Behind the Rez with Sterlin Harjo – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to Behind the Rez with Sterlin Harjo—the unscripted podcast where we take you behind the scenes of Reservation Dogs. Sponsored by Tulsa Film Collective, this podcast is one of many projects we are taping and producing in Tulsa, Oklahoma. 

Every episode, we're sitting down with the cast, crew, and creators to talk about what it was like to make this Emmy nominated and groundbreaking series, the highs, the lows, and the stuff you don’t see on camera. So grab a seat, because we're giving you an inside look at the heart and soul 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
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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

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

Follow us on Instagram
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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

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

Follow us on Instagram
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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

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

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