Behind the Rez with Sterlin Harjo

Recent episodes

1. Shanna Paddock & Alyssa Cawthon

   Dec 16, 2024

   In this episode of 'Behind the Rez,' host Sterling Harjo sits down with Alyssa Blair Cawthon and Shanna Paddock, the costume designers for the groundbreaking series 'Reservation Dogs,' to discuss their unique experiences on set. The conversation delves into their journey from personal assistants to lead costume designers, highlighting their contributions to creating an authentic and respectful portrayal of Native culture. Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective and recorded at The Church Studio, this heartfelt episode explores the emotional highs, community impact, and behind-the-scenes stories that brought the show's characters and cultural touchstones to life. Timestamp Menu: 00:51 Meet the Costume Designers 01:21 The Role of Costume Designers on Set 03:03 First Impressions and Early Challenges 03:31 Navigating Production Protocols 06:04 Emotional Moments and Personal Connections 06:50 Incorporating Cultural Elements 16:43 Community Involvement and Authenticity 24:26 Challenges of Period Costuming 27:34 Relief and Reflections 28:33 The Costume Department's Challenges 29:44 Cultural Shorthand and Representation 33:00 Zahn's Transformation 36:53 Cherished Memories and Impact 42:43 The Emotional Weight of Storytelling 45:04 Season Three's Unique Challenges 46:29 Conclusion and Gratitude Follow us on Instagram Follow us on TikTok Follow Sterlin Harjo Credits: Produced by Will Retherford of Citizens of Sound Produced by Sterlin Harjo of Crazy Eagle Media Produced by Dylan Brodie Recorded at The Church Studio Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective Music by Mato Wayuhi Cover Art & Design by Jeremy Luther Social Media Promo by Carley Moore

2. Dylan Brodie & Rockee Harjo

   Dec 2, 2024

   In this episode of 'Behind the Rez,' host Sterling Harjo sits down with producer Dylan Brodie and location's assistant Rockee Harjo to discuss their experiences working on the Emmy-nominated series 'Reservation Dogs.' From the initial challenges and funny anecdotes to the emotional highs and pivotal moments, the conversation provides an insider's view of the production process. The episode covers a range of topics, including the evolution of their roles, the impact of the show on the local community in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the familial bonds formed on set. Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective and recorded at The Church Studio, this episode offers a heartfelt and humorous look backstage. 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Rez 00:32 Meet the Crew: Dylan and Rocky 01:21 Early Days and Challenges 03:03 The Evolution of Roles 04:36 The Emotional Journey 07:05 Creating a Unique Set Culture 17:06 Impact on the Community 21:37 The Jail Episode: From Yard Sale to Nightmare 22:03 Transforming a Cursed Location 23:23 Haunted and Hectic Filming Conditions 25:51 Challenges and Gratitude in Filmmaking 27:01 The Role of a Producer 30:11 The Importance of Passion in the Industry 33:51 Hopes for Tulsa's Film Industry 37:42 Reflecting on the Journey 40:35 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgements Follow us on Instagram Follow us on TikTok Follow Sterlin Harjo Credits: Produced by Will Retherford of Citizens of Sound Produced by Sterlin Harjo of Crazy Eagle Media Produced by Dylan Brodie Recorded at The Church Studio Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective Music by Mato Wayuhi Cover Art & Design by Jeremy Luther Social Media Promo by Carley Moore

3. Warren Queton & Ryan Redcorn

   Nov 18, 2024

   Explore the unscripted journey behind the Emmy-nominated series 'Reservation Dogs' in this episode of 'Behind the Rez,' hosted by Sterling Harjo. Join Sterlin as he reminisces with fellow cast and crew members, including Warren Queton and Ryan Redcorn, sharing personal stories, humorous moments, and the cultural significance of their work. The conversation delves into the creation of Indian humor, the challenges of production, and heartfelt reflections on the show's impact. Sterling also touches on themes of community, language preservation, and the bittersweet experience of ending the beloved series. Featuring memorable anecdotes, laughs, and a behind-the-scenes look at the bond formed during the making of 'Reservation Dogs,' this episode captures the spirit and authenticity that made the show a cultural milestone. Timestamp Menu: 01:01 Reminiscing College Days 03:39 The Essence of Indian Humor 15:27 Warren's Acting Journey 18:44 Writer's Room Reflections 22:06 Travel Misadventures 26:08 The Art of Storytelling and Humor 27:13 Cultural Markers and Language 29:02 Reservation Dogs and Native Representation 33:35 Behind the Scenes of Reservation Dogs 40:26 The Importance of Native Language 48:34 Reflections and Future Hopes 55:44 Closing Remarks and Credits Follow us on Instagram Follow us on TikTok Follow Sterlin Harjo Credits: Produced by Will Retherford of Citizens of Sound Produced by Sterlin Harjo of Crazy Eagle Media Produced by Dylan Brodie Recorded at The Church Studio Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective Music by Mato Wayuhi Cover Art & Design by Jeremy Luther Social Media Promo by Carley Moore

