Indigenous Earth Community Podcast

Frank Oscar Weaver
  • 4.7 (60)
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Indigenous Earth Community Podcast

An empowering journey alongside Indigenous heroes from around the world. In ’Indigenous Earth,’ you’re not just a listener; you’re an active participant in a transformative mission to become true stewards of our planet. Explore inspiring stories and wisdom from Indigenous cultures, and on how to take steps to connect and protect our beautiful Earth. Indigenous Earth Community Podcast is proudly powered by Indigenous Earth INC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our Mission: Sharing and preserving Indigenous knowledge through storytelling and workshops to educate and inspire youth and communities to take action for a thriving Earth now and for generations to come.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    5 Ways to Honor Our Green Spaces with Watson Whitford

    5 Ways to Honor Our Green Spaces with Watson Whitford Episode Summary In this powerful episode, Frank Oscar Weaver is joined by Watson Whitford (Wapanatak), co-president of UNITY and member of the Chippewa Cree tribe and Navajo Nation. Together, they explore five essential ways to be a mindful visitor in parks and natural places, weaving together traditional wisdom and practical guidance for honoring our green spaces. The Five Ways to Honor Green Spaces Become a True Steward Connect with the issues affecting natural spaces Educate yourself about environmental challenges Take action in your community Leave It Better Than You Found It Take responsibility for keeping spaces clean Think of future generations Protect the beauty of our lands Honor Ceremonial Spaces Recognize the sacred nature of many parks Respect ongoing ceremonies Seek permission and guidance Respect Wildlife Boundaries Avoid disturbing animal behavior Maintain appropriate distances Remember every creature has its place Get in the Right State of Mind Ask permission before entering natural spaces Practice mindful visitation Show gratitude through offerings   Notable Quotes "We're a part of this circle of life. I'm no higher than a ladybug. I'm no higher than a buffalo. And we're all the same. We all come from the same place." - Watson Whitford "I want this place to be beautiful. I want there to be clean water, clean air to breathe, to be healthy animals and healthy plants. Not just for my relatives that are here with us now, but for people that will be coming in the future that aren't even here yet." - Watson Whitford "Our traditional ways of ceremony are good... we don't talk down about other people's way of religion or talk down about the way other people pray. You know, because we want to be uplifting. We want to help each other." - Watson Whitford Special Offer Visit indigenousearth.org to receive an exclusive video prayer from Watson Whitford, guiding you in practicing mindful visitation to green spaces. Connect with Watson Whitford Email: copresident@unityinc.org Instagram: @watson_whitford05 Role: Co-President of UNITY   Support UNITY UNITY (United National Indian Tribal Youth) supports Indigenous youth leadership across the nation. Your donation helps: Support Indigenous youth programs Preserve traditional knowledge Foster environmental stewardship Develop future leaders Donate at: unityinc.org/donate Stay Connected Subscribe to our newsletter: indigenousearth.org Follow Indigenous Earth Community on Instagram at @frankoscarweaver   Credits Host: Frank Oscar Weaver - Pai Tavytera - Tribe of Paraguay Guest: Watson Whitford -Navajo/ Chippewa Cree  Sound Engineer: Jake Kelch    This podcast acknowledges that many parks and natural areas are on ancestral Indigenous lands that have been stewarded by Native people for thousands of generations.   Topics: mindful visiting, indigenous lands, environmental stewardship, wildlife respect, ceremonial spaces, leave no trace, climate change, indigenous wisdom, nature connection, community engagement

    34 min

  2. JAN 6

    Water, Words, and Ancient Potatoes: Alastair Bitsóí's Journey from Journalism to Indigenous Farming

    In this powerful episode, we meet Alastair Lee Bitsóí from Naschitti, Navajo Nation, New Mexico, a water clan storyteller whose journey weaves together traditional Indigenous wisdom and modern advocacy. From the challenges of water access affecting one-third of Navajo households to the unexpected healing power of an ancient Four Corners potato, Alastair shares how returning to the land has become a path toward personal and community healing. 🌱 Through stories of water harvesting, traditional farming, and generational healing, Alastair reveals how Indigenous knowledge systems continue to thrive and adapt in today's world. Join host Frank Oscar Weaver for an intimate conversation about resilience, restoration, and the profound connection between land and healing. ✨ Key Highlights: Traditional Indigenous farming practices in Navajo Nation Water rights and accessibility in Indigenous communities The cultural significance of the Four Corners potato Mental health and healing in Native communities Indigenous environmental stewardship 🌎 Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of historical trauma and mental health challenges. Crisis Support: Native Crisis Line partners with Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board and the Indian Health Service. Text NATIVE to 741-741 to connect with a crisis counselor. 🌎   💫  Learn more at: www.indigenousearth.org Share Your Thoughts: Help shape our show: www.indigenousearth.org/survey/2024-survey/   Connect with us on Instagram: Host: Frank Oscar Weaver @frankoscarweaver Guest: Alastair Lee Bitsóí @alastairbitsoi   Music Credit: Traditional Flute Performance: Andrew Thomas (Diné), Product Specialist at Indian Pueblo Store Production

