In this episode, we interview Lendrick Lomayestewa, a traditional knowledge holder from Hopi who reflects on the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in his community and how he responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by turning to traditional knowledge and cultural practices. When tribal leadership lacked an emergency plan, Lendrick and community organization members developed a comprehensive strategy rooted in Hopi teachings, including food distribution, medicine, and community care. Despite being rejected by tribal authorities, their efforts highlighted the resilience and relevance of cultural wisdom in modern crises.

This podcast shares Indigenous stories of resilience and mental wellbeing during and after COVID-19. Hear from first responders, educators, traditional knowledge holders, and recovery community members as they reflect on challenges, lessons, and culturally grounded healing. Each episode also highlights local resources for Indigenous communities in northern Arizona.

Created by NAU’s Center for Community Health and Engaged Research (CHER) with Hopi and Navajo Tribal members. Funded by Project HOPE.

We would like to acknowledge Dr. Darold Joseph for sharing his beautiful flute recordings with us. It brought a meaningful dimension to the podcast and his artistry is sincerely appreciated.

Resources: https://linktr.ee/voicesnativenations

In this episode, we interview De Lyssa Begay, an educator who reflects on the profound challenges and lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, likening the experience to the uncertainty of their first year teaching. She shares how empathy, compassion, and a deep connection to land, tradition, and community helped ground them and support their students through unprecedented times. Personal stories of resilience, loss, and the importance of showing up highlight the enduring strength of Indigenous values and intergenerational wisdom.

This podcast shares Indigenous stories of resilience and mental wellbeing during and after COVID-19. Hear from first responders, educators, traditional knowledge holders, and recovery community members as they reflect on challenges, lessons, and culturally grounded healing. Each episode also highlights local resources for Indigenous communities in northern Arizona.

Created by NAU’s Center for Community Health and Engaged Research (CHER) with Hopi and Navajo Tribal members. Funded by Project HOPE.

We would like to acknowledge Dr. Darold Joseph for sharing his beautiful flute recordings with us. It brought a meaningful dimension to the podcast and his artistry is sincerely appreciated.

Resources: https://linktr.ee/voicesnativenations

In this heartfelt episode, Tiffany Tracy, an educator from the Navajo Nation reflects on the profound lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, from the challenges of remote teaching to the importance of communication. She shares how the crisis reshaped her understanding of learning, community support, and the emotional toll of isolation and loss. Despite overwhelming stress and limited resources, her dedication to her students and their families sustained her through the toughest moments.

This podcast shares Indigenous stories of resilience and mental wellbeing during and after COVID-19. Hear from first responders, educators, traditional knowledge holders, and recovery community members as they reflect on challenges, lessons, and culturally grounded healing. Each episode also highlights local resources for Indigenous communities in northern Arizona.

Created by NAU’s Center for Community Health and Engaged Research (CHER) with Hopi and Navajo Tribal members. Funded by Project HOPE.

We would like to acknowledge Dr. Darold Joseph for sharing his beautiful flute recordings with us. It brought a meaningful dimension to the podcast and his artistry is sincerely appreciated.

Resources: https://linktr.ee/voicesnativenations