S3E2: Jordin Tootoo — When Someone Believes In You

In this powerful episode of Leading Voices in Education, we are joined by Jordin Tootoo, the first Inuk to play in the NHL. Jordin shares his honest and inspiring story of growing up in Nunavut, overcoming addiction, navigating grief and loss, and finding his path to healing and resilience. He reflects on the teachers, coaches, mentors, and family members who believed in him, the importance of asking for help, and how educators can create spaces where students feel safe to be heard. Jordin also shares his powerful idea of “finding your tundra”—finding the place that helps you slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. A heartfelt conversation about resilience, identity, Indigenous perspectives, mental health, the impact of teachers, and believing in yourself.