Pow Wow Life | Interviews with Native American Artists, Creators, and Leaders

North of North is back. Season two premieres September 8 on APTN and CBC, and I sat down with four of the women who make it. Anna Lambe plays Siaja, a young Inuk mother rebuilding her life in the tiny Arctic town of Ice Cove. Maika Harper plays Neevee — Siaja's mom, and the source of about half the chaos. We talked about playing a mother-daughter relationship that feels this real, what it means to see Inuit life on screen without a documentary frame around it, and what changed for them after the show went global. Then I talked with Stacey Aglok MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, the Inuk filmmakers behind Red Marrow Media who created, wrote and executive produce the series. They built a comedy in the Arctic on their own terms — filmed on location in Iqaluit and Apex, Nunavut, with an Inuit-led cast and crew — and turned it into Netflix's first Canadian-commissioned original series. Season one hit number nine on Netflix's global top ten, broke into the top ten in 27 countries, and led every comedy at this year's Canadian Screen Awards with nine wins. North of North season two airs Tuesdays on APTN and CBC through September 29, streaming on CBC Gem and APTN+, with a Netflix global release to follow.

When Sunshine Quem Tenasco posted a video of her son Kiniw dancing Woodland at the Saugeen First Nation powwow, she wasn't expecting the response. People came out of the crowd to honor him. The drum stood up to shake his hand. Within days, the video had traveled across Turtle Island. Kiniw joins us on this episode to tell it himself, with his mom alongside him helping carry his words across. He talks about his regalia, the protocols his uncle Tendasi taught him, what it feels like when the drum starts, and what happened at Saugeen when the money went on the drum. Sunshine is Anishinabe from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg in Quebec, a clean water advocate, and the founder of Her Braids and Pow Wow Pitch. She's also the author of Nibi's Water Song and Smile So Big .

Traci Sorell is a Cherokee Nation citizen and one of the most decorated authors working in Native children's literature today. Her books have earned two Sibert Medal honors, two Orbis Pictus honors, eight awards from the American Indian Library Association, the Carter G. Woodson Book Award, and a Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor, among many others. In this episode, Traci joins Paul to talk about her path from federal Indigenous law attorney and nonprofit executive director to full-time author. She also shares the story behind her two new nonfiction books: Riding the Trail: Cherokees Remember the Removal , coauthored with Will Chavez, and Indigenous from A to Z , illustrated by Natasha Donovan.

This week my guest is Glendon N. Smith, a citizen of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon and the Tribal Liaison for the Oregon State Police. Glendon’s work focuses on building stronger communication and understanding between the State of Oregon, Oregon’s Tribes, and law enforcement. His role includes supporting government-to-government relationships, providing Tribal perspective, working on issues connected to treaty rights and tribal sovereignty, and helping improve communication around Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons. He was recently selected for the Public Service Ambassador Award by Governor Tina Kotek, with this year’s theme of “Leading with Purpose.” Glendon is also the first citizen of Warm Springs to receive this award. In this conversation, we talk about what it means to serve as a Tribal Liaison, why relationship-building matters, and how Tribal perspective can help shape better conversations around public safety, sovereignty, and community trust.

Dave Smoot's story doesn't fit neatly into any one box — and that's exactly what makes it so compelling. He's a Tribal Member of the Creek Nation in Oklahoma. A U.S. Army veteran. A tech industry pioneer who helped shape the early days of the software and microcomputer revolution. And today, the founder of companies working to produce sustainable aviation fuel at commercial scale in the United States — with tribal partnership woven into the foundation of that work. Smoot's business career spans nearly 45 years, beginning after his honorable discharge from the Army Reserves in 1975. He spent two decades in the microcomputer industry, eventually rising to Director of Operations at Digital Research in Pacific Grove, California — a role that put him at the table alongside IBM, Microsoft, Apple, and Intel during one of the most transformative periods in tech history.

The 2026 Gathering of Nations is almost here, and in this episode of PowWowLife, I’m walking you through everything you need to know. Whether you’re heading to Albuquerque in person or planning to watch from home, this episode is your guide to the 2026 Gathering of Nations. I’m talking about what to expect at the event, what you do not want to miss, tips for navigating the crowds, grand entries, Stage 49, vendors, and how the livestream will work this year on YouTube. I’m also sharing a few personal stories about my connection to Gathering of Nations and why this year feels especially important. In this episode: What to expect if you’re attending in person Grand entry and key moments you do not want to miss Stage 49, vendors, food, and crowd tips How to watch the livestream on YouTube Membership pricing and livestream details What free content will be available after the powwow Why Gathering of Nations means so much to me Helpful links: Gathering of Nations info: https://www.powwows.com/gathering-nations-pow-wow-north-americas-largest-pow-wow/ Get updates: https://pgowder-powwows-com.kit.com/2026gon Join to watch the live stream: https://www.youtube.com/@Powwows/join Live stream page: https://www.powwows.com/webcast/2026-gathering-of-nations-pow-wow/ Get the 2026 Gathering of Nations digital magazine: https://powwows.thrivecart.com/2026-gathering-pow-wow-magazine/ If you’re going to Gathering this year, or watching from home, let me know in the comments.

