Natural Thoughts and Talks

This conversation has been a long time coming.My uncle Wacy Weeks and I hadn’t spoken in several years before sitting down for this episode. That history made this conversation different. Wacy opens up about his battle with addiction and what it has taken to navigate life as a father, leader, friend, and member of the Fort Peck Tribes.We talk honestly about family, healing, culture, responsibility, and some of the ideas we share for strengthening our communities throughout Indian Country. We also discuss the importance of practicing our culture—not simply talking about preserving it, but actually living it and passing it forward.More than anything, this episode is about reconnection. It’s a conversation between family about where we’ve been, what we’ve learned, and what we hope to build for the generations coming after us.Love you uncle

This episode is a bit of an NTT throwback. We originally recorded this conversation with Myltin Bighorn a few months ago, and after sitting on it for a while, I knew it deserved to be brought back out.Myltin is a rising young Native entrepreneur and youth advocate with strong ties to his community and culture. We sat down to talk about mindset, discipline, positivity, leadership, and the responsibility that comes with trying to represent your people well.At the heart of this episode is a conversation between two young Native men trying to become better leaders, friends, community members, and human beings.It’s about staying grounded in where you come from while continuing to push yourself toward where you know you can go.Thanks for sharing Myltin talk real soon!

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, I sit down with Khalil—an educator, professor, community leader, and someone I’ve been fortunate to call on for guidance and friendship.Khalil’s story is especially powerful because his connection to his Native roots came later in life. Through years of discipline, research, and involvement within the American Indian community, he was able to trace his genealogy and reconnect with his roots through the Fort Peck Tribes.We talk about identity, education, community, leadership, and what it means to continue discovering who you are throughout your life. Khalil is someone who consistently shows up for the people around him, encourages others to reach their fullest potential, and brings plenty of laughter along the way.This conversation is about finding where you come from—and using that knowledge to help build where you’re going.Thanks for coming on uncle talk to you soon!

What does it mean to find your way back to culture, community, and purpose?In this episode, I sit down with Melissa, a passionate Native leader, dancer, and community advocate whose work is centered on strengthening Indigenous identity and creating opportunities for future generations. Melissa shares her journey growing up, the importance of reconnecting with culture, and the deep responsibility she feels to carry her family’s teachings forward.We talk about the power of powwows, wearing regalia with purpose, honoring our ancestors, and why preserving Indigenous traditions is more important than ever. Melissa also opens up about her nonprofit work, the workshops and cultural programs she leads, and her unwavering commitment to investing in Native youth so they grow up proud of who they are and where they come from.This conversation is about more than tradition—it’s about healing, leadership, and ensuring that the next seven generations inherit a stronger, healthier, and more connected Indigenous future.Thank so much Melissa cant wait to see you very soon!

In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Tex Hall for an in-depth conversation about leadership, service, and building a stronger future for Indian Country.Coming from a long line of hardworking, dedicated leaders in his community, Tex shares the experiences that have shaped his life—from agriculture and education to tribal government and public service. As a former Tribal Chairman and a passionate advocate for youth sports, he has spent decades investing in the next generation of leaders, believing that strong communities are built by developing strong young people.Throughout our conversation, Tex reflects on both the successes he has been blessed to experience and the challenges that still face Tribal Nations today. He speaks openly about the importance of hard work, cooperation, discipline, and long-term thinking as the foundation for creating lasting opportunities for future generations.Whether you’re interested in Native leadership, economic development, agriculture, education, or simply learning from someone who has dedicated his life to serving others, this is a conversation filled with wisdom, perspective, and practical lessons.Thank you, Tex. I truly appreciate you taking the time to share your story, your experience, and your vision for the future. Can’t wait to chat again real soon.

Dr. Nat joins the show to talk about her family values growing up and as a parent. the importance of community and how her run for office can help prioritize the traditional values found across all of Montana. Thanks for taking the time to record mom! Love you

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Michael and Venture discussed the importance of decolonizing Indigenous communities and building human capital. They explored how traditional Indigenous values, such as sharing and community care, have been lost or undervalued in modern society. Michael shared his experiences as a Native American veteran and his desire to see more unity among Indigenous peoples. They discussed the need to stop allowing non-Indigenous people to define what it means to be Indigenous. The conversation concluded with Michael suggesting potential guests for future episodes, including his niece Kat Warren and other young Indigenous women making significant academic and professional achievements.

