In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode, Shilo & Brianna sit down with William “Will” Miller (Blackfeet & Cherokee), Executive Director of the NAYA Action Fund and Government Affairs Manager at the Native American Youth and Family Center, to discuss the journey that shaped him into the dynamic leader he is today.

From his deep roots in Portland’s urban Native community to his tireless advocacy for Indigenous rights, Will shares the values and lessons that guide his work navigating the colonial political system. Together, they delve into the complexities of cultural code-switching, the unique challenges of civic engagement for urban Native communities, and strategies for sustaining mental and spiritual health while pushing for systemic change.

Recorded just two days before the pivotal November 5th election, this episode is both a reflection on Will’s inspiring path and a call to action for Indigenous and Two Spirit community members seeking to make an impact. Brianna and Shilo share their pride in watching Will grow into a community leader and advocate who prioritizes supporting the Native community above all else.

Stay tuned for a follow-up episode with Will on the post-election landscape as part of the podcast’s upcoming series, Entering the Slipstream (Bullshit) Era.

Episode Links:

NAYA Action Fund: https://www.nayaaction.org/

NAYA Family Center: https://nayapdx.org/engagement_policy_and_advocacy/

NAYA Action Fund Instagram: @nayaaction

Will Miller personal Instagram: @millerw28

"In this episode, Brianna and Shilo delve into a seldom-discussed aspect of disability—the financial and emotional impact of chronic illness and disability. They candidly share their experiences with lymphedema and lipedema, shedding light on the treatment costs, diagnosis process, and the invaluable support they've found in each other.

The conversation also touches on vital subjects like self-advocacy within health systems, the intersections of chronic illness, disability, and body size, while living in bodies that defy traditional norms imposed by colonial standards (such as sickness, disability, fatness, and being transgender, etc.).

In bodies that transgress these colonial standards, we often face the choice of required metamorphasis into socially acceptable forms or facing ostracization and worse. Join us for this eye-opening discussion shedding light on the realities of living with chronic illnesses and disabilities."