Chewing the Cud

PODCAST · society

Chewing the Cud

"Welcome to Chewing the Cud", a podcast where agriculture, community, and policy intersect with the vibrant stories of Native American tribal programs and directives. Each episode, we dig into the issues that shape rural life and Indigenous sovereignty, from sustainable farming practices to the policies impacting tribal lands and beyond. Join us as we sit down with special guests—farmers, community leaders, policymakers, and tribal voices—to explore the challenges, triumphs, and traditions that define these interconnected worlds.

  1. 53

    Kenzie Roberts talks food sovereignty, nonprofit work, data centers and protecting Mvskoke land, culture, and agriculture for future generations.

    Kenzie Roberts talks food sovereignty, nonprofit work, data centers and protecting Mvskoke land, culture, and agriculture for future generations. 

  2. 52

    Leslie Lewis, NE District 4H Specialist for Oklahoma State University, discusses 4H programming, youth camps,leadership, showing, and youth development.

    Leslie Lewis, NE District 4H Specialist for Oklahoma State University, discusses 4H programming, youth camps,leadership, showing, and youth development.

  3. 51

    Melissa Welch, FDPIR Farm Mgr discusses nutrition , FDPIR programming, farm mgmt., and the role of traditional foodways in advancing community health and food sovereignty within the Muscogee Nation

    Melissa Welch, FDPIR Farm Mgr discusses nutrition , FDPIR programming, farm management, and the role of traditional foodways in advancing community health and food sovereignty within the Muscogee Nation.

  4. 50

    Bob Seebek discusses community gardening, local food access, volunteer engagement, and the impact of the Okmulgee Community Garden on education and food sovereignty.

    Bob Seebek discusses community gardening, local food access, volunteer engagement, and the impact of the Okmulgee Community Garden on education and food sovereignty.

  5. 49

    Mekko Tyner, Dean of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Matt Yates discuss new GIS/ArcView courses, workforce development opportunities, and the continued growth of the College of the Muscogee Nation.

    Mekko Tyner, Dean of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Matt Yates discuss new GIS/ArcView courses, workforce development opportunities, and the continued growth of the College of the Muscogee Nation.

  6. 48

    Tribal agriculture and policy expert Carly Hotvedt examines food sovereignty, federal–tribal agricultural law, and opportunities for strengthening Indigenous food systems.

    Tribal agriculture and policy expert Carly Hotvedt examines food sovereignty, federal–tribal agricultural law, and opportunities for strengthening Indigenous food systems. 

  7. 47

    Mvskoke Elder and food sovereignty advocate Ben Yahola shares traditional agricultural knowledge, cultural teachings, and insights on reconnecting with land-based practices.

    Mvskoke Elder and food sovereignty advocate Ben Yahola shares traditional agricultural knowledge, cultural teachings, and insights on reconnecting with land-based practices. 

  8. 46

    Extension Educator Jill Gibbons discusses family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and the essential role of community programming in Okmulgee County.

    Extension Educator Jill Gibbons discusses family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and the essential role of community programming in Okmulgee County. 

  9. 45

    Riley Berry , discusses the road he traveled to become a cattle producer, his experience with FSA loan process, Watermelons, and his role as a leader in the world of tribal ag

    Riley Berry, Mvskoke Ag Producer and MCN Conservation District Commissioner, talks about the long road he traveled to become a cattle producer, his experience with the FSA loan process, Hannah Watermelons, and his newfound role as a leader in the world of tribal agriculture.”

  10. 44

    NRCS State Conservationist Jeanne Jasper & Asst. State Conservationist Brent Pannell discuss programs, the changing dynamics of land use, and highlight information on regenerative agriculture

    “NRCS State Conservationist Jeanne Jasper and Assistant State Conservationist Brent Pannell discuss current conservation programs, the changing dynamics of land use, and highlight new information on regenerative agriculture.”

  11. 43

    February 6, 2026 Show: Guest Bill Breckinridge shares hard-earned wisdom on raising Spanish goats, building a resilient homestead, and protecting Mvskoke tobacco traditions.

    February 6, 2026 Show: Guest Bill Breckinridge shares hard-earned wisdom on raising Spanish goats, building a resilient homestead, and protecting Mvskoke tobacco traditions.

  12. 42

    January 30, 2026 Show: Leo Enlow, a Muscogee youth producer and rising FFA leader, shares his journey in livestock, showmanship, and the next generation of Native agriculture.