Morningstar shared her journey from being an reluctant aunt to becoming a mother of three, including her experiences with foster care, addiction, and cultural identity as a Black and Native American woman. She discussed how her grandmother's wisdom and cultural teachings helped her overcome drug and alcohol addiction at a young age. Morningstar also described her current focus on building a foundation for her children through entrepreneurship and creating a supportive home environment. The conversation concluded with Morningstar recommending several people in her community for future interviews, including a carver and her best friend who helped establish a community garden.

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Venture interviewed Clayton Jones, a Portland resident who shared his passion for craft beer, cooking, and camping. They discussed Clayton's detailed approach to enjoying food and drink, his early experiences working with mentally ill individuals, and his current job at the airport. Clayton highlighted the importance of treating people with kindness and appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Thanks so much for chatting Clay! See you soon.

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Venture interviewed Steven Pearson, an artist and professor from Pennsylvania, to discuss his artistic journey and teaching experiences. They explored Pearson's current art projects within the painting world, as well as his teaching approach at McDaniel College, where he emphasizes the importance of process over product and encourages students to experiment with different media. Pearson shared insights on the value of art, the role of boredom in creativity, and the significance of allowing students to explore their ideas freely. They also discussed the challenges and rewards of teaching art, including the satisfaction of seeing students develop their skills and pursue further education. The conversation highlighted the ongoing nature of artistic growth and the importance of maintaining a humble and open-minded approach to creativity.

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Venture interviewed Morris Jones, a track and field coach at Cerritos College, to discuss his experiences growing up in Southern California during the Civil Rights era, his coaching philosophy, and his approach to mentoring student-athletes. Morris shared his journey from a challenging upbringing in a segregated community to becoming a successful coach who emphasizes building strong human capital and fostering personal growth beyond athletics. They discussed the importance of community, cultural preservation, and the role of education in empowering individuals to overcome systemic barriers. Morris also highlighted the impact of the crack epidemic on Black communities and the need for collective action to address social issues. The conversation concluded with Morris encouraging listeners to speak truthfully, value knowledge, and work towards creating a more harmonious society.

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Venture and Daniel discussed their experiences living in different environments, particularly comparing urban life in Baltimore and Los Angeles to rural life in Montana. Daniel shared his love for nature and community, while Venture described his transition from city life to living on the Fort Peck Tribes in Montana. They explored themes of freedom, ownership, and connection to the land, discussing how these concepts differ between urban and rural settings. The conversation touched on the importance of traditional skills, star gazing, and cultural preservation. They also discussed the potential for future episodes to include a roundtable format with multiple voices sharing their perspectives.Venture shared his experience of moving from urban Los Angeles to rural Montana, explaining how the different lifestyle and social dynamics have affected him. He described the contrast between city life, where people often have access to multiple options for dining and entertainment, and rural life, where resources are more limited but community bonds are stronger. Venture emphasized the importance of balance in both urban and rural settings, drawing on his grandfather's wisdom about the cyclical nature of life. He also discussed the challenges of socializing in a small town, highlighting the simplicity and close-knit community that characterizes rural life.Thanks so much Daniel! Can't wait to see you soon.

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Venture interviewed Jessenia, a hairstylist from Las Vegas who recently opened her own salon suite specializing in textured hair. Jessenia shared her journey from a career in hospitality to becoming a stylist, including the financial and personal sacrifices she made to pursue her passion. They discussed the importance of humility, self-discovery, and the challenges of balancing career and family life. She highlighted the value of journaling and self-reflection in personal growth. Jess and Venture discussed personal growth and the challenges of balancing self-criticism with self-acceptance. Jessenia shared her struggle as a perfectionist and her journey towards delegating tasks and trusting others, while Venture reflected on the importance of receiving love and support. They explored themes of giving and receiving help, the complexities of interpersonal relationships, and the development of discernment over time.Thanks so much Jess talk soon!

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Venture and Dr. TJ Reed discussed the upcoming Cal State Long Beach Pow Wow and the importance of cultural preservation. They explored the concept of abundance mindset versus scarcity mindset, particularly in Indigenous communities. Dr. Reed shared his experiences as a teacher and leader in restorative justice, emphasizing the importance of humility and community healing. They also discussed the significance of traditional regalia and beadwork, with Dr. Reed explaining the meaning behind his own regalia. Traditional knowledge and sustainable living practices, particularly focusing on Indigenous philosophies of abundance and harmony with nature. Dr. shared his experiences with traditional gardening techniques and tribal hunting practices, emphasizing the value of using every part of a deer and living in balance with natural resources. Venture reflected on the confidence that comes from internalizing traditional knowledge and the contrast between urban and natural living environments. Always good to talk to you TJ see you soon brother!

