Native ChocTalk: Recent Episodes
Rachael Youngman
What if you could experience the Choctaw Labor Day Festival without ever leaving your couch?Come walk the grounds with me!Welcome to Part 4 of Native ChocTalk’s Choctaw Labor Day Festival 2025 series!Imagine this…- Drums echoing across the grounds.- Hymns filling the air.- Stickball warriors battling it out.- Buffalo grazing nearby.- Choctaw dancing and beautiful prairie dresses.- Handmade art and crafts everywhere you look.- And enough frybread to make you forget you just ate.In this episode, we’re experiencing the music, food, culture and traditions that make Labor Day so special - including a conversation with Lori Rowton of The Close, the 50th-anniversary celebration of the Tvshka Homma Capitol Museum with the unveiling of three new bronze busts honoring Choctaw leaders, ribbon skirts, kids’ activities, trivia and much more.Yakoke to Weylin Thompson, for sharing his gift of drumming in this episode!Next up: Part 5 - Stories Around the Campfire.Text LABORDAY to 888777 for festival updates.Want to bring The Close to your area? Email: BOOKING@THECLOSEMUSIC.COM. For more info, visit: WWW.THECLOSEMUSIC.COM.Yakoke to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma for partnering with me on this series!
to 888777 and learn more at https://laborday.choctawnation.com/. A huge Yakoke to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma for partnering with me on this special series!Have you ever visited the Choctaw Capitol Museum? Share your favorite memory in the comments!
to 888777 Learn more at: www.laborday.choctawnation.com Yakoke to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma for partnering with me on this series!
In this episode of Native ChocTalk, we continue our Choctaw road trip through the historic Latham area, where Chief Mushulatubbee established his community after the Trail of Tears. Joined by my cousin Cheryl and our gracious host, Jonathan Watson (Choctaw) of The Ranch at Latham, we explore the land where Mushulatubbee once lived, led, and helped rebuild the Choctaw Nation in Indian Territory.Together, we take a closer look at the layout of this historic Choctaw settlement, from the Council House, gristmill, and Trahern's Station to Brazil Creek, Council House Spring, and the cemetery where Mushulatubbee is believed to be buried. We also speculate on why Mushulatubbee chose this location, considering its abundant water, fertile land, and position along an important travel route that even attracted visiting dignitaries to this remote part of Indian Territory.Along the way, we discuss Choctaw social dances, traditional regalia, the importance of agriculture and self-sufficiency, and the remarkable resilience of a people determined to preserve their culture while building a new homeland. We wrap up our day with visits to Skullyville Cemetery and the historic Butterfield Overland Mail route, reflecting on the leaders and ancestors whose legacy continues to shape the Choctaw Nation today.For the full experience, we highly recommend watching this episode on YouTube. Search Native ChocTalk – Choctaw Road Trip Part 6 to follow along with the maps, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes that bring these stories to life.Yakoke for joining us on another journey into Choctaw history!
Welcome to part 5 of this Native ChocTalk series, where my cousin Cheryl and I are taking you deep into Choctaw history as we explore the old stomping grounds of Chief Mushulatubbee in Latham, Oklahoma.In the last episode, I shared about the history of this Choctaw Chief and now with the help of our fellow Choctaw, Jonathan Watson, we walk the land where Mushulatubbee (Cheryl and Jonathan’s ancestor) lived after the Trail of Tears. You’ll see the Council House Spring, the area of Trahern's Cemetery and Station along the Butterfield Overland Mail route, and the place where Choctaw history was made.Along the way, we uncover stories of resilience, leadership, and community, and explore the long-held oral history surrounding the burial site of Chief Mushulatubbee. This is more than a history lesson - it's a journey through the area where the Choctaw Nation rebuilt its future.
Join us in Part 4 of this roadtrip series where my cousin Cheryl and I continue tracing her ancestry to Choctaw Chief Mushulatubbee.Cheryl and I visited The Ranch at Latham in Stigler, Oklahoma, where Chief Mushulatubbee once lived on what is now the lands of Choctaw, Jonathan Watson. I wanted to take a step back and explore the remarkable life and history of Mushulatubbee one of Choctaw Nation's most influential leaders - from his rise as a respected warrior and chief to the difficult choices surrounding removal, the Trail of Tears, and his leadership in Indian Territory.Join us as we uncover the history, the complexities, and the enduring legacy of Chief Mushulatubbee... and the mystery surrounding his final resting place.Yakoke for following along as our journey through Choctaw history continues!Also, I’d like to give a shout out to the excellent research of Greg O'Brien, Ph.D., professor of history at the University of North Carolina Greensboro as you’ll hear quotes from his work throughout this episode.
Join us for Part 3 of our Choctaw heritage road trip as my cousin Cheryl and I continue tracing her ancestry to Choctaw Chief Mushulatubbee. This episode takes us to The Ranch at Latham in Shady Point, Oklahoma, where Choctaw, Jonathan Watson shares the history of his family's land property that was once home to the great Choctaw Chief Mushulatubbee.While this land is rich with Choctaw history, it's also one of eastern Oklahoma's most unforgettable event destinations. Nestled near the beautiful Kiamichi Mountains, you'll get a glimpse of why The Ranch at Latham has become such a sought-after venue for weddings and special events. Blending western charm, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Oklahoma hospitality, it's truly a place where history and celebration come together.And of course, since it's owned by one of my fellow Choctaws, I have to give it a shoutout - be sure to check it out at https://www.ranchatlatham.com!In this episode, you'll get a firsthand look at Jonathan's family property, including historic Choctaw and Civil War-era gravesites that remain on the land today, along with a sneak peek at Chief Mushulatubbee's old stomping grounds. It's an incredible opportunity to stand where history happened and experience the stories that continue to live on through the land itself.Be sure to join us for Part 4, where we explore even more of the places, history, and enduring legacy of Cheryl's ancestor, Choctaw Chief Mushulatubbee.
“Indian Makes An Attempt to Kill.”That was the newspaper headline about my great-great uncle, Cicero - a story I’ve shared many times. But on one retelling, something unexpected happened. The story didn’t just revisit the past - it opened the door to an entirely new world of family connections I never knew existed.In Part 2, we weave together Cicero’s story with my own and how, somehow, his history guided me straight to my cousin, Cheryl Stone Pitchford, and a whole new branch of our family tree. Recorded 2 years ago, in this series, Cheryl and I are on an Okie roadtrip and on a mission to visit her ancestor, Mushulatubbee’s old stomping grounds, while tracing our own family roots across Choctaw Country along the way. What you’ll hear in this series is a heartfelt blend of history, humor and remembrance - a hodgepodge of adventures in the very best way.Next up, we’ll head to Shady Point to visit the breathtaking Ranch at Latham, owned by Choctaw, Jonathan Watson to see the land where Chief Mushulatubee lived.In this episode, I proudly sport my lovely earrings, perfectly crafted by Jennifer Ikelman (Registered Tribal Artist of the Choctaw Nation) of Acorn and Oak Crafts. https://www.etsy.com/shop/AcornAndOakCrafts?ref=shop_sugg This series is one I hope you’ll watch on YouTube to see the photos and visuals along the way. Yakoke! #cherystonepitchford #theranchatlatham #choctawnationofoklahoma #nativechoctalkpodcast #nativechoctalk #rachaelellenyoungman #rachaelyoungman #Choctaw #chahta #nativeamerican #AmericanIndian #nativepodcast
Veterans Day holds a special place in this episode, I visited with Choctaw Nation’s Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr., a man whose life has been shaped by service, family legacy, and an unwavering devotion to the Choctaw people.From his small-town Oklahoma upbringing in Talihina, where the soda fountain was a gathering place, and family values were taught in everyday moments, Jack shares what it was like to be raised by his father, the late Jack Austin Sr., and guided by a grandfather who led not through speeches, but through steady action.Jack opens his story wider, reflecting on why he serves his country, his Choctaw Nation, and his community. We trace the legacies passed down through generations, including his own Choctaw ancestor who fought in the Battle of New Orleans, long before citizenship was extended to Native people. Jack unpacks the significance of that battle, the irony woven through history, and how those ancestors still stand with us today.He also speaks candidly about his years in the U.S. Army: the brotherhood, the lifelong friends, the moments that shaped him, transitioning out of military life, and the continued mission he carries through his work with the Choctaw Veterans’ Advocacy program.Jack reflects on the prayer that guides him as he serves the Choctaw people, the educational journey he and his wife traveled together on the way to their bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and the profound turning point in his life when his mother passed away. He honors her legacy of caring for those in need within the Tribe and shares the story of the woman who stepped in as a mother to lift him up during that difficult chapter.Packed with history, humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom, this episode shines a light on what it truly means to lead and to serve with a Choctaw heart.On this Veterans day, yakoke to all who have served, and to the families who stand beside them!
Veterans Day holds a special place in this episode, I visited with Choctaw Nation’s Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr., a man whose life has been shaped by service, family legacy, and an unwavering devotion to the Choctaw people.From his small-town Oklahoma upbringing in Talihina, where the soda fountain was a gathering place, and family values were taught in everyday moments, Jack shares what it was like to be raised by his father, the late Jack Austin Sr., and guided by a grandfather who led not through speeches, but through steady action.Jack opens his story wider, reflecting on why he serves his country, his Choctaw Nation, and his community. We trace the legacies passed down through generations, including his own Choctaw ancestor who fought in the Battle of New Orleans, long before citizenship was extended to Native people. Jack unpacks the significance of that battle, the irony woven through history, and how those ancestors still stand with us today.He also speaks candidly about his years in the U.S. Army: the brotherhood, the lifelong friends, the moments that shaped him, transitioning out of military life, and the continued mission he carries through his work with the Choctaw Veterans’ Advocacy program.Jack reflects on the prayer that guides him as he serves the Choctaw people, the educational journey he and his wife traveled together on the way to their bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and the profound turning point in his life when his mother passed away. He honors her legacy of caring for those in need within the Tribe and shares the story of the woman who stepped in as a mother to lift him up during that difficult chapter.Packed with history, humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom, this episode shines a light on what it truly means to lead and to serve with a Choctaw heart.On this Veterans day, yakoke to all who have served, and to the families who stand beside them!
PART 3From opening her own law firm in Durant to protecting Native art and culture, attorney Chloe Moyer joins Native ChocTalk to unpack:✨ Federal Indian law & tribal sovereignty✨ Protecting public arts & the Indian Arts and Crafts Act✨ The balance of communal vs. individual ownership✨ NAGPRA, NHPA, & protecting what’s been taken✨ Tips for Native artists selling online (contracts, trademarks, copyrights)PLUS:– Tribal IDs and membership rules– Adoption possibilities for Choctaw families– McGirt v. Oklahoma & Castro-Huerta– Starting your own Native-owned business📌 Learn more at: moyerlawpllc.comNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
From opening her own law firm in Durant to protecting Native art and culture, attorney Chloe Moyer joins Native ChocTalk to unpack:✨ Federal Indian law & tribal sovereignty✨ Protecting public arts & the Indian Arts and Crafts Act✨ The balance of communal vs. individual ownership✨ NAGPRA, NHPA, & protecting what’s been taken✨ Tips for Native artists selling online (contracts, trademarks, copyrights)PLUS:– Tribal IDs and membership rules– Adoption possibilities for Choctaw families– McGirt v. Oklahoma & Castro-Huerta– Starting your own Native-owned business📌 Learn more at: moyerlawpllc.comNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
From opening her own law firm in Durant to protecting Native art and culture, attorney Chloe Moyer joins Native ChocTalk to unpack:✨ Federal Indian law & tribal sovereignty✨ Protecting public arts & the Indian Arts and Crafts Act✨ The balance of communal vs. individual ownership✨ NAGPRA, NHPA, & protecting what’s been taken✨ Tips for Native artists selling online (contracts, trademarks, copyrights)PLUS:– Tribal IDs and membership rules– Adoption possibilities for Choctaw families– McGirt v. Oklahoma & Castro-Huerta– Starting your own Native-owned business📌 Learn more at: moyerlawpllc.comNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 3In this episode, my guests, Amy, Ian and Mike take you deep into the heart of Choctaw tradition, food, and the sacred relationship with the hunt.You’ll learn about:- Life at Nan Awaya Farm (where yvnvsh (buffalo) and food are grown the Choctaw way- Ancient Choctaw hunting - the reverence for animals & wisdom from elders- Do buffalo will actually charge through 10k volts of electric fence?- What it’s really like to care for buffalo every day- The surprising stealth (and jumping skills!) of buffalo- The second edition of Ian Thompson’s Choctaw Food book (launching soon!)- Crafting traditional bows, arrows, and quivers- Stories from the hunt - how our ancestors approached deer with such skill and respect This episode is full of stories, surprises, and teachings that connect past and present. Don’t miss it!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 2In this episode, my guests, Amy, Ian and Mike take you deep into the heart of Choctaw tradition, food, and the sacred relationship with the hunt. You’ll learn about:🌱 Life at Nan Awaya Farm where yvnvsh (buffalo) and food are grown in the Choctaw tradition🪶 Ancient Choctaw hunting - the reverence for animals & wisdom from elders ⚡ Do buffalo will actually charge through 10k volts of electric fence?🦬 What it’s really like to care for buffalo every day🤫 The surprising stealth (and jumping skills!) of buffalo 📖 The second edition of Ian Thompson’s Choctaw Food book (launching soon!)🏹 Crafting traditional bows, arrows, and quivers🦌 Stories from the hunt - how our ancestors approached deer with such skill and respectThis episode is full of stories, surprises, and teachings that connect past and present. Don’t miss it!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 1In this episode, my guests, Amy, Ian and Mike take you deep into the heart of Choctaw tradition, food, and the sacred relationship with the hunt.You’ll learn about:- Life at Nan Awaya Farm (where yvnvsh (buffalo) and food are grown the Choctaw way- Ancient Choctaw hunting - the reverence for animals & wisdom from elders- Do buffalo will actually charge through 10k volts of electric fence?- What it’s really like to care for buffalo every day- The surprising stealth (and jumping skills!) of buffalo- The second edition of Ian Thompson’s Choctaw Food book (launching soon!)- Crafting traditional bows, arrows, and quivers- Stories from the hunt - how our ancestors approached deer with such skill and respect This episode is full of stories, surprises, and teachings that connect past and present. Don’t miss it!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 2On this episode of Native ChocTalk, my cousin, Cheryl and I took a road trip into the heart of Choctaw country to explore the fascinating and little-known history of Tamaha, Oklahoma - a town with stories that are anything but small.As we meandered along banks of the Arkansas River, we met a local gentleman walking his dogs. That chance encounter led me to Tonia Brannan - an unofficial town historian with a deep connection to the land, the stories, and the Choctaw history embedded in the soil who shares it all with me today.From early ferry landings of the Choctaw trading points following Removal, to a Civil War steamboat raid led by Confederate Cherokee General Stand Watie, to the very first prisoner of the Tamaha jail, and even the scrappy boxing legend Wild Wilson Dunn, a Choctaw man who claimed to be Osage and once fought Jethro’s dad from the show, The Beverly Hillbillies - Tamaha has seen it all! (By the way - know any Choctaws with the last name Dunn? Let me know!)Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 1On this episode of Native ChocTalk, my cousin, Cheryl and I took a road trip into the heart of Choctaw country to explore the fascinating and little-known history of Tamaha, Oklahoma - a town with stories that are anything but small.As we meandered along banks of the Arkansas River, we met a local gentleman walking his dogs. That chance encounter led me to Tonia Brannan - an unofficial town historian with a deep connection to the land, the stories, and the Choctaw history embedded in the soil who shares it all with me today.From early ferry landings of the Choctaw trading points following Removal, to a Civil War steamboat raid led by Confederate Cherokee General Stand Watie, to the very first prisoner of the Tamaha jail, and even the scrappy boxing legend Wild Wilson Dunn, a Choctaw man who claimed to be Osage and once fought Jethro’s dad from the show, The Beverly Hillbillies - Tamaha has seen it all! (By the way - know any Choctaws with the last name Dunn? Let me know!)Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 3Join me in this 3-part series as LaNora Parker, great-granddaughter of legendary Comanche leader Quanah Parker, shares her story of leadership, survival, and healing.LaNora was one of the first women to serve as Vice Chairman and Interim Chairwoman of the Comanche Nation. She reflects on her family’s powerful legacy—her father, Simmons Parker, was a Comanche Code Talker and WWII hero—and how that shaped her path.She opens up about the painful realities of Native boarding schools, the loneliness, and cultural erasure she experienced, and how Comanche language and hymns remained a source of strength.Now, as a voice for Native recovery, LaNora shares her personal healing journey and her mission to support sobriety through culture and purpose! Along with her niece, she co-founded Warchief Collection, a non-alcoholic beverage line rooted in Native wellness and resilience. Learn more at warchiefcollection.comHer words of encouragement for all who are in recovery? “Pray about it. Cry about it. Read about it. Write about it. Talk about it. Be about it.”Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Join me in this 3-part series as LaNora Parker, great-granddaughter of legendary Comanche leader Quanah Parker, shares her story of leadership, survival, and healing.LaNora was one of the first women to serve as Vice Chairman and Interim Chairwoman of the Comanche Nation. She reflects on her family’s powerful legacy—her father, Simmons Parker, was a Comanche Code Talker and WWII hero—and how that shaped her path.She opens up about the painful realities of Native boarding schools, the loneliness, and cultural erasure she experienced, and how Comanche language and hymns remained a source of strength.Now, as a voice for Native recovery, LaNora shares her personal healing journey and her mission to support sobriety through culture and purpose! Along with her niece, she co-founded Warchief Collection, a non-alcoholic beverage line rooted in Native wellness and resilience. Learn more at warchiefcollection.comHer words of encouragement for all who are in recovery? “Pray about it. Cry about it. Read about it. Write about it. Talk about it. Be about it.”Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 1Join me in this 3-part series as LaNora Parker, great-granddaughter of legendary Comanche leader Quanah Parker, shares her story of leadership, survival, and healing.LaNora was one of the first women to serve as Vice Chairman and Interim Chairwoman of the Comanche Nation. She reflects on her family’s powerful legacy—her father, Simmons Parker, was a Comanche Code Talker and WWII hero—and how that shaped her path.She opens up about the painful realities of Native boarding schools, the loneliness, and cultural erasure she experienced, and how Comanche language and hymns remained a source of strength.Now, as a voice for Native recovery, LaNora shares her personal healing journey and her mission to support sobriety through culture and purpose! Along with her niece, she co-founded Warchief Collection, a non-alcoholic beverage line rooted in Native wellness and resilience. Learn more at warchiefcollection.comHer words of encouragement for all who are in recovery? “Pray about it. Cry about it. Read about it. Write about it. Talk about it. Be about it.”Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 3In this powerful 3-part episode, we dive into the tragic legacy of the Wounded Knee Massacre and its connection to the ongoing fight for Native American religious freedom. My guest, law Professor, Richard Garnett - a Choctaw citizen and expert in religious freedom at Notre Dame - helps unpack what the law actually says about Native religious rights, sacred land use, and the balance between tribal sovereignty and U.S. legal systems. From the Ghost Dance to peyote use in the Native American Church, and from religious Acts and the Constitution, we explore how Native faith practices have been criminalized, protected, and misunderstood throughout U.S. history.We also discuss the painful irony that Native communities often need specific legislation just to practice their traditions, unlike many other faiths in America. Professor Garnett shares why religious freedom isn't just about individual rights - it's also about land, language, and the deep communal connection to sacred spaces. If you’ve ever wondered how law students and Professors at places like Notre Dame are shaping the future or how land rights like those at Oak Flat and beyond are tied to religious liberty, this episode is for you.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 2In this powerful 3-part episode, we dive into the tragic legacy of the Wounded Knee Massacre and its connection to the ongoing fight for Native American religious freedom. My guest, law Professor, Richard Garnett - a Choctaw citizen and expert in religious freedom at Notre Dame - helps unpack what the law actually says about Native religious rights, sacred land use, and the balance between tribal sovereignty and U.S. legal systems. From the Ghost Dance to peyote use in the Native American Church, and from religious Acts and the Constitution, we explore how Native faith practices have been criminalized, protected, and misunderstood throughout U.S. history.We also discuss the painful irony that Native communities often need specific legislation just to practice their traditions, unlike many other faiths in America. Professor Garnett shares why religious freedom isn't just about individual rights - it's also about land, language, and the deep communal connection to sacred spaces. If you’ve ever wondered how law students and Professors at places like Notre Dame are shaping the future or how land rights like those at Oak Flat and beyond are tied to religious liberty, this episode is for you.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In this powerful 3-part episode, we dive into the tragic legacy of the Wounded Knee Massacre and its connection to the ongoing fight for Native American religious freedom. My guest, law Professor, Richard Garnett - a Choctaw citizen and expert in religious freedom at Notre Dame - helps unpack what the law actually says about Native religious rights, sacred land use, and the balance between tribal sovereignty and U.S. legal systems. From the Ghost Dance to peyote use in the Native American Church, and from religious Acts and the Constitution, we explore how Native faith practices have been criminalized, protected, and misunderstood throughout U.S. history.We also discuss the painful irony that Native communities often need specific legislation just to practice their traditions, unlike many other faiths in America. Professor Garnett shares why religious freedom isn't just about individual rights - it's also about land, language, and the deep communal connection to sacred spaces. If you’ve ever wondered how law students and Professors at places like Notre Dame are shaping the future or how land rights like those at Oak Flat and beyond are tied to religious liberty, this episode is for you.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 3In this new season of Native ChocTalk, I sat down with Tiffany Baker, the heart and hands behind Bakers Bar Soapery!Tiffany shares her powerful journey of tracing her Choctaw ancestors — all connected by one common thread: the land. From uncovering family allotments and the deep sentiment of holding onto family land, to the tangled stories of district agents, guardianship scams, and the feisty squabbles between Choctaw mammas — with a bit of Tamaha, Oklahoma town gossip sprinkled in too!Tune in to hear how Tiffany weaves her family’s past into her modern-day business, creating soaps that carry the love, land, and legacy of her people — and maybe a bit of Tamaha mischief too. Listen now and get inspired by the strength that runs through the land — and the families who keep it alive. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 2In this new season of Native ChocTalk, I sat down with Tiffany Baker, the heart and hands behind Bakers Bar SoaperyTiffany shares her powerful journey of tracing her Choctaw ancestors — all connected by one common thread: the land. From uncovering family allotments and the deep sentiment of holding onto family land, to the tangled stories of district agents, guardianship scams, and the feisty squabbles between Choctaw mammas — with a bit of Tamaha, Oklahoma town gossip sprinkled in too!Tune in to hear how Tiffany weaves her family’s past into her modern-day business, creating soaps that carry the love, land, and legacy of her people — and maybe a bit of Tamaha mischief too. Listen now and get inspired by the strength that runs through the land — and the families who keep it alive.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 1In this new season of Native ChocTalk, I sat down with Tiffany Baker, the heart and hands behind Bakers Bar Soapery!Tiffany shares her powerful journey of tracing her Choctaw ancestors — all connected by one common thread: the land. From uncovering family allotments and the deep sentiment of holding onto family land, to the tangled stories of district agents, guardianship scams, and the feisty squabbles between Choctaw mammas — with a bit of Tamaha, Oklahoma town gossip sprinkled in too!Tune in to hear how Tiffany weaves her family’s past into her modern-day business, creating soaps that carry the love, land, and legacy of her people — and maybe a bit of Tamaha mischief too. Listen now and get inspired by the strength that runs through the land — and the families who keep it alive.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
It started with a murder...but what followed was silence. And for one Choctaw family, that silence lasted for generations.In this gripping two-part series, we dive into a mystery that stretches across time - a broken bloodline, a forgotten story, and the journey to uncover the truth. It begins with the unsolved killing of Adam Wilkins, who served as a Choctaw Indian Police and interpreter — and the great-grandfather of my guest, Amy Lemmer.Still, as we’ve seen in true Choctaw fashion, this isn’t just a story about loss - it’s about legacy. Because Amy’s family didn’t let that tragedy define them.In the previous series, her father, Woodrow Wilkins, Jr., gave us a window into a nearly 100-year life — telling stories of his childhood, his first picture show, his service in the military, and the deep cultural threads that tie their family to Choctaw history.Now, Amy steps in to pick up where the silence began - and perhaps, where healing begins, too.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
It started with a murder...but what followed was silence. And for one Choctaw family, that silence lasted for generations.In this gripping two-part series, we dive into a mystery that stretches across time - a broken bloodline, a forgotten story, and the journey to uncover the truth. It begins with the unsolved killing of Adam Wilkins, who served as a Choctaw Indian Police and interpreter — and the great-grandfather of my guest, Amy Lemmer.Still, as we’ve seen in true Choctaw fashion, this isn’t just a story about loss - it’s about legacy. Because Amy’s family didn’t let that tragedy define them.In the previous series, her father, Woodrow Wilkins, Jr., gave us a window into a nearly 100-year life — telling stories of his childhood, his first picture show, his service in the military, and the deep cultural threads that tie their family to Choctaw history.Now, Amy steps in to pick up where the silence began - and perhaps, where healing begins, too.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 3This May, as we celebrate Choctaw veterans, I’m proud to feature Woodrow Wilkins on Native ChocTalk — a proud Choctaw veteran whose life is a blend of service, culture, and resilience. From stories of military service to memories of wagon days, wild onion dinners, Choctaw hymns, flower sack dresses, and watching his first picture show, Woodrow brings the old days to life with heart and humor.But why was Woodrow “kept hidden”? We dig into the surprising backstory behind his journey.This series is a tribute to all our veterans and the beautiful culture they defend.Don’t miss this powerful conversation that weaves together story telling, legacy, laughter, and love for our people.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 2This May, as we celebrate Choctaw veterans, I’m proud to feature Woodrow Wilkins on Native ChocTalk — a proud Choctaw veteran whose life is a blend of service, culture, and resilience. From stories of military service to memories of wagon days, wild onion dinners, Choctaw hymns, flower sack dresses, and watching his first picture show, Woodrow brings the old days to life with heart and humor.But why was Woodrow “kept hidden”? We dig into the surprising backstory behind his journey.This series is a tribute to all our veterans and the beautiful culture they defend.Don’t miss this powerful conversation that weaves together story telling, legacy, laughter, and love for our people.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
This May, as we celebrate Choctaw veterans, I’m proud to feature Woodrow Wilkins on Native ChocTalk — a proud Choctaw veteran whose life is a blend of service, culture, and resilience. From stories of military service to memories of wagon days, wild onion dinners, Choctaw hymns, flower sack dresses, and watching his first picture show, Woodrow brings the old days to life with heart and humor.But why was Woodrow “kept hidden”? We dig into the surprising backstory behind his journey.This series is a tribute to all our veterans and the beautiful culture they defend.Don’t miss this powerful conversation that weaves together story telling, legacy, laughter, and love for our people.
