Cultivating Indigenous Voices

Cultivating Indigenous Voices

By KXCIArts
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Cultivating Indigenous Voices episodes

  • Ep. 56 Circle of Indigenous Empowerment with Agnes Attakai

    In this episode I invited Agnes Attakai (Diné), Director of the Circle of Indigenous Empowerment from the University of Arizona Sonoran Center for Excellence in Disabilities. her vision for empowering Indigenous communities, and the critical work of the Circle of Indigenous Empowerment in advancing disability advocacy, education, and equity.

    Discover how Agnes is fostering collaboration, breaking barriers, and creating pathways for Indigenous individuals with disabilities to thrive. Whether you’re passionate about Indigenous rights, disability advocacy, or leadership, this episode offers insights into the power of community-driven change.

    26 min
  • Ep. 55 Ha:ṣañ Bahidaj (Saguaro Fruit) - A Cultural Story
    A CULTURAL STORY

    Tune in and listen to the cultural story of the Ha:ṣañ Bahidaj (saguaro fruit) harvest, a sacred summer tradition deeply rooted in O’odham history. In this special archive episode, I feature an excerpt of my late mother Amelia Chiago-Martinez (baḍ) to honor her legacy and the generations of ancestral knowledge she passed on to me. Recorded in July 2020,  prior to her passing, this conversation serves as a beautiful time capsule, celebrating the rich heritage of the ha:ṣañ bahidaj (saguaro fruit) and the cultural significance of the harvest.

    The sacred tradition of harvesting the ha:san bahidaj (saguaro fruit) spans countless generations within’ O’odham communities. Born in 1957 in the now-uninhabited village of Emika, Amelia later settled in Hickiwan with her family, carrying deep traditional knowledge that was simply a part of her everyday life. You will hear Amelia tell this beautiful story in her own words, followed by her own translation in the Tohono O’odham language.

    Photo by T. Andrew. Pictured L to R, Amelia and her oldest grand-daughters Mia Lopez and Sarah Lopez, Amelia holding her basket, Tina and Amelia (mother and daughter), Amelia in her younger years.
    BRIDGING PAST TRADITIONS

    Also featured is LaMia (Mia) Lopez from the Tohono O’odham Nation, Mia is the eldest grand-daughter to Amelia. A few years back Mia worked as a youth intern for the Tohono O’odham Young Voices podcast creating social media content. With the podcast team, she wrote and recorded a script that talks about the enriching cultural tradition of harvesting the ha:ṣañ bahidaj (saguaro fruit).  This informational recording details the ancestral knowledge passed on from generation to generation within’ the O’odham communities throughout the Sonoran desert. In this episode you will hear a voiceover recording of the script that includes background sound effects and ambient sound.

    Photo by T. Andrew
    TINA’S MEMORIES

    Growing up on the rez, I remember being outdoors all the time. Running around in the trees, the mountains, and enjoying the seasons as they changed year round. For the summer months, not every summer but some summers me and my brothers would go out and pick the hasan bahidaj (saguaro fruit). We would find some cactus ribs laying around, tie pieces of them together to make it a longer pole, and add a cross section at the top making sure that part was sturdy enough to nudge the fruit off the saguaros. What’s funny about this is that no one ever taught us how to properly do these things, we just had an idea of how to make a kuipud (picking pole) or what to consider when harvesting the fruit, we just went by whatever knowledge we had about it and did it ourselves. I don’t think we even knew how to properly identify which fruits were ripe and which ones weren’t. But, we did it because it was something to do, and it meant that we could go out into the desert and explore. I remember one funny memory about my lu’lu’u (my moms mother) Isabel Chiago (baḍ), us kids went out one summer and picked a whole bucket of saguaro fruit, and brought it back with excitement to show our lu’lu’u Isabel baḍ how much we had harvested. She came smiling and excited about it too and immediately took the bucket into her little bith ki: (mud house/adobe house) thinking she was going to cook into the jam or sitol, and maybe she did, but I don’t necessarily remember ever eating any of it. And as I recollect about this memory I believe that maybe she made it into the nawait (wine), because by then times had changed. It wasn’t like what you heard my late mother talking about, how they would go out every summer to their family bahidaj camp and harvest as much of the hasan bahidaj (saguaro fruit) as they could. Then, upon returning home, processed the fruit into sitol (syrup) and the nawait (wine) in preparation for the rain ceremony. By this time, my grandmother Isabel was in her old age and unable to go out on her own to harvest, so for us as kids we didn’t mind going out picking the fruit and bringing it back home. 

