Rooted in Gwekwaadziwin: Season 1, Episode 9 - Dr. Nav Persaud

In this episode of Rooted in Gwekwaadziwin, Matt and Sam sit down with Dr. Nav Persaud — a family physician, researcher, and longtime advocate for health equity — to explore the role of research within land-based healing.

Through years of connection with Gwekwaadziwin Miikan and its participants, Dr. Persaud reflects on both the value and the limitations of western approaches to mental health and addictions care. This conversation moves beyond traditional definitions of treatment and success, challenging listeners to consider what healing looks like when it is grounded in land, culture, and connection.

This episode explores:

• The difference between research and outcome measurement
• Why traditional metrics often fail to capture meaningful healing
• The importance of listening to participant experiences and stories
• How connection to land, culture, and family shapes wellness
• The role of humility in healthcare and research

Dr. Persaud also shares reflections from his time visiting Gwekwaadziwin Miikan, including moments that reshaped his understanding of healing — from walking the land with participants to witnessing the broader impact on families and communities.

At its core, this conversation is about rethinking systems — and recognizing that meaningful change doesn’t come from simply adjusting existing models, but from listening to voices and knowledge systems that have long been overlooked.