Shield Lodge - a land-based healing center for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
So, I don’t know how to explain this conversation and when you listen, you’ll know what I mean. Talking to Clarence, you’re struck by how peaceful, thoughtful and hopeful he is for someone who has been through such trauma. He talks about being placed in foster care with his sister at an early age, discovering alcohol at 8 years old, abandoning his high-school sweetheart and their two young daughters, living on the streets, being incarcerated - and then finding his way back. He got sober, graduated from college, reconciled with his family, and, most importantly, reconnected with the land and his Indigenous roots.
I’ve got a lot to learn about Indigenous teachings. So when Clarence talks about kindness, compassion, finding your purpose, and being of service - it's with a different lens than I’m used to. I’ve got a lot of work to do, and Clarence makes me feel ok about that.
https://www.amazon.ca/North-Wind-Man-Clarence-Cachagee/dp/1990827039Please enjoy, Clarence Cachagee.
Key Takeaways:
- Prayer as a Tool for Connection: Clarence explains how “praying forward” shifts the focus from personal needs to collective healing and gratitude.
- Healing Through the Land: The land holds the wisdom and medicine needed for healing and reconnection. All our teachings, ceremonies, and belonging are rooted in it.
- The Power of a Spirit Name: Receiving his name, North Wind Man, was pivotal for Clarence. It helped him rediscover his purpose: to bring change and foster connection.
- Breaking the Cycle of Trauma: Intergenerational trauma runs deep, but healing begins with acknowledgment, patience, and working for future generations.
- Truth and Reconciliation: We’re still in the truth stage, and it’s hard work. Allyship, listening, and challenging the status quo are critical for meaningful progress.
- The Importance of Alternatives: Clarence advocates for new pathways in health care, education, and justice systems to create spaces for Indigenous perspectives and healing.
- Hope for the Future: Being a “best ancestor” today involves creating opportunities and removing barriers for future generations to thrive.
Resources:
- Crow Shield Lodge
- Donate to Crow Shield Lodge
- Follow Clarence on Twitter, https://www.facebook.com/crowshieldlodge, https://www.instagram.com/crowshieldlodge/
- North Wind Man by Clarence Cachagee
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