In this episode of Rooted in Gwekwaadziwin, Sam and Matt sit down with Paul Francis to discuss Indigenous health leadership, traditional healing, and the future of reconciliation within Ontario’s health care system.

Paul shares his journey from his Manitoulin and Thunder Bay roots to leadership roles in social work, education, mental health, addictions, and health care. Drawing on his experience at St. Joseph’s Care Group and his current work with the Ontario Hospital Association, he reflects on the importance of Indigenous-led approaches, cultural safety, and creating meaningful change within large institutions.

Together, they explore the role of traditional healing alongside Western medicine, the importance of Indigenous representation in leadership, the ongoing impacts of residential schools and Indian hospitals, and what  ...