    Photo created by T. Andrew

    Traditionally, we as O’odham believe that having a rain ceremony is critical in calling in the rains. It’s more than just drinking the wine, it involves prayer, singing traditional songs, and dancing throughout the night. Although, the cultural landscape has to some extent changed, there is still this deeply rooted continuation of our cultural and ceremonial practices being carried on. 

    Graphic created by T. Andrew

     

    16 min
  • Ep. 54 Laughter Is Our Medicine with Teresa Choyguha

    In Indian Country, teasing is a love language and humor is survival. In this episode I catch up over the phone with Tesera Choyguha (Tohono O’odham), a multi-talented Native comedian, cultural educator, utilitarian potter, and retired Toka player. Tee and I go way back to around 2013, when I first joined their Toka team called Gewkdag, in Sells, Arizona. For those unfamiliar, Toka is a traditional O’odham women’s game similar to field hockey. We have stayed connected ever since, and it is always a joy to run into each other and catch up.

    Photo of Teresa (left) and Tina (Right) during the Mul-Chu-Tha Toka Tournament in March 2014
    Teresa (right) and her daughter Summer (left)
    Hard Work, Humbling Times, and Healing Laughter
    Teresa brings a deeply grounding and human story, sharing her family’s profound migration journey from the traditional O’odham homelands in Mexico across the border into southern Arizona. Growing up alongside her family working in the grueling farm fields, Teresa’s upbringing was shaped by relentless hard work and intensely humbling circumstances. Amidst the sweat, exhaustion, and financial struggles of laboring under the desert sun, humor became their ultimate survival mechanism. Rather than letting poverty dim their spirits, her family used laughter, teasing, and sharp wit as daily medicine to ease the physical toll of farm work. This beautiful blend of tireless labor, cultural resilience, and deep-seated familial joy laid the entire foundation for Teresa’s comedy career, showing audiences that the truest comedy is often forged in life’s most humbling and raw moments. 
    Photo of Teresa C.
    3 Sisters Comedy

    Teresa is a founding member of 3 Sisters Comedy, a powerhouse, all-female Indigenous stand-up group. A proud citizen of the Tohono O’odham Nation in southern Arizona, Choyguha (often known by her stage name “Sh-Girl”) performs alongside fellow Native comedians Adrianne Chalepah (Kiowa/Apache) and Deanna MAD (Tonawanda Seneca). Originally founded in 2014 as “The Ladies of Native Comedy,” the group officially rebranded to 3 Sisters Comedy in 2020 to reflect their tight-knit bond and the traditional agricultural concept of the “three sisters” (corn, beans, and squash) growing together to sustain life. As part of this episode we also explore why laughter is considered vital medicine in Indigenous communities. For general inquiries they can be reached at  [email protected]

    Photo of the 3 Sisters comedians from left to right, Adrianne Chalepah, Deanna MAD, and Teresa Choyguha. Picture courtesy of T. Choyguha.
    Left to right, Adrianne Chalepah, Deanna MAD, and Teresa Choyguha. Picture courtesy of T. Choyguha.
    Indigenous Comedy Live

    Hosted outdoors at the historic Hotel Congress Plaza, Indigenous Comedy Live made history as a first-of-its-kind benefit show showcasing the vibrant power of Native storytelling and humor. Popular Tucson native and Reservation Dogs actor Jon Proudstar served as the Master of Ceremonies, guiding an electric evening under the stars. Teresa delivered a standout performance alongside fellow Native comics Bobby Dues, Gilarious Wolf Brown, and Jameson D. Lopez.

