21st Century Native Leaders: Recent Episodes

Peter Deswood

21st Century Native Leaders podcast explores the dynamics of leadership among entrepreneurs, entertainers, politicians, and activists.

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In this episode, I have a conversation with Ginger Sykes Torres (Navajo) who is a candidate for New Arizona Congressional District 1. Ginger shares her educational journey to becoming a candidate for congress. She also talks about her experiences working with the Phoenix and Native American communities.

Follow Ginger on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

You can also donate to her campaign: https://www.gingerforarizona.com

navajo #arizona #congress

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In this episode, I read Chapter 9 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter.

This book can be purchased from Amazon, use this link: https://amzn.to/33WKTC4

Thanks for listening.

navajo #navajonation #navajohistory

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In this episode, I read Chapter 8 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter. This book can be purchased from Amazon, use this link: https://amzn.to/30YZV8O

Thanks for listening.

navajo #navajonation #navajohistory

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In this episode, I chat with Duane Humeyestewa and Kyle Sumatzkuku (both Hopi). Kyle is a Native American endurance runner from the Hopi tribe in Northern Arizona recently launched a GoFundMe campaign to enable his travel and participation in the 125th Boston Marathon on October 11, 2021. The goal of the campaign is to raise funds that will cover the long trip from Moenkopi, Arizona to Boston, Massachusetts.

Duane Humeyestewa is tracking Kyle on this journey with a documentary project, stated, "As Hopi people, we have the inherent strength and resilience to run the highest mesas and hike the highest mountains, so running and finishing a marathon is a testament of that endurance built into our DNA. We can’t let anything stop us from achieving our dreams."

Link to GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/4bgege-hopi-runner-kyle-sumatzkuku-chases-a-dream?member=13654923&sharetype=teams&utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer

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In this episode, I read Chapter 7 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter.  This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Thanks for listening.

navajo #navajonation #navajohistory

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In this episode, I chat with Craig Young (Navajo) who is a math and robotics teacher in Tuba City, Arizona. Craig and I talk about his journey to becoming and educator. We also talk about how he teaches students to overcome math illiteracy. Finally, he discusses publishing an article in a book about teaching students math and science with robotics.

Links below are to follow the work he is doing at Tuba City Boarding School:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMJZE1NEExY

https://navajomathcircles.org/ https://aimathcircles.org/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeJtfjFjiwMmkhm1cDYuDw

Contact Email: arrowheadmathcircle@gmail.com

Facebook: Arrowhead MathCircle

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In this episode, I read Chapter 6 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter.  This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Thanks for listening.

navajo #navajonation #navajohistory

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In this episode, I chat with Kendall Augustine (Navajo) who is the owner of Analytical Technologies Incorporated in Farmington, New Mexico. Kendall’s business offers circuit board repair for the oil and gas industry, solar adaptation, circuit manipulation, solar generators and solar maintained street lights.

Most importantly, Kendall has 11 solar generating units that he is donating to families on the Navajo Reservation. He will even install the solar units.

Checkout his website: http://analyticaltechnologiesincorporated.com

navajo #smallbusiness #newmexico

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In this episode, I read Chapter 5 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter.  This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Thanks for listening.

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In this episode, I read Chapter 4 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter.  This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Thanks for listening.

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In this episode, I interview Jaroleen Smith (Navajo) who is the owner of The People's Homecare, PLLC. Jaroleen provides home health care options for families in the Four Corners area. Jaroleen talks about navigating the process to be recognized a Navajo priority one business. She is licensed to operate in New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and on the Navajo Nation.

Checkout their website: https://www.thepeopleshomecarepllc.com

navajo #smallbusiness #newmexico

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In this episode, I read Chapter 3 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter.  This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Thanks for listening.

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In this episode, I interview Danielle Romero (Natchitoches Tribe of Louisiana) who is the founder of There is a Cloud. Danielle's non-profit focuses on providing support for Native American communities. There is a Cloud supports non-profit organizations working in Native communities through fundraising, visibility, marketing + strategy.

Check out their website: https://www.thereisacloud.org

nonprofit #nativeamerican #podcast

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In this episode, I talk about the 3rd Stimulus Check and Tax Updates.

Thanks for following. 

