Pow Wow Life - PowWows.com

Join me for an interview with the curator and organizers of the Indigenous Chicago project.Home to the Potawatomi, Odawa, Ojibwe, Peoria, Kaskaskia, Myaamia, Wea, Sauk, Meskwaki, and Ho-Chunk peoples, the place we now call Chicago has long been a historic crossroads for many Indigenous people and remains home to an extensive urban Native community. Yet most Chicagoans are unaware of the city’s history as a home to diverse Indigenous peoples and the vibrant Indigenous communities present today. Part of a multifaceted initiative developed in partnership between the Newberry, advisors from the Chicago Native community, and representatives from tribal nations with historic connections to Chicago, this exhibition reflects the dynamic and complex aspects of Native life in Chicago from the seventeenth century to the present. The exhibition draws largely on the Newberry's collection while also showcasing new work by contemporary Native artists, including Jason Wesaw (Pokagon Band of Potawatomi), Camille Billie (Oneida), and Jim Terry (Ho-Chunk).

Join Paul G with an interview from Tokala Black Elk from NBC's new show - Happy's Place staring Reba McIntire.Elk appeared in the limited series “1883” and also recurred in the first season of “Yellowstone.” In addition, Elk’s TV’s work includes “Outer Range,” “Lewis & Clark,” “Into the West,” “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”Elk can next be seen starring in Peter Berg’s “American Primeval” limited series for Netflix, opposite Taylor Kitsch.On the feature side, Elk got his start in “Wind River,” a role that garnered him much critical acclaim. He co-starred in “The Bygone,” “The Valley of the Gods” and “The Dark Foe,” for which he was nominated for best supporting actor at the Madrid International Film Festival. As a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and a direct descendant of Lakota holy man Black Elk, Tokala grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and speaks in several native languages.

In this video, I had the chance to sit down with the amazing filmmakers behind Reservation Redemption, a powerful documentary that explores cultural healing and prison reform within Native American communities. We dive into the heart of the film, talking about the incredible stories of redemption, how Native traditions are helping inmates heal, and what inspired them to take on this important project.We also chat about the challenges they faced while filming and the impact they hope this documentary will have in raising awareness about Native communities and prison reform. It’s a really fascinating conversation you don’t want to miss!Check out the documentary here: Reservation Redemption on PowWows.comIf you enjoyed this, don’t forget to hit that like button, subscribe for more content, and let me know what you think in the comments!

Join Paul G for an interview with Micki FreeListen to Micki Free on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/5aH6fiMaVOktSbo2CBcK5l?si=lMKzIEBGR_Klc-9FornNjAFREE has been on the cutting-edge of the music industry from the start of his career. Having been signed to a management deal with Gene Simmons and Diana Ross that launched his career, FREE joined the legendary R&B group Shalamar where he became friends with Prince. After his departure in the early 90’s, FREE continued his solo career appearing on both the stage and in the studio with iconic artists including Carlos Santana, Janet Jackson, KISS, Little Steven Van Zandt, Aerosmith, Neil Young and Bill Wyman, just to name a few. His most recent album, TURQUOISE BLUE, was released via the Dark Idol Music label distributed by Burnside Distribution / The Orchard / Sony and features guest musicians including Gary Clark Jr., Steve Stevens, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and Cindy Blackman Santana. FREE recently collaborated on a new version of the album’s single “World On Fire (Warrior Remix)” with Blackman Santana and her fellow Santana band members Karl Perazzo and Andy Vargas. Stream/download “World on Fire (Warrior Remix)” across all digital platformsNew to PowWows.comStart here - https://newpowwows.powwows.com/start-here/Learn more about Pow Wowshttps://www.powwows.com/main/pow-wow-visitors-guide/Find a Pow Wow In Your State of Provincehttps://www.powwows.com/pow-wows-in-my-state-pow-wow-calendarWatch Pow Wows Livehttps://www.powwows.com/main/watch-pow-wows-live-powwows-com

