Lorraine kicks off the season by welcoming listeners to The BAGO Mic, a space where student voice takes center stage and community pride shines. The fifth graders from Mr. Kleve’s class, known as Mr. Funky Teacher, are here to share their stories straight from the heart of Winnebago, Nebraska. This podcast gives students a real mic, real voices, and a real audience as they talk about their schools, families, and cultures. They highlight what excites them, the challenges they face, and the importance of honoring their elders while celebrating Native voices. This episode reminds listeners that every voice matters in the BAGO Nation.

Lorraine also emphasizes that The BAGO Mic is powered by the voices of Winnebago Public Schools students. Broadcasting from the heart of the Winnebago Native American Reservation, the show celebrates culture, community, and the pride students carry for where they come from. The episode brings forward their stories, dreams, and lessons as they navigate life as young leaders. It’s a platform where youth speak boldly, honoring their heritage while sharing the realities of their daily challenges and triumphs.

As the students share, they dive into what it means to be part of the BAGO Nation. They talk about personal experiences, the value of culture, and the strength found in community support. The tone is warm and authentic, filled with humor and connection, making it feel like a conversation with friends. The BAGO Mic becomes more than a podcast—it becomes a movement encouraging students to speak up, celebrate identity, and carry their stories forward. Lorraine closes by reminding listeners that every story matters and contributes to the rich tapestry of their community.

Takeaways:

• The BAGO Mic is all about giving students a real voice and platform to share.

• Mr. Kleve's fifth-grade class from Winnebago is leading the way with their stories.

• Students highlight their culture, community, and what makes Winnebago special.

• The podcast honors elders and celebrates Native voices.

• Students share school experiences, their learning journeys, and choices they face as young leaders.

• Every episode of The BAGO Mic aims to connect, uplift, and celebrate BAGO Nation.

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Xailei opens up about the journey of finding her true self. She shares how experiences shape who she is, touching on the importance of confidence, kindness, and staying true to yourself. The conversation flows through fun topics like her love for riding horses and her dream of becoming a horse trainer, while also highlighting her desire to help others and make the world better. From friendships to big ideas like addressing hunger, this episode captures courage, identity, and the power of knowing who you are.

Etta and Xailei dive deeper into what makes her tick. Xailei takes pride in being thoughtful and caring, and she emphasizes how meaningful it is to help others. When talking about passions, she lights up describing her favorite moments on horseback—from the early nerves to the joy she feels now. She also shares her hopes of helping people who are homeless and making a positive impact in the world. Her honesty and heart make this conversation a powerful reminder that every voice matters.

Takeaways:

• Xailei shares how being thoughtful and caring shapes her identity and confidence.

• The conversation highlights the importance of being true to yourself and avoiding negativity.

• Xailei talks about her passion for riding horses and wanting to keep improving her skills.

• She expresses a desire to help others, showing her compassion and commitment to kindness.

• She dreams of becoming a horse trainer in the future, reflecting her love for animals.

• The discussion ends by reminding listeners that everyone's voice matters and every story counts.

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Jason opens up about the moments that helped him build pride in who he is. He talks about his love for drawing and how it defines him, saying, “If I didn’t, who would I be?” He shares his dream of becoming a vet and helping animals, highlighting his caring nature. Jason emphasizes that confidence comes from resilience, support, and believing in yourself. His story reminds listeners that everyone has a voice worth sharing and that caring for others makes a meaningful impact.

Jason, a bright and creative fifth grader, also talks about how art shapes his identity and gives him joy. He reflects on the things that make him proud, from drawing to jumping, which he sees as a metaphor for embracing life. His dream of becoming a vet shows his passion for helping animals and wanting to protect them. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the importance of self-belief and resilience, reminding listeners that confidence is something you build over time.

As the chat continues, Jason opens up about his love for animals, dinosaurs, and family. He dreams of helping animals in need and standing up against animal abuse. His stories reveal a mix of innocence, humor, and depth, offering listeners a glimpse into how a young person discovers who they are. He talks about simple joys, favorite activities, and even what scares him—spiders! His personality shines, making it clear he is not just a student but a storyteller with a bright future.

The episode ends with quickfire questions that paint a clear picture of Jason’s vibrant personality, from his favorite holiday to the people who inspire him. Listeners are left with a powerful message: your story matters, your voice matters, and you matter. Jason’s journey shows just how important it is to express yourself, care for others, and take pride in who you are becoming.

Takeaways:

• Jason emphasizes that drawing is a big part of his identity, showing how self-expression builds confidence.

• He believes helping animals is important, reflecting his caring nature and future goals.

• Resilience matters—Jason wants to grow in math this year, showing that progress takes effort.

• Family inspires Jason, especially his sister, showing how support builds self-belief.

• His message about caring for animals reminds listeners that animals have feelings and needs too.

• Jason’s journey shows how embracing who you are builds pride and confidence.