What happens when you combine design talent, Indigenous identity, humor, and a sharp eye for what’s missing in the market? You get Born of Legends. This week on Pow Wow Life, Shannon Romero shares how she built her brand, why contemporary Native representation matters, and how she created designs that reflect shared Indigenous experiences. We also get into the business side, including how Etsy helped her launch and grow her work into something bigger. Follow Born of Legends www.bornoflegends.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bornoflegends/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bornoflegends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bornoflegends

What does it take to build a creative life that actually means something? In this episode of the Pow Wow Live Podcast, I sit down with Michelle Brown, Creative Director of Eighth Generation , for a conversation about art, fashion, purpose, and the courage it takes to choose your own path. Michelle shares her journey into fashion and product design, including what it was like pursuing a creative career even when the people closest to her did not fully support that decision at first. She talks honestly about taking that leap, trusting her passion, and why being brave enough to follow your calling matters. We also dive into the heart of what makes Eighth Generation so special, from their beautiful artist-designed products to the way they partner with Native artists to create more sustainable revenue and long-term opportunity. This is a conversation about creativity, culture, entrepreneurship, and building something bigger than yourself. If you have ever wondered whether you should take a chance on your dream, this episode is for you.

This episode features a powerful conversation with the organizers of the Weaving Unity Southeastern MMIW Informational Pow Wow in Lexington, South Carolina. We talk about the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis and why this issue matters deeply here in South Carolina and across the Southeast. The organizers share why they created this event, what they hope the community takes away, and how powwows and gatherings like this can help bring awareness, education, healing, and unity. This is an important conversation about protecting Native women, honoring families and loved ones, and making sure these stories are seen and heard. Weaving Unity Pow Wow Information https://calendar.powwows.com/events/weaving-unity-southeastern-mmiw-informational-pow-wow/

In this episode, I’m joined by Burgandi Trejo Phoenix for a real conversation about what it looks like to build a meaningful career and keep it grounded in who you are. We talk about identity, community, and the moments that shaped her path. Follow Burgandi Trejo Phoenix https://www.instagram.com/burgandiphoenix/?hl=en

In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa Meeches and Denae Robinson , the producers behind the powerful true-crime documentary series TAKEN . Now in Season 5 , TAKEN shares the stories of missing and murdered Indigenous people in Canada , including women and girls, men and boys, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community , with one goal always at the center: honour their lives and help bring them home . We talk about what goes into telling these stories with care, how the team works alongside families, elders and knowledge keepers, community leaders, and law enforcement, and why TAKEN focuses on both the hard facts of a case and the human moments that remind us who these loved ones truly were. We also dig into the bigger questions TAKEN raises about safety, systemic change, and what all of us can do to help end the violence.

In this interview for PowWows.com, Kali Reis dives deep into her role in the upcoming movie Mercy, sharing behind-the-scenes insights from the set and what it means to take on powerful characters. She also talks about the crossover between her boxing career and acting, her life as an Indigenous woman, and how her commitment to community drives her work both on and off-screen. Watch the trailer for Mercy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSS4yqd0x6o Read my full review of Mercy https://www.powwows.com/mercy-review-a-smart-tech-thriller-that-questions-ai-and-justice/

Two Native creatives. One powerful story about forgiveness and healing. In this episode, I sit down with filmmaker Travis Holt Hamilton of Holt Hamilton Films and first time actor Frankie J Gilmore, who stars as Secody in the new feature film Finding Hozho. This drama follows a 70 year old Navajo veteran who must decide whether to forgive his terminally ill and abusive father or stay “in the shadows of Hozho” forever. 🎬 Watch the Finding Hozho trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RS-zIOHUwhk&t=85s 🌐 Learn more: holthamilton.com/finding-hozho If you enjoy conversations about Native storytelling, culture, and film, hit subscribe, give this video a like, and let me know in the comments if you have seen Finding Hozho yet or plan to check it out. 2025 Pow Wow Guide eBook https://powwows.thrivecart.com/2025-pow-wow-guide-what-to-expect-lead/ Find a Pow Wow in your state or province! www.powwows.com/powwowsnearme Pow Wow Essentials https://www.powwows.com/essentials Connect With Us! Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/PowWowscom/ Instagram - https://instagram.com/powwowscom/ Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@powwowscom Favorite Travel Accessories https://www.powwows.com/travelaccessories New to PowWows.com Start here - https://newpowwows.powwows.com/start-here/ We are an Amazon affiliate!

