In this episode of Hidden Heritage, host Paul LaRoche examines the significance of Native American Day, observed on October 14th this year. Paul explores the day as a moment for reflection on America's history and the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities. The episode looks at both the positive impacts and criticisms of Native American Day, highlighting its role in promoting accurate historical understanding and cross-cultural dialogue.
Through an insightful discussion, Paul addresses how Native American Day serves as a platform for visibility and advocacy, shedding light on crucial issues like land rights, healthcare, and education. He also shares personal reflections on the internal conflict experienced as someone of mixed heritage, and the broader societal challenges of recognizing this day across the United States.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with Native American Day as an opportunity to learn, reflect, and participate in meaningful conversations about the history and culture of indigenous peoples. Join Paul in this thought-provoking exploration of Native American Day, and its potential to foster greater understanding and reconciliation.

In this captivating episode of "Hidden Heritage," journey with the St. Cyr family from the Winnebago tribe of NE as they navigate the harmonious balance between traditional and contemporary Native American life. Reunited with his biological Lakota family in 1993, the host shares an inspiring tale of cultural reconnection and musical legacy.
Meet the late Curtis St. Cyr, a soulful gospel singer and legendary blues harmonica player, who was a pivotal figure in his community and family. Discover how Curtis's passion for music and dedication to his heritage influenced his children, who continue to perform and share their rich cultural traditions with audiences worldwide.
Through interviews and stories, learn about the Many Moccasins dance troupe and the enduring impact of Curtis's music on the Winnebago tribe. Celebrate the power of music and family in this heartwarming tribute to a remarkable cultural journey.

Welcome to another episode of Hidden Heritage with your host, Paul LaRoche. In this heartfelt installment, Paul shares the inspiring story of his journey to rediscover his Lakota roots and introduces us to the remarkable legacy of musician Lou Webster.
Born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and raised on the Menominee Reservation, Lou Webster grew up in a family rich in musical tradition. His passion for the Native American wood courting flute, discovered during his studies at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, became a lifelong love. Although not widely recognized during his lifetime, Lou's music has since gained appreciation for its poignant storytelling and activism.
Paul recalls his own personal connection with Lou during their time working on a theater project in Minneapolis. Lou's powerful songs, often themed around Native American activism and history, left a lasting impression on Paul, highlighting Lou's talent as a singer-songwriter.
Join us as Paul pays tribute to Lou Webster, sharing his music and stories that continue to resonate with audiences. Discover the power of music, heritage, and friendship in this touching episode of Hidden Heritage.

Travel with host Paul LaRoche to the vibrant Texas Indian Market in Arlington, where art and culture collide. Meet talented Native American artists like Ernie Apodaca, Van Martin, and Joseph BeGay, who share their inspiring stories and showcase their remarkable art forms. From intricate silverwork and pottery shard replicas to functional art and leather goods, experience the rich tapestry of creativity and tradition.
Explore the diverse backgrounds and artistic journeys of individuals like Gil Birmingham, Arvill Bird, and Bill Keitel, who bring their unique perspectives to the forefront. Discover the power of embracing one's heritage and the profound impact it has on personal identity and artistic expression.
Listen in as Paul LaRoche and his guests share their stories, their art, and their passion for celebrating Native American culture. Tune in to "Hidden Heritage" for an enlightening and heartwarming episode that bridges the past and present.

Join Paul LaRoche in this compelling episode of "Hidden Heritage" as he explores the significance of sacred sites, focusing on the Pipestone National Monument in Minnesota. Discover the rich history and cultural importance of the red stone used in the sacred ceremonial Native American pipe, Chanupa in Lakota, a symbol of unity and peace among tribes.
Meet Travis Erickson, a dedicated quarry worker, who reveals the challenging process of extracting the precious Pipestone. Learn the legends and stories associated with this sacred place, including the tale of "Stone Face" and the enduring legacy of the Yankton Sioux chief, Strikes the Reed.
This episode offers a profound look into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Native American sacred sites, inviting viewers to appreciate the deep connections between the land, its people, and their stories.

Welcome to Hidden Heritage, where we share the untold stories and rich cultural traditions of Native America. In this episode we're going to talk about a topic close to my heart, my own tribe, the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of South Dakota. The story of the Lower Brule Tribe is one of resilience, connection to the land, and cultural preservation. In this episode, I want to take you on a journey through the history, traditions, and modern-day life of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, a people who have held on to their identity and strength despite the many challenges they've faced.
From the origins of their name to the impact of the Missouri River dams, we explore the tribe's deep connection to their land and traditions. We'll also discuss the tribe's notable figures, cultural practices, and efforts in economic development, including agriculture, tourism, and the Golden Buffalo Casino.
Join me as we uncover the resilience and hope of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, a community dedicated to preserving their heritage while looking towards a brighter future. Through their perseverance, they continue to inspire and lead, holding on to their traditions while adapting to a changing world.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through the history and heart of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of South Dakota. I encourage you to explore more about Native American culture and history, and remember that every tribe, like every family, has its own unique story to tell. Until next time, I'm Paul LaRoche, and this is Hidden Heritage.

Occasionally, an event occurs of such significance that it forever changes the way you perceive life itself. For Paul LaRoche, that moment came in November 1993, when he was reunited with his biological Lakota family. This episode of Hidden Heritage delves into the poignant story of his adoption and reconnection, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of Orange Shirt Day.
Join us as we uncover the origins of Orange Shirt Day, inspired by Phyllis Webstad's personal story, and understand its importance in honoring survivors of the residential and boarding school systems. Learn how this day, which began in Canada, resonates deeply across the United States and Turtle Island, commemorating a painful history while fostering resilience, healing, and hope.
Discover the impact of the American Indian Boarding School Program and its long-lasting effects on Native communities. Hear about the ongoing efforts to revitalize Indigenous languages, traditions, and ways of life, and find out how you can participate in meaningful observance of Orange Shirt Day. This episode is a tribute to the strength of Indigenous peoples and a call to action for reconciliation and understanding.

Paul LaRoche shares his remarkable story of discovering his true Native American heritage after being adopted at birth and raised in a small, middle-class farming community. 
Brulé's Hidden Heritage introduces the BEHING THE SONG series to the podcast.  Join Composer Paul LaRoche as he shares the inspirations that sparked the melodies and emotions behind the songs in the Brulé catalog.   
In this episode, Paul recounts his emotional journey of becoming part of two worlds, the challenges of integrating into a new culture, and the profound impact it had on his life. Through music, dance, and storytelling, Paul and his band Brulé present the original song “Dakota Rainstorm,” capturing the essence of his unique experience and the deep connection to his heritage.
Join us for an inspiring and touching exploration of identity, family, and cultural heritage, featuring a special live performance recorded during Brule’s residency at the RFD TV Theater in Branson, Missouri.