Join Paul G and special guest Ricky White.Ricky White is Anishinabe from Whitefish Bay First Nations in Ontario, Canada. He is Pizhew or Lynx Clan and a lifetime member of the renowned drum group, the Whitefish Bay Singers. As a result of growing up on an isolated reservation, Ricky retained deep knowledge of the Anishinaabe language and culture and those teachings continue to guide his spirit and work today.Over the last 22 years, Ricky has served as an Ojibwe Language and Culture Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, Executive Director of Education, and Superintendent of Schools. He was exposed to world class professional development, especially in the area of school improvement, school climate, and reaching students with whom our school systems struggle.Ricky has shifted his professional career to generously sharing the blueprints of best practices for student success and working to help turnaround schools, programs and communities. He started a consulting company fittingly called “First Nations Consultants ” and is now sharing his strategies all over Canada and the United States to inspire and unite his methods and messages for enhancing education.Ricky’s accomplishments go far beyond schools and classrooms. He was recognized as the next leader of the Anishinabe Nation of Treaty #3 (1989), Minnesota Indian Education Teacher of the Year (2001), Minnesota Indian Education Administrator of the Year (2013), and is now a sought after emcee for pow- wows, gatherings, conferences, keynote addresses, radio, television, and other public speaking engagements.

As one of the largest states in the country, California has a profound Native American heritage that spans the entire length of this 760 mile-long state. Home to over 100 tribes, California’s tribal heritage runs deep and although tourism often overlooks indigenous experiences and activities, it’s time that more travelers dedicated a portion of their trips to experience them.Visit our California Travel Guide - https://www.powwows.com/discovering-californias-rich-native-american-heritage-california-native-american-travel-guide/Whether you're drawn to immersive museums like the Autry Museum of the American West, which pays tribute to the contributions of Native American tribes, or you're eager to visit sacred sites and historical locations like Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park, the state provides an abundance of opportunities for cultural enrichment.Satisfy your palate with indigenous cuisine at restaurants like Wahpepah's Kitchen or Café Ohlone, and savor indigenous-inspired libations at breweries such as Mad River Brewing or wineries like Camins 2 Dreams. For those seeking active and educational adventures, consider jet boat tours along the Klamath River or immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of a Pow Wow, where the traditions, music, and dances of Native American communities come to life.Furthermore, annual events like the California Indian Basketweavers' Association gathering and the Indigenous People's Day Sunrise Gathering on Alcatraz Island provide unique insights into the cultural significance of these traditions and the contemporary challenges faced by Native American communities.From Pow Wows to delicious, indigenous-owned restaurants, museums, and even breweries, here are some of the best cultural experiences to have in California.

Join Paul G to celebrate 20 years of streaming Pow Wows live!Can you believe it?   We've been streaming pow wows live for two decades now!It's been a wild ride filled with incredible performances, unforgettable moments, and technological challenges. I want to highlight some of the special moments and people that helped along the way.Show Noteshttps://www.powwows.com/celebrating-20-years-of-bringing-native-american-pow-wows-to-the-world/

Join Paul G for an interview with the author and illustrator of the new children’s book - “Too Much - My Great Big Native Family”.About the book:A little boy wants a chance to shine on his own but discovers that being apart from his large and lively Native family isn’t necessarily better in this heartwarming and humorous picture book.When Russell gets a part in the school play, he lights up like a shining star—and he can’t wait to tell his big, boisterous Native family the exciting news. But catching their attention when they all get together feels impossible; no matter where they go, they seem to be too noisy, too many, and just too much!Russell decides to keep his big debut to himself and fly solo for once…but being alone may not be the answer. After all, there’s no such thing as too much love, and when he needs them most, his great big family knows how to be just enough.Order Now - https://amzn.to/48OHli4PowWows.com earns commission from Amazon.com

Today Paul G will answer your most asked questions!Are Pow Wows open to the public?Are there Pow Wows in my state or province?How can I get involved with Pow Wows?

Join Paul G with an interview with Mark Marsolais from Birch Bark Coffee!Mark is Ojibwe and a Band member of Whitefish River First Nation located on Birch Island, Ontario in the District of Manitoulin Island. As the proud founder of two First Nations-owned companies, IndiGenius and Associates Inc. and Birch Bark Coffee Company Inc., he is on a mission to make a difference in Indigenous people’s lives across Canada. He is a firm believer that with self-determination and perseverance, he can make a difference through education and awareness across our nation.

