In the heart of the Woodland Cree First Nation, nestled within the serene beauty of Alberta’s vast boreal forest, something remarkable is happening. On 99.9 FM The OHO, the Pulse Podcast brings the voices of Cadotte Lake’s youth and community members to the airwaves—creating not just a radio show but a platform for hope, resilience, and authentic connection.

LISTEN: The First Eposide of The Pulse Podcast
LISTEN to 99.9 The OHO ONLINE HERE 

🌿 A Space for Real Conversations

Hosted by Jesse Martineau, The Pulse Podcast captures stories that matter, straight from the voices of the students and community members of Cadotte Lake School. From the very first moment Jesse drove into the community, he felt something rare—a deep, genuine sense of hope. This podcast seeks to amplify that feeling, bringing attention to both the joys and struggles that shape life on the reserve.

These aren’t just conversations; they’re reflections of lived experiences, raw emotions, and the power of community connection. Students like Storm, Annabelle, Jana, and many others bravely share their perspectives on growing up in Cadotte Lake, their experiences with mental health, and what it means to be Indigenous in today’s world.

🎧 Giving Students a Voice

One of the podcast’s most powerful aspects is how it provides young people with an opportunity to share their stories in their own words. From discussions about creative outlets like art and music to tackling difficult topics like mental health and personal struggles, The Pulse Podcast is a safe space for open dialogue.

The students discuss:

• 🎨 Creative expression: Whether it’s drawing, painting sunsets, or playing instruments like the bass and drums, creative arts play a huge role in helping these young voices find peace and resilience.
• 🧠 Mental health: Many students share candidly about their mental health challenges. Siblings supporting each other, friends offering a listening ear, and the power of community shine through as recurring themes.
• 💭 The power of hope: Even amidst struggles with anxiety, loss, and fear, these conversations reflect a collective belief in a better tomorrow—a hope that future generations will grow up in a stronger, more supportive environment.

🦅 Honoring Indigenous Identity

For many, being Indigenous is a source of both pride and challenge. The podcast doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, like the fear many young Indigenous women face due to the realities of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG). The youth share personal reflections about safety, cultural pride, and the importance of reclaiming their voices through initiatives like The Pulse Podcast.

As one student poignantly expressed, “I’m proud of where I come from, but I wish kids could feel safer, like when we were younger and free to play without fear.”

📻 The Pulse of Woodland—More Than Just a Podcast

What makes this project truly unique is how it ties together the creative energy of the students with the rich cultural heritage of the Woodland Cree Nation. The radio station isn’t just a school project—it’s a beacon of community pride and resilience. With segments like the Storm Power Hour, which highlights metal music, or early-morning Indigenous music hours, the station reflects the diversity and richness of life in Cadotte Lake.

The podcast’s overarching message is clear: every voice matters. Whether young or old, everyone has a story to tell, and every perspective can inspire change.

🌟 A Thought for Today: Listening as a Tool for Change

As Jesse beautifully reflects at the end of the podcast:

“Imagine a round table with a vase of flowers in the center. Everyone around the table sees the flowers differently, depending on where they’re sitting. No perspective is wrong—it’s simply a different view.”

This powerful metaphor reminds us that the true magic happens when we listen to every voice around the table, especially those that are often unheard.

🔊 How You Can Tune In

Catch The Pulse Podcast every Wednesday at 7 p.m. on 99.9 FM The OHO—The Pulse of Woodland. Episodes are replayed throughout the week, and you can also listen anytime by visiting the Cadotte Lake School Facebook page.

If you have a story suggestion or want to nominate someone as a guest, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, let’s continue to support these young voices as they share their stories, inspire hope, and build a brighter future for the Woodland Cree First Nation.

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