POBM: The Psychology of Being Me
A Web Series Exploring the Relationship Between Indigenous Peoples and Canada—From the Inside Out.
he Psychology of Being Me (POBM) is a long-form documentary series that examines the complex and often misunderstood relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canadians.
The journey begins with filmmaker Steven Martin returning to Listuguj, Quebec after 14 years away—choosing to run for Chief as a way to move beyond observation and into lived experience. What unfolds is a rare, insider exploration of community, leadership, identity, and perception.
Through candid interviews with community members, leaders, and voices often unheard, the series challenges stereotypes, questions media narratives, and opens space for honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations.
Inspired in part by a moment with filmmaker Michael Moore in 2002, POBM adopts a bold, question-driven approach—but goes further. By entering the political process itself, the series reaches a level of access and introspection rarely seen in documentary storytelling.
This is not just a series about observation.
It is about participation, accountability, and connection.
At its core, POBM exists to spark dialogue—between communities, between perspectives, and within ourselves.
An Introduction: The Early Influences
A Web Series
Embark on an illuminating journey with "The Psychology of Being Me (POBM)," a captivating web series exclusive to our website and distributed on YouTube. Join Steve, a Native Canadian navigating suburban life, as he returns to Listuguj, Quebec, to run for chief. Delve into the political landscape, challenging stereotypes, scrutinizing media bias, and exploring Canadian perceptions. Through candid interviews with Listuguj community members, the series aims to ignite crucial dialogues between Canadians and Indigenous peoples, unraveling the complexities of their coexistence.
Michael Moore's inspiration
"The seed for 'The Psychology of Being Me (POBM)' was planted during Michael Moore's opening remarks at the 2002 Atlantic Film Festival. Moore praised Canada's social policies but criticized its historical treatment of its Indigenous peoples. His candid thoughts on Indigenous issues intrigued me, a chance interaction with the provocative filmmaker ignited my interest in adopting a Michael Moore documentary approach on Canada's history and its treatment of Native people."
Why Run for Chief?
The decision to run for chief stemmed from my desire to explore an avenue that even Michael Moore could not have ventured. Opting to enter the political arena, I saw the run for chief as an opportunity to delve into the heart of the political system. This strategic move allowed me to leverage the platform, posing challenging questions to my community members and using the political process as a conduit to unravel complex issues within our community. It became a unique means of engagement, an insider's perspective to spark dialogue and address critical questions that often go unasked in conventional settings.