Join me for an interview with James Dommek Jr. and Kahlil Hudson to talk about Hulu’s haunting new documentary Blood & Myth. The film follows James on a deeply personal journey back to a remote Native village in Northern Alaska, where a series of shocking crimes sparked chilling questions about culture, identity, and the line between myth and reality. At the heart of the story is the case of Teddy Kyle Smith, an Iñupiaq actor who claimed his violent actions were guided by encounters with the legendary Iñukuns — beings long feared in northern Native communities. Directed by Kahlil Hudson and based on the Audible Original Midnight Son, Blood & Myth is more than a true-crime tale. It’s a powerful exploration of Native storytelling, the clash of worldviews, and what happens when you wander too far from home. Find a Pow Wow in your state or province! www.powwows.com/powwowsnearme Pow Wow Essentials https://www.powwows.com/essentials

Traveling with your family should be exciting, not stressful — but keeping everyone safe is always top of mind. After seeing several children get lost at a recent Pow Wow, I couldn’t stop thinking about how scary that must have been for them and their parents. It also reminded me of moments when my own daughter was little and how quickly situations can turn frightening. Tonight on Pow Wow Nation Live, we’re diving into family travel safety. I’ll share practical tips you can teach your kids, tools and tech that can give you peace of mind, and ways to prepare before you ever hit the road. From situational awareness to AirTags and everything in between, this is a conversation every parent should hear. I’d also love to hear from you — what do you do to keep your children safe while traveling? Join in, share your tips, and let’s learn from each other. Find my favorites travel accessories - https://powwows.com/paulspicks Join the OTG Travel Community - https://ck.powwows.com/ontheg Find a Pow Wow in your state or province! www.powwows.com/powwowsnearme Pow Wow Essentials https://www.powwows.com/essentials

Join Paul G tonigh on Pow Wow Nation Life! Let’s talk about how you can find Pow Wows near you this summer! Pow Wow Info https://calendar.powwows.com/events/alabama-coushatta-annual-pow-wow/ Find a Pow Wow in your state or province! www.powwows.com/powwowsnearme New to PowWows.com Start here - https://newpowwows.powwows.com/start-here/ Learn more about Pow Wows https://www.powwows.com/main/pow-wow-visitors-guide/

Join me for an interview with D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, star of the new war drama Warfare, directed by Ray Mendoza and Alex Garland. We talk about his intense role, the training that went into it, and what it means to portray real-life experiences on screen. After the interview, I share my personal review of the film — no spoilers, but if you want to go in completely fresh, you might want to pause and come back later. This isn’t your typical war movie. Warfare drops you into one day, with one SEAL team, in real time — no exposition, no resolution. Just the experience. And it’s unforgettable. Huge thanks to A24 Studios and The Market Co for arranging the interview and giving me early access to the film.

Pow Wow season is here, and I want to help you make the most of it! Whether you’re hitting the road for the big ones or checking out a local Pow Wow for the first time, I’ve got some tips to make sure you’re ready. I’ll be sharing: ✅ How to find Pow Wows near you ✅ What to bring and how to prepare ✅ Tips for dancers, vendors, and spectators ✅ Pow Wow etiquette & what to expect ✅ Ways to fully experience the culture and community Plus, let’s talk about the Gathering of Nations and other major Pow Wows coming up! Drop your questions in the comments and tell me which Pow Wows you’re most excited for this year. Links from today's show. Pow Wow Season Giveaway https://www.powwows.com/2025-pow-wow-season-kick-off-giveaway/ 2025 Pow Wo Calendar https://www.powwows.com/powwowsnearme Pow Wow FAQ http://www.powwows.com/powwow101 Pow Wow Essentials https://www.powwows.com/paulspicks What to bring to a Pow Wow https://www.powwows.com/what-to-bring-to-a-native-american-pow-wow/

Join me for an interview with the curator and organizers of the Indigenous Chicago project. Home to the Potawatomi, Odawa, Ojibwe, Peoria, Kaskaskia, Myaamia, Wea, Sauk, Meskwaki, and Ho-Chunk peoples, the place we now call Chicago has long been a historic crossroads for many Indigenous people and remains home to an extensive urban Native community. Yet most Chicagoans are unaware of the city’s history as a home to diverse Indigenous peoples and the vibrant Indigenous communities present today. Part of a multifaceted initiative developed in partnership between the Newberry, advisors from the Chicago Native community, and representatives from tribal nations with historic connections to Chicago, this exhibition reflects the dynamic and complex aspects of Native life in Chicago from the seventeenth century to the present. The exhibition draws largely on the Newberry's collection while also showcasing new work by contemporary Native artists, including Jason Wesaw (Pokagon Band of Potawatomi), Camille Billie (Oneida), and Jim Terry (Ho-Chunk).

Join Paul G with an interview from Tokala Black Elk from NBC's new show - Happy's Place staring Reba McIntire. Elk appeared in the limited series “1883” and also recurred in the first season of “Yellowstone.” In addition, Elk’s TV’s work includes “Outer Range,” “Lewis & Clark,” “Into the West,” “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” and “Grey’s Anatomy.” Elk can next be seen starring in Peter Berg’s “American Primeval” limited series for Netflix, opposite Taylor Kitsch. On the feature side, Elk got his start in “Wind River,” a role that garnered him much critical acclaim. He co-starred in “The Bygone,” “The Valley of the Gods” and “The Dark Foe,” for which he was nominated for best supporting actor at the Madrid International Film Festival. As a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and a direct descendant of Lakota holy man Black Elk, Tokala grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and speaks in several native languages.