23 episodes

Sort of like, what happens when you get overpowered by the Nevada Sun—while listening to Nuthin’ but a G Thang (on repeat)—and at the same time, listening to a heavily tattoo'd guy from HV1, intelligently-and-existentially deconstruct (and reconstruct) strange meanings of life. All from a tribal perspective. Yeah, it’s kind of like that…

Coffee with an Indian Brian "BB" Melendez

    • Society & Culture
    • 4.8 • 105 Ratings

Sort of like, what happens when you get overpowered by the Nevada Sun—while listening to Nuthin’ but a G Thang (on repeat)—and at the same time, listening to a heavily tattoo'd guy from HV1, intelligently-and-existentially deconstruct (and reconstruct) strange meanings of life. All from a tribal perspective. Yeah, it’s kind of like that…

    The Lesson Learned

    The Lesson Learned

    It’s been a while. Brian ruminates on post-pandemic change in Indian Country, in the world, and in himself. 
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    Coffee with an Indian is a provocative conversation from Indian Country, for Indian Country, and for our relatives around the globe. Hosted by Brian “BB” Melendez from the Tribal Minds Studio in Reno, NV.
     
    If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian, you’re going to love Coffee with an Indian_Black.
     
    Please consider subscribing to Coffee with an Indian_Black, which is the Extended, uncut version of the very best from Season 2 and features the unabashed, R-rated cuts from every episode of Season 1. This service is exclusively on Patreon. Every subscription helps us move the show (and the conversation) further.
     
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    At the heart of Nevada's indigenous resurgence stands Brian “BB” Melendez, an esteemed Tribal member of the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony and the driving force behind Tribal Minds, Inc. Born amidst the turbulence of the 2020 global pandemic, Tribal Minds emerged as a beacon of hope and a testament to resilience. As a Native-led grassroots nonprofit, the organization cast a statewide net of influence across Nevada's 28 federally-recognized Tribes and Colonies, embodying the mission to build and fortify healthy working relationships among them.
     
    Challenging the status quo and reshaping conventional approaches, Tribal Minds became a transformative force, dispelling "business-as-usual" attitudes prevalent in other organizations and community spaces. With Melendez at its helm, the organization envisioned a brighter future, crafting sustainable Native-forward initiatives and continually pushing against the boundaries of industry standards. This was more than just an organizational venture; it was a movement.
     
    The stark disparities faced by their communities, especially during existential crises, highlighted the pressing need for an external third-party organization capable of offering fresh perspectives and essential skillsets. Tribal Minds stepped up to this challenge. As both a voice of reason and a dependable network of relatives, they provided a lifeline when it was needed the most. Their journey was not without challenges, but with a blend of realism and spiritual hope, they carved a path forward.
     
    Brian’s leadership credentials span over two decades. Beyond his pivotal role in Tribal Minds, he is a Sundance Chief, guiding his Tribe through sacred ceremonies, a published voice in American Indian spirituality, and the charismatic host of the "Coffee with an Indian" podcast. Holding a master’s degree in justice management and a bachelor's in criminal justice from the University of Nevada, Reno, his expertise has also manifested in culturally attuned prevention programs for Native families and youth.
     
    Currently, Brian channels his passion into writing, with a novel set for a 2023 publication. The legacy of his commitment to the indigenous community, both through Tribal Minds and beyond, remains an enduring testament to his spirit and dedication.



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    Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @el_stoneman and @coffeewithanindian
     
    #coffeewithanindian #cwaiblack #thelessonlearned #tribalmindsinc #lucentree #nativenonprofit #tribalmindsinc

    • 20 min
    Episode 2: Redrum MC Great Basin Chapter

    Episode 2: Redrum MC Great Basin Chapter

    Waylon Marvin of Redrum MC’s Great Basin chapter stops in to talk about Nevada’s tribal culture, being away from home, and the vast and varied world of the motorcycle club scene.
    -------
     
    Coffee with an Indian is a provocative conversation from Indian Country, for Indian Country, and for our relatives around the globe. Hosted by Brian “BB” Melendez from the Tribal Minds Studios in Reno, NV.
     
    If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian, you’re going to love Coffee with an Indian_Black.
    Please consider subscribing to Coffee with an Indian_Black, which is the Extended, uncut version of the very best from Season 2 and features the unabashed, R-rated cuts from every episode of Season 1. This service is exclusively on Patreon. Every subscription helps us move the show (and the conversation) further.
     
