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the Circle of Wealth
Willie learns from John Red Elk about four paths to wealth: Worker, Self-Reliant, Leader, and Wise Investor. Realizing his community is stuck in the less prosperous paths, Willie is inspired to pursue leadership and investing to improve his and his community’s financial future.
the Chains of Debt
Willie Cheez moves to Phoenix to become financially independent but quickly gets caught in a cycle of debt. He discovers that the financial system is built to keep people in debt and starts learning how to manage his money better.
Power of Systematic Businesses
Willie Cheez is introduced to the concept of building wealth through systematic businesses at a seminar, changing his perspective on income generation. Instead of traditional income, which is limited by time and effort, he learns about creating systems that earn continuously
Truth About Public Education
Willie discovers unsettling truths about the education system during a revealing conversation with a knowledgeable elder. He learns that the system, heavily influenced by industrialists like John D. Rockefeller was designed not to foster independent thinkers but compliant workers.
Hidden Truth About Taxes
Willie dives into the complexities of the tax system under the guidance of a wise Navajo entrepreneur. He learns the stark differences in how employees, self-employed individuals, business owners, and investors are taxed, revealing a system designed to keep many working harder.
The Power of the U.S. Constitution
Willie Cheez delves into the significance of the U.S. Constitution through a high school class that transforms his understanding of his rights and the government’s limits. The principles that ensure liberty and justice across his dual heritage
Rejections and the Word, NO!
Willie Cheez transforms from an inspired attendee at a local community fair into a savvy entrepreneur on the Navajo Reservation. Initially captivated by a handmade bracelet, Willie is moved to start his own business crafting culturally resonant pieces.
Devil’s Interview: A Lesson from Chidi
Willie confronts his deepest fears and doubts in a vivid dream where he meets Chidi, a sinister figure embodying the dark forces of failure. Chidi reveals that fear, conformity, and self-imposed limitations are the main obstacles preventing individuals from achieving their potential.
Wisdom of the Four Winds
Willie grapples with understanding the diverse behaviors of those around him—friends, family, and teachers. His quest for understanding leads him to a profound conversation with a hitchhiker who teaches him about the Four Winds, each representing different human characteristics.
the Shadow of Bullying
Willie Cheez struggles with relentless bullying at his new school, which deeply affects his self-esteem and happiness. The constant mockery and isolation lead him to feel utterly defeated, pushing him towards a dark contemplation.
Transforming Obsession
Willie Cheez uncovers a forgotten journal in an old bookstore, revealing the private struggles of a woman consumed by her addictions and obsessions. The raw, emotional entries explore the depths of her battles with alcohol, body image, social validation, materialism, and secrecy.
Weight of Guilt and Blame
Willie explores the pervasive issues of guilt and blame within his community on the reservation. Observing how these negative feelings stifle personal growth and happiness, Willie reflects on stories of individuals haunted by their past.
the Boarding SchooL Life
Willie confronts the harsh realities of boarding school life, designed to strip Native American children of their cultural identity. Sent away from everything familiar, Willie and other children face rigid discipline, cultural suppression, and a loss of individuality.
the Navajo Code Talker
Willie Cheez embarks on a profound journey of discovery about the valorous Navajo Code Talkers who served in World War II. His meeting with Chester Begay, a veteran Code Talker, illuminates the critical role these heroes played, using their native language to devise an unbreakable code.
the Story of the Crow
Willie immerses himself in the ancient tradition of storytelling with his community, captivated by Grandfather Whitehorse’s tale about the origin of the crow’s black color. The crow, planning to outsmart the Creator, decides to be last, hoping to receive all the colors.
the Encounter with the Skinwalker
Willie experiences a chilling and transformative encounter that delves deep into Navajo folklore about skinwalkers, beings capable of shape-shifting and wielding supernatural powers. Some viewed as protectors using their powers to guard their people, others as ominous entities with darker intentions.
the Owl: A Tale of Fear and Salvation
Willie confronts the dual nature of the owl in Navajo culture—a feared harbinger of misfortune and a mysterious protector. This gripping tale unfolds as Willie, caught in a severe snowstorm, recalls the ominous significance of the owl while seeking refuge.
