“From Vision to Legacy: James Parker Shield on Building the Native Hall of Fame”

Get ready for part 2, we welcome back James Parker Shield, the driving force behind the National Native American Hall of Fame. Raised in Montana and a member of the Little Shell Chippewa Tribe, Shield overcame challenges of foster care and homelessness to become a groundbreaking journalist, public servant, and advocate. His Hall of Fame now honors Indigenous heroes from every field, while providing educational programs that ensure Native achievements are remembered and celebrated for generations to come.

ABOUT JAMES

Jesse Flores is an accomplished music industry executive with more than two decades of experience in artist development, label relations, and business strategy. He currently serves as Vice President of Artist and Label Partnerships at Intercept Music, where he leads initiatives to empower independent musicians and labels through innovative distribution, marketing, and monetization tools. Flores brings a forward-thinking approach to connecting artists with the digital resources they need to thrive in today’s evolving music landscape.

Before joining Intercept Music, Jesse held key positions with Virgin Music Group, Lyric Financial, EMI/Capitol, and UMG/PolyGram, where he built a reputation for bridging creative talent and business opportunity. Over his career, he’s collaborated with major artists including Stephen Marley, DJ Premier, Ice Cube, Tyrese, and E-40. A passionate advocate for artist empowerment, Jesse continues to shape new pathways for independent creators—helping them grow their audiences, own their work, and build sustainable careers in the global music industry.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN INDIAN HALL OF FAME

“For many years, I felt there were various resources and facilities for learning about Native Americans from the “old times,” it is difficult to find an accurate and comprehensive source to learn about more contemporary Native Americans. America and its Native American people need a place to honor and commemorate the significant contributions and achievements of more recent historical and contemporary Native Americans. The major focus of the Hall of Fame will be from the Civil War period up until the present day. This time frame was chosen because the Civil War was a milestone event in Native American history in a unique and “modern” sense because Natives fought on both sides of that national conflict. The National Native American Hall of Fame will help people understand how Native Americans overcame the hopelessness of early reservations, and the trauma of Indian boarding schools, poverty, discrimination, racism, and the cultural divide to not only adapt but, in many instances, achieve greatness,” states Shield.

CONTACT

WEBSITE: ⁠www.nativehalloffame.org⁠

EMAIL: ⁠info@nativehalloffame.org⁠

PHONE: 406-590-1745

Today get ready for part 1 with James Parker Shield, founder and CEO of the National Native American Hall of Fame. A proud Little Shell Chippewa, Shield has dedicated his life to honoring Indigenous excellence—transforming a vision into a national institution celebrating Native leaders, artists, and trailblazers. From journalism and public service to building the Hall of Fame, he continues to uplift stories that inspire Native communities across the country.

ABOUT JAMES

James Parker Shield is the founder of the National Native American Hall of Fame, an organization dedicated to honoring the achievements, leadership, and cultural impact of Native American trailblazers. A citizen of the Little Shell Band of Chippewa Indians of Montana, Shield has spent decades advocating for Native visibility and recognition across the United States. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to elevating Indigenous voices and preserving the legacies of those who have shaped Indian Country.

Under his leadership, the National Native American Hall of Fame has grown into a respected, nationally recognized institution, celebrating leaders in the arts, governance, activism, education, athletics, and more. Shield’s vision has helped ensure that Native heroes—past and present—receive the honor and historical acknowledgement they deserve.

Through annual induction ceremonies and educational programs, the Hall of Fame is building a lasting archive for future generations. Beyond the Hall of Fame, Shield is widely known as a community leader, advocate, and storyteller. His career includes work in media, cultural preservation, and policy engagement, always with a focus on expanding opportunities and visibility for Native people. Today, he continues to champion Indigenous excellence and inspire communities through his unwavering dedication to honoring Native history and shaping its future.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN INDIAN HALL OF FAME

“For many years, I felt there were various resources and facilities for learning about Native Americans from the “old times,” it is difficult to find an accurate and comprehensive source to learn about more contemporary Native Americans. America and its Native American people need a place to honor and commemorate the significant contributions and achievements of more recent historical and contemporary Native Americans. The major focus of the Hall of Fame will be from the Civil War period up until the present day. This time frame was chosen because the Civil War was a milestone event in Native American history in a unique and “modern” sense because Natives fought on both sides of that national conflict. The National Native American Hall of Fame will help people understand how Native Americans overcame the hopelessness of early reservations, and the trauma of Indian boarding schools, poverty, discrimination, racism, and the cultural divide to not only adapt but, in many instances, achieve greatness,” states Shield.

