Hidden Heritage

In this series of Hidden Heritage "The Book", host Paul LaRoche tackles the enriching yet complex process of meeting his biological family and embracing his Native American heritage. This chapter, titled "A Glimmer of Hope," explores the nuances of identity and the challenges that come without a quick fix for his life's problems. As Paul transitions from a stable job in marketing to pursuing his p...

In this episode of Hidden Heritage "The Book, Chapter 6", host Paul LaRoche takes us on an enlightening journey through the small reservation town of Lower Brule, SD sharing stories and insights from the heart of Native America. Join Paul and his new biological family as they explore the vibrant community, unveiling the rich tapestry of culture, tradition, and history that defines this unique plac...

Join Paul LaRoche as he narrates chapter 5 of the book "Hidden Heritage" and explores his ancestral roots in this latest episode. Journey through time with tales of the Lakota people during the 1800s, witnessing their rich cultural heritage, struggles, and resilience. This episode dives into the Lakota’s profound relationship with the Great Spirit and the land, revealing how these stories intertwi...

Join host Paul LaRoche as he narrates Chapter 4 of his life's story, 'A Special Gift,' from the Hidden Heritage book by Barbara Marshak. The episode begins with a traditional Thanksgiving morning, illustrating the warmth of familial bonds and shared stories. Paul listens to his daughter Nicole's vivid dream, sparking a deep connection to their Native American roots. As the day unfolds, the family...

In this episode, join Paul LaRoche as he embarks on a heartfelt journey to uncover his hidden heritage in this captivating episode of Hidden Heritage. Accompanied by his family, Paul eagerly anticipates meeting his newly discovered brother and sister during a Thanksgiving weekend reunion on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation of SD. This episode dives deep into the emotional complexities of a...

In this fascinating episode of Hidden Heritage, join host Paul LaRoche as we delve into the rich tapestry of Native American history across southwest Minnesota, northwest Iowa, and southeast South Dakota. Discover how the land's indigenous nations, including the Dakota and Lakota, have maintained deep-rooted connections to the prairies and waterways that define the region. We'll explore sacred sit...

In the second chapter of "Hidden Heritage," we get a deeper sense of the life of Paul LaRoche, as written by Barbara Marshak and narrated by Paul himself. The episode explores the struggles Paul faces while living a life devoid of passion and music, conforming to societal norms of career and family. However, an emptiness persists, leading him to consider searching for his biological family. With t...

Welcome to the new chapter of "Hidden Heritage," where we delve into the story of Paul LaRoche, an adopted child on a journey to reconnect with his Lakota roots and explore his cultural identity through music. In this episode, Paul narrates the first chapter of his book, revealing his childhood as Paul Summers, the son of Clarence and Irma in the idyllic town of Worthington, MN. The story explores...

Join host Paul LaRoche as he takes you on a remarkable journey through his life and cultural heritage with the announcement of the podcast series "Hidden Heritage," based on the book written by Barbara Marshak. This special series will explore the transformative story of LaRoche's self-discovery, cultural reconciliation, and the founding of the music group Rulé. Experience the deep connection and...

In this episode of Hidden Heritage, we embark on a poignant journey of rich traditions of the Lakota people, focusing on the Winter Count Blanket, a historical record celebrated for its storytelling and cultural significance. Join us as we explore how this age-old tradition reflects events that shaped the community, offering insights into the Lakota way of life and their view of time as a continuo...

Join Paul LaRoche as he embarks on a deeply personal journey to uncover his Native American roots and the transformative power of music. Hidden for years, his connection to the Lakota heritage was unveiled, leading to a family reunion and a cultural awakening. In 1994 Paul became an enrolled member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of SD.  Returning to music after a 7 year hiatus Paul named his new g...

Join Paul LaRoche in this Holiday Episode of Hidden Heritage called "The Lakota Star Quilt".  Travel back to December of 1993 when Paul and his family spent their first Christmas on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation.  They were gifted a beautiful Lakota Star Quilt that Holiday season but it took years before they understood the true significance of that special honoring.   For the Lakota, t...

