APTN News InFocus

APTN News InFocus

APTN News InFocus explores the stories and issues affecting Indigenous Peoples through expert interviews and meaningful conversations. Hosted by reporter Cierra Bettens, each episode offers unique insights and context from people who know the stories best.

Episodes

May 1, 2025 29 mins

This week on APTN News InFocus, we break down the results of the April 28 federal election.

The Liberals remain in power and the Conservatives will form the official opposition. The Bloc Québécois lost seats and the NDP dropped to just seven—losing official party status in the process.

Mark as Played

This week on APTN News InFocus, host Cierra Bettens checks in as the federal election campaign hits its final stretch.

For more than a month, party leaders have been making promises about prosperity, wealth and good governance—but what’s in it for Indigenous Peoples?

Mark as Played

This week on APTN InFocus, host Cierra Bettens explores the growing movement for Indigenous data sovereignty.

In a TED Talk, British investigative journalist Carole Cadwalladr warns we may already be “living inside the architecture of totalitarianism,” referring to the predatory ways big tech companie...

Mark as Played

This week on APTN News InFocus, host Cierra Bettens unpacks the latest controversy over Métis identity in Ontario.

The Métis National Council released a report suggesting the existence of seven historic Métis communities in the province—a claim swiftly rejected by the Manitoba Métis Federation, Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, Métis Nation British Columbia and the Chiefs of Ontario.

Read more

Mark as Played

This week on APTN InFocus, host Cierra Bettens explores what Arctic sovereignty really means for Inuit in the North.

As federal leaders call for more military infrastructure - from bases in Iqaluit to new fleets of fighter jets - questions are being raised about who these efforts protect, and at what cost.

Journalist David Pugliese from the Ottawa Citizen joins Bettens ...

Mark as Played

This week on APTN News InFocus, host Cierra Bettens takes a closer look at where Indigenous issues stand as federal parties ramp up their campaigns.

The five main political parties have been working the campaign trail since March 23. Threats from the United States and other foreign powers are, so far, dominating the campaign.

But what have candidates been saying about I...

Mark as Played

This week on APTN News InFocus, host Cierra Bettens takes a closer look at policing in Canada and its impact on Indigenous Peoples.

In the final months of 2024, 15 Indigenous people died after interactions with police—some were shot, others beaten to death or run over by cruisers. Their deaths have reignited calls for a national inquiry into systemic racism in policing, the focus of Inside ...

Mark as Played

This week on APTN News InFocus, host Cierra Bettens examines the years-long fight to search the Prairie Green landfill and the delays that kept families waiting.

In December 2022, Cambria Harris stood on Parliament Hill, pleading for a search of the landfill where her mother, Morgan Harris, and others were believed to be. Despite her calls for action, it took two more years for the search t...

Mark as Played

This week on APTN News InFocus, host Cierra Bettens examines the mercury crisis in Grassy Narrows and the community’s ongoing fight for justice and healing.

In the 1960s and '70s, the Dryden paper mill dumped nearly nine tonnes of mercury into the English-Wabigoon River system, devastating the downstream community of Grassy Narrows. Today, an estimated 90 per cent of the community has sympt...

Mark as Played

This week on APTN News InFocus, host Cierra Bettens examines the impact of the looming trade war between Canada and the U.S. and what it means for Indigenous businesses.

As U.S. President Donald Trump plans to move ahead with 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian exports, companies across the country are scrambling to adapt. But for Indigenous businesses, many of which already face barriers, the ...

Mark as Played

In this episode, we’re putting Jordan’s Principle InFocus.

For nearly 20 years the federal government has been running a program called Jordan’s Principle.

The program is supposed to provide First Nations children living on reserve with the same services children living off-reserve could receive.

It’s named after Jordan River Anderson – a boy from N...

Mark as Played

In this episode, host Cierra Bettens explores the efforts to revitalize Indigenous languages across Turtle Island.

February is I Love to Read month, and APTN reporter Tiar Wheatle is leading Mother Tongue Teachings—a new series featuring language speakers sharing a phrase of the day. Tiar joins us to discuss the series, her language journey, and the role of journalists in language revitaliz...

Mark as Played

In this episode, we put the Liberal leadership race InFocus. Five candidates are competing to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, each making promises and presenting their vision for Canada. Several challenges lie ahead, including housing, immigration, foreign relations—and dealing with U.S. President Donald Trump. However, little has been said about issues impacting Indigenous Peoples.

...

Mark as Played

In this episode, we put drug trafficking InFocus. From coast to coast, First Nations are grappling with the impacts of drug trafficking. Outside dealers are preying on vulnerable community members—but many nations are mobilizing to push back.

Award winning APTN Investigates journalist Kenneth Jackson joins us to discuss his report, The Great Change, which shines a light on big-city drug dea...

Mark as Played

In this episode, we put the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge InFocus. Gwich'in leaders like Chief Pauline Frost explain why this sacred land is vital to their people. But corporate interests, backed by politicians, have eyed it for oil and gas drilling. Despite challenges, President Trump’s declaration of a “national energy emergency” keeps his push for drilling alive.

Reporter Sara Connors ...

Mark as Played
January 22, 2025 40 secs

We’re relaunching InFocus! Join APTN News reporter Cierra Bettens each episode as she unpacks key stories impacting Indigenous Peoples through expert interviews and fresh perspectives.

Subscribe now on your favorite podcast player.

Mark as Played

The presence of Indigenous people on film and behind the scenes has been growing throughout the years.

On InFocus we look at those leaving their mark on the big screen.

Mark as Played

From organizing rallies and walks to creating platforms for Indigenous people to speak out – young Indigenous youth are on the move and their actions are put InFocus.

Mark as Played

InFocus takes a look back at the wildfire season, some of the causes of extreme weather events and what can be done to make a positive impact towards the climate crisis.

Mark as Played

InFocus went on location to the second annual Indigenomics SHE conference in Winnipeg and caught up with women who are making their mark in the world of business and finance.

It’s an event for like-minded women to create contacts and educate others on topics that will have a positive impact in the...

Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

    24/7 News: The Latest

    The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.

    Crime Junkie

    Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.

    The Breakfast Club

    The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy And Charlamagne Tha God!

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.