Indigenous Earth Community Podcast

What if the answers to the climate crisis are here?

In this special Indigenous Peoples’ Day episode, host Frank Oscar Weaver speaks with Indigenous leaders from across the world who are on the front lines of the fight to protect their lands and our planet. Impirita, an Indigenous leader from Peru, shares the harsh reality her community faces as industrial mining contaminates rivers that have provided life and sustenance for generations.

“All these rivers are contaminated, not just by sewage, but also by mining activities,” – Impirita

Frank reflects on the wisdom of Indigenous teachings, like those of Dr. Don Dexter from the Klamath Tribes, who explains how removing Indigenous people from their lands disrupts a natural cycle that keeps ecosystems in balance. Beth Tupara-Katene from Aotearoa (New Zealand) reminds us of the deep responsibility of reciprocity between people and nature, and the urgent need to protect sacred lands.

From the ancient mounds of the Tocobaga tribe in Florida, believed to protect the region from hurricanes, to the laws that silence the words "climate change," this episode explores the modern challenges Indigenous communities face. These storms and disasters are not merely natural—they are #UnnaturalDisasters, fueled by climate pollution.

🌍 Take Action:

• Support local tribes and advocate for Indigenous rights.

Join us in honoring the Earth by standing with those who have been defending it for generations.

Credits:

"It's a good day to be Indigenous” is a quote from 1998 independent film “Smoke Signals" Highly recommend it! 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoke_Signals_(film)

https://freesound.org/people/simongray/sounds/339321/

🎧 Listen now to learn how you can take meaningful steps to protect our planet and support Indigenous communities: Indigenous Earth Podcast.

What if rivers were more than just water—they were living beings with spirit, memory, and life?

In this episode, Frank Oscar Weaver speaks with Impirita Samani, an Indigenous Ashaninka leader from Peru, about her people's deep connection to rivers and the devastating impact of illegal mining.

"We treat the river as a living person, even though it may seem invisible, it is always present." – Impirita Samani

Impirita shares how environmental destruction not only pollutes their sacred waters but displaces Indigenous communities, severing cultural and spiritual ties to the land.

Learn how we can reconnect with rivers, not as guardians, but as children of the Earth, and take steps to protect these vital sources of life.

Impirita is sharing the beautiful Ikaro Ashaninka song “TSIROWANKO”, which pays homage to the magical bird Tsirotsi (Cacicus Cela). This bird is a spiritual guide in the Amazon, imitating the songs of the jungle and carrying messages from PAWA, the creator of the universe.

This song symbolizes the resilience of Ashaninka culture, the power of the feminine, and the deep bond with the natural world. Just as “TSIROWANKO” leads us to the heart of the Amazon, our episode delves into the threats Indigenous communities face from environmental destruction and cultural displacement, and how we can unite to protect the sacred rivers and lands.

🌟 Take Action:

• Support Impirita Samani’s work: Connect here.

Credits:

Photo by Neil Giardino

Music By: Impirita Samani 

Illegal gold mining thrives in Amazon, miners attack indigenous people | WION Climate Tracker | News

🎧 Listen now to discover how you can help protect rivers and support Indigenous communities: Indigenous Earth Podcast.

We explore the tradition of Pachamama Day, celebrated on August 1st in Latin America. This day, originating from the Andean communities of South America, is dedicated to honoring Pachamama, the goddess of fertility and the earth. Growing up, Pachamama Day was one of my favorite holidays, a time to slow down and enjoy traditional drinks like Yerba mate drink of terere made with seven medicinal herbs and Carrulim, a Paraguayan beverage made from Caña, Ruda, and Limón.

Join me as I recount a visit to Pedro Juan Caballero in Paraguay with my brother Jackson, where we met a medicine woman preparing herbs for these special drinks. You’ll learn about the significance of some of the herbs, and the ritual of giving back to Pachamama, echoing practices observed in the Andes. This episode is a celebration of gratitude and reciprocity, emphasizing how small acts of giving back to the earth can foster a deeper connection with nature.

What You’ll Gain:

• Cultural Enrichment: Understand the rich traditions and rituals of Pachamama Day.

00:00 Introduction to Pachamama Day

00:44 The Significance of Pachamama Day

01:14 Traditional Drinks and Their Origins

01:45 Personal Anecdotes and Beliefs

02:14 The Seven Herb Mixture

04:08 Giving Back to Pachamama

05:37 Call to Action and Conclusion

🌻 We would love to hear from you! Share your experiences and learnings about Pachamama on social media and tag us. Engage in community activities like cleanups and tree planting to deepen your connection with nature.

