Generations Ahead

In this episode of Generations Ahead, host Sara Wolfe speaks with Carol Anne Hilton, founder of the Indigenomics Institute, about the economic impact of the Indian Act on Indigenous communities in Canada. Hilton explains her concept of "Indigenomics," which reframes Indigenous peoples as key contributors to Canada’s economy.

The discussion highlights the differences between Indigenous and Western economic systems, the importance of economic reconciliation, and the use of technology and new metrics—beyond GDP—to measure Indigenous economic power and sustainability. The episode emphasizes how Indigenous leadership and innovation is actively shaping Canada’s economic future.

Note: Carol Anne mentions that Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Act focuses on 92 calls to action. In fact there are 94 calls to action.

About Carol Anne Hilton

Carol Anne is the founder and CEO of the Indigenomics Institute and the Global Centre of Indigenomics.

A pioneer in the sector, she coined the term “Indigenomics” in 2012. What started as a simple hashtag has since become a global movement, reframing Indigenous Peoples as central contributors to modern economies.

Carol Anne’s acclaimed book, Indigenomics: Taking a Seat at the Economic Table, serves as a blueprint for economic reconciliation. It was shortlisted for the 2021 Donner Prize, and the Financial Post called it "revelatory.”

Her second book,The Rise of Indigenous Economic Power- Deconstructing Indian Act Economics, was released in the spring of 2025. In it, Carol Anne powerfully breaks down the colonial and racist policies of the Indian Act that have hindered Indigenous participation in Canada’s economy for decades – and maps an ethical way forward for all of us, rooted in radical inclusion and Indigenomics in action.

Resources Mentioned / Links List

• wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcasts
• https://indigenomics.com/

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Find out more about the innovative work shaping our communities at Wilson College at wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcast

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In this episode of Generations Ahead, host Sara Wolfe and guest Shane Feldman explore the future of work and leadership amid rapid technological change. They discuss the importance of trust, curiosity, and authentic relationships in building resilient teams. Shane shares his “ABCs of trust” framework and insights from global leadership experiences, emphasizing that soft skills and human connection will be vital as AI and automation reshape workplaces. The conversation highlights the need for leaders to foster inclusive, innovative cultures and to approach challenges with curiosity and empathy to prepare for an evolving world.

About Shane Feldman

Shane Feldman has spent his career decoding the workplace. A world-renowned expert in workplace culture and corporate relationships, and a sought-after keynote speaker, Shane has spent the last decade researching community leadership, human behaviour, relationships, and workplace culture on the ground—crisscrossing over a hundred towns, cities, and villages on six continents.

An entrepreneur and consultant, Shane's “Leadership Passport” framework helps companies cultivate work environments rooted in community, enabling individuals and teams to perform at their highest levels.

As a leading international speaker, Shane has given keynotes for well-known brands across every sector, including Microsoft, Mercedes-Benz, PwC, YPO, TD Bank, Shopify, ADP, and Kaiser Permanente.

He’s been recognized by presidents, prime ministers, the White House, and the United Nations, and named one of North America’s Top 40 Under 40 LGBTQ+ Leaders.

Everywhere he goes, Shane strives to build frameworks that help leaders create relationships and workplaces.

Resources Mentioned / Links List

• wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcasts
• https://www.shanefeldman.com/

Enjoyed this Episode?

If you did, be sure to subscribe and share it with your friends! Generations Ahead is a podcast about exploring creative solutions shaping the future of Canada...and the world.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review. Share it with friends and colleagues. Let's inspire everyone to work towards a better future!

Find out more about the innovative work shaping our communities at Wilson College at wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcast

Thank you for tuning in!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does democracy mean for young Canadians today, and how can we inspire them to participate meaningfully in shaping the future? In this episode of Generations Ahead, External Director for Wilson College at McMaster University, Sara Wolfe, sits down with Executive Director of Apathy is Boring, Sam Reusch, a non-partisan organization dedicated to empowering young people to engage in Canada’s democracy.

Sam shares her insights on why trust in politicians is at a historic low, how social media and AI are reshaping civic engagement, and the innovative programs her organization uses to connect young people with democratic processes—from dinner table discussions to youth-led initiatives and advocacy campaigns. They also explore the pillars of a strong democracy, the challenges of pluralism in polarized times, and the importance of investing in civil society for future generations.

About Sam Reusch

Sam Reusch is the Executive Director of Apathy is Boring, one of Canada’s largest non-partisan, democracy organizations. Since stepping into the role in 2020, she has led the organization through a period of growth and transformation, expanding its national reach and deepening its impact at the intersection of civic engagement, youth leadership, and democratic innovation.

With nearly a decade of experience in the democracy sector, Sam has been a leading voice on issues of participation, elections, and democratic resilience. She has spearheaded initiatives such as the Better Democracy Roadmap and the Canadian Democracy Endowment, positioning Apathy is Boring at the forefront of efforts to strengthen trust and accountability in institutions and build a democracy that is fit for the 21st century.

Beyond her role at Apathy is Boring, Sam serves as a board member with Volunteer Canada and is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her contributions to civic life in Canada. She regularly contributes to national conversations on democratic reform, youth engagement, and the future of civil society in Canada.

Resources Mentioned / Links List

• wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcasts
• https://www.apathyisboring.com/

Enjoyed this Episode?

If you did, be sure to subscribe and share it with your friends! Generations Ahead is a podcast about exploring creative solutions shaping the future of Canada...and the world.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review. Share it with friends and colleagues. Let's inspire everyone to work towards a better future!

Find out more about the innovative work shaping our communities at Wilson College at wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcast

Thank you for tuning in!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.