Link to stimulus check calculator:

https://www.freetaxusa.com/stimulus-calculator.jsp

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In this episode, I read Chapter 2 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter. This book can be purchased on Amazon.

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In this episode, I read Chapter 1 in Hosteen Klah: Navaho Medicine Man and Sand Painter.  This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Thanks for listening.

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In this episode, I read a book I read in college that talks about Navajo history. This book can be purchased on Amazon.

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I found this short write up on Facebook, but I added some context because my family is from the Tsaile/Lukachukai, Arizona communities.

Thank you for listening.

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In this episode, Nephi Craig (White Mountain Apache/Navajo) talks with me about his path to becoming a chef and opening up Cafe Gozhoo. Nephi talks about living and cooking in other countries around the world. He also talks about his journey to overcoming addiction. Lastly, Nephi talks about being featured in the movie, Gather (https://gather.film).

Follow Nephi on all social media platforms.

chef #apache #navajo

PC: Ari Carter Craig

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In this episode, Dewayne Dale, Jr. (Navajo) talks with me about his design career and how he created designs for Keen, Leatherman, and other brands. He also talks about living 1,000 miles from the Navajo reservation during college. Lastly, we talk about his new shoe that looks like a Navajo moccasin.

Check out Dewayne's work: http://www.indigenousdezigner.com

Pre-order his shoe: https://www.rockdeep.com/products/fifth-trail?fbclid=IwAR0j8hq4_KprE4hAWc89IhBS1wyUZ9QStbGHFtEWQY0z216GVlR2g6uZw_w&variant=37176411193510

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In this episode, Loretta Sarah Todd (Cree & Metis) talks with me about her amazing career. She also talks about the movie, Monkey Beach, which is a "testament to Indigenous women’s ability to not just endure trials but emerge from them empowered."

Follow Loretta and Monkey Beach:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monkeybeachthemovie/

Website: https://www.monkeybeachmovie.com/

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9PBWP9D15k&t=2s

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monkeybeachmovie/

monkeybeach #movie #firstnations

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In this episode, Lacey Trujillo (Navajo) talks with me about how she started her career working for Nike as a Color Designer. Lacey overcame two rejections for internships and ended up landing a life changing job with Nike. She talks about working with several Nike professional athletes. Lacey is available to speak with students. She can be reached at Lacey@laceytrujillo.com or on her website http://www.laceytrujillo.com

nike #navajo #designer

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In this episode, Josh Lucio (Zuni) talks with me about financial aid for two- & four-year, graduate and doctoral degrees. Josh discusses some of the barriers to attending college and the types of scholarship American Indian Graduate Center provides.

Follow American Indian Graduate Center on all social media platforms to get updates on the scholarships.

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In this episode, Jason Allison (Navajo) talks with me about financial literacy and the importance of planning for your future. Jason and his wife own DreamCatcher Financial Strategies. Jason is available to help people prepare their finance. Call him at 480-415-5764 to attend one of his Zoom sessions. Check out their website: https://www.dreamcatcherfinancialstrategies.com

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In this episode, I talk about teaching from an equity, culturally responsive and student centered perspective. On October 25th, 2020, I presented this topic at San Juan College, in Farmington, New Mexico. 

equity #culturallyresponsive #studentcentered

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In this episode, Erickson Billy (Navajo) talks about what inspired him to start Blue Naadaa Sweets. He also talks about some of the challenges he faced opening his business, how he overcame the fear of failing, and how he is responsible for every aspect of running his business as a sole proprietor. 

Follow Blue Naadaa Sweets on Facebook and Instagram. 

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In this episode, Paulette Jordan (Coeur d’Alene Tribe) talks about her path to leadership and her platform as she is running for the United State Senate in the State of Idaho.

Paulette Jordan talks about prioritizing people over politics.

Follow Paulette on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

Paulette's webpage: https://pauletteforsenate.com

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In this episode, Jennifer Jackson Wheeler talks with the Dine Community Development Corporation (DCDC) staff about food sovereignty amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. She also shows us how she prepares Navajo kneel down bread, which is a traditional Navajo food.

I worked with Dine Community Development Corporation on this project. You can watch the video on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Wvnk4o-cgLY

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In podcast episode 130, I talk with Cyndi Frank (Navajo) who is the owner of Cynergy Dine Body Therapies in Shiprock, New Mexico. Cyndi talks about her experience opening her small business on the Navajo reservation.