This month, for Memorial Day and Military Appreciation Month, we honor our Native American veterans.Did you know our Native people serve at the highest rate per capita of any group in the U.S.?Yet, Native veterans also face some of the highest suicide rates, often twice the national average. Factors like historical trauma, limited access to culturally relevant care, and the lingering effects of service contribute to this crisis. For younger Native male veterans, the risk is especially high, making culturally rooted, community-based support critical. Programs that reconnect veterans to nature, culture, and tradition are helping restore hope.I sat down with Choctaw veteran Teyler Williston, who continues his family’s legacy of service through his work in Native veteran mental health. His story spans generations—from his Choctaw Lighthorseman Grandpa to Teyler’s Air Force Firefighting and his role in the Choctaw Honor Guard.If you’re a Native Veteran looking for support, please see the following information: https://www.choctawnation.com/services/warrior-wellness/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
This month, for Memorial Day and Military Appreciation Month, we honor our Native American veterans.Did you know our Native people serve at the highest rate per capita of any group in the U.S.?Yet, Native veterans also face some of the highest suicide rates, often twice the national average. Factors like historical trauma, limited access to culturally relevant care, and the lingering effects of service contribute to this crisis. For younger Native male veterans, the risk is especially high, making culturally rooted, community-based support critical. Programs that reconnect veterans to nature, culture, and tradition are helping restore hope.I sat down with Choctaw veteran Teyler Williston, who continues his family’s legacy of service through his work in Native veteran mental health. His story spans generations—from his Choctaw Lighthorseman Grandpa to Teyler’s Air Force Firefighting and his role in the Choctaw Honor Guard.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 6 In Honor of Memorial Day: This series is dedicated to our Native American veterans—our warriors—who have served with honor, courage, and an unshakable commitment to protect this land and its people.With Father’s Day around the corner: We also honor our fathers and our future warriors - our young men.Long before Choctaws were farmers and business people, they were WARRIORS. Here to talk about this subject is Choctaw Nation's Historic Preservation Department's Ryan Spring.As We Conclude This Series, We Explore:- Preparing for Battle—Then and Now: What traditional preparation looked like, and how its principles still apply today.- A Message to Our Young Choctaw Men: A call to strength, purpose, and pride rooted in identity.- What It Truly Means to Be Choctaw: Embracing servant leadership, cultural pride, and responsibility to community.- The Modern Warrior: Is there still a place for the warrior spirit in today’s world—and how do we carry it forward?- From Warriors to Farmers: The great societal shift: how Choctaw men adapted from warriors to builders of community, and what that transformation means for us now.Our warrior spirit didn’t end in the 1800s. It didn’t stay buried in old stories or museum displays. It lives on—in the hearts of our Choctaw veterans who’ve served our country. When we honor our veterans, we’re not just thanking them for their service—we’re recognizing a legacy. Yakoke, to all who have served!
PART 5In Honor of Memorial Day: This series is dedicated to our Native American veterans—our warriors—who have served with honor, courage, and an unshakable commitment to protect this land and its people.With Father’s Day around the corner: We also honor our fathers and our future warriors - our young men.Long before Choctaws were farmers and business people, they were WARRIORS. Here to talk about this subject is Choctaw Nation's Historic Preservation Department's Ryan Spring.In this episode you'll learn about untold Choctaw warrior legends: A Choctaw warrior on foot who outwitted and outran twelve Muscogee horsemen• The incredible tale of a Choctaw warrior who fell through a ceiling into a room full of sleeping enemies• Nearly forgotten details of Choctaw valor at the Battle of New Orleans• The heroic story of 65 Choctaw warriors who helped turn the tide of the War of 1812These are the stories you’ve probably never heard—until now.
In Honor of Memorial Day: This series is dedicated to our Native American veterans—our warriors—who have served with honor, courage, and an unshakable commitment to protect this land and its people.With Father’s Day around the corner: We also honor our fathers and our future warriors - our young men.Long before Choctaws were farmers and business people, they were WARRIORS. Here to talk about this subject is Choctaw Nation's Historic Preservation Department's Ryan Spring.In this episode you'll learn about warriors and the changing world:- The Battle of Caddo Hills- The Battle of Fort Rosalie (the “other side” of the story)- The story of mischievous Choctaws who brought chaos to a fort- The cultural shift from war to trade- How the influx of alcohol destabilized Choctaw communities and led to the rise of the Lighthorsemen.- As traditional roles faded, how did Choctaw men adapt- The modern warrior's path: finding today’s inner warrior- Reclaiming identity and strength through community leadership and ancestral connection
PART 3In Honor of Memorial Day: This series is dedicated to our Native American veterans—our warriors—who have served with honor, courage, and an unshakable commitment to protect this land and its people.With Father’s Day around the corner: We also honor our fathers and our future warriors - our young men.Long before Choctaws were farmers and business people, they were WARRIORS. Here to talk about this subject is Choctaw Nation's Historic Preservation Department's Ryan Spring.In this episode you'll learn about:- The role of boys and young men in Choctaw life- The strength of our matriarchal society- What Choctaw people ate — in hunting season and at home- Coordinated strength: how Choctaws hunted and fought as one- Teaching the hunt: how boys learned the ways of the woods- Storytelling: passing down wisdom to the next generation- Balance and respect: the equality of men and women in Choctaw society- Becoming a warrior: proving bravery, skill, and endurance- Returning from battle: the 30-day period of reflection and healing- Mourning those lost — even enemies- Did Choctaw warriors practice scalping? The truth behind the stories- Legendary battles of the Choctaw — told in a way you’ve never heard
Part 2In Honor of Memorial Day: This series is dedicated to our Native American veterans—our warriors—who have served with honor, courage, and an unshakable commitment to protect this land and its people.With Father’s Day around the corner: We also honor our fathers and our future warriors - our young men.Long before Choctaws were farmers and business people, they were WARRIORS. Here to talk about this subject is Choctaw Nation's Historic Preservation Department's Ryan Spring.In this episode you’ll hear stories of strength: The Choctaw and the Path of the Warrior- The role of the bison: a short look at its presence in Choctaw homelands- Were bison native to our lands — and how did we interact with them?- What did it take to become a Chief?- Preparing for battle: war paint, feathers, and red dye- The meaning behind warrior tattoos — marks of honor and identity- Allies and enemies: tribes we stood with and those we stood against- The Choctaw and Chickasaw conflict — why did two sister nations clash?
In Honor of Memorial Day:This series is dedicated to our Native American veterans—our warriors—who have served with honor, courage, and an unshakable commitment to protect this land and its people.With Father’s Day around the corner:We also honor our fathers—thank you for your strength, guidance, and love.To our young men. You are the future. We hope you’ll tune in and remember:- You are important.- You are needed.- Your life matters.Long before Choctaws were farmers and business people, they were WARRIORS. Here to talk about this subject is Choctaw Nation's Historic Preservation Department’s Ryan Spring.In Part 1 you’ll learn about The Choctaw Warrior Society- What it took to become a Tvshka — a warrior- The enduring wisdom of our traditional ways for future generations- Weapons of our ancestors: tools of survival and skill- Evidence our ancestors once brought down mammoths- Yes — the Choctaw hunted buffalo
In this final episode of my conversations with the great grandchildren of the heroic Comanche leader, Quanah Parker, we open with a moving moment: Sandra, great-granddaughter of Quanah Parker, reads a heartfelt letter from her father, Baldwin Parker, Jr. — a message of strength, legacy, and deep-rooted pride.Did you know that Quanah Parker was not only a fierce Comanche leader but also a savvy businessman? He was one of the largest shareholders in the Quanah, Acme, and Pacific Railway (QA&P), a 117-mile freight line that began service in 1902 and later merged with Burlington Northern Railroad in 1981. (@cyndidonovan) Tune in to hear how his descendants carry forward that pride in their family’s unexpected but powerful place in rail history.We also explore the pivotal moment of Quanah’s surrender — a decision that weighed heavily on him as he navigated the impossible balance between protecting his people and adapting to a changing world.We close with a heartfelt toast to Quanah’s enduring legacy, brought to you by War Chief Collection, a line of non-alcoholic beverages crafted by his descendant, Jody Colbert. The collection will relaunch in Summer 2025 — stay tuned at www.warchiefcollection.com!Marʉawe to these Comanche elders who generously shared their stories and wisdom, now preserved for generations to come. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In part 6 of this series, you’ll continue the Journey into the life, legend, and legacy of Quanah Parker — last chief of the Comanche, warrior, spiritual leader, and protector of Native tradition. You’ll learn from his descendants about:- The powerful story of Quanah’s fight to preserve the sacred use of peyote through the Native American Church, and his pivotal role in protecting Indigenous religious rights. Family stories and accounts from these elders that you won’t find in the history books.Don Parker singing the “Quanah Parker Song”. - We uncover the man behind the myth — a misunderstood figure whose acts of generosity still echo today. - Learn the story of how a medicine man helped the Comanches escape U.S. forces, collaborated by the “other side” of the story within the history books.- The untold stories of Quanah’s home, the “Star House”. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In Part 5 of Native ChocTalk’s powerful series on the legendary Comanche warrior Quanah Parker, his descendants share intimate stories about his mother, Cynthia Ann Parker—known to the Comanche as Na'ura (1827–March 1871).Taken captive at just 9 years old during the Fort Parker Massacre of 1836, Cynthia Ann was raised by the Comanche people, eventually marrying Chief Peta Nocona (also known as Puhtocnocony and Tah-con-ne-ah-pe-ah, c. 1820–1864). Together, they had three children, including Quanah Parker, who would go on to become the last war chief of the Comanche.This episode explores Cynthia Ann’s heartbreaking journey—from her deep love for her Comanche family to the grief she endured after being forcibly returned to the white world, separated forever from her son and tribe. You’ll hear the haunting lullaby “Where is My Boy Tonight,” a song she sang for years in mourning—and you’ll experience its emotional power as Don Parker, Quanah’s great-grandson, performs it in Comanche.Also in this episode:- The sacred Comanche traditions surrounding death and the journey after life- Reflections on faith and identity: Did the Creator know us? Did He walk with our people and provide for us in the ways we lived and survived?Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 4“Don’t let go of one foot in one place and one foot in the other. Don’t ever forget who you are. You are Comanche, you are Indian. You are a Parker.” - Jacquetta Parker, proud great-granddaughter of the legendary Comanche warrior Quanah Parker, sharing his timeless wisdom and guiding his descendants as they navigate the complexities of two very different worlds.In Part 4 of this series, where I visited with the descendants of Quanah Parker, we explored a more personal side of the legendary Comanche leader—Quanah as a father, husband, and historical inspiration. Our conversation uncovered fascinating stories, including:- Despite his reputation as a fierce and respected warrior, Quanah had a deep compassion for orphans and those in need.- The time President Roosevelt visited his home.- The treasured china passed down to one of his great-granddaughters.- Insights into Quanah’s many wives.- The remarkable story of how Quanah and the Mennonites envisioned and built Post Oak Mission.- How both Comanche and English were sung and preached in the church.- The role of frybread sales in rebuilding Post Oak Mission.- The secret to making the perfect frybread—at least, according to these particular Comanches.- Clumpy or soft frybread? You decide. (I say we settle this with a bake-off!)Join me as we uncover these incredible stories, bringing Quanah’s legacy to life through the voices of his descendants.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 3They were the Comanche, or Numunuh—meaning "The People"— and they were the undisputed "Lords of the Plains," fiercely guarding their vast homeland across Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico. Masters of horseback warfare, they resisted westward expansion as the U.S. government pushed settlers into their territory.In an 1836 raid on Fort Parker, nine-year-old Cynthia Ann Parker was taken captive. She embraced Comanche life, later marrying Chief Peta Nocona. And their son, Quanah Parker, became a legendary leader. As the U.S. broke the Treaty of Medicine Lodge, Quanah led his people in the Red River War, the last major conflict between the southern Plains tribes and the U.S. military. Realizing continued resistance meant destruction, he surrendered at Fort Sill in 1875 to secure his people's survival.Straddling two worlds, Quanah worked to bridge the divide between Native and white societies. Though never elected chief, he was appointed the Comanche Nation’s Principal Chief. To his family, he was a beloved grandfather who championed education and Comanche traditions. To history, he remains the "Last Chief of the Comanche."In parts 1 and 2 of this series, I spoke with one of Quanah Parker's descendants, Jody Parker. Now in part 3, you'll hear directly from Quanah’s great grandchildren:Jacquetta ParkerArdith Parker-LemingLaNora ParkerSandra ChesnutDon Allen Parker Jody ColbertThe family shares insights on:- Quanah's influence on the importance of education and always showing up dressed to impress- His vision for a school and church for his people- What Quanah was like as a master horseman and a great warrior- The significance of Comanche oral history and that much of their knowledge came from both their elders and the Mennonite missionaries Quanah worked with- Did Quanah really tell a missionary she was "ugly"? You may be surprised by the answer!Finally, the elders share a heartfelt reflection on how Quanah bridged two worlds—the world of his people and of those who had taken over.Unfortunately, when I recorded this 2 years ago, my sound and video were messed up. So thank you for your patience, as it has been cleaned up as best as possible.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
According to the American Addiction Centers:"The rate of alcohol use among Native Americans is significantly higher than in other ethnic groups. The rate of Native Americans with an alcohol use disorder is higher than that of the total population. And one in ten young Native Americans (ages 18–25) has an alcohol use disorder.”What if there were a Native-owned, alcohol-free alternative that not only tasted amazing but was actually good for you?Could this help our Native communities — and others — who are struggling with substance abuse? And what about those who simply enjoy the taste of wine or beer, but are looking to make a healthier lifestyle change?Enter Jody Colbert — entrepreneur, founder and president of War Chief Collection, and proud descendant of the great Comanche warrior Quanah Parker.In this episode, you’ll learn about Jody’s line of non-alcoholic beverages, her personal journey to sobriety, and her deep connection to Quanah Parker. In future episodes, you’ll meet her aunties and uncle and hear even more stories about this iconic figure in Native history.A couple of important notes:- Since this episode was recorded two years ago, some exciting things are on the horizon: Jody will be relaunching War Chief Collection with new products in Summer 2025.- In this episode, Jody speaks of her greatest hero: her father, Sgt. Robert Colbert (Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Creek), a Purple Heart recipient and Marine veteran of the Vietnam War, and a proud member of the Chickasaw Warrior Society. Sgt. Colbert sadly passed in July 2024, and this episode is dedicated in his honor. Yakoke for your service, Sgt. Colbert.Please keep an eye out for War Chief Collection’s relaunch in Summer 2025: https://www.warchiefcollection.com/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
"Don’t forget what was sacrificed. And keep fighting in the ways you can. You are still occupied. You are still here. You are born of real survivors. So go live.”These are the powerful words from my guest, comic book artist Jim Terry (Ho-Chunk), in his book “Paper Cut”.I really enjoyed this casual conversation with Jim, who lives not far from me in Chicago. He opened my eyes to the history and presence of the Ho-Chunk people — “people of the big voice.” You might also know them by the name once given to them: Winnebago.And by the way — did you know “Chicago” (or chicagoua) most likely comes from the Algonquin word for onions… or maybe even garlic?Jim and I also talked about his life as a freelance artist, the funny (and sometimes awkward) conversations between Native and non-Native people, and the deeper, more personal themes behind his book “Come Home, Indio”. In it, he opens up about feelings of not belonging and a lifelong journey toward making peace (or something like it) with the treatment of our Native American ancestors.We also touched on the story of Edward E. Ayer — a lumber baron who, in 1911, donated 17,000 Native American manuscripts, photos, and artifacts to the Newberry Library. Today, that collection has grown to over 130,000 volumes. (Some of those items also found a home at Chicago’s Field Museum.) Jim was honored to be commissioned by the Newberry Library for their Indigenous Chicago program, creating artwork inspired by those thousands of historical documents.Purchase your copy of the “Paper Cuts” comic book here: https://bookshop.newberry.org/paper-cuts And check out Jim’s website here: https://www.woundedbutdangerous.com/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
According to the American Addiction Centers:"The rate of alcohol use among Native Americans is significantly higher than in other ethnic groups. The rate of Native Americans with an alcohol use disorder is higher than that of the total population. And one in ten young Native Americans (ages 18–25) has an alcohol use disorder.”What if there were a Native-owned, alcohol-free alternative that not only tasted amazing but was actually good for you?Could this help our Native communities — and others — who are struggling with substance abuse? And what about those who simply enjoy the taste of wine or beer, but are looking to make a healthier lifestyle change?Enter Jody Colbert — entrepreneur, founder and president of War Chief Collection, and proud descendant of the great Comanche warrior Quanah Parker.In this episode, you’ll learn about Jody’s line of non-alcoholic beverages, her personal journey to sobriety, and her deep connection to Quanah Parker. In future episodes, you’ll meet her aunties and uncle and hear even more stories about this iconic figure in Native history.A couple of important notes:Since this episode was recorded two years ago, some exciting things are on the horizon: Jody will be relaunching War Chief Collection with new products in Summer 2025.In this episode, Jody speaks of her greatest hero: her father, Sgt. Robert Colbert (Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Creek), a Purple Heart recipient and Marine veteran of the Vietnam War, and a proud member of the Chickasaw Warrior Society. Sgt. Colbert sadly passed in July 2024, and this episode is dedicated in his honor. Yakoke for your service, Sgt. Colbert.Please keep an eye out for War Chief Collection’s relaunch in Summer 2025: https://www.warchiefcollection.com/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/#jodycolbert #sgtcolbert #WarChiefCollection #choctawnationofoklahoma #nativechoctalkpodcast #nativechoctalk #rachaelellenyoungman #rachaelyoungman #Choctaw #chahta #nativeamerican #AmericanIndian #nativepodcast
"Don’t forget what was sacrificed. And keep fighting in the ways you can. You are still occupied. You are still here. You are born of real survivors. So go live.”These are the powerful words from my guest, comic book artist Jim Terry (Ho-Chunk), in his book “Paper Cut”.I really enjoyed this casual conversation with Jim, who lives not far from me in Chicago. He opened my eyes to the history and presence of the Ho-Chunk people — “people of the big voice.” You might also know them by the name once given to them: Winnebago.And by the way — did you know “Chicago” (or chicagoua) most likely comes from the Algonquin word for onions… or maybe even garlic?Jim and I also talked about his life as a freelance artist, the funny (and sometimes awkward) conversations between Native and non-Native people, and the deeper, more personal themes behind his book “Come Home, Indio”. In it, he opens up about feelings of not belonging and a lifelong journey toward making peace (or something like it) with the treatment of our Native American ancestors.We also touched on the story of Edward E. Ayer — a lumber baron who, in 1911, donated 17,000 Native American manuscripts, photos, and artifacts to the Newberry Library. Today, that collection has grown to over 130,000 volumes. (Some of those items also found a home at Chicago’s Field Museum.) Jim was honored to be commissioned by the Newberry Library for their Indigenous Chicago program, creating artwork inspired by those thousands of historical documents.P.S. Jim — it was also a treat meeting your surprise guest (your cat)! He did like a mountain lion, enit, my friend.Purchase your copy of the “Paper Cuts” comic book here: https://bookshop.newberry.org/paper-cuts And check out Jim’s website here: https://www.woundedbutdangerous.com/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 2"Don’t forget what was sacrificed. And keep fighting in the ways you can. You are still occupied. You are still here. You are born of real survivors. So go live.”These are the powerful words from my guest, comic book artist Jim Terry (Ho-Chunk), in his book “Paper Cut”.I really enjoyed this casual conversation with Jim, who lives not far from me in Chicago. He opened my eyes to the history and presence of the Ho-Chunk people — “people of the big voice.” You might also know them by the name once given to them: Winnebago.And by the way — did you know “Chicago” (or chicagoua) most likely comes from the Algonquin word for onions… or maybe even garlic?Jim and I also talked about his life as a freelance artist, the funny (and sometimes awkward) conversations between Native and non-Native people, and the deeper, more personal themes behind his book “Come Home, Indio”. In it, he opens up about feelings of not belonging and a lifelong journey toward making peace (or something like it) with the treatment of our Native American ancestors.We also touched on the story of Edward E. Ayer — a lumber baron who, in 1911, donated 17,000 Native American manuscripts, photos, and artifacts to the Newberry Library. Today, that collection has grown to over 130,000 volumes. (Some of those items also found a home at Chicago’s Field Museum.) Jim was honored to be commissioned by the Newberry Library for their Indigenous Chicago program, creating artwork inspired by those thousands of historical documents.Purchase your copy of the “Paper Cuts” comic book here: https://bookshop.newberry.org/paper-cuts And check out Jim’s website here: https://www.woundedbutdangerous.com/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 3March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the powerful stories of women throughout history. So today, we’re celebrating both history and healing!Join us as Sharon Day, a member of the Bois Forte Band of Ojibwe, shares her ancestral stories and her work leading healing water walks.Wondering what a water walk is? Tune in to discover its significance, along with Sharon’s inspiring journey of sobriety, healing, and giving back as the Executive Director of the Indigenous People’s Task Force.Nibi (Water) Walk: https://www.nibiwalk.org/ Indigenous People’s Task Force: https://indigenouspeoplestf.org/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the powerful stories of women throughout history. So today, we’re celebrating both history and healing!Join us as Sharon Day, a member of the Bois Forte Band of Ojibwe, shares her ancestral stories and her work leading healing water walks.Wondering what a water walk is? Tune in to discover its significance, along with Sharon’s inspiring journey of sobriety, healing, and giving back as the Executive Director of the Indigenous People’s Task Force.Nibi (Water) Walk: https://www.nibiwalk.org/ Indigenous People’s Task Force: https://indigenouspeoplestf.org/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the powerful stories of women throughout history. So today, we’re celebrating both history and healing!Join us as Sharon Day, a member of the Bois Forte Band of Ojibwe, shares her ancestral stories and her work leading healing water walks.Wondering what a water walk is? Tune in to discover its significance, along with Sharon’s inspiring journey of sobriety, healing, and giving back as the Executive Director of the Indigenous People’s Task Force.Nibi (Water) Walk: https://www.nibiwalk.org/ Indigenous People’s Task Force: https://indigenouspeoplestf.org/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“To the Choctaw proud, ours is the sovereign nation offering opportunities for growth and prosperity.” This is the stated mission of my tribe, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. For the Choctaw, creating opportunities isn’t just about supporting our own people—it’s about uplifting the surrounding communities as well.Sara Seals, Director of Marketing at Choctaw Nation, shares the tribe’s mission to capture and share the stories of our tribal members and the impactful work of the ongoing campaign, “Together We’re More.”I was honored to be featured in this campaign, sharing my passion for preserving Native American stories. One of the key inspirations behind my work is the life and legacy of my great-grandmother, Ella.In this episode, we dive deeper into the meaning behind “Together We’re More”—a message that extends beyond the Choctaw Nation. It reflects the power of collaboration between Choctaws and non-Natives alike. This vision comes to life every day through our tribe’s commitment to strengthening communities—investing in infrastructure, roads, education, clean water, and more.No matter your background—Choctaw, Native, or neither—we can all embrace the idea that together, we’re stronger. Together, we’re more.Yakoke, Sara!See and hear the stories of my fellow Choctaws at https://togetherweremore.com/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In today’s episode, we proudly celebrate Veteran’s Day and honor our men and women who have bravely served our country! My guest, Jackson Weaver, a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and a Service-Connected Disabled Veteran, shares about his family’s legacy of dedicated servicemen, such as Jackson’s grandpa known as “Chief” to all who knew him and the interesting stories of when he was in US Army Air Corp (now Air Force), Roosevelt’s Rough Riders and much more. These are stories you won’t want to miss!Jackson also discusses his experience in growing his career after military service and as the owner of WorldWide Medical Staffing, a healthcare staffing company, serving federal, private and Native American hospitals across the US. And we’ll discuss information for Native Americans seeking a career in the medical field, resume building, and more.If you’re looking to staff a medical job or are looking for a medical job yourself, check out www.wwmedical.com! Jackson’s grandpa, Jack O. Weaver Jr.’s story is included, along with other Choctaw stories in Memory Keepers by Choctaw Author, Judy Allen - get your copy here! https://www.choctawnation.com/biskinik/people-you-know/memory-keepers-now-available-at-cno-headquarters-gift-shop/To those who have served our country, we thank you!In loving memory of Jack O. Weaver, Jr., PFC Mykel F. Miller and all the men and women who lost their lives serving our great country. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In today’s episode, we proudly celebrate Veteran’s Day and honor our men and women who have bravely served our country! My guest, Jackson Weaver, a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and a Service-Connected Disabled Veteran, shares about his family’s legacy of dedicated servicemen, such as Jackson’s grandpa known as “Chief” to all who knew him and the interesting stories of when he was in US Army Air Corp (now Air Force), Roosevelt’s Rough Riders and much more. These are stories you won’t want to miss!Jackson also discusses his experience in growing his career after military service and as the owner of WorldWide Medical Staffing, a healthcare staffing company, serving federal, private and Native American hospitals across the US. And we’ll discuss information for Native Americans seeking a career in the medical field, resume building, and more.If you’re looking to staff a medical job or are looking for a medical job yourself, check out www.wwmedical.com! Jackson’s grandpa, Jack O. Weaver Jr.’s story is included, along with other Choctaw stories in Memory Keepers by Choctaw Author, Judy Allen - get your copy here! https://www.choctawnation.com/biskinik/people-you-know/memory-keepers-now-available-at-cno-headquarters-gift-shop/To those who have served our country, we thank you!In loving memory of Jack O. Weaver, Jr., PFC Mykel F. Miller and all the men and women who lost their lives serving our great country. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 2In today’s episode, we proudly celebrate Veteran’s Day and honor our men and women who have bravely served our country! My guest, Jackson Weaver, a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and a Service-Connected Disabled Veteran, shares about his family’s legacy of dedicated servicemen, such as Jackson’s grandpa known as “Chief” to all who knew him and the interesting stories of when he was in US Army Air Corp (now Air Force), Roosevelt’s Rough Riders and much more. These are stories you won’t want to miss!Jackson also discusses his experience in growing his career after military service and as the owner of WorldWide Medical Staffing, a healthcare staffing company, serving federal, private and Native American hospitals across the US. And we’ll discuss information for Native Americans seeking a career in the medical field, resume building, and more.If you’re looking to staff a medical job or are looking for a medical job yourself, check out www.wwmedical.com! Jackson’s grandpa, Jack O. Weaver Jr.’s story is included, along with other Choctaw stories in Memory Keepers by Choctaw Author, Judy Allen - get your copy here! https://www.choctawnation.com/biskinik/people-you-know/memory-keepers-now-available-at-cno-headquarters-gift-shop/To those who have served our country, we thank you!In loving memory of Jack O. Weaver, Jr., PFC Mykel F. Miller and all the men and women who lost their lives serving our great country. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 1In today’s episode, we proudly celebrate Veteran’s Day and honor our men and women who have bravely served our country! My guest, Jackson Weaver, a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and a Service-Connected Disabled Veteran, shares about his family’s legacy of dedicated servicemen, such as Jackson’s grandpa known as “Chief” to all who knew him and the interesting stories of when he was in US Army Air Corp (now Air Force), Roosevelt’s Rough Riders and much more. These are stories you won’t want to miss!Jackson also discusses his experience as the owner of WorldWide Medical Staffing, a healthcare staffing company, serving federal, private and Native American hospitals across the US. And we’ll discuss information for Native Americans seeking a career in the medical field, resume building, and more.If you’re looking to staff a medical job or are looking for a medical job yourself, check out www.wwmedical.com! Jackson’s grandpa, Jack O. Weaver Jr.’s story is included, along with other Choctaw stories in Memory Keepers by Choctaw Author, Judy Allen - get your copy here! https://www.choctawnation.com/biskinik/people-you-know/memory-keepers-now-available-at-cno-headquarters-gift-shop/To those who have served our country, we thank you!In loving memory of Jack O. Weaver, Jr., PFC Mykel F. Miller and all the men and women who lost their lives serving our great country. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