    January 30, 2026 Show: Leo Enlow, a Muscogee youth producer and rising FFA leader, shares his journey in livestock, showmanship, and the next generation of Native agriculture.

  13. 41

    Roderick Dukes, USDA - NRCS Team Lead, gives insight into current and future federal cost-share programs that assist landowners who are engaged in production agriculture.

    Roderick Dukes, USDA - NRCS Team Lead, gives insight into current and future federal cost-share programs that assist landowners who are engaged in production agriculture. 

  14. 40

    Nico Williams, founder and director of Burning Cedar Sovereign Wellness, talks about her passion around native foods, local ingredients, and desire to create personal balance.

    Nico Williams, founder and director of Burning Cedar Sovereign Wellness, talks about her passion around native foods, local ingredients, and desire to create personal balance.

  15. 39

    Trenton Kissee, Muscogee Nation Secretary of Interior of Affairs, gives a 2025 year-end update on all things agricultural at the Nation and leaves us with some nuggets to ponder on for 2026.

    Trenton Kissee, Muscogee Nation Secretary of Interior of Affairs, gives a 2025 year-end update on all things agricultural at the Nation and leaves us with some nuggets to ponder on for 2026.

  16. 38

    Travis Thompson, Muscogee Nation Citizen, talks about his passion for the outdoors, new NWTF “Rez Birds” Chapter, and his support role in Woodsman Ministries.

    Travis Thompson, Muscogee Nation Citizen, talks about his passion for the outdoors, new NWTF “Rez Birds” Chapter, and his support role in Woodsman Ministries.

  17. 37

    Jim Hall, Oklahoma Farm Bureau, discusses risk management, liability, and ag related insurance as well as the role OFB plays in shaping agriculture policy in the State of Oklahoma.

    Jim Hall, Oklahoma Farm Bureau, discusses risk management, liability, and ag related insurance as well as the role OFB plays in shaping agriculture policy in the State of Oklahoma.

  18. 36

    “Dr. Mark Turner, Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist at OSU, talks about applied habitat management practices including the use of prescribed burning and forest stand improvement.”

    “Dr. Mark Turner, Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist at Oklahoma State University, talks about applied habitat management practices including the use of prescribed burning and forest stand improvement.”

  19. 35

    “Jody Gilroy and Craig Alpers, Okmulgee Cattleman’s Association, discuss the benefits of OCA membership and their collective role in assisting beef producers in the Eastern Oklahoma.”

    “Jody Gilroy and Craig Alpers, Okmulgee Cattleman’s Association, discuss the benefits of OCA membership and their collective role in assisting beef producers in the Eastern Oklahoma.”

  20. 34

    Brook Bartling, Muscogee Nation Wildlife Department, discusses conservation efforts on Tribal Lands, CWD, and feral hog disease research.

    Brook Bartling, Muscogee Nation Wildlife Department, discusses conservation efforts on Tribal Lands, CWD, and feral hog disease research. 

  21. 33

    Lori and David Earls, 9West Bees, discuss the challenges and opportunities of advanced beekeeping in Central Oklahoma.

    Lori and David Earls, 9West Bees, discuss the challenges and opportunities of advanced beekeeping in Central Oklahoma.

  22. 32

    Herby Sarty, Mvskoke Citizen and Veteran, talks about his passion for trapping wild hogs and discusses their devastating impact on agriculture.

    Herby Sarty, Mvskoke Citizen and Veteran, talks about his passion for trapping wild hogs and discusses their devastating impact on agriculture.

  23. 31

    “Johnna Yoder, Okmulgee Main Street Director, gives insight to downtown redevelopment activities including the new archway, Will Sampson Statue and the 2025 Harvest Spoon Chili Fest.”

    “Johnna Yoder, Okmulgee Main Street Director, gives insight to downtown redevelopment activities including the new archway, Will Sampson Statue and the 2025 Harvest Spoon Chili Fest.” 

  24. 30

    acob Rippy, Muscogee Nation Division of Agriculture, discusses sovereign hunting and fishing rights as well as recent developments on tribal compacts with the State of Oklahoma.

    acob Rippy, Muscogee Nation Division of Agriculture, discusses sovereign hunting and fishing rights as well as recent developments on tribal compacts with the State of Oklahoma.

  25. 29

    “Oklahoma District 8 Senator Bryan Logan discusses the invasion of renewable energy in green country as well as his country roots.”

    “Oklahoma District 8 Senator Bryan Logan discusses the invasion of renewable energy in green country as well as his country roots.”