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Stephen and Venture discussed the importance of not running from failure and the value of perseverance. Stephen shared his personal experiences, including his time working on a Native American reservation in Montana, which provided him with a unique perspective on rural reservation life and the struggles faced by Native communities. They also talked about the importance of self-reflection and creating quiet time for personal growth. Stephen recommended several resources for personal development, including podcasts and nature sounds. Stephen and Venture discussed the importance of collaboration and trust in creating value, emphasizing that failures can provide valuable lessons. Stephen shared his personal experience of learning from failures and the importance of trusting oneself. Thanks so much Stephen can't wait to see ya soon!

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Michael Davis, known as Mikey the Pizza Man, discussed his mobile pizza business in Southern California. He shared his journey of transforming a horse trailer into a pizza kitchen, offering high-quality Neapolitan-style pizzas with convenience similar to chain restaurants. Michael emphasized his passion for building personal connections with customers and creating a comfortable, accessible dining experience. He also highlighted the importance of activity, discipline, and taking care of people in business. The conversation touched on Michael's background as a pizza enthusiast and his transition from working at a gun store to pursuing his passion for pizza. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities and growth his business has provided, attributing it to his personal experience with religion and how it influences his family life. He emphasized that following God's will is crucial and described the Bible as a guide for life, though interpreting it requires discernment and community support. Michael highlighted the challenges of living a Christian life, contrasting it with the desire for ease and comfort, and expressed his belief that true riches come from spiritual growth and fulfilling God's purpose.Thanks so much Mikey good to see you talk soon brother!

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Venture interviewed Kae, a dog trainer from Inglewood, California, who runs KaeK9 Academy. They discussed Kae's journey in dog training, his business growth over the past four years, and his approach to training using e-collars. Kae shared his experiences with clients, the importance of maintaining consistent training, and how he applies his dog training skills to parenting. They also talked about Kae's upcoming plans to expand his business with a Sprinter van and a K9 ranch. The conversation covered topics such as backyard breeding, the benefits of patience in dog training, and the role of spirituality in Kae's professional life. Venture and Kae exchanged insights on the importance of attention to detail in dog training and the parallels between raising dogs and children.Thanks Kae can't wait to see ya soon!

In this episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, Venture interviewed Cole Hanks, a basketball coach from Wolf Point, Montana, who shared his personal journey with mental health and his experiences coaching young athletes. Cole discussed his struggles with anxiety from a young age and how he eventually sought therapy and found coping mechanisms like running marathons to manage his mental health. He emphasized the importance of open communication and support from his wife in maintaining a healthy marriage while balancing coaching responsibilities. Cole also highlighted the strengths and resilience of young people in rural Montana, expressing hope that more people would return to their communities. The conversation touched on the challenges of modern life, including technology's impact on creativity and the value of traditional skills.Thanks so much Cole can't wait to see you soon!

John Sirois is a dedicated father and community leader from the Colville Indian Reservation, an enrolled member of the Okanagan and Wenatchi Bands of the Confederated Tribes. Born and raised in Omak, Washington, he received a strong cultural foundation from his grandmother and extended family that continues to guide his work today. John has applied both his academic training and cultural roots throughout his career in tribal government, working in economic development, renewable energy, land management, policy, and cultural revitalization. As former Chairman of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, Sirois advanced a comprehensive leadership vision grounded in sovereignty and self-determination. On the national level, he has served as Chairman of the Indian Land Tenure Foundation Board, supporting Tribal Nations in reclaiming management and control of their historic lands. Through his leadership, he continues to advocate for the rights of sovereign Tribal Nations and to build a stronger future for his people and Native communities across the country.Thanks so much for sharing John I can't wait to see you again real soon!

