TIABC’s Voice of Tourism Podcast – Episode 44 – Mike Retasket

Meet Mike Retasket, as he is welcomed by TIABC CEO Walt Judas for a powerful conversation about Indigenous leadership, cultural preservation, and the journey from activism to reconciliation through tourism. Mike currently serves as a Director for the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, New Pathways to Gold Society, and TIABC. In this episode, Mike shares his remarkable path from crossing the US-Canada border to becoming Chief of the Bonaparte Indian Band, his transformation from Olympic protestor to one of the Games’ most photographed Indigenous ambassadors, and his current work as a cultural interpreter and storyteller at Barkerville Historic Town and Park.

This episode also explores the complexities of Aboriginal title, the Heritage Conservation Act, and what meaningful reconciliation looks like in BC’s tourism landscape, offering invaluable insights for anyone committed to building authentic Indigenous partnerships.