In this episode of the Indigenous Voices in Resource Development podcast, John Desjarlais sits down with Jeff Green, Global Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Vale Base Metals and a member of the Michi Saagiig Nation in Ontario. Together, they discuss Jeff’s career journey from journalism to leadership in the natural resource sector, and the values of service, responsibility, and relationship-building that have guided his path.
The conversation explores the evolving role of mining and critical minerals in Canada, including the growing importance of innovation, modernization, and responsible development. Jeff reflects on how public perceptions of mining often lag behind the reality of how advanced and future-focused the industry has become, and why this matters for Canada’s economic and energy future.
John and Jeff also speak about the importance of Indigenous representation in leadership, the value of bringing your whole self to work, and why role models and visible Indigenous leadership matter in corporate spaces. The episode highlights how mentorship, relationships, and community support shape careers, and why no one succeeds alone.