Sarah, the founder of Sarahtonin Massage Therapy discussed her rewarding experience as a massage therapist, highlighting improvements in clients' physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. She emphasized the importance of the mind-body connection, explaining how clients' thoughts can affect their ability to relax during a session. Sarah also shared her approach of tailoring techniques to each client's needs and addressing their unique challenges. She highlighted her decision to return to mobile massage services, driven by client preferences and a realization that her personal presence was crucial to her business's success. Sarah also mentioned a more flexible, client-centered approach, while acknowledging the challenges of balancing different clients needs. Additionally, they explored the concept of personal growth and the importance of adapting advice to fit individual needs, rather than trying to copy others' success. Venture inquired about the appeal of Sarah's work and the culture she creates, which draws people to her.Thanks so much Sarah can't wait to see you soon!IG: Sarahtoninmt

In this special episode of Natural Thoughts and Talks, I sit down with three respected leaders of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes for a powerful conversation rooted in memory, culture, and responsibility. Each guest shares reflections from their childhood, offering insight into the teachings, values, and lived experiences that shaped who they are today and how those lessons continue to guide our people.Together, we talk about the importance of community, unity, and using our strengths collectively to build a tribe that will endure for future generations. This conversation is a reminder that when we work together—honoring our elders, uplifting our youth, and staying connected to our culture—we don’t just preserve our way of life, we create the foundation to help and inspire people far beyond our own community.Thank you guys so much see you real soon!

Cree and Venture shared their personal journeys in reconnecting with Indigenous cultural practices, including beadwork, powwow dancing, and traditional regalia, while discussing the therapeutic and community-building aspects of these activities. They explored the challenges of maintaining cultural traditions in modern contexts, including systemic barriers faced by Native American communities and the importance of personal growth and resilience. These two discussed the importance of developing coping skills and promoting wellness in Indigenous communities, emphasizing the need to reconnect with cultural practices rather than relying solely on Western medicine. Venture shared his personal experiences reacclimating to his tribe and the impact of his presence as a role model for younger Indigenous individuals. Both agreed that while traditional practices are crucial, a blend of cultural and modern approaches might be necessary for the future success of Indigenous communities.Thank you so much Cree we can't wait to see you again soon!IG: cree_lulack

Venture and Kenya discussed their shared experiences of navigating multiple cultural identities, with Kenya being Afro-Indigenous and Venture having a strong connection to Native American culture. They explored how social media can both amplify and challenge their cultural expressions, with Kenya sharing her experience of receiving hate comments for celebrating her dual heritage. They discussed the importance of cultural identity and how it should be rooted in tradition while remaining dynamic and open to influences, emphasizing that culture carries power when it is actively practiced.Thank you so much Kenya talk soon hope to have you back sooner rather than laterIG kenyakmb

Rebecca Hinderer is a talented entrepreneur and the owner of Let’s Yolk About It, one of the best brunch spots in Long Beach, California. Beyond the food, Rebecca is deeply passionate about building culture, community, and a strong team rooted in respect and shared purpose. She leads with a big heart, creating an environment where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow—both inside and outside the kitchen. In this episode, we talk about her journey as a business owner, the importance of intentional leadership, and how pouring into people is just as important as building a successful brand. Thanks so much Bex we will see you real soon!IG: letsyolkaboutitIG: venture_oneal

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Mary Clark, a rising Native American physical therapist whose roots run deep in the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of rural Montana. Dr. Clark represents a new generation of Native health professionals driven by purpose, compassion, and a commitment to lifting up those along side her.From her early days growing up on the reservation to earning her doctorate in physical therapy, her journey is shaped by hard work, cultural identity, and an unwavering dedication to serving her community. Today, she’s focused on empowering local youth, addressing health disparities, and bringing high-quality, culturally-grounded care back home.Her story is one of resilience, representation, and the belief that healing goes beyond the clinic — it starts with community. Tune in to hear how Dr. Clark is using her education, her passion, and her cultural strength to build a healthier future for Northeast Montana and beyond.Thank you so much Dr. Mary can't wait to see you soon!@_mlclark22

Makenna and Venture shared their personal journeys of discovering community and cultural connections, particularly through music and Indigenous culture, while discussing the challenges of authenticity and self-confidence in their professional lives. They explored their creative processes and approaches to content creation, including Venture's documentary-style work and Makenna's musical projects, while discussing the importance of cultural heritage and community involvement.Venture shared his experience of creating content, emphasizing the authenticity and effort behind seemingly spontaneous moments. He described a challenging recording experience in Montana, where technical difficulties led to the release of unpolished footage, which was well-received by the audience. Venture also reflected on his personal journey, highlighting the importance of family and the realization that he did not have to choose between creative pursuits and family time.Makenna and Venture discussed the importance of unity and collaboration across different cultural and racial groups in America. Venture emphasized that culture, not color, should be the focus, and highlighted the need for diverse partnerships to achieve common goals. They agreed that working together and leveraging cultural strengths can lead to positive outcomes for all communities.Thank you so ,much Makenna can't wait to see you soon!