Follow Cyndi on Facebook at Cynergy Dine Body Therapies.

Checkout the services Cyndi provides: http://www.dinecynergy.com

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In this webinar Brandon Francis talks with us about the Navajo Nation food system and Dine knowledge & food. Dine Community Development Corporation created this webinar. Funding was provided by the Native American Agriculture Fund.

I worked with Dine Community Development Corporation on this project. You can watch the video on Youtube: https://youtu.be/wA_ErG78Cag

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In podcast episode 129, Dr. Ernestine Chaco (Navajo) talks about how she completed her juris doctorate and medical degree simultaneously. She shares some of the specific details about each degree and provides some tips to successfully complete each degree. This is one of the most amazing stories I have heard. 

Dr. Chaco is available to speak with students. Contact her on Facebook.

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In this episode, Venaya Yazzie (Diné) talks about utilizing matriarchal power over feminism.

One of my students sent me the audio file.

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In this episode, Dr. Lloyd Lee (Navajo) talks about Navajo patriarchy. Dr. Lee is a Professor at the University of New Mexico.

One of my students sent me the audio file.

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In this podcast episode, Kelsey Dayle John and Aresta Tsosie-Paddock talk about Navajo Relocation, the impact fences have on Navajoland and how horses can give us guidance to decolonize.

A Dine College student who follows my podcast sent me the audio recording.

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In this episode, Noreen Kelly (Navajo) talks about her platform as she is running for the New Mexico State Senate for District 4.

Noreen Kelly is tódích’íi’nii. Bit’ahnii are her fathers. Haltsooí are her maternal grandfather. And Táchii’nií are her paternal grandfather.

Follow Noreen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noreen4nm/

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In this podcast episode, Homer Hubbell and Lorene Legah talk about the Blessing Way songs. 

A Dine College student who follows my podcast sent me the audio recording.

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In this episode, Brian Bradley and Farrah Begay share their experiences with COCID-19. They are from the Chilchinbeto, Arizona area the first hotspot on the Navajo Nation.

I received approval from Farrah Begay to share the audio.

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In this episode, Paul Spruhan, J.D., talks about the role of law in the Navajo Nation Since the Treaty of 1868. 

A Dine College student who follows my podcast sent me the audio recording.

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in this episode, Avery Denny, Adrian Lerma and Michael Lerma talk about how tobacco saved the world from destruction and healed the people. 

A Dine College student who follows my podcast sent me the audio recording.

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In this episode, James McKenzie (Navajo) talks about Navajo Language and Culture Revitalization. 

One of my listeners sent me the audio recording.

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In this episode, I provide some updates and talk about a possible $2,000 per month additional stimulus check for 6 months.

If you need help preparing your taxes text me at 505 330 6853.

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In this episode, I answer question about the following topics:

Accessing Get My Payment (0:43)

Payment Status (4:36) Payment Status Not Available (6:20) Bank Account Information (7:44) Locked/Status Unavailable (14:40) Error Message (16:19) Address Changes (17:18)  

IRS link: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payment-information-center#locked

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In this video I talk about the 12 types of people who might not get a stimulus check.

If you need help with your taxes, please contact me at 505 330 6853

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In this episode, Dr. Audra Platero is talking about Dine Education and language revitalization.

One of my listeners sent me the audio recording.

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In this episode I answer the following questions:

The most frequently asked question is: How much is the stimulus check?

Who qualifies as a child? Will other dependents qualify for the $500 payment?

What are the income limits? What about seniors who only receive Social Security?

What about veterans who only receive a veteran’s disability payment or benefit?

What about people on SSI or other means-tested benefits?

What about college students below 24 years of age? Will the stimulus payment be taxed?

Will the payment have to be paid back?

Will the payment be subject to garnishments or any offsets?

Who will not receive a stimulus payment? How will payments be sent?

Can I give the IRS my bank information for a direct deposit check?

Who will need to file a “simple tax return” to receive a payment?

Can I get an extra $500 for my grandchildren?

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In this episode, I explain the 4/2/2020 IRS Stimulus Check Update: When will I receive my check?

Follow my podcast. Please share.

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In this video, I answer some of the common questions small business owners are asking about the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocates $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn.