CONTACT

WEBSITE: www.nativehalloffame.org
EMAIL: info@nativehalloffame.org
PHONE: 406-590-1745

Today we welcome Dana Solomon, an award-winning filmmaker and actor from the Sagkeeng First Nation. Dana is making waves at Toronto International Film Festival 2025, both starring in Blood Lines, a moving story of Métis identity and family, and premiering her own short film Niimi, about an Anishinaabe ballerina’s healing journey. Dana brings bold storytelling, cultural strength, and Indigenous representation to the screen.
Dana Solomon – Bio
Dana Solomon is a Canadian filmmaker and actor of Anishinaabe and Afro-Guyanese heritage from Sagkeeng First Nation. A dancer turned storyteller, she began her training at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School and later earned a BFA in Dance from York University. Her work blends movement, resilience, and cultural identity into powerful narratives.
At the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF 2025), Dana is making history with two premieres:
Blood Lines (Centrepiece Program) – Dana stars as Beatrice, a Métis woman navigating love, family, and belonging in Gail Maurice’s new feature.

Niimi (Short Cuts Program) – Dana’s own short film as writer/director, telling the story of an Anishinaabe ballerina overcoming trauma and finding healing through dance.

Her career bridges community cultural work, acting, and filmmaking. She has appeared in hit series like Anne with an E, Heartland, and Diggstown, and now steps into the spotlight as both actor and director. Dana’s voice as a queer Indigenous filmmaker brings fresh representation to the screen, exploring identity, resilience, and the transformative power of art.
Contact Dana directly on her Instagram www.instagram.com/dana.solomon
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For nearly two decades, we've been there for you, Visit us www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/make-a-donation and be there for Us! Indigenous in Music and Arts has been celebrating Native voices through radio, art, and cultural education. 🌎✨ With your support, we can continue to spotlight Indigenous musicians, bring Native art to communities, and inspire future generations. Every dollar matters! 🌐 Donate today at www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/make-a-donation

Joining us today is Brad Pine, the creative force behind Waboos, RezFox, Tomahawk141 and the entire Etribe digital ecosystem. Brad is transforming how Indigenous people connect, promote their businesses, and share their culture through technology. His mission is simple but powerful: build Indigenous-owned digital tools that strengthen our economies, preserve our identity, and invite the world to experience the beauty of our culture with respect. We’re thrilled to have him on the show today to talk about his vision, his work, and the future of Indigenous-led digital innovation.

ABOUT BRAD PINE

Brad Pine is an Ojibway entrepreneur, digital innovator, and the founder of Waboos.ca and the Etribe Media Network, based in Garden River First Nation in Ontario, Canada. A longtime advocate for Indigenous digital sovereignty, Brad has dedicated his career to building online tools, directories, and mobile apps that empower Indigenous entrepreneurs and connect communities across Turtle Island. Through platforms such as Waboos, RezFox, Tomahawk141, and Healers on Demand, Brad’s work provides Indigenous-owned businesses greater visibility while offering non-Indigenous audiences meaningful, respectful access to Indigenous culture, tourism, and knowledge.

Driven by a mission to create Indigenous-led technology for a new generation, Brad and his Ojibway team focus on developing culturally grounded digital spaces designed to uplift Indigenous economies and strengthen community connections. His leadership has made Waboos one of the most promising Indigenous business discovery platforms in Canada. We were honored to welcome Brad as a guest on Indigenous in the News, where he shared insights into his digital vision, his community-driven approach, and the future of Indigenous innovation.