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Mary Clark, a rising Native American physical therapist whose roots run deep in the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of rural Montana. Dr. Clark represents a new generation of Native health professionals driven by purpose, compassion, and a commitment to lifting up those along side her.From her early days growing up on the reservation to earning her doctorate in physical therapy, her journey is shaped by hard work, cultural identity, and an unwavering dedication to serving her community. Today, she’s focused on empowering local youth, addressing health disparities, and bringing high-quality, culturally-grounded care back home.Her story is one of resilience, representation, and the belief that healing goes beyond the clinic — it starts with community. Tune in to hear how Dr. Clark is using her education, her passion, and her cultural strength to build a healthier future for Northeast Montana and beyond.Thank you so much Dr. Mary can't wait to see you soon!@_mlclark22

Venture and Gabriela discussed her background, including her Mexican heritage and Native American roots. Gabriela shared her family history and upbringing in Los Angeles. Venture explained how he had been meaning to have Gabriela on his show for over two years and finally got the chance. They discussed Venture's recent experiences with beadwork and traditional female-dominated arts, which led him to focus more on strong female voices in his show.Gabriela discussed her upbringing and the impact of verbal abuse and trauma, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and communication in relationships. She expressed a desire to balance her masculine and feminine roles, highlighting the need for mutual understanding and awareness between partners. Venture encouraged Gabriela to focus on present achievements while maintaining an outlook on future goals, suggesting a balanced approach to personal and professional development.See you soon!!

Kandace, a young yoga instructor from Oahu, Hawaii, joined the podcast to share her journey of spiritual alignment and personal growth. She recently returned from Asia and connected with Venture through social media, leading to this podcast appearance. Kandace discussed her interest in continuing to develop her digital brand, her Cherokee heritage, and her ongoing journey of self-discovery and ancestral healing.Venture and Kandace discussed their experiences with personal growth and cultural connections, particularly in Hawaii. Kandace shared her reflections on returning to Hawaii after time spent on the mainland and in Asia, expressing excitement about the fresh start and new perspective it offered her. She described the impact of indigenous practices and community involvement on her sense of belonging and understanding of herself. Venture inquired about Kandace's experiences in Hawaii, noting similarities between the indigenous culture there and his own experiences with certain places. Kandace emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and the land, highlighting how these actions have deepened her connection to the environment and people around her.Kandace shared her experiences of feeling lonely and isolated, both in solo travel and during her upbringing in St. Louis, where she attended Catholic school and felt limited by a single perspective. She emphasized the importance of vulnerability and seeking help when needed, while also learning to find lessons in every experience.Thank you so much for jumping on the pod Kan you have such a beautiful soul talk soon!@kzierch

Venture and Michael discussed the growth and evolution of Michael's barber shop in Belmont Shore, which has been operating since 1932. Michael shared his journey from becoming a barber 15 years ago to eventually taking over the shop several years ago, highlighting how he built a diverse team of 18 barbers and navigated challenges during COVID-19. They reflected on the shop's cultural significance and Michael's personal growth as a leader, emphasizing the importance of resilience and learning from trials.Venture and Michael discussed their backgrounds and experiences, particularly focusing on Venture's return to Montana to help maintain cultural heritage and family legacy. Venture shared how he built a successful investment firm while maintaining connections to his Native American roots, and explained how he was called back to Montana by family to help with community matters. The conversation highlighted their shared experiences of moving between different cultural environments and maintaining personal identities while building professional success.Thanks so much brother cannot wait to chat again soon!@michaelbarbering

Brenna and Venture caught up on personal and professional updates, discussing Brenna's growth as a voice and camera actor, and Venture's reflections on personal development through hosting the show with diverse guests. They explored topics including acting techniques, self-acceptance, and the importance of authenticity in creative expression, while sharing personal experiences and career inspirations. Brenna discussed her journey towards self-acceptance and confidence, sharing her struggles with self-consciousness and body image issues. She described how societal standards and comparisons with peers affected her self-perception, particularly during her teenage years. Despite these challenges, Brenna eventually developed strategies to build confidence, including self-affirmations and embracing her unique qualities. The conversation highlighted the importance of self-acceptance and the ongoing nature of personal growth. Thank you so much Brenna talk soon!@brennathornton

