Winds Of Change

Finding my culture and skiing came hand in hand—both taught me how to honor the land – Connor Ryan

Welcome to Winds of Change: Native Voices, a podcast brought to you by Wyoming Humanities. Hosted by Emy Digrappa, we explore the rich histories, cultures, and stories of the people and places that shape Wyoming—and beyond.

In this special series, we celebrate Indigenous perspectives by inviting Native American leaders, thinkers, and storytellers to share their experiences. From adventure and activism to tradition and modern challenges, these conversations honor the resilience and wisdom of Native communities.

Born at the foot of the Rockies, Connor Ryan (Hunkpapa Lakota) is a professional skier, filmmaker, and activist who blends outdoor adventure with Indigenous wisdom. In this episode, Connor shares how he reclaims skiing as a sacred practice, his journey reconnecting with Lakota traditions, and the transformative power of bringing Native voices to the slopes. From duct-taped gear to award-winning films, his story is one of resilience, reciprocity, and redefining belonging in the outdoors.

Listen now to explore the intersection of sport, culture, and healing.

Resources:

• Spirit of the Peaks – Connor’s award-winning documentary blending skiing, Lakota traditions, and Indigenous land stewardship.
• NativesOutdoors – Connor’s collaboration with this Indigenous-led outdoor advocacy group (founded by Len Necefer).
  • Website: natives-outdoors.org
  • Instagram: @nativesoutdoors
• Hunkpapa Lakota – Connor’s tribal affiliation (a band of the Lakota/Dakota people).
• Black Hills (Paha Sapa) – Sacred Lakota lands where Connor reconnected with his culture. "Paha Sapa" is a Lakota term that translates to "Black Hills". It refers to the mountain range located in southwestern South Dakota and extending into Wyoming. The name is derived from the Lakota language, where "paha" means hills or mountains, and "sapa" means black.

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Language isn’t just about words—it’s about a worldview. It holds a whole way of understanding the world, relationships with land, and with each other. - Ellen Bradley

Welcome to Winds of Change, hosted by Emy Digrappa and brought to you by Wyoming Humanities. In this episode, we celebrate Native Voices with our special guest, Ellen Bradley, a skier, scientist, and filmmaker of Lingít heritage. From the snow-covered slopes of Southeast Alaska’s coastal mountains to the shimmering waters of the Salish Sea, Ellen blends traditional ecological knowledge with modern science to amplify Indigenous voices.

Join us as Ellen shares her journey of self-determination and resilience, exploring the depth of her connection to Lingít land, her family’s story, and her efforts to revitalize language and culture. From the challenges of assimilation to the hope sparked by language learning and cultural resurgence, this conversation illuminates how honoring tradition and science can shape visions for the future.

#WindsOfChange #IndigenousVoices #EllenBradley #Lingít #Podcast #TraditionalKnowledge #Storytelling #CulturalRevitalization

Resources from Ellen Bradley’s Interview

• 
  TCLL (Lingít Culture, Language, and Literacy)
  A program in Juneau, Alaska, that immerses youth in Lingít language and culture.
  (Check local Juneau school district or Sealaska Heritage Institute for information.)
• Sealaska Heritage Institute
  Supports Indigenous language revitalization, cultural education, and artistic expression in Lingít, Haida, and Tsimshian communities.
• Alaska Native Language Center
  A hub for language revitalization for Alaska Native languages.
• Tongass National Forest
  The largest temperate rainforest in the U.S., located in Lingít territory in Southeast Alaska.
• Indigenous Environmental Network (IEN)
  Ahttp://ienearth.org/ network dedicated to protecting the rights of Indigenous peoples and our Mother Earth through action and education.
• https://www.mountainfilm.org/films/let-my-people-go-skiing/ Ellen Bradley” Let My People Go Skiing: Tlingit skier and scientist Ellen Bradley (Tlingit) returns to her traditional homelands in Southeast Alaska. Weaving ancestral knowledge, scientific understanding and passion for her sport, Let My People Go Skiing follows Bradley’s journey to help her community reclaim its place at the forefront of the stories told about their homelands

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🗣️ "I grew up in a household where Shoshone was spoken. That language shaped my world—now I’m working to make sure it shapes the future too." – Lynette St. Clair

On this episode of Winds of Change, host Emy DiGrappa welcomes Lynette St. Clair—Shoshone linguist, educator, and cultural preservationist from Fort Washakie, Wyoming. Recently honored as one of USA Today’s Women of the Year, Lynette shares her journey growing up on the Wind River Reservation, preserving the Shoshone language, and bringing it to screens through major media platforms.

