In this inspiring episode of The Packsack Project, join us as we chat with Denise Atkinson, the pioneering Ojibwe entrepreneur behind Thunder Bay's Tea Horse. Denise delves into her innovative fusion of traditional manoomin (wild rice) with Japanese Hojicha / green teas, creating a unique loose-leaf blend that’s capturing the attention of tea enthusiasts across North America. Hear about her entrepreneurial journey, the e-commerce strategies propelling her brand, and her remarkable collaboration with DAVID'sTEA, placing Tea Horse at the forefront of Indigenous tea craft in Canada.

_

The Packsack Project is a collaborative podcast from the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre's Rural Agri-Innovation Network (RAIN) and NORDIK Institute, sharing real life stories and experiences of Northern Ontario's resilience.

Join NORDIK's Amy Boyer in this eye-opening episode with Charlene Mandamin, Ontario Works Administrator at Shoal Lake #39 Independent First Nation. Dive into Charlene’s transformative work on food sovereignty and mental well-being in her community. From seasonal calendars that guide traditional activities to innovative food products like wild rice bars, explore how Charlene’s initiatives offer a culturally-rooted, adaptive, and holistic approach to life promotion.

👉 Episode Highlights:

• Discover how Charlene is addressing a gap in services for young adults aged 16-to-29 through land-based programs.
• Explore the seasonal calendar that guides life-promoting activities like ice fishing and berry harvesting.
• Learn about the school-based greenhouse initiative that serves multiple community needs, from education to sustenance.
• Take a closer look at unique community food products, including their journey from concept to market.
• Hear Charlene's advice for long-term planning and the importance of identifying supporting partners.

Subscribe to the Packsack Project for more stories and insights into the resilience and innovation found in Northern Ontario's rural and Indigenous communities. 👇🔔

_

The Packsack Project is a collaborative podcast from the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre's Rural Agri-Innovation Network (RAIN) and NORDIK Institute, sharing real life stories and experiences of Northern Ontario's resilience.

This episode takes a close look at large animal veterinary services in Northern Ontario, featuring insights from dairy farmer Charles Regele and veterinarian Keith Good. Charles discusses the real-world challenges faced by farmers, the role of local support networks, and the potential of digital applications like VetsON. Keith offers a professional's perspective on practicing veterinary medicine in the North, exploring unique challenges, potential legislative changes, and the influence of technology on future practices. Together, their conversations shine a light on the complex and evolving landscape of rural veterinary care, providing valuable insights for farmers, veterinarians, and anyone interested in large animal health in this unique region.

_

The Packsack Project is a collaborative podcast from the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre's Rural Agri-Innovation Network (RAIN) and NORDIK Institute, sharing real life stories and experiences of Northern Ontario's resilience.