Today, we’re excited to welcome Chris James, President and CEO of the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development. Chris has played a key role in boosting economic opportunities for Native communities. He’s here to discuss the upcoming Reservation Economic Summit (RES) 2025, taking place on March 10th at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. RES is the top event for Indigenous businesses, offering valuable resources and networking. Tune in for a conversation on the future of Native enterprise and empowerment!

Biography

Chris James is President and CEO of the country’s foremost and oldest Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian business and economic development-focused organization, The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development. Since 1969, The National Center has served as an important connector between corporate America and Native-owned businesses seeking to enter their supply chains and provides invaluable training and educational resources for businesses and entrepreneurs. Since Chris joined the organization in 2017, The National Center has more than doubled its annual revenue, expanded its national footprint and programming, and boosted its staff.

In addition to growing the annual Reservation Economic Summit (RES), Chris guided the development of the Native Edge Institute series, one-day training sessions designed to give both established and emerging entrepreneurs the tools they need to take their next step. In addition, The National Center has an increased focus on international trade, including the formation of the Arizona MBDA Export Center. The National Center has also created public-facing platforms in NC Magazine and the Native Edge podcast.

As a former senior official in Department of Treasury and Small Business Administration for the entirety the Obama administration, Chris has unique expertise in government contracting, supply chains, underserved markets, community development financial institutions and access to capital, and issues affecting small business issues.

Chris serves on numerous boards and leadership committees, including with the SBA, Federal Communications Commission, United States Trade Representative, Export-Import Bank of the United States, World Trade Organization, the Center for Indian Country Development at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, Junior Achievement USA, and First Peoples Worldwide. He is a frequently requested speaker, panelist, moderator, and guest for a wide variety of conferences, events, and organizations. He has testified on Native American and Alaska Native policy before Congress.

James has first-hand knowledge and experience in Native-owned enterprises; his family owned several businesses on the Qualla Boundary in western North Carolina – the reservation for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. His first job after college was with the tribe’s Community Development Financial Institution, the Sequoyah Fund.

ABOUT JOLEEN BROWNABOUT NATIVE HOOP MAGAZINE

“Joining us this week on Indigenous in the News is Joleen Brown, the visionary President of Native Hoop Magazine. Since its inception, Native Hoop has been a powerful platform dedicated to amplifying Indigenous voices, celebrating cultural diversity, and preserving traditions across Turtle Island. With a passion for storytelling and advocacy, Joleen has made it her mission to shine a light on the strength and beauty of Indigenous communities. We’re honored to have her here to share her journey and the incredible work she’s doing to uplift Native voices.”

Joleen Brown, a stalwart advocate for indigenous communities, joined Native Hoop in 2012 as a graphic designer before ascending to the presidency in 2018. Recognizing the importance of upholding integrity and transparency, she transitioned the organization to a non-profit model, ensuring its mission was rooted in community service rather than profit. Under her leadership, Native Hoop has become a beacon of exclusivity, welcoming individuals from all tribal backgrounds across Turtle Island. Joleen’s tireless commitment to collaboration and cultural preservation has solidified Native Hoop’s platform for amplifying marginalized voices and empowering indigenous peoples worldwide, showcasing her dedication to fostering a more equitable and just society.

Native Hoop, a 501c3 Non-Profit organization, was founded in 2009 and officially established as a non-profit entity in 2018, initially operating uner the auspices of the Native American Cultural Association of Oregon. As of 2024, we have proudly transitioned into an independent non-profit based in South Dakota.

Our decision to embark on this independent journey stems from our aspiration to expand our scope beyond the boundaries of Native Hoop Magazine. Listening to the voices of our community, we are committed to diversifying our initiatives to address the evolving needs we have identified.

Native Hoop is diligently striving to broaden its horizons and cultivate additional opportunities. We encourage you to stay tuned and revisit our website regularly, where we will unveil our latest programs and initiatives. Your continued support fuels our commitment to innovation and growth. Thank you for joining us on this journey of progress and empowerment.

At our essence, we are committed to showcasing our people in a positive and uplifting manner. Native Hoop Magazine remains steadfast as the cornerstone of our efforts to support and celebrate the rich diversity of the Native/First Nations community. We are unwavering in our dedication to excellence, ensuring that the magazine continues to thrive and evolve, always striving to be the very best it can be. Rest assured, Native Hoop Magazine will forever remain an integral part of Native Hoop’s identity and mission.

