Hidden Heritage
Hidden Heritage presents positive and uplifting stories from across Native America. The episodes are hosted by Paul LaRoche, founder of the award winning contemporary American Indian Group Brulé. Interviews include inspiring individuals, successful entrepreneurs, Native artists and musicians. LaRoche is an enrolled member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of SD.
Episodes
Episodes
5 days ago
5 days ago
This week on "Hidden Heritage", host Paul LaRoche shines a light on the harmonious relationship between wildlife management and hunting on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation located on the great northern plains of rural America. Home to an outstanding wildlife management program, the reservation is rich in diverse habitat including river breaks, rolling prairies, and agricultural land, creating an environment conducive to the thriving wildlife population.
The episode takes a close look at the activities overseen by the program, from monitoring game species and stocking dams for fishing to creating access to the Missouri River and increasing hunting opportunities. LaRoche provides insights into the holistic approach to hunting, thereby painting a picture of a vibrant ecosystem that is meticulously monitored and managed.
There is a deep-seated respect for animals that is ingrained in the Lakota, going as far back as the teachings of the great chiefs who emphasized observing and learning from the animals. That respect continues to prevail to this day, ensuring that hunting is practiced responsibly with deep personal connections between hunters and the program's personnel. The reservations boast of a vast variety of wildlife, including big game species like bison, elk, mule deer, and white–tailed deer.
LaRoche takes the listeners on an immersive journey through the beautiful landscapes of the Lower Brule Reservation in South Dakota and outlines his experiences of various hunting expeditions. Join him as he celebrates the traditional hunting techniques and observes the bonds and respect for animals, all culminating in a grand hunting expedition in northern Manitoba.
"Hidden Heritage" thus takes us not just on a journey through the breathtaking outdoors, but also uncovers the deep spiritual and respectful relationship with nature, emphasizing a centered balance that anything that befalls the earth also befalls the children of the earth.
Friday May 03, 2024
The Brule Chronicles - From Adoption to Native American Musical Triumph
Friday May 03, 2024
Friday May 03, 2024
This episode of The Brulé Chronicles unravels an extraordinary personal journey. Host Paul LaRoche recounts his life story, beginning with his adoption from birth as a Native American child and how he discovered his true heritage after his adoptive parents' death - a revelation that helped him reconnect with his biological family and Native American roots.
In 1993, a heartwarming reunion with his biological Lakota family embarked him and his wife, Kathy, on an incredible journey into the heart of Native America - a journey that ultimately led to the birth of the popular Native American music group, Brulé.
Despite initial setbacks, Brulé’s unique blend of traditional tribal music and classical rock carved a niche for them in the music industry, stirring waves beyond their Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation home in South Dakota to nation-wide recognition.
The episode titled "Tribe" encapsulates the story of an exciting musical project three years after the start of Brulé in 1998. Balancing the pressures of recording new music albums and staging performances at small events, Paul received a surprising offer that promised a significant leap in his career: a role as a music composer for a new musical project.
Brulé’s adventurous journey to create the Broadway-style musical, 'Tribe,' faced obstacles from skeptics and critics alike. Yet, their undaunted spirit fueled their mission to create a performance that encompassed the experiences and culture of Native America.
In a touching interview with Minnesota Public Radio in 1998, Paul spoke about the challenges and rewards of bringing native traditions and contemporary music together, while keenly aware of the fine balance needed to respect his heritage.
This episode brings to light the burgeoning potential of Native people in the entertainment industry, a stepping stone to inspire young people to explore the performing arts. From humble beginnings, through trials and tribulations, the story of Brulé is one of resilience, reconciliation, and triumph.
Join us on this enriching journey that transcends music and heritage. Discover the story that unites us all through the transformative power of music and shared human experiences.
Wednesday May 01, 2024
How This Lakota Ceremony Transformed My Life - The Giveaway
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Immerse yourself in a transformative tale of a Native American adoptee who embarks on a journey of self-discovery upon reunification with his birth family — the Lakota Tribe. Learn about his touching experiences, the profound lessons he acquires from the Lakota culture, and the life-altering impact of the giveaway ceremony.
Travel back to 1993 when he, unaware of his roots, discovered the truth about his birth and was reunited with his biological family after countless years. From that moment ensued a captivating journey into the heart of Native America. Let us guide you through memorial ceremonies, powwows, and an intimate look into the Lakota Giveaway Ceremony, a practice deeply imbedded with the values of generosity, community, and interconnectedness.
