Ellen Bradley is a skier, scientist, filmmaker, and proud member of the Tlingit Tribe who is redefining what it means to be an Indigenous leader in today’s world. Through her work, Ellen blends tradition, technology, and storytelling to decolonize outdoor spaces and reconnect Indigenous communities to their ancestral lands. In this episode, Kara and Ellen dive into the meaning of being Indigenous in 2025, the significance of the LandBack movement, and how young Indigenous people are using social media to share their stories and spark change. You’ll hear about Ellen’s inspiring journey, including her film Let My People Go Skiing, and how she’s building bridges between cultures through advocacy and art. This episode explores identity, justice, and the power of reclaiming space, both on the slopes and in society.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies Podcast

00:50 Meet Ellen Bradley: A Multifaceted Indigenous Leader

01:35 Ellen's Journey and Contributions

03:32 Cultural Heritage and Community Work

12:58 Navigating Activism and Partnerships

22:34 Challenges and Reflections on Capitalism

28:07 Challenges of Specialization in Western Science

28:58 Indigenous Knowledge and Systemic Thinking

29:50 The Importance of Holistic Approaches

32:11 One Person at a Time: Mentorship and Internships

34:16 Scaling Up: Mountain Access Program

35:36 Entrepreneurial Mindset for Social Good

37:49 Personal Reflections on Career Choices

40:30 Land Back: Reconnecting Indigenous People to Their Lands

46:08 Breaking Down Barriers in Outdoor Spaces

51:04 The Need for Nuanced Conversations

54:35 Upcoming Projects and How to Support

57:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

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