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Native Americans share ancestral stories, history, & culture. www.nativechoctalk.com
Episodes
Thursday May 11, 2023
Thursday May 11, 2023
Since season 2, I’ve had the pleasure of following the journey of Shell Shaker, a Chickasaw Opera by Composer, Jerod Impichchaachaaha Tate.
This opera is still being composed, and will be the very first of its kind. Even the libretto is in Chickasaw, and every inch of the production, composition, costuming, etc. is led by Native Americans. The premier date has been changed and the new date will be announced soon. I hope you’ll join me at the premier!
After I interviewed Jerod Impichchaachaaha Tate, I then met with the ever-talented, Kirsten Kunkle and Kate Morton (season 3, episode 11) who will perform leading roles in the opera.
Now, meet Mark Billy - a Choctaw baritone who will also star in the opera and who took some time out of his performance schedule to visit with me. In this episode, we discussed:
- His fascinating role in Shell Shaker
- What it means to be a Verdi Baritone
- Our view on small towns and Wal-Marts
- His exciting new performance announcement!
- A harrowing health scare that resulted in Mark losing a year of his life
By the way, we know there are a lot of Choctaws out there with the last name Billy. Feel free to give us a shout if you’re a Billy and want to connect with Mark – he’d love to hear from you!
This unprecedented opera will be a pivotal moment in the Native American arts. I hope you’ll join me in supporting these artists, this composer, and their upcoming performances!
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Thursday May 04, 2023
Thursday May 04, 2023
“What might the first World Indigenous Skyworld Space Stations look like? We think in circles with no beginning or end. We go into space as a human right and right of self-determination. We go into space for development, exploration, and cultural preservation.”
These are the words and the vision of my guest, Dan Hawk of the Oneida Nation, and Principal Scientist at United First Nations Planetary Defense who answers the question for me, “Why should Native Americans go into space?” The answer goes well beyond going to the moon and to Mars and beyond. This is about helping national security and all Indigenous populations. A program for Native Americans in space is the way into space for other communities as well. And Dan is pioneering the way for such a program for our Indigenous people.
Today, you’ll hear from Dan about:
- Who owns space
- The Oneida people
- Stories of Dan’s ancestors
- What is “space sovereignty”
- United First Nations Planetary Defense
- Growing up on the Oneida Reservation in Wisconsin
- A view of the dust bowl you may not have heard about
- The story about what inspired Dan to go into his profession
- Dan’s work with NASA, his support of the Montana Space Grant, and more
- The story of the Golden Eagle Rocket that’s now in the Smithsonian institute
- How an American Indian space program can help Missing & Murdered Indigenous People
Check out these links:
- BisonSat - Kootenai College: https://cubesat.skc.edu
- Artemis Space Program: https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/
- United First Nations Planetary Defense: https://ufnpd.wordpress.com
- AISES - American Indian Science and Engineering Society: https://www.aises.org
- Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority: https://airspaceportok.com
Yakoke, Dan for your commitment to sovereignty for Native Americans beyond the boundaries of earth.
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Thursday Apr 27, 2023
Thursday Apr 27, 2023
I’m incredibly proud to be a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. But I’m even prouder when I reach out to our Chief and he’s willing to share with us about the latest goals and the future of our tribe!
Chief Gary Batton and I met in Hugo, Oklahoma to talk about:
- This year’s election
- Future plans for the tribe
- Upcoming capital projects
- Choctaw Nation’s Cultural goals
- Conversations with Governor Stitt
- The LEAP program (lease to purchase)
- The latest on the aftermath of McGirt vs Oklahoma
- The excitement & info around the upcoming new Choctaw Landing gaming resort in Hochatown
- I asked how he does it all, being constantly on the go (you’ll be interested to hear his answer when I asked how many hours of sleep he actually gets!)
Yakoke, Chief for being transparent and forthright with us. We appreciate your many hard hours and care and concern for the Choctaw people. God bless!
Link to the LEAP program: https://www.choctawnation.com/services/?_sft_category=housing
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Tuesday Apr 18, 2023
Tuesday Apr 18, 2023
It’s time to turn off the t.v., turn the lights down low and settle in for a creeeeepy episode of Native ChocTalk. But be sure to keep a blanket close by in case you need to hide underneath.