    This show was produced in partnership with the Southwestern Foundation for Education and Historical Preservation, all event ticket proceeds directly benefited the Arizona State Museum’s Public Programs Fund.

    Teresa C. was a part of this amazing indigenous comedy event in April 2026 alongside many other talented Native acts. Here is the flyer that was put out for the event earlier this year.
    Living Life to the Fullest

    Even as Teresa navigates a difficult battle with cancer and other health challenges, her unbreakable spirit shines through as she continues to live her absolute best life. Tee embodies the true spirit of resilience. She proves that choosing joy, sharing laughs, and living your best life isn’t just about survival; it is a profound form of medicine. I am incredibly grateful to Tee for sharing her time, her stories, and her unbreakable spirit with me. This conversation is a beautiful reminder of why laughter truly is our medicine.

    Graphic created by T. Andrew

     

    32 min
  • Ep. 53 Native Broadcast Enterprise with Cisco Benally

    In this episode, we welcome Cisco Benally, CEO and General Manager of Native Broadcast Enterprise of the Navajo Nation. He and members of his team traveled from New Mexico as part of their mission to strengthen and expand community-based broadcasting. Cisco and his staff toured several stations—including KXCI—engaging with radio professionals to exchange ideas and best practices. Their visit focused on gaining insight into innovative programming, effective administrative strategies, and meaningful education and outreach efforts that serve local communities.

    Photo of Cisco Benally, CEO & General Manager of Native Broadcast Enterprise

    Native Broadcast Enterprise (NBE) is a media organization owned and operated by the Navajo Nation, and its roots are closely tied to the development of tribal radio broadcasting.

    Native Broadcast Enterprise was created as a Navajo Nation enterprise to manage and expand tribal radio services, most notably KTNN (“The Voice of the Navajo Nation”), which was established in 1985 and began broadcasting in 1986. The station was founded to educate, inform, and connect Navajo communities, especially across the vast and often rural areas of the reservation where other forms of media were limited.

    As KTNN grew in reach and influence, Native Broadcast Enterprise evolved to oversee additional stations and media operations, helping the Navajo Nation maintain control over its own communication systems. Over time, NBE has focused on preserving Diné language and culture, providing public information, and expanding Indigenous-owned broadcasting infrastructure, including managing multiple stations and pursuing new facilities and technologies.

    Today, Native Broadcast Enterprise continues to serve as a key arm of the Navajo Nation’s media presence, supporting radio as a vital tool for community engagement, cultural preservation, and public service across Navajo Country.

    KTNN Logo

    Tune in as we explore the importance of community radio as a platform for cultural preservation, education, and connection, and hear how collaborations like these help shape the future of Indigenous broadcasting.

    20 min
  • Ep. 52 The Níhí Lab Pt. 2 with Dr. Cherie De Vore, Melissa Jacquez, and Gwen Flores

    In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Cherie De Vore, lead researcher at the Níhí Lab, the spotlight expands to include two more of her students who are carving their own paths in engineering and environmental research. This episode is led by Dr. De Vore herself, as she guides a thoughtful discussion about education, identity, mentorship, and the future of their work. As host, I take more of a back seat, allowing the conversation to unfold naturally between mentor and students.

    Pictured from left to right is Gwen Flores, Melissa Jaquez, and Dr. Cherie De Vore sitting in recording studio 2B at KXCI Community Radio near downtown Tucson, Arizona.
    Picture left to right is Melissa (L) and Gwen (R) standing in front of KXCI Community Radio house in Tucson, AZ.
    Melissa Jaquez (Diné)

    First, we hear from graduate researcher pursuing a PhD in Environmental Engineering, Melissa Jaquez (Diné)  with a minor in American Indian Studies, working under the guidance of Dr. De Vore. She reflects on her academic path, the motivations behind her research, and how integrating environmental engineering with Indigenous knowledge and perspectives informs her work and long-term vision.

