Hidden Heritage

Welcome to this special episode of Hidden Heritage, where host Paul LaRoche engages in a phone interview with Garan Coons, a member of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, cultural role model, and Brulé dancer. Join us as we hear about Garan's rich heritage, his educational journey, and his profound impact on preserving Native American culture.

Garan shares his experiences growing up in Winnebago, the creation and success of the Many Moccasins Dance Troupe, and his involvement with the Tournament of Roses Parade 2011. Discover how the Winnebago Tribe transformed their community through innovative economic strategies and the importance of maintaining their language and traditions.

In addition to his cultural contributions, Garan discusses his role as the Communications Director for the Winnebago Tribe, his efforts in launching a community radio station, and the significance of using media to connect and inform tribal members. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with history, resilience, and hope.

Join us in this inspiring story of a professor, entrepreneur, and enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Based in Vermilion, South Dakota, she shares her journey from a young, crafty 4-H enthusiast to a successful businesswoman and academic.

Discover how her early passion for beadwork and quilting evolved into a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, leading her to write her first business plan at 21 and launch an art quilting business. Education has always been a cornerstone of her life, as she started college at 16, juggled multiple majors, and eventually earned a Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship.

Learn about her close-knit family, especially her mother, who played a pivotal role in her business ventures. Together, they created a popular fry bread mix, packaged in charming rustic bags, and successfully marketed it to stores across South Dakota.

We also visit with a Navajo jewelry artist and Mother Earth Eco Remediation, a company dedicated to combating water pollution with environmentally friendly products. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the importance of maintaining cultural integrity while breaking new ground.

In this episode of Hidden Heritage we explore the traditional methods of drum-making, the importance of respect and rituals surrounding the drum, and the diverse perspectives from various tribes. The episode features visits to a drum-making company and interviews with tribal members who share their knowledge and stories about the drum's role in ceremonies and everyday life.

Join us as we uncover the rich traditions, craftsmanship, and the enduring heartbeat of the Native American culture through the powerful symbol of the drum.

This episode chronicles the inspiring story of Henry Red Cloud, a modern-day Lakota warrior and direct descendant of Chief Red Cloud. Born on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, Henry is leading efforts in renewable energy and sustainable building projects through his organization, Red Cloud Renewable. His innovative work aims to bring energy independence and economic development to American Indian communities while preserving cultural heritage and traditions.

Join us as we meet Henry on the Pine Ridge Reservation and learn about his groundbreaking initiatives, including the development of efficient solar heating systems and sustainable housing projects. Discover how his vision is creating a brighter, self-sufficient future for American Indian communities across the Great Plains and beyond.

Hello, I'm Paul LaRouche. Thank you for joining us this week on Hidden Heritage. This episode takes you back 500 years to the arrival of Europeans in America, the Great Westward Expansion, and finally, the closing of the frontier on the Northern Plains.

Meet Lakota elder Jerome Kills Small. Jerome shares his rich heritage and upbringing within the Pine Ridge Oglala Nation. Raised by elders who lived through significant historical events, Jerome offers a vivid recount of their stories, traditions, and resilience.

Listen as Jerome describes his early years speaking only Lakota, the secret ceremonies his elders held, and the impact of their teachings on his life. He reflects on the hardships faced during the Great Depression and World Wars, and how these experiences shaped their calm and generous nature.

Jerome's journey of rediscovery through storytelling and song brings to light the importance of cultural preservation and the power of community. He emphasizes the need for truth and spirit in our modern communication systems, inspiring a deeper connection to our heritage.

Join us for a heartfelt visit with the elders of the Northern Plains, and immerse yourself in the timeless wisdom and enduring spirit of their stories.

In this compelling episode, Paul LaRoche unveils the inspiring life of Father Donald A. Doll, an internationally acclaimed Jesuit priest and photographer. Father Don's journey began in 1962 at the St. Francis Mission School on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation, where he discovered his passion for photography. His work, which captures the elegant and compassionate stories of marginalized communities, has been featured in National Geographic and earned him the prestigious Kodak Crystal Eagle Award for impact in photojournalism.