This podcast episode recounts the journey of exploration into a cultural tradition that emphasizes living "in a good way" or "walking the red road", fostering a sense of community, and embodying the cycle of giving and receiving. This pathway leads to lessons of detachment, kindness, and the joy found in the humility of receiving — virtue lessons that glaringly contrast our heavily commercialized world.
This episode serves as a personal reflection on the transformative power of generosity in building strong, resilient communities, redefining wealth, and rethinking what it means to 'profit' in life. It showcases the profound spiritual implications of the Lakota giveaway tradition and shares a contemplation on its timeless wisdom that challenges the contemporary narratives of scarcity and competition.
Join us on this enlightening journey into the heart of Native America and its enduring traditions. Experience the power of storytelling as it unfolds the deep-rooted cultural essence of the Lakota tribe and redefines your perception of life and purpose through the eyes of a rediscovered son.
Sunday Apr 28, 2024
Brulé Interview: Growing up in Worthington, Part 2
Sunday Apr 28, 2024
Sunday Apr 28, 2024
In this episode, we invite you to journey with us through the transformational life stories, musical reminiscences, and entrepreneurial endeavors of our guests. We present a fascinating look into the life of Paul Summers LaRoche and the beautiful blend of dual heritage influencing his music career. Joining him are Tom Gilmore and Bill Keitel, his former bandmates, who take us back to their vibrant hometown music scene in southwest Minnesota in the late '60s and '70s.
Guest Bill Keitel also provides an insight into his journey with the Buffalo Billfold Company, which went from a small leather shop to a renowned brand known for its high-quality buffalo hide products, gaining recognition in prestigious locations such as Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and the Smithsonian. The conversation also picks on the artisanal craft of making exclusive signed flight bags.
Digging deeper, the episode shifts focus to an enlightening discussion on diverse Native American cultures, unique dialects, traditional music, and rituals. In particular, it explores the significance of eagle feathers gifted to young tribal members acknowledging their life accomplishments. The conversation also dwells on the importance of regalia, an integral part of Native American attire representing personal identity and life achievements.
This episode of Hidden Heritage podcast promises an exciting exploration into the past, unraveling misconceptions and celebrating the richness of Native American culture. Be prepared to delve into the captivating stories of Paul's early years and rich American Indian Heritage
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Unmasking Extraordinary Stories on Hidden Heritage
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
In this captivating episode of Hidden Heritage, embark on a striking voyage into the core of Native America. Beginning with a moving account of a Native American child separated at birth and ultimately reunited with his biological Lakota family, the narrative transitions into an inspirational exploration of Native roots.
We then turn our attention to Denver, Colorado, meeting a pair of resilient American Indian entrepreneurs who are altering perceptions through their prospering business, Caddo Solutions. Learn about this remarkable company, steered by tribal members from Oklahoma and Nebraska, tirelessly competing with large corporations while succeeding in the world of office supplies and commercial furniture nationally.
Prepare to dive into the heartwarming story behind Caddo Solutions. Discover their strategic evolution amidst industry consolidation, their commendable customer-centric approach, robust e-commerce strategy, and unwavering dedication to quality service. Their tale of success illuminates the potential and necessity for national attention towards the triumphs of America Indians.
Moreover, experience an intimate look at the lives and values of these entrepreneurs. Understand the significant impact of their athletic and corporate backgrounds, their passion, persistence, extraordinary employee loyalty, and how cultural ties fuel the growth of their business.
Delve into the challenges and victories of American Indian entrepreneurs as they pursue and achieve their ambitions, despite countless adversities. With engaging stories, expert discussions, and emotional memoirs, experience this journey of resilience, passion, and victorious triumph on Hidden Heritage.
Monday Apr 22, 2024
An American Journey of Discovery - The Seminole Nation
Monday Apr 22, 2024
Monday Apr 22, 2024
In this introspective episode, Paul LaRoche embarks on a personal and historical journey, uncovering his hidden heritage and documenting his relationship with two different worlds.