Beauty of Life Before Technology
Willie reflects on his childhood on the Navajo Reservation, a time untouched by the digital world. This narrative explores the rich, fulfilling life that thrived on connection to land, community, and culture, rather than screens and devices.
the Squaw Dance Tradition
Willie and his family are deeply engaged in the preparations and execution of a Squaw Dance, an important cultural ceremony among the Navajo people. The narrative explores the significant cultural, social, and spiritual elements involved in this tradition.
the Navajo Peyote Ceremony
Willie Cheez participated in a sacred Navajo Peyote ceremony, a profound rite of healing and spiritual renewal hosted in his honor. Preparations involved his entire community, reflecting deep cultural traditions within a traditional hogan or Tipi.
the Story of the Long Walk
Willie Cheez learns of his great-grandmother’s harrowing journey during the Long Walk of 1864, where the Navajo were forcibly removed by U.S. forces. This brutal relocation from their homelands to Bosque Redondo marked a dark chapter in Navajo history
the Truth About Reservations
Willie Cheez delves into the painful history of reservations with his grandfather, learning about their origins, control and confinement by the U.S. government. His exploration reveals that reservations were strategically used to isolate Native Americans, seizing their lands and disrupting their traditional lifestyles.
the Importance of Navajo Clans
Willie Cheez explores the profound significance of Navajo clans with his grandmother. Clans are not just familial ties but foundational elements that define relationships and responsibilities within Navajo culture. Originated from Changing Woman.
the Navajo Nation Government
Willie Cheez gains a deep understanding of the Navajo Nation government through a conversation with Peterson Zah, a respected elder and former President. They discuss the structure of the government, which includes the President, Navajo Nation Council, and judicial system.
Kinaaldá: A Four-Day Journey
Willie Cheez participates in the Kinaaldá, a significant Navajo ceremony marking his cousin Aubrey’s transition into womanhood. This four-day event involves various rituals that symbolize growth, strength, and community connections.
the Navajo Shoe Game
Willie Cheez experiences the Navajo Shoe Game for the first time, a traditional game played during the winter that teaches about the balance of night and day through a symbolic contest between day and night creatures.
A Day of Tradition and Responsibility
Willie Cheez joins his Nali (grandfather) in the annual summer brandings, a sacred Navajo tradition where they mark their cattle and vaccinate sheep. The day is filled with a deep sense of responsibility, as Willie learns the importance of the branding process
the Stories from the Rehab Center
Willie Cheez visits a rehab center on the Navajo Reservation to understand the devastating impact of meth and fentanyl addiction on his community. He listens to the heart-wrenching stories of people like Jake, who lost everything to meth, and Sarah, who almost died from fentanyl overdoses.
the Battle Against Alcohol
Willie Cheez witnesses the devastating impact of alcohol on the Navajo Reservation, including the tragic decline of his cousin Tommy, whose life is shattered by addiction. After a violent incident involving Tommy, Willie makes a vow to help his community break free from the cycle of alcohol abuse.
Alcohol Abuse
Willie struggles with alcohol addiction, which distances him from his family and his roots. His addiction begins as a way to escape the pressures of life but soon spirals into isolation and loss. Willie realizes that alcohol has cut him off from the things that matter most.
Drug addiction
Willie struggles with drug addiction, which isolates him from his family, culture, and sense of self. After meeting an elder, Naabaahii, who reminds him of the interconnectedness of life, Willie begins to see his addiction as a broken strand in a web that connects him to his community and ancestors.
grief and loss
Willie processes the grief of losing his grandfather by finding peace in honoring his memory through helping others. Drawing inspiration from his grandfather’s belief that we honor the departed by supporting those who grieve
Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal
Willie transforms his journey through depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts into a mission to support others facing similar challenges. Initially uncertain about attending a support group, Willie finds strength in sharing his story and offering guidance to newcomers
Disconnected from Culture/Roots
Willie Cheez reflects on his journey of rediscovering his roots and realizing the importance of passing on the cultural stories, values, and teachings that have shaped his identity. As he shares these stories with the younger generation on the reservation…
Domestic Violence
Willie reflects on his personal journey through the hardships of domestic violence, focusing on how he transformed his pain into a source of strength not just for himself, but for others in his community. Having experienced the powerlessness and isolation…
Childhood Trauma, Family Issues
Willie embarks on a journey to confront the unresolved trauma from his childhood and family issues that have shaped his life. For years, Willie had buried his emotions, thinking that ignoring the pain would help him move forward.
Self-Worth and Shame
Willie embarks on a journey to confront the deep feelings of shame that have impacted his sense of self-worth. For years, he had believed that burying these emotions would help him avoid the pain. But as time passed, the shame only grew, affecting his relationships and view of himself.