In a world where mainstream representation often falls short, we strive to fill the void by showcasing every facet of Native American/First Nations culture with reverence for tradition and ceremony, while maintaining the integrity of our heritage.

Native Hoop Magazine transcends thematic limitations. Our overarching objective is to embrace and celebrate the rich tapestry of tribes across the United States and Canada. Recognizing the intrinsic diversity among tribes, we champion inclusivity, firmly believing that every tribe deserves a voice. By uniting all tribes, we amplify our collective strength and highlight the unique traditions, beliefs, and customs that define each community.

With a global audience, we aim to underscore the resilience and greatness of Indigenous peoples, affirming our presence and fortitude.

At its essence, Native Hoop embodies unity and resilience, serving as a beacon of strength and solidarity for Indigenous communities on Turtle Island.

ABOUT JOLEEN BROWNABOUT NATIVE HOOP MAGAZINE

Welcome to Indigenous in the News, joining us today is Shannon O’locklin, a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and the Chief Executive for the Association on American Indian Affairs. With decades of experience in tribal law, Shannon leads the nation’s oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting sovereignty, preserving culture, and advancing the rights of Indigenous communities. Today will hear about the history and programs they provide. And their 10th Annual Repatriation Conference: Igniting Change February 15th, find out all about them on the web at indian-affairs.org

BIOGRAPHY

Shannon O’Loughlin, Chief Executive and Attorney for the Association on American Indian Affairs, is a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Shannon has been practicing law for more than 23 years and is a lecturer at Johns Hopkins University. Shannon serves as Vice Chair of the Board at Native Ways Federation, which educates about informed giving to Native-led nonprofits. She also serves on the Board of Potawatomi Ventures, the economic development corporation of the Forest County Potawatomi Nation, and serves as their Governance Committe Chair. She is a former Chief of Staff to the National Indian Gaming Commission, where she assisted in the development and implementation of national gaming policy, and oversaw the agency’s public affairs, technology, compliance and finance divisions.

Shannon has also served Native Country in the private sector as an attorney, leading a large national firm’s Native Nations law practice group that worked to strengthen, maintain and protect sovereignty, self-determination and culture. Shannon was appointed by Secretary of the Department of the Interior, Sally Jewell to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act Review Committee in 2013 and was appointed by President Barack Obama as the first Native American to the Cultural Property Advisory Committee within the State Department in 2015; she was fired by President Trump in 2019. Shannon received a B.A. in American Indian Studies from California State University, Long Beach and joint M.A. and J.D. degrees from the University of Arizona in Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy.

Welcome to Indigenous in the News, on today’s show, we’re thrilled to welcome Dallas Arcand, joining us from Edmonton, Alberta. Dallas is a three-time World Champion Hoop Dancer, teacher, and mentor who’s dedicated to inspiring others through his artistry and knowledge. Today, we’ll dive into his incredible journey, explore his many achievements, and hear all about the upcoming release of his new book this summer, 13 Hoops: Life’s Lessons Lived and Learned. Read all about him at our place www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/ln-the-news/dallas-arcand

Biography:

An Indigenous Entertainer from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Also a registered member of the Alexander First Nation, Alberta. His passion for Arts and culture have always been prominent in his upbringing, empowering him to become a three-time World Champion Hoop Dancer. Throughout his 30+ year career of performing, Arcand’s singing, dancing and traditional flute skills have earned him numerous accolades. Dallas is a graduate of the Mount Royal University transfer program majoring in behavioral sciences and Indigenous history. He also is a graduate of the National Indigenous Professional Artist (NIPAT) program, and since 2020 has been an instructor at the NIPAT program teaching and mentoring Indigenous artists. In early 2020 when the pandemic hit, on his Facebook page Dallas started a free online fitness class and program called ‘Powwow Dance Aerobics’ PWDA.

Dallas has helped so many isolated people from around the world and have posted several comments and shared their stories on how PWDA has helped them through COVID. Recently Arcand performed in Frankfurt, Germany at the ‘Frankfurter Buchmesse’ the international book fair in which Canada was the honored guest along with the Governor General, Ministers, and Ambassadors. He was a special invited performer there to represent indigenous arts and culture with his many performances. Shortly after his return to Canada Arcand was invited to the Calgary roughneck game to perform at their half time show in the Saddledome.