4. Tafv Sampson

   Nov 4, 2024

   Explore the creation of the Emmy-nominated series 'Reservation Dogs' in 'Behind the Rez,' hosted by Sterling Harjo. This episode delves into the personal and professional journey of Tafv Sampson, highlighting her transition from fashion to set design, the importance of incorporating cultural artifacts, and the integration of personal family memorabilia into the show. Reflecting on emotional filming experiences, significant episodes from seasons two and three, and the challenges faced such as unexpected fires, the discussion underscores the dedication to authenticity and Native representation. Harjo and Tafv share touching anecdotes, the profound cultural significance of their work, and the lasting impact on their storytelling approach. Timestamp Menu: 01:13 Set Decoration and Coming Home 01:52 The Origin Story 03:31 Joining Reservation Dogs 05:58 Creating Authentic Sets 08:21 Emotional Connections on Set 08:58 Reflecting on Season One 20:08 Legacy of Will Sampson 26:41 Honoring the Legacy of Older Actors 27:16 A Heartbreaking Story of Rejection 28:23 The Struggles of the Previous Generation 30:12 Season Three: A New Level 31:03 Maximus: A Unique Character 35:32 The Dear Lady Episode: A Production Challenge 43:03 Unexpected Acting Role 46:52 The 1970s Episode: An Homage to the Past 49:30 The Impact and Legacy of Rez Dogs Follow us on Instagram Follow us on TikTok Follow Sterlin Harjo Credits: Produced by Will Retherford of Citizens of Sound Produced by Sterlin Harjo of Crazy Eagle Media Produced by Dylan Brodie Recorded at The Church Studio Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective Music by Mato Wayuhi Cover Art & Design by Jeremy Luther Social Media Promo by Carley Moore

5. Mato Wayuhi

   Oct 21, 2024

   Explore the candid and unscripted journey of creating the Emmy-nominated series 'Reservation Dogs' in this episode of 'Behind the Rez,' hosted by Sterling Harjo. Join Sterlin as he chats with Mato Wayuhi about his name, music inspirations, and the serendipitous path from hip-hop videos to scoring the show. The episode delves into the creative challenges faced in New Mexico, the excitement of online connections, and the importance of Indigenous representation. Sterlin and Mato discuss the art of scoring, emotional moments on set, and the personal growth experienced throughout production. Harjo and Wayuhi also reflect on the decision to end the series on a high note and the cultural significance it holds, all while celebrating authentic storytelling and the camaraderie formed during the journey. Timestamp Menu: 00:49 The Meaning of Mato 02:32 Discovering Mato's Music 04:17 Scoring Reservation Dogs 09:48 The Challenges of Season One 23:41 Recording Challenges and Acoustic Guitars 24:12 Reflecting on Season Two 25:36 The Catfish Episode and Writer's Room Stories 27:35 Season Two Finale and Emotional Moments 29:14 COVID Disruption and Season Three 30:59 Boarding School Episode and Wes Studi 34:14 Ending the Show and Its Impact 41:14 Cultural Representation and Legacy Follow us on Instagram Follow us on TikTok Follow Sterlin Harjo Credits: Produced by Will Retherford of Citizens of Sound Produced by Sterlin Harjo of Crazy Eagle Media Produced by Dylan Brodie Recorded at The Church Studio Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective Music by Mato Wayuhi Cover Art & Design by Jeremy Luther Social Media Promo by Carley Moore

6. Trailer: Behind the Rez with Sterlin Harjo

   Oct 14, 2024

   Welcome to Behind the Rez with Sterlin Harjo—the unscripted podcast where we take you behind the scenes of Reservation Dogs. Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective, this podcast is one of many projects we are taping and producing in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Every episode, we're sitting down with the cast, crew, and creators to talk about what it was like to make this Emmy nominated and groundbreaking series, the highs, the lows, and the stuff you don’t see on camera. So grab a seat, because we're giving you an inside look at the heart and soul of Rez Dogs. Follow us on Instagram Follow us on TikTok Follow Sterlin Harjo Credits: Produced by Will Retherford of Citizens of Sound Produced by Sterlin Harjo of Crazy Eagle Media Produced by Dylan Brodie Recorded at The Church Studio Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective Music by Mato Wayuhi Cover Art & Design by Jeremy Luther Social Media Promo by Carley Moore