References: https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/paycheck-protection-program/

https://www.friedmanllp.com/insights/understanding-the-paycheck-protection-program

https://www.natlawreview.com/article/cares-act-and-sba-paycheck-protection-program

https://www.laboremploymentlawblog.com/2020/03/articles/coronavirus/paycheck-protection-program-cares/

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In this video I explain the 2020 Stimulus package that was approved. Follow me on this podcast site. Thank you all for listening. Peter is an accounting instructor at Dine College and San Juan College.

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In this episode Peter Deswood (Navajo) is giving a third update of the Coronavius (COVID-19) and the impact on the Navajo Nation and the Four Corners.

Links to sources: Johns Hopkins map: https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6

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In this episode Peter Deswood (Navajo) is giving a third update of the Coronavius (COVID-19) and the impact on the Navajo Nation and the Four Corners.

Links to sources: Johns Hopkins map: https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6

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In this episode Peter Deswood (Navajo) is giving a second update of the Coronavius (COVID-19) and the impact on the Navajo Nation and the Four Corners.

Links to sources: Johns Hopkins map: https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6

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In this episode Peter Deswood (Navajo) is giving an update of the coronavius (COVID-19) and the impact on the Navajo Nation.

Links to sources:

Arlyssa Bicenti's Navajo Times article: https://navajotimes.com/reznews/covid-cases-jump-to-26/

Johns Hopkins map: https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6

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The traditional Navajo perspective of the coronavirus pandemic with one of our Navajo elders. One of the podcast followers sent the audio file.

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In this short episode you can hear the Navajo horse song from Canyon De Chelly.

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In podcast episode 131, Kevin Belin (Dine) talks about the Navajo teachings regarding relationships, Monsters, and life. This is the teachings he taught before playing the Navajo Shoe Games. The Monster song was intentionally edited out because of the reverence for the song, plus Kevin said to remove the song that was about 1:08 into the presentation. 

Message me if you would like Kevin to speak with your students or organization. 

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In podcast episode 130, Peter Deswood III (Navajo) talks about setting goals at the 2020 Warrior Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

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In podcast episode 129, Peter Deswood III (Navajo) talks about the importance of financial literacy. He covers topics such as: the concept of money, the three aspects of money, the importance of money, money management, the concept of savings, and the concept of investments. Peter presented this topic at the 2020 Warrior Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Peter is a former accountant and is an adjunct accounting instructor at San Juan College and Dine College.

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In this episode, author of "The Broken Circle," Rodney Barker is talking to high school student about border town violence toward Navajo people and "Indian Rolling." More specifically, an incident where three white-male high school students murdered and mutilated three Navajo men in Farmington, NM in the 1970.

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In podcast episode 128, Desirae Jordan Wilson (Navajo) talks about how she started riding bulls. She also talks about her training that helped her ride a buffalo at the Gallup Intertribal Ceremonials. She is also part of the Indigenous Cowgirls Raising Awareness (ICRA). ICRA raises awareness for cancer and bullying, among other causes.

Follow Desirae on Facebook or Instagram. Also, follow ICRA on Facebook. Desirae is available to talk with students and she can be contact at 1008draw@gmail.comor on her social media pages.

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In podcast episode 127, Kashon Harrison (Navajo) talks about the highlights of his career, such as running in the Foot Locker National Championships and being one of the highest recruits out of the Four Corners for cross country. He also talks about balancing academics and running collegiately at the University of Colorado-Boulder (CU).

Follow Kashon on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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Honeeshgish: A Navajo Legend. Honeeshgish (fire poker) is a story told by Don Mose, Jr., illustrated by Molly Trainor, based on sketches by Don Mose, Jr., cultural consultants: Clayton Long and Brenda Whitehorse, editing and layout by Kathryn Hurst.

Produced in 2006 by Utah State Office of Education and San Juan School District Media Center.

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In podcast episode 126, Hamilton and Bertina Cadman (Dine) talk about opening Juniper Coffee and Eatery in Farmington, New Mexico. They also talk about the benefits of owning a small business and some of the struggles. They are available to help budding entrepreneurs navigate the business regulatory process.

If you are in the Farmington area, stop by Juniper Coffee and Eatery for amazing coffee and Navajo inspired meals.