This summer, I embarked on a road trip to Tuskahoma, Oklahoma, for our annual Choctaw Labor Day Festival. Nestled among the rolling hills of the Kiamichi Mountains, the event was a vibrant celebration featuring stickball tournaments, frybread, gourd dancing, and Choctaw Village activities. While these cherished traditions always make the journey worthwhile, this year's experience was especially meaningful.On August 30, 2024, we honored the historic Choctaw monetary gift sent to the Irish during the Great Famine with the unveiling of the Eternal Heart monument, created by Choctaw sculptor Sam Guerrero Stitt. This remarkable piece stands as a companion to the Kindred Spirit monument in Midleton, County Cork, Ireland, designed by Alex Pentek.I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to The National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park, the Irish Heritage Trust, the Sharing Lands research group, and the Government of Ireland Emigrant Support Programme for their invaluable collaboration and support. Special thanks also go to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma for making this moment possible!The connection between the Irish and the Choctaw is a profound testament to kindred spirits—a friendship forged through hardship and solidified by an enduring act of compassion. We honor the struggles and resilience of our Choctaw and Irish ancestors, whose spirits continue to inspire us. May this bond of kinship flourish for generations to come.Yakoke to my esteemed guests: Chief Gary Batton, Seth Fairchild, Claire Green Young, and, of course, the talented sculptor behind the Eternal Heart, Sam Stitt!The National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park: https://strokestownpark.ie/national-famine-museum/The Irish Heritage Trust: https://irishheritagetrust.ie/Government of Ireland Emigrant Support Programme: https://www.ireland.ie/en/irish-diaspora/emigrant-support-programme/ Choctaw-Ireland Scholarship Program: https://chahtafoundation.com/scholarships/choctawirelandscholarship/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 4It is said that as our ancestors walked the hundreds of miles on the Trail of Tears from their homelands to Indian Territory during The Removal, that singing could be heard echoing through the trees. Those near enough to hear those melodious sounds may have assumed a nearby church service was taking place. What they probably didn’t know at the time was that those singers, young and old, feeble and strong, were forced to walk in frigid weather, and some would succumb to the cold or illness, or were killed by soldiers. And yet, despite their anguish, they sang to their Creator - sometimes songs of sorrow, and other times, songs of hope and praise. Our Choctaw hymns embody a harrowing, yet beautiful history, connected to a deep cultural and spiritual significance. Rooted in the 19th century, these hymns were adapted from Christian traditions introduced by missionaries. And they symbolize resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of the Choctaw people. I spent an incredibly precious day with my guests, Paula Carney and her daughter, Cheryl Weeden (both Choctaw) as I attended their church and enjoyed the Choctaw hymns that were sung (I also sang a couple myself), followed by a wonderful Choctaw meal. Afterwards, Paula and Cheryl shared about their life and ancestral stories with me.Paula also spoke in detail about her time in the boarding schools and how the hymns gave her strength during trying times.May you be blessed as you listen to these hymns and stories of strength and hope! Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 3It is said that as our ancestors walked the hundreds of miles on the Trail of Tears from their homelands to Indian Territory during The Removal, that singing could be heard echoing through the trees. Those near enough to hear those melodious sounds may have assumed a nearby church service was taking place. What they probably didn’t know at the time was that those singers, young and old, feeble and strong, were forced to walk in frigid weather, and some would succumb to the cold or illness, or were killed by soldiers. And yet, despite their anguish, they sang to their Creator - sometimes songs of sorrow, and other times, songs of hope and praise. Our Choctaw hymns embody a harrowing, yet beautiful history, connected to a deep cultural and spiritual significance. Rooted in the 19th century, these hymns were adapted from Christian traditions introduced by missionaries. And they symbolize resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of the Choctaw people. I spent an incredibly precious day with my guests, Paula Carney and her daughter, Cheryl Weeden (both Choctaw) as I attended their church and enjoyed the Choctaw hymns that were sung (I also sang a couple myself), followed by a wonderful Choctaw meal. Afterwards, Paula and Cheryl shared about their life and ancestral stories with me.Paula also spoke in detail about her time in the boarding schools and how the hymns gave her strength during trying times.May you be blessed as you listen to these hymns and stories of strength and hope! Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 2It is said that as our ancestors walked the hundreds of miles on the Trail of Tears from their homelands to Indian Territory during The Removal, that singing could be heard echoing through the trees. Those near enough to hear those melodious sounds may have assumed a nearby church service was taking place. What they probably didn’t know at the time was that those singers, young and old, feeble and strong, were forced to walk in frigid weather, and some would succumb to the cold or illness, or were killed by soldiers. And yet, despite their anguish, they sang to their Creator - sometimes songs of sorrow, and other times, songs of hope and praise. Our Choctaw hymns embody a harrowing, yet beautiful history, connected to a deep cultural and spiritual significance. Rooted in the 19th century, these hymns were adapted from Christian traditions introduced by missionaries. And they symbolize resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of the Choctaw people. I spent an incredibly precious day with my guests, Paula Carney and her daughter, Cheryl Weeden (both Choctaw) as I attended their church and enjoyed the Choctaw hymns that were sung (I also sang a couple myself), followed by a wonderful Choctaw meal. Afterwards, Paula and Cheryl shared about their life and ancestral stories with me.Paula also spoke in detail about her time in the boarding schools and how the hymns gave her strength during trying times.May you be blessed as you listen to these hymns and stories of strength and hope! Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 1It is said that as our ancestors walked the hundreds of miles on the Trail of Tears from their homelands to Indian Territory during The Removal, that singing could be heard echoing through the trees. Those near enough to hear those melodious sounds may have assumed a nearby church service was taking place. What they probably didn’t know at the time was that those singers, young and old, feeble and strong, were forced to walk in frigid weather, and some would succumb to the cold or illness, or were killed by soldiers. And yet, despite their anguish, they sang to their Creator - sometimes songs of sorrow, and other times, songs of hope and praise. Our Choctaw hymns embody a harrowing, yet beautiful history, connected to a deep cultural and spiritual significance. Rooted in the 19th century, these hymns were adapted from Christian traditions introduced by missionaries. And they symbolize resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of the Choctaw people. I spent an incredibly precious day with my guests, Paula Carney and her daughter, Cheryl Weeden (both Choctaw) as I attended their church and enjoyed the Choctaw hymns that were sung (I also sang a couple myself), followed by a wonderful Choctaw meal. Afterwards, Paula and Cheryl shared about their life and ancestral stories with me.Paula also spoke in detail about her time in the boarding schools and how the hymns gave her strength during trying times.May you be blessed as you listen to these hymns and stories of strength and hope!
Part 2For centuries, American Indians carved out a labyrinth of pathways across this land. Spanning hundreds of miles, these trails not only enabled connections among their communities, but also provided access to prime hunting grounds, water and seasonal dwellings. Over time, these well-trodden paths underwent a transformation at the hands of non-Natives, evolving into mail routes, stagecoach lines, railroads, and highways. These pathways continued to serve as essential conduits for all people, across vast distances, albeit in a markedly different capacity. Today, we embark on an adventure spanning 192 miles through old Indian Territory. Along the way, we'll discover some of those trails crafted by our ancestors, which later became pathways for others journeying westward to California. My guest, Jimmy Stephens (Choctaw), holds a personal connection to this history, as he traces his lineage back to William Holloway, a Choctaw forebearer and 4th great grandfather, who owned a station along one of these renowned routes. You’ll enjoy learning about Jimmy’s ancestry and of the pioneers of the American roads that have connected us throughout history!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 1For centuries, American Indians carved out a labyrinth of pathways across this land. Spanning hundreds of miles, these trails not only enabled connections among their communities, but also provided access to prime hunting grounds, water and seasonal dwellings. Over time, these well-trodden paths underwent a transformation at the hands of non-Natives, evolving into mail routes, stagecoach lines, railroads, and highways. These pathways continued to serve as essential conduits for all people, across vast distances, albeit in a markedly different capacity. Today, we embark on an adventure spanning 192 miles through old Indian Territory. Along the way, we'll discover some of those trails crafted by our ancestors, which later became pathways for others journeying westward to California. My guest, Jimmy Stephens (Choctaw), holds a personal connection to this history, as he traces his lineage back to William Holloway, a Choctaw forebearer and 4th great grandfather, who owned a station along one of these renowned routes. You’ll enjoy learning about Jimmy’s ancestry and of the pioneers of the American roads that have connected us throughout history!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 3They called her “savage”. She was a tough, independent and widowed single mother, attempting to succeed during a time when women were just starting to have a voice (although many Native women were still very much unheard). Join me and my guest, Nicolette Blount as she delves into the stories of her great grandmother, Wanda Savage, a 1920s Chickasaw sharpshooter, stunt woman, dancer and silent film actress!And Nicolette has beautifully turned Wanda’s story into a show called, “Savage the Musical” and it’s gaining fast acclaim! This is the story of survival, the universal desire to be accepted and a quest for redemption that you must hear!Calling all NATIVE CREATIVES – if you’re looking for work, learn more on these episodes, and check out nativetheaterartists.com! Check out Savage the Musical at https://savagethemusical.com/. And follow the show on Instagram, TikTok, Spotify, iTunes and Pandora!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 2They called her “savage” and she was a tough, independent and widowed single mother, attempting to succeed during a time when women were just starting to have a voice (although many Native women were still very much unheard). Join me and my guest, Nicolette Blount as she delves into the stories of her great grandmother, Wanda Savage, a 1920s Chickasaw sharpshooter, stunt woman, dancer and silent film actress!And Nicolette has beautifully turned Wanda’s story into a show called, “Savage the Musical” and it’s gaining fast acclaim! This is the story of survival, the universal desire to be accepted and a quest for redemption that you must hear!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
They called her “savage” and she was a tough, independent and widowed single mother, attempting to succeed during a time when women were just starting to have a voice (although many Native women were still very much unheard). Join me and my guest, Nicolette Blount as she delves into the stories of her great grandmother, Wanda Savage, a 1920s Chickasaw sharpshooter, stunt woman, dancer and silent film actress!And Nicolette has beautifully turned Wanda’s story into a show called, “Savage the Musical” and it’s gaining fast acclaim! This is the story of survival, the universal desire to be accepted and a quest for redemption that you must hear!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In part 4 of this 4-part series, you’ll step into the rich history, cultural heritage and stories of Alaska's Alutiiq tribe, with my guest, Scott Larionoff (Alutiiq).There’s more to Alaska than just the breathtaking landscapes of the Last Frontier. In this episode, we’ll dive deeper, to learn about distant echoes – the stories – of the Alutiiq people of the past and those who are descendants of those who survived and are still here today.Scott shares with us about his home of Kodiak Island (and of course, the Kodiak bear), the history of the Russian invasion and the Awa'uq Massacre, Alaskan history and more.I know you’ll be moved by the stories of resilience, tradition, and enduring spirit, as we explore this remarkable indigenous community of the Alutiiq people.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcastAll Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In part 3 of this 4-part series, you’ll step into the rich history, cultural heritage and stories of Alaska's Alutiiq tribe, with my guest, Scott Larionoff (Alutiiq).There’s more to Alaska than just the breathtaking landscapes of the Last Frontier. In this episode, we’ll dive deeper, to learn about distant echoes – the stories – of the Alutiiq people of the past and those who are descendants of those who survived and are still here today.Scott shares with us about his home of Kodiak Island (and of course, the Kodiak bear), the history of the Russian invasion and the Awa'uq Massacre, Alaskan history and more.I know you’ll be moved by the stories of resilience, tradition, and enduring spirit, as we explore this remarkable indigenous community of the Alutiiq people.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcastAll Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In part 2 of this 4-part series, you’ll step into the rich history, cultural heritage and stories of Alaska's Alutiiq tribe, with my guest, Scott Larionoff (Alutiiq).There’s more to Alaska than just the breathtaking landscapes of the Last Frontier. In this episode, we’ll dive deeper, to learn about distant echoes – the stories – of the Alutiiq people of the past and those who are descendants of those who survived and are still here today.Scott shares with us about his home of Kodiak Island (and of course, the Kodiak bear), the history of the Russian invasion and the Awa'uq Massacre, Alaskan history and more.I know you’ll be moved by the stories of resilience, tradition, and enduring spirit, as we explore this remarkable indigenous community of the Alutiiq people.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcastAll Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In part 1 of this 4-part series, you’ll step into the rich history, cultural heritage and stories of Alaska's Alutiiq tribe, with my guest, Scott Larionoff (Alutiiq).There’s more to Alaska than just the breathtaking landscapes of the Last Frontier. In this episode, we’ll dive deeper, to learn about distant echoes – the stories – of the Alutiiq people of the past and those who are descendants of those who survived and are still here today.Scott shares with us about his home of Kodiak Island (and of course, the Kodiak bear), the history of the Russian invasion and the Awa'uq Massacre, Alaskan history and more.I know you’ll be moved by the stories of resilience, tradition, and enduring spirit, as we explore this remarkable indigenous community of the Alutiiq people.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcastAll Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“What do some of the most prominent and successful Indigenous artists, leaders and professors have in common? They aren’t Indigenous. There are hundreds of cases of Indigenous identity fraud that we know about, and likely thousands that we do not. So why do these so-called “pretendians” do it? How do they pull it off? And what happens when they are exposed?” (From the Pretendians Podcast Description)My jaw dropped multiple times while visiting with Robert Jago (Kwantlen First Nation & Nooksack) & Angel Ellis (Muscogee (Creek) Nation), the hosts of the hot new podcast, Pretendians. In this episode you’ll especially learn about "Grand Chief" Guillaume Carle, “a French Canadian who made a small fortune creating his own fake First Nation and issuing phony Indian Status Cards to thousands of other identity thieves.”Pretendians are individuals who are non-Native, but pose as Native in order to gain attention and often times, money and fame. Enjoy this 2-part cringy ride as Robert and Angel expose some of the most notorious pretendians. And they’ll also share their own stories and that of their ancestors too! Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“What do some of the most prominent and successful Indigenous artists, leaders and professors have in common? They aren’t Indigenous. There are hundreds of cases of Indigenous identity fraud that we know about, and likely thousands that we do not. So why do these so-called “pretendians” do it? How do they pull it off? And what happens when they are exposed?” (From the Pretendians Podcast Description)My jaw dropped multiple times while visiting with Robert Jago (Kwantlen First Nation & Nooksack) & Angel Ellis (Muscogee (Creek) Nation), the hosts of the hot new podcast, Pretendians. In this episode you’ll especially learn about "Grand Chief" Guillaume Carle, “a French Canadian who made a small fortune creating his own fake First Nation and issuing phony Indian Status Cards to thousands of other identity thieves.”Pretendians are individuals who are non-Native, but pose as Native in order to gain attention and often times, money and fame. Enjoy this 2-part cringy ride as Robert and Angel expose some of the most notorious pretendians. And they’ll also share their own stories and that of their ancestors too! Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Welcome to Native ChocTalk’s Season 7! In this 2-part series, I’d like to start to kick off the season by paying tribute to those who are the life blood of our country - farmers. And in this case, a Chickasaw one.Farmers play an indispensable role in this great country, providing the necessary elements of our sustenance and wellbeing. Their work begins long before the sun rises and often extends well after it sets, driven by a profound connection to the land. One example of such a farmer is my Chickasaw uncle, Lloyd Aiken who’s notorious for holding a cowboy hat on his head and balancing a toothpick between his teeth, while recalling the best stories from his life’s memory bank. I recently took a quick drive from my home in Chickasha to Uncle Lloyd’s cattle farm and home in Washington, Oklahoma – this is Chickasaw country. I wanted to learn more about his life, farming, tending to his ancestral land allotments and service to our country. And I learned so much more than I expected. I hope you’ll enjoy the stories of my Uncle Lloyd as much as I’ve always loved sitting and listening to them. And if you get a chance, thank a farmer for all they do!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Welcome to Native ChocTalk’s Season 7! In the final part of this 2-part series, I’d like to kick off the season by paying tribute to those who are the life blood of our country - farmers. And in this case, a Chickasaw one.Farmers play an indispensable role in this great country, providing the necessary elements of our sustenance and wellbeing. Their work begins long before the sun rises and often extends well after it sets, driven by a profound connection to the land. One example of such a farmer is my Chickasaw uncle, Lloyd Aiken who’s notorious for holding a cowboy hat on his head and balancing a toothpick between his teeth, while recalling the best stories from his life’s memory bank. I recently took a quick drive from my home in Chickasha to Uncle Lloyd’s cattle farm and home in Washington, Oklahoma – this is Chickasaw country. I wanted to learn more about his life, farming, tending to his ancestral land allotments and service to our country. And I learned so much more than I expected. I hope you’ll enjoy the stories of my Uncle Lloyd as much as I’ve always loved sitting and listening to them. And if you get a chance, thank a farmer for all they do!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 2 of 2In the heart of our journey, where tales of the past and tradition intertwine with preservation, we stand on the cusp of a milestone today—a celebration of 100 stories of those who came before us here on Native ChocTalk, A Podcast by Natives for All. Welcome, dear listeners, to a momentous occasion—a testament to the power of storytelling, to the resilience of culture, and to the unwavering spirit of our Native American people. Today, we embark on a journey of reflection and gratitude, as we celebrate our history.I hope you’ll enjoy this 2-part celebration of Native ChocTalk’s 100th Episode! In parts 1 and 2, my husband Nic and our doggo, Taloa, join me in walking through clips of episodes from seasons 1 through 5. You'll also discover some behind-the-scenes fun facts and get to know more about my own little family too!If you’d like to join us in the celebration, feel free to shop my “Celebration Yvnvsh” t-shirts on Café Press here (a portion of proceeds goes toward Native causes): https://www.cafepress.com/nativechoctalkshop/17448261I’d like to sincerely thank all of you listeners for joining me throughout this journey of Native American storytelling – I can’t thank you enough for your support.Yakoke, my friends!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 1 of 2In the heart of our journey, where tales of the past and tradition intertwine with preservation, we stand on the cusp of a milestone today—a celebration of 100 stories of those who came before us here on Native ChocTalk, A Podcast by Natives for All. Welcome, dear listeners, to a momentous occasion—a testament to the power of storytelling, to the resilience of culture, and to the unwavering spirit of our Native American people. Today, we embark on a journey of reflection and gratitude, as we celebrate our history.I hope you’ll enjoy this 2-part celebration of Native ChocTalk’s 100th Episode! In parts 1 and 2, my husband Nic and our doggo, Taloa, join me in walking through clips of episodes from seasons 1 through 5. You'll also discover some behind-the-scenes fun facts and get to know more about my own little family too!If you’d like to join us in the celebration, feel free to shop my “Celebration Yvnvsh” t-shirts on Café Press here (a portion of proceeds goes toward Native causes): https://www.cafepress.com/nativechoctalkshop/17448261I’d like to sincerely thank all of you listeners for joining me throughout this journey of Native American storytelling – I can’t thank you enough for your support.Yakoke, my friends!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Silent and somber, the two boys stood before the doorstep, memories flooding their minds like a rushing river. They recalled the gentle cadence of their mother's voice as she paused to listen to the whippoorwills' melodies in the trees. Each note seemed to echo the warmth of her presence, now painfully absent.Their thoughts drifted to the countless afternoons spent playing in the sweltering heat, only to be welcomed inside by their mother's loving embrace and a cool glass of lemonade. The memory of her unwavering care lingered in the air, a poignant reminder of all they had lost.And then there were her nightly prayers, whispered in the sacred tongue of the Kiowa, the absence of her soothing words now leaving an ache in their souls, a void impossible to fill.Join me, as Blas Preciado, a Kiowa Veteran shares the oral history of his ancestors, as well as his heartbreaking, yet inspiring story. In this episode you’ll learn about:•Those who came before us, like Viejo, Red Thunder and Grass Carrier•The history and the language of the Kiowa•The Massacre of Cutthroat Gap•KCA: The history of the Kiowa, Comanche and Apache coming together•The “Indian Beverly Hillbillies”•Blas and his brother living alone in their home after the death of their mother•Facing trauma head-on with support, therapy and faith in GodNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
His name is Barry Friedman and he’s been collecting supplying 100-year-old Pendletons since 1969. In fact, he was the supplier of 60 period Pendleton for the movie, “Killers of the Flower Moon”.Although Barry isn’t a Pendleton employee, he is the vintage blanket consultant to Pendleton Woolen Mills, and Ralph Lauren himself has been a customer of Barry’s for over 30 years. He also sells museum quality blankets to private collectors and has been instrumental in helping to form the most important collections in the world. In addition to being an appraiser, consultant and seller of these Pendleton blankets, he’s also the author of “Chasing Rainbows: Collecting American Indian Trade & Camp Blankets” and its sequel, “Still Chasing Rainbows”.In this episode, you’ll learn about:•The history of the Pendleton blanket•The case of the cursed Pendleton blanket•The surprising history of the patterns on the blankets •What happened to the blankets after Killers of the Flower Moon•Round-corner Pendleton blankets (hint: if you have one, keep it!)•Barry’s former career as a comedy writer in Hollywood, and as a Columnist and radio personalityNote: I encourage those of you who aren’t quite fans of Pendleton because it’s not a Native-owned company, to listen to this episode…I think you’ll still find it interesting.I’d also like to share the beautiful work of Native-owned Eight Generation – check them out here: https://eighthgeneration.com/Barry’s collection is the largest in the world and can be viewed in Phoenix, Arizona by appointment. Call, text (480)-309-4697 or e-mail at blanketboy@cox.net to make arrangements.Website: www.barryfriedmanblankets.com Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barryfriedmanindianblankets/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarryFriedmanIndianBlanketsNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
His name is Barry Friedman and he’s been collecting supplying 100-year-old Pendletons since 1969. In fact, he was the supplier of 60 period Pendleton blankets for the movie, “Killers of the Flower Moon”.Although Barry isn’t a Pendleton employee, he is the vintage blanket consultant to Pendleton Woolen Mills, and Ralph Lauren himself has been a customer of Barry’s for over 30 years. He also sells museum quality blankets to private collectors and has been instrumental in helping to form the most important collections in the world. In addition to being an appraiser, consultant and seller of these historical blankets, he’s also the author of the book, “Chasing Rainbows: Collecting American Indian Trade & Camp Blankets” and its sequel, “Still Chasing Rainbows”.In this episode, you’ll learn about:•The history of the Pendleton blanket•The surprising history of the patterns on the blankets •What became of the blankets after Killers of the Flower Moon•Round-corner Pendleton blankets (hint: if you have one, keep it!)•Barry’s former career as a comedy writer in Hollywood, and as a Columnist and radio personalityNote: I encourage those of you who aren’t quite fans of Pendleton (due to their not being a Native-owned company) to listen to this episode too…I think you’ll still find it interesting.I’d also like to share the beautiful work of Native-owned Eighth Generation – check them out here: https://eighthgeneration.com/Barry’s collection is the largest in the world and can be viewed in Phoenix, Arizona by appointment. Call, text (480)-309-4697 or e-mail at blanketboy@cox.net to make arrangements.Website: www.barryfriedmanblankets.com Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barryfriedmanindianblankets/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarryFriedmanIndianBlanketsNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
