Monday, August 11, 2014 – Natives Aging Gracefully
What does it mean to age gracefully? Does it mean looking 35-years-old when you’re actually 50? Aging gracefully may be skin deep to some folks, but for others, it means to age in a healthy way by staying fit, having a sound mind and having a strong spiritual connection. According to health advocates who work with elders becoming a leader in the community is another way elders are making the best of their years. We’ll learn more about how you can age gracefully and what things may be preventing you from aging in a healthy way. Our guests include Flo Jorgenson (Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) Activity Coordinator/Santa Clara Pueblo Senior Center and Jordan Lewis (Aleut) Assistant Professor/University of Washington.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014- Inserting Native Nations into the Comics
Consider Hulk, Magneto, Spider-Man and Superman. What’s missing from this lineup? A Native American. Sure there’s Starhaven, Black Crow, Danielle Moonstar and Warpath but, Native characters don’t really get the role when it comes to saving the earth from total destruction in mainstream comics and graphic novels. That’s one reason why Native graphic artists are starting to pen their own Indigenous characters with familiar Native features and backgrounds. Many Native comic masters believe it’s Natives who have to step up to represent in the comic world for different reasons from portraying a positive image to inspiring Native generations. What are the powers of the comics? What’s your favorite character? If you were a comic superhero, what powers would you have and for what reason?
Wednesday, August 13, 2014 – Native Newsworthy
Today we are jumping into the news headlines to explore the type of coverage Native nations are receiving. We’ll be joined by several media professionals to hear more about the stories they’ve covered and ones that are down the pipeline. The year is more than half gone and we want to hear from you about the stories connected to Native America that really caught your eye so far. Are there other stories that you feel did not receive a lot of attention but should have? What news stories would you like to hear more about or perhaps hear with a Native focus? Guests include Jodi Lee Spotted Bear (Mandan & Hidatsa) Executive Director/Fort Berthold Communication Enterprises, Jason Begay (Navajo) Native Educator/University of Montana School of Journalism, Ke`opulaulani Reelitz (Kanaka Maoli) Editor of Mana Magazine and Hansi Lo Wang Reporter with NPR’s Code Switch.
Thursday, August 14, 2014 – The Equation for Happiness
Researchers at the University of College London recently published a study suggesting they have a mathematical equation that can predict happiness. They found that lowering expectations can make you happier. Do you think we can really find happiness using math? What makes you happy? Some find happiness in many different ways, including family, work or even material items. Have you found a formula for happiness? Has it changed over the years? Have you really thought about what it takes to be truly happy? Guests include D.J. Eagle Bear Vanas (Odawa Nation), author and motivational storyteller.
Get a head start on this conversation and send your happiness formula to comments@nativeamericacalling.com
Friday, August 15, 2014 – Oral Health and General Health
We all know we need to brush our teeth twice a day and floss like we mean business. Beyond keeping our teeth clean and healthy, some research suggests there are links between oral health and preventing heart disease and other health issues. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Indians and Alaska Natives experience high rates of oral health disparities. Are you concerned about the connections between oral health and general health? Are you able to see the dentist regularly? Is access an issue?
Native America Calling is a national call-in program that invites guests and listeners to join a dialogue about current events, music, arts, entertainment and culture.
The program is hosted by Tara Gatewood (Isleta Pueblo) and airs live each weekday from 1-2 pm Eastern.
Join the conversation by calling 1-800-996-2848.