In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Kade, Etta, Lorraine, Sean, and Senia dive into a lively and heartfelt conversation about Ho-Chunk celebrations—especially powwows—and what they mean to their community. They share personal stories about dancing, singing, and enjoying their favorite foods, all while keeping the mood light and fun. Through laughter, memories, and reflections, the group highlights how powwows honor culture, strengthen identity, and bring people together.
The students begin by sharing what they’re thankful for, grounding the conversation in gratitude for family, culture, and community. As they chat, playful teasing and friendly banter fill the air. They talk about different styles of dance—from jingle to fancy—and the excitement of stepping into the arena for the first time. Many of their stories include humorous moments, making the episode feel like a conversation among close friends. They also touch on the fun side of powwows: earning a little money for dancing, enjoying walking tacos, and debating their favorite foods from the vendors.
Throughout the episode, the importance of honoring Ho-Chunk traditions shines. The students express how powwows help them stay connected to their heritage and remind them of the teachings passed down through generations. These celebrations, they explain, are more than events—they’re moments of unity, pride, and cultural strength. The episode wraps up with an encouraging reminder that every story matters, every voice matters, and celebrating culture together keeps it alive.
Takeaways:
• Students share the importance of cultural celebrations and how they shape their identity.
• They describe how dancing and singing at powwows connect them to their roots and strengthen community bonds.
• Honoring Ho-Chunk traditions is a vital part of their lives, reflected in stories and personal experiences.
• Food plays a fun and meaningful role in celebrations, with walking tacos and fry bread as favorites.
• The episode highlights how student voices help keep traditions alive for future generations.
• Gratitude for family and culture is central to their reflections, showing how these elements guide their stories and experiences.
Hi everyone.
Welcome to The BAGO Mic, powered by student voice, where students lead the way.
We are students from Winnebago Public Schools, broadcasting from the Winnebago Reservation in Winnebago, Nebraska. This podcast is created by us, for the world.
Today’s episode is about Ho-Chunk celebrations, and the specific celebration we are talking about is powwows.
What We’re Thankful For
Before we begin, we want to share some things we’re thankful for.
I’m thankful for my family.
I’m thankful for my eyes.
I’m thankful for my mom.
I’m thankful for powwows.
I’m thankful for Ho-Chunk culture.
Dancing & Singing at Powwows
Once again, the topic we are talking about is Ho-Chunk celebrations, specifically powwows.
Some of us dance at powwows, and some of us sing.
One student shared that they sing powwow songs, which are an important part of the celebration. Singing around the drum is meaningful and powerful.
Others shared that they dance in styles such as:
Woodland
Fancy
Grass Dance
War Dance
Jingle Dress Dance
One dancer shared that they dance Jingle Dress, and their favorite part is the sound of the bells on the dress.
Many students shared that dancing and singing at powwows is fun, meaningful, and something they have done since they were very young. Some started dancing when they were just three years old, sometimes dancing while holding a parent’s hand.
Getting Paid & Giving Back
Some students talked about getting paid for dancing or singing at powwows.
Money earned is often used for:
Snacks
Winter clothes
Saving money
Taking family members out to eat
One student shared that when they earned money, they liked to treat their mom and sisters because their mom always takes care of them.
Powwow Food Favorites
Food was a big part of the conversation.
Favorite powwow foods included:
Walking tacos
Fry bread
Cheese fries
Burgers
Boba
Root beer floats
Walking tacos with Takis
Many students shared funny and memorable stories about food—like saving snacks only to find siblings had eaten them all.
Powwow Memories & Stories
Some students shared powerful memories from powwows.
There were stories about:
People dancing so much they became overheated
Community members helping when someone got sick
Ambulances arriving quickly
Family members watching out for each other
Learning how important safety and care are at large gatherings
These stories showed how powwows are not just celebrations, but places where community care matters.
Favorite Powwows
Students shared their favorite powwows, including:
Homecoming Powwow
Macy Powwow
Ponca Powwow
Some students shared experiences of competing and earning prize money, and how exciting it felt to dance in big arenas with many people watching.
Closing
Powwows are important because they bring people together, celebrate culture, honor ancestors, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Thank you for listening to The BAGO Mic.
We hope our voices made you think, feel, or smile today.
Remember:
Your voice matters.
Our story matters.
And you matter.
Thank you. See you next time.