Behind the Rez with Sterlin Harjo

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
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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

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
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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

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
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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

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
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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

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