THE MORE YOU KNOW, THE LESS YOU NEED, THE LESS YOU NEED - THE MORE YOU CAN FOCUS ON WHAT TRULY MATTERS TO YOU.
Artist, Healer, and Surrogate Mama
STEPH, Shoeless Dave's better half, was born with an artist's eye and passion, and a spiritual thirst mere religion couldn't quench. She is a gifted healer who offers unique perspectives, encouraging words, and practical guidance and support.
From a young age it was clear Steph was destined to create. In high school, while fantasizing about becoming a folk singer, she made clothing for herself and her friends. Fashion and sewing would remain a lifelong passion - she still makes clothes, quilts and other necessities.
In college she was drawn to music, creative expression, and helping (and advocating for) teens and young adults - which she and Shoeless Dave have done ever since.
Since becoming life partners with Dave she has explored many traditional crafts and skills - knitting, canning, soap making, working with hides, and many other skills; as well as more modern arts like cake decorating and tattooing. Finally discovering her greatest joy and healing outlet - PAINTING.
In every community Steph has ever lived she has been known for her warm, loving heart, her hospitality (inspite of being an introvert), and contagious sense of humour.
CONTACT US
dave@exilednomad.com or thehippiemoose@gmail.com
STEPH
Born into a desperate situation Ojiig (Dave) retreated daily into the forest for refuge; it can be said that he was raised by a forest in the Creator's care. For over 40 years Ojiig has been studying and living from his spirit in natural environments; with over 30 years serving those in need.
Barely emerging from a deeply traumatic childhood - it was predicted he would end up fighting addiction, in prison, or dead - but Ojiig had a very powerful spiritual awakening which transformed his entire life. Immediately he began to help his peers, and began his lifetime journey to become a Spiritual Guide and Ancestral Knowledge Keeper.
A traditional Earthskills/Survival and Forest Living expert, Ojiig has been described as a living encyclopedia of forest knowledge and skills. Committed to reversing the nature knowledge deficit of our modern world he is always willing to empower others; regularly teaching in schools, youth programs, camps, churches, etc.
He has a bachelor's degree in spiritual formation, development, and growth - but what sets Ojiig apart is his extensive practical experience and over 30 years of learning from some of the worlds most influential Indigenous Elders, Faith Keepers, and Medicine Keepers/Healers. Unlike most "coaches" Ojiig uses creativity and nature in nearly everything he does; drawing heavily on his traditional indigenous cultures; Anishinaabe & Aarjel Saemieh. Ojiig is also very knowledgeable of Christianity; often described as a bridge builder between opposing worlds.
Ojiig makes his living consulting organizations, teaching professionals, serving as an elder, and doing traditional Indigenous woodland art.
A spiritual altruist to his core, Ojiig has volunteered in some of North America's most remote, suicidal, violent, and financially challenged communities - always seeking an opportunity to help teenagers and young adults.
When not sharing and growing his knowledge and skills, Ojiig can be found making art and sharing meaningful life with his family and friends - usually in the nature.