ABOUT ETRIBE NETWORK

Under his stage name, Pony Man, Pony leads Zia Star Records, a platform amplifying Indigenous artists. His latest single, Shake the Tail Feather (2025), is a vibrant anthem blending
Navajo-inspired rhythms with themes of joy and unity, accompanied by a stunning music video
set in a desert powwow arena. As Executive Producer, Pony champions artists like My Love Red Hand and Eddie Moonville, driving a movement of cultural pride and creative innovation.

Waboos.ca or Waboos is a Indigenous owned company located on the Garden River First Nation, Ontario, Canada. Our Ojibway Team prides itself on supplying the tools for our Indigenous people to promote their businesses. Our suite of Websites and apps are Native specific or Indigenous specific content aimed at providing a access point for Non Natives or Non Indigenous users to learn and experience our beautiful culture. More Native Specific, Indigenous specific content website/apps from the Etribe Network are; www.tomahawk141.com “Splitting the Airwaves Right Down the Middle Between Mainstream and The Rez” playing equal parts Indigenous artists and mainstream Non-Indigenous artists. www.rezfox.ca “Live, Love, Learn” Our 3L vision Live life to the fullest, Love unconditionally and Learn about other Cultures. Rezfox is a place of learning, a place to exchange ideas, a place to maybe even find love. www.healersondemand.com a place where “Seekers” can find alternative medicines from “Healers” globally.

ABOUT WABOOS

Waboos.ca or Waboos is a Indigenous owned company located on the Garden River First Nation, Ontario, Canada. Our Ojibway Team prides itself on supplying the tools for our Indigenous people to promote their businesses. Our suite of Websites and apps are Native specific or Indigenous specific content aimed at providing a access point for Non Natives or Non Indigenous users to learn and experience our beautiful culture.

“C. Pony Vigil: Reimagining the Future of Indigenous Media - Part II"

“Today on Indigenous in the News, we are honored to welcome back C. Pony ‘Pony Man’ Vigil, a Navajo filmmaker, producer, and innovator who bridges Indigenous storytelling with the future of technology. From working on major films like The Avengers and Cowboys & Aliens to pioneering ‘Indigenous AI’ as a cultural and ethical framework for media, Pony brings a unique perspective on creativity, community, and the role of Indigenous voices in global storytelling.”

ABOUT PONY MAN

Film and TelevisionPony’s extensive film career spans roles as a lighting technician, director, and producer on major Hollywood productions, including Wild Hogs (2006), Terminator Salvation (2008), Cowboys and Aliens (2010), and The Avengers (2011). His technical expertise shines in roles like RiggingElectrician, Lamp Operator, and Best Boy Electric on projects such as Breaking Bad (2008), 3:10 to Yuma (2006), and In Plain Sight (2007). Early on, he pioneered virtual reality R&D for TheLawnmower Man (1991-1992) with Digital Media in Santa Cruz, CA, contributing to modern 4D infrastructure.

As a producer, Pony led Discover Navajo at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, managing multimedia cultural production and tribal relations. He produced and directed musicvideos and public service announcements for Indigenous communities in Hawaii (1999-2001)and served as Producer/Lighting Director for After After Party with Steven Quezada (2011-2012) and Buffalo Thunder Casino TV spots (2010-2011). From 2017 to 2020, Pony was ExecutiveProducer and Content Delivery Producer for NativeFlix and Indigenous Streaming Service, where he spearheaded Ntv Native Music Television, showcasing 300 Indigenous musicians and filmmakers in a groundbreaking platform for Native voices.

MUSIC AND ZIA STAR RECORDS

Under his stage name, Pony Man, Pony leads Zia Star Records, a platform amplifyingIndigenous artists. His latest single, Shake the Tail Feather (2025), is a vibrant anthem blending Navajo-inspired rhythms with themes of joy and unity, accompanied by a stunning music video set in a desert powwow arena. As Executive Producer, Pony champions artists like My Love RedHand and Eddie Moonville, driving a movement of cultural pride and creative innovation.

