Casino Myths, Water Truths: How the Tribe Funds Conservation

If you think the Miccosukee are history—think again. Popeye Osceola, Secretary of the Miccosukee Business Council, joins us for a gripping conversation on sovereignty, survival, and why protecting the Everglades and Big Cypress isn’t just cultural—it’s life or death for South Florida’s water. We get real about matrilineal clans, language reclamation, brutal chapters like Indian Removal, and the modern fight against bad-faith “consultation.” Popeye cuts through stereotypes (including the wild “aren’t you all gone?” myth), explains how gaming revenue actually funds environmental stewardship, and invites all of us to seek tribal voices first when policy touches the land. Come for the history you were never taught; stay for a leader’s clarity, humor, and unshakable love for his people and the River of Grass.Got someone in mind who deserves the spotlight? Shoot us a text and let us know! We’d love to hear from you!