    Pictured is Melissa Jaquez Diné (Navajo) graduate researcher currently working on her PhD in Environmental Engineering and a minor in American Indian Studies.
    Photo of Melissa J.

    Melissa (she/her) is a proud Queer Diné (Navajo) graduate researcher currently working on her PhD in Environmental Engineering and a minor in American Indian Studies under the guidance of Dr. De Vore, focusing on innovative techniques for emerging contaminants of concern. She achieved her B.S.E. in environmental engineering from Northern Arizona University and M.S. in Environmental Science from the University of Arizona. Although she grew up in the city, her time with her family in Dzil Na’oodilii, New Mexico, instilled a passion for her community and environment. She continues her education in hopes of working for a tribal college and increasing the representation of Natives in STEM careers.

    Photo of Melissa and her late father
    Photo of Melissa and her parents
    Gwendolyn Flores (Yoeme)

    We’re also joined by a junior Materials Science and Engineering undergraduate at the University of Arizona, Gwen Flores, who shares her journey into the field—from early curiosity about how materials shape our world to finding a research home in the Níhí Lab. They discuss the challenges and excitement of undergraduate research, the skills they’re building, and how their experiences are shaping their future goals.

    Gwendolyn Flores is a Pascua Yaqui Tribal member and a junior Materials Science & Engineering undergraduate at the University of Arizona. She is the oldest of five siblings and a mother to her young son, Alex. Gwen transferred from Rio Salado Community College to the university in Fall 2023. Throughout her academic journey, she updated her major four times before finding her path in engineering. Her life started to change when she began earning scholarships which allowed her to leave her eight-year career at State Farm and become a full-time student. In the summer of 2025, Gwen participated in the Environmental Health Science Research for Indigenous Students Engagement (EHS-RISE) program. This initiative aims to increase Native American representation in the STEM workforce while supporting students’ cultural identity. The program pairs students with volunteer faculty mentors for full-time research experiences. Gwen sought a strong female role model in her field, someone who unapologetically embodies what it means to be a Native American woman in STEM. Within the Chemical & Environmental Engineering department, Cherie was the sole Indigenous female mentor. Cherie has played a pivotal role to Gwen’s success, mentoring and guiding her academic growth through an Indigenous lens while expanding her professional opportunities. Through Cherie’s support, Gwen was introduced to the Nihi Lab (“Our Lab”), where fungi are utilized for bioremediation research, as well as to American Indian Scientist & Engineering Society (AISES). Through AISES, Gwen was able to present research in Minneapolis, MN and won recognition in the undergraduate poster competition in 2025!

    Dr. Cherie De Vore (Diné)

     

    Together, the group explores mentorship, representation in STEM, the collaborative environment of the Níhí Lab, and what it means to pursue research that has both scientific and community impact. From undergraduate discovery to doctoral research, this conversation highlights the personal stories, educational journeys, and future ambitions shaping the next generation of scientists and engineers.

    Tune in for an inspiring discussion about curiosity, culture, and the transformative power of research.

    31 min
  • Ep. 51 The Níhí Lab Pt. 1 with Dr. Cherie De Vore, Nieves Vázquez, and Jariah Callado

    In this episode, we step inside a one-of-a-kind research lab at the University of Arizona’s Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, where cutting-edge process engineering meets deep respect for Indigenous knowledge systems. The Níhí Lab is lead by Dr. Cherie De Vore, PhD, who is the first Native American professor in the history of the University of Arizona’s School of Engineering. Cherie is passionate about mentoring the next generation of community leaders, offering a holistic approach that integrates multiple knowledge systems and praxis.

    Níhí Lab Research Group Photo

    The Diné word “Níhí” translates to a plural, collective “ours.” It reflects the spirit and foundation of their research community: to operate as an inclusive collective that brings together students, researchers, non-academic partners, and community members in shared purpose and responsibility.