We explored the deep roots of the Shoshone language, the challenges of representation in education, and the importance of listening to and honoring elders. Lynette also reflects on building community-based language resources like the Newe Daygwap app to teach and learn the Eastern Shoshone language. And why cultural identity is essential for healing and resilience in Native youth.

This is a conversation about inspiration, connection, and carrying stories forward in a fast-changing world.

📚 Shoshone Language & Cultural Resources

1. Newe Daygwap app (Shoshone Language App)
   A mobile app developed by the Eastern Shoshone Tribe to teach and preserve the Shoshone language using local voices.
2. Shoshone Dictionary
   Compiled by Reba Teran and others, this is a foundational resource used by educators and learners: https://www.hcn.org/issues/issue-303/she-builds-new-words-in-an-ancient-tongue/
3. Indigenous Language Institute (ILI)
   Supports tribes in documenting, revitalizing, and promoting Native languages across the U.S.
   🌐 www.ilinative.org
4. Endangered Languages Project
   A collaborative platform where you can explore language data, recordings, and revitalization efforts worldwide.
   🌐 www.endangeredlanguages.com
5. Language Conservancy – Shoshone Projects
   Works with tribes to create language apps, dictionaries, and curriculum.
   🌐 www.languageconservancy.org
   
   

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As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

In this episode of Winds of Change, host Emy Digrappa speaks with Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, artist, and cultural advocate Jhane Myers—an enrolled member of the Comanche Nation with Blackfeet heritage. Jhane shares her journey from a childhood shaped by traditional arts to a career spanning marketing, fashion, Native regalia making, and film production.

Listeners will hear how Jhane’s deep connection to her roots influences her artistic vision and fuels her mission to preserve Native languages and cultural heritage. From her acclaimed work on Prey and the Free Leonard Peltier documentary to her handcrafted dolls and powwow dance championships, Jhane embodies the strength, creativity, and resilience of Native communities.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about identity, artistry, and the power of storytelling across generations.

About Jhane Myers

• Jhane Myers IMDb (filmography and credits)

• Known for her work on Prey (2022), Free Leonard Peltier, and 1883
  
  

📚 Cultural & Language Preservation

• Comanche Language Program – Includes classes, dictionaries, and new speaker training: https://comancheacademy.com/350188_2
  
  
• Comanche Nation Charter School – Immersion-based education and language preservation
  Website (navigate to Education or Language Program)

🤝 Community & Connection

• Shoshone Comanche Reunion – Annual cultural exchange between sister tribes

• Mentors & Collaborators
  
  
  • Kaaren Ochoa – Producer and mentor to Jhane

  • Lynette St. Clair – Shoshone linguist working in film language translation

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• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy
  
  
• Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe!

As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

🧵 “Quilting isn’t just for old people—it’s for anyone with a creative spirit and a story to tell.” — Miracle Seminole

✨ “Each quilt carries prayers, patience, and the love of our ancestors.” — Cherokee Brown

In this heartfelt episode of Winds of Change, host Emy DiGrappa sits down with Cherokee Brown and her daughter, Miracle Seminole—both enrolled members of the Northern Arapaho Tribe—to explore how quilting, creativity, and cultural tradition serve as powerful tools for healing, self-expression, and community revitalization.

Cherokee shares her personal journey into star quilt making, inspired by her grandmother’s love for arts and crafts and guided by a deep spiritual connection to her ancestors. As a mother, she passed down not just the skill but the soul of quilting to Miracle, who found strength and purpose in the tradition after surviving a life-altering experience. Together, they speak openly about grief, recovery, intergenerational trauma, and the importance of reclaiming cultural identity through Indigenous art.

Miracle, now a rising quilt artist herself, envisions a future where quilting isn't just a family legacy but a way to uplift her community—one stitch at a time. From smudging rituals to chakra designs and bold aspirations of launching a community sewing space, this conversation is full of inspiration, resilience, and hope.

Whether you're Native or non-Native, an artist or admirer, this episode offers a powerful reminder: creativity can be medicine, and tradition can be revolutionary.

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As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

Stay in the middle of the road and plow as much as you can. Stay out of the furrows and the ruts on the left and the right. And if you're damned if you do and damned if you don't, then do. – Alan Simpson

In this episode of Winds of Change, Wyoming Humanities pays tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of former U.S. Senator Alan K. Simpson of Wyoming. Known for his sharp wit, bipartisan approach, and unwavering commitment to public service, Simpson left an indelible mark on both his home state and the nation.

This episode offers a glimpse into the mind of a seasoned statesman, providing both historical context and forward-looking insights. 

