Episode 1

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Published on:

28th Oct 2025

The Words Matters Podcast Episode 1 Canaan Chatman

The Words Matter Podcast – Episode One | Guest: Canaan Chatman

Hosted by Christopher Rivers | Produced by The PAC West Group

Welcome to the premiere of The Words Matter Podcast—a community-centered series uncovering the power of story, history, and lived experience through real conversation.

In this debut episode, host Christopher Rivers sits down with Portland legend and cultural architect Canaan Chatman to reflect on a lifetime in and around the game of basketball. From his Hall of Fame playing career to launching the Rose City Showcase, Canaan shares his journey of influence—shaping athletes, events, and community at every level.

Together, they explore how mentorship, family, faith, and resilience fuel leadership—on the court, in the home, and across generations. This is more than basketball. It’s legacy work.

Topics Include:

• The origin and impact of the Rose City Showcase

• The evolution of grassroots hoops in the Pacific Northwest

• Raising children through adversity and sport

• Mentorship, marriage, and identity off the court

• Canaan’s Top 5–7 most influential players from Oregon


What to Expect from The Words Matter Podcast:

• Honest conversations with athletes, activists, educators & leaders

• Stories of perseverance, purpose, and personal growth

• Insights on legacy, leadership, and giving back to the culture


Why “Words Matter”?

Because words shape perception. Words build movements. Words create legacy. And behind every impact is a story that deserves to be heard.


Subscribe, comment, and listen with purpose.

#WordsMatterPodcastPDX #CanaanChatman #ChristopherRivers #RoseCityShowcase #WordsMatter #ChrisRiversRAPP

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About the Podcast

Words Matter Podcast
For over 25 years, Christopher Rivers has been more than just a voice; he has been a leader, mentor, and trusted presence in the world of sports and leadership. Now, step into The Words Matter Podcast, a space where conversations are honest, reflections are sharp, and the impact is lasting.
Each episode features candid dialogue around leadership, resilience, purpose, and communication with guests who are shaping the culture on and off the court. From locker room wisdom to life-defining breakthroughs, this is where presence meets purpose, and mindset meets movement.

It’s personal. It’s powerful. It’s intentional.

Because when the noise fades and the lights go out, the words remain.

About your host

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joseph Ruiz