Episode 1 of Eminazhichiget featuring Mark Wilson
In Episode 1 of Eminazhichiget, we are thrilled to feature Part 1 of our conversation with Mark Wilson, Mayor Pro Tem of Traverse City and owner of New Leonard Media. Mark is an enrolled citizen of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. His background is in multimedia, entertainment, and leadership. He is a lifelong DJ with a love of Hip Hop Culture and the production of organic and classic boom-bap instrumentals. His education includes: graduate of the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences, a degree in Visual Communications, Liberal Studies, and a Masters in Public Administration. Mark’s background in public service is: two terms on the GTB Tribal Council, Traverse City Commission, and various boards and committees.
In this powerful conversation with Eminazhichiget host, Holly T. Bird, Mark shares about the music, culture, and people that inspire him; the lessons learned from challenges in his younger years; the impact of oppression and intergenerational trauma; and his decision to embrace leadership roles and serve as an advocate for his community.
Eminazhichiget, which translates in Anishinaabemowin to “person who does good things for others,” is the name of a new Title Track program and podcast celebrating Anishinaabek leaders. We hope to uplift their efforts by providing a snapshot into their work and lives, and allowing all to celebrate their success and leadership.
Listen to the full episode, subscribe, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Soundcloud.
You can also watch the full video of the episode on our YouTube.
Check out our other podcast, State of Water, which highlights inspiring conversations with water protectors from many walks of life as we discuss clean water issues and their relationship to policy, equity, community and climate.
Episode 1 Credits:
Mark Wilson interviewed by Holly T. Bird
Produced by Holly T. Bird and Chris Good
Edited by Chris Good
Graphic by Chris Good
Music by Tom Binesiwegiizhig Peters
You can also watch the full video of the episode on our YouTube.
In this clip from Episode 1, Mark Wilson shares about his deep love for hip-hop music and culture and how it’s helped him connect with his own Indigenous identity.
We honor the courage and vulnerability embodied by our guest Mark Wilson in Episodes 1 & 2 of Eminazhichiget and encourage you to sit with the power and intensity of this clip.
Historical or intergenerational trauma is a shared experience by many Indigenous families and communities who have endured systemic violence, land dispossession, and loss of cultural practices. It’s this reality that makes the resilient journey of strong Indigenous leaders such as Mark all the more worthy of recognition.