  26. 28

    Mr. Leroy Brinkley Jr. and his LP&P Agricultural Co-Op friends give insight to the benefits of pooled resources as well as the desire to promote camaraderie amongst like-minded farmers and ranchers.

    Mr. Leroy Brinkley Jr. and his LP&P Agricultural Co-Op friends give insight to the benefits of pooled resources as well as the desire to promote camaraderie amongst like-minded farmers and ranchers.  

  27. 27

    Scott Fetgatter, District 16 State Representative and local businessman, discusses the economic opportunities and challenges of deer farming in Oklahoma

    Scott Fetgatter, District 16 State Representative, and local businessman, discusses the economic opportunities and challenges of deer farming in Oklahoma

  28. 26

    Dr. Amy Hagerman, Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics at OSU, gives insight on the Big Beautiful Bill, the next Farm Bill, and Ag Policy as we head into the era of AI and big technology.

    Dr. Amy Hagerman, Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University, gives insight on the Big Beautiful Bill, the next Farm Bill, and Ag Policy as we head into the era of AI and big technology.

  29. 25

    Dr. Joshua Campbell, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension, discusses his role in managing OSU’s Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program as well as his support of sustainable agriculture initiatives

    Dr. Joshua Campbell, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension, discusses his role in managing OSU’s Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program as well as his support of sustainable agriculture initiatives throughout the State of Oklahoma.

  30. 24

    Troy Dodd, Muscogee Nation Lighthorse (Game Warden) discusses hunting and fishing rights and regulations in Indian Country.

    Troy Dodd, Muscogee Nation Lighthorse (Game Warden) discusses hunting and fishing rights and regulations in Indian Country.

  31. 23

    Dr. James King, College of the Muscogee Nation, discusses Tribal Colleges and Universities as well as his personal connection to agriculture as a Mvskoke citizen.

    Dr. James King, College of the Muscogee Nation, discusses Tribal Colleges and Universities as well as his personal connection to agriculture as a Mvskoke citizen.

  32. 22

    Harleigh Moore, Flowerhill Institute, discusses her role in the growing world of Native Agriculture.

    Harleigh Moore, Flowerhill Institute, discusses her role in the growing world of Native Agriculture. She also gives insight to her pHD research project centered round bison management as well as her personal and professional connection to Osage Nation.

  33. 21

    Billy Haltom, Muscogee Nation Ag Youth Program, discusses programmatic efforts to promote leadership and character building amongst Mvskoke youth.

    Billy Haltom, Muscogee Nation Ag Youth Program, discusses programmatic efforts to promote leadership and character building amongst Mvskoke youth.

  34. 20

    Robby Deere, Mvskoke Loan Fund CEO, discusses the organization’s impact on Indian owned businesses as well their efforts to promote entrepreneurial development, financial literacy, and biz planning.

    Robby Deere, Mvskoke Loan Fund CEO, discusses the organization’s impact on Indian owned businesses as well their efforts to promote entrepreneurial development, financial literacy, and business planning.

  35. 19

    Jim Mordecai, Bigfoot Researcher and Board Member of NOBRO, talks about his personal experiences, the annual Bigfoot Festival at Christ’s Church, and discusses little known facts about Sasquatch

    Jim Mordecai, Bigfoot Researcher and Board Member of NOBRO, talks about his personal experiences, the annual Bigfoot Festival at Christ’s Church 40 Acres in SE Oklahoma, and discusses little known facts about Sasquatch.

  36. 18

    Julie Norem, Muscogee Nation Conservation District, discusses efforts including garden tilling, soil testing, brush management, and invasive species. Local 4H joins in on ag leadership

    Julie Norem, Muscogee Nation Conservation District, discusses efforts including garden tilling, soil testing, brush management, and invasive species. Local 4H joins in on ag leadership

  37. 17

    Tiger Carman, Muscogee Nation Office of Environmental Services, gives insight on the newly formed Orphan Wells Program and economic opportunities around Carbon Credits.

    Tiger Carman, Muscogee Nation Office of Environmental Services, gives insight on the newly formed Orphan Wells Program and economic opportunities around Carbon Credits.

  38. 16

    Ryan Logan, Muscogee Nation Tourism Director, share insights on the 2025 Muscogee Festival, Agritourism, and Cultural Tourism in the heart of Indian Country.

    Ryan Logan, Muscogee Nation Tourism Director, share insights on the 2025 Muscogee Festival, Agritourism, and Cultural Tourism in the heart of Indian Country.

  39. 15

    Jeanne Jasper, NRCS State Conservationist, discusses current USDA programs including EQIP, CRP, Agricultural Land Easements, and the role of Tribal Liaisons.

