As season 6 draws to a close host Joe Williams thanks you and his guests for making it a completely unforgettable season. And a deep thank you to Art of the Rural, The Waterers, and Common Council for their invaluable support in making season 6 possible. Please checkout their websites and see how you can support them!

And be sure to stay tuned in February 2026 for season 7!

Make sure to subscribe and checkout elevenwarriorarts.com to find your exclusive 5 Plain Questions podcast merchandise.

This episode features the esteemed Frederick Edwards Jr., a Creative Director and teaching artist whose transformative contributions to community empowerment are exemplified through initiatives such as Umoja and Fred's Dissonance. Fred articulates his unwavering commitment to fostering narrative justice while redirecting youth towards meaningful careers, thereby addressing societal gaps in the F-M area. Through his profound personal journey, he not only inspires resilience but also emphasizes the importance of connection and cultural awareness in educational paradigms. Our dialogue delves into the significance of youth engagement in community narratives and the dynamic interplay of personal and communal growth. Join us as we explore Fred's insights and experiences, which serve as a testament to the power of creativity and leadership in shaping a more equitable future.

Takeaways:

• Fred Edwards exemplifies unwavering commitment to narrative justice and community empowerment through innovative initiatives.
• Umoja serves as a transformative leadership program, redirecting youth towards meaningful careers and cultural awareness.
• Fred's Dissonance, a multi-generational initiative, reshapes educational paradigms with culturally relevant curricula and practices.
• Fred's compelling spoken word performances resonate across diverse audiences, showcasing his life journey and ability to inspire change.
• The youth that Fred works with serve as a mirror, challenging him to confront his own struggles and inspire resilience.
• Fred's personal story, marked by resilience and creativity, underpins his dedication to fostering positive change in his community.

Links referenced in this episode:

• elevenwarriorarts.com
• www.waterers.org
• umojaincorporated.com
• emojia inc. on Instagram

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Umoja Inc.
• Food Network
• Waterers
• Art of the Rural

Watch Fred on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives with Guy Fieri!

https://youtu.be/pYqsP4X4pgM?si=3_4g5UTvNks0fgAQ

This podcast episode features a profound discussion with Dr. Kate Beane, an esteemed scholar and executive director of the Minnesota Museum of American Art. Dr. Beane, a member of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Dakota and Muscogee Creek nations, delves into her extensive background in American Indian studies and her pivotal role in promoting Indigenous narratives within public art and historical contexts. The conversation highlights her commitment to community-led initiatives, particularly in disrupting traditional philanthropic approaches and fostering local power through art and storytelling. Dr. Beane shares her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of cultural restoration and the reclamation of Indigenous place names, which serve as vital links to heritage and identity. As the episode unfolds, listeners will gain insight into the transformative power of art and education in creating sustainable opportunities for future generations.

Links referenced in this episode:

• waterers.org
• elevenwarriorarts.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Minnesota Museum of American Art
• Vision Maker Media
• Lookout Records
• Minnesota Historical Society
• Badema Kuska
• Art Bridges
• Birch Bark Books