    -------
     
    At the heart of Nevada's indigenous resurgence stands Brian “BB” Melendez, an esteemed Tribal member of the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony and the driving force behind Tribal Minds, Inc. Born amidst the turbulence of the 2020 global pandemic, Tribal Minds emerged as a beacon of hope and a testament to resilience. As a Native-led grassroots nonprofit, the organization cast a statewide net of influence across Nevada's 28 federally-recognized Tribes and Colonies, embodying the mission to build and fortify healthy working relationships among them.
     
    Challenging the status quo and reshaping conventional approaches, Tribal Minds became a transformative force, dispelling "business-as-usual" attitudes prevalent in other organizations and community spaces. With Melendez at its helm, the organization envisioned a brighter future, crafting sustainable Native-forward initiatives and continually pushing against the boundaries of industry standards. This was more than just an organizational venture; it was a movement.
     
    The stark disparities faced by their communities, especially during existential crises, highlighted the pressing need for an external third-party organization capable of offering fresh perspectives and essential skill sets. Tribal Minds stepped up to this challenge. As both a voice of reason and a dependable network of relatives, they provided a lifeline when it was needed the most. Their journey was not without challenges, but with a blend of realism and spiritual hope, they carved a path forward.
     
    Brian’s leadership credentials span over two decades. Beyond his pivotal role in Tribal Minds, he is a Sundance Chief, guiding his Tribe through sacred ceremonies, a published voice in American Indian spirituality, and the charismatic host of the "Coffee with an Indian" podcast. Holding a master’s degree in justice management and a bachelor's in criminal justice from the University of Nevada, Reno, his expertise has also manifested in culturally attuned prevention programs for Native families and youth.
     
    Currently, Brian channels his passion into writing, with a novel set for a 2023 publication. The legacy of his commitment to the indigenous community, both through Tribal Minds and beyond, remains an enduring testament to his spirit and dedication.



    -------
     
    Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @el_stoneman and @coffeewithanindian
     
    #coffeewithanindian #cwaiblack #thelessonlearned #tribalmindsinc #lucentree #tribalmindsinc #nativenonprofit

    • 44 min
    Ground Zero

    Ground Zero

    Welcome to Coffee with an Indian, I’m BB, your Host and Resident-Indian.  You are now about to listen to a brilliantly composed tribal narrative, in a way that has never been done before on any podcast. Have you ever wondered what it’s like living on a modern Indian Reservation? Have you ever had to make something out of nothing? Are you ready for a unique and complex story, filled with struggle and spirit? We’ll you’re in luck because here it is.
    Season 1 is a serial style podcast. So, please listen in ascending order from Episode 1 to Episode 21. If you do this, you’ll get the best experience.
    First and foremost, I compose these podcasts from my heart and memory. After you give this episode a listen, if you can please tag this post and share the content with your friends and relatives, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you all for your time and consideration.
    -BB
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    If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian…you’re going to love Coffee with an Indian_Black.
    Please consider subscribing to Coffee with an Indian_Black, which is the Extended, R-Rated version of each and every episode. This service is exclusively on Patreon. Every subscription helps us move the podcast further in every way possible.
    You’ve been warned; this is the dark side of the podcast.  
    -------
    Brian “BB” Melendez, is a Northern / Southern Paiute - Western Shoshone, CEO / Problem Solver of Lucentree, LLC; Tribal Community Leader; American Indian Spirituality Scholar; Practitioner of Great Basin Custom(s) and Culture(s); the Creator or Mahkwuhoo (Guided Meditation); and Host of the Coffee with an Indian, Podcast.
    Contact Information: bb@lucentree.com
    -------
    Follow Me: @lucentree  
    You can find me on: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
    #coffeewithanindian #cwaiblack #thelessonlearned #lucentree

    • 19 min
    Indian Boy

    Indian Boy

    Why is it crucial to know the history of where your family comes from? Have you ever thought to yourself, just how impactful your parent’s life experiences have been in your own story? Listen now to learn about the secrets and tricks of little Indian Boys.
    First and foremost, I compose these podcasts from my heart and memory. After you give this episode a listen, if you can please tag this post and share the content with your friends and relatives, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you all for your time and consideration.
    -BB
    -------
    If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian…you’re going to love Coffee with an Indian_Black.
    Please consider subscribing to Coffee with an Indian_Black, which is the Extended, R-Rated version of each and every episode. This service is exclusively on Patreon. Every subscription helps us move the podcast further in every way possible.
    You’ve been warned; this is the dark side of the podcast.  
    -------
    Brian “BB” Melendez, is a Northern / Southern Paiute - Western Shoshone, CEO / Problem Solver of Lucentree, LLC; Tribal Community Leader; American Indian Spirituality Scholar; Practitioner of Great Basin Custom(s) and Culture(s); the Creator or Mahkwuhoo (Guided Meditation); and Host of the Coffee with an Indian, Podcast.
    Contact Information: bb@lucentree.com
    -------
    Follow me ( @lucentree ) on: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
    #coffeewithanindian #cwaiblack #thelessonlearned #lucentree
     

