The Rundown
This episode takes us on an arctic journey where we explore the life and words of a remarkable Canadian, children’s author and storyteller Michael Kusugak. Next, the story of how thousands of farmers across the country have assisted the Canada Food Bank to ensure food security for all Canadians and help defeat hunger even in the darkest times.
Michael Kusugak and the Power of Stories
Michael Kusugak grew up in Repulse Bay, almost a stone’s throw from the Arctic Circle. As a child he lived a traditional Inuit life, travelling the tundra, snow and sea ice of Hudson’s Bay with his extended family and hearing, from his grandmother and other elders the stories of his people. Michael was one of the first Inuit to write those stories down and share them in books and in person with thousands of Canadian children, and adults. I had the pleasure of speaking with Michael about his life, the power of stories and a way of life dear to his heart.
Kirstin Beardsley on Food Banks Canada and Farmers
Kirstin Beardsley is the Chief Network Services Officer at Food Banks Canada. For decades food banks have been providing nutritious food to those most in need across Canada. I recently had a chance to talk with her about how farmers help especially when it comes to fresh food, even over long distances.
End Notes
Want more Harrowsmith? No problem. Visit our website. And, you can read Vanessa’s story on ticks in the Spring issue of Harrowsmith Magazine. It’s on selected newsstands across Canada or you can order subscriptions online at harrowsmithmag.com.
By the way, the music in the podcast? It’s by good ol’ Canadian singer, composer and friend of the ‘cast, David Archibald. You can find more of his music at his website, davidarchibald.com.
Wayne is a digital strategist with extensive experience in traditional, online and communication strategy development. He has assisted clients like Random House (where he helped establish digital outreach programs), the Association of Science and Technology Centers, McMaster Family Medicine, rabble.ca, University of Toronto, Engineering reimagine their communications strategies for an emerging media landscape and new audiences. Wayne brings three decades of rich media content creation, a background in journalism and the ability to creatively understand brand and messaging and create new platforms and opportunities for Moongate’s clients. He has taught and developed online content creation and communications for a variety of colleges and universities in Ontario.