📧 Subscribe to our Indigenous Earth newsletter to watch a special video of me and my brother purchasing the herbs from the Yuyera a medicine woman, and see my Paraguayan grandmother help create this traditional drink. Thank you for joining us today. Until next time, stay connected with nature and with each other. Aguye!

https://www.indigenousearth.org/

• Indigenous wisdom and environmental practices

🌊 We have the honor of speaking with Beth Tupara-Katene, a dedicated champion of Māori rights and interests within the marine domain. Beth shares her profound connection to the ocean and the innovative Tangaroa Ararau Research Project, which aims to create an ocean-centric governance regime rooted in Māori customs and practices.

Learn more:

https://uhitai.org

Topics We Explore:

🌀 Indigenous Wisdom and Environmental Stewardship: Learn how Indigenous perspectives view everything as interconnected and interrelated, offering holistic approaches to modern environmental challenges.

🌏 Māori Ocean Governance: Discover how the Tangaroa Ararau Research Project places the ocean at the center of decision-making, ensuring sustainable use of marine resources and honoring Māori traditions.

🌡️ Climate Change and Marine Conservation: Understand the impacts of climate change on ocean ecosystems and explore solutions driven by indigenous knowledge.

🛶 Community and Cultural Connections: Hear personal stories from Beth and other guests about their deep, spiritual connections to their lands and waters, and how these bonds guide their environmental efforts.

Featured Guest: Beth Tupara-Katene

Beth Tupara-Katene has spent her career championing Māori rights and interests within the marine domain. With over a decade of experience in central government and Māori organizations, Beth brings invaluable insights into policy development, regulatory frameworks, and resource management strategies for the ocean. She played a significant role in implementing the Māori Commercial Claims Aquaculture Settlement and has worked tirelessly to amplify Māori voices in ocean governance. Her dedication to sustainable marine resource use and cultural stewardship makes her a powerful voice in addressing the urgent challenges facing our oceans today.

🐕 Support Rez Animal Protectors: While exploring the Navajo Nation capital of Window Rock, I witnessed the incredible efforts of my friends Zunneh-Bah and Nate, who rescue and care for animals in need. If you can, please support their work by visiting Rez Animal Protectors on Facebook and checking out their Amazon wish list. Every little bit helps.

https://www.facebook.com/AnimalsAreSacred

Listen Now:

🎧 Join us for an enriching conversation with Beth as she shares the design principles of the Tangaroa Ararau project and how we can integrate these principles into our daily lives. Visit our website Indigenous Earth for more information, and stay tuned for future episodes that dive even deeper into the wisdom of indigenous communities.

Quote:

“Indigenous people are the thought leaders in this space because we have always held the perspective that everything is interconnected.”

Call to Action:

Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 💚

🌻 We would love to hear from you!

Mixing by Jake Kelch

In this episode of Indigenous Earth, we delve into the powerful story of the Kauaʻi ʻōʻō, the last bird of its kind, whose final song is a stark reminder of the silence left behind by extinction. Join Frank Oscar Weaver as he shares his journey into birdwatching during the pandemic and an inspiring van life adventure that brought him closer to birds and conservation.

Learn more about Global Big Day, where bird enthusiasts worldwide use the eBird app to record, cherish, and protect the melodies that make our planet vibrant. Discover how you, too, can help safeguard these beautiful songs by participating and collecting the melodies of birds around you.

Gain insights, find your passion, and be part of a global movement that strives to preserve the soundscape of our precious planet.

Download the eBird app, and visit Cornell Lab's Global Big Day page for more information. 

Learn more about the Kauaʻi ʻōʻō bird. 

🌏

Connect with us: Indigenous Earth  

Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver

Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 💚

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We would love to hear from you! 

https://www.indigenousearth.org/contact/

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Join us on a remarkable journey, as we launch our first Earth Warrior challenge, 'Mapping Where Our Water Comes From.' This challenge isn't just about water; it's about exploring your personal connection with one of our planet's most essential resources—water.

Embark on an adventure that will lead you to uncover the hidden pathways of water, tracing its incredible journey from your tap back to its source in the heart of nature. Along this transformative path, you'll dive deep into the wisdom and experiences shared by Indigenous voices like Susan (Sue) Bell Chiblow and other community champions. Through their stories, you'll gain profound insights into our fundamental connection with Earth's life force. 

In this episode, I'll share my own captivating experience as I ventured alongside friends to explore the Rio Grande. Isaac Resendiz will join us to recount our journey and reflect on the stark reality of this iconic river's condition. Our hope is that our adventure serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role water plays in our lives and the responsibilities we bear as Earth Warriors.

