Coffee with an Indian
Sort of like, what happens when you get overpowered by the Nevada Sun—while listening to Nuthin’ but a G Thang (on repeat)—and at the same time, listening to a heavily tattoo'd guy from HV1, intelligently-and-existentially deconstruct (and reconstruct) strange meanings of life. All from a tribal perspective. Yeah, it’s kind of like that…
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Episode 2: Redrum MC Great Basin Chapter
01/01/2024
Episode 2: Redrum MC Great Basin Chapter
of ’s Great Basin chapter stops in to talk about Nevada’s tribal culture, being away from home, and the vast and varied world of the motorcycle club scene. ------- Coffee with an Indian is a provocative conversation from Indian Country, for Indian Country, and for our relatives around the globe. Hosted by Brian “BB” Melendez from the in Reno, NV. If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian, you’re going to love Please consider subscribing to Coffee with an Indian_Black, which is the Extended, uncut version of the very best from Season 2 and features the unabashed, R-rated cuts from every episode of Season 1. This service is exclusively on Patreon. Every subscription helps us move the show (and the conversation) further. ------- At the heart of Nevada's indigenous resurgence stands Brian “BB” Melendez, an esteemed Tribal member of the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony and the driving force behind Born amidst the turbulence of the 2020 global pandemic, Tribal Minds emerged as a beacon of hope and a testament to resilience. As a Native-led grassroots nonprofit, the organization cast a statewide net of influence across Nevada's 28 federally-recognized Tribes and Colonies, embodying the mission to build and fortify healthy working relationships among them. Challenging the status quo and reshaping conventional approaches, Tribal Minds became a transformative force, dispelling "business-as-usual" attitudes prevalent in other organizations and community spaces. With Melendez at its helm, the organization envisioned a brighter future, crafting sustainable Native-forward initiatives and continually pushing against the boundaries of industry standards. This was more than just an organizational venture; it was a movement. The stark disparities faced by their communities, especially during existential crises, highlighted the pressing need for an external third-party organization capable of offering fresh perspectives and essential skill sets. Tribal Minds stepped up to this challenge. As both a voice of reason and a dependable network of relatives, they provided a lifeline when it was needed the most. Their journey was not without challenges, but with a blend of realism and spiritual hope, they carved a path forward. Brian’s leadership credentials span over two decades. Beyond his pivotal role in Tribal Minds, he is a Sundance Chief, guiding his Tribe through sacred ceremonies, a published voice in American Indian spirituality, and the charismatic host of the "Coffee with an Indian" podcast. Holding a master’s degree in justice management and a bachelor's in criminal justice from the University of Nevada, Reno, his expertise has also manifested in culturally attuned prevention programs for Native families and youth. Currently, Brian channels his passion into writing, with a novel set for a 2023 publication. The legacy of his commitment to the indigenous community, both through Tribal Minds and beyond, remains an enduring testament to his spirit and dedication. ------- Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: and @coffeewithanindian #coffeewithanindian #cwaiblack #thelessonlearned #tribalmindsinc #lucentree #tribalmindsinc #nativenonprofit
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Episode 1: The Lesson Learned
01/01/2024
Episode 1: The Lesson Learned
It’s been a while. Brian ruminates on post-pandemic change in Indian Country, in the world, and in himself. ------- Coffee with an Indian is a provocative conversation from Indian Country, for Indian Country, and for our relatives around the globe. Hosted by Brian “BB” Melendez from the Tribal Minds Studio in Reno, NV. If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian, you’re going to love Please consider subscribing to Coffee with an Indian_Black, which is the Extended, uncut version of the very best from Season 2 and features the unabashed, R-rated cuts from every episode of Season 1. This service is exclusively on Patreon. Every subscription helps us move the show (and the conversation) further. ------- At the heart of Nevada's indigenous resurgence stands Brian “BB” Melendez, an esteemed Tribal member of the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony and the driving force behind Born amidst the turbulence of the 2020 global pandemic, Tribal Minds emerged as a beacon of hope and a testament to resilience. As a Native-led grassroots nonprofit, the organization cast a statewide net of influence across Nevada's 28 federally-recognized Tribes and Colonies, embodying the mission to build and fortify healthy working relationships among them. Challenging the status quo and reshaping conventional approaches, Tribal Minds became a transformative force, dispelling "business-as-usual" attitudes prevalent in other organizations and community spaces. With Melendez at its helm, the organization envisioned a brighter future, crafting sustainable Native-forward initiatives and continually pushing against the boundaries of industry standards. This was more than just an organizational