He’s said to have claws like the eagle – sharp talons in the shape of a teardrop. Natives in the U.S. say the babies alone can get up to 8 feet tall and some Canadian tribes say 15-20 feet is the norm. Some enjoy the thought of a creature whose face we stamp on a t-shirt. Others caution us to avoid the ferocious giant.
We know him as Bigfoot – the hairy, elusive beast who keeps trackers, hunters and fans busy all year long.
Hear about the origin of Bigfoot, enjoy a cameo appearance from my friends and former guests, Solomon and LaVon Tonihka, who talk about Bigfoot’s appearances in Wright City, Oklahoma. And I'll share some eerie Choctaw folklore such as the Shadow People (Nalusa Falaya) and a version of The Leflore County Bigfoot War that I wrote just for you.
Please enjoy a safe and fun Halloween but whatever you do, keep an eye out for Bigfoot and Nalusa Falaya!
Season 1, Episode 12: “It’s a Creepy Native ChocTalk Halloween! Bigfoot & Spooky Choctaw Folklore”
https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
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Tuesday Apr 11, 2023
Tuesday Apr 11, 2023
In season 2, episode 18, I got together with Megan Baker from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Historic Preservation Department. We talked through her extensive work in tracing the history of our Choctaw people, decade by decade, in monthly articles of the Iti Fabvssa in our Choctaw paper called Biskinik.
Back by popular demand, and here to share more insights about our Choctaw history - welcome back Megan!
We left off last time in the 1900s at a time when President Theodore Roosevelt made it known that Oklahoma and Indian Territories would enter the Union as a single state (rather than two), as had been proposed. With this, Indian Territory faced a future in which they would be enjoined with Oklahoma Territory.
The next few decades were crucial. You’ve got statehood and life for the Choctaw after land allotments, a fight against termination of sovereignty and more.
You’ll also hear more about:
- Megan playing stickball in front of the Eifel Tower. What? Yep!
- What homestead vs. surplus meant, land restrictions, per capita payments, guardians, land allotments, the Indian New Deal, the Indian Welfare Act, taxation and more
- The Oklahoma Land Run
- Sonic Drive-In, and how their headquarters being in Oklahoma is significant to us Okies
- Chief Belvin (bless his heart)
- Why Carl Albert was underestimated (and why Megan is a nerd and is his #1 fan)
- The newsletter called “Hello Choctaw” and how it helped to maintain Choctaw sovereignty
- The Bingo Palace (and should Megan and Rachael start their own bingo hall?)
- The history of gaming in Choctaw nation
Yakoke, Megan for your expertise, and I’ll be gathering some materials in case you’d like to open that bingo hall with me!
Check out Choctaw Nation’s Biskinik paper online where you can find the Iti Fabvssa articles that feature Megan and other wonderful Choctaw Nation Writers at: https://www.choctawnation.com/biskinik-archives/
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Tuesday Apr 04, 2023
Tuesday Apr 04, 2023
I grew up in Hog Creek, which is approximately 5 mile west of Anadarko, Oklahoma. This is a virtually unknown historical place to the general public, but to the locals, it’s filled with Kiowa history. Among many of those in the area whose ancestors roamed these lands is a well-known, tight-knit and beloved family - the Wares.
In this episode, I had a casual visit with our family friend, Lance Ware (Kiowa) and we enjoyed discussing:
- His work as a wild land firefighter, working amongst several tribes
- Ware’s Chapel and cemetery
- How Lance is one of 11 children
- His experience with fancy dancing
- The singing and drumming of the Oh ho ma
- The Ware family today, and those we’ve lost
- Natives in Hollywood, including Leonard Nimoy who played a Chief (true story!)
- His dad, Lehman Ware’s archery skills and how he may or may not have practiced in the house
We also talked about the American Indian Expo, Anadarko, Oklahoma:
- 1950 video of the Expo in 1950 (Oklahoma Historical Society): https://tinyurl.com/3ens63k9
- I hear the Expo will take place on August 2-5, 2023. I’ll be there, will you? Be sure to follow the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/AmericianIndianExposition
- By the way, Lance was one of the mud men one year!