    Group photo of students of the Nihi Lab with their Mentor Dr. Cherie De Vore taken at the 2025 American Indian Science & Engineering Society National Conference.
    Group photo of students of the Nihi Lab with their Mentor Dr. De Vore. From left to right, Nieves, Jariah, Gwen, and Dr. Cherie De Vore

    Leading the conversation is Dr. De Vore, an Assistant Professor of Chemical and Environmental Engineering Member of the Graduate Faculty at the University of Arizona. Beyond her technical expertise, she is a dedicated mentor recognized for cultivating inclusive environments, fostering scientific identity, and actively guiding the next generation of innovators.

    Photo of Dr. Cherie De Vore
    Dr. Cherie De Vore (Diné)

    Dr. Cherie De Vore (Diné) comes from the beautiful high desert community of Crownpoint, NM in eastern Diné (Navajo) Nation. Her clans are Tł’ááshchi’í (Red Bottom People), Dziłt’áá’ Kinyaa’áání (Atop the Mountain Towering House,) Ashįįhí (Salt People) and Táneeszahníí (Tangle People). She received her Ph.D. in civil & environmental engineering at the University of New Mexico under the mentorship of Professor José Cerrato. She was awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) Earth Science Postdoctoral Fellowship to conduct research at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory from 2020 to 2023. Dr. De Vore now leads the Níhí Biogeochemistry Environmental Engineering laboratory group as a new Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering at UArizona. Her current work investigates biogeochemical mechanisms that affect the mobilization of inorganic contaminants and microbial community changes for the purpose of engineering bioremediation efforts in rural and underserved communities. Cherie is also an associate faculty member of the Indigenous Resilience Center and a co-PI on the Native FEWS Alliance to address food, energy and water solutions in Indigenous communities. Cherie serves as the Vice President of the UA Native Faculty Group and is the co-advisor for the UA AISES Chapter. Outside of research, Cherie enjoys spending time with her family, coffee (campfire to craft), growing food, archery & marksmanship, hunting, martial arts, playing/collecting soul records, and participating in Diné ceremonies.

    Dr. Cherie De Vore – 2025 American Indian Science & Engineering Society (AISES) Most Promising Scientist. Video by @AISESHQ YouTube channel.

    I’m also joined by two outstanding research students who are actively involved in projects at the Nihi Lab. These students aren’t just learning science—they’re doing science. They represent the next generation of STEM leaders. In this interview, they’ll share what drew them to research, what it’s like working in a university lab setting, the challenges they’ve faced, and the moments that have inspired them to keep pushing forward.

    Nieves Vázquez (Huachichil Chichimecatl)

    Nieves Vázquez was born and raised in Houston, Texas and comes from Huachichil Chichimecatl and Mexican people of the Sierra Madre Oriental, México, specifically the Río Ramos of the Río San Juan basin.

    They are a recent University of Arizona graduate in the M.S. Water, Society, & Policy program at the School of Natural Resources and the Environment. At the Nihi Lab with her faculty advisor Dr. Cherie De Vore, she worked on the thesis “Relationally in Analysis: Science Communication in Soil and Water Quality Research for Resilient Communities,” arguing that ancestral knowledge utilizes the tool of “relationally” to conduct relevant and impactful science by centering the abundance existing in communities facing environmental challenges. Her familial experience in traditional farming, land cultivation, and river knowledge has shaped her experience as a scientist and a home amongst her peers with similar paths in the Nihi Lab and beyond.

    Nieves’ previous work as an intern with the National Park Service throughout the Intermountain Region focused on facilitating difficult dialogues with federal land-based agencies on the inclusion and sovereignty of Indigenous people and under-represented groups in the outdoors and environmental field.

    Beyond this work, Nieves loves collecting vinyl records, making art prints or stickers, and identifying birds.

    Photo of Nieves in front of the Old Main building on the UofA campus in Tucson, AZ.
    Students and Dr. De Vore posing in front of research poster board.
    Photo of Nieves Vázquez
    Jariah Callado (Jicarilla Apache)

    Jariah Callado comes from the mountain community of Dulce, New Mexico, and is an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation. Jariah graduated from Dulce High School at sixteen years old and continued her education at Estrella Mountain Community College in Avondale, Arizona, where she earned her Associates of Science. She then went on to attended the University of Arizona where she completed her Bachelor’s in Law with a Certificate in Tribal Courts and Justice Administration. During her undergraduate studies, Jariah joined the Níhí Biogeochemistry and Environmental Engineering Laboratory under the mentorship of Dr. Cherie De Vore. Her research explores Indigenous Data Sovereignty (IDS) Principles and their application in environmental science and engineering, with the goal of restoring power and decision making to Indigenous communities through equitable, community driven data practices. Jariah has been an active member of the Níhí Lab for a year and a half and is passionate about integrating Indigenous knowledge systems into research frameworks that serve her people. Outside of academics, she enjoys going to powwows and dancing jingle, beading, sewing, baking, working out, and traveling.

    Photo of Jariah Callado
    Photo of Jariah Callado (Jicarilla Apache), member of Níhí Lab, presented her research at the 2025 AISES National Conference. Research poster titled, “Strengthening Indigenous Data Governance in Environmental Science and Engineering.

    What sets this lab apart isn’t only its technology—it’s its guiding philosophy. During the interview the team explains how they deliberately weave Indigenous knowledge systems into their research practices, centering respect, reciprocity, and meaningful relationships. They describe how this perspective influences every stage of their work, from shaping research questions and forming community partnerships to redefining how success is understood and evaluated. Tune in as this episode flips the script. Host Tina passes the mic to STEM mentor Dr. De Vore, who leads an in-depth interview with two of her Nihi Lab students. Their voices bring this work to life—sharing personal insights, lived experiences, and the values that shape their research in ways only they can.

    From left to right is a photo of Dr. Cherie De Vore, Jariah Callado, and Nieves Vázquez standing in Studio 1A at KXCI Community Radio in Tucson, AZ.

     

     

    38 min
  • Ep. 50 Warrior Society with Andre Bouchard, Harrison Jim Sr. and Montana Miller

    In this episode, I’m joined by three guests Andre Bouchard (Kootenai/Ojibwe/Pend d’Oreille/Flathead Salish), Harrison Jim Sr. (Diné), and Montana Miller (Diné), who are involved in the upcoming live event Stories from the Warrior Society, that explores the evolution of warrior societies in Tribal communities through the lived experiences of Indigenous veterans and active-duty military across three generations. This will be held on Tohono O’odham and Yaqui Tribal territory (Tucson, AZ) and Squaxin Island Tribal territory (Olympia, WA). Each site will feature six Native storytellers who are veterans or active duty— two of whom will be drawn from each site’s local Tribal communities as well as the directors who are Navajo storytellers themselves. This local event will take place at the Fox Theater in downtown Tucson on March 28, 2026 at 2:00 pm, tickets are now available for purchase on the Fox Tucson Theatre website.

    Logo for the Warrior Society storytelling event

    Our conversation centers on what it means to be a warrior in Indigenous communities—past and present—and how service, protection, and responsibility have taken many forms over time. Our guests reflect on the power of storytelling as a way to honor ancestors, uplift veterans, and create understanding between generations. They also share what audiences can expect from the live event, where personal stories illuminate history, identity, and the ongoing role of warriors in Tribal life.

    A photo of Andre and his dog

    Andre Bouchard (of Kootenai/Ojibwe/Pend d’Oreille/Flathead Salish descent) is an educator, director, producer and consultant who was born and raised on the Flathead Reservation in western Montana. He works to build bridges and reverse the invisibility that serves to marginalize Native people in the US. Andre is the founder and director of Indigenous Performance Productions. He holds a Master’s degree in Arts Management from the Heinz College at Carnegie Mellon University, a BFA in Dance and a BA in Anthropology from the University of Montana. Another storytelling project Andre is involved is called “The Aunties“, which focuses on storytelling from the perspectives by Indigenous women who call the local area their home who have dedicated their lifework in service to their community. A project is shared at sites across Turtle Island with locations that include, Yakima WA, Los Angeles, CA, Salt Lake City, UT, Minneapolis, MN, etc.

    A photo of Harrison Jim Sr., Diné (Navajo)

    Co-Director, Harrison Jim, Sr. a Diné (Navajo) 

    Born into Haltsooi, born for Kinyaa aanii, maternal grandfather is Tsi’najiinii, paternal grandfather is Tsi’najiinii. Harrison Jim Sr. is a Navy veteran and Traditional Practitioner at Sage Memorial Hospital, where he developed a program utilizing traditional practices to help western medicine in healing patients. Mr. Jim is a member of the Dine’ Hat’aalii Association as a traditional practitioner (Hat’aalii), traditional counselor, traditional herbalist, and cultural teacher. Mr. Jim is the only full-blooded Native American awarded a Robert Wood Johnson Fellowship for Developing Leadership in Reducing Substance Abuse.

    Photo of Montana Miller, Diné (Navajo)
    Photo courtesy of Montana Miller

     Co-Director: Montana James Miller yinishyé

    Tabaaha nishti. Áshjjh bashishchiin. Tachii’nii dashicheii. Kinyaa’aanii dashináli. Ákótéego Diné hastiin nishij. Montana Miller (Diné) was born to the Water Edge Clan, Salt People Clan, Red Running into Water Clan, and the Towering House Clan. He is an Infantry Airborne Army veteran who studied Performing Arts at the Institute of American Indian Arts. An actor, director, writer, and producer, he is known for his role as “Arizona” in Into the Wild Frontier (Season 4, Episode 1). Through his work, he strives to bring greater diversity to the world and highlight the beauty of diverse cultures and human experiences. Montana is also a co-founder of a Native Production company called Natives of the Apocalypse (N.O.T.A.), dedicated to empowering Natives to tell their stories.

    As I sat down with my guests I began to fully understand the importance of the topic of healing ceremonies for returning military men and women and why it is an important process for those dealing with traumatic war experiences. While listening to Harrison speak about the Native/Indigenous perspectives of the spiritual practices that support returning Native/Indigenous soldiers,  I learned that ceremony can help restore balance, reintegrate returning military service men and women into their communities, and cleanse them of the impacts of war.

    This episode offers a meaningful introduction to an event rooted in respect, resilience and the voices of those who have served. For more information on this upcoming event and for any questions visit Fox Theatre, or email Andre Bouchard (Executive Creative Producer/Founder) at [email protected]

    Graphic created by T. Andrew
    35 min
  • Ep. 49 Dr. Michael Kotutwa Johnson

    In this episode I sat down with Dr. Michael Kotutwa Johnson (Hopi), who is an Assistant Professor/Extension Specialist of Indigenous Resilience at the University of Arizona’s School of Natural Resources and the Environment and a core faculty member of the Indigenous Resilience Center. Dr. Johnson is a Hopi tribal member and avid Hopi dryland farmer. He is a 250th-generation Hopi farmer, embodying generational ancestral knowledge learned through cultural practice, observation, and honoring what sustains life. His research focuses on Indigenous Land Use Management while integrating cultural and scientific expertise, such as Indigenous agriculture and the intersections of policy, science, and law. 

    Photo of Dr. Michael Kotutwa Johnson with handful of different corn types.
    Photo courtesy of Dr. Johnson

    During our conversation Dr. Johnson not only discusses his work in academia but proudly shares stories of his ancestors, homelands, and planting heritage. As he reflects on his research, mentors, and experiences that shaped his work, he also opens up in a heartfelt way sharing vivid stories of the homelands that nurtured his family and the rich planting traditions he learned from spending  time with his grandparents on the Rez during summer breaks as a kid. Together, these stories reveal not only the foundations of his scholarship but the cultural lineage that continues to inspire his life and work today.

    Photo courtesy of Dr. Johnson
    The image features a corn field cultivated and cared for by Dr. Michael Kotutwa Johnson. Photo courtesy of Dr. Johnson.

    Tune in to this powerful conversation with Dr. Michael Kotutwa Johnson, where we explore Indigenous knowledge, food systems, and community-centered futures.