    51 min

  3. 12/03/2024

    Giving Tuesday: Empowering Indigenous Youth Through Books

    We’re joined by Anagali Duncan, founder of the nonprofit Seven Ravens, who shares their inspiring mission to bring books written by Indigenous authors to Native youth. The Indigenous Book Drop initiative is about more than just books—it’s about empowerment, representation, and fostering a deeper connection to culture and heritage. Anagali’s story sheds light on the systemic challenges Indigenous youth face in accessing culturally relevant education and the transformative power of storytelling in shaping identity and resilience.   ✨ What You’ll Learn:• The vision behind the Indigenous Book Drop initiative.• How representation in education empowers Native youth.• The importance of supporting Indigenous authors and bookstores.• How you can join the movement to amplify Indigenous voices.   🔗 Support the Indigenous Book Drop: 💸 Donate to the GoFundMe  📚 Buy from Indigenous-Owned Bookstores   📦 Ship directly via Amazon, Send them to: 7 Ravens PO Box 1327 Stilwell Oklahoma 74960   Books Needed: Ages 4-10: We Are Water Protectors   Being Home   Ages 11-15: Braiding Sweet Grass (3 have been donated) Never Whistle at night Ages 16-18: Notable Native People (20 have been donated) Invisible No More Voices from Native America Sobriety group: A guide to sobriety ten gentle reminders (3 donated need 17 more)   Connect with Seven Ravens:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/274841377525608     Thank!!    📋 We Need Your Input!Take our 2024 Indigenous Earth Survey and help shape the future of the podcast. Your feedback is invaluable!🔗 Survey Link   🔗 Connect with Indigenous Earth Podcast:🌿 Website: https://www.indigenousearth.org   Let’s make this Giving Tuesday a day of meaningful change for Indigenous youth!

    4 min

  4. 11/24/2024

    Ancestral Calls and Sacred Lands: Nana Kwesi Osei Bonsu’s Fight for Nature

    In this episode, we’re joined by Nana Kwesi Osei Bonsu, a descendant of the Ashanti Empire, who shares his remarkable journey of cultural identity, ancestral heritage, and environmental advocacy. Growing up in Ghana, Nana experienced a profound spiritual calling to lead his people and protect sacred lands.   You can watch the podcast here:https://youtu.be/pZF3JtpQGvs?si=uCjn0gbvAfU6TK-M   ✨ What You’ll Learn:• The power of ancestral wisdom and spiritual practices.• The struggles of advocating for land rights in the face of persecution.• How Indigenous knowledge plays a vital role in environmental and climate justice.• The founding of Land Rights Defenders, a nonprofit championing Indigenous rights and ecological preservation.   🔗 Connect with Land Rights Defenders:📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093029490121&mibextid=MKOS29📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/landrightsinc💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/land-rights-defenders-inc/🐦 Twitter: X.com/LandRightsInc    📋 We Need Your Input!Take our 2024 Indigenous Earth Survey and help shape the future of the podcast. Your feedback is invaluable! 🔗 https://www.indigenousearth.org/survey/2024-survey/   🔗 Connect with Indigenous Earth Podcast:🌿 Website: https://www.indigenousearth.org   Join us for this inspiring conversation and take the next step in protecting our shared planet! 🌱

    33 min

  5. 10/14/2024

    Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Defending the Earth and the Sacred

