Wesley Benally welcomes Taryn Reynolds, MSL, THRP II, to the Insight in Indian Country Podcast. Taryn is a proud member of the Osage Nation and Human Resources Consultant at REDW Advisors & CPAs. With a rich background spanning 13 years in tribal government, she shares her unique perspective on blending traditional values with progressive governance in tribal organizations.

In their conversation, Taryn emphasizes how protecting sovereignty extends beyond language preservation into organizational policies. Taryn illustrates how tribal communities can be both progressive and traditional, challenging the "that's how it's always been done" mentality while honoring cultural values. Her message resonates with a powerful truth: Native communities aren't just surviving – they're thriving and creating sustainable futures for generations to come.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction and Personal Background
• 03:19 - Cultural Identity in Professional Practice
• 08:27 - Understanding Tribal Sovereignty and HR
• 14:31 - Progressive Approaches to Tribal Governance
• 19:44 - Sources of Inspiration and Mentorship
• 25:14 - Vision for Future Tribal Leaders
• 28:08 - Reflections on Native American Heritage Month
• 30:17 - Closing Thoughts on Ambition and Leadership

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REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs. Thanks for listening!

In this powerful episode of Insight in Indian Country, host Wesley Benally welcomes Sean McCabe, CPA and Controller of the Navajo Nation, for a candid discussion about building a meaningful legacy in tribal finance. With nearly 30 years of accounting experience, Sean reflects on what it means to leave a lasting impact that "my kids could be proud of, my people could be proud of." As a member of the Salt People Clan and Red Running into the Water Clan, Sean shares how he navigates his role as one of the key financial leaders of the largest tribal nation in the country, always keeping service to the community at the forefront.

The conversation delves into the unique challenges and opportunities of tribal financial leadership, where cultural values and business decisions intertwine. Sean offers valuable insights into the critical need for Native representation in senior financial positions across Indian Country, encouraging the next generation to step up to the plate: "We need more young Native American people at the top that can really lead discussions and lead communities and tribes in a direction that we've never seen before."

Through their discussion, both leaders emphasize that true success isn't just about winning or losing, but about doing things "the right way" and maintaining the values inherited from their ancestors while pushing for progress. Sean's journey illustrates how professional excellence and cultural identity can work together to create a legacy that serves the people.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome
• 02:14 - Sean's Background and Cultural Identity
• 04:14 - Blending Cultural Values with Professional Practice
• 08:27 - Navigating Leadership in Tribal Finance
• 13:16 - Native Representation in Professional Positions
• 17:48 - Sources of Inspiration and Motivation
• 22:22 - Building a Professional Legacy
• 26:16 - Reflections on Native American Heritage Month
• 29:31 - Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

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REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs. Thanks for listening!

It's Native American Heritage Month! The latest episode of Insight in Indian Country features Marcus Benally, a Navajo audit manager at REDW Advisors and CPAs, who skillfully blends his grandfather's teachings with corporate leadership in the finance industry. In this candid conversation, podcast host REDW Principal and National Tribal Practice Leader Wesley Benally sits down with Marcus to discuss how cultural identity becomes a superpower in professional settings, even when imposter syndrome strikes.

Their discussion challenges the notion that tribal communities are merely historical footnotes, highlighting their current economic impact and innovation. Marcus's journey illustrates how traditional values – from education to community connection – can transform into professional strengths.

This episode emphasizes a larger truth: Native American heritage isn't just a monthly observance but a vital, ongoing force in American society. It's a powerful reminder that embracing one's cultural roots can be the key to authentic leadership.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to Native American Heritage Month
• 02:16 - Cultural Identity and Professional Journey
• 05:44 - Leadership and Representation in Business
• 10:55 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
• 16:10 - Economic Contributions of Tribal Communities
• 20:57 - The Significance of Native American Heritage Month
• 25:01 - Acknowledging Historical Injustices
• 26:51 - Future Endeavors and Closing Thoughts

Get connected to expert insights for Tribal Nations. Subscribe to the Insight in Indian Country Newsletter.

REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs. Thanks for listening!