Join Paul G for an interview with Brian Young.Author and filmmaker, Brian Young is a graduate of both Yale University with a Bachelor’s in Film Studies and Columbia University with a Master’s in Creative Writing Fiction. An enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, he grew up on the Navajo Reservation but now currently lives in Brooklyn, New York. As an undergraduate, Brian won a fellowship with the prestigious Sundance Ford Foundation with one of his feature-length scripts. He has worked on several short films including Tsídii Nááts’íílid – Rainbow Bird and A Conversation on Race with Native Americans for the short documentary series produced by the New York Times. He was a participant of the 6th Annual Native American TV Writer’s Lab with the Native American Media Alliance, where he learned to write Television Scripts.

Join Paul G tonight on Pow Wow Nation Live!Tonight’s guest is Larry Yazzie from Native Pride Productions. Paul will also update you on his trips from Durant, Oklahoma for Choctaw Pow Wow and Seattle, Washington for a visit to Eighth Generation and more!About Larry YazzieLarry Yazzie is the Founder and Artistic Director of Native Pride Productions which is based in Jacksonville, FL. He is a two-time World Champion Fancy Dancer, Men’s Northern Traditional dancer, and Eagle Dancer. Larry grew up on the Meskwaki Settlement in Tama, Iowa where he learned the traditional ways of his ancestors.He founded Native Pride Productions to give back to his community and to the world. His repertoire includes performances at the Olympics, The Kennedy Center, and the Smithsonian Institute. As an international lecturer, dancer, and educator, Larry also plays the flute and hand drum and he sings as part of his repertoire. He has earned the reputation for being one of the nation’s leading experts on Native American dance and has received many accolades and awards that celebrate his work.As a solo singer, eagle dancer and men’s fancy dancer, Larry has performed around the world including in Japan, Australia, France, Ireland, Brazil, Guatemala, Republic of Moldova, and the Kingdom of Jordan. His captivating energy and enthusiasm inspires others.Native Pride Productions’ goal is to share cultural traditions through artist-in-residency workshops, performances, lectures, classroom instruction and theatrical performances enhancing access to diverse, multicultural artists for people of all ages and backgrounds. His warm, enthusiastic spirit truly reflects the beauty of Indigenous people. Following the tradition of his elders, he is giving back, and enriching the lives of all audiences for generations to come.

Join us for an insightful interview with Adrian Sutherland, a talented native musician from Canada's far north. Discover his unique blend of roots, rock, folk, and blues, influenced by his Cree culture and deep connection to the land. Learn about his recent Cree-language song and his commitment to raising awareness about issues such as contaminated water and food insecurity. Adrian shares his musical journey and the challenges faced by artists in the streaming era. Stay tuned for his upcoming shows and visit adriansutherlandmusic.com for more on this incredible artist.

Join us on Powwow Nation Live as we delve into the world of Navajo weaving with special guest Tashina Little Ben, a third-generation Diné weaver from Rock Point, Arizona. In this captivating interview, Tashina shares her personal journey of rediscovering her cultural roots and the profound connection between weaving, spirituality, and well-being. Discover the essence of Navajo weaving, the significance of natural materials, and the power of tradition. Explore the revival of Diné culture and the artistry that Tashina and other young weavers bring to this ancient practice.

November is a special month in America– Native American Heritage Month!This is a time to honor and recognize the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions of Native Americans to our society. It's a chance to learn, celebrate, and show our respect. And you don’t have to be Native to celebrate! You can participate in numerous ways and make this month meaningful, regardless of your heritage. Join Paul G to talk about 5 ways you can celebrate!Show Notes - https://www.powwows.com/how-to-celebrate-native-american-heritage-month-2/

Recently, I had the opportunity to interview two incredible authors on the Powwows podcast. Kim Rogers and Laurel Goodluck are native writers specializing in children's books that share their tribe's history and stories. It was a fascinating conversation that shed light on their personal journeys as authors and the importance of representation in literature. Kim Rogers, a member of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes, has written an array of captivating books such as "Just Like Grandma," "Letter from Bob," and "I Am Osage, How Clarence Tinker Became the First Native American General." Her stories aim to provide representation to Native children and share the rich cultural history of her tribe. Laurel Goodluck, an enrolled member of the Madan Hidatsa Erekara Nations of North Dakota and a citizen of a tribe in Alaska, shares modern Native American themes in her picture books. Through stories like "Forever Cousins," Laurel offers a unique and powerful perspective, showcasing cultural experiences in everyday life that resonate with Native children. Join us as Paul Gowder delves deep into their creative processes, inspirations, and the importance of Native representation in children's literature. Kim and Laurel will share insights into their upcoming works and shed light on the thriving community of Native authors. Show Note www.powwows.com/powwowlife94

