Join Paul LaRoche as he embarks on a deeply personal journey to uncover his Native American roots and the transformative power of music. Hidden for years, his connection to the Lakota heritage was unveiled, leading to a family reunion and a cultural awakening.
In 1994 Paul became an enrolled member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of SD.  Returning to music after a 7 year hiatus Paul named his new group Brulé out of recognition of his new cultural heritage.  In this episode of Hidden Heritage, Paul shares the holiday music of his group Brulé, fusing traditional Native American melodies with modern influences. These heartfelt songs not only celebrate the holiday season but also emphasize themes of family, unity, and gratitude that transcend cultures.
Experience the enchanting Brulé Holiday Collection, a unique blend performed in various venues across the nation. Discover how the universal language of music bridges gaps and fosters peace, hope, and reconciliation among diverse communities.

Join Paul LaRoche in this Holiday Episode of Hidden Heritage called "The Lakota Star Quilt".  Travel back to December of 1993 when Paul and his family spent their first Christmas on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation.  They were gifted a beautiful Lakota Star Quilt that Holiday season but it took years before they understood the true significance of that special honoring.  
For the Lakota, the Star Quilt is far more than a blanket; it’s a gift embedded with love, respect, and blessings. It is often presented at significant life events—births, graduations, marriages, and even funerals. To receive a Star Quilt is to be wrapped in the warmth of the community and the protection of the ancestors.

Join Paul LaRoche as he recounts his emotional reunion with his Lakota heritage. Adopted at birth, Paul journeys from a small farming community to embracing his tribal roots on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. After discovering his adoption papers, he finds joy and connection with his newfound family, building bridges between his past and present.
This episode explores the unique experience of celebrating Christmas on an Indian reservation, highlighting cultural similarities and differences. Paul blends Native American sounds with classic Christmas melodies, creating a distinctive musical fusion that honors both traditions. Discover the story behind Brulé's popular holiday concerts and the making of their Christmas albums.

In this episode, Paul LaRoche shares a deeply personal journey from his adoption at birth, to discovering his true Lakota roots.
Raised unaware of his Native American heritage, Paul's life took a dramatic turn when his wife uncovered adoption papers, sparking a five-year journey to find his biological family. This episode goes into the complexities of identity, the power of family, and the remarkable reunion with his Lakota relatives on the Lower Brule Sioux Reservation. Follow Paul as he navigates a paradigm shift, embracing his new-found heritage while honoring the past, and ultimately connects with a world he never knew existed.

In this insightful episode of "Hidden Heritage," Paul LaRoche shares his personal journey of rediscovery and cultural connection, unfolding the seven fundamental virtues that define the Lakota people. Adopted at birth and raised in a different world, Paul's story is one of two worlds colliding — a testament to the resilience and grace of heritage. Through the wisdom of fortitude, respect, compassion, honesty, generosity, humility, and wisdom, we learn how these timeless values guide the Lakota towards a life of integrity, community, and respect.
As Paul goes into the spiritual significance of the Seven virtues, and the role these values play in the Lakota's connection with the world, he offers a profound reflection on living a life of balance and honor. This episode encourages us to consider these virtues in our own lives, to contribute to a more compassionate and connected world. Join Paul on "Hidden Heritage" for a transformative exploration of identity and timeless indigenous wisdom.

In this compelling episode of "Hidden Heritage," Paul LaRoche explores the sacred Lakota tradition of the Hembleciya, or Vision Quest, a powerful spiritual journey of self-discovery and communication with the Great Spirit. Paul explains the significance of this ancient ceremony, detailing its role in guiding individuals through life transitions and helping them find clarity and purpose.
Listeners are taken through the meticulous preparation process, including the creation of tobacco ties, and the transformative experience of spending days in solitude and fasting. Paul reflects on his own Vision Quest in 2008, sharing the profound insights he gained and how they shaped his life's mission to help younger generations find pride in their heritage.
This episode offers a deep understanding of the Hembleciya's enduring relevance in modern life, emphasizing the importance of respecting and preserving indigenous traditions. Join us in exploring the spiritual depth and cultural significance of this timeless ceremony.

Join Paul LaRoche in this compelling episode of "Hidden Heritage" as he shares his journey of discovering his true American Indian roots and the profound stories that emerge from it. Adopted at birth and raised away from his Native American heritage, Paul embarks on a quest that leads to a heartfelt reunion with his Lakota family.
This Veterans Day tribute pays special recognition to Native American veterans, who have served the United States with honor and distinction, despite historical and contemporary challenges. Native Americans have one of the highest rates of military service per capita among ethnic groups, driven by a deep sense of duty to protect their land and traditions.
The episode highlights the unique contributions of Native American Code Talkers during World Wars I and II, whose languages became unbreakable codes that were vital to Allied victories. It also sheds light on the ongoing struggles faced by Native veterans, including higher rates of homelessness and mental health challenges, and the efforts being made to honor their service.
As the episode unfolds, listeners are invited to reflect on the enduring warrior spirit that thrives within Native communities, and to appreciate the cultural significance of veterans in Native traditions. Paul LaRoche calls upon us to acknowledge and learn from the resilience, loyalty, and dedication of Native American veterans, encouraging a nation to unite in gratitude and respect.

Join us on a fascinating journey to Mitchell, South Dakota, as we explore the history of the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village. Situated on a six-acre site overlooking Lake Mitchell, this archaeological site offers a glimpse into life over a thousand years ago.
Discover how this community of a few hundred people thrived by cultivating familiar crops like corn, squash, and beans, alongside less common plants. Learn about their hunting practices, which included bison, deer, and elk, and how they utilized dogs as beasts of burden. Explore the rich trade networks that connected them with distant regions, bringing valuable resources and knowledge to their village.
Gain insights into the unique architectural styles of their earth lodges, designed to withstand the harsh climate of the Northern Plains. Uncover the intricate story told by the artifacts found at the site, revealing the social and technological advancements of these early inhabitants.
Through interviews and expert analysis, this episode sheds light on the adaptation and resilience of this prehistoric community, highlighting the importance of preserving and understanding our shared human heritage.