Dallas’s International career on the World stage began in 2002 with Universal Studios Mediterrainea where he performed his song and dance for 8 months in Spain. Dallas was featured in the Calgary Stampede for 20 years landing him 8 star appearances in the evening Grandstand show, and on the main stage of the daily Rodeo.

In 2007, Dallas was awarded 1st prize at the Annual World Championship Hoop Dancing Competition. In 2008, he was awarded the Alberta Aboriginal Role Model Award for Performing Arts. Again in 2008, Dallas regained his World Championship Hoop Dance title. In 2009, Arcand toured extensively across Canada with the gold medal plates tour and the Spirit Train tour and in 2017 with the Canada 150 train tour in 13 cities across Canada.

In 2010, Dallas was featured in the opening ceremonies of the Vancouver Olympics, as well in London at the 2012 Olympics performing with his son Dallas Jr. for Canada at Trafalgar Square.

After a four year hiatus from competing at the Hoop Dance contest, Dallas returned and earned his third World Championship title in 2012. Also in 2012, he was featured on the nationally televised talent show Canada’s Got Talent on City TV. In 2013, TED X – YYC featured Arcand at the southern Jubilee auditorium for a Ted talk performance and speech called ‘Living a Circular Life’. In 2014, he was awarded 1 st prize at the Manitoahbee Pow-wow Hoop Dance contest. After that successful year, Arcand was awarded a media arts grant from Canada Council to produce his first documentary on his Hoop Dancing and performing career. In early 2018 Arcand released a documentary film called ‘Hoop Life’ showcasing and sharing his story, the history, and art of hoop dancing.

Welcome to Indigenous in the News with Larry K and Gary Wilcox. On today's show, we’re honored to bring you one of the last interviews recorded with the late Tom Bee this past summer. It was a privilege to have him on the show and learn about his remarkable journey—from founding the Native band XIT, to initially managing the band before stepping into the role of lead singer. XIT made history as the first Native American band to sign with a major record label, and Tom’s extraordinary career later earned him two Grammy Awards. Tom’s life spanned 82 remarkable years, during which he touched the hearts of many with his kindness, wisdom, and love. A man of many talents and passions, he approached everything with a tireless work ethic and an unwavering dedication to excellence.

Tom was born on November 8, 1941, in Gallup, New Mexico, and who passed away on July 25, 2024, in Albuquerque, was a true legend. It was an honor to have him as a guest on my music show, Indigenous in Music, this past June. I’m grateful to share our interview with all of you.

Some of his numerous achievements include:
1) Winning two Grammy Awards.
2) Writing the song "(We've Got) Blue Skies" recorded by Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 which appeared on the worldwide hit album "Maybe tomorrow."
3) Co-producing and writing the song "Joyful Jukebox Music" for the Jackson 5.
4) Singing and writing the backing vocals for the song "Just My Soul Responding" for Smokey Robinson on his first solo album "Smokey."
5) Obtaining a writer, artist, and producer contract with Motown records which led to the internationally acclaimed albums "Plight of the Redman" and Silent Warrior" by Xit.
6) Writing the song "Red Hot," recorded by Taka Boom (sister of Chaka Khan) a top Billboard Disco Dance Chart hit.
7) Writing the song "Don't Be Two Faced," recorded by the top selling rockabilly artist Shakin' Stevens for his highly successful album "the Bop Won't Stop."
8) Working with legendary Producer Gary S. Paxton (Alley Oop by the Hollywood Argyles, Monster Mash by Bobby Boris Pickett, and Cherish by the Association).
9) Receiving the "Eagle Spirit Award" from the America Film Institute in San Francisco.
10) Receiving the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the First Americans in the Arts in Beverly Hills.
11) Receiving the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from Four Directions Entertainment in New York.
12) Being the recipient of the "Will Sampson Award" from the First Americans in the Arts.
13) Winning the "Producer of the Year Award" at the First Annual "Native American Music Awards" (NAMMY's).
14) Receiving of the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the "Native American Music Awards" (NAMMY's).
15) Having July 27, 2002 being proclaimed "Tom Bee Day" by Mayor Martin Chavez in recognition of Tom's accomplishments within the music industry as a recording artist, songwriter, record producer and multi-award winner.
16) Persuading NARAS to recognize the musical contributions of Native Americans by establishing a Native America category at the Grammy Awards.
17) Being CEO and founder of SOAR (Sound of America Records)
As we say goodbye to Tom, we take comfort in the memories he shared with us. He will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire us.

