Decolonizing the Outdoors & Reclaiming Indigenous Identity | Ellen Bradley | Skier, Scientist & Filmmaker

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices