Billy Mills, an Oglala Lakota (Sioux) runner, was born in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, and grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Orphaned at 12 and surrounded by poverty, he turned to running as a source of strength, eventually earning a track scholarship to the University of Kansas and serving as a Marine Corps officer. At the 1964 Olympics, he shocked the world by winning gold in the 10,000-meter race, a feat no other American has accomplished. His victory remains one of the greatest moments in Olympic history.

In this episode, Billy Mills shares the wisdom passed down through generations, offering rare insights from his grandfather, who learned directly from leaders like Sitting Bull and Red Cloud. He reflects on the challenges Natives have faced in being seen and heard, emphasizing the importance of leading with values and virtues. Mills also speaks about his personal struggles and triumphs, reminding us that resilience is built through both hardship and victory.

Billy takes us on a deeply personal journey, sharing the mindset and sheer determination that led to his historic Olympic win. He opens up about the struggles Natives continue to face in being seen and heard, reminding us of the strength in our identities. His words don’t just inspire pride in our histories and cultures—they challenge us to honor those who came before us by carrying their teachings forward.

For more from Billy Mills, check out On Eagle’s Wings and Lessons of a Lakota, available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Target, or visit IndianYouth.org.

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Follow Billy Mills: Facebook.com/OfficialBillyMills