Join Paul LaRoche as he recounts his emotional reunion with his Lakota heritage. Adopted at birth, Paul journeys from a small farming community to embracing his tribal roots on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. After discovering his adoption papers, he finds joy and connection with his newfound family, building bridges between his past and present. This episode explores the unique experien...

In this episode, Paul LaRoche shares a deeply personal journey from his adoption at birth, to discovering his true Lakota roots. Raised unaware of his Native American heritage, Paul's life took a dramatic turn when his wife uncovered adoption papers, sparking a five-year journey to find his biological family. This episode goes into the complexities of identity, the power of family, and the remarka...

In this insightful episode of "Hidden Heritage," Paul LaRoche shares his personal journey of rediscovery and cultural connection, unfolding the seven fundamental virtues that define the Lakota people. Adopted at birth and raised in a different world, Paul's story is one of two worlds colliding — a testament to the resilience and grace of heritage. Through the wisdom of fortitude, respect, compassi...

In this compelling episode of "Hidden Heritage," Paul LaRoche explores the sacred Lakota tradition of the Hembleciya, or Vision Quest, a powerful spiritual journey of self-discovery and communication with the Great Spirit. Paul explains the significance of this ancient ceremony, detailing its role in guiding individuals through life transitions and helping them find clarity and purpose. Listeners...

Join Paul LaRoche in this compelling episode of "Hidden Heritage" as he shares his journey of discovering his true American Indian roots and the profound stories that emerge from it. Adopted at birth and raised away from his Native American heritage, Paul embarks on a quest that leads to a heartfelt reunion with his Lakota family. This Veterans Day tribute pays special recognition to Native Americ...

Join us on a fascinating journey to Mitchell, South Dakota, as we explore the history of the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village. Situated on a six-acre site overlooking Lake Mitchell, this archaeological site offers a glimpse into life over a thousand years ago. Discover how this community of a few hundred people thrived by cultivating familiar crops like corn, squash, and beans, alongside less c...

In this compelling episode of Hidden Heritage, host Paul LaRoche shares his personal journey of discovering his Native American roots after being adopted at birth and raised in a small Minnesota farming community. Uncover the emotional and spiritual quest that led Paul to reunite with his Lakota family on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. Explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating t...

In this week's episode of Hidden Heritage, host Paul LaRoche takes us on a journey to Hayward, Wisconsin, to uncover the inspiring life story of Dave Anderson, better known as "Famous Dave." Discover how Dave, a member of the Choctaw Chippewa Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe, turned his passion for barbecue into a nationwide sensation, defying the odds and embodying the American dream. Join us on Dave...

In this episode of Hidden Heritage host Paul LaRoche highlights the vibrant world of Native American musicians and introduces us to Dennis Tate Navequaya, a traditional flute player with a rich musical lineage from the Comanche tribe of Oklahoma. Dennis shares the fascinating history of the Native American flute and the significant role his grandfather, the renowned Doc Tate Navequaya, played in r...

In this compelling episode of Hidden Heritage, host Paul LaRoche sits down with Michael Roberts, a distinguished men's fancy dancer and member of the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations, to explore the rich history and evolution of the men's Native American fancy dance. Michael shares captivating stories of cultural exchange, historical traditions, and the significance of dance regalia. He recounts the...

In this captivating episode of "Hidden Heritage," we delve into the world of Brulé, a unique performance group blending traditional Native American music and dance with contemporary sounds. Host Paul introduces us to his daughter Nicole, the lead instrumentalist on contemporary flute, and Lowery Begay, their talented hoop dancer and traditional wood flute player. Together, they explore the signifi...

Join Paul LaRoche in this captivating episode of "Hidden Heritage" titled "Native Wisdom," as he delves into the rich cultural practices of the Lakota. This episode features an intimate conversation with Charles Quinn, a spiritual elder from the Lower Brule Sioux tribe who shares insights into the profound and transformative Lakota ceremonies. In mainstream America, rituals like personal retreats...

In this episode of Hidden Heritage, host Paul LaRoche examines the significance of Native American Day, observed on October 14th this year. Paul explores the day as a moment for reflection on America's history and the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities. The episode looks at both the positive impacts and criticisms of Native American Day, highlighting its role in promoting accurate histori...