CONTACT

WEBSITE: ⁠www.nativehalloffame.org

⁠EMAIL: ⁠indigenousintel@icloud.com

⁠FOLLOW: ⁠https://ntv.life⁠

PRODUCTION: ⁠https://thunderbirdgroup.co⁠

Get ready for two shows, part 1 and part 2. “Our guest today is Pony Man, an Executive Producer, AI content specialist, and cultural advocate. His journey has taken him from lighting and production roles on blockbuster films to creating music videos, and Indigenous-focused digital media. He’s now exploring how ancestral knowledge and cutting-edge AI can merge to shape the future of Indigenous film-making and storytelling. We’re excited to share his story and vision.”

ABOUT PONY MAN

Film and Television
Pony’s extensive film career spans roles as a lighting technician, director, and producer on major Hollywood productions, including Wild Hogs (2006), Terminator Salvation (2008), Cowboys and Aliens (2010), and The Avengers (2011). His technical expertise shines in roles like Rigging
Electrician, Lamp Operator, and Best Boy Electric on projects such as Breaking Bad (2008), 3:10 to Yuma (2006), and In Plain Sight (2007). Early on, he pioneered virtual reality R&D for The
Lawnmower Man (1991-1992) with Digital Media in Santa Cruz, CA, contributing to modern 4D infrastructure.

As a producer, Pony led Discover Navajo at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, managing multimedia cultural production and tribal relations. He produced and directed music
videos and public service announcements for Indigenous communities in Hawaii (1999-2001)
and served as Producer/Lighting Director for After After Party with Steven Quezada (2011-2012) and Buffalo Thunder Casino TV spots (2010-2011). From 2017 to 2020, Pony was Executive
Producer and Content Delivery Producer for NativeFlix and Indigenous Streaming Service, where he spearheaded Ntv Native Music Television, showcasing 300 Indigenous musicians and filmmakers in a groundbreaking platform for Native voices.

MUSIC AND ZIA STAR RECORDS

Under his stage name, Pony Man, Pony leads Zia Star Records, a platform amplifying
Indigenous artists. His latest single, Shake the Tail Feather (2025), is a vibrant anthem blending Navajo-inspired rhythms with themes of joy and unity, accompanied by a stunning music video set in a desert powwow arena. As Executive Producer, Pony champions artists like My Love Red
Hand and Eddie Moonville, driving a movement of cultural pride and creative innovation.

CONTACT

WEBSITE: www.nativehalloffame.org
EMAIL: indigenousintel@icloud.com
FOLLOW: https://ntv.life
PRODUCTION: https://thunderbirdgroup.co

“Joining us today is Jesse Flores, Vice President of Artist and Label Partnerships at Intercept Music. A veteran music executive, Jesse has worked with legends from Ice Cube to Stephen Marley, building careers and global audiences. Proudly half Puerto Rican and half Mexican American, he brings both deep industry expertise and cultural passion to empowering independent artists—especially in the thriving hip hop scene.”

ABOUT JESSE

Jesse Flores is an accomplished music industry executive with more than two decades of experience in artist development, label relations, and business strategy. He currently serves as Vice President of Artist and Label Partnerships at Intercept Music, where he leads initiatives to empower independent musicians and labels through innovative distribution, marketing, and monetization tools. Flores brings a forward-thinking approach to connecting artists with the digital resources they need to thrive in today’s evolving music landscape.

Before joining Intercept Music, Jesse held key positions with Virgin Music Group, Lyric Financial, EMI/Capitol, and UMG/PolyGram, where he built a reputation for bridging creative talent and business opportunity. Over his career, he’s collaborated with major artists including Stephen Marley, DJ Premier, Ice Cube, Tyrese, and E-40. A passionate advocate for artist empowerment, Jesse continues to shape new pathways for independent creators—helping them grow their audiences, own their work, and build sustainable careers in the global music industry.