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In podcast episode 125, Jerome Damon (Dine) and I talk about how and why he started DALONE Skateboards in Gallup, New Mexico. Jerome also talks about overcoming numerous challenges to start his business at 22 years of age. He said he went from being a shy kid who skated alone to owning his own business.

Follow DALONE Skateboards on Facebook and Instagram. 

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In podcast episode 124, Danielle Shay Gibbons (Dine) and I talk about two of her small businesses. Danielle owns and operates a beading business (Shining Star) and a Wellness & Fitness Studio (Asdzą́ą́ Bá Hózhónii Wellness) in Farmington, NM. She also talks about a tuxedo she beaded for Wes Studi that he wore to the Oscars. 

Follow Danielle on Facebook.

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Special Episode: Qualitative Methodology 

Using a game/dating show style, five PhD students draw from theoretical and research design by sharing their insight on two methodologies, phenomenology and grounded theory. Domonique Crosby, Kari Deswood, Douglas Lee, Abbey Racelis, and Joanne Engler are second-year doctoral students in the PhD. Higher Ed. Leadership Program through Colorado State University. To learn more about their program, visit https://www.online.colostate.edu/degrees/higher-education-leadership-phd/

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In podcast episode 123, Dakota Kay (Navajo) and I talk about two of his experiences when he was homeless so he could save money to attend college and graduate school. He also talks about playing football at Fort Lewis College. Lastly, he talks about how a student would apply to schools to become a physical therapist. Visit his Facebook for the story he wrote about his experiences.

Dakota's email for speaking engagements: dakotapkay@gmail.com

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In podcast episode 122, Kelvin Dan (Navajo) and I talk about when he became interested in pursuing a medical degree. He also talks about the process of becoming a medical doctor. Dr. Dan also explains the challenges he faces being a minority in the medical field. Lastly, Kelvin talks about how he balances his traditional Navajo beliefs and practicing medicine.

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In a special podcast episode, Kari L. Deswood (Navajo) shares what she has learned in her doctoral educational research course and explains how her research lens has evolved since starting her PhD program. Kari talks about the importance of decolonizing dominant systems and centering the voices of research participants and their communities. Kari is an Assistant Professor at San Juan College in Farmington, NM. She is wrapping up her first year as a doctoral student in CSU’s Higher Educational Leadership Program. If you want to share your research or educational journey, contact me!

Additional readings:

Ahmed, S. (2006). Queer phenomenology: Orientations, objects, others. 

Fine, M. (2018). Just research in contentious times: Widening the methodological imagination. 

Patel, L. (2016). Decolonizing educational research: From ownership to answerability. 

Smith, L. T. (2012). Decolonizing methodologies: Research and indigenous peoples  

Wilder, C. S. (2013). Ebony and ivy: Race, slavery, and the troubled history of America’s universities.

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In podcast episode 121, Rashaan Ramone (Navajo) and I talk about the history of the Fenders band. We also talk about how he started playing in the family band. Rashaan also talks about stepping up into the music scene when a member of the band did not show up. This young man has an amazing music perspective.

Follow the new Fenders II page on Facebook. 

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In podcast episode 120, Ryan Benally (Navajo) and I talk about the issues surrounding the Bears Ears National Monument. Ryan was recently appointed to serve on the Bears Ears National Monument Advisory Committee. Ryan also serves on the San Juan County Economic Development Committee and the Utah Navajo Trust Fund-Dine Advisory Committee.

Ryan can be contacted at Ryan1_84534@yahoo.com

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In podcast episode 119, Peter Deswood III (Navajo) answers questions about the red tape or bureaucracy to starting a business on the Navajo reservation and other questions about issues related to Navajo people.

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In podcast episode 118, Peter Deswood III (Navajo) answers questions about issues and life on reservations. 

Thanks for following this podcast.

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In podcast episode 117, Marisa Mike (Navajo) and I talk about the clothing and design business she started. Marisa explains the ups and downs of running a business on and off the reservation and the support she has received from Change Labs (NABIN). Marisa is one of the sponsors of the ARIZE Fashion show in Tuba City, AZ that is held on April 5-6, 2019.

Follow Marisa Mike Designs on Facebook or Instagram. 

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In podcast episode 116, Zefren Anderson (Navajo) dialogs with me about how he started weaving. He also shares some of the history of Navajo weaving and the different types of rug textiles. Zefren is part of the Dine be Iina-The Navajo Lifeway group.