    Graphic created by T. Andrew

    Here is a brief version of the interview that offers key highlights and insights from the full conversation.

    https://kxci.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/12-10-25-to-12-24-25-CultivatingIV-Dr-Michael-Kotutwa-Johnson.mp3
    23 min
  • Ep. 48 Dr. Karletta Chief

    In this inspiring episode, I sat down with Dr. Karletta Chief (Diné), a distinguished hydrologist, environmental scientist, and proud citizen of the Navajo Nation. She is the Director of the Indigenous Resilience Center, as well as a faculty member and researcher at the University of Arizona. Dr. Chief discusses her expansive work addressing environmental challenges that directly impact Indigenous communities—especially in the areas of water quality, climate resilience, and tribal community engagement.

    IRes Group Photo

    Dr. Chief shares how her research bridges cutting-edge science with culturally grounded approaches, ensuring that tribal voices and knowledge systems remain central to environmental decision-making. She also talks about her passion for mentoring the next generation of scientists, describing the programs she leads to support students, by helping build pathways into STEM fields. Dr. Chief breaks down the many projects she’s involved in—from researching water and climate issues that affect Native communities to teaming up with tribal partners on real-world solutions.

    Throughout the conversation, Dr. Chief shares how her identity and community shape the way she approaches research, teaching, and collaboration. The video titled Breakthrough: Bitter Water, is a great example and visual that depicts part of our conversation in the interview, a film by Science Friday and produced in collaboration with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Whether she’s conducting field research, partnering with tribal nations, or empowering students in the classroom, Dr. Chief offers powerful insights on what it means to serve both science and community.

    Graphic created by T. Andrew

    If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Chief’s work, here are a few helpful links:

    Community Tool Kit

    Off Grid Solar Nanofiltration Unit (SNF) full video

    Navajo GIS Water Quality Portal

    Native FEWS Alliance

    AZPM Connecting indigenous communities with the science of water use Radio Interview

    28 min
  • Ep. 47 Indigenous Takeover with Andrew Pedro

    In this episode of Cultivating Indigenous Voices, I sat down with Andrew Pedro (Akimel O’odham),  promoter and organizer behind the Indigenous Takeover show — an awesome event bringing together metal and hardcore bands from across Turtle Island. We dive deep into the roots of this movement, exploring how heavy music has become a fierce, unapologetic form of cultural expression and resistance.

    Heavy metal, a genre celebrated for its intense sound and defiant attitude, has fostered a distinctive subculture that reaches far beyond the music itself. One of the most defining elements of this subculture is the sense of community experienced at heavy metal concerts. Fans—often referred to as metalheads—come together through their shared passion for the music, forming a powerful social and cultural movement.

    Together, we talk about the importance of creating spaces where Indigenous artists can take the stage, be heard, and be celebrated for their talent and message.

    Indigenous Takeover flyer for the next upcoming show at 191 Toole, Nov. 14th

    Over time, I’ve gotten to know Andrew and have come to admire the work he does within his community. He’s also an incredible drummer, known for his killer blast beats! Through his DIY shows, Andrew has organized numerous local metal events both on and off tribal lands across Southern Arizona, focusing on showcasing bands that feature tribal members.

    We talk about what makes this kind of gathering so special — how it’s not just about the heavy riffs and mosh pits (though there’s plenty of that!), but about creating a space where Native people can show up, feel at home, and let loose. It’s about representation, community, and proving that this music — raw, powerful, and full of emotion — deserves to be heard and celebrated by everyone.

    So, whether you’re deep into the metal scene or just love seeing Indigenous creativity thrive, this episode is all about the energy, passion, and purpose behind the movement. So turn it up, and let’s rock out together!

    Graphic created by T. Andrew

    Here is a short version of the interview that offers key highlights and insights from the full conversation.

    https://kxci.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/11-09-25-to-11-16-25-CultivatingIV-IndigenousTakeover.mp3

     

    30 min

About Cultivating Indigenous Voices

From the publisher's feed

Original programming produced in Tucson Arizona for KXCI Community Radio