🧵 “Quilting isn’t just for old people—it’s for anyone with a creative spirit and a story to tell.” — Miracle Seminole

✨ “Each quilt carries prayers, patience, and the love of our ancestors.” — Cherokee Brown

In this heartfelt episode of Winds of Change, host Emy DiGrappa sits down with Cherokee Brown and her daughter, Miracle Seminole—both enrolled members of the Northern Arapaho Tribe—to explore how quilting, creativity, and cultural tradition serve as powerful tools for healing, self-expression, and community revitalization.

Cherokee shares her personal journey into star quilt making, inspired by her grandmother’s love for arts and crafts and guided by a deep spiritual connection to her ancestors. As a mother, she passed down not just the skill but the soul of quilting to Miracle, who found strength and purpose in the tradition after surviving a life-altering experience. Together, they speak openly about grief, recovery, intergenerational trauma, and the importance of reclaiming cultural identity through Indigenous art.

Miracle, now a rising quilt artist herself, envisions a future where quilting isn't just a family legacy but a way to uplift her community—one stitch at a time. From smudging rituals to chakra designs and bold aspirations of launching a community sewing space, this conversation is full of inspiration, resilience, and hope.

Whether you're Native or non-Native, an artist or admirer, this episode offers a powerful reminder: creativity can be medicine, and tradition can be revolutionary.

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As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

Stay in the middle of the road and plow as much as you can. Stay out of the furrows and the ruts on the left and the right. And if you're damned if you do and damned if you don't, then do. – Alan Simpson

In this episode of Winds of Change, Wyoming Humanities pays tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of former U.S. Senator Alan K. Simpson of Wyoming. Known for his sharp wit, bipartisan approach, and unwavering commitment to public service, Simpson left an indelible mark on both his home state and the nation.

This episode offers a glimpse into the mind of a seasoned statesman, providing both historical context and forward-looking insights.

A Statesman's Journey

Join me as I revisit a candid conversation with Senator Simpson, where he shares:

• His motivation for entering politics and passion for legislation

• The importance of maintaining a sense of humor in public life

• His perspective on the current state of American politics

Wisdom for the Next Generation

Simpson offers invaluable advice for young people interested in politics:

• The critical role of active participation in democracy

• The importance of staying centered and avoiding extremes

• Why engagement at the local level matters

Tackling Modern Political Challenges

Simpson doesn't shy away from addressing current issues:

• His concerns about money's influence in politics

• Thoughts on campaign finance reform

• The need for bipartisanship and compromise

Learn More About Alan Simpson’s Life

• https://cowboystatedaily.com/2025/03/18/joan-barron-alan-simpson-grew-to-be-a-statesman/

• https://www.jhnewsandguide.com/news/state/sen-al-simpson-93-had-wit-deep-jackson-roots/article_74b8c132-01b9-11f0-b54d-9f59e5783269.html

• https://apnews.com/article/senator-alan-simpson-dies-faf4826aba710283e4f4e6581082a41f

• https://oilcity.news/wyoming/2025/03/16/photos-alan-k-simpson-a-life-in-photos/

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• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/

• www.ThinkWY.org

• https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy

• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy

• Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe!

As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

I believe that inside of every single person, especially. Especially when they're in their darkest times, there's a little voice in their head that says, I want to be more, I want to do more, I want to say more, and I want to live more. - Norberto Orellana

In this episode of Winds of Change, I sit down with Norberto Orellana, a motivating individual who has challenged himself to become an entrepreneur. Norberto's journey from homelessness and abuse to founding his own company in Gillette, Wyoming. We love hearing the diversity of stories and voices in this series of Entrepreneurs, innovators and creatives of Wyoming!

Norberto shares his transition from pursuing a Ph.D. in chemistry to becoming a business leader and motivational speaker.

We discuss:

• His early experiences with homelessness and poverty

• The pivotal moment on a bus that changed his perspective

• How he became a three-time TEDx speaker

Overcoming Adversity: Despite facing numerous challenges, including cerebral palsy and a difficult upbringing, Norberto discusses:

• The importance of positive audacity and lifelong learning

• How he balances his healthcare leadership role with entrepreneurship

• Norberto's mission is to help others tap into their inner strength and achieve their goals

• Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

Resources:

• To learn more about Norberto go to Norberto Orellana Enterprises.

• For more information about the Wyoming Humanities Council and their initiatives, go to thinkwy.org to explore their programs, events, and resources.

Follow Us on These Channels:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/

• www.ThinkWY.org

• https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy

• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy

• Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe!

As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!