Follow Zefren on Facebook. 

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In podcast episode 115, Pete Sands (Navajo) talks with me about when he started playing a guitar and how he formed his band. Pete also talks about the struggles and highlights of his music career. Pete is also in the movie Yellowstone.

Follow Pete Sands on Facebook and Instagram.

Link to his site: https://sandstradingcompany.com

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In podcast episode 114, Loren Aragon (Acoma) talks with me about how he left a promising engineering career to start his business. He said he cashed in all of his chips to focus on ACONAV. What an amazing story of overcoming obstacles to operating a business.

Follow Loren on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: ACONAV.

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In podcast episode 113, Dr. Deborah Jackson-Dennison (Navajo) talks with me about some of the challenges and successes of leading Native American schools. She also discusses why she started her consulting business: Indigenous Ingenuity. Most importantly, she talks about the importance of Native voices being heard within schools. 

Dr. Jackson-Dennison is available to consult with schools in Indian Country. Click on the link: http://www.indigenousingenuity.com

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In this special podcast episode, I read several pages from Michael Lerma's book Guided by the Mountains. In this book, Lerma examines traditional funds of knowledge and explores leadership from the Navajo perspective. Lerma's words are powerful and I recommend all aspiring leaders to read this book! You can purchase the book from Michael by emailing him at yahuacaknowledge@gmail.com. 

If you would like me to read a section of your book, email me at pd_three@hotmail.com for details.

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In podcast episode 112, Kody Dayish (Navajo) updates us on the projects he is involved with. Recently, Kody received the Best Director - Native Cinema category at the Santa Fe Film Festival. Kody also talks about the special relationship he has with his family and how they support one another. Lastly, Kody will be a supporting actor in an upcoming movie titled, My Little One.

My Little One trailer: https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2027102910707300&id=1348705508547047

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In podcast episode 111, Stephanie Benally (Navajo) talks about the work she is doing to win the 2019 Casey Excellence for Children Award. Stephanie is a Native American Specialist for the Utah Foster Care system. She advocates for Native youth to placed in Native American homes. She shared that there are only about 10 Native American foster families to serve 118 Native American foster children in the State of Utah. 

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In podcast episode 110, Loren Anthony (Navajo) talks about why he started Chizh for Cheii. Loren also talks about overcoming drug and alcohol addiction and how he started delivering wood for elders in his community. Lastly, he stated, "it's always been about helping people and selling hope."

Follow Loren or Chizh for Cheii on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

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In podcast episode 109, Pfawnn Eskee (Navajo) talks about how she started We Are Navajo. She also shares some of the challenges of how she started her non-profit. Lastly, Pfawnn talks about some of the challenges in the mental health field on the Navajo reservation. 

Follow We Are Navajo on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. 

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Special episode: Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer give their weekly update. One of my listeners sent me the audio file they recorded. 

Photo: Jonathon Nez's Facebook

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Oversight Hearing on Missing and Murdered: Confronting the Silent Crisis in Indian Country. Testimony from Delegate Amber Crotty, Ms. Patricia Alexander, and Ms. Kimberly Loring-Heavy Runner. In Washington DC, December 12th, 2018.

PC: Jourdan Bennett-Begaye

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In podcast episode 108, Ahsaki Baa Lafrance-Chachere (Navajo) talks about how she started her cosmetic and luxury skincare business. She also shares some of the challenges and successes of her journey. Lastly, she discusses the impact her masani (grandma) made on how she lives her life and operates her business.

Follow her on Facebook and her website: https://www.ahshibeauty.com

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In this special podcast episode, former Navajo Nation President-Dr. Peterson Zah talks about protecting the Permanent Trust Fund. The Permanent Trust Fund is currently valued at $3.2 billion. The initial investment was about $45 million back in the 1980s. About 90% of the speech is in Navajo.

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In podcast episode 107, Forrest Goodluck (Navajo/Mandan/Hidatsa/Tsimshian) talks about how he started acting, he explains the audition process and how he prepares for roles. Forrest also talks about his role in the movie Indian Horse. Indian Horse will be showing in the United States in December 2018. Forrest has appeared in: Indian Horse, The Revenant, The Miseducation of Cameron Post, and Mud to name a few.

