Kai sits down with Andrew “Cheii” Nez for a real conversation about friendship, nicknames that stick, and how serving youth shaped his walk with Jesus. From the camp cabin days to late-night laughs and honest questions, Cheii shares how seeing hurting kids softened his heart toward ministry—and why community, prayer, and showing up with love matter so much. The episode lands with encouragement and prayer for Cheii, his family, and the students he hopes to reach.

From $3 frybread to steamed corn at 50¢, Kyle shares how rez food sales became both a family tradition and a ministry—funding missions, serving elders, and teaching humility when customers (and prices!) test your heart. We talk planning and location, keeping prices accessible, why purpose > profit, and what God has been showing Kyle about seeing every customer as God's child. Plus: Shiprock pride, “Rez Ball” film connections, and the story behind IBC's student food sales for mission trips.

In this grounded, hope-filled conversation, Kai sits down with worship leader Micah Miller (San Carlos Apache) to talk about worship beyond performance—worship as presence. Micah shares a vulnerable moment after leading a service when he realized he'd made the crowd his “audience.” That shift—“Jesus is the audience”—reframed everything. Together they trace how worship can carry us through grief, why Scripture shapes our posture (see 1 Samuel 16:23), and how to navigate insecurity, comparison, and the pressure to “put on a show.” Expect honest stories, a little rez humor (yes, the mic-check chaos), and practical encouragement for musicians and non-musicians alike. If you've wondered how to worship when you're hurting—or how to keep your heart right on stage—this one's for you.

Emmanuel and Aaron explore the 4 S's from Intimacy with the Almighty—Simplicity, Silence, Solitude, Surrender—with practical steps you can live this week. Scripture-centered, Indigenous + Christ-focused, and honest about busyness, burnout, and learning to be still before God.

Kai opens up about a summer of grief, the choice to surrender in worship, and the hope Jesus gives. From WLS to the Hope Team, this convo is for anyone carrying something heavy. Scripture: John 16:33. Content advisory: mentions of grief/suicide. If you need help, dial 988 (US) or check local resources. New episodes FRIDAY. Rooted in Culture. United in Faith

In this heartfelt and down-to-earth episode, Will and Emmanuel come together for a special conversation titled “The Handoff.” It's more than just a chat—it's a moment of reflection, laughter, and spiritual insight as Will officially passes the mic to Emmanuel.

Together, they look back on the journey of RezRootz, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, the transitions they've walked through, and how God has been faithfully working through it all. Will opens up about stepping away, Emmanuel talks about stepping up, and both explore how obedience and growth come in unexpected ways.

️ Episode Highlights:

• The story behind “The Handoff”

• Emmanuel's experience stepping into leadership

• Will's reflections on ministry, legacy, and letting go

• Funny moments, honest struggles, and spiritual takeaways

• An encouragement to the next generation of Indigenous leaders

If you've ever felt the weight of responsibility, the pull of calling, or the tension between letting go and moving forward—this episode is for you.

This isn't the end. It's the handoff. And the mission continues.

Season 5, Episode 11 – "Hope Team Origin Story"

In this powerful and emotional episode, William Axtell, founder and host of RezRootz, sits down with Dr. Jason Koppen, President of Indigenous Bible College, for a deep and heartfelt conversation on calling, leadership, and legacy.

Together, they reflect on the origins of RezRootz during the early days of COVID, how God shaped the vision through seasons of lament, and the impact the podcast has had across Native communities. Jason also shares his personal testimony—from plans to become a medical missionary to his unexpected, life-defining call to serve Native peoples.

Will opens up about his own transition, stepping away from RezRootz and into a new chapter of ministry back home in Washington. The two discuss the weight and beauty of Indigenous ministry, healing, reconciliation, and what it means to disciple young Native men in Christ.

This episode captures not just stories—but a movement.

️ Highlights include:

• The story behind the start of RezRootz

• Jason's journey to IBC

• Ministry in the pandemic & reaching youth through livestreams

• Will's emotional goodbye and future podcast plans

• A heartfelt prayer and commissioning

Season 5, Episode 11 – "Natives 2 France" In this special episode, host Emmanuel sits down with Josiah Butler to talk about his summer ministry trip, Natives 2 France. Josiah shares the highlights of his journey—what he saw, what he learned, and how God moved through his experience overseas. From deep spiritual lessons to unforgettable cultural moments (including his love for croissants and other French food), this episode is full of passion, insight, and stories that will inspire. Emmanuel listens in with amazement—and we think you will too!

️ Welcome to RezRootz Podcast! Rooted in culture, united in Christ. We explore stories of faith, culture, and community, featuring diverse voices from Indigenous and Christian backgrounds. Join us every two weeks as we dive into meaningful conversations that inspire, inform, and connect! New Episodes Every Two Weeks! Available on all major podcast platforms! Hosted by William Axtell Produced by Emmanuel Bryant

In this episode, Emmanuel and Will team up to discuss integrity—what it truly means in the life of a believer and how it plays a role in Spiritual Formation. They reflect on their time at Indian Bible College, how integrity has shaped their faith, and how it continues to impact their ministry. Join the conversation as they share personal insights, struggles, and encouragement for walking in integrity daily.

In this episode, Emmanuel hosts with special guest Kai Lucio to discuss the book S.H.A.P.E. by Erik Rees, which guides readers in discovering God's unique purpose for their lives. Kai opens up about how the book revealed his spiritual gifts, how these insights are shaping his ministry, and how he plans to apply them in upcoming opportunities. They also dive into what God and the Holy Spirit have been teaching him throughout this journey.