Join us as we explore the intersection of two worlds through Paul's rediscovery of his hidden heritage and Father Don's impactful photographic journey, highlighting the importance of preserving and honoring Native American stories and voices.

Paul LaRoche shares his profound journey of discovery, from being adopted away from his Native American heritage to reconnecting with his biological Lakota family. Raised in a middle-class farming community, Paul's story unfolds as he learns about his true identity and the rich cultural legacy that was hidden from him.

In this episode, Paul discovers the inspiring work of the Cherokee National Youth Choir. Founded in 2000, the choir plays a pivotal role in preserving the Cherokee language and culture through music. Directors Mary Kay Henderson and Kathy Sierra discuss the choir's mission, the selection process, and the impact of the choir on its young members. They share touching anecdotes of how music and cultural pride have transformed the lives of these young singers, fostering leadership and self-confidence.

Join us as we explore the power of music in cultural preservation and the poignant stories of young Cherokee singers who carry their heritage forward with pride.

Join us as we explore the rich and vibrant stories of the Lakota people through the lens of Brulé, a band that seamlessly blends powerful music and deep cultural narratives. In this episode, we journey into the history and meaning behind the name Brulé, the significance of the eagle feather, and the unique challenges and triumphs of bringing traditional Lakota music to modern audiences.

Discover how the band Brulé, led by Paul LaRoche, navigates their musical journey, from humble beginnings to their current performances, while honoring their heritage and spreading a message of reconciliation and spiritual connection. Experience the power of their music, the depth of their stories, and the cultural significance that drives their mission.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their sound, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of Brulé and their dedication to preserving and sharing Lakota traditions.

During season one of Hidden Heritage, we filmed an episode called Conversations with the Elders. It was so popular that we immediately went to work meeting with more elders. In this episode of Hidden Heritage, we are going to visit with Wilson Roberts, a Choctaw elder from Oklahoma. Because most of the elders that we spoke with were still living during the early 1900s. Many of their life stories carry some cultural trauma from growing up through America's growing pains. Times have changed for the better, but I feel that it is important to let the elders speak open and honestly to better understand the plight of Native America during that part of American history. Join us now for a conversation with Wilson Roberts.

Wilson Roberts, also known by his Choctaw name Blue Thunder, shares his poignant story of being taken to a boarding school at a young age, enduring hardships, and the cultural suppression he faced. From escaping the school to working labor-intensive jobs, Wilson's narrative is one of resilience and finding solace in his heritage. He emphasizes the importance of preserving Native languages and traditions, reflecting on his journey of reconnecting with his roots and advocating for the wellbeing of future generations.

This episode sheds light on the struggles and strength of Native American elders, offering a window into the past and lessons for the future. Wilson's story is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Choctaw people and the broader Native American community.

Join Paul LaRoche, host of RFD-TV's "Hidden Heritage," on a captivating journey as he delves into the contemporary lives and cultures of Native American tribes in the new series "One Nation: The Tribes of North America."

From the creation of a stunning float for the Tournament of Roses Parade to exploring the diverse traditions and modern-day challenges of over 550 federally recognized tribes, this episode offers an in-depth look at Native America's rich tapestry. Paul, alongside his family and a dedicated team, sets out to provide a true representation of today's Native American life, far beyond the romanticized perceptions and historical traumas often depicted.

Discover the personal stories, cultural preservation efforts, and the drive for self-determination within Native communities. Learn about the unique roles of tribal governments, the importance of education, and the innovative ways tribes are integrating modern technology to keep their languages and traditions alive.

This episode is a profound reflection on the resilience, diversity, and vibrant future of Native American tribes, as seen through the eyes of those who live it. Don't miss this enlightening and heartfelt exploration of Native America today.