When I started Native ChocTalk, my goal was to support others in preserving their Native American ancestral stories. Some of us heard our families telling the accounts of those who came before us, but without preservation, many of those stories are now dust in the wind. I’m proud of my guest and friend, Stanford Lake (Diné) who agreed to share some Navajo history and ancestral stories with us, and I think you will also enjoy!In the final part of this series, Stanford shares about: •His late shicheii (his grandpa), Ned Cly, of the Kinyaa’aanii clan, who was born behind the “Three Sisters” Ned was also recruited a few times to be in John Wayne movie sets!•Bahe Bessie Parrish, his shimásání (grandma), who was a traditional medicine woman•The Long Walk - a dark time in Navajo history•His 3x great grandfather, Chief Hashkéníinii who led his people to safety •The origination of frybread•The Navajo’s 4-clan system•Some inspiration for all you runners out thereStanford would like to promote the following organizations – check them out!Red Earth Running Company: https://redearthrun.co/ Native Women Running: https://www.nativewomenrunning.com/ Rising Hearts: https://www.risinghearts.org/nativelands I hope as you listen to Stanford, you’ll be inspired to also record and preserve the stories of your ancestors. You won’t regret it – it’s a gift you give to your family and your descendants. God bless!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
When I started Native ChocTalk, my goal was to support others in preserving their Native American ancestral stories. Some of us heard our families telling the accounts of those who came before us, but without preservation, many of those stories are now dust in the wind. I’m proud of my guest and friend, Stanford Lake (Diné) who agreed to share some Navajo history and ancestral stories with us, and I think you will also enjoy!Stanford, an award-winning Engineer of 20 years is originally from Kayenta/Black Mesa on the Navajo reservation. In part 1 of this 2-part series, he shares about: •Being a first-language Navajo speaker •Growing up in the traditional way of life and herding sheep•The balance of Navajo life, centered around the harvest•Traditional Hogan homes/ceremonial places•Stories of that old trickster, the coyote•Stanford’s Code Talker ancestor•Ira Hays, the serviceman who raised the flag in Iwo Jima•Navajo’s arranged marriages, culture and ceremonial sweats •Stanford’s grandmother, Dzáán who herded sheep until she was 80 years old!I hope as you listen to Stanford, you’ll be inspired to also record and preserve the stories of your ancestors. You won’t regret it – it’s a gift you give to your family and your descendants. God bless!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
They bravely raised their Winchester rifles, aiming smack dab at the lawlessness of the wild west. Meet the Turnbulls – a legendary Choctaw family who did their part to create a safer Indian Territory for their families.Here to tell us more about these vigilantes is their descendant, Bobby Bulls (Choctaw), coming to you from the Texas panhandle where many of his ancestors once roamed. In this episode, you’ll learn about:•Bobby’s ancestors’ quest to clean up the west, as both Rangers and as Lighthorsemen•Wahcahtambee (meaning “Cattle Trader”) who walked the Trail of Tears, and his wife, Shakaphona•The surprising origination of the name Turnbull •Mary Turnbull and Charles Henry Benton•The days of cowboys, cattle drives, stampedes and cattle rustling•Today’s cattle raiding and Ponzi schemes •The story of the poor darned horse who was struck by lightningYakoke, Bobby for sharing with us about your legendary family!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In this Native ChocTalk story-time, Author and Major James D. Brewer (retired), shares about his historical fiction book, “Blood on the Crossties: The Florida Chautauqua Murders (A Choctaw Parker Mystery/Adventure)”. In this episode, you’ll learn about the emergence of the railroad and its history, the days of cowboys and gambling (and the game of Faro). Culminating alongside the expansion of the railroad, were the effects of politics, the Freedman, war, and the north and the south as various races began to intermingle. Discover fascinating real-life historical characters and hear about the fictional character, Choctaw Jimmy Lee Parker, a Railroad Detective, hired to solve the mystery of stolen money, rifles and more.This episode and book are great for book clubs, homeschool families, and road trips (and the book is now out on audio)!You can find “Blood on the Crossties” on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Crossties-Florida-Chautauqua-Adventure/dp/1956851720, as well as other places where you buy your books.Now on audio as well: https://www.audible.com/pd/Blood-on-the-Crossties-Audiobook/B0CRZDG83D Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“When all the tribes find their languages and their culture, that’s when all the healing will begin. And then all the generations will be in a better place.” - Solomon Little Owl (Crow)Listeners, I’m proud to present to you, my friend, Solomon Little Owl who shares fascinating stories about his family, the Crow people, and his own incredible journey!In this 2-part episode, you’ll learn about:•The story of the “Fightin’ Whites” (trust me, you’ll want to hear this!)•How buffalo hunts aided Native students•The Crow’s clan system•Who were the enemies and who were the allies of the Crow?•Crow dances such as the bear dance, sun dance and war dance•Were the Crow tall people?•The 3 New Years of the Crow•What did various tribes call the Crow?•The Crow fairSolomon asks for prayers for his tribe. And if you’re ever in the area, please consider supporting Crow businesses: http://www.crow-nsn.gov/tribal-businesses.html Ahóoh, Solomon! And prayers going up for the Crow people.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“When all the tribes find their languages and their culture, that’s when all the healing will begin. And then all the generations will be in a better place.” - Solomon Little Owl (Crow)Listeners, I’m proud to present to you, my friend, Solomon Little Owl who shares fascinating stories about his family, the Crow people, and his own incredible journey!In this 2-part episode, you’ll learn about:•The story of the “Fightin’ Whites” (trust me, you’ll want to hear this!)•How buffalo hunts aided Native students•The Crow’s clan system•Who were the enemies and who were the allies of the Crow?•Crow dances such as the bear dance, sun dance and war dance•Were the Crow tall people?•The 3 New Years of the Crow•What did various tribes call the Crow?•The Crow fairSolomon asks for prayers for his tribe. And if you’re ever in the area, please consider supporting Crow businesses: http://www.crow-nsn.gov/tribal-businesses.html Ahóoh, Solomon! And prayers going up for the Crow people.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
History may be in the past, but there are many women today who are truly history in the making! In the spirit of Women’s History Month, my guest, Erin Pendleton and I wanted to share a bit of inspiration. Not only is Erin building her career as a post-producer for Amazon Brand Social, she’s also shedding light on the topic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. And as a rape advocate, she uses her own story to fuel her fire to help other women.Today we’ll hear Erin’s story, the amazing work she does in production, about her documentary, and the stories of her grandmother – the Choctaw woman who inspired her. Be sure to follow Erin here:•Instagram.com/erinaberra•Tiktok: @erinaberra•Twitter/X: @erinaberraAnd if you’re looking for a top notch producer, contact her at erinaberra@gmail.com.Yakoke, Erin!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I hope you’ll enjoy the final episode of this 5-part series on the most requested topic from my listeners – The Code Talkers. Meet scholar and Anthropologist, Dr. William Meadows, Professor at Missouri State University who shares about the groundbreaking research detailed in his book, “The First Code Talkers, Native American Communicators of World War I”. Get ready to experience a mix of oral history, individual soldiers’ accounts and newspapers, truly bringing these heroes’ stories to life. You can find Dr. Meadows’ book here and in many online and retail shops: http://tinyurl.com/bdfwp2kb In episode 5 you’ll hear about:•Our Osage, Comanche, Ho-Chunk, Oklahoma Cherokee and Sioux heroes of WWI. •The Congressional Code Talker Medals •Quite a few stories and facts you may not have known about the Code Talkers Yakoke to the brave Native American men and women who have served our country and all our Veterans! And many thanks to Dr. Meadows for sharing his research with us. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I hope you’ll enjoy episode 5 of this 5-part series on the most requested topic from my listeners – The Code Talkers. Meet scholar and Anthropologist, Dr. William Meadows, Professor at Missouri State University who shares about the groundbreaking research detailed in his book, “The First Code Talkers, Native American Communicators of World War I”. Get ready to experience a mix of oral history, individual soldiers’ accounts and newspapers, truly bringing these heroes’ stories to life. You can find Dr. Meadows’ book here and in many online and retail shops: http://tinyurl.com/bdfwp2kb In episode 4 you’ll learn about:•The Choctaw Code Talkers•The fascinating life and story of Sergeant Otis Leader!•After you’ve read this book, be sure to purchase @sarahelisabethsaywers book on Otis Leader: https://chickasawpress.com/Books/Otis-W-Leader-The-Ideal-American-Doughboy.aspx •How the Germans regarded the Native American soldiers in high esteem•Some of the Military Term Choctaw Pronunciation Translations (such as “1st Battalion” was “one grain of corn” and “machine gun” was “little gun shoot fast” in Choctaw)Yakoke to the brave Native American men and women who have served our country and all our Veterans! And many thanks to Dr. Meadows for sharing his research with us. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I hope you’ll enjoy episode 3 of this 5-part series on the most requested topic from my listeners – The Code Talkers. Meet scholar and Anthropologist, Dr. William Meadows, Professor at Missouri State University who shares about the groundbreaking research detailed in his book, “The First Code Talkers, Native American Communicators of World War I”. Get ready to experience a mix of oral history, individual soldiers’ accounts and newspapers, truly bringing these heroes’ stories to life. In episode 3 you’ll hear about:•More about the Choctaw Code Talkers•Was code talking actually classified as secret after the war and were the code talkers sworn to secrecy about their code talking? •Choctaws, Benjamin Colbert, Victor Brown, Louis Gooding, Albert Billy, Noel Johnson, •A deep dive into Joseph Oklahombi – his significant and heroic contributions in battle, the many misconceptions around his actions during the war, and his famous “panther cry”•We discuss Judy Allen’s book, Joseph Oklahombi and The Panther War Cry which can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/5hf3tuty Yakoke to the brave Native American men and women who have served our country and all our Veterans! And many thanks to Dr. Meadows for sharing his research with us. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I hope you’ll enjoy episode 2 of this 5-part series on the most requested topic from my listeners – The Code Talkers.Meet scholar and Anthropologist, Dr. William Meadows, Professor at Missouri State University who shares about the groundbreaking research detailed in his book, “The First Code Talkers, Native American Communicators of World War I”. Get ready to experience a mix of oral history, individual soldiers’ accounts and newspapers, truly bringing these heroes’ stories to life.In episode 2 you’ll learn about:The Choctaw Code TalkersHow Native boarding schools prepared many Native American boys for the military.The 36th contained nearly 600 Native Americans speaking 26 languages and dialects.Natives in sports while serving in WW1.Why the 36th became known as the “Millionaire Company”The serious impacts of the Germans tapping into Americans communications.Why being a “runner” had to have been the worst job in the WWI.What launched the first code talking.Yakoke to the brave Native American men and women who have served our country and all our Veterans! And many thanks to Dr. Meadows for sharing his research with us. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
We kick off our first episode of season 6 with a 5-part series on the most requested topic from my listeners – The Code Talkers. Meet scholar and Anthropologist, Dr. William Meadows, Professor at Missouri State University who shares about the groundbreaking research detailed in his book, “The First Code Talkers, Native American Communicators of World War I”. Get ready to experience a mix of oral history, individual soldiers’ accounts and newspapers, truly bringing these heroes’ stories to life. You can find Dr. Meadows’ book here and in many online and retail shops: http://tinyurl.com/bdfwp2kb In this episode you’ll learn about:•The importance and power of secure communications in military operations. •How code talking dumbfounded the Germans. •A 1919 Stars and Strips article stating attributes of Native servicemen, included being good runners, good marksmen, stoic under fire, using signals readily, their “uncanny sense of direction,” in blindfolded tests, scouting and patrol work in combat and their abilities at night.•The term, “Indian Scout Syndrome”.•Compared to the total population at the time, Native Americans volunteered at a rate nearly twice that of the rest of the American population.•The Easter Band of Cherokee in WWI.Dr. Meadows set out to discover the following in his research:•Who were the first code talkers? Some think the Navajo, some would guess the Choctaw. •You may be surprised at the answer!•Was code talking actually classified as secret after the war? •What factors led to the formation of Native-language military communicators in World War I? •Who originated the idea to utilize the Choctaw, and how many were used in WW I? I hope you’ll enjoy this series on our brave Native American men and women who served our country. And yakoke for sharing your research with us, Dr. Meadows!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Last year was the 175th anniversary of the Irish gift, in which the Choctaw people donated money to the Irish during the potato famine. This November, we once again honor the spirit of giving, with my Choctaw guest, Sam Guerrero Stitt! In parts 1 and 2 of this episode, you’ll hear about: •Sam’s ancestral stories, including his ties to the Irish•Sam’s Eternal Heart sculpture in Oklahoma will celebrate the Choctaw gift (a companion piece to the Kindred Spirits sculpture in Ireland)•Sam’s new service, Native American Genealogy! www.natamgen.com•Helpful tips on researching our native ancestors•Is Brett Favre native American?•The REAL story of David H Folsom•The Freedmen•The story of the bullet on the gravestone•The “blurry” topic of Choctaw clans•Traditional Choctaw clothingIf you’re searching for your American Indian ancestors, don’t forget to check out Native American Genealogy! www.natamgen.com I’m so excited about this!You can hear more about the Choctaw gift and the history of the Great Famine in Native ChocTalk’s Season 3, with Seth Fairchild, Executive Director of the Chahta Foundation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qZ8J0juWmANative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Last year was the 175th anniversary of the Irish gift, in which the Choctaw people donated money to the Irish during the potato famine. This November, we once again honor the spirit of giving, with my Choctaw guest, Sam Guerrero Stitt! In parts 1 and 2 of this episode, you’ll hear about: •Sam’s ancestral stories, including his ties to the Irish•Sam’s Eternal Heart sculpture in Oklahoma will celebrate the Choctaw gift (a companion piece to the Kindred Spirits sculpture in Ireland)•Sam’s new service, Native American Genealogy! www.natamgen.com•Helpful tips on researching our native ancestors•Is Brett Favre native American?•The REAL story of David H Folsom•The Freedmen•The story of the bullet on the gravestone•The “blurry” topic of Choctaw clans•Traditional Choctaw clothingIf you’re searching for your American Indian ancestors, don’t forget to check out NATAM gen Native American Genealogy! www.natamgen.com I’m so excited about this!You can hear more about the Choctaw gift and the history of the Great Famine in Native ChocTalk’s Season 3, with Seth Fairchild, Executive Director of the Chahta Foundation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qZ8J0juWmANative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Listeners, before I share about today’s episode, I have a question for you. Will you be in Chicago, November 7th or 8th of 2023?I’ll be singing Choctaw hymns and narrating at a Chickasaw concert – Pa I Sha - composed by none other than Chickasaw Composer, Violinist, and Artistic Director, Brandi Berry Benson!Join us during Native American Heritage Month, on November 8th at 7:00pm at the Epiphany Center for the Arts. Tickets are just $20. Brandi is also presenting Pa I Sha at no charge, at Upstairs Theater in Evanston Township High School on November 7th at 6:30pm.You’ll love this episode in which Brandi shares about:•The Chickasaw flute and other period instruments utilized in the concert•The inspiration behind Pa I Sha – her 4th great grandmother’s story •Her ancestral history and stories •The mysteries surrounding James and Jonas Wolf and the Hyah Puk Tuklo clan – perhaps you can help!Brandi and I met through a wonderful mutual friend, Chickasaw composer, Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate. By the way, Shell Shaker: A Chickasaw Opera’s will now premier October 27th, 2024 in Oklahoma City! Brandi, who is faculty of Northwestern and DePaul Universities and the Artistic Director of the Bach & Beethoven Experience (BBE), also teaches Baroque Performance Practice and Ornamentation and has released multiple albums. Check them out at https://brandiberrybenson.com/ and streaming platforms such as apple music, pandora, etc.! •Silver Linings •A Gaelic Summer•An Appalachian Summer•Chicago StoriesAnd her BBE Carols Album will be released in December…what a great Christmas gift or stocking stuffer!Come and enjoy the beautiful work of Chickasaw Composer, Brandi Berry Benson, and happy upcoming holidays to all! Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodct All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
According to Statistica, “The child abuse rate in the United States is highest among American Indian or Alaska Native victims with a rate of 15.2 cases per 1,000 children. It is most common among children between two to five years of age.” Now imagine that child being brave enough to come forward to share about her abuse. The process from this point is typically strenuous. Both law enforcement and Child Protection Services conduct separate investigations, which entails the child repeating her trauma multiple times. Depending on her situation, she may be passed around between foster homes, or she could be placed back into a situation where she has to be around her perpetrator again. And not only could this child fail to receive the emotional and psychological support she needs, but the abuse she suffered will most likely cause negative ongoing affects throughout her life. There has to be a better way. And there is! Choctaw Nation’s Coordinated Response to Child Maltreatment via their leading Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT), is the first tribal MDT in the state of Oklahoma and the results are already highly impactful. My guests, Gina South (Juvenile Division Chief and Assistant Prosecuting Attorney) and Kari Hurst (MTD Coordinator) from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma share with us about:•How the MDT program is serving, protecting and saving the children of the Choctaw Nation•You’ve heard of McGirt vs. Oklahoma, Gina tells us about the Sizemore decision as well•Gina’s ancestral storiesAlso, check out the beautiful ribbon skirts that Gina makes – they’d make wonderful holiday or birthday gifts! https://tinyurl.com/4d4kn23f Yakoke to these ladies and to the entire Multi-Disciplinary Teams at Choctaw Nation (law enforcement, medical teams, prosecutors, behavioral health experts, forensic interviewers, therapists, and victim advocates) who are advocating for our precious children!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 1 of 2Imagine an afterlife where your people sing beautiful “bird songs” to you, as you venture into the next world to comfort you along your journey. And imagine over the decades, these beautiful bird songs – the songs of the Kumeyaay people – slowly drifting away, at risk to be forgotten over time.My guest, Chris Alvarado, San Pasqual iPai Kumeyaay Nation and Founder, and President of The Yumans, spent many years searching for old recordings of elders singing these ancient songs. And by nothing short of a miracle, he finally discovered these precious recordings. And you won’t believe how he found them!Chris was compelled to share, rather than withhold these sacred songs. And now he’s here to sing these pieces for us today, and he has also provided a complimentary curriculum so that you too can hear and learn about them! In this episode, you’ll also learn about:•Kumeyaay culture, ancient games like peon, dances and the origination of the bird songs•Learn about the patterns of the bird songs and the instruments used•The reservation where Chris grew up•The history of the Yumans and how they won California for America by fighting MexicoI highly recommend watching this episode on YouTube since Chris shares visuals throughout the conversation. Check out Chris’ Yumans website, and enjoy learning about the Bird Songs, Kumeyaay language, training, quizzes at NO CHARGE! https://theyumans.com/Learn more about the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians: https://www.sanpasqualbandofmissionindians.org/ Enjoy!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 2 of 2Imagine an afterlife where your people sing beautiful “bird songs” to you, as you venture into the next world to comfort you along your journey. And imagine over the decades, these beautiful bird songs – the songs of the Kumeyaay people – slowly drifting away, at risk to be forgotten over time.My guest, Chris Alvarado, San Pasqual iPai Kumeyaay Nation and Founder, and President of The Yumans, spent many years searching for old recordings of elders singing these ancient songs. And by nothing short of a miracle, he finally discovered these precious recordings. And you won’t believe how he found them!Chris was compelled to share, rather than withhold these sacred songs. And now he’s here to sing these pieces for us today, and he has also provided a complimentary curriculum so that you too can hear and learn about them! In this episode, you’ll also learn about:•Kumeyaay culture, ancient games like peon, dances and the origination of the bird songs•Learn about the patterns of the bird songs and the instruments used•The reservation where Chris grew up•The history of the Yumans and how they won California for America by fighting MexicoI highly recommend watching this episode on YouTube since Chris shares visuals throughout the conversation. Check out Chris’ Yumans website, and enjoy learning about the Bird Songs, Kumeyaay language, training, quizzes at NO CHARGE! https://theyumans.com/Learn more about the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians: https://www.sanpasqualbandofmissionindians.org/ Enjoy!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 2 of 2At one time, they inhabited 40,000 square miles within the Appalachian Mountains. But in 1835, 12,000 of their people were gathered and placed into stockades until it was time for their removal away from their homelands. The journey took 6 to 7 months, killing 2,000 of their people on what is now termed “The Trail of Tears”.Today, they are the largest tribe in the United States, with 440,000 members. They are the Cherokee people, and their endurance and strength continues on today. Here to talk with us is my guest, Jack Baker, a Cherokee and President of the Board of the National Trail of Tears Association, past president of the Oklahoma Historical Society board, past board member of the Cherokee National Historical Society, and more. Jack’s extensive Cherokee research for over forty years resulted in authoring various articles, editing books on Cherokee history, and assisting with various documentaries on Cherokee history.Learn more in this episode about: •The history of the Cherokee •The Trail of Tears and the graves left along the way•Jack’s own ancestral stories•Growing up with no electricity on his grandad’s Cherokee allotment in Oklahoma•How his 2-room school had only 16 students•Our “geeking out” over our love of research•Jack’s library with 700 books related to the Cherokee•Stories of his “guerilla warfare” research and hanging out in the archives with Angie Debo and Rella Looney (Rella manually indexed all the archives)! By the way, Jack references a book that you can see on the video on YouTube, but if you’re listening only, the book referenced is “The Journal of Reverend Daniel S. Butrick, Cherokee Removal”. May we never forget the Cherokee, the Trail of Tears, and the resilience of our ancestors. Wado, Jack for your many years of research and for sharing your expertise with us! Learn more about the National Trail of Tears Association here: https://nationaltota.com/Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 1 of 2At one time, they inhabited 40,000 square miles within the Appalachian Mountains. But in 1835, 12,000 of their people were gathered and placed into stockades until it was time for their removal away from their homelands. The journey took 6 to 7 months, killing 2,000 of their people on what is now termed “The Trail of Tears”.Today, they are the largest tribe in the United States, with 440,000 members. They are the Cherokee people, and their endurance and strength continues on today. Here to talk with us is my guest, Jack Baker, a Cherokee and President of the Board of the National Trail of Tears Association, past president of the Oklahoma Historical Society board, past board member of the Cherokee National Historical Society, and more. Jack’s extensive Cherokee research for over forty years resulted in authoring various articles, editing books on Cherokee history, and assisting with various documentaries on Cherokee history.Learn more in this episode about: •The history of the Cherokee •The Trail of Tears and the graves left along the way•Jack’s own ancestral stories•Growing up with no electricity on his grandad’s Cherokee allotment in Oklahoma•How his 2-room school had only 16 students•Our “geeking out” over our love of research•Jack’s library with 700 books related to the Cherokee•Stories of his “guerilla warfare” research and hanging out in the archives with Angie Debo and Rella Looney (Rella manually indexed all the archives)! By the way, Jack references a book that you can see on the video on YouTube, but if you’re listening only, the book referenced is “The Journal of Reverend Daniel S. Butrick, Cherokee Removal”. May we never forget the Cherokee, the Trail of Tears, and the resilience of our ancestors. Wado, Jack for your many years of research and for sharing your expertise with us! Learn more about the National Trail of Tears Association here: https://nationaltota.com/Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
It’s one of the largest all-Native run events in the nation - it’s Anadarko, Oklahoma’s 88th Annual American Indian Exposition, August 2nd-5th, 2023 and YOU are invited!
Check out the event’s Facebook here Anadarko Indian Exposition 1935: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066746045395&sk=photos
In this episode, I speak with Expo leaders, Tanner Mahseet (Apache), President and Bambi Allen (Kiowa), Secretary about: • The history of Anadarko, where more American Indians reside per capita than anywhere in the world. • The history of the Expo itself, the famous people in the Expo parade over the years. • What the Expo means to our Plains Tribes and other tribes.
Come join us for: • Our parade (August 2nd and 5th at 10:00 am in downtown Anadarko) • The fair, which includes dancing (gourd dance, fire dancing, traditional, fancy dance, northern), powwows, archery competitions, Indian relay horse racing, art, jewelry, FRYBREAD!, • This year’s attending “Indian of the Year” – Lane Factor from FX’s Reservation Dogs! • The always-anticipated mud men! • The Anadarko Chamber of Commerce will also have a town-wide event featuring live bands, drinks on the patios of the streets and more • McKee’s Indian Store’s grand re-opening!
Parade Tribal Lineup: Caddo, Fort Sill Apache, Osage, Delaware, Ponca, Wichita, Pawnee, Kiowa, Apache, Comanche, Cheyenne & Arapaho, Iowa, Sac & Fox, Otoe Missouri
You’ll also hear some tips on: • What to wear • Where to park • Powwow etiquette • Cost: there’s no charge for the parade, nor for the fair (there is an entry fee for the horse racing and powwow) • Where to stay (Chickasha, Lawton and camping at the fairgrounds) • Historical and interesting places to visit while in Anadarko, such as the Southern Plains Indian Museum and more!
This event is for ALL so please join us and I hope to see you there!
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
It’s STORY TIME, y’all! This lengthy 3-part series with Author, W. Michael Farmer is perfect to tune into while you’re taking a road trip or working in the yard or just listening when you can.
Welcome to part 3 of this episode with Author, W. Michael Farmer about the story of the Mescalero Apache, Yellow Boy.
Listeners, please be aware that today’s episode does include violent content, so discretion is advised.
This historical fiction trilogy isn’t just the story of Yellow Boy himself. It’s also a view into the lives and culture of the Mescalero Apache during a time in the late 1800s when the Apache were forced to make way for the infiltrating “White Eyes” or the non-Native settlers of the time.
In parts 1 and 2, we walked through the books, “Killer of Witches” and “Blood of the Devil”.
And now listeners, get ready for “The Last Warrior”, the continuation of this powerful story of the Mescalero Apache who are fighting for survival against determined ignorance from autocratic government overseers, countering attacks from those misusing their supernatural powers, and choosing sides in the White Eye conflicts!
Check out “The Last Warrior” and other W. Michael Farmer books here: Website: https://wmichaelfarmer.com/books/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wmichael.farmer
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
It’s STORY TIME, y’all! This lengthy 3-part series with Author, W. Michael Farmer is perfect to tune into while you’re taking a road trip or working in the yard or just listening when you can.
Welcome to part 2 of this episode with Author, W. Michael Farmer about the story of the Mescalero Apache, Yellow Boy.