This time that Lance and I had together is an example of the preservation that can be done in any family - talking about growing up, the things that went on in the town, interesting and entertaining family stories, and so on. I encourage you to turn on your recorder sometime and capture these casual conversations with your family too!
In memory of: Lehman Keith Ware, February 1941-2017 and Carol Jean Ware, March 1941-2023
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Wednesday Mar 29, 2023
Wednesday Mar 29, 2023
Scalding hot rocks were placed in the center of the dirt floor. Water was poured onto the rocks, inviting a heavy steam that permeated throughout, increasing our heart rates, and causing a profuse sweat.
We came for a cleansing of our bodies, minds and souls, the rejuvenation of our spirits, and a deeper connection with our Creator. This was a Christian-based sweat, and we prayed about each other’s needs and requests throughout the evening. These were just of few of my experiences during the sweat lodge I joined at my guest, Weylin Thompson’s house a couple years back.
According to choctawschool.com, “…the sweat lodge has been known by several different Choctaw names including ‘anuka,’ meaning ‘the inside,’ and ‘alaksha,’ meaning ‘a place of sweating’. The process of using heat on the body itself is sometimes referred to as ‘shila,’ ‘to bake.’”
To know Weylin today, you’d never sense the pain he faced in the past, his eventual turn to substance abuse and his time in jail. I was grateful that Weylin shared how he turned his life around and is now helping others through sweat lodges and drum circle meetings. In this episode, you’ll hear his story, and about the history, spiritual significance, and healing of sweat lodges, and more.
If you’re ever near Madill, Oklahoma, Weylin and his wonderful wife, Sharon invite you to join them at their healing sweat lodge. You don’t have to be native to join them in Madill, which is near Fort Washita (near where our Choctaw ancestors came during the removal on the Trail of Tears). All are welcome!
Weylin shared some encouraging words of wisdom for us: “You can’t change the past, but you can change the path you’re on.”
If you’re struggling with addiction or are just looking for some encouragement, please don’t hesitate to reach out to @weylinthompson or send an email to thompsonweylin7@gmail.com.
By the way, Weylin’s wife, Sharon is who recently made my ribbon skirts, so feel free to reach out to her at @nativetouch if you’d like one too – she does great work!
Yakoke, Weylin and Sharon and may God bless you both.
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
Wednesday Mar 22, 2023
Wednesday Mar 22, 2023
In this 3rd and final part of this episode with my guest, Dodie Rogers (Choctaw), adopted daughter of the legendary “King of the Cowboys”, Roy Rogers (also Choctaw) and his talented wife, Dale Evans, you’ll hear about:
- Roy Rogers’ horse, Trigger who knew 150 tricks and starred in over 100 movies!
- What it was like to grow up with a large family and lots of animals on the Evans farm
- Those last precious moments with Roy and Dale before they passed away
- What’s next for the Rogers kids
Although Roy and Dale Rogers have passed on, Dodie and her siblings continue to share their memories and to create their own stories, carrying with them the joy, faith, and strength they were taught in their loving upbringing.
Yakoke, Dodie for inspiring us - blessings to you and your family!
Special thanks to the Anadarko Heritage Museum for providing some photos of Roy, Dale and Dodie Rogers and their visit to Anadarko!
Check Out:
Cheryl Rogers: https://www.cherylrogers.com/
Sons of the Pioneers: https://sonsofthepioneers.org/
Anadarko Indian Expo: https://www.facebook.com/AmericianIndianExposition
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
#dodierogers #choctawnationofoklahoma #royrogers #daleevansrogers #dalerogers #happytrailstoyou #anadarko #anadarkooklahoma #cityofanadarko #saveouranadarkoheritagemuseum #anadarkoheritagemuseum #adravance
#nativechoctalkpodcast #nativechoctalk #rachaelellenyoungman #rachaelyoungman #Choctaw #chahta #nativeamerican #AmericanIndian #nativepodcast
Wednesday Mar 22, 2023
Wednesday Mar 22, 2023
Have you ever heard the famous song, “Happy Trails to You”? Do you know who wrote and performed it?
