In this episode, we sit down with Minneapolis-based actor, writer, and director Ajuawak Kapashesit. Ajuawak, who is Ojibwe, Cree, and Jewish, grew up in Ontario and on the White Earth Reservation. His acting credits include Indian Horse (2017), Once Upon a River (2019), Indian Road Trip (2020), Bad Blood (CityTV/Netflix), and Outlander (Starz/Sony). Ajuawak’s short …
Native Lights
Making Books Accessible: Talia Miracle and Little Free Library
In this episode, we’re joined by Talia Miracle, an enrolled member of the Ho-Chunk Tribe of Winnebago and Program Manager at the Little Free Library. She opens up about her impactful work leading the Indigenous Library Program, which increases access to Indigenous literature and fosters stronger, more inspired communities across the U.S. and Canada. Talia …
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From Lattes to Legacy: The Grand Opening of MiigWitches Brew
In this episode, we sit down with Jackson Ripley, a member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, enrolled at the Fort Berthold Reservation. Jackson shares the inspiring story behind MiigWitches Brew, a cozy gourmet coffee kiosk he recently opened with his wife. Operating from an 8×10 ft. building, MiigWitches Brew is more than just …
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Creating Representation: Nicholas DeShaw’s Path in Fiction and Storytelling
In this episode, we sit down with Nicholas Bimibatoo Mishtadim DeShaw, an Ojibwe author, father, and educator. Nicholas masterfully blends his Indigenous heritage with imaginative fiction across a wide range of genres, from sci-fi and horror to children’s picture books. He shares his journey as a writer, discussing his latest projects, including a new graphic …
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Stitch by Stitch: Janice LaFloe’s Journey of Indigenizing Montessori Education
In this episode, we speak with Janice LaFloe, a citizen of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa and Executive Director of the Montessori American Indian Childcare Center (MAICC) in St. Paul. Janice shares her remarkable journey from being a Montessori parent to establishing one of the largest Montessori centers dedicated to American Indian children. Her …
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Gatherings Café: Vernon DeFoe on Indigenous Dishes and Food Sovereignty
In this episode of Native Lights, we sit down with Vernon DeFoe, the Executive Chef at the Gatherings Café located inside the Minneapolis American Indian Center. Vernon, a proud Red Cliff Anishinaabe, has over 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry and is a passionate advocate for Indigenous food sovereignty. For the past decade, …
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Gold, Linoleum, and Fire: Inside the Mind of Gordon Coons
In this episode of Native Lights, we sit down with Gordon Coons, a talented painter, print maker and fumage artist who is an enrolled member of the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribe in northern Wisconsin. Gordon, who now resides in Minnesota, shares his inspiring journey of becoming an artist, detailing the pivotal moments throughout the eras …
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Art, Identity, and Alternate Worlds: A Conversation with Pono Asuncion
In today’s episode, we speak with Pono Asuncion, an interdisciplinary artist, storyteller, illustrator, and culture bearer. Drawing inspiration from childhood memories and ancestral roots, Pono’s art explores themes of alternate worlds, the extension of family lineage beyond this sphere, and the significance of recovering and honoring one’s history and identity. Pulling on inspiration from systemic …
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Empowering Educators: The Midwest Indigenous Immersion Network
In this episode, we welcome Gimiwan Dustin Burnette, the Executive Director of the Midwest Indigenous Immersion Network, a dynamic nonprofit organization, dedicated to enhancing collaboration and curriculum development among Ojibwe educators. Gimiwan discusses the critical work of the network, which enables Ojibwe language instructors and administrators to informally share resources, fostering a stronger and more …
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Beyond the Headlines: David Cournoyer on Authentic Storytelling
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with David Cournoyer, a seasoned journalist and communications expert with over three decades of experience. We delve into David’s remarkable career, starting from his early days as a local and TV journalist to his impactful work and nonprofit communications. David shares his inspiring journey from journalism to philanthropy, …
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Reflection and Roots: Leah & Cole’s Journey with Native Lights
This episode is a celebration of community, resilience, and the power of storytelling whether you’re a long time, listener or new to the series, tune in to get to know the voices behind native lights and be inspired by their dedication to making a difference. In this special episode, siblings and co-hosts Leah and Cole …
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Karen Diver: Championing Indigenous Excellence
Karen Diver is currently serving as the inaugural Senior Advisor to the President for Native American Affairs at the University of Minnesota. In addition to previous roles in higher education, Karen was also an appointee of President Obama as the Special Assistant to the President for Native American Affairs. As part of the Domestic Policy Council from …