Chewing the Cud

James Floyd, former Chief of the Muscogee Nation, discusses his role with the National Parks Conservation Association, amendments to the Stigler Act, land issues, and his lifelong effort to help veterans and Mvskoke families.

Matthew Woods, founder of Front Yard Farms, talks about his personal mission to change the tide on avoidable diseases such as diabetes and promote health through agriculture and healthy eating.

Brook Bartling, Manager of the Muscogee Nation Wildlife Department, and Jesse McDermott, Wildlife Technician, join Chewing the Cud to discuss wildlife conservation, land stewardship, and turkey management during spring turkey season.

Kenzie Roberts talks food sovereignty, nonprofit work, data centers and protecting Mvskoke land, culture, and agriculture for future generations.  

Leslie Lewis, NE District 4H Specialist for Oklahoma State University, discusses 4H programming, youth camps,leadership, showing, and youth development.

Melissa Welch, FDPIR Farm Mgr discusses nutrition , FDPIR programming, farm management, and the role of traditional foodways in advancing community health and food sovereignty within the Muscogee Nation.

Bob Seebek discusses community gardening, local food access, volunteer engagement, and the impact of the Okmulgee Community Garden on education and food sovereignty.

Mekko Tyner, Dean of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Matt Yates discuss new GIS/ArcView courses, workforce development opportunities, and the continued growth of the College of the Muscogee Nation.

Tribal agriculture and policy expert Carly Hotvedt examines food sovereignty, federal–tribal agricultural law, and opportunities for strengthening Indigenous food systems. 

Mvskoke Elder and food sovereignty advocate Ben Yahola shares traditional agricultural knowledge, cultural teachings, and insights on reconnecting with land-based practices. 

Extension Educator Jill Gibbons discusses family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and the essential role of community programming in Okmulgee County. 

Riley Berry, Mvskoke Ag Producer and MCN Conservation District Commissioner, talks about the long road he traveled to become a cattle producer, his experience with the FSA loan process, Hannah Watermelons, and his newfound role as a leader in the world of tribal agriculture.”

“NRCS State Conservationist Jeanne Jasper and Assistant State Conservationist Brent Pannell discuss current conservation programs, the changing dynamics of land use, and highlight new information on regenerative agriculture.”

February 6, 2026 Show: Guest Bill Breckinridge shares hard-earned wisdom on raising Spanish goats, building a resilient homestead, and protecting Mvskoke tobacco traditions.

January 30, 2026 Show:  Leo Enlow, a Muscogee youth producer and rising FFA leader, shares his journey in livestock, showmanship, and the next generation of Native agriculture.

Roderick Dukes, USDA - NRCS Team Lead, gives insight into current and future federal cost-share programs that assist landowners who are engaged in production agriculture. 

Nico Williams, founder and director of Burning Cedar Sovereign Wellness, talks about her passion around native foods, local ingredients, and desire to create personal balance.

Trenton Kissee, Muscogee Nation Secretary of Interior of Affairs, gives a 2025 year-end update on all things agricultural at the Nation and leaves us with some nuggets to ponder on for 2026.

Travis Thompson, Muscogee Nation Citizen, talks about his passion for the outdoors, new NWTF “Rez Birds” Chapter, and his support role in Woodsman Ministries.

Jim Hall, Oklahoma Farm Bureau, discusses risk management, liability, and ag related insurance as well as the role OFB plays in shaping agriculture policy in the State of Oklahoma.

“Dr. Mark Turner, Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist at Oklahoma State University, talks about applied habitat management practices including the use of prescribed burning and forest stand improvement.”

“Jody Gilroy and Craig Alpers, Okmulgee Cattleman’s Association, discuss the benefits of OCA membership and their collective role in assisting beef producers in the Eastern Oklahoma.”

Brook Bartling, Muscogee Nation Wildlife Department, discusses conservation efforts on Tribal Lands, CWD, and feral hog disease research.  

Lori and David Earls, 9West Bees, discuss the challenges and opportunities of advanced beekeeping in Central Oklahoma.

Herby Sarty, Mvskoke Citizen and Veteran, talks about his passion for trapping wild hogs and discusses their devastating impact on agriculture.