venture; it was a movement. The stark disparities faced by their communities, especially during existential crises, highlighted the pressing need for an external third-party organization capable of offering fresh perspectives and essential skillsets. Tribal Minds stepped up to this challenge. As both a voice of reason and a dependable network of relatives, they provided a lifeline when it was needed the most. Their journey was not without challenges, but with a blend of realism and spiritual hope, they carved a path forward. Brian’s leadership credentials span over two decades. Beyond his pivotal role in Tribal Minds, he is a Sundance Chief, guiding his Tribe through sacred ceremonies, a published voice in American Indian spirituality, and the charismatic host of the "Coffee with an Indian" podcast. Holding a master’s degree in justice management and a bachelor's in criminal justice from the University of Nevada, Reno, his expertise has also manifested in culturally attuned prevention programs for Native families and youth. Currently, Brian channels his passion into writing, with a novel set for a 2023 publication. The legacy of his commitment to the indigenous community, both through Tribal Minds and beyond, remains an enduring testament to his spirit and dedication. ------- Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: and @coffeewithanindian #coffeewithanindian #cwaiblack #thelessonlearned #tribalmindsinc #lucentree #nativenonprofit #tribalmindsinc
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Episode 21: For the Greater [Indian] Good
12/18/2019
Episode 21: For the Greater [Indian] Good
The things we do for the Greater Indian Good. Have you ever wondered about the power of meditation? Ever consider how spiritual wellness and finding balance impacts your life? What about learning how significant our individual choices can be, in relation to the rest of the world? If you’ve been following this story, listen right now, to hear the final installment of Season 1.
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Episode 20: Indian Land
09/16/2019
Episode 20: Indian Land
Do you understand how valuable real estate is in the United States? Have you ever wondered about the mechanisms and trends of modern spirituality? Listen today, to hear a version of American history, told from a tribal perspective, that is seldom ever heard.
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Episode 19: The Emerald City
08/21/2019
Episode 19: The Emerald City
Ever wondered how powerful it is to be connected to the land of your Ancestors? Learn a diverse tribal perspective on morality and strength, as it pertains to humanity. Listen right now, and discover, how to find empowerment in any situation. So, put on your ruby slippers, because we got some walking to do…
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Episode 18: Sovereignty
07/05/2019
Episode 18: Sovereignty
Have you ever wondered just how powerful dancing in the Sun can be for humanity? Are you ready to learn about creating sacred space? Listen right now, to learn a unique history, and probable future—about American Indians—all from a tribal perspective.
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Episode 17: Coloring Outside The Lines
05/29/2019
Episode 17: Coloring Outside The Lines
Have you ever had to start all over again in life; and the quickest way to a new beginning, was simply taking the unorthodox path? Has there ever been a moment, when you knew you just had to keep on walking? Listen today, to learn about the intricacies of co-parenting, institutional thinking, and recreating new spaces through love: all from a tribal perspective.
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Episode 16: A Tale of Two Cities
04/17/2019
Episode 16: A Tale of Two Cities
Have you ever wanted to learn about intricate details of modern tribal leadership? Learn about the ever-changing paradigm shifts that impact Indigenous cultures and belief systems. Listen right now, to experience a raw human side of life and family, in a way that is rarely disclosed.
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Episode 15: Blood in the Dirt
03/09/2019
Episode 15: Blood in the Dirt
Have you ever found yourself in circumstances that never seemed to make any sense? Have you ever had a dream so prolific, that by just holding onto the thought of it changed your life? Listen right now, to learn about life as non-traditional tribal student, a struggling father, and an emerging young leader!
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Episode 14: Finding The Sacred
02/01/2019
Episode 14: Finding The Sacred
Have you ever learned something so special that you knew that it was going to change your life? Ever wondered what inspired the tribal people of the past, to carve divine messages on high rock walls? Listen right now, to hear how tenets of faith; are created and destroyed, all at the same time.
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Episode 13: The Day Before All Lives Mattered
01/04/2019
Episode 13: The Day Before All Lives Mattered
Have you ever made decisions in your life, that you knew were going to change your path forever? Have you ever been in love with life and at the same time pulled by the arm towards death? This is a tribal perspective on modern chaos, community heartache, and the social phenomenon of gun violence? If you want to learn something mind shattering…listen right now!
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Episode 12: What Am I To You?
11/29/2018
Episode 12: What Am I To You?