    • 12 min
    The Green Side of the Mountain

    The Green Side of the Mountain

    Do you want to know what was life was like, as an Indian child, in Reno during the late 80’s?  Do you understand how violence and trauma can shape a young mind? Have you ever wondered how common another person’s depression can impact other people’s paths forever? If you’re prepared to find out, listen right now…
    Season 1 is a serial style podcast. So, please listen in ascending order from Episode 1 to Episode 21. If you can listen to the episodes in this order, you’ll appreciate the intended experience. I compose these podcasts from my heart and memory, and it takes me awhile to get the content the way it needs to be, so thank you for your patience. After you give this episode a listen, if you can please tag this post and share the content with your friends and relatives, I would greatly appreciate it.
    -BB
    -------
    If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian…you’re going to love Coffee with an Indian_Black.
    Please consider subscribing to Coffee with an Indian_Black, which is the Extended, R-Rated version of each and every episode. This service is exclusively on Patreon. Every subscription helps us move the podcast further in every way possible.
    You’ve been warned; this is the dark side of the podcast.  
    -------
    Brian “BB” Melendez, is a Northern / Southern Paiute - Western Shoshone, CEO / Problem Solver of Lucentree, LLC; Tribal Community Leader; American Indian Spirituality Scholar; Practitioner of Great Basin Custom(s) and Culture(s); the Creator or Mahkwuhoo (Guided Meditation); and Host of the Coffee with an Indian, Podcast.
    Contact Information: bb@lucentree.com
    -------
    Follow Me: @lucentree
    You can find me on: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
    #coffeewithanindian #cwaiblack #thelessonlearned #lucentree

    • 15 min
    In-Between Dwellers

    In-Between Dwellers

    Have you ever wondered how American Indian family’s transition after a suicide? What do you think life is like, for a child born with serious childhood disabilities? Or consider how difficult it must be to provide a struggling child with comfort? Learn why an Indian boy, would leave the only caregivers he would ever know, to live with his biological mother in a broken home? To find out all these mysterious details, listen right now…
    Season 1 is a serial style podcast. So, please listen in ascending order from Episode 1 to Episode 21. If you can listen to the episodes in this order, you’ll appreciate the intended experience.
    I compose these podcasts from my heart and memory, and it takes me awhile to get the content the way it needs to be, so thank you for your patience. After you give this episode a listen, if you can please tag this post and share the content with your friends and relatives, I would greatly appreciate it.
    -BB
    -------
    If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian…you’re going to love Coffee with an Indian_Black.
    Please consider subscribing to Coffee with an Indian_Black, which is the Extended, R-Rated version of each and every episode. This service is exclusively on Patreon. Every subscription helps us move the podcast further in every way possible.
    You’ve been warned; this is the dark side of the podcast.  
    -------
    Brian “BB” Melendez, is a Northern / Southern Paiute - Western Shoshone, CEO / Problem Solver of Lucentree, LLC; Tribal Community Leader; American Indian Spirituality Scholar; Practitioner of Great Basin Custom(s) and Culture(s); the Creator or Mahkwuhoo (Guided Meditation); and Host of the Coffee with an Indian, Podcast.
    Contact Information: bb@lucentree.com
    -------
    Follow Me: @lucentree
    You can find me on: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
    #coffeewithanindian #cwaiblack #thelessonlearned #lucentree

    • 16 min

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5
105 Ratings

105 Ratings

SusanGu2 ,

Glad you are back

Hi Brian, I learned so much from season 1 and am looking forward to season 2.

Gio598 ,

New Season anytime soon!

Hello Brian are you in the making of a new season anytime soon this series is really good I can’t wait to hear more content!

t k o ,

Healing, funny, spiritual, brutal

To me, Brian Melindez has created something special here, reminding me of a mix between Wonder Years/Fresh Off the Boat remixed by Tupac fans from Southwest US urban culture. Though I am a pretty typical white boy, I can relate instantly to the cultural backdrop Brian paints of his dusty, unstructured urban desert upbringing. His direct, honest storytelling has offered me laughs, healthy discomfort, spiritual intrigue, and lots of unexpected sobbing in my car. Thank you, BB, for your gift and contributions. It is honorable work.

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