    What if the answers to the climate crisis are here? In this special Indigenous Peoples’ Day episode, host Frank Oscar Weaver speaks with Indigenous leaders from across the world who are on the front lines of the fight to protect their lands and our planet. Impirita, an Indigenous leader from Peru, shares the harsh reality her community faces as industrial mining contaminates rivers that have provided life and sustenance for generations. “All these rivers are contaminated, not just by sewage, but also by mining activities,” – Impirita Frank reflects on the wisdom of Indigenous teachings, like those of Dr. Don Dexter from the Klamath Tribes, who explains how removing Indigenous people from their lands disrupts a natural cycle that keeps ecosystems in balance. Beth Tupara-Katene from Aotearoa (New Zealand) reminds us of the deep responsibility of reciprocity between people and nature, and the urgent need to protect sacred lands. From the ancient mounds of the Tocobaga tribe in Florida, believed to protect the region from hurricanes, to the laws that silence the words "climate change," this episode explores the modern challenges Indigenous communities face. These storms and disasters are not merely natural—they are #UnnaturalDisasters, fueled by climate pollution.   🌍 Take Action: Support local tribes and advocate for Indigenous rights. Join efforts to protect sacred sites in Florida. Contribute to climate resilience projects and Indigenous-led initiatives. Join us in honoring the Earth by standing with those who have been defending it for generations.   Credits: "It's a good day to be Indigenous” is a quote from 1998 independent film “Smoke Signals" Highly recommend it!  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoke_Signals_(film) Music by SimonGrayA raw recording of the dawn opening ceremony and pōwhiri of the Harbourview Sculpture Trail on the Te Atatu Peninsula in Auckland. (The pōwhiri (or pōhiri) is the welcoming ceremony on a marae. Marae are not the only places where pōwhiri take place. Pōwhiri can happen anywhere that hosts (tangata whenua) wish to formally welcome a group of visitors (manuhiri).) https://freesound.org/people/simongray/sounds/339321/   🎧 Listen now to learn how you can take meaningful steps to protect our planet and support Indigenous communities: Indigenous Earth Podcast.

    7 min

  6. 09/09/2024

    Rivers Are Alive: Protecting Water and Culture from Environmental Displacement with Impirita Samani

    What if rivers were more than just water—they were living beings with spirit, memory, and life? In this episode, Frank Oscar Weaver speaks with Impirita Samani, an Indigenous Ashaninka leader from Peru, about her people's deep connection to rivers and the devastating impact of illegal mining. "We treat the river as a living person, even though it may seem invisible, it is always present." – Impirita Samani Impirita shares how environmental destruction not only pollutes their sacred waters but displaces Indigenous communities, severing cultural and spiritual ties to the land. Learn how we can reconnect with rivers, not as guardians, but as children of the Earth, and take steps to protect these vital sources of life. Impirita is sharing the beautiful Ikaro Ashaninka song “TSIROWANKO”, which pays homage to the magical bird Tsirotsi (Cacicus Cela). This bird is a spiritual guide in the Amazon, imitating the songs of the jungle and carrying messages from PAWA, the creator of the universe. This song symbolizes the resilience of Ashaninka culture, the power of the feminine, and the deep bond with the natural world. Just as “TSIROWANKO” leads us to the heart of the Amazon, our episode delves into the threats Indigenous communities face from environmental destruction and cultural displacement, and how we can unite to protect the sacred rivers and lands.   🌟 Take Action: Support Impirita Samani’s work: Connect here. Join local river cleanups in Central Florida: Central Florida Recon Waterway Clean ups . Contribute to Native youth mental health initiatives: Donate here. Credits: Photo by Neil Giardino Music By: Impirita Samani  Illegal gold mining thrives in Amazon, miners attack indigenous people | WION Climate Tracker | News   🎧 Listen now to discover how you can help protect rivers and support Indigenous communities: Indigenous Earth Podcast.

