Jan 1, 2024
Waylon Marvin of Redrum MC’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.
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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 Studios in Reno, NV.
If you enjoy Coffee with an Indian, you’re going to love Coffee with an Indian_Black.
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.
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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 Tribal Minds, Inc. 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.
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