After you’ve created your music with the help of band members, songwriters, engineers, producers, and graphic artists, you need to master social media marketing, distribution, playlists, press releases, reviews, online advertising, licensing, and merchandising. This can be overwhelming, and many artists settle for doing only a few of the things that they need to break out. Our goal is to change this paradigm. All the technologies an artist needs to distribute and market their craft should exist in one place. We believe in leveraging technology to do the majority of the work to keep it simple.

The music industry is a fragmented marketplace. Many services must come together for your success. If you have a label backing you, that’s easy. The label does everything, and you focus on your music in exchange for a big chunk of profit. However, if you’re on your own the learning curve is steep.

Our software and services are built on proven processes utilized by established acts and key industry leaders. They will continue to evolve as the music industry does. Intercept Music is an unbeatable suite of artist-focused services backed by people responsible for millions of dollars in record sales.

WEBSITE: interceptmusic.com
EMAIL: jesse.flores@interceptmusic.com
PHONE: 415.226.9959

Donate today at www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/make-a-donation

ABOUT INTERCEPT MUSICCONTACTMAKE A DONATIONFor nearly two decades, we’ve been there for you, Visit us!

Sept 28th "Carrying the Torch with Liz Lovejoy Brown: Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte’s Legacy Lives On"

Joining us today on Indigenous in the News is Elizabeth Lovejoy Brown, Executive Director of the Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte Center and Division Head of Human Services at Nebraska Indian Community College. A proud member of the Omaha Tribe, Liz brings nearly two decades of experience in Native health, social work, and community leadership. She’s here to share her vision for healing, empowerment, and cultural revitalization.

ABOUT LIZ LOVEJOY BROWN
Elizabeth “Liz” Lovejoy Brown is a distinguished member of the Inkesabe Clan of the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska. She brings a wealth of expertise to her new role as Executive Director. She’s a highly accomplished professional with a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa and 17 years of experience in social work, financial and grant management, and program delivery. Her leadership extends to managing non-profit organizations, backed by extensive knowledge in Tribal Finance and accounting, Contract 648 Funding, 2 CFR 200, and tribal grant management.Liz’s dynamic background uniquely qualifies her for her role as Executive Director. Her expertise in tribal finance and accounting, background in grant management, advocacy for Native American youth, and passion for the betterment of her people demonstrate her commitment to the mission of the Picotte Center. Expressing her dedication, Liz states, “I’ve admired Susan LaFlesche Picotte since childhood. Her passion to help and provide for our people has been a role model for me. I share the same passion and am committed to making a positive impact in our community.” Under Liz’s proficient leadership, The Picotte Center advances toward a future where the historic building stands restored, embodying resilience, cultural preservation, and community vitality.

ABOUT THE PICOTTE CENTER
The Picotte Center is a non-profit organization in Walthill, Nebraska, dedicated to revitalizing the historic Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte Hospital. Poised to begin the final phase of restoration, The Picotte Center aims to create a dynamic hub that blends social and medical services, fosters small businesses, showcases a Native American Umonhon museum, promotes community engagement, and offers crucial regional support.

ABOUT DR. SUSAN LAFLESCHE PICOTTE
Born in a tipi in the remote Nebraska Territory during the waning weeks of the Civil War in 1865, Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte was the youngest child of Chief Joseph La Flesche (Iron Eye), the last formal chief of the Omaha Tribe and his wife Mary (One Woman). Omaha, meaning “to go against the current,” was the name given because the tribe had gone up river, migrating to the Nebraska Territory. It was a fitting attachment for Susan, who would spend her life going “against the current” and in doing so, become America’s first Native American physician.
Susan loved her people. Growing up on the Omaha reservation she not only learned the customs, language, dances and songs, but also saw the poor conditions her people lived in – and the impact it had on their health. She realized that access to adequate medical care was difficult, if not impossible. As a child, she witnessed a sick, elderly native woman die when the local doctor refused to visit her saying, “it was only an Indian, it did not matter.” This defining moment motivated Susan to become a doctor for all people, Indian and white.
CONTACT
WEBSITE: www.picottecenter.org
EMAIL: director@picottecenter.org
PHONE: 531-254-0625