    11 min

  7. 08/01/2024

    Giving Back to the Earth: The Significance of Pachamama Day

    We explore the tradition of Pachamama Day, celebrated on August 1st in Latin America. This day, originating from the Andean communities of South America, is dedicated to honoring Pachamama, the goddess of fertility and the earth. Growing up, Pachamama Day was one of my favorite holidays, a time to slow down and enjoy traditional drinks like Yerba mate drink of terere made with seven medicinal herbs and Carrulim, a Paraguayan beverage made from Caña, Ruda, and Limón. Join me as I recount a visit to Pedro Juan Caballero in Paraguay with my brother Jackson, where we met a medicine woman preparing herbs for these special drinks. You’ll learn about the significance of some of the herbs, and the ritual of giving back to Pachamama, echoing practices observed in the Andes. This episode is a celebration of gratitude and reciprocity, emphasizing how small acts of giving back to the earth can foster a deeper connection with nature. What You’ll Gain: Cultural Enrichment: Understand the rich traditions and rituals of Pachamama Day. Practical Wisdom: Learn how to incorporate Indigenous practices into your life to enhance your well-being and environmental stewardship. Inspiration to Act: Be inspired to take concrete steps, from community cleanups to tree planting, to contribute to the health of our planet. 00:00 Introduction to Pachamama Day 00:44 The Significance of Pachamama Day 01:14 Traditional Drinks and Their Origins 01:45 Personal Anecdotes and Beliefs 02:14 The Seven Herb Mixture 04:08 Giving Back to Pachamama 05:37 Call to Action and Conclusion   🌻 We would love to hear from you! Share your experiences and learnings about Pachamama on social media and tag us. Engage in community activities like cleanups and tree planting to deepen your connection with nature. 📧 Subscribe to our Indigenous Earth newsletter to watch a special video of me and my brother purchasing the herbs from the Yuyera a medicine woman, and see my Paraguayan grandmother help create this traditional drink. Thank you for joining us today. Until next time, stay connected with nature and with each other. Aguye! https://www.indigenousearth.org/ Topics We Explore: Indigenous wisdom and environmental practices Rituals and traditions like Pachamama Day Community involvement and sustainability efforts

    7 min

  8. 06/18/2024

    Tangaroa Ara Rau: Māori Indigenous Wisdom for Ocean Governance

    🌊 We have the honor of speaking with Beth Tupara-Katene, a dedicated champion of Māori rights and interests within the marine domain. Beth shares her profound connection to the ocean and the innovative Tangaroa Ararau Research Project, which aims to create an ocean-centric governance regime rooted in Māori customs and practices. Learn more: https://uhitai.org   Topics We Explore:   🌀 Indigenous Wisdom and Environmental Stewardship: Learn how Indigenous perspectives view everything as interconnected and interrelated, offering holistic approaches to modern environmental challenges. 🌏 Māori Ocean Governance: Discover how the Tangaroa Ararau Research Project places the ocean at the center of decision-making, ensuring sustainable use of marine resources and honoring Māori traditions. 🌡️ Climate Change and Marine Conservation: Understand the impacts of climate change on ocean ecosystems and explore solutions driven by indigenous knowledge. 🛶 Community and Cultural Connections: Hear personal stories from Beth and other guests about their deep, spiritual connections to their lands and waters, and how these bonds guide their environmental efforts.   Featured Guest: Beth Tupara-Katene Beth Tupara-Katene has spent her career championing Māori rights and interests within the marine domain. With over a decade of experience in central government and Māori organizations, Beth brings invaluable insights into policy development, regulatory frameworks, and resource management strategies for the ocean. She played a significant role in implementing the Māori Commercial Claims Aquaculture Settlement and has worked tirelessly to amplify Māori voices in ocean governance. Her dedication to sustainable marine resource use and cultural stewardship makes her a powerful voice in addressing the urgent challenges facing our oceans today.   🐕 Support Rez Animal Protectors: While exploring the Navajo Nation capital of Window Rock, I witnessed the incredible efforts of my friends Zunneh-Bah and Nate, who rescue and care for animals in need. If you can, please support their work by visiting Rez Animal Protectors on Facebook and checking out their Amazon wish list. Every little bit helps. https://www.facebook.com/AnimalsAreSacred   Listen Now: 🎧 Join us for an enriching conversation with Beth as she shares the design principles of the Tangaroa Ararau project and how we can integrate these principles into our daily lives. Visit our website Indigenous Earth for more information, and stay tuned for future episodes that dive even deeper into the wisdom of indigenous communities.   Quote: “Indigenous people are the thought leaders in this space because we have always held the perspective that everything is interconnected.”   Call to Action: Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 💚   🌻 We would love to hear from you!Contact Us   Mixing by Jake Kelch

    35 min
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4.7
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An empowering journey alongside Indigenous heroes from around the world. In ’Indigenous Earth,’ you’re not just a listener; you’re an active participant in a transformative mission to become true stewards of our planet. Explore inspiring stories and wisdom from Indigenous cultures, and on how to take steps to connect and protect our beautiful Earth. Indigenous Earth Community Podcast is proudly powered by Indigenous Earth INC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our Mission: Sharing and preserving Indigenous knowledge through storytelling and workshops to educate and inspire youth and communities to take action for a thriving Earth now and for generations to come.

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