    Jeanne Jasper, NRCS State Conservationist, discusses current USDA programs including EQIP, CRP, Agricultural Land Easements, and the role of Tribal Liaisons.

  40. 14

    Jacob Rippy, Director of Agriculture for the Muscogee Nation, discusses ranch operations, youth development, meat processing, and future developments for the tribe.

    Jacob Rippy, Director of Agriculture for the Muscogee Nation, discusses ranch operations, youth development, meat processing, and future developments for the tribe.

  41. 13

    May 9, 2025 Show: Melissa Welch and Brandon Gibson, Euchee Butterfly Farm, discuss the pollinator crisis and its potential impact on agriculture and the environment.

    May 9, 2025 Show: Melissa Welch and Brandon Gibson, Euchee Butterfly Farm, discuss the pollinator crisis and its potential impact on agriculture and the environment.

  42. 12

    May 16, 2025 Show: Lainey Porter, Langston University, discusses sustainable agriculture, farmer’s markets, and small producers impacting agribusiness throughout the State of Oklahoma.

    May 16, 2025 Show: Lainey Porter, Langston University, discusses sustainable agriculture, farmer’s markets, and small producers impacting agribusiness throughout the State of Oklahoma.

  43. 11

    Jeff Caskey, Technical Assistance Specialist with Intertribal Agriculture Council, discusses the conservation, development and use of agricultural resources for Native American owned lands in Oklahoma

    Jeff Caskey, Technical Assistance Specialist with Intertribal Agriculture Council, discusses the conservation, development and use of agricultural resources for Native American owned lands in Oklahoma

  44. 10

    Muscogee Nation Secretary of Interior Trenton Kissee shares his thoughts on the Mvskoke Agribusiness economy, future opportunities for tribal producers, and the history of tribal sovereignty.

    Muscogee Nation Secretary of Interior Trenton Kissee shares his thoughts on the Mvskoke Agribusiness economy, future opportunities for tribal producers, and the history of tribal sovereignty as it relates to hunting and fishing rights on the Reservation.

  45. 9

    Shelby Lofton, Federally Recognized Tribal Extension Program Educator and Specialist, discusses her dual role in supporting both Oklahoma State University and the College of the Muscogee Nation.

    Shelby Lofton, Federally Recognized Tribal Extension Program Educator and Specialist, discusses her dual role in supporting both Oklahoma State University and the College of the Muscogee Nation, two independent land grant institutions. Ms. Lofton details her plans to implement a comprehensive 4H Program for the Nation and tribal citizens.

  46. 8

    Muscogee Nation Director of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Jacob Rippy, talks about tribal sovereignty as it relates to hunting & fishing rights for Muscogee citizens.

    Muscogee Nation Director of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Jacob Rippy, talks about tribal sovereignty as it relates to hunting & fishing rights for Muscogee citizens.

  47. 7

    “Muscogee Nation Second Chief Del Beaver discusses food sovereignty, economic development, vertical integration, and the need to further develop the Mvskoke economy.”

    “Muscogee Nation Second Chief Del Beaver discusses food sovereignty, economic development, vertical integration, and the need to further develop the Mvskoke economy.”

  48. 6

    Intw. w/James Williams with Muscogee Nation Office of Environmental Services gives updates on recycling initiatives as well as 2025 Earth Day Events. - more...

    Intw. w/James Williams with Muscogee Nation Office of Environmental Services gives updates on recycling initiatives as well as 2025 Earth Day Events. - more...

  49. 5

    Food is Medicine - Intvw. w/Erin Martin of FreshRX Ok.

    We’re committed to giving nutrient dense, locally grown produce to people to help manage their diabetes and improve their overall health. Through person-centered care, education, and food as medicine, we give people more ways to stay healthy.

  50. 4

    Drones in agriculture - Mixing hi-tech with native culture - Food sovereignty - much more...

    Drones in agriculture - Mixing hi-tech with native culture - Food sovereignty - much more...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

"Welcome to Chewing the Cud", a podcast where agriculture, community, and policy intersect with the vibrant stories of Native American tribal programs and directives. Each episode, we dig into the issues that shape rural life and Indigenous sovereignty, from sustainable farming practices to the policies impacting tribal lands and beyond. Join us as we sit down with special guests—farmers, community leaders, policymakers, and tribal voices—to explore the challenges, triumphs, and traditions that define these interconnected worlds.

HOSTED BY

Christopher Azbell & Shannon McBroom

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