A Statesman's Journey

Join me as I revisit a candid conversation with Senator Simpson, where he shares:

• His motivation for entering politics and passion for legislation

• The importance of maintaining a sense of humor in public life

• His perspective on the current state of American politics

Wisdom for the Next Generation

Simpson offers invaluable advice for young people interested in politics:

• The critical role of active participation in democracy

• The importance of staying centered and avoiding extremes

• Why engagement at the local level matters

Tackling Modern Political Challenges

Simpson doesn't shy away from addressing current issues:

• His concerns about money's influence in politics

• Thoughts on campaign finance reform

• The need for bipartisanship and compromise

Learn More About Alan Simpson’s Life

• https://cowboystatedaily.com/2025/03/18/joan-barron-alan-simpson-grew-to-be-a-statesman/

• https://www.jhnewsandguide.com/news/state/sen-al-simpson-93-had-wit-deep-jackson-roots/article_74b8c132-01b9-11f0-b54d-9f59e5783269.html

• https://apnews.com/article/senator-alan-simpson-dies-faf4826aba710283e4f4e6581082a41f

• https://oilcity.news/wyoming/2025/03/16/photos-alan-k-simpson-a-life-in-photos/

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As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

I believe that inside of every single person, especially. Especially when they're in their darkest times, there's a little voice in their head that says, I want to be more, I want to do more, I want to say more, and I want to live more. - Norberto Orellana

In this episode of Winds of Change, I sit down with Norberto Orellana, a motivating individual who has challenged himself to become an entrepreneur. Norberto's journey from homelessness and abuse to founding his own company in Gillette, Wyoming. We love hearing the diversity of stories and voices in this series of Entrepreneurs, innovators and creatives of Wyoming!

Norberto shares his transition from pursuing a Ph.D. in chemistry to becoming a business leader and motivational speaker. 

We discuss:

• His early experiences with homelessness and poverty

• The pivotal moment on a bus that changed his perspective

• How he became a three-time TEDx speaker

Overcoming Adversity: Despite facing numerous challenges, including cerebral palsy and a difficult upbringing, Norberto discusses:

• The importance of positive audacity and lifelong learning

• How he balances his healthcare leadership role with entrepreneurship

• Norberto's mission is to help others tap into their inner strength and achieve their goals

• Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

Resources:

• To learn more about Norberto go to Norberto Orellana Enterprises.

• For more information about the Wyoming Humanities Council and their initiatives, go to thinkwy.org to explore their programs, events, and resources.

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As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

“My mission is to extend the reach of appreciation for science and the natural world through rich audio-visual experiences that are entertaining and can be powerful vehicles for learning, for self-education or for teaching” – Reilly Dibner

In this episode of Winds of Change, I sit down with Reilly Dibner, an ecologist turned stop-motion animator who's bringing science to life through art. Reilly's journey from studying frogs in Irish bogs to creating visual stories about Wyoming's horned lizards is fascinating.

A Unique Blend of Science and Art

Reilly's background in ecology, combined with her self-taught artistic skills, has led her to create Ecosystem Films. This creative production studio specializes in stop-motion animations about science and the natural world. Her mission? To extend appreciation for science through entertaining and educational audio-visual experiences.

From Field Research to Frame-by-Frame Animation we explore how Reilly translates her scientific knowledge into visually compelling stories:

• The process of creating stop-motion animations

• Using hand-painted paper cut-outs to bring scientific concepts to life

• Combining voiceover work with visual storytelling

Challenges and Opportunities

Reilly shares insights into:

• The technical aspects of stop-motion animation

• Balancing scientific accuracy with artistic expression

• Collaborating with scientists and filmmakers

• Wyoming's Creative Economy

As a recipient of the Wyoming Innovation Partnership's Creative Economy Startup Challenge, Reilly discusses:

• The importance of initiatives supporting local creatives

• How her work contributes to Wyoming's creative landscape

• Future projects and collaborations in the pipeline

This episode offers a unique perspective on the intersection of science, art, and entrepreneurship in Wyoming. Reilly's story demonstrates how diverse skills and passions can come together to create something truly innovative.

Resources

• Visit ecosystemfilms.com to learn more about Reilly Dibner's creative production studio specializing in stop motion animations about science and the natural world. The website is currently under construction but contains valuable material about Reilly's work.

• Follow Ecosystem Films on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes looks, and visual content related to Reilly Dibner's stop motion animations and her mission to extend the reach of appreciation for science and the natural world through rich audiovisual experiences.

• Explore reillydibner.com to discover Reilly Dibner's voiceover work, which is related to her creative endeavors and offers a separate aspect of her professional expertise.

• Subscribe to Winds of Change to never miss an episode and stay updated on the stories and conversations brought to you by Wyoming Humanities Council.

• For more information about the Wyoming Humanities Council and their initiatives, go to thinkwy.org to explore their programs, events, and resources.

