In this compelling episode of the Juku'e podcast, host Sean Doke speaks with Monica MacDonald, Senior Strategic Advisor for History and Outreach at L’nuey, about one of the most important - and often misunderstood - aspects of Mi’kmaw–Crown relations: the Covenant Chain of Treaties. This episode explores the historical foundations of a series of Peace and Friendship Treaties that continue to shape the present. Monica brings her expertise in Mi’kmaw treaty history and archival research to unpack how these agreements came to be, what they meant at the time, and why they still matter today. The Covenant Chain represents more than just a diplomatic framework - it’s a powerful symbol of nation-to-nation diplomacy, mutual recognition, and enduring responsibility. Monica helps us understand how these early treaties were intended to establish peaceful coexistence, and how the Mi’kmaq held fast to these principles despite centuries of denial and disregard by colonial governments. This episode is a vital listen for anyone interested in reconciliation, historical truth, and the shared responsibilities that come with living on this land. Whether you’re Mi’kmaw or a guest on Epekwitk (PEI), Monica’s insights will help you see the Covenant Chain not as a relic of the past, but as a living commitment that continues to guide the path forward.

The journey to establish Pituamkek as Canada’s 48th National Park Reserve (NPR) has reached a historic milestone with the signing of the Establishment Agreement — but the real work is just beginning. In this episode, host Sean Doke speaks with Jenene Wooldridge, Executive Director of L’nuey, and Jesse Francis, Parks Canada’s Implementation Manager for Pituamkek NPR, about what this moment means for the Mi’kmaq of Epekwitk and for the future of protected lands on Epekwitk/Prince Edward Island.They explore how Pituamkek represents reconciliation in action — through an innovative co-management model that honours Mi’kmaw rights, knowledge, and stewardship. The conversation touches on cultural and ecological significance, the long journey to recognition, and the opportunities this creates for employment, tourism, and stronger community ties.With the public recruitment process for the new Pituamkek Co-Management Board underway and closing soon, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how co-management between the Mi’kmaq and Parks Canada will work in practice — and how this collaborative approach marks a meaningful step toward Mi’kmaw self-determination.

In this powerful episode of the Juku’e podcast, host Sean Doke sits down with renowned powwow singer and Mi'kmaw cultural educator Michael R. Denny for an inspiring conversation on the power of tradition, resilience, and cultural pride.Michael shares his personal journey—growing up Mi’kmaq, discovering his voice through song, and dedicating his life to preserving and promoting Mi’kmaw heritage. As a key figure at Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey, he speaks to the importance of integrating authentic Mi'kmaw cultural practices like the ji’kmaqn (instrument) and ko’jua (dance) into education, ensuring that future generations learn, carry, and celebrate these traditions.With deep insight and heartfelt stories, Michael reflects on his role as a knowledge keeper, the challenges of cultural revitalization, and the dreams he holds for the future of his people. Whether you’re Mi’kmaq or a guest on this land, this conversation offers meaningful lessons about identity, community, and the enduring spirit of the Mi’kmaq. 

In this episode of Juku’e, host Sean Doke speaks with Jesse Francis and Tracey Cutcliffe, two key figures in the journey to establish Pituamkek as a National Park Reserve. Together, they explore the foundational work that led to the establishment, including the determination of Mi'kmaw leadership and collaborative effort with Parks Canada, the cultural and ecological significance of this sacred landscape, and how this milestone represents a step forward in Mi’kmaw rights and reconciliation.Tune in to learn about the history of Pituamkek, the ongoing work of the Pituamkek Conservation Project, and the next steps in the establishment of Pituamkek, where Mi’kmaw knowledge and stewardship will guide the protection of this extraordinary place.

In this episode of Juku’e, host Sean Doke sits down with acclaimed Anishinaabe journalist and author Tanya Talaga to discuss her latest book, The Knowing. Tanya, a member of Fort William First Nation, is known for her powerful storytelling in Seven Fallen Feathers and All Our Relations, and her latest work offers an intimate look at her family’s experiences with residential schools and the broader truths of colonization. Sean and Tanya explore the importance of retelling history from an Indigenous perspective, the emotional weight of truth-telling, and the role of storytelling in reconciliation. They also discuss systemic injustices, the state of Treaty rights in Canada, and the future of Indigenous-led media, along with Tanya’s work through Makwa Creative and beyond. Join us for an insightful and deeply personal conversation about resilience, history, and the power of Indigenous voices.

Join us on Juku’e for this short episode as we explore a groundbreaking archaeological discovery near Stanhope, PEI – the 5,000-year-old remains of the earliest known Indigenous ancestor on Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island). This jawbone fragment, belonging to a Mi’kmaw woman, reveals invaluable insights into the Island’s ancient past and the enduring legacy of the Mi’kmaq, who have called this land home for over 12,000 years. Hear from L’nuey’s Executive Director Jenene Wooldridge and Senior Archaeologist Dr. Helen Kristmanson about how this discovery is enhancing understandings of Mi’kmaw history and sparking a renewed focus on cultural heritage through L’nuey’s newly launched Archaeology Program. Tune in to learn how combining archaeological research with Mi’kmaw traditional knowledge is challenging historical narratives and ensuring that Mi’kmaw voices lead the way in preserving the past and shaping the future.

In this episode, Sean speaks in depth with L’nuey Senior Archaeologist Dr. Helen Kristmanson to learn about exciting work underway on Epekwitk (PEI), building the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq’s capacity, archaeology dating back 13,000 years, and history of some significant sites – including Pituamkek (Hog Island and Sandhills), which is set to become a National Park Reserve.    Tune in to hear how archaeology ties in to the broader scope of Mi’kmaw rights, and ultimately, the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq reclaiming part of their history and culture.

In this episode, Juku’e host Sean Doke speaks with L’nuey Executive Director Jenene Wooldridge to discuss the 2024 Epekwitk Nationhood Gathering that was held last month, and why this event is so important in working toward Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq self-determination and governance. They chat about highlights from the gathering, how things have changed since the first gathering in 2019, progress related to Mi'kmaq rights, different areas of L'nuey's rights-based work, and the Mi'kmaq of Epekwitk creating a vision for the future to rebuild their Nation and fully realize their rights.

In this episode, Juku’e host Sean Doke speaks with his colleague, L’nuey Senior Negotiator Tracey Cutcliffe. Tracey breaks down the context and history around the Hog Island specific claim that is currently in negotiations in Epekwitk (PEI). Hog Island (also known as Pituamkek) is a barrier island off the northwestern coast of Epekwitk, and home to ongoing and traditional land use by the Mi’kmaq since time immemorial. Tracey also gives a broader view of how specific claims work and their purpose, details and next steps for the Hog Island specific claim, and what this could mean for the Mi’kmaq of Epekwitk if the claim is settled.

In this episode, Juku’e host Sean Doke speaks with Mi’kmaw artist and educator Gerald Gloade from Millbrook First Nation in Nova Scotia, who is a wealth of cultural knowledge and also the Program Development Officer for the Mi’kmawey Debert Cultural Centre. Gerald talks about how he began his cultural knowledge-sharing journey, the significance of traditional districts in Mi’kma’ki, amazing archaeology finds that reveal insights into the past, the Mi’kmaw ecological calendar and 13 moons, legends of Glooscap, pattern recognition and storytelling as the key to survival, Mi’kmaw sports that contributed to modern day hockey and lacrosse, and more! Be sure to check out this Mi’kmaq History Month special to learn about Mi’kmaq heritage, culture, and traditions, and expand your knowledge with a renowned Mi’kmaw educator!   To learn more about the Mi’kmaq, visit lnuey.ca and mikmaweydebert.ca.