On today's episode I recounted my incredible trip to San Francisco! As many of you know, I had the opportunity to attend the Taylor Swift concert in the city, but that was just the beginning of our amazing journey. Join me as I share the highlights of our trip and some of the fascinating native history and culture we discovered along the way. 1️⃣ Exploring Beyond the Main Attraction: When traveling, it's always exciting to venture outside the main purpose of your trip and discover hidden gems. In our case, we were able to explore Mirror Woods and Alcatraz, uncovering the rich native history and breathtaking landscapes that these sites had to offer. 2️⃣ Preservation of Native History: During our visit to Mirror Woods, a national park managed by the National Park Service, we learned about the Coast Miwok tribe and their connection to the redwood forests. The Park Service is actively working to highlight and preserve the native history of the area, making it a truly educational and immersive experience. 3️⃣ Alcatraz: Beyond the Notorious Prison: While Alcatraz is famously known as a former penitentiary, few are aware of its significance as a spiritual and meeting place for indigenous tribes, including the Miwoks. We also visited the new exhibit on the Native American occupation of the island by protestors. 👉🏼 Listen to the full episode on PowWows to hear more about our unforgettable journey and the remarkable native history we encountered in San Francisco! Show Notes www.powwows.com/powwowlife93

In this episode, host Paul G sits down with members of the Natives of the Apocalypse (NOTA) group. NOTA is a Native American performing arts group dedicated to reshaping and indigenizing theater narratives. They add a unique Native flair, whether through humor, music, or the infusion of indigenous perspectives into existing plays and musicals. NOTA's mission is not only to create new and compelling Native American theater, but also to provide a platform for Native American performers to showcase their talent and amplify their voices within the performance world. They recognize the importance of representation and are actively contributing to the indigenous storytelling renaissance that is currently taking place. Show Notes www.powwows.com/powwowlife92

Yue Begay, a Navajo transgender woman, shared her inspiring journey and insights as we explored the historical significance of the Two Spirit identity within Native tribes. We delved into the importance of educating businesses and corporations about this unique aspect of Native culture. It was a powerful and enlightening conversation that I'm excited to share with you all. Show Notes www.powwows.com/powwowlife91 Find a Pow Wow Near You https://www.powwows.com/find-a-pow-wow-near-you/ Key Takeaways from the episode: Two Spirit Identity is a Bridge: The term "Two Spirit" was created by Native American elders in the 1990s to replace a derogatory term used by colonizers. It serves as a positive and empowering way to reclaim Native LGBTQ+ culture. Two Spirit individuals serve as a bridge between the LGBTQ+ community and the larger Native American community, bringing unique perspectives and insights. Resurgence of Native Culture: Yue discussed how there has been a resurgence in individuals connecting with their Native culture, possibly due to COVID and social media. People are rediscovering their Native language, participating in traditional activities like beadwork, and embracing native storytelling through TV and books. This resurgence is fostering a stronger bond with their culture and traditions. Impactful Advocacy and Consultancy: Yue Begay's work as a program consultant and graphic artist in the public health field highlights the importance of incorporating Two Spirit people, transgender individuals, and Native people into various initiatives. Their role involves assessing intentions, providing guidance on infrastructure, addressing issues like homophobia and transphobia, and ensuring community accountability. Their efforts contribute to making organizations more inclusive and understanding.

Join Paul G for an interview with Byron Graves, an Ojibwe and Lakota author from the Red Lake Indian Reservation. Graves discussed his debut novel, "Res Ball," which delves into the world of Native American high school basketball and the universal themes of dreams, challenges, and self-discovery. This article will explore the importance of Native American representation in storytelling, focusing on the impact it has on youth identity, the growth of a cultural renaissance, and the power of inspiring others through authentic narratives. Show Notes www.powwows.com/powwowlife90 Find a Pow Wow Near You https://www.powwows.com/find-a-pow-wow-near-you/