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As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

Explore how Francesca King, originally from London, made her journey to Wyoming and immersed herself in the literary scene. Her innovative Footnote Literary Consultancy is breaking new ground, offering writers in the state a chance to accelerate their journey to publication while fostering a sense of community. Join us as we talk about Francesca's journey from the eclectic streets of London to the tranquil plains of Wyoming, and how she is learning new ways to connect with writers across the state. She shares her journey and insights into the world of literary consultancy. Through Footnote, Francesca seeks to bridge the gap in Wyoming's literary landscape by offering professional editing services and creating a supportive community for writers.

My special guest is Francesca King

Francesca King, the visionary behind Footnote Literary Consultancy, provides editing and assessment services for fiction writers. She is an accomplished fiction writer with a master's degree in creative writing from London and extensive experience in the MFA program at the University of Wyoming. She holds an MA in Creative Writing from the University of London and an MFA in Fiction from the University of Wyoming, where she works as the Director of the Writing Center. Currently, she is immersed in crafting her latest novel, The Footnote, a captivating narrative inspired by her own life experiences. Her commitment to nurturing Wyoming's literary talent and providing accessible resources reflects her dedication to the creative writing community.

In this episode:

• Discover how Wyoming's creative economy can inspire your writing journey. 

• Learn the opportunities of creative startup efforts around Wyoming, ranging from film production and music to literary and visual arts.

• Be inspired to kickstart your own business and turn your passion into a profession. 

• Hear Francesca’s view on the impact of AI on academic honesty and how it shapes the future of writing and research. 

• Find writers in your community to fuel your creativity and growth. 

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit www.footnotelit.com to learn more about Footnote Literary Consultancy and its professional editing services, including personalized manuscript assessment and consulting. 

• Follow Footnote Literary Consultancy on Instagram at @footnotelit for updates, writing tips, and information about upcoming workshops and events. 

• Stay tuned on social media for updates on Francesca King's novel, The Footnote, and potential publication announcements. 

• Subscribe to the Winds of Change podcast and visit thinkwy.org for more thought-provoking episodes and stories from Wyoming Humanities Council.

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“I think the thing that makes something a piece of artwork is the intention that an artist imbues into it.”- John Wilhelm

Want to deepen your understanding of sound preservation and creative storytelling? Discover the intersection of art and environment with audio engineer John Wilhelm as we explore Wyoming's Creative Economies and Innovation. In this episode, John Wilhelm discusses his involvement in various musical endeavors in Laramie, Wyoming, showcasing the diverse creative talent present in the state. His project, the Audio Library of the West, emphasizes the importance of creativity and innovation in preserving the sonic identity of Wyoming. This exploration sheds light on the unique and vibrant creative economies within the state.

My special guest is John Wilhelm

John Wilhelm, an accomplished sound artist, musician, and audio engineer, is based in Laramie, Wyoming. His work has earned him the prestigious 2024 Wyoming Innovation Partnership ArtsWork Investing in Wyoming's Creative Economies award. As the creative sound artist behind the Audio Library of the West, an online hub for western field sound recordings and audio-based art, John's creative endeavor lies in the fusion of sound preservation. With a background in theatrical sound design and a deep-seated passion for music, John's journey as an audio engineer reflects his dedication to exploring the intricate relationship between art and the environment. His innovative approach to field recording encapsulates his commitment to preserving, discovering and sharing the distinct sounds of the West, offering a captivating auditory experience. John is a founding member of the Garrett Guitar Quartet, performing classical and contemporary music for the guitar. 

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the thriving creative economies and innovation in Wyoming, uncovering unique insights and inspiration from the many creative people living in Wyoming. 

• Discover the pivotal role of audio engineering in music production, gaining a deeper understanding of the technical and artistic aspects that shape the music you listen to.

• Get an exclusive overview of the Audio Library of the West project, delving into the rich cultural and environmental tapestry of the Western region through sound. 

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Wyoming Humanities Council - For more information about the podcast and its episodes, visit ThinkWY.org to subscribe and never miss a show. 

• High Iron - Check out the website highiron.org to learn more about the public art project celebrating the history of labor of the transcontinental railroad and the people who built the railroad. 

• Audio Library of the West on Instagram - Follow the Audio Library of the West on Instagram for future news and updates about the project. 

• Bandcamp - Visit Bandcamp, a music retail platform utilized by independent musicians, to explore and purchase high-quality digital downloads of sound recordings and support independent artists. 

• Portable Recording Equipment - Stay tuned for updates on the launch of the Audio Library of the West in the fall of this year and learn how to participate with portable recording equipment and sending it around Wyoming.

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• Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe!

• As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!