This challenge is an invitation to become a more active steward of our planet, forging a connection with nature that transcends our daily interactions. So, dive deep into this transformative experience, map your water's journey, and connect on a profound level with our beautiful planet. 

As we embark on this Earth Warrior Challenge, let's remember:

'Recognizing the interconnectedness that we share with Earth and its resources.'

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Welcome to Indigenous Earth Community Podcast.

An empowering journey alongside Indigenous heroes from around the world. In ’Indigenous Earth,’ you’re not just a listener; you’re an active participant in a transformative mission to become true stewards of our planet. Explore inspiring stories and wisdom from Indigenous cultures, and on how to take steps to connect and protect our beautiful Earth.

🌏

Connect with us: Indigenous Earth  

Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver

Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 💚

🌻

We would love to hear from you! 

https://www.indigenousearth.org/contact/

✌️

Let's hear about the mysterious Florida Bigfoot, believed to be the revered guardian of Florida's wildlife. Journey with us deeper, as we unravel ways to truly honor and connect with Mother Earth. Beginning by paying homage to the ancestral lands under our feet and appreciating the people they've seen. Grasp the depth of wisdom urging us to not just give back what we receive from nature but to recognize the immense energy she sacrifices for us. Hear with your heart an poem to you connect with nature... and in these critical times when our planet and our Florida waters are threaten by multiple challenges, listen to those who are speaking up, and be inspired to also become an Earth Guardian. 

Sign the petition: 

https://www.floridarighttocleanwater.org/

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"Life" poem written and performed by Sumaya Quitugua

Shingle Creek words of support by Robert Rosa and Chris Castillo

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Bigfoot, also known as the Swamp cabbage man, Mayaka skunk, and Florida skunk ape, is a mysterious yet benevolent creature believed to reside in the Florida swamps, often helping other animals in need. 

One of the key environmental concerns highlighted in the episode is the potential impact of radioactive mining waste. The state of Florida has recently signed a bill allowing roads to be made with this waste, despite the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stating that it is potentially linked to cancer and describing it as radioactive. This decision raises concerns about the long-term effects on the environment and human health. The runoff from these roads could further pollute the water that flows into lakes and eventually into the Gulf, exacerbating the already existing issue of water pollution.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/florida-radioactive-roads-phosphogypsum-potentially-cancer-causing-mining-waste-bill-signed-ron-desantis/

Another pressing issue discussed in the episode is the importance of preserving wetlands. Wetlands play a crucial role in the ecosystem by filtering water and providing habitat for a diverse range of species. However, the ongoing development in Florida is threatening these wetlands. The loss of wetlands not only disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem but also contributes to increased flooding in the area. The wetlands act as natural buffers, absorbing excess water during heavy rainfall. Without them, the risk of flooding becomes even greater.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/supreme-court-epa-clean-water-act/

The episode also highlights the alarming record number of manatee deaths. Manatees, beloved marine mammals, are suffering due to the pollution and degradation of their habitat. This serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.

https://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/2023/01/11/800-florida-manatees-died-2022-starvation-lingers-most-survived-red-tide/

The episode concludes with a powerful message, urging listeners to treat Mother Earth with kindness and love, and to give more then we receive, as we all have a responsibility to honor and give back to the power that gave us life.

Connect with us: Indigenous Earth  

Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver

💚

Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 

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Ever found yourself scrolling through Instagram and suddenly confronted by images of devastating forest fires, unprecedented hurricanes, and record-breaking heatwaves? Or maybe you found yourself in the front lines of climate change? With 80% of the global population experiencing the hottest July ever recorded, it's natural to ask: Can anything be done to combat this escalating crisis? In the midst of such chaos, a beacon of hope emerges. How is the next generation harnessing ancient wisdom to address contemporary climate challenges? Tune in to explore the powerful role of native youth empowerment in shaping our planet's future.

In this episode we talk to Anagali Duncan, an young voice from the Keetoowah and Cherokee tribes. This episode unveils Anagali's use of poetry to address pressing environmental concerns, with a focus on the sacredness of water in Indigenous traditions. Additionally, gain insights into his role as an advocate for Indigenous youth education, championing the need for greater representation and awareness. Listen in for a deep dive into the intersection of traditional ecological knowledge, modern challenges, and the transformative potential of young Indigenous voices.