Listeners, please be aware that today’s episode does include violent content, so discretion is advised.
This historical fiction trilogy isn’t just the story of Yellow Boy himself. It’s also a view into the lives and culture of the Mescalero Apache during a time in the late 1800s when the Apache were forced to make way for the infiltrating “White Eyes” or the non-Native settlers of the time.
We left off in book 1 with Yellow Boy determined to avenge his father and others in the tribe who had been brutally murdered by the Witch Sangre del Diablo – a Mexican-Comanche with a taste for spilling the blood of the Apache and trading in their scalps for Nakai-yi (or Mexican) gold from the White Eyes.
You’ll be on the edge of your seat as we share the story, “Blood of the Devil, The Life and Times of Yellow Boy, Mescalero Apache, Book 2” by W. Michael Farmer!
Check out “Blood of the Devil” and other W. Michael Farmer books here: Website: https://wmichaelfarmer.com/books/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wmichael.farmer
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
It’s STORY TIME, y’all! This lengthy 3-part series with Author, W. Michael Farmer is perfect to tune into while you’re taking a road trip or working in the yard or just listening when you can.
“You are stronger than we. We have fought you so long as we had rifles and powder, but your arms are better than ours. Give us like weapons and turn us loose, we will fight you again; but we are worn-out; we have no more heart; we have no provisions, no means to live; your troops are everywhere; our springs and waterholes are either occupied or overlooked by your young men. You have driven us from our last and best stronghold, and we have no more heart. Do with as may seem good to you, but do not forget we are men and braves.” These were the words of Mescalero Chief, Cadete to General Carlton in 1863.
In Season 3, episode 8, my guest, W. Michael Farmer and I talked through the life and times of the great warrior, Geronimo. And over the next 3 episodes, Michael and I will walk through his 3-part book series based on the life of an Apache named Yellow Boy, starting with, “Killer of Witches, The Life and Times of Yellow Boy, Mescalero Apache”. Because Michael has completed extensive research on the Apache, you’ll also learn a great deal about the Mescalero Apache way of life.
A disclaimer…these books and episodes do contain realistic depictions of historic actions and events that do include violence, so listener discretion is advised.
This is a story that’s considered truth told along with fiction in a time when the Apache way of life was being threatened by the overtaking of Americans who were migrating west, and the terrors on the dark side in this life, witches and other evil spirits in the flesh, that still had to be destroyed to enter the next life unscathed.
Check out “Killer of Witches” and other W. Michael Farmer books here: Website: https://wmichaelfarmer.com/books/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wmichael.farmer
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Since I launched Native ChocTalk, my goal was and still is “preservation” – the preservation of our ancestral stories, history, traditions and culture. I encourage every age group to do so!
Join me in supporting young Native Comedian and Photographer, Aaliyah (Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas) and her mamma (also a Photographer), Victoria (Choctaw). Young Aaliyah shares not only about her endeavors in comedy, but she also recorded with me to preserve information about her tribe and the memories of her grandpa.
In this episode, you’ll learn about: • Aaliyah’s beloved grandpa (her “ahwo”), the late Chief Herbert Glenn Johnson who inspired her comedy • Her grandpa’s love of watermelon, bingo and gospel music (and how he used to call her chickenhawk) • The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the swan dance, and the basket dance • Aaliyah’s world of homeschooling (which I connected with since I was also homeschooled) • How a wig resulted in Aaliyah’s aliases/characters • Aaliyah’s list of favorite comedians, such The 1491s • Victoria and Aaliyah’s powwow princess stories • Victoria’s stories of her ancestors
Check out Victoria and Aaliya here:
A sample of Aaliya’s comedy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZDcy7CUx40 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rolandajnative8609 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nativerolanda https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087285947666
Victoria’s Skye Breeze Photography: 936-933-5558 Instagram: @skyebreeze82
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I hope you’ll enjoy part 2 of 2 of my interview with Carolee Maxwell!
She held the paperwork in her hand, a tissue in the other. This information sat in a folder that hadn’t been opened since 1917. Its contents would unlock the answers to a past long gone, but not forgotten. And it would forever change the way she looked at the life of her grandpa – her beloved Papa.
Meet Carolee Maxwell, Chickasaw & Choctaw Author of “Touched by Greatness, from Indian Territory to the Ivy League”, the true story of her Papa, Charles Watson McGilberry.
Charles was unknowingly part of an “experiment” in which Native American boys were the recipients of a plan to determine if they could be educated and groomed for the Ivy Leagues. Did Charles complete his Ivy League prep school education at Mercersburg Academy? And did he make it to the Ivy League?
In these episodes, you’ll also hear about: • The love story of Charles and Vivian • Charles’ friendship with John Phillips Souza • Charles’ journey from Jones Academy to Chilocco Indian School to Mercersburg & beyond • The backstory of the PGA (Professional Golfers Association) and Macy’s Dept Store • An ironic twist of fate in which one of my ancestors was the reason for Charles’ father to be imprisoned • Carolee’s beloved late husband, S. Wayne Maxwell with whom she co-authored the book
And…see if you can spot our bloopers. Hint: It has to do with the crows.
You’ll enjoy this heartwarming and historical book, “Touched by Greatness”. Find it at: Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/35x2fd3t Barnes & Noble: https://tinyurl.com/47w8vdex
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
PART 1 of 2
She held the paperwork in her hand, a tissue in the other. The information had sat in a folder, unopened since 1917. Its contents would unlock the answers to a past long gone, but not forgotten. And it would forever change the way she looked at the life of her grandpa – her beloved Papa.
Meet Carolee Maxwell, Chickasaw & Choctaw Author of “Touched by Greatness, from Indian Territory to the Ivy League”, the true story of her Papa, Charles Watson McGilberry.
Charles was unknowingly part of an “experiment” in which Native American boys were the recipients of a plan to determine if they could be educated and groomed for the Ivy Leagues. Did Charles complete his Ivy League prep school education at Mercersburg Academy? And did he make it to the Ivy League?
In these episodes, you’ll also hear about: • The love story of Charles and Vivian • Charles’ friendship with John Phillips Souza • Charles’ journey from Jones Academy to Chilocco Indian School to Mercersburg & beyond • The backstory of the PGA (Professional Golfers Association) and Macy’s Dept Store • An ironic twist of fate in which one of my ancestors was the reason for Charles’ father to be imprisoned • Carolee’s beloved late husband, S. Wayne Maxwell with whom she co-authored the book
And…see if you can spot our bloopers. Hint: It has to do with the crows.
You’ll enjoy this heartwarming and historical book, “Touched by Greatness”. Find it at: Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/35x2fd3t Barnes & Noble: https://tinyurl.com/47w8vdex
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Ovid Vickers, the late English instructor from Decatur, Mississippi, wrote, “When a list of influential Choctaw people is compiled, Simpson Tubby…preacher, teacher, and storyteller, will without a question be among them.” Steven Oklatubbee, the fifth great grandson of the great Choctaw Chief, Mushulatubbee, spoke to us in Season 2 about his ancestral stories. And now he’s here to share the fascinating story about another of his ancestors, Simpson Tubby, based on a paper he wrote titled, “Simpson Tubby: A Voice for God and His Choctaw People.” We’ll also cover topics such as:•Thoughts around being mixed blood Native•The effects of Jim Crow laws and how those played into issuing blood quantum•The treatment of Choctaws who stayed behind in Mississippi•Some sad news about one of Steven’s goats (but also some good news ahead) By the way, Steven also has his own podcast called Anumpa Nan Anoli – check it out on Spotify, y’all! https://open.spotify.com/show/2eWrrTS2KDhdDJbdSJW9aX Yakoke, Steven for joining me and God bless! Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
On the beautiful island of Parksville, on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking sandy beaches and the magnificent Insular Mountains.You’ll also find a fierce bear hunter named Naukwe (Noon Day Woman), who I know as Brittney Musgrave. But Brittney, who is Wasauksing, Ojibway and Cree, doesn’t hunt for sport. She, like her ancestors before her, utilizes many parts of the bear for good use, including making bear grease into a healing treatment for herself and others. You’ll hear from Brittney and her husband, Taylor (Haiwatha First Nation) about:•The benefits of bear grease (including healing for skin rashes, promoting hair growth and more)•Okwarì;Kowà Supplies which offers bear grease, cedar, sweetgrass and more•Brittney’s black bear hunts with a compound bow in Ontario (their treaty area) •Was Brittney actually charged by a bear once? You’ll just have to listen to find out!•How one transports a bear back to their vehicle – one of the answers may surprise youOkwarì;Kowà is pronounced “ah-gwari-gowa” and means “big bear” Yakoke, Brittney and Taylor for sharing about your adventurous world there in Canada and the good healing agents you’re making for others!Check out Okwarì;Kowà Supplies here: https://www.facebook.com/OkwariKowaSuppliesNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Since season 2, I’ve had the pleasure of following the journey of Shell Shaker, a Chickasaw Opera by Composer, Jerod Impichchaachaaha Tate. This opera is still being composed, and will be the very first of its kind. Even the libretto is in Chickasaw, and every inch of the production, composition, costuming, etc. is led by Native Americans. The premier date has been changed and the new date will be announced soon. I hope you’ll join me at the premier!After I interviewed Jerod Impichchaachaaha Tate, I then met with the ever-talented, Kirsten Kunkle and Kate Morton (season 3, episode 11) who will perform leading roles in the opera. Now, meet Mark Billy - a Choctaw baritone who will also star in the opera and who took some time out of his performance schedule to visit with me. In this episode, we discussed:•His fascinating role in Shell Shaker•What it means to be a Verdi Baritone •Our view on small towns and Wal-Marts •His exciting new performance announcement!•A harrowing health scare that resulted in Mark losing a year of his lifeBy the way, we know there are a lot of Choctaws out there with the last name Billy. Feel free to give us a shout if you’re a Billy and want to connect with Mark – he’d love to hear from you!This unprecedented opera will be a pivotal moment in the Native American arts. I hope you’ll join me in supporting these artists, this composer, and their upcoming performances!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“What might the first World Indigenous Skyworld Space Stations look like? We think in circles with no beginning or end. We go into space as a human right and right of self-determination. We go into space for development, exploration, and cultural preservation.” These are the words and the vision of my guest, Dan Hawk of the Oneida Nation, and Principal Scientist at United First Nations Planetary Defense who answers the question for me, “Why should Native Americans go into space?” The answer goes well beyond going to the moon and to Mars and beyond. This is about helping national security and all Indigenous populations. A program for Native Americans in space is the way into space for other communities as well. And Dan is pioneering the way for such a program for our Indigenous people. Today, you’ll hear from Dan about:•Who owns space•The Oneida people •Stories of Dan’s ancestors •What is “space sovereignty”•United First Nations Planetary Defense •Growing up on the Oneida Reservation in Wisconsin •A view of the dust bowl you may not have heard about•The story about what inspired Dan to go into his profession •Dan’s work with NASA, his support of the Montana Space Grant, and more •The story of the Golden Eagle Rocket that’s now in the Smithsonian institute •How an American Indian space program can help Missing & Murdered Indigenous PeopleCheck out these links:•BisonSat - Kootenai College: https://cubesat.skc.edu •Artemis Space Program: https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/ •United First Nations Planetary Defense: https://ufnpd.wordpress.com •AISES - American Indian Science and Engineering Society: https://www.aises.org•Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority: https://airspaceportok.com Yakoke, Dan for your commitment to sovereignty for Native Americans beyond the boundaries of earth. Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I’m incredibly proud to be a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. But I’m even prouder when I reach out to our Chief and he’s willing to share with us about the latest goals and the future of our tribe!Chief Gary Batton and I met in Hugo, Oklahoma to talk about:•This year’s election•Future plans for the tribe•Upcoming capital projects•Choctaw Nation’s Cultural goals•Conversations with Governor Stitt•The LEAP program (lease to purchase)•The latest on the aftermath of McGirt vs Oklahoma •The excitement & info around the upcoming new Choctaw Landing gaming resort in Hochatown•I asked how he does it all, being constantly on the go (you’ll be interested to hear his answer when I asked how many hours of sleep he actually gets!) Yakoke, Chief for being transparent and forthright with us. We appreciate your many hard hours and care and concern for the Choctaw people. God bless! Link to the LEAP program: https://www.choctawnation.com/services/?_sft_category=housing Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In season 2, episode 18, I got together with Megan Baker from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Historic Preservation Department. We talked through her extensive work in tracing the history of our Choctaw people, decade by decade, in monthly articles of the Iti Fabvssa in our Choctaw paper called Biskinik. Back by popular demand, and here to share more insights about our Choctaw history - welcome back Megan!We left off last time in the 1900s at a time when President Theodore Roosevelt made it known that Oklahoma and Indian Territories would enter the Union as a single state (rather than two), as had been proposed. With this, Indian Territory faced a future in which they would be enjoined with Oklahoma Territory. The next few decades were crucial. You’ve got statehood and life for the Choctaw after land allotments, a fight against termination of sovereignty and more.You’ll also hear more about:•Megan playing stickball in front of the Eifel Tower. What? Yep! •What homestead vs. surplus meant, land restrictions, per capita payments, guardians, land allotments, the Indian New Deal, the Indian Welfare Act, taxation and more•The Oklahoma Land Run•Sonic Drive-In, and how their headquarters being in Oklahoma is significant to us Okies•Chief Belvin (bless his heart)•Why Carl Albert was underestimated (and why Megan is a nerd and is his #1 fan)•The newsletter called “Hello Choctaw” and how it helped to maintain Choctaw sovereignty•The Bingo Palace (and should Megan and Rachael start their own bingo hall?)•The history of gaming in Choctaw nationYakoke, Megan for your expertise, and I’ll be gathering some materials in case you’d like to open that bingo hall with me!Check out Choctaw Nation’s Biskinik paper online where you can find the Iti Fabvssa articles that feature Megan and other wonderful Choctaw Nation Writers at: https://www.choctawnation.com/biskinik-archives/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I grew up in Hog Creek, which is approximately 5 mile west of Anadarko, Oklahoma. This is a virtually unknown historical place to the general public, but to the locals, it’s filled with Kiowa history. Among many of those in the area whose ancestors roamed these lands is a well-known, tight-knit and beloved family - the Wares.In this episode, I had a casual visit with our family friend, Lance Ware (Kiowa) and we enjoyed discussing:•His work as a wild land firefighter, working amongst several tribes•Ware’s Chapel and cemetery •How Lance is one of 11 children•His experience with fancy dancing•The singing and drumming of the Oh ho ma•The Ware family today, and those we’ve lost•Natives in Hollywood, including Leonard Nimoy who played a Chief (true story!)•His dad, Lehman Ware’s archery skills and how he may or may not have practiced in the houseWe also talked about the American Indian Expo, Anadarko, Oklahoma:•1950 video of the Expo in 1950 (Oklahoma Historical Society): https://tinyurl.com/3ens63k9 •I hear the Expo will take place on August 2-5, 2023. I’ll be there, will you? Be sure to follow the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/AmericianIndianExposition •By the way, Lance was one of the mud men one year! This time that Lance and I had together is an example of the preservation that can be done in any family - talking about growing up, the things that went on in the town, interesting and entertaining family stories, and so on. I encourage you to turn on your recorder sometime and capture these casual conversations with your family too!In memory of: Lehman Keith Ware, February 1941-2017 and Carol Jean Ware, March 1941-2023Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Scalding hot rocks were placed in the center of the dirt floor. Water was poured onto the rocks, inviting a heavy steam that permeated throughout, increasing our heart rates, and causing a profuse sweat.We came for a cleansing of our bodies, minds and souls, the rejuvenation of our spirits, and a deeper connection with our Creator. This was a Christian-based sweat, and we prayed about each other’s needs and requests throughout the evening. These were just of few of my experiences during the sweat lodge I joined at my guest, Weylin Thompson’s house a couple years back.According to choctawschool.com, “…the sweat lodge has been known by several different Choctaw names including ‘anuka,’ meaning ‘the inside,’ and ‘alaksha,’ meaning ‘a place of sweating’. The process of using heat on the body itself is sometimes referred to as ‘shila,’ ‘to bake.’”To know Weylin today, you’d never sense the pain he faced in the past, his eventual turn to substance abuse and his time in jail. I was grateful that Weylin shared how he turned his life around and is now helping others through sweat lodges and drum circle meetings. In this episode, you’ll hear his story, and about the history, spiritual significance, and healing of sweat lodges, and more.If you’re ever near Madill, Oklahoma, Weylin and his wonderful wife, Sharon invite you to join them at their healing sweat lodge. You don’t have to be native to join them in Madill, which is near Fort Washita (near where our Choctaw ancestors came during the removal on the Trail of Tears). All are welcome!Weylin shared some encouraging words of wisdom for us: “You can’t change the past, but you can change the path you’re on.” If you’re struggling with addiction or are just looking for some encouragement, please don’t hesitate to email Weylin at thompsonweylin7@gmail.com.Yakoke, Weylin and may God bless you.Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcastAll Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In this 3rd and final part of this episode with my guest, Dodie Rogers (Choctaw), adopted daughter of the legendary “King of the Cowboys”, Roy Rogers (also Choctaw) and his talented wife, Dale Evans, you’ll hear about:Roy Rogers’ horse, Trigger who knew 150 tricks and starred in over 100 movies!What it was like to grow up with a large family and lots of animals on the Evans farmThose last precious moments with Roy and Dale before they passed awayWhat’s next for the Rogers kidsAlthough Roy and Dale Rogers have passed on, Dodie and her siblings continue to share their memories and to create their own stories, carrying with them the joy, faith, and strength they were taught in their loving upbringing.Yakoke, Dodie for inspiring us - blessings to you and your family!Special thanks to the Anadarko Heritage Museum for providing some photos of Roy, Dale and Dodie Rogers and their visit to Anadarko!Check Out:Cheryl Rogers: https://www.cherylrogers.com/Sons of the Pioneers: https://sonsofthepioneers.org/Anadarko Indian Expo: https://www.facebook.com/AmericianIndianExpositionNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcastAll Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/#dodierogers #choctawnationofoklahoma #royrogers #daleevansrogers #dalerogers #happytrailstoyou #anadarko #anadarkooklahoma #cityofanadarko #saveouranadarkoheritagemuseum #anadarkoheritagemuseum #adravance#nativechoctalkpodcast #nativechoctalk #rachaelellenyoungman #rachaelyoungman #Choctaw #chahta #nativeamerican #AmericanIndian #nativepodcast
Have you ever heard the famous song, “Happy Trails to You”? Do you know who wrote and performed it?In part one of this episode, we met the lovely Dodie Rogers (Choctaw), adopted daughter of the legendary “King of the Cowboys”, Roy Rogers (also Choctaw) and his talented wife, Dale Evans, who wrote the aforementioned song. Together they performed “Happy Trails to You” many times over. Even to this day, some of the younger generations are familiar with the piece – and thus the Rogers legend lives on.Here in Part 2, Dodie continues to share the inspiring, yet heartbreaking story of the Rogers family – a family filled with love bursting at the seams, breaking social norms, changing perspectives on autism, and paving the way for future adoptive families. You may need to grab your Kleenex box for this one, because as you’ll hear, this family faced one loss after another. And yet, their faith in God remained strong, while their family drew closer through every single challenge. You’ll also hear about:•Roy and Dale’s 9 children and their interesting stories•The inspiring, yet humorous story about how Dodie was adopted •The Chicki Wicki Choctaw song, written for Dodie by her mom (you’ll also get to hear the song)•My own personal theory about why Dale started pushing Dodie to learn more about her heritageStay tuned for part 3 coming up next!Special thanks to Anadarko Heritage Museum for pulling some photos of Roy, Dale and Dodie Rogers and their visit to Anadarko!Check Out: Cheryl Rogers: https://www.cherylrogers.com/ Sons of the Pioneers: https://sonsofthepioneers.org/ Anadarko Indian Expo: https://www.facebook.com/AmericianIndianExposition Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/#dodierogers #choctawnationofoklahoma #royrogers #daleevansrogers #dalerogers #happytrailstoyou #anadarko #anadarkooklahoma #cityofanadarko #saveouranadarkoheritagemuseum #anadarkoheritagemuseum #adravance#nativechoctalkpodcast #nativechoctalk #rachaelellenyoungman #rachaelyoungman #Choctaw #chahta #nativeamerican #AmericanIndian #nativepodcast
The town: Anadarko, Oklahoma. The year: 1967. Hundreds of onlookers, both locals and those from elsewhere (even from around the world) lined the streets of the little town.The 36th annual Indian Expo was to kick off as usual, with a parade featuring Kiowa, Comanche, Apache, Fort Sill Apache, Ponca, Pawnee, Delaware, Cheyenne, Arapaho Caddo, Osage, Sac, Fox, Otoe-Missouri, Wichita, and up to 50 other tribes proudly singing, drumming and dancing their way in their regalia down Main Street.As every year, a Native celebrity was selected as “Indian of the Year” and in 1967, the Choctaw “King of the Cowboys”, Roy Rogers was the grateful recipient. There he rode, cowboy hat and all, in a convertible, along with his cowgirl wife, Dale Evans adorned in an apple-print dress. Seated between the two was a young girl, also wearing a dress with apple print.The girl’s name was Mary Little Doe or “Dodie” for short, and I had the honor of visiting with Dodie (Choctaw) to hear her story in this 3-part series. Listeners, this is one you do not want to miss!In this episode, you’ll hear about:The surprising story of Dale Evans’ firstborn sonRoy Rogers and Dale Evans - their early life, careers, heartbreak in the love department prior to meeting each other, and finally their love storyRoy Rogers’ trips to children’s hospitals with his horse, Trigger who would climb the stairs to see the kidsThe hilarious story of Roy and Dale’s wedding in OklahomaAnadarko, Ok (my hometown) and Horace Poolaw and Robert Goombi Jr’s connection to Dodie and her parentsStay tuned for parts 2 and 3 coming up next!Check Out:Cheryl Rogers: https://www.cherylrogers.com/Sons of the Pioneers: https://sonsofthepioneers.org/Anadarko Indian Expo: https://www.facebook.com/AmericianIndianExpositionNative ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcastAll Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/#dodierogers #choctawnationofoklahoma #royrogers #daleevansrogers #dalerogers #happytrailstoyou #anadarko #anadarkooklahoma #anadarkoheritagemuseum #saveouranadarkoheritagemuseum #adravance#nativechoctalkpodcast #nativechoctalk #rachaelellenyoungman #rachaelyoungman #Choctaw #chahta #nativeamerican #AmericanIndian #nativepodcast
Meet Linda Cooley (Yurok tribe), CEO of Mad River Brewing Company in beautiful Blue Lake, California! And look out, world – because this American Indian CEO is out to help her tribe and the planet too.After profitability, Linda set out to put a portion of Mad River Brewing funds to good use by helping her Yurok Nation and the land in the area. For instance, their Undammed Seltzer promotes the removal of dams in Native country. This effort resulted in the largest undamming in history, with hopes of restoring the salmon spawning grounds back to their original glory. Mad River also partners with California State Parks for good causes so take a listen to hear more!We all know there is great sensitivity around substance abuse in our Native American population, and I took this factor into consideration when contemplating this episode. Linda herself experienced the detrimental effects of her father’s addiction, and she determined to utilize her work in the beverage industry to bring awareness to the topic, while also doing good for her tribe and community.In this episode, you’ll also hear about:•Linda’s family and ancestral stories•How Linda got started in the industry•Tourism being an economic driver in Native country•The Yurok tribe and the challenges the brewery is trying to help solve•Mad River Brewing’s intertribal partnerships•Linda’s first pitch with Mad River Brewery’s partner, the San Francisco Giants •The brewery’s gold-winning brewsMad River Brewing is family and dog-friendly (yay!), has live music and some of the best BBQ on the planet!Linda is on a mission to do good in an unexpected way, with results that are actually working. Her strong leadership skills, determination to make change, and care for her tribe and surroundings is a legacy many can only hope to leave behind. Yakoke, Linda for all you’re doing and for making Indian country proud – cheers to you!Please consider supporting Mad River Brewing by liking and sharing their page at: https://www.facebook.com/madriverbrewing Website: https://www.madriverbrewing.com/. Special thanks to Justin Chester of @tepacompanies for the introduction!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
This is the story of the resurrection of a tribe who had lost its sovereignty and ultimately, its hope. And it’s the story of a retired elder who had a vision and devoted his remaining years to bringing the tribe back to its glory. It’s also the story of a young new Chairman who led a tribe from corrupt and chaotic leadership to flourishment and victory.Today, you’ll hear the inspiring story of Andrew (Dru) Alejandre, Tribal Chairman of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki, and Board Chairman of Tepa LLC. (“Chairman” to the Paskenta is equivalent to the title, “Chief” in other tribes.)In this episode you’ll hear about: •Chairman Dru’s ancestor, Andrew Freeman, and listen to a fascinating recording of him speaking in his Nomlaki tongue •The 300-member Paskenta band of Nomlaki Indians and their reservation in Corning, California•Paskenta Brewery and Distillery in the Rolling Hills Casino•The unlawful termination of the tribe and its restoration in 1994, due to the vision and determination of Chairman Dru’s grandpa, Everett Freeman – spoiler alert, Indian taco sales were a contributor to the cause•How Chairman Dru set out to bring corrupt tribal leaders to justice. We’re talking a story of private jets and lavish trips with funds stolen from the tribe, culminating to a cyber-attack on the casinos and the need for armed guards – stuff you typically only see in the movies.•The tremendous growth of tribal commerce now that the proper leadership is in place. And speaking of - shout out to Justin Chester of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians-owned Tepa Companies, who was instrumental in introducing me to Chairman Dru. Yakoke, Justin! Tepa provides construction, engineering, environmental technology and more. Preference is given to American Indian applications, so check them out! @tepacompanies https://www.tepa.com/ Chairman Dru honors his grandpa, Everett Freeman’s legacy by leading with wisdom and strength, while also exemplifying humility. Here is a leader that should not be underestimated. And here is a tribe whose sovereignty was regained and whose determination will not be shaken. Not bad for a man with a vision, and an Indian taco sale or two that helped make it all happen. Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/paskentabandofnomlakiindians/photos Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“I tossed my hair, my braids glowing in the sunlight. I walked my horse forward, recalling Papa’s words, often said in a most authoritative tone. ‘Get off that pony and walk in the wildflowers, Little Bird. Touch the flowers and feel their petals. They are soft, like feathers. Touch the bark of the trees. Their bark runs in circles, like our lives. The tree grows roots and spreads leaves over the earth. The lines of the bark tell many stories of our ancestors. It is a time for you to remember and enjoy the beauties of God’s land. Get off your horse, Little Bird.’ I would be mesmerized by his words. I looked up to see my three favorite crows on a branch above. They took off, leading the way home. Their feathers glistened in the sun, like my hair.” In today’s episode, you’ll hear the true story of Esther McLish, told by Chickasaw/Choctaw/Cherokee Author, Mary Ruth Barnes from her award-winning book, “Little Bird”. I was so intrigued by this story that I stayed up nearly all night to finish it – it truly is a must-read!Check out this beautiful Little Bird trailer: https://mbarnes.faso.com/video/7545 You’ll hear about Esther’s relationship with the crows that always seemed to have a message for her, the encounters with the Comanches who lived in Reck, how Esther would travel multiple times to challenge the Dawes Commission, and her heartbreaking journey of much loss, while maintaining her enduring strength and spirit. Mary Ruth also shares with us the story of the pecan trees on her property, what Chihawa lowa means, and the inside scoop of her ancestral stories. “In the light of the moon our silent ancestors walked, moving among us, giving us hope and truth. The truth of their ancient promise is not made with their words, but with the lives of those who have experienced the past. Please keep researching.” Those were Mary Ruth’s beautiful words at the end of our visit, and I couldn’t agree more. Rumor also has it there’s a sequel coming out, so as for me, I’ll be ready for another all-nighter to read more about Esther’s life! Check out “Little Bird” at: Chickasaw Press: https://chickasawpress.com/Books/Little-Bird.aspx Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/2sek8xd8 And at First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City! Mary Ruth’s Website: https://www.maryruthbarnes.com/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/mary.ruth.barnes Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“Indian Makes Attempt to Kill”. That’s the newspaper article heading I mentioned a few years back in the Facebook group, “Indian Territory and Oklahoma History” in order to share about my Uncle Cicero Coley shooting through the window of his white guardian’s house in an attempt to kill him for stealing his land allotments. I had come to what I thought was the end of my years of research about my Coley family members and I hoped that perhaps this last-ditch attempt might spur some interest. Wouldn’t you know, it worked! A distant cousin of mine reached out to me and introduced me to another cousin, uncovering some missing pieces to my family story puzzle.(I’m still looking for more Coley family members so if you know of any Choctaw Coleys, please reach out to me!)Tracing lineage and finding the history and stories of our American Indian ancestors is quite the challenge. But today my guest is here to bring you (and me) some hope. Meet my guest, Gwen Takes Horse, a Genealogist at Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma who’s here to help us understand how to trace our Native roots!The information Gwen shares is not just for Choctaws – it can apply to several other tribes. And she also has some good tips for us in general that can apply to anyone.Take a listen, y’all and feel free to share your family stories with us if you’d like – we love to hear them!If you’re Choctaw, the Choctaw Nation Genealogy Department can be reached by emailing genealogy@choctawnation.com or 800-522-6170 (ask for the Genealogy Department).Check out the group I mention in the episode: Indian Territory and Early Oklahoma History, 1800 - 1957: https://www.facebook.com/groups/687213838053719 Tracing your Native American roots:National Indian Law Library: https://narf.org/nill/resources/roots.html Ancestry.com Research: https://support.ancestry.com/s/article/Researching-Native-American-Ancestors Dawes rolls: https://www.okhistory.org/research/dawes American Indian Records & Resources: https://www.okhistory.org/research/americanindians Ancestry: https://www.ancestry.com/ Newspapers: https://www.newspapers.com/ Fold3: https://www.fold3.com/?group=1 Family Tree: https://www.familytree.com/Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In season 2, episode 10, I interviewed Composer, Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate about his upcoming and unprecedented opera, “Shell Shaker, a Chickasaw Opera”, the first opera ever written in the Chickasaw language.And now I’d like to introduce you to 2 award-winning Native opera singers who you’ll find performing in that upcoming opera, February of 2023 at Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, MA•Dr. Kirsten C. Kunkle (Muskogee) is a Spinto Soprano, Composer, and Artistic Director and Co-Founder of the Wilmington Concert Opera. Listen here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lfDoSR6Jkg •Kate Raquel Morton (Cherokee) recently graduated from Oklahoma City University and is a Lyric Mezzo-Soprano. Listen here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjCNN-3UuaQ As someone who used to sing opera myself, I suggested we 3 share our favorite opera picks for someone who’s just getting their feet wet in the genre (search on YouTube for the following):Kirsten’s Picks: •Opera: Amahl and the Night Visitors by Gian Carlo Menotti•Opera: La Boheme by Giacomo Puccini•Opera: Carmen by Georges BizetKate’s Picks: •Opera: Le nozze di Figaro by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with Isabel Leonard as Cherubino•Opera Singer: Jessye NormanRachael’s Picks: •Aria (song): Nessun dorma from Turandot by Giacomo Puccini, sung by Luciano Pavarotti •Opera Singer: Beverly Sills In this episode, you’ll hear about:•Intermountain Opera Bozeman: https://www.intermountainopera.org/ •Kate’s foil fencing, Cherokee language speaking, guitar playing, the fact that she’s an “Okie from Muskogee” and the one thing she cannot do•Kirsten and Kate’s own Muskogee and Cherokee family histories•Baby Diva (a force to be reconned with)•Yellowstone’s 150 year anniversary in which Kate sang and Kirsten wrote and performed a piece called “Reclaim the Land”. To learn more, check out:•Kirsten: https://www.wilmingtonconcertopera.com/•Kate: https://www.kateraquelmorton.com•Jerod: https://www.facebook.com/jerodtate Yakoke, y’all! Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcastAll Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 3 of 3"I should never have surrendered. I should have fought until I was the last man alive." These are the words spoken on the deathbed of probably the most well-know Native American warrior in history, known as Geronimo.Some considered him a warrior, and many viewed him as a “sell-out, while others thought of him as a popular Native “character”, representative of all Indians in North America. I must admit, until I met Author (and retired PhD Physicist), W. Michael Farmer, I underestimated the significant warrior skills of Geronimo. Now I have an entirely new respect for this Apache fighter. In this episode of Native ChocTalk, you’ll learn about:•The Chiricahua Apache •Geronimo’s incredibly monumental warrior skills •The lesser-known story of the little girl, Trinidad and her encounter with Geronimo•Geronimo’s friendship with Quanah Parker •The warrior’s quest to be set free to go “home”•Skull & Bones Society, and the true-or-false controversy over Geronimo’s remains Check out W. Michael Farmer’s website where you can find the 3 books we cover in this episode: https://wmichaelfarmer.com/•“The Odyssey of Geronimo, Twenty Three Years a Prisoner of War”•“Trini! Come!: Geronimo’s Captivity of Trinidad Verdin”•“The Iliad of Geronimo”Yakoke, Michael for sharing your research and expertise!Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“Whatever high crimes and mass deaths and lasting pain can be attributed to the perpetrators of genocide on innocent people, the truth is, we must forgive. And what of the Choctaw-Irish connection? We cannot blame the people standing before us for the mistakes their ancestors made. The wrong we are attempting to right in this volume is ignorance. Ignorance of the truth about the Irish Potato Famine, and the cruelty and deaths that resulted from the Choctaws who were forced on the Trail of Tears.