Have you ever wanted to know the fragile insides of modern tribal spirituality? Have you ever had to do something that you knew had to be done, but found opposing forces at every turn trying to stop you? Have you ever been so confused in lust, excitement, and fear, that you lose your breath? If you haven’t…get ready, because here it is.
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Episode 11: Comity of the Sun
10/30/2018
Episode 11: Comity of the Sun
Have you ever found yourself on a spiritual journey; one that you never thought you’d ever be on? While trying to move forward in life, have you ever felt inadequate and not good enough? There’s something special about learning new things, making new relationships, and witnessing sacred moments that heals old wounds. Listen today, to learn about how Indigenous People worship the power of the Sun. “We get our power from the Sun” – Chief Good Day
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Episode 10: The Third Day
10/05/2018
Episode 10: The Third Day
Have you ever allowed yourself to be lost in the moment? Have you ever had to forgive yourself for choices that you've made? Have you ever had an experience we're your life changed in an unexpected turn—a moment that so beautiful—that it made you believe in God? Listen today, to hear a story of ritual, customs, and tradition: a story of suffering for glory and dancing for the people.
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Episode 9: You Don't Even Know!
09/21/2018
Episode 9: You Don't Even Know!
Have you ever struggled with addictions, mourned the loss of a loved one, or isolate yourself from you family in the grieving process? Ever think to yourself, “what am I doing here?” or “why is this my life?” and not find any immediate answers. Have you ever simply just let go and allowed others to take care of you? Listen today to hear a story of a life changing events, opportunities, and curiosity.
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Episode 8: Chief Good Day
09/02/2018
Episode 8: Chief Good Day
Have you ever experienced death in a way that changes every part of your soul? Have you ever witnessed a gang funeral? Ever think about the impact, that just one life, has on a community. This is a story of great loss, tragedy, heartbreak and sadness. Listen today, to hear about just how fragile and unforgiving life can be.
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Episode 7: Frybread & Circuses
08/11/2018
Episode 7: Frybread & Circuses
Have your ever wondered about the structural complications of Indian Education? Ever think about how parenting impacts the capabilities of children? Have you ever thought about the tenets of institutional thinking? Listen today, to hear how so many of our tribal youth struggle through the educational system and how our families and communities are fumbling to correct this phenomenon.
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Episode 6: Gangster Lean
07/26/2018
Episode 6: Gangster Lean
Have you ever wondered about the intricacies of early 90’s gang culture and the criminality that took the lives of many young people and left others incarcerated? Ever want to know what it’s like to attend a gang funeral? Have you ever wanted to know about how to prevent juvenile delinquency? Listen today, to learn about a rampant sub-culture that has the power to shift lives and change the destinies of young people.
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Episode 5: Bending Spoons
06/29/2018
Episode 5: Bending Spoons
Have you ever thought about what it must be like to grow up on an American Indian Reservation in the 90’s? Have you ever wondered about the impacts that a broken home, alcohol abuse and drug addictions, and domestic violence has on a child’s worldview? Ever think about how important your own unique role is in a community setting? Listen today, to hear about teenage angst and unintended social apathy.
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Episode 4: In-Between Dwellers
06/21/2018
Episode 4: In-Between Dwellers
Have you ever wondered how Indian families transition after a suicide? What do you think life is like for a child born with serious disabilities, or how difficult it must be to provide comfort to them from the sidelines? Learn why an Indian boy, would leave the only caregivers he would ever know, to live with his biological mother? To find out all these mysterious details, listen right now…
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Episode 3: The Green Side of the Mountain
06/14/2018
Episode 3: The Green Side of the Mountain
Do you want to know what was life was like, as an Indian child, in Reno during the late 80’s? Do you understand how violence and trauma can shape a young mind? Have you ever wondered how common another person’s depression can impact other people’s paths forever? If you’re prepared to find out, listen right now…
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Episode 2: Indian Boy
06/02/2018
Episode 2: Indian Boy
Why is it crucial to know the history of where your family comes from? Have you ever thought to yourself, just how impactful your parent’s life experiences have been in your own story? Listen now to learn about the secrets and tricks of little Indian Boys.
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Episode 1: Ground Zero
05/22/2018
Episode 1: Ground Zero
Welcome to Coffee with an Indian, I’m BB, your Host and Resident-Indian. You are now about to listen to a brilliantly composed tribal narrative, in a way that has never been done before on any podcast. Have you ever wondered what it’s like living on a modern Indian Reservation? Have you ever had to make something out of nothing? Are you ready for a unique and complex story, filled with struggle and spirit? We’ll you’re in luck because here it is.
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