In part one of this episode, we met the lovely Dodie Rogers (Choctaw), adopted daughter of the legendary “King of the Cowboys”, Roy Rogers (also Choctaw) and his talented wife, Dale Evans, who wrote the aforementioned song. Together they performed “Happy Trails to You” many times over. Even to this day, some of the younger generations are familiar with the piece – and thus the Rogers legend lives on.
Here in Part 2, Dodie continues to share the inspiring, yet heartbreaking story of the Rogers family – a family filled with love bursting at the seams, breaking social norms, changing perspectives on autism, and paving the way for future adoptive families.
You may need to grab your Kleenex box for this one, because as you’ll hear, this family faced one loss after another. And yet, their faith in God remained strong, while their family drew closer through every single challenge.
You’ll also hear about:
- Roy and Dale’s 9 children and their interesting stories
- The inspiring, yet humorous story about how Dodie was adopted
- The Chicki Wicki Choctaw song, written for Dodie by her mom (you’ll also get to hear the song)
- My own personal theory about why Dale started pushing Dodie to learn more about her heritage
Stay tuned for part 3 coming up next!
Special thanks to Anadarko Heritage Museum for pulling some photos of Roy, Dale and Dodie Rogers and their visit to Anadarko!
Check Out:
Cheryl Rogers: https://www.cherylrogers.com/
Sons of the Pioneers: https://sonsofthepioneers.org/
Anadarko Indian Expo: https://www.facebook.com/AmericianIndianExposition
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
#dodierogers #choctawnationofoklahoma #royrogers #daleevansrogers #dalerogers #happytrailstoyou #anadarko #anadarkooklahoma #cityofanadarko #saveouranadarkoheritagemuseum #anadarkoheritagemuseum #adravance
#nativechoctalkpodcast #nativechoctalk #rachaelellenyoungman #rachaelyoungman #Choctaw #chahta #nativeamerican #AmericanIndian #nativepodcast
Wednesday Mar 22, 2023
Wednesday Mar 22, 2023
Have you ever heard the famous song, “Happy Trails to You”? Do you know who wrote and performed it?
In part one of this episode, we met the lovely Dodie Rogers (Choctaw), adopted daughter of the legendary “King of the Cowboys”, Roy Rogers (also Choctaw) and his talented wife, Dale Evans, who wrote the aforementioned song. Together they performed “Happy Trails to You” many times over. Even to this day, some of the younger generations are familiar with the piece – and thus the Rogers legend lives on.
Here in Part 2, Dodie continues to share the inspiring, yet heartbreaking story of the Rogers family – a family filled with love bursting at the seams, breaking social norms, changing perspectives on autism, and paving the way for future adoptive families.
You may need to grab your Kleenex box for this one, because as you’ll hear, this family faced one loss after another. And yet, their faith in God remained strong, while their family drew closer through every single challenge.
You’ll also hear about:
- Roy and Dale’s 9 children and their interesting stories
- The inspiring, yet humorous story about how Dodie was adopted
- The Chicki Wicki Choctaw song, written for Dodie by her mom (you’ll also get to hear the song)
- My own personal theory about why Dale started pushing Dodie to learn more about her heritage
Stay tuned for part 3 coming up next!
Special thanks to Anadarko Heritage Museum for pulling some photos of Roy, Dale and Dodie Rogers and their visit to Anadarko!
Check Out:
Cheryl Rogers: https://www.cherylrogers.com/
Sons of the Pioneers: https://sonsofthepioneers.org/
Anadarko Indian Expo: https://www.facebook.com/AmericianIndianExposition
Native ChocTalk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nativechoctalkpodcast
All Podcast Episodes: https://nativechoctalk.com/podcasts/
#dodierogers #choctawnationofoklahoma #royrogers #daleevansrogers #dalerogers #happytrailstoyou #anadarko #anadarkooklahoma #cityofanadarko #saveouranadarkoheritagemuseum #anadarkoheritagemuseum #adravance
#nativechoctalkpodcast #nativechoctalk #rachaelellenyoungman #rachaelyoungman #Choctaw #chahta #nativeamerican #AmericanIndian #nativepodcast