On this special episode of the podcast, I had the honor of welcoming my mother Dr. Natalie Weeks O’Neal—after more than 300 episodes in. We dove deep into conversations about community involvement, the future of our indigenous communities, healthcare challenges, and the importance of strong family values. It’s a heartfelt discussion about staying tight-knit, working hard, and always leveraging the support and resources around us. Tune in for an inspiring chat that blends wisdom, family, and community [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Beef, a devoted husband, proud father, and respected leader within the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of Montana. Beyond being a hard-working businessman, Beef embodies what it means to lead by example—balancing family, community, and personal growth with unwavering dedication. His story reflects the power of discipline, integrity, and the daily pursuit of becoming the best version of oneself. Through his words, we hear not only the heart of a leader, but the spirit of a man deeply rooted in his people and his purpose. Thank you uncle talk real soon!

We’re honored to welcome Peter “Tonto” Dupree, a respected leader of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes in Montana, to the podcast. Tonto’s wisdom, strength, and lifelong commitment to his people embody the true spirit of leadership and community. In this episode, he shares powerful stories about his journey, the importance of cultural preservation, and the values that continue to guide our people forward. We’re deeply grateful to have him join us and share his voice, experience, and vision for the future of Indian Country.

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with my uncle, Nakoa Heavyrunner — a celebrated artist, accomplished drummer, and respected Indigenous leader from the great state of Montana. Nakoa has dedicated his life to preserving, sharing, and evolving Native culture through his creative work and community leadership. We talk about his artistic journey, the power of music and drumming in bringing people together, and his ongoing efforts to uplift the next generation. This conversation is a heartfelt look at what it means to honor tradition while inspiring change. Tune in for stories, wisdom, and cultural pride from a man who continues to make a powerful impact in his community and beyond. Thanks uncle hope to have you back real soon!

This retro 1970s powwow intertribal song carries the voice of an elder from Montana’s American Indian community, echoing both tradition and timeless spirit. Rooted in the drumbeat of the people, it honors the strength of the culture, the resilience of the community, and the wisdom passed down through generations. With each note, it pays homage to the ancestors who kept the songs alive, while offering a gift of pride and connection to the generations yet to come. This recording is not only a reflection of a powerful moment in time, but also a reminder that the heartbeat of the people continues forward, uniting past, present, and future.

Venture sits down with Yaya, a fitness enthusiast and teacher from near Seattle, about her passion for fitness. Kaelynn explains that she fell in love with fitness after playing competitive softball, finding it essential for her mental health and enjoying pushing her body. They discuss the growing trend of women lifting heavy weights and how regular exercise helps balance their daily lives, with Yaya mentioning that the gym community has become like a second home and a stress reliever after her workday teaching 11 and 12-year-olds.Thanks so much Yaya can't wait to see you soon!

Sarah shared her personal journey of loss and recovery, which led her to pursue a career in grief counseling. She highlighted the lack of mental health resources on her reservation and the challenges faced by indigenous communities in accessing support for grief and trauma. Sarah emphasized the collective and compounding nature of indigenous grief, often exacerbated by frequent losses and a lack of time for proper processing. She described her efforts to create accessible grief support services on her reservation, including initiatives like providing staff with time for counseling sessions.

Little Spider shared his journey of learning and teaching grass dancing, highlighting the appreciation he has received from elders and the positive impact it had on bringing back memories of traditional ways. They described grass dancing as a middle ground between fancy and Northern styles, and expressed gratitude for his mentors who have helped him understand the history and techniques of the dance. Little Spider mentioned that their style was recognized as old-fashioned, which they embraced, and they were happy to have touched many people with their dancing.

In this episode of Smoke Signals, Venture interviews Donovan Archambault, an 86-year-old resident of the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation in North Central Montana. Donovan shares his life story, from being born in 1939 to his current age. He discusses the significant changes he has witnessed throughout his life, including the evolution of technology, culture, and society. Donovan expresses concern about the social ills prevalent in his community, such as alcoholism, drug abuse, and sexual abuse. He emphasizes the need to learn from the past and work towards a better future.

Kostan shared his journey to becoming a lawyer, initially inspired by his grandmother's involvement in tribal affairs. He realized the importance of understanding legal issues affecting his community and decided to pursue law school. Kostan emphasized the significance of community and his role within it. Venture shared a personal vision he had, which involved a sense of community and responsibility for future generations.