Support and learn more about UNITY Earth Ambassadors:

https://unityinc.org/earth-ambassadors/

Connect with ᎠᎾᎦᎵ ᏛᎩ Anagali:

https://www.instagram.com/anagali.dvgi/

Connect with 7 Ravens:

https://www.instagram.com/7_ravens/

“Indigenous youth, you hold so much generational knowledge especially with like environmental science and environmental protection. We have thousands of years of traditional ecological knowledge. ” - Anagali 

🌎

Welcome to Indigenous Earth Community Podcast.

Where we celebrate Indigenous heroes from around the world, and learn from them on how to honor the traditions of protecting the planet. We discuss actionable tips on how to connect to our beautiful planet while lessening our daily impact.

🌏

Connect with us: Indigenous Earth  

Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver

Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 💚

🌻

We would love to hear from you! 

https://www.indigenousearth.org/contact/

✌️

Let's meet Jm (him/her) from the Tboli people of the Philippines, a fashion designer using organic materials found in nature to craft stunning, sustainable fashion pieces. Jm's passion extends beyond just fashion; she aspires to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders through his work. The conversations reveal her journey from a child dreaming of fashion design to his innovative approach to sustainable fashion today.

We further delve into emotionally powerful stories, examining the challenges, triumphs, and undying spirit of these creative individual. Listen to Jm's story about how he used the negativity he faced when first starting out as fuel to create even better designs.

In this episode we discover that even in adversity, creativity finds a way. By using the raw materials of our environment,Jm was able to create beauty while inspiring a new generation to care about our planet. With each leaf, each piece of bark, weaving dresses that tells a story of resilience, innovation, and hope. That is the heart of Dahon Fashion!

🌿Connect and support DAHON FASHION:

https://www.facebook.com/jmganuan

[email protected]

☀️Connect with Arjho Turner:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjhoturner/

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We hope you've been inspired by our conversation! Here's how you can keep the momentum going:

Keep Listening: This story is just one thread in the tapestry of indigenous creativity and environmental leadership. So, keep tuning in to hear more captivating narratives that weave a beautiful future.

Share the Inspiration: If this episode moved you, it's sure to inspire a friend as well. Pass on the wisdom and strength found in these stories by sharing this podcast with someone you care about.

Connect with Jm: Her journey doesn't end with this episode. Connect with Jm directly and support his passion for sustainable fashion. Your help could provide the tools he needs to keep inspiring his community and the world.

Rate Us: If you appreciate the stories we bring to light, let us know! Give us a good rating on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback helps us keep illuminating the powerful narratives of indigenous communities across the globe.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. Together, we're making a difference one conversation at a time.💚

🌏

Connect with us: Indigenous Earth  

Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver

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🎤 Catching the Green Wave: Mentorship in Climate and Sustainability Careers

🌳In this insightful episode of Indigenous, we dive deep into exploring personal values, mentorships, and actionable steps towards carving out a fulfilling career in the environmental sector. With Brooke Nez Wheeler and Daniel Hill as guests, the conversation is filled with valuable insights for those seeking to navigate the world of green jobs.

The episode starts with a profound discussion on the importance of identifying personal values to find fulfilling work. Here, Brooke highlights the significance of mentorships and provides practical advice for individuals at different stages of their career, be it in college or in the professional world.

The conversation shifts as we welcome Daniel Hill, Senior Manager with the Environmental Defense Fund and the creator of the #OpenDoorClimate initiative. He sheds light on the community of climate professionals volunteering their time to mentor individuals seeking careers in the environmental sector, providing an excellent resource for listeners.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a call to action, emphasizing the importance of every job becoming a climate job to address the pressing issue of climate change.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make their mark in the environmental sector, be it students seeking guidance on their path, professionals contemplating a career shift towards sustainability, or anyone passionate about the environment and eager to make a difference. The shared wisdom, experiences, and resources offered in this episode provide a crucial road map for navigating the world of green careers.

Please let us know how you like this mini series focused on Green Careers! 

https://www.indigenousearth.org/contact/

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Connect with Brooke Nez Wheeler.

Connect with Daniel Hill.

https://www.opendoorclimate.com/

Degrees: Real talk about planet-saving careers

"Open Door Climate is a community of climate professionals volunteering to guide those interested in pursuing a climate or green job. It's about making the process easier and more accessible."

🌎

Welcome to Indigenous Earth Community Podcast.

Where we celebrate Indigenous heroes from around the world, and learn from them on how to honor the traditions of protecting the planet. We discuss actionable tips on how to connect to our beautiful planet while lessening our daily impact.

🌏

Connect with us: Indigenous Earth  

Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver

🌻

Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 💚