🎧 Listen to Episode 24 now and join us in exploring Indigenous healing, resilience, and cultural reconnection with Morgan Rashke.

▶️ Watch on YouTube | 🎙️ Listen on Podbean

In Episode 24 of Dénht’ā, host Ella Lamoureux welcomes Morgan Rashke, a proud member of the West Bank First Nations, for a deep and powerful conversation about identity, healing, and cultural reconnection.

Morgan shares his personal and professional journey, weaving together his experiences as an artist, academic, and community leader. His insights shed light on the importance of decolonial therapy, the diverse ways people experience suffering, and the strength that comes from reclaiming Indigenous language, heritage, and traditions.

A Journey of Art, Identity, and Healing

From his early artistic explorations to his academic work in counseling psychology, Morgan’s story is one of resilience and reconnection. He reflects on how cultural influences shape his writing and the challenges of navigating academia as an Indigenous person.

One of the most powerful themes of the episode is the importance of decolonizing counseling—bringing Indigenous worldviews and community healing practices into the mental health space. By reframing therapy through a decolonial lens, Morgan emphasizes that true healing must acknowledge historical trauma while celebrating cultural identity.

Reconnecting with Roots

Morgan speaks candidly about the challenges of reconnecting with culture, including his journey in learning his Indigenous language and embracing his role as a “Salmon Warrior.” This work represents not just environmental stewardship, but also the responsibility to carry cultural teachings forward for future generations.

He shares stories of summer memories, family roots, and the power of community support in maintaining Indigenous identity. Through these reflections, Morgan highlights how heritage and healing are deeply interconnected, reminding us of the strength that comes from cultural preservation.

Why This Conversation Matters

This episode is more than a personal story—it’s a call to reflect on how we view mental health, community, and culture. Listeners will gain insight into:

- The role of Indigenous identity in building resilience.
- How language preservation strengthens cultural connection.
- The importance of community healing in addressing trauma.
- The challenges and triumphs of navigating colonial systems of academia while staying rooted in tradition.

About the Podcast: Dénht’ā

Dénht’ā means “Hi. How are you?” in the Kaska Dene language. Hosted by Ella Lamoureux, the show amplifies Indigenous voices and explores what it means to navigate a colonial world while staying connected to culture. Each episode brings forward stories of resilience, creativity, and identity, offering listeners an opportunity to learn, reflect, and connect.

About the Host: Ella Lamoureux

A beloved figure in the Kelowna drag scene, Ella is known not only for her artistry and quick wit but also for her ability to create spaces of love, joy, and connection. With her warm presence and sharp insight, she invites guests and listeners alike into conversations that matter.