Hidden Heritage

In this episode of Hidden Heritage "The Book, Chapter 6", host Paul LaRoche takes us on an enlightening journey through the small reservation town of Lower Brule, SD sharing stories and insights from the heart of Native America. Join Paul and his new biological family as they explore the vibrant community, unveiling the rich tapestry of culture, tradition, and history that defines this unique place.

As they travel through the lands...

Join Paul LaRoche as he narrates chapter 5 of the book "Hidden Heritage" and explores his ancestral roots in this latest episode. Journey through time with tales of the Lakota people during the 1800s, witnessing their rich cultural heritage, struggles, and resilience. This episode dives into the Lakota’s profound relationship with the Great Spirit and the land, revealing how these stories intertwine with Paul's own personal history...

Join host Paul LaRoche as he narrates Chapter 4 of his life's story, 'A Special Gift,' from the Hidden Heritage book by Barbara Marshak. The episode begins with a traditional Thanksgiving morning, illustrating the warmth of familial bonds and shared stories. Paul listens to his daughter Nicole's vivid dream, sparking a deep connection to their Native American roots.

As the day unfolds, the family partakes in a feast, reflecting on ...

In this episode, join Paul LaRoche as he embarks on a heartfelt journey to uncover his hidden heritage in this captivating episode of Hidden Heritage. Accompanied by his family, Paul eagerly anticipates meeting his newly discovered brother and sister during a Thanksgiving weekend reunion on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation of SD. This episode dives deep into the emotional complexities of adoption reunions and the joy of con...

In this fascinating episode of Hidden Heritage, join host Paul LaRoche as we delve into the rich tapestry of Native American history across southwest Minnesota, northwest Iowa, and southeast South Dakota. Discover how the land's indigenous nations, including the Dakota and Lakota, have maintained deep-rooted connections to the prairies and waterways that define the region. We'll explore sacred sites, historical confli...

In the second chapter of "Hidden Heritage," we get a deeper sense of the life of Paul LaRoche, as written by Barbara Marshak and narrated by Paul himself. The episode explores the struggles Paul faces while living a life devoid of passion and music, conforming to societal norms of career and family. However, an emptiness persists, leading him to consider searching for his biological family.

With the support of his wife Kathy, Paul ...

Welcome to the new chapter of "Hidden Heritage," where we delve into the story of Paul LaRoche, an adopted child on a journey to reconnect with his Lakota roots and explore his cultural identity through music. In this episode, Paul narrates the first chapter of his book, revealing his childhood as Paul Summers, the son of Clarence and Irma in the idyllic town of Worthington, MN. The story explores Paul's discovery of his adoption, ...

Join host Paul LaRoche as he takes you on a remarkable journey through his life and cultural heritage with the announcement of the podcast series "Hidden Heritage," based on the book written by Barbara Marshak. This special series will explore the transformative story of LaRoche's self-discovery, cultural reconciliation, and the founding of the music group Rulé.

Experience the deep connection and profound impact of Native American ...

In this episode of Hidden Heritage, we embark on a poignant journey of rich traditions of the Lakota people, focusing on the Winter Count Blanket, a historical record celebrated for its storytelling and cultural significance. Join us as we explore how this age-old tradition reflects events that shaped the community, offering insights into the Lakota way of life and their view of time as a continuous cycle.

The episode culminates in...

Join Paul LaRoche as he embarks on a deeply personal journey to uncover his Native American roots and the transformative power of music. Hidden for years, his connection to the Lakota heritage was unveiled, leading to a family reunion and a cultural awakening.

In 1994 Paul became an enrolled member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of SD.  Returning to music after a 7 year hiatus Paul named his new group Brulé out of recognition of hi...

Join Paul LaRoche in this Holiday Episode of Hidden Heritage called "The Lakota Star Quilt".  Travel back to December of 1993 when Paul and his family spent their first Christmas on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation.  They were gifted a beautiful Lakota Star Quilt that Holiday season but it took years before they understood the true significance of that special honoring.  

For the Lakota, the Star Quilt is far ...

Join Paul LaRoche as he recounts his emotional reunion with his Lakota heritage. Adopted at birth, Paul journeys from a small farming community to embracing his tribal roots on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. After discovering his adoption papers, he finds joy and connection with his newfound family, building bridges between his past and present.

This episode explores the unique experience of celebrating Christmas on an I...

In this episode, Paul LaRoche shares a deeply personal journey from his adoption at birth, to discovering his true Lakota roots.

Raised unaware of his Native American heritage, Paul's life took a dramatic turn when his wife uncovered adoption papers, sparking a five-year journey to find his biological family. This episode goes into the complexities of identity, the power of family, and the remarkable reunion with his Lakota relativ...

In this insightful episode of "Hidden Heritage," Paul LaRoche shares his personal journey of rediscovery and cultural connection, unfolding the seven fundamental virtues that define the Lakota people. Adopted at birth and raised in a different world, Paul's story is one of two worlds colliding — a testament to the resilience and grace of heritage. Through the wisdom of fortitude, respect, compassion, honesty, generosity, humility, ...

In this compelling episode of "Hidden Heritage," Paul LaRoche explores the sacred Lakota tradition of the Hembleciya, or Vision Quest, a powerful spiritual journey of self-discovery and communication with the Great Spirit. Paul explains the significance of this ancient ceremony, detailing its role in guiding individuals through life transitions and helping them find clarity and purpose.

Listeners are taken through the meticulous pr...

Join Paul LaRoche in this compelling episode of "Hidden Heritage" as he shares his journey of discovering his true American Indian roots and the profound stories that emerge from it. Adopted at birth and raised away from his Native American heritage, Paul embarks on a quest that leads to a heartfelt reunion with his Lakota family.

This Veterans Day tribute pays special recognition to Native American veterans, who have served the Un...

Join us on a fascinating journey to Mitchell, South Dakota, as we explore the history of the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village. Situated on a six-acre site overlooking Lake Mitchell, this archaeological site offers a glimpse into life over a thousand years ago.

Discover how this community of a few hundred people thrived by cultivating familiar crops like corn, squash, and beans, alongside less common plants. Learn about their hun...

In this compelling episode of Hidden Heritage, host Paul LaRoche shares his personal journey of discovering his Native American roots after being adopted at birth and raised in a small Minnesota farming community. Uncover the emotional and spiritual quest that led Paul to reunite with his Lakota family on the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation.

Explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating two distinct cultures, and how music...

In this week's episode of Hidden Heritage, host Paul LaRoche takes us on a journey to Hayward, Wisconsin, to uncover the inspiring life story of Dave Anderson, better known as "Famous Dave." Discover how Dave, a member of the Choctaw Chippewa Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe, turned his passion for barbecue into a nationwide sensation, defying the odds and embodying the American dream.

Join us on Dave's remarkable journey from humble b...