Welcome to Indgenous in the News, on todays show we’re excited to welcome Mr. Aku RoDriguez from the Mescalero Apache Nation. Aku is a talented producer, and entrepreneur. We’ll dive into his journey and how it all started and his latest projects, and explore what it takes to master aerial photography and videography from air, land, and sea. His company, MRoD Drones, specializes in delivering stunning visuals from every angle. You can visit him at www.sobeitfilms.com and contact him directly at sobiitfilms@gmail.com

BIOGRAPHY

• Their Last Ride (Official Trailer)
• Lipan Apache Cemetery in Presidio TX
• National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum
• Buffalo Soldiers of West Texas
• Dances with Sacred Ground (Official Trailer)
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Being of Native American and Zapotec heritage RoDriguez was taught and inspired by the traditions of his culture. While in film school at T.C.C. North East College, he started his career working as a production assistant and line-producer for commercials and independent film companies, where he learned the intricacies of feature film production from some of the most skilled and talented technicians in the industry.

It is also here where RoDriguez began working as a actor and Producer for commercials and independent films. He then went on to acting on indie film, “The Prodigy.” in 2005, “Walker Texas Ranger” TV series in 2006 and indie film “Black Nile” in 2006, where he was casted in indie film, “The Blue Jay.” 2007.

Join us every week from Two Buffalo Studios in Bradenton, Florida, as we bring you the latest updates on issues that matter to us all, from the Shakers to the Makers across Indian Country. Hosted by Larry K. from the Ho-Chunk Nation and his co-host Gary Wilcox from the Powatan Nation. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Reach out to me at larry@indigenousinmusic.com or visit www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/indigenous-in-the-news for all the details. If you have a story and would like to share it, contact us.

Welcome to Indigenous in the News. On todays show we welcome from the Pawnee Tribe, Mr. Lil Mike and Mr. Funny Bone. Together they form the Native Rapping Duo. They are Singers, actors and entrepreneurs. Today we get a chance to meet them and hear all about their journey and what it took to get there. They stay real busy, they had roles on the FX Series “Reservation Dogs.” And they’ll talk about their new album “Vibin.” You can find all all about them on the web at www.mikebonemedia.com. This and more along with National Native News and Antonia Gonazles.

Emmy nominated duo LiL Mike & Funny Bone are multi-award winning Native American Recording Artists/Actors as seen on Reservation Dogs, America's Got Talent & more! Their newest album "VIBIN" has been released to the world on all streaming platforms. Together they're known as "MIKE BONE" Indigenous HipHop duo born & raised in Oklahoma City, from the Pawnee & Choctaw Nation. MIKE & BONE are considered to be legends in the game with 27+ years under their belt.

Using positive lyrics & not following the typical rap scene, as one of their songs says, it's "More Than Music". Offered multiple record deals they've chosen to stay independent to maintain their integrity, which is expressed in their song "Hold Me Back". They've devoted their lives to entertaining & inspiring, performing at venues of all kinds, from Arena's, to Public Schools & everything in-between.

Raised by a single mother of 5 kids their hustle has brought them from hood famous to global stardom, climbing the charts & making a difference. Even when opening for other artists they steal the show everywhere they go. More than just recording artists, MIKE BONE also does speaking engagements on all kinds of topics from bullying, drug & alcohol prevention, to following your dreams, with a splash of comedy when needed.Get Streaming Links, Free Downloads, Merch & More at: MikeBoneMedia.comYou can learn their story in the award winning documentary "Looked Over but Never Overlooked" on youtube. With tons of content on youtube their channel includes behind-the-scenes footage, music videos, TV interviews & more. You just might become a subscriber to see what pops up next. From homelessness, to gang violence & discrimination, they've maintained their faith in GOD & have become performance icons.

We’re excited to announce the launch of our new News and Entertainment podcast, Indigenous in the News. Join us every week from Two Buffalo Studios in Bradenton, Florida, as we bring you the latest updates on issues that matter to us all, from the Shakers to the Makers across Indian Country. Hosted by Larry K. from the Ho-Chunk Nation and his co-host Gary Wilcox from the Powatan Nation. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Reach out to me at larry@indigenousinmusic.com or visit www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/indigenous-in-the-news for all the details. If you have a story and would like to share it, contact us.