You will soon hear why I found Derek Blais an exceptional guest. He has the spirit of youth but with the presence and insights of an elder. Derek's journey embodies the spirit of Chatter that Matters by sharing how he overcame circumstances to chase his dreams but change his world and ours for the better.

Derek speaks candidly about his struggles and triumphs, including the pivotal moment of embracing his Indigenous identity and the profound impact of a life-threatening and then-changing motorcycle accident.

I begin the interview by sharing Derek's mantra - "Be yourself. Everyone else is taken," setting the tone for exploring authenticity, truth and reconciliation. Derek's mother is a victim of the sixties scoop, where Indigenous babies and children were taken from their parents and communities and placed in primarily white and middle-class homes. Derek's Father is Canadian, and Derek draws upon the tales of his two peoples to help shape who he is, why he matters and how through storytelling he can bring about positive change.

Derek's international award-winning and groundbreaking project, Missing Matoaka, challenges the romanticized Disney portrayal of Pocahontas by telling the true story, a tale of tragedy and heartbreak, while also calling for justice in the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Today, at LifeLong Crush a boutique advertising agency, Derek is a creative leader who works with his team to tackle many societal and brand issues.

It is a fantastic tale of two peoples, with many lessons to be discovered and learned, all wrapped within his brilliant creative mind.

To learn more about LIFELONG CRUSH - https://www.lifelongcrush.com