Armed with an insatiable curiosity and thirst for knowledge, our host delves into the intricacies of the Seminole Tribe. On an illuminating tour of the Brighton Indian Reservation in Florida, led by Willie Johns, a tribal historian and member, they explore the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, the distinct tribal government and clan system, and the tribe's proud history of resilience against multiple wars with the United States. Through these stories, Paul shares a narrative of the Seminole people, their adaptation strategies, survival mechanisms, and the impressive evolution in preserving their rich culture and tradition against the backdrops of Florida's development.
Revealing the tribulations and breakthroughs of the Seminole Tribe, the episode transitions from the historical to the modern-day successes and challenges the tribe faces. The account captures the tribe's significant milestones, from establishing their own educational system and obtaining financial independence through business ventures like B-I-N-G-O and Hard Rock International and their thriving cattle industry. This episode is a celebration of the Seminole Tribe's spirit and their innate adaptability for their cultural heritage.
A fascinating blend of personal history and the account of a Native American tribe, this episode promises a seamless blend of personal anecdotes, revelations, and hidden treasures of Native American history.
Friday Apr 19, 2024
The Pilgrimage to Black Elk Mountain
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Friday Apr 19, 2024
In this episode, we take an unforgettable journey into Native America, revealing one man's quest to reconnect with his Lakota roots. Raised as an adopted child far from the reservation he was born into, our host shares the powerful story of how he discovered his true origins and embarked on a path of self-discovery.On a special Thanksgiving Day in 1993, fate reunited him with his biological family, setting off a profound exploration of his indigenous heritage. This soul-stirring story takes us from the bustling interstate to the tranquil prairies, highlighting the stark contrast between the modern world and the untouched beauty of the past.Join us as we embark on a cross-state journey to Black Elk Mountain, the highest point in South Dakota. Rich with history and spiritual significance to the Lakota, this majestic site stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Native American heritage. From beating beetle epidemic affecting the pine trees to the majestic view at the summit, the voyage captures a snippet of the challenges and splendors of the natural world.Discover the awe-inspiring tale of Black Elk, a respected Lakota spiritual leader, who sought answers through his vision quest on this very mountain. Learn about his prophetic vision, as marked in the book 'Black Elk Speaks', a revered tome among the Lakota.Immerse yourself in the captivating experience our host and his friends share as they reach the summit, a site now known as a national park. Tune in for an experience of a lifetime – a journey filled with rich cultural insights, untold historical narratives, and the unfiltered beauty of Black Elk Mountain.
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Tribal Education in the U.S. Today
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Monday Apr 15, 2024
In this enlightening episode of "Hidden Heritage", follow along as we visit Mission, South Dakota on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation home to Sinte Gliska Tribal University, a unique educational institution that stands as a beacon of tribal education in the nation today.
Founded in 1970 and named after Brule Lakota Chief Sinte Gliska, the university struggled for six years to be recognized by legislation before finally becoming accredited under the leadership of the late Dr. Lionel Bordeaux. Bordeaux shares his story, of resilience, determination and his vision for the continued growth and success of the young native students under his guidance whilst upholding the integrity of their culture.
Get an insider’s view into the distinctive education approach at Sinte Gliska Tribal University as we converse with former student Gabrielle Iron Shell and dedicated educator and Lakota Elder, the late Albert White Sr. Hear their personal stories, their passion for preserving their culture and language, and their aspirations for the future. Feel the cultural vibrancy through songs, dance, ceremonies and traditional storytelling.
The unique ways teachers integrated the culture into the learning process, offering a natural blend of curricula emphasizing historical truth, language preservation, economic growth initiatives and tribal government reform. Discover the commitment to these concepts and the mission to empower learners while preserving the precious Lakota virtues and values for the next generations.
This episode offers a fascinating insight into the resilience and passion burning within the native community and the institutions that support them.
The Hidden Heritage Series
The Hidden Heritage show was originally produced for the cable TV network RFD-TV. The show host, Paul LaRoche, is the producer of Hidden Heritage and the founder of the contemporary Native American music and dance group Brulé. The TV show was a spin-off of behind the scenes camera footage collected by LaRoche throughout Brulé's concert tours over their 30 year soulful journey. Along with the people and places that made up the tour, much of Brulé's award-winning music and stunning concert footage is featured in the series as well. So wether you're interested in the Native American culture, a fan of Brulé or just discovering the series for the first time, you'll enjoy Hidden Heritage. Over 100 episodes of Hidden Heritage were produced and will be presented in this podcast.