We forgive, for that is how we lighten the burden and allow our own lives to proceed; but we will never forget. And why? So it will never happen again. That is our hope, our wish, our prayer. May the tragedies of our peoples never happen again. Our gift, the Choctaw Gift to the Irish, is a gift of love. Love and respect for you, your children, your husbands, wives, your ancestors, those buried and those hovering about. We send you blessings and hope that the spirit of joy will shine upon you every day of your life – and beyond.”
These are the writings of Choctaw Author, Tim Tingle in the book, “Famine Pots: The Choctaw-Irish Gift Exchange, 1847-Present” by LeAnne Howe and Padraig Kirwan, which entails a collection of 15 essays written by both Irish and Choctaws (such as Tim and others), about the beauty of the bond between the Irish and the Choctaw.
Today’s episode is one to celebrate – it’s Native ChocTalk’s 50th episode! But more importantly, this year (2022) is one of commemoration and contemplation, as it’s the 175th anniversary of the Choctaw gift to the Irish in which they sent funds for food during Ireland’s deadly famine.
Some of the conversations in today’s episode are difficult to hear. My guest, Seth Fairchild of the Chahta Foundation and I talk about the realities and suffering of the Irish Famine. But you’ll also hear about the beauty of kindred spirits that were born out of the kindness of strangers, and the bond that resulted from a small gift presented by those who were also suffering.
You’ll also learn about: • The origin of the potato and its introduction to Ireland • How and why the Irish famine began • The grave mistreatment of the Irish • What the Choctaws felt and did upon hearing the news of the famine in Ireland • Why funds were sent to the Irish, despite the Choctaw facing hardships themselves • The Choctaw-Irish connection and similarities that go back for centuries • The Chahta Foundation and the Choctaw-Ireland Scholarship in which you’ll hear from Claire Green Young on her experience as a Choctaw college student in Ireland • Alex Pentek’s monument, Kindred Spirits (a tribute to the Choctaw for their kindness)
I’d like to dedicate today’s 50th episode to the people of Ireland. The suffering of your ancestors will never be forgotten. And may our people’s kindred spirits live on for centuries to come.
Information: • Choctaw-Ireland Scholarship Programme: https://tinyurl.com/5n7kvzmc • Chahta Foundation: https://chahtafoundation.com/ • “Famine Pots: The Choctaw-Irish Gift Exchange, 1847-Present” https://tinyurl.com/mrxc8zm7
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
2 of 3
"I should never have surrendered. I should have fought until I was the last man alive." These are the words spoken on the deathbed of probably the most well-know Native American warrior in history, known as Geronimo.
Some considered him a warrior, and many viewed him as a “sell-out, while others thought of him as a popular Native “character”, representative of all Indians in North America.
I must admit, until I met Author (and retired PhD Physicist), W. Michael Farmer, I underestimated the significant warrior skills of Geronimo. Now I have an entirely new respect for this Apache fighter.
In this episode of Native ChocTalk, you’ll learn about: • The Chiricahua Apache • Geronimo’s incredibly monumental warrior skills • The lesser-known story of the little girl, Trinidad and her encounter with Geronimo • Geronimo’s friendship with Quanah Parker • The warrior’s quest to be set free to go “home” • Skull & Bones Society, and the true-or-false controversy over Geronimo’s remains
Check out W. Michael Farmer’s website where you can find the 3 books we cover in this episode: https://wmichaelfarmer.com/ • “The Odyssey of Geronimo, Twenty Three Years a Prisoner of War” • “Trini! Come!: Geronimo’s Captivity of Trinidad Verdin” • “The Iliad of Geronimo”
Yakoke, Michael for sharing your research and expertise!
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Part 1 of 3
"I should never have surrendered. I should have fought until I was the last man alive." These are the words spoken on the deathbed of probably the most well-know Native American warrior in history, known as Geronimo.
Some considered him a warrior, and many viewed him as a “sell-out, while others thought of him as a popular Native “character”, representative of all Indians in North America.
I must admit, until I met Author (and retired PhD Physicist), W. Michael Farmer, I underestimated the significant warrior skills of Geronimo. Now I have an entirely new respect for this Apache fighter.
In this episode of Native ChocTalk, you’ll learn about: • The Chiricahua Apache • Geronimo’s incredibly monumental warrior skills • The lesser-known story of the little girl, Trinidad and her encounter with Geronimo • Geronimo’s friendship with Quanah Parker • The warrior’s quest to be set free to go “home” • Skull & Bones Society, and the true-or-false controversy over Geronimo’s remains
Check out W. Michael Farmer’s website where you can find the 3 books we cover in this episode: https://wmichaelfarmer.com/ • “The Odyssey of Geronimo, Twenty Three Years a Prisoner of War” • “Trini! Come!: Geronimo’s Captivity of Trinidad Verdin” • “The Iliad of Geronimo”
Yakoke, Michael for sharing your research and expertise!
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
It was early morning as the Choctaw Mississippi families eagerly approached the train. A mother reached for her 3-year-old daughter’s hand to help lift her into the box train, her pudgy toddler fingers grasping tightly as she boarded the steel box on wheels for the very first time.
The little girl looked up at her ishki (her mamma), as she asked in her Choctaw tongue, “Are we leaving home?” Her mother answered, “Yes, we’re leaving to start a new home. And everything will be wonderful.”
But the future was not as hopeful as her mother had thought. This new start would be more like something from a nightmare. It’s a story that most have never heard – a second departure of the Choctaw in 1903 from their homelands in Mississippi to Indian Territory, now Oklahoma.
Join me and my guest, Deanna Byrd, a registered professional archaeologist and NAGPRA* Liaison-Coordinator for our Tribe, The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, as she discusses her groundbreaking research on this topic.
And please take a few minutes to watch this must-see documentary and beautiful tribute to these Mississippi Choctaw, and interviews with their descendants. (By Deanna Byrd and award-winning filmmaker and Native ChocTalk guest, Mark Williams): Ikhaiyana la chi – “I Will Remember” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzgTTJKN2mk)
“If there are professionals in institutions, universities, and/or museums that are unsure if they have a NAGPRA collection, if they have one and they don't know where to start, or just want to connect with other compassionate, open-minded individuals that are shaping the museum industry, please find us.” – Deanna Byrd, NAGPRA Community of Practice: https://liberalarts.du.edu/anthropology-museum/nagpra/community-practice
Yakoke, Deanna for your tireless hours of work researching and giving these Choctaw Mississippi and their untold story a voice. May we never forget.
- NAGPRA: Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Become the CEO of “You, Inc.”. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Know that you’re here for a reason and a purpose.
These were the words of successful businessowner and CEO of Native Advisory, Lacey Horn when I asked what advice she had for other Native women (and people in general).
In this no-holes-barred conversation, Lacey and I discuss: • How even CEOs make mistakes • The pitfalls, lessons-learned, and challenges of running a successful business • How her mom’s work in healthcare for the Cherokee people inspired her to help others • That having a mentor is crucial • How choices she made based on her family, body and mind have led to greater fulfillment • The stories of her Cherokee ancestors
Native Advisory is a strategic advisory firm working with tribes all over the state of Oklahoma. Lacey’s job is to ensure that tribes maintain and attain true tribal sovereignty.
Between being a business owner at Native Advisory, Chairwoman of Native American Rights Fund, and a board member of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian (and more), I asked Lacey, “How DO you do it all?”. You don’t want to miss her answer and the inspiration she shares for every Native (and non-Natives too)!
Wado, Lacey!
Lacey’s Company, Native Advisory: https://nativeadvisory.com/contact
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For centuries, he provided nourishment for hundreds of families. And for countless winters, his wooly coat sheltered them from the freezing, bitter winds.
He’s the American Bison. And as this beautiful creature was nearly erased from the earth, he still survived and carried on in all his majesty, just as our Choctaw people also live on.
My guests, Amy and Ian Thompson of Nan Awaya Homestead are some of the caretakers of our great and mighty bison, and of our Oklahoma lands and traditional Choctaw foods.
I know you will absolutely enjoy this episode where we learn about the history of the buffalo and our Native heritage surrounding these stunning creatures, as well as:
• The story of the buffalo vs the train • The near extinction of our great bison • Buffalo parenting • How much buffalo weigh, how fast they can run and how high they can jump • On a scale of 1-10, how ignorant people are who try to pet these beasts • Revitalizing healthy Choctaw traditional cuisine • Restoring the native landscapes of our pastures
As you may know, I’ve always been a huge an of the American Bison. In fact, my logo is a buffalo (his name is Yvnvsh – meaning “buffalo” in Choctaw). So for many reasons, this episode is near and dear to my heart.
Join us as we pay tribute to the mighty yvnvsh!
Nan Awaya Website: https://www.nanawaya.com/
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
For centuries, he provided nourishment for hundreds of families. And for countless winters, his wooly coat sheltered them from the freezing, bitter winds.
He’s the American Bison. And as this beautiful creature was nearly erased from the earth, he still survived and carried on in all his majesty, just as our Choctaw people also live on.
My guests, Amy and Ian Thompson of Nan Awaya Homestead are some of the caretakers of our great and mighty bison, and of our Oklahoma lands and traditional Choctaw foods.
I know you will absolutely enjoy this episode where we learn about the history of the buffalo and our Native heritage surrounding these stunning creatures, as well as:
• The story of the buffalo vs the train • The near extinction of our great bison • Buffalo parenting • How much buffalo weigh, how fast they can run and how high they can jump • On a scale of 1-10, how ignorant people are who try to pet these beasts • Revitalizing healthy Choctaw traditional cuisine • Restoring the native landscapes of our pastures
As you may know, I’ve always been a huge an of the American Bison. In fact, my logo is a buffalo (his name is Yvnvsh – meaning “buffalo” in Choctaw). So for many reasons, this episode is near and dear to my heart.
Join us as we pay tribute to the mighty yvnvsh!
Nan Awaya Website: https://www.nanawaya.com/
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I recently caught up with Dr. Art Martinez from the Chumesh Tribe while he was at the Washoe Tribal Concessions at the beautiful Meeks Bay at Lake Tahoe. Dr. Martinez is a Trauma Specialist, and Clinical Psychologist. He’s also the Co-Director for the Center for Native Child and Family Resilience and more.
Dr. Martinez has spent his career promoting the healing of historical trauma within our American Indian communities. In this episode, he shares examples of historical trauma as it pertains to those who were forced to flee their lands to save their people, the boarding schools and ongoing family trauma, the missing and murdered and their families, and drugs, alcohol, domestic violence and violence on the reservations and elsewhere.
The following resources are available for those struggling with thoughts of suicide, domestic abuse, sexual violence and more: • Center for Native Child and Family Resilience: https://cncfr.jbsinternational.com/ • Capacity Building Center for Tribes https://capacity.childwelfare.gov/tribes • “StrongHearts Native Helpline is a 24/7 domestic, dating and sexual violence helpline for Native Americans and Alaska Natives, available by calling or texting 1-844-762-8483 or clicking on the chat icon on Strongheartshelpline.org.” • National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 • Crisis Text Line (Text to this number: 741741)
Yakoke, Dr. Martinez for helping us to understand this crucial topic and for all you do to help our communities!
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They were forbidden to practice their culture and to speak in their Native tongue. And yet, in World War I, that very language would surprise the Germans and ultimately contribute to victory!
Many know of the Navajo Code Talkers, but what most don’t realize is that in World War I, it was the Choctaw who were the first to begin Code Talking.
I come to you today from the beautiful First Americans Museum (FAM) in Oklahoma City to talk about our Code Talkers with my Choctaw guests, Nuchi Nashoba (President of the Choctaw Code Talkers Association) and Judy Allen (Historic Projects Officer at Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma)!
I think you’ll enjoy this fascinating information on our great Choctaw Code Talker heroes. Yakoke, Nuchi and Judy!
Thanks again to First Americans Museum for hosting us! https://famok.org/
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Native ChocTalk Presents:
Season 3, Episode 2: “Say Her Name: Karissa Hodge (Choctaw & Caddo) on Our Missing Murdered Indigenous Women–Chahta”
A word of warning about today’s content – I’ll be speaking with Karissa Hodge, President and Founder of Missing Murdered Indigenous Women-Chahta. Although you’ll hear stories that are disturbing, they’re necessary to be told, in hopes that the missing may be found, and so the missing and murdered are never forgotten.
If you or someone you know is in a dangerous situation, please call the domestic violence hotline, at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org.
You’ll also hear about Karissa’s own journey, as she has utilized her story as motivation to help others. I don’t take lightly the fact that Karissa is willing to share. Those who bravely come forward can sometimes face criticism from their family, friends and even their tribe. Yakoke, Karissa. We support you and your determination to help others!
MMIW-Chahta Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/NotInvisibleMMIWChahta
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It was the 1800s and the days of the old wild west. As more settlers inhabited our Choctaw peoples’ lands in Mississippi and later Indian Territory, laws had to be put in place to attempt to tame the incoming unknowns. But who would enforce these rules on Native lands?
Every story needs a hero, and in today’s episode, you’ll hear about our brave Choctaw heroes who rode through the pine wood forests of Mississippi, and later the rolling mountains of southeastern Indian Territory, protecting and serving their Choctaw communities. They were the Issuba Ominili Tvshka – the Choctaw Lighthorsemen - and they WERE the law of our Indian lands during those wild west years.
Many thanks to my award-winning guests, Historians Ryan Spring from Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Tribal Policeman, Nick Wallace who delve into the worlds and history of these warriors on horses!
You’ll also get to hear excerpts from Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer’s book, “Traitors” from her Choctaw Tribune Series, Book 2 – thank you, Sarah.
Join us, as we honor and learn about these courageous Lighthorsemen and about some fascinating stories of the old wild west!
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What do you think of when I say the word, “tribe”? Perhaps it means something like family or protection or social involvement or love and support (or all of the above)?
But what about those who don’t have their very own cheering section? Is there a sense of never quite belonging?
My guest today, Monica Brooks was adopted as a baby, but was abused and discarded. She never quite felt like she had her own “tribe”. And furthermore, she didn’t even know she was Native American until someone made her aware.
This feeling of wanting to belong to a loving family left a hole in Monica’s spirit. Her eventual connection to the Choctaw tribe was the beginning of her journey to healing.
And later, a terminal illness inspired her to give her kids and grandkids the gift of a sense of belonging as well, to introduce them to the tribe that will be there long after she’s gone.
Monica’s daughter, Samantha also joins us to talk about another perspective - the trauma that can be passed down in situations like these.
Today you’ll hear about: • The mystery of the months unaccounted for in the first few months of her life • How the game of hide-and-seek would prove or disprove that she was loved • How her intuition was guiding her to the truth as her story unfolded • The random way she went about finding her birth family • How Monica found inspiration from her ancestors who survived the Trial of Tears
Yakoke, Monica for sharing your story and for inspiring others!
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He was raised in a home with no electricity and no running water on his family’s Indian allotment land in western Oklahoma – out where that bright red dirt could both stain your clothes and, in some ways, stir that Okie pride.
From red dirt, ancient village country living to Mechanical Engineer specializing in aerodynamics, my guest’s stories on this last episode of Season 2 do not disappoint! I’d like to introduce you to Phil Cross - a historian, lecturer, Caddo traditional songs and dances lead singer, author, drummer, woodworker, flute maker and much more. And may I also point out, he’s from my hometown of Anadarko, Oklahoma. (He gets extra points for that.)
In this episode you’ll hear about: - How Phil’s dad was born on their allotment in western Oklahoma in a dug-out house - How he’s one of the only remaining experts that can build a koo hoot kiwat (Caddo grass-thatched house) - How his bow-and-arrow-making skills, using bodark wood (also known as Osage Orange) - The Caddo’s Turkey Dance (in fact, you’ll also hear from Caddo, Lowell Edmonds on the subject as well) - How his father played on the Haskell Indian football team - Phil shares about his greatest regret and words of wisdom for young men - How Phil produced and wrote a documentary called “Disinherited: Caddo Indians Loss of their Homelands” about the removal of Caddos from their ancient homelands to their reservation in Oklahoma. - How he’s related to Jim Thorpe! - The Caddo’s battles with the Osage
Yakoke, Phil for all your expertise and allowing us to learn more from you!
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
The Trail of Tears. It’s the story of heartbreak and sorrow for those who didn’t survive, as well as for those who did. And for us as descendants of the survivors, when we hear the phrase, “Trail of Tears” we are immediately taken to a place of mourning for those who suffered. As much as there’s acknowledgement of this tragedy, there’s also hope and inspiration. This is truly the Choctaw way.
There’s not a more inspirational story recorded than that of those who observed the Choctaw as they tirelessly walked their long journey and were heard….singing! Yes, singing. Observers recounted how an unlikely sound could be heard sweeping through the trees - beautiful hymns, Choctaw hymns – breathed with passion, courage and nostalgia, all emanating from the weary travelers’ voices. How did they find this strength? How was it even possible to sing during the worst of times?
My guest today, Sarah De Herrera is on a mission in life to record all 163 Choctaw hymns in order to bring healing for generational trauma, channeling those hymns that were sung along the Trail of Tears and beyond.
You’ll love this episode, as you’ll not only hear Sarah singing some lovely songs (that you’ll recognize) in the Choctaw language, but you’ll also hear about:
• The life of a Choctaw princess – it’s not as easy as you may think! • About the significance of a preacher named Cyrus Byington • The story of her grandpa and the pucker-toed moccasins • Interesting stories written about her ancestor, Willie Spring – you’re gonna love this!
Yakoke, Sarah!
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Last September, I stopped by Choctaw Nation Headquarters and enjoyed my conversation with Robert Baker, who contributes to our Choctaw language department on a daily basis.
In this episode with Robert, you’ll hear about:
• His great great grandfather, Ben Carterby, a Code Talker in World War 1 • How Choctaws played a big part in the War of 1812 • Robert’s war reenactments • His experience playing stickball (you’ll find his life size photo in the First Americans Museum!) • Interesting stories of Bokchito and Armstrong academy • Robert reads a story he wrote in Choctaw called, “No Tail Raccoon” (you’ll love this)
Also, a special kudos to Robert’s aunt who made some beautiful earrings that he was able to give me – they’re beautiful!
By the way, would YOU like to take some Choctaw language classes? It’s a lot of fun and no cost. I usually do the Tuesday and Thursday evening classes. Click on this link to learn more. https://choctawschool.com/classes/internet-classes.aspx
Yakoke, Robert for all you do and for sharing your interesting family stories!