Aaron shared his recent realization about the importance of family and taking care of his children. He stepped down from his full-time work to a part-time role, which allowed him to spend more time with his family and be more present in their lives. This change brought him a sense of relief and happiness, and he emphasized the value of being there for his children. He also highlighted the importance of having a supportive partner in his life.

Arlie Neskahi, shared his life experiences and cultural insights, emphasizing the importance of Native American traditions, spirituality, and connection to nature. He discussed the challenges faced by Native American communities, including historical persecution and the impact of boarding schools, while highlighting the resilience and adaptability of their cultures. Throughout the conversation, Arlie stressed the significance of maintaining cultural identity, empowering youth, and working towards a more equitable and sustainable society.

Leander Begay, a Navajo artist, shared his journey from traditional art to digital graphics and skateboard design, emphasizing the importance of patience, branding, and work ethic in business growth. He discussed his experiences growing up on the Navajo Reservation, the challenges of maintaining cultural connections, and his preference for a quieter, rural environment that influences his creative process. Leander also highlighted the significance of giving back to the community through his art and business, encouraging youth to overcome past struggles and achieve success.

This episode between Venture and Cheii covered his background, personal journey, and experiences as a Native American jewelry artist. They discussed his path to sobriety, his family history, and his passion for creating and selling necklaces and earrings. The conversation also touched on the importance of unity, faith, and perseverance in the Native American community, as well as the potential for sharing inspiring stories and promoting traditional crafts.

Michael Runningwind introduces himself and explains the traditional greeting in his native language, which acknowledges the life in each person. He discusses the importance of language in connecting with ancestors and cultural understanding. Michael shares his background, including his military service in the Marine Corps and subsequent challenges in reintegrating into civilian life. Currently, he considers himself retired but self-employed, working on establishing a 501(c)(3) organization to provide scholarships for young people from indigenous backgrounds. Michael also creates and sells crafts, including jewelry and art. He focuses on Native American cultural practices and leadership. Michael shares his experiences as a spiritual leader and the challenges he faces in his community. He describes the process of receiving certain rights involving an intense sweat lodge ceremony lasting from early morning until late at night. Runningwind expresses frustration with the local Native community's tendency to seek permission for cultural practices from outsiders and their resistance to change as well as touching upon the complexities of American indigenous identity, focusing on its intersections with other racial identities and the challenges of defining indigeneity across borders. Michael who identifies as mixed Seneca, Apache, and Otomi, shares personal experiences to illustrate how appearance and genetic heritage can complicate indigenous identification. The conversation touches on the need for a broader understanding of indigenous identity that accounts for historical migrations, cultural intersections, and the artificial nature of national borders in the Americas. Thank you so much for joining the show Michael we cannot wait to have you back soon!

Holly and Venture discussed their daily lives, experiences, and perspectives on life, work, and community, with a focus on the challenges and benefits of living in a rural area. They also explored their family dynamics, work experiences, and the importance of learning from their elders. The conversation concluded with discussions on cattle ranching, bull selection, and the potential for documenting ranch life through social [email protected]

Riley discussed her background in track and field, her transition to a project manager, and her recent launch of a women's fitness app. She emphasized the importance of aligning fitness with hormonal cycles, a concept she has been studying and implementing in her app. Riley also shared her experiences as a professional athlete and how she has been adapting to a new role as a business owner. Venture expressed his excitement about Riley's new venture and shared his own experiences transitioning from a sports background to entrepreneurship. Both agreed on the importance of discipline and goal-setting in their respective fields.IG: rileycooks

Venture and Angel discussed their contrasting personalities and experiences, with Venture being an extrovert and Angel an introvert, and how their respective strengths are not mutually exclusive. They also touched on the concept of femininity and its potential impact on society, the importance of balance and respect for both masculine and feminine energies, and the challenges of balancing their former athletic backgrounds with their current careers. The conversation also covered their personal journeys, experiences with chiropractors, and the importance of emotional well-being and stress management. Thank you so much for coming on Angel you have such a beautiful soul, can't wait to see you [email protected]

Ed shared his background growing up in Virginia and his path into criminal activities, including drug trafficking, which led to his incarceration. He discussed his experiences in prison, the challenges of reintegrating into society after release, and his efforts to transform his life through personal development and positive habits. The conversation also touched on the importance of appreciating freedom, the value of exercise and mental well-being, and the desire to help others avoid similar paths. Thank you so much for joining the show brother we can't wait to hear from you real soon!IG @emoneybags30