Checkout my review of Indian Horse: https://goo.gl/UskRqV

PC: Elevation Pictures

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In podcast episode 106, Alray Nelson (Navajo) talks about how he helped establish Diné Equality-an organization advocating for a safe, supportive and inclusive home for the LGBTQ community. Alray talks about his identity, how intersectionality impacts his work, and the message he is conveying. Alray explains some of the issues Native LGBTQ face on a daily basis, including the impact of the Navajo Nation Marriage Equality Act.

Follow Diné Equality at https://www.equalitynavajo.org  or on Facebook.

Alray is available to present to organizations to help spread awareness. 

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In this special podcast episode, former Navajo Nation President Albert Hale talks about Local Empowerment or Local Governance. Where the decision-making power is at the local chapter level. Local empowerment was the foundation of the Kayenta Township. About 90% of the talk is in Navajo.

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In this special episode, Dr. Wilson Aronilth, Jr. (Navajo) talks about The Sacred Footprint of the Diné. The audio recording was sent from a friend and was recorded at Diné College in Tsaile, Arizona. I hope you enjoy these Navajo teachings.

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In podcast episode 105, Harold Bennally (Navajo) talks about his ultra-marathoning career and how he started directing ultra-marathon events on the Navajo Reservation. He also talks about starting the Canyon X Half Marathon in Lechee, Arizona. He said there are only 150 spots available for the Canyon X that will occur January 5th, 2019.

Follow Harold on Facebook, Instagram or Strava. 

PC: Red Earth Running Co.

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In this special episode, you will hear Jonathon Nez and Myron Lizer talk about their campaign and their platform. This was from their rally in Chinle, Arizona. 

PLEASE GET OUT AND VOTE!!!

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In this special episode, there are various speeches given by leaders from across the Navajo Nation. This was from the Big Rally in Window Rock, Arizona. 

PLEASE GET OUT AND VOTE!!!

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In podcast episode 104, Kevin Belin (Navajo) shares some of the Navajo Shoe Games teachings and songs. Kevin is a Navajo Language and culture instructor in Crownpoint, NM. Kevin is available to teach the Navajo Shoe Games.

Follow Kevin Belin on Facebook.

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In podcast episode 103, Adrian Lerma (Navajo) & Michael Lerma (P'urhépecha) talk about starting Yahuaca Knowledge Distribution (YKD). We also talk about how the Navajo teachings were part of the design process for their business. Michael talks about some of the articles and books he's published. Lastly, YKD focuses on blending their family with their entrepreneurial spirit.

Follow their work on Facebook.

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For those of you that missed the debate.

Navajo Nation Presidential debate between Jonathon Nez and Joe Shirley, Jr. at Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, NM.

The audio was pulled from a friend's Live Facebook feed.

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For those of you that missed the debate. Navajo Nation Vice Presidential debate between Myron Lizer and Buu Nygren at Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, NM.

The audio was pulled from a friend's Live Facebook feed.

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In podcast episode 102, Daangoiina Haven (Navajo) talks about the highlights of her career and how she went from running at Ganado, Arizona to becoming the number one runner for Arizona State University. She also talks about the small details about running collegiately and how she balances her academics and atheletics. 

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In podcast episode 101, Dr. Lee Francis IV (Pueblo of Laguna) talks about the highlights of his career and how & why he created Native Realities, Red Planet and Indigenous Comic Con. He discusses the success and challenges of the publishing industry.

Follow Lee's work: 

https://www.nativerealities.com

https://www.redplanetbooksabq.com

https://www.indigenouscomiccon.com

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In podcast episode 100, Buu Van Nygren (Navajo) talks about the highlights of his career, what he thinks is an effective leader, the future of the Navajo people, and the Navajo concepts: taa hwo aji teego, ajooba’, k’é’hwindzin, and hozhó.

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In podcast episode 99, Shaun Martin (Navajo) explains how he started running, coaching and promoting fitness. He also talks about the importance of a good diet and how to avoid overtraining. Lastly, he shares his strategies for building a successful cross country program. Checkout the film 3100: https://3100film.com

This episode is sponsored by the Northern Edge Casino. Checkout Tracy Lawrence in concert September 22nd, 2018. Doors open at 7 pm. VIP seats $35 and GA $25.