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Most people have heard about the Trail of Tears, or what’s called the “Removal”, in which our Indigenous people were removed from their lands starting in the early 1800s and were relocated to Indian Territory (now Oklahoma).
The Choctaw were the very first to make the trek from Mississippi to their new home. The journey was deadly for some. Many of our people passed away due to harsh weather conditions, illness, starvation, and even at the hands of the soldiers who were transporting them.
But what happened next, once the Choctaw arrived in Indian Territory? And what came of the Choctaws who refused to be removed and to those who ran away into the swamps to hide? These questions have come to my mind over the years, and I’ve found answers here and there, but I needed to learn more. And not only that, I’ve probably pondered 100 other unanswered questions too.
Enter Megan Baker.
Megan is a Research Assistant for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Historic Preservation department and is currently working on her PhD in Anthropology from UCLA. Her masters is in American Indian Studies from UCLA and she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Ethnicity and Race Studies from Columbia University.
I’ve eagerly followed Megan’s monthly series in the “Iti Fabvssa”, a column in our Choctaw Nation’s Biskinik paper for quite a while, soaking in our history that she has tirelessly broken out by decades. But not only that. She has studied thousands of original documents, records and accounts by the Choctaw themselves (not just the history books) to bring us a very different viewpoint than what we’ve heard before. So it was an honor when she agreed to join me in this special 2-part Native ChocTalk episode.
So please join Megan and me in this journey through each decade with the story of the Choctaws after their removal to Indian Territory. And yakoke to Megan for her hundreds of hours of research that came in handy when I asked hundreds of questions – keep up that great work for our tribe and for future generations to come!
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Most people have heard about the Trail of Tears, or what’s called the “Removal”, in which our Indigenous people were removed from their lands starting in the early 1800s and were relocated to Indian Territory (now Oklahoma).
The Choctaw were the very first to make the trek from Mississippi to their new home. The journey was deadly for some. Many of our people passed away due to harsh weather conditions, illness, starvation, and even at the hands of the soldiers who were transporting them.
But what happened next, once the Choctaw arrived in Indian Territory? And what came of the Choctaws who refused to be removed and to those who ran away into the swamps to hide? These questions have come to my mind over the years, and I’ve found answers here and there, but I needed to learn more. And not only that, I’ve probably pondered 100 other unanswered questions too.
Enter Megan Baker.
Megan is a Research Assistant for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Historic Preservation department and is currently working on her PhD in Anthropology from UCLA. Her masters is in American Indian Studies from UCLA and she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Ethnicity and Race Studies from Columbia University.
I’ve eagerly followed Megan’s monthly series in the “Iti Fabvssa”, a column in our Choctaw Nation’s Biskinik paper for quite a while, soaking in our history that she has tirelessly broken out by decades. But not only that. She has studied thousands of original documents, records and accounts by the Choctaw themselves (not just the history books) to bring us a very different viewpoint than what we’ve heard before. So it was an honor when she agreed to join me in this special 2-part Native ChocTalk episode.
So please join Megan and me in this journey through each decade with the story of the Choctaws after their removal to Indian Territory. And yakoke to Megan for her hundreds of hours of research that came in handy when I asked hundreds of questions – keep up that great work for our tribe and for future generations to come!
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
I stopped by Riverside Indian School in my hometown, Anadarko, Oklahoma last summer to hang out with my friend, Terry Ware and what a great conversation we had!
This is a must-listen, dear listeners as you’ll have the pleasure of hearing:
• Terry singing a Kiowa hymn and the happy birthday song in Kiowa • About Riverside Indian School’s upcoming 150-year celebration in May of 2022! • The history of Riverside including about the feral hogs that used to come around (until a fence was put up) • How Terry is a coach at Riverside, but before that, he was my dad’s student there at the school • How he’s a legacy student at Riverside, as his grandmother, mom, daughter and grandson attended • About his family’s church - Wares Chapel - in Hog Creek where we grew up, and where my sister got married. And about the Chapel’s inception in the 1800s and gathering of and transporting stones from Chickasha to Hog Creek. • About the Kiowa tail bustle and the history from the Omaha tribe in Nebraska to the Cheyenne to the Kiowa • What his research on the Carlisle Indian School Journals uncovered • Why the O Ho Mah hid their drums and pipes in the caves in Ridge Stone, west of Hog Creek • His love of singing and drumming in the O Ho Mah Lodge Singers group • His ancestors’ names, such as “The Day the Sun Died” because his great great grandmother was born during the eclipse • About the Fort Sill vs Riverside rivalry (know what I’m talkin’ about, Braves?) 😉 • That “Indian perfume”, which comes out with the full moon in June, is what I should include with my eagle feathers to decrease the strong smell • And – we discuss the serious topic of our mutual adoration of Sonic drinks
Yakoke, Terry for your time and for sharing so much with myself and my listeners. Blessings to you!
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There was something comforting about the familiar scent of cedar that permeated from the wood burning stove inside the hogan each evening (“hogan” being the traditional home for the Navajo, in this case built of wood, with a dirt floor). The stove had 3 vents. And little sleepy James would watch the shadows from the vents on the walls, like fire dancing. As his heavy eyelids would slowly cover his eyes (despite trying to keep them open), he felt a sense of security as he couldn’t help but listen to his family members all snug inside talking about the day, the sounds and smells lulling him to sleep.
It was years later when James realized the significance of being surrounded by multiple Code Talkers as he was growing up (including his grandfather, Lemuel Yazzie) as they would all sit around talking about their time as Code Talkers. Even the Medicine Man who spoke many prayers for James was a Code Talker.
In Winslow, Arizona sits the Navajo Reservation, where my guest, Coach James Nells – Navajo, Salt Clan born for Under his Cover Clan – was born and raised. Life on the Reservation wasn’t always easy. Despite no electricity, herding sheep and hauling water, being surrounded by familiar centuries-old traditions and culture, somehow nearly kept intact despite the force of time and assimilation, was always “home”.
Coach Nells speak in his Navajo language and shares his inspirational story from reservation to foster care, to boarding school, to champion runner.
FYI, Coach Nells talks about the Navajo’s traditional squaw dance. This is a traditional term the Navajo called these dances and still call them to this day. I think it’s important that we respect their tradition and their right to call it what they do.
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There are many mysteries out there - many that will never be solved. And some mysteries are so frustrating, they’ll leave a gap in your soul. One of those such puzzles in life is that of we American Indians trying to figure out the stories and history of our ancestors.
Most of our history is told and passed down by oral tradition. So centuries of our own stories have never be heard as they’ve faded over time. We often long to connect in some way with those family members, so that we can understand more about their world and about ourselves, and so they’re never forgotten.
My guest today – Jennifer Story - posed a mystery to me as we were preparing ahead of time for this episode. She stated that as many Choctaws from Mississippi were being removed to Indian Territory (on what’s now known as the “Trail of Tears”), she was baffled by the question that kept coming to her mind - why were her Choctaw ancestors removed many years later than the others?
Listen to today’s episode to hear about this mystery unraveled and solved!
You’ll also learn about: • A man named Bearheart • Some unlikely next door neighbors • What Jennifer learned as she cared for her ill brother • The stories from Jennifer playing a dancer in the movie, Killers of the Flower Moon (guess whose famous actress’ shoes Jennifer was given to wear in the movie!) • How her legendary Aunt Esther single-handedly saved the Tewa language • Hear what famous actor attended Aunt Esther’s funeral • Jennifer and I had such a fun time, so you may be hearing quite a dose of laughter from us Choctaw gals
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The year was 1830. Up to 6,000 Choctaws gathered each day. White observers also decided to come along. Cattle was butchered to feed the masses, supplies were set up in tents and all were anxious to observe what was to come.
Gambling tables were provided - an activity that opened the door to brawls. Tables were knocked over amongst the fights and many were bullied by trigger-happy troublemakers. On the other hand, Christian services took place amongst the chaos. The Choctaw danced throughout the night, then retired in camps along Dancing Rabbit Creek, while the whites encamped in random spots.
The most notable of the Choctaw were present - Chiefs Greenwood LeFlore, Mushulatubbee, and Nittakechi, Choctaw warrior, Hopaii Ishkitini and many others.
But this was no celebration. The most significant treaty between the US Government and the Choctaw was to be negotiated and signed on September 27th, 1830 at this very site. These signatures meant the Choctaw would be surrendering 11 million Mississippi acres, the removal to Indian Territory imminent. The lives and futures of the Choctaw people would be changed forever.
Amongst these goings on, there once lived a prominent Choctaw woman named Sukky who lived with her husband and 2 kids just up the hill from the Treaty grounds. What did Sukky have to do with these events?
My guest, Chrissy Gray Dickmeyer is a descendant of Sukky and reads to us about a perspective around the gathering of the Choctaw during the signing of The Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek and the struggle she must have faced with the guests she had to host in her home.
But there’s even more…Chrissy also reads to us about the stories of The Edwards Store – a historic trading post that’s been in her family for 170 years! This trading post, nestled among the beautiful San Bois Mountains in Oklahoma, was absolutely essential for the Choctaw. And we’ll also talk about how molasses was a staple by the gallon!
YOU are invited to come visit The Edwards Store, see this living piece of history for yourself, sip on some sweet tea and sit a spell.
Oh and one more thing. Chrissy and I discuss something very important. What REALLY IS in the panhandle of Oklahoma? Okies, you know what I’m sayin’, right?
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Enchanting historic roads wind through the miles of evergreen trees in the Kiamichi Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma. The shaky autumn leaves tinted in colors of gold and rust drift to the earth with the Oklahoma wind, whispering the tales of those who have come and gone.
The Caddo Indians would be pushed out of their region by those Choctaw who had survived the Trail of Tears, removed from their original homelands of Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas and placed in this new land in Indian Territory. The original bustling town, filled with busy Choctaws going about their day is now under water. Big Foot, who supposedly once ventured through the hills seeking food, faded into but a legend. The bootleggers who honed their skills creating, drinking and selling hooch along the riverbeds of the dark forests, slowly gave way to roads, shops and tourists (or did they?).
I turned to a Choctaw expert who grew up near Hochatown, Shauna Williams to learn more about this mysteriously beautiful part of the state and the comings and goings of such fascinating people, hairy creatures and moving towns. I also asked about the many fun things to do in Hochatown with kids, family or a significant other - from warm fireplaces in lovely cabins nestled in the woods, to adventures for the kids, to camping, to Big Foot hunting and more!
Shauna is in Construction Project Management across our Tribal Reservation as Director of Real Estate Development for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. The day I visited with Hochatown at the Choctaw Nation Community Center, there was a big announcement coming that was top secret, and a celebration was even taking place that evening. You can only imagine how intrigued I was. Over the next couple of days, I’ll share more!
I’m excited for you to hear this week’s episode about beautiful Hochatown, which is east of the Mountain Fork River in southeastern Oklahoma! Today you’ll hear about:
• The history of Hochatown and how it got its name • Our Choctaw influence in Hochatown • Why this town is deemed the “Moonshine capital of Oklahoma” • Big Foot. Yep. He’s here, y’all. And no one loves Big Foot more than the people of Hochatown! • Is the original town now really under 200 feet of water? • Hear Shauna’s own ancestral history and why her uncle had to hide out in the mountains of Smithville. • FYI, Hochatown is near Broken Bow, so you’ll often hear both names. • Shauna and I can neither confirm nor deny if hooch is still being made in the mountain woods…
I hope you’ll enjoy, and if you’ve been to Hochatown, feel free to post photos to my Native ChocTalk Facebook page. Yakoke! https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
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I was recently asked to speak with some inspiring 6th through 12th graders - young ladies of an Oklahoma Native American boarding school that’s near and dear to my heart.
After eating dinner with these intelligent (and fun) gals, many of them eager for their next steps and about to head into the adult world, I talked about Women’s History Month and what it means for us as Native American women.
“How many of you can name at least one famous American Indian Chief?”, I asked. Many of the girls blurted out multiple names of Chiefs that both Natives and non-Natives could easily recall.
“And now, outside of Pocahontas and Sacagawea, can you name some notable American Indian women from history?” The room was silent, as they each started to scan the room for their counterparts who may know. Perhaps they were thinking, “Surely there are several significant Native women we can talk about, right?”
It’s not that these important women don’t exist, they’re just not as well documented and certainly aren’t as well known. Think about it. Can YOU name a few?
Don’t worry, there’s no judgement here and I’ll save you some time – check out this list for starters, from powwow.com, “20 Native American Women You Should Know”: https://www.powwows.com/20-native-american-women-you-should-know/
I went back to my computer later after I met with these ladies and recorded what was in my presentation so that you may also take a listen. I hope you’ll share this episode with your female friends and family members, daughters, nieces, students and so on. It may be a good way for them to start thinking about their own futures and the preservation of the stories of their female ancestors.
In this episode, I share about my own story – the struggles and the successes (cliff notes version of Native ChocTalk’s Episode 1, Season 2). And I delve into the story of the Choctaw woman, Ella Davis, who was given up to a white guardian when she was only 3 years old, and was treated as one of a few slaves in the household. I also tell her of her mother and her mother’s mother, who if you didn’t really take time to peel back the “layers of the onion” of their stories, you’d think they were neglectful and uncaring mothers.
The strength of these women should be one for the history books. And yet their stories, and that of many other Native women in history are rarely preserved. The journeys they made and the struggles they faced have been forgotten – even discarded, like dust in the wind.
And now it is up to us, to both learn about and preserve the stories of those females who came before us. And it is also now our time to make history too!
I thank you, my sisters – both past and present, and those young ladies I met with from the boarding school. I am so proud of you already. I know you will go into the world, work hard, pave your own way, break historical trauma cycles that may be looming and inspire those around you. Maybe someday you will be a guest I’ll be interviewing at Native ChocTalk. And perhaps we’ll be reading about YOU when it comes to Women’s History Month! Please know, I am cheering you on and I will be here for you along your journey.
A special thank you to the ladies’ Dorm Manager at the school and for suggesting this chance to visit with these future generations. I’m inspired by the sincere love you have for these girls.
Yakoke!
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“Be proud of who you are because your existence is a resistance against cultural genocide.” - Jake Tiger, Seminole
He’s the Seminole from Seminole, Oklahoma who works for the Seminole Nation. Can he even get more Seminole? Meet Jake Tiger, y’all! In addition to being a Seminole Jake is also: • A subject matter expert on and creates/sews/crafts Seminole textiles and traditional garments: o Did you know in the old days, it cost 16 deer hides to buy 1 flintlock rifle and 1 to 2 deer hides for 1 yard of calico fabric? o Hear about how Jake’s grandpa was the leading expert in Seminole textiles and revelation that came to Jake upon his grandpa’s death • An actor in films and commercials. Check him out in Killers of the Flower Moon, Reservation Dogs and more. In Reservation Dogs, see if you can find him in Season 1, episode 4 – he tells a funny story about something he did while on set. Listen to also find out which character he was forced to play on a show when he lost in rock, paper, scissors. • Someone you’d really want to know if the world came to an end, because as his ancestors before him, he knows the Native way to live in nature. He shares about: o How bear intestines are good for bow string o How to use bear grease o Flint knapping o Brain tanning, which came with a warning to not eat while you’re listening to this episode. “You’ll never look at strawberry milk the same again.” – Jake Tiger • A descendent of 2 war chiefs – Black Hawk (Sac and Fox) and Osceola • He’s like a capybara (listen to the episode to find out why he says so) All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
“Chickasaw legend tells of a girl who is teased by other children and named Loksi’—Turtle—for her slowness. Upon the counsel of a river, she goes to live in the forest. There, she finds hospitality among the turtle people. One day, the god of the turtles asks her to tell her fellow humans to treat turtles with respect and kindness, and gives her a gift of turtle shells filled with pebbles and seeds to bring back with her. The rattles were adopted by the people of Loksi’ and used to accompany dances and ceremonies, a reminder to treat the natural world with care.”* (from interactive.wttw.com)
As a former opera singer with a music degree, I’m ecstatic about today’s Native ChocTalk episode! Here we have something unprecedented - an opera in an American Indian language (Chickasaw), by an American Indian Composer (Jerod Impichchaachaaha Tate), and we all should be celebrating this enormous breakthrough in Native arts!
In this episode, Jerod discusses with me (like the music nerds we are):
· How there aren’t rules set up yet around how spoken and sung Chickasaw may differ. (In traditional operas with languages such as French and Italian, etc., there are often rules about the differences between spoken and sung.)
· The challenges around composing in a difficult language, paired with an extremely demanding genre such as opera, to complete a work that has never been attempted before. This requires a modern Chickasaw speaker (Joshua Hinson) who interprets and translates the words into text, as well as a Dramateur/Librettest (libretto = the wording in an opera), Lyla Palmer, partnering with a Composer such as Jerod who has vision and determination to see this opera to fruition. And voila – you now have something unique and beautiful.
Stay tuned for upcoming announcements, as this opera is most likely going live November of 2022 at UMass Amherst!
Three cheers for these talented folks, as well as the singers!
· Jerod Impichchaachaaha Tate: Composer · Tianhui Ng: Conductor · Lokosh (Josh Hinson): Interpreter/Translator · Margaret Wheeler: Costume Design
Find and follow Jerod Tate here:
· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jerodtatecomposer · Website: https://jerodtate.com/
*https://interactive.wttw.com/playlist/2021/11/23/jerod-impichchaachaaha-tate
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Although she’s Choctaw, my guest, Nancy Tecumseh Mason is immersed within her husband and children’s tribe (Muscogee Nation). And for years now, Nancy has relentlessly poured her time and energy into supporting the youth of the tribe as Director of the Mvskoke Nation Youth Services.
In this episode, you’ll hear about Mvskoke Nation Youth Services:
• This program is created by youth for youth, and “Nothing about us without us” is the motto that empowers these youth to make decisions and to have a voice at the table from day one. • Check out Mvskoke artists, including some pieces from these talented youth, where you can even purchase some of their items! https://www.mvskokeyouth.com/mvskokeartists
You’ll also learn about:
• The story of her dad and her Uncle Amos who both had an eye for Nancy’s mother • The many spellings and versions of the Muscogee name • Nancy isn’t related to Tecumseh, the Shawnee Warrior Chief we’ve read about in history books, but we do talk about the historical rhyme that could correct the way many of us say, “Tecumseh”. How do YOU say this name?
Mvskoke Nation Youth Services:
• Website: https://www.mvskokeyouth.com/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MvskokeYouth • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mvskokeyouth/
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Prior to non-Natives settling in what is now the United States, Native American spirituality had solidified over centuries, differing within each tribe. That spirituality included rituals and inner meditations around nature, harmony, community and more.
But it wasn’t long after the settlers arrived that missionaries felt called (or were sometimes appointed) to spread the gospel of Jesus to the Indigenous people. Some missionaries grew to love their friendships with the Natives, even adopting some of their culture, language and ways of life, some even creating dictionaries which thankfully today can be attributed to the preservation of languages that otherwise would have become “dust in the wind”.
The darker side to the infiltration of the missionaries was displayed by those who had a more sinister goal in mind, “beating” the spirituality, language, culture and traditions out of the Indigenous people so that the non-Natives would be more easily able assimilate them into their own culture and grab their land and resources.
You may recall my friend and guest who appeared in Season 1 - Monroe Tsatoke (Kiowa), descendent of Hunting Horse and Monroe Tsatoke of the well-known artist of The Kiowa 5/Kiowa 6. He joins us again to share about:
• How some Native Christians still practice their traditional spirituality but face judgement from both the Christian community and the Native community for doing both • The history of the United Methodist Church among Native Americans • His own experience of being talked down to by outside missionaries • How Stumbling Bear was one of the first Methodist Kiowas to convert to Christianity • About his grandparents who would walk 5 miles to church every Sunday to preach • How Monroe almost ruined the Christmas pageant and other hilarious stories from Kiowa country • Monroe himself also sings for us in his Native tongue (Kiowa)
You’re invited to hear Monroe preach at Hunting Horse United Methodist Church: 611 S 25th, Lawton, OK at 11:00 am on Sundays.
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“Despite our wealth, our lives were cheap. - Jim Gray discussing his Osage people in “Indian Country Today” magazine, Sept 13, 2019
On February 6th, 1923, hunters came upon a Buick that had crashed into a slope in Fairfax, Oklahoma. The 40-year-old driver was found slumped over the steering wheel, a bullet in the back of his head. He was an Osage man, lured into a dangerous trap by a white man - someone he thought was a good and trusted friend.
The book, “Killers of the Flower Moon” by David Grann tells the story of the Osage murders and “The Reign of Terror”, a time when non-Native guardians were killing for the sake of inheriting land. But not just any land – Oklahoma mineral rich land, and the oil was producing millions of dollars for the tribe. This story is soon to be released as a movie by Martin Scorsese, with Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio and an impressive slew of Native actors from across Oklahoma and elsewhere.
Join me in this conversation with Jim Gray, the great grandson of the man found murdered in the car - Henry Roan. Although it happened long ago, the pain couldn’t be more real, and it’s still felt today among his family members and the community.
As former Chief of the Osage Nation, Jim was actually the youngest Chief in modern history and you’ll hear about how in 2004, he was able to ensure the Osage’s sovereignty was finally recognized!
You’ll also learn about:
⦁ The impact Jim had on Martin Scorsese to rewrite the “Killers of the Flower Moon” script ⦁ How his friend taught Robert De Niro to speak Osage ⦁ Thoughts on Osage living side-by-side with descendants of those who killed the Osage ⦁ The story of David Grann at a book signing. Hint: the descendants of both William Hale and Henry Roan were present ⦁ Whizbang, OK and why Jim’s face turned red ⦁ The latest on McGirt vs Oklahoma and tribal sovereignty, and Governor Stitt’s fight to have the Supreme Court ruling reversed
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“Despite our wealth, our lives were cheap. - Jim Gray discussing his Osage people in “Indian Country Today” magazine, Sept 13, 2019
On February 6th, 1923, hunters came upon a Buick that had crashed into a slope in Fairfax, Oklahoma. The 40-year-old driver was found slumped over the steering wheel, a bullet in the back of his head. He was an Osage man, lured into a dangerous trap by a white man - someone he thought was a good and trusted friend.
The book, “Killers of the Flower Moon” by David Grann tells the story of the Osage murders and “The Reign of Terror”, a time when non-Native guardians were killing for the sake of inheriting land. But not just any land – Oklahoma mineral rich land, and the oil was producing millions of dollars for the tribe. This story is soon to be released as a movie by Martin Scorsese, with Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio and an impressive slew of Native actors from across Oklahoma and elsewhere.
Join me in this conversation with Jim Gray, the great grandson of the man found murdered in the car - Henry Roan. Although it happened long ago, the pain couldn’t be more real, and it’s still felt today among his family members and the community.
As former Chief of the Osage Nation, Jim was actually the youngest Chief in modern history and you’ll hear about how in 2004, he was able to ensure the Osage’s sovereignty was finally recognized!
You’ll also learn about: ⦁ The impact Jim had on Martin Scorsese to rewrite the “Killers of the Flower Moon” script ⦁ How his friend taught Robert De Niro to speak Osage ⦁ Thoughts on Osage living side-by-side with descendants of those who killed the Osage ⦁ The story of David Grann at a book signing. Hint: the descendants of both William Hale and Henry Roan were present ⦁ Whizbang, OK and why Jim’s face turned red ⦁ The latest on McGirt vs Oklahoma and tribal sovereignty, and Governor Stitt’s fight to have the Supreme Court ruling reversed
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He happened to look down at what his counselor had jotted down on a piece of paper in his school file. He couldn’t help but take a peek. What did it say? The 3 words could’ve set his destiny in stone forever. “Not college material.” The phrase sank into his mind, solidifying what his future may entail – anything but college, he concluded, based on his counselor’s findings. After all, a counselor would know, right?
So how did this “not college material” Muscogee man end up achieving his master’s degree, followed by his Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, working for the Muscogee Nation as Secretary of Education, getting published in articles on Indian education, becoming Tribal Assembly President, and Educational Counselor appointed by the Governor and working on the executive board for the Johnson O’Malley Program? Oh, and not to mention, also serving our country in the Navy too!
My guest in today’s episode is Dr. Wayne Johnson, and despite his hard work and success, he and I humbly said to me, “None of that compares to when I was a teacher.” God bless you, Wayne!
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
• The precious words of Wayne’s mother detailing how she was taken from her family and sent to Chilocco Indian School • How Wayne and his siblings were taken to a children’s home • His powerful experience at Haskell Indian College • How his parents believed in and influenced their sons’ futures • His work at Riverside Indian School, Haskell Indian School, Pine Ridge Reservation, Flandreau Indian School and Rosebud Reservation • Pine Ridge Reservation and the events that occurred there, such as Wounded Knee Massacre and more • His friendship with Oglala Lakota, Tamakoce Te’Hila, (known as Billy Mills), 1964 Olympic gold medal champion, and how no one was expecting an American Indian to show up and win
I hope you’ll take inspiration from Wayne’s story (and Billy Mills’ too) and feel empowered to do what you’re meant to do in life, despite what someone may have said to or thought of you. The world is your oyster, my friends so release those chains of others’ opinions and go seize the day!
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
“If you wanna see women go to war, I would say come to Choctaw, Mississippi!” – Chalena Marcus Billy from the Pearl River Ohoyo Team 2021 Stickball Champions
Welcome to a new episode of Native ChocTalk’s Part 2 of “Stickball, Little Brother of War: Mississippi Choctaws, Mark Williams & Chalena Marcus Billy
Listen to the episode here! https://tinyurl.com/ybbkdhvy
In part 1, stickball player, expert and stickmaker, Brenner Billy taught us about the history, culture and spirituality around the historic American Indian game of stickball.
Part 2 is here, y’all! And I know you’ll enjoy hearing from both Mark Williams, award-winning Choctaw filmmaker and champion stickball player, Chalena Marcus Billy.
Mark looks back at how he raised money to make films by having an Indian taco sale, how he practiced horror filmmaking on his friends (and they survived), all about his comics titled, “The adventures of Josie the Frybread Kid” and about his success today earning awards for his incredible films.
And last but not least, this ohoyo powerhouse, Chalena tells us what it’s like to play in this historic and dangerous game, about the difference between stickball in Oklahoma vs. Mississippi and how as a woman, her desire to play stickball derives from a drive deep within that differs from that of her male counterparts. But even this seemingly indestructable champion had a tender perspective on how the loss of the most important person in her life affected her world, yet made her the person and stickball player she is today.
You don’t want to miss this!
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When you think of certain sports like football, you think rough, tough and full of injuries. But that’s nothing compared to say, rugby. Now THAT’s a dangerous sport. But have you heard of a sport that involved a goal to settle disputes between tribes, and sometimes so fierce that it ended in death?
The players of this game prepared by painting their bodies and limiting their diet, drinking Spanish Tea made of bark from red oak trees. And by not eating and sleeping for days and nights, they’d be filled with rage by the time the game kicked off.
As many as 1,000 men from opposing tribes screamed their war cries to the incessant beating of drums. With no protective gear, no referees and very few rules, the game began. The preciseness of thrusting a minuscule ball onto a narrow pole can only be performed by generations of warriors inheriting and honing their skill and focus - that same focus of those who hunted the stealthy deer and the running chukfi (rabbit). The game lasted for days, from sun-up to sundown. Whoever won, won not just the dispute, but also their tribe and oppositions’ respect.
Today in part 1 of “Stickball, Little Brother of War” we discuss the spiritual and hard-core game of stickball, where even as recent as 1937, an eyewitness named Frank Grall was interviewed from Wewoka, Oklahoma while watching a stickball game saying, “…but when the first fellow got the ball, some player hit him over the head with a club, peeling the skin until it hung over his ear. The battle was so fierce, that when the game was ended and one side had been chased from the ground, the pool was perfectly bloody.” (The pool he’s talking about is where the women would pull the men from the game and place them in pools of water to try to get them to regain consciousness.) He then said, “This was the last Indian ball game played in such a brutal manner, for the Government took notice of such brutality and sent deputy marshals to the games to prevent such cruelty. At this game I saw players bite one another.”
Yep. Definitely rough.
As we talk about this historic and spiritual game that’s still played today, who better to talk about it than expert, Brenner Billy (Choctaw). He comes from a long line of stickball players, he’s damn good at the game, and even he’s a master at making the sticks – a skill passed down to him by family.
And stay tuned for part 2 of “Stickball, Little Brother of War” where I’ll meet with both a filmmaker who documents the world of stickball, as well as one very strong Chahta oyoho (Choctaw lady) and total stickball rock star.
Yakoke!
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You’ve heard the heartbreaking stories of the American Indian boarding schools from years past. And the accounts continue to unfold – children of all ages being removed from their homes, a government intent on “killing the man, saving the Indian”, and innocent kids being taught to forsake their language, customs, traditions and all they’ve ever known.
But what about the boarding schools that were turned over to the Bureau of Indian Affairs? There’s one such school today that’s run by American Indians, whose mission is not only to teach, but also to encourage and help students to understand, learn about and preserve their history, language ad culture.
Today, we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Riverside Indian School – the oldest off-reservation Native American boarding school in the United States today! And this, my friends is a boarding school that’s a far cry from those of the past.
Growing up in Anadarko, Oklahoma and my father working at Riverside, as well as knowing many alumni and teachers, allowed me the experience that others may not know or understand. Take a listen to hear why.
And there truly is so much more to this story. In today’s episode, you’ll hear from Timothy Yeahquo (Kiowa) about:
• The history of Riverside and the Quakers who originally started it • How the Navajo contributed to keeping Riverside from closing down • Riverside’s former names • 76 tribes from all over the US have attended to Riverside. One can walk through the campus at times, enjoying the sound of drums echoing through the campus or watching a game of stickball being played.
For Riverside Indian School’s 150 year celebration in 2022, alumni, students and teachers will enjoy (at no cost) listening to a Riverside alumni comedian, a concert, a powwow, an art show, a fashion show and more!
For contributions (utilized for student events, shoes for sports, prom dresses, hygiene products and more), please contact: Timothy Yeahquo, timothy.yeahquo@bie.edu, Riverside Indian School, 101 Riverside Drive Anadarko, OK 73005
Listeners, please stay tuned for a future episode dedicated to the children and tragic stories of the boarding schools, with a guest who will share about the historical trauma carried on today from her own experience, as well as that of her ancestors and thousands of others. We pray for hope and healing for all who have been affected and may we never forget the innocent children who lost so much. And we wish Riverside students many blessings on their journey of education, cultural preservation and future opportunities!
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There’s an incredibly powerful book that changed the way we understand and “feel” the journeys of those who walked the Trail of Tears. It’s called Tushpa's Story (Touch My Tears: Tales from the Trail of Tears Collection), and January 28, 2022, is the 6th anniversary of its release!
What better way to celebrate this anniversary than by hearing more about the book, directly from Choctaw Author, Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer. And guess what? You can either buy the book on this website (https://www.sarahelisabethwrites.com/), or you can download a FREE copy (by clicking on the red ribbon at the top and signing up for the newsletter)!
Sarah isn’t just a writer - she’s a trailblazer. In her collections, she takes our historical Choctaw stories and events and creates fascinating can’t-put-it-down historical fiction books (“heavy on the fiction and heavy on the on the history”, she says) – finally, a way to make our history come alive!
A special guest, Sarah Elisabeth’s mother, Lynda Kay was also willing to join in to share about the work she does to support Sarah’s writing, about their family’s ancestral stories and about her photography, writing and jewelry design. Check out this website to see her jewelry! https://www.sarahelisabethwrites.com/shopping?category=Jewelry
Sarah Elisabeth mentions in her website, “enduring hope and incredible beauty rises from the ashes.” And that’s what I love about these books. Each one conveys hope, even in the worst of times. I think you’ll be inspired, so enjoy and let me know what you think!
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Buckle up, y’all. Because today you’re going to study with me and my guest about a time in history when the entire future of our Indigeneous people had come to a crossroads that depended upon crucial decisions. Would each tribe fight for the right to stay in the land of their ancestors? Or would they succumb to the pressures of colonization and the removal to the new, unknown lands of Indian Territory.
These decisions, which could mean life or death for many or all, were the burden of every Chief.
No one personifies this pivotal moment more than the man some described as, the “Last great chief of the Choctaw.” His name was Mushulatubbee. And my guest, Steven Hunter, is the fifth great grandson of this great “Minco” (or Chief, in Choctaw). Steven presents his extensive research and his paper about this Minco, who was tasked with balancing the elements of an ever-changing world that would change the tribe’s way of life forever.
And perhaps a new appreciation will be born for the hundreds of Mincos who suffered under the tremendous burden of choice during these times. May they never be forgotten…
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WELCOME to Season 2 of Native Choctalk, A Podcast by Natives For All!
My Producer and friend, Bee will be interviewing me in this 2nd of a 2 part series. I am honored to openly share about my ancestral stories, following the lineage of my great grandmother Ella, starting with her mother, Rosa Coley. I say “openly share”, because for too long, our ancestors were told to “be quiet”, to not speak their language and to disown their culture and traditions. I hope to be their voice today, to keep their memories alive and to honor their story and their journey.
You’ll hear about the journey of the Coley family, who were outstanding and prominent citizens in their Choctaw community. Yet, in the year 1896, with the fate of one single decision, their lives would change forever, and generations to come would stare poverty, loss, abuse and death in the face. Yet even in the midst of such sorrow, resiliency, faith and sheer Okie red dirt grit, held this tight-knit family together. 1896 may have knocked some down, but they were not out, and they found strength in family and in rebuilding together.
Bee and I enjoyed recording these 2 episodes - we can’t seem to get together without laughing and carrying on. However, although we may occasionally burst into friendship mode and a laugh or two, we do care deeply about the people we’re discussing, and we take the issues at hand very seriously.
Yakoke to my ancestors for choosing to carry on, despite the pain and sorrow, and for living the example of strength and resiliency by which we, your descendants can forever be inspired.
CHAHTA SIA HOKE!
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WELCOME to Season 2 of Native Choctalk, A Podcast by Natives For All!
I’d like to thank each and every one of you who listened in Season 1 and supported this effort to preserve our American Indian stories, history, culture and traditions!
And, in order to take my own advice about preserving stories, today’s episode is in 2 parts and it’s a bit of my own story as well as that of my own ancestors.
My Producer and friend, Bee will be interviewing me today. We may have had a little too much fun recording these episodes - we can’t seem to get together without laughing and carrying on. However, although we may occasionally burst into friendship mode and a laugh or two, we do care deeply about the people we’re discussing, and we take the issues at hand very seriously.
In this first of 2 parts in this series, I share about growing up as 1 of 3 “feral” children in the country way out yonder in Hog Creek, miles outside of Anadarko, Oklahoma.
And I’ll share the raw truth about the challenges that came later as I navigated life as a divorced, single mom. And about the inspiration I found in my favorite Bible verse and how it prompted this Okie girl to pull herself up by her bootstraps.
Yakoke (thanks) to Chihowa (God) and to my chukka achvffa (family) for loving and supporting me.
Chahta sia hoke!
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Public Service Announcement: Y’all have to check out the Choctaw Powwow, coming up Dec 4th and 5th, 2021 in Durant, Oklahoma! You’ll get to experience the Dancer Contest, Drum Contest, Pow Wow Stickball Exhibition games and good fellowship. Feel free to post photos to my Native ChocTalk Facebook page if you get to go! https://www.choctawnation.com/powwow
My guests, Dr. Steven Aicinena and Dr. Seba Ziyanak share details from their new book, “The Native American Contest Powwow: Cultural Tethering Theory” and I think you’ll find it fascinating and informative. You’ll learn about:
• Why the powwows are actually crucial (not just social) • Can contest dancing be considered a sport? • The “stranger viewpoint” on powwows (observances by non-Natives) • Comparison of powwows to other cultures globally • Traditional powwows vs contest powwows • Are the contests spiritual or just for competition?
Let me know what you think and yakoke!
Season 1, Episode 17: “Steve & Seba Discuss Their New Book, “The Native American Contest Powwow: Cultural Tethering Theory”
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Life did not set him up for success. He didn’t have a wealthy upbringing, he suffered great loss many times over, he didn’t come from a long line of famous athletes. In fact, he was an American Indian - the most despised and discarded race in America.
What turned this despised Indian into a super star athlete (or who I consider to be a Native “superhero”)? How did he go from discarded, to receiving gifts from the Czar of Russia and the King of Sweden and even his body being fought over after his death?
His name is Jim Thorpe. And in 1912, this Native American sports super hero triumphantly bolted into his sports career by winning the Decathlon AND the Pentathlon at the Stockholm Olympics with 8,146 points (today’s current highest score is 9,126). One of his teammates once described him as “an oak tree doing a hundred yards in 10 seconds”. But he didn’t stop there. This track star also found success in football and baseball too!
But the journey was not easy. I sat down with Ashley Scott, Curator at the Jim Thorpe Home in Yale, Oklahoma to hear more about this Native American super hero - his success, the obstacles he overcame and the inspiration he brings to all people of all races from all backgrounds!
Season 1, Episode 16: “Jim Thorpe – Great American Athlete (and Native Super Hero)” Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
In this episode, my sister and I traveled to beautiful eastern Oklahoma to visit a friend of mine, Patrick Moore, Superintendent of the Choctaw Nation’s boarding school, Jones Academy in Hartshorne, Oklahoma.
Jones Academy is located at the base of the beautiful Pocahontas Mountains, surrounded by rolling hills and trees as far as the eye can see – a perfect place for this boarding school. This establishment serves Native American students from around the country who wish to continue learning about their culture, language and traditions while being surrounded by other Native kids (and the pleasing hills of eastern Oklahoma).
One of the reasons I wanted to introduce you listeners to Patrick and to hear about Jones Academy is to shed light on the fact that there are some excellent Native boarding schools in existence today. Considering the horrid treatment and cultural genocide of thousands of American Indian children over the years finally coming to light and flooding the news, I think it’s also important that we educate ourselves on the other side of the story too. Although we mourn the atrocities that occurred and we certainly will never forget the injustices, I hope we will also recognize that boarding schools like Jones Academy are a far cry from the schools of yesteryear, and are crucial establishments and an incredible experience for our Native children. It’s a place they can go to be surrounded by kids from dozens of different tribes and to continue their education around their own culture. There is much more to this other side of the story, so I hope you’ll take a listen!
Check out Jones Academy at https://www.jonesacademy.org/. Yakoke!
Season 1, Episode 15: “Jones Academy, Choctaw Nation Boarding School: Patrick Moore, (Pawnee) Discusses the Other Side of the Story” Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“The most impactful part of this decision was Justice Gorsuch saying, ‘On the far end of the Trail of Tears there was a promise’. And I think every Native that read that felt like, hey it’s about time. The US government is now going to be held to the treaties they made with our First Nations when they removed our people from their homelands”. – Kara Bacon
Friends, on July 9th, 2020, THE single most extraordinary and unprecedented Supreme Court decision in our lifetime was made for Native country. It was decided in McGirt vs. Oklahoma that Creek Nation lands would remain “Indian Country” jurisdiction. And other tribes would soon follow. This was a win – a BIG win!
But as much as we celebrated this victory, we also simultaneously looked at each other asking, “But what does it really mean - for us as Natives, for our tribe, for our justice system, for our healthcare and so on?”
To squelch the confusion, I’ve called in the best of the best – our Choctaw Nation Chief, Gary Batton and our Tribal Prosecutor, Kara Bacon. It’s important for everyone, but especially we as Chahtas to comprehend what all of this means. I highly recommend taking time to listen and soak it all in.
High fives to us all – to Indian country, to our ancestors who were swindled and lied to, and to our future generations who will hopefully carry the torch even further. Chahta sia hoke!
Season 1, Episode 14: “Choctaw Nation’s Chief Gary Batton & Tribal Prosecutor, Kara Bacon on McGirt vs. Oklahoma and About Tribal Government”
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
“Cicero shot him”, Ella stated, as her declining 91-year-old mind recalled memories aloud from her childhood. She was near death now, preparing to go home to her Creator, but not without first reliving the event that had occurred when she was just 7 years old. She was a child, too young to comprehend why Cicero would shoot “him". But who was Cicero? And who was the “him” of which she spoke?
Ella eventually peacefully passed on, her family mourning the loss of this sweet matriarch. But this great loss also included her stories leaving with her forever…or maybe not. It would be 12 years following her death that the story of Cicero was resurrected, the mystery of his victim unraveled and the beginning of a fascinating historical journey.
Keeping history like this alive is why Native ChocTalk exists today. It’s officially Native American Heritage Month and I’m grateful in this latest episode to partner with Seth Fairchild – a man also on a mission to preserve our Native stories via the Choctaw Nation’s Chahta Foundation.
Friends, even if you’re not American Indian, Seth and I would like to invite YOU to join us in preserving YOUR family’s history and stories!
Chahta Foundation: https://chahtafoundation.com/
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
It’s time to turn off the t.v., turn the lights down low and settle in for a creeeeepy episode of Native ChocTalk. But be sure to keep a blanket close by in case you need to hide underneath.
He’s said to have claws like the eagle – sharp talons in the shape of a teardrop. Natives in the U.S. say the babies alone can get up to 8 feet tall and some Canadian tribes say 15-20 feet is the norm. Some enjoy the thought of a creature whose face we stamp on a t-shirt. Others caution us to avoid the ferocious giant.
We know him as Bigfoot – the hairy, elusive beast who keeps trackers, hunters and fans busy all year long.
Hear about the origin of Bigfoot, enjoy a cameo appearance from my friends and former guests, Solomon and LaVon Tonihka, who talk about Bigfoot’s appearances in Wright City, Oklahoma. And I'll share some eerie Choctaw folklore such as the Shadow People (Nalusa Falaya) and a version of The Leflore County Bigfoot War that I wrote just for you.
Please enjoy a safe and fun Halloween but whatever you do, keep an eye out for Bigfoot and Nalusa Falaya!
Season 1, Episode 12: “It’s a Creepy Native ChocTalk Halloween! Bigfoot & Spooky Choctaw Folklore” https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
Have you visited the new First Americans Museum (FAM) in Oklahoma City? If not, it’s a must-see! Welana Queton, Curatorial Specialist, was kind enough to walk us through the meaningful layout of the museum and the story around the precious artifacts of our Indigenous past.
My sister, Stacy and I visited FAM on opening day and were in awe of the many beautiful colors – from regalia to art to feathers to jewelry to artifacts. What a breathtaking site to see that day, as Natives from across our 39 different tribes of Oklahoma were in full regalia, ready to dance, drum and sing.
I highly recommend taking some time to visit FAM and while you’re there, be sure to visit the FAM store which includes Oklahoma-centric treasures created by local artists (or by Oklahoma tribes living elsewhere). You’ll also love the children’s area filled with toys, books and unique finds by Native Americans for children of any age. So pack up the family, go visit the First Americans Museum and get ready for a new experience!
First Americans Museum: Website: https://famok.org/ Address: 659 First Americans Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73129 Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10-5, Saturday and Sunday 11-5. Closed Tuesdays
Season 1, Episode 11: “Welcome to First Americans Museum: Welana Queton, Osage/Cherokee/Creek” https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
Did you know that at one time, “Mexican bandits” road through Oklahoma’s Choctaw country and tried to take down the tribe? The Choctaws banded together and killed their enemies, allowing their bodies to float down the river.
I once spoke to my guest, Solomon Tonihka, Choctaw, about this and other stories his family had passed down over time, one ancestor to another, the traditional oral way that Native Americans have preserved their stories and history for centuries. And these are things you just won’t find in the history books.
Hear about: • Solomon as a first language (Choctaw) speaker, detailing stories in Mississippi Choctaw dialect • The Steel family homestead – a Sooner family with 40 acres right next to the Tonihka allotments • Choctaw folklore (“folklore” according to some) such as big foot, shape shifters and witches • Could there once have been mermaids in Oklahoma? • Take a ride with me around Solomon and his family’s 160 acres – their original Native land allotments • Stickball of old and the blood that was spilled nearby • The family graveyard on the Tonihka property • Banaha and Indian frybread like you’ve never heard about it before
Yakoke and enjoy!
Season 1, Episode 10: “You Won’t Find This in the History Books: Solomon Tonihka, Choctaw” https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
WARNING: Some of the stories of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People in this episode may be disturbing for some listeners so please be advised.
“Don’t let anyone tell you you’re just a stupid little Indian girl”, was the advice her father gave her many times over. And later these words would run through her mind as she had to muster strength, determination and sheer will power to survive and escape the unthinkable.
More than once, she herself was nearly deemed a missing or murdered Indigenous woman. And now she donates that strength and determination to help other Indigenous people.
Meet the Kiowa Chapter President of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP), “Fawn Tsatoke: The Kiowa Woman Who Came Back with a Vengeance”. I hope that you’ll listen with your all heart and mind and that her story she has so bravely come forward to tell will inspire you to help others too.
Praying these words over our Indigenous people, from Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV Bible):
“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.”
Season 1, Episode 9: “Fawn Tsatoke: The Kiowa Woman Who Came Back with a Vengeance” https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
He’s the Chippewa from Turtle Mountain Reservation and his name means “King of the Badlands”. He’s LeRoy Malaterre and he stays busy - from story telling to pow wow dancing and even to ballroom dancing.
Hear LeRoy’s views on: • How the movies shaped the way the world viewed Native Americans • Why his Metis language was called a “nasty” language • How his job supported his efforts for sobriety after his time in the service • Why the Chippewa cheered when Lincoln was assassinated • And more…
Season 1, Episode 8, “LeRoy Malaterre, the Chippewa from Turtle Mountain Reservation” https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
They carried our Choctaw people and supplies across hundreds of miles from Mississippi to Indian Territory. Loyal to the end, very few lived through the the rigorous 10-mile per day journey, due to lack of food, harsh weather conditions and fatigue.
They are the unsung heroes of the Trail of Tears – the Choctaw ponies.
What became of the few ponies that did survive? Find out more from my guest who I affectionately call the “Mother of the ponies”, Francine Locke Bray.
Learn about Blackjack Mountain, Antlers, Oklahoma, a couple of must-read books on the topic, and more about these unsung heroes of the Trail of Tears.
Season 1, Episode 7, “Choctaw Ponies – the Unsung Heroes of the Trail of Tears”: Francine Locke Bray, Choctaw https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
He left Wayne, Oklahoma a Choctaw farm boy and returned a fighter pilot hero. There was an air of strength and confidence about him, and he was highly respected by his community. Even generations later, people still remember “Shof” and his good reputation. (They also know him as the man who flew a plane down Main Street in Wayne, Oklahoma.)
This episode of Native ChocTalk is extremely personal to me. I sat down with my aunties and uncles (Annette, Sandra, Bill and Mark) to talk about my grandpa – my Papa Shof – the man who set a precedence for the family, teaching us by example how to work hard and to act with good character, dignity and strength. I hope you will enjoy this rather “raw” discussion amongst us (there was no editing done) and please bear with us as certain moments were a little tough to get through.
I miss my imafo (grandpa), but my family and I are determined to honor him with this podcast and to carry on the legacy he worked so hard to build.
From our family to yours, we hope you will enjoy Season 1, Episode 6, “WC Shofner: Choctaw Fighter Pilot, Family Man”.
https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
You’ll be moved by Native ChocTalk’s newest episodes (Parts 1 and 2), “Monroe Tsatoke, Descendent of Hunting Horse, a Code Talker & The Kiowa 5”: Monroe Tsatoke, Kiowa
Join us as we discuss:
• Monroe’s time as both a student and teacher at Riverside Indian School • His ancestor’s stories of Fort Sill Indian School • A brave Kiowa Code Talker • The story of a multi-tribal snowball fight • Hear about the ever-elusive “Window Breaking Bandit” • Kiowa Warrior, Hunting Horse: Fort Sill and General Custer’s journey to Little Bighorn • The Kiowa 5 (also known as The Kiowa 6) and how they set the standard for Native American Art • A set of stamps you must own! • The story of the Tin Lizzie • The Susan Peters Gallery • The Kiowa tribe: pow wows, Gourd Dance, War Dance • The Tia-piah Society of Oklahoma • A Kiowa Prayer to bring peace to your day
Season 1, Episodes 5a and 5b; Parts 1 and 2, “Monroe Tsatoke, Descendent of Hunting Horse, a Code Talker & The Kiowa 5”: Monroe Tsatoke, Kiowa: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
You’ll be moved by Native ChocTalk’s newest episodes (Parts 1 and 2), “Monroe Tsatoke, Descendent of Hunting Horse, a Code Talker & The Kiowa 5”: Monroe Tsatoke, Kiowa
Join us as we discuss:
• Monroe’s time as both a student and teacher at Riverside Indian School • His ancestor’s stories of Fort Sill Indian School • A brave Kiowa Code Talker • The story of a multi-tribal snowball fight • Hear about the ever-elusive “Window Breaking Bandit” • Kiowa Warrior, Hunting Horse: Fort Sill and General Custer’s journey to Little Bighorn • The Kiowa 5 (also known as The Kiowa 6) and how they set the standard for Native American Art • A set of stamps you must own! • The story of the Tin Lizzie • The Susan Peters Gallery • The Kiowa tribe: pow wows, Gourd Dance, War Dance • The Tia-piah Society of Oklahoma • A Kiowa Prayer to bring peace to your day
Season 1, Episodes 5a and 5b; Parts 1 and 2, “Monroe Tsatoke, Descendent of Hunting Horse, a Code Talker & The Kiowa 5”: Monroe Tsatoke, Kiowa: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
This week’s episode of Native ChocTalk is a MUST LISTEN, y’all. Rance Weryackwe and I spent part of our time recording at the University of Oklahoma campus… take a listen for the following topics:
• How Comanche hunting grounds and buffalo wallows were a significant consideration when building the University of Oklahoma campus • Hear Rance sing a cheerful Comanche Hymn (about a 3rd of the way through the episode) • Hear Rance’s decision when faced with the choice of hunting the snake or holding the snake bucket at the Apache Rattlesnake Festival Hunt • Learn about Oklahoma City’s new First Americans Museum and Rance’s contribution to the museum’s exhibits • What McGirt vs Oklahoma actually means for our tribes • What peyote means to the Comanche
“I have a strong, long connection to this land being that we’ve travelled over for centuries.” - Rance Weryackwe, Comanche
Season 1, Episode 4, https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
In this week’s episode, I’m coming to you from the stunning Choctaw Headquarters in Durant, Oklahoma where I had the pleasure of interviewing our Chief of the Choctaw Nation, Gary Batton! Chief Batton shares about some of the tragedies he has faced in his life and how his outlook and faith helped him to become what he is today. And we’ll talk about faith, family and culture – the “Choctaw spirit of looking to a better tomorrow”. You’ll also hear about our unsung heroes - the Choctaw Code Talkers and how the Choctaw people helped during the Irish Famine. I was thrilled for the opportunity to meet with the Chief, but what I didn’t anticipate was that our conversation would be more than just an interview. The Chief leads by example, living in positivity and faith and I walked away feeling encouraged, inspired and prouder than ever to be Choctaw. No matter your tribal affiliation or ethnicity, I hope you’ll also come away from this episode feeling the Choctaw spirit in your life! Yakoke. Season 1, Episode 3, https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast Chahta Foundation, https://chahtafoundation.com/
There’s a much-anticipated movie premiering in 2022 called Killers of the Flower Moon, directed and produced by Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio and an entire incredible cast of Native Americans.
Listen to this week’s episode of Native ChocTalk where I talk with an extra from the movie, Mike Mushulatubbe Simpson, Choctaw.
It’s our first episode ever, y’all! And I couldn’t be prouder to present to you this highly decorated Comanche and friend, Lonnie Henderson. Lonnie shares about his fascinating ancestral history in this episode, Captured by the Comanche. And because you can’t talk Comanche without mentioning Quanah Parker, we’ll cover some of the important aspects of his life and place in history.
And don’t forget to check us out on Facebook for photos and more information! https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
Yakoke and thanks for listening!