Insight in Indian Country Podcast

Trusted Expertise to Serve Tribal Nations

In this powerful episode of Insight in Indian Country, host Wesley Benally welcomes Sean McCabe, CPA and Controller of the Navajo Nation, for a candid discussion about building a meaningful legacy in tribal finance. With nearly 30 years of accounting experience, Sean reflects on what it means to leave a lasting impact that “my kids could be proud of, my people could be proud of.” As a member of the Salt People Clan and Red Running into the Water Clan, Sean shares how he navigates his role as one of the key financial leaders of the largest tribal nation in the country, always keeping service to the community at the forefront.

The conversation delves into the unique challenges and opportunities of tribal financial leadership, where cultural values and business decisions intertwine. Sean offers valuable insights into the critical need for Native representation in senior financial positions across Indian Country, encouraging the next generation to step up to the plate: “We need more young Native American people at the top that can really lead discussions and lead communities and tribes in a direction that we’ve never seen before.”

Through their discussion, both leaders emphasize that true success isn’t just about winning or losing, but about doing things “the right way” and maintaining the values inherited from their ancestors while pushing for progress. Sean’s journey illustrates how professional excellence and cultural identity can work together to create a legacy that serves the people.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction and Welcome
02:14 – Sean’s Background and Cultural Identity
04:14 – Blending Cultural Values with Professional Practice
08:27 – Navigating Leadership in Tribal Finance
13:16 – Native Representation in Professional Positions
17:48 – Sources of Inspiration and Motivation
22:22 – Building a Professional Legacy
26:16 – Reflections on Native American Heritage Month
29:31 – Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

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REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs. Thanks for listening!

Meet Your Host

Wesley Ryan Benally, CPA

REDW Principal and National Tribal Practice Leader

As the leader of REDW’s National Tribal Practice, Wes is committed to improving financial literacy throughout Indian Country and hosts the Insight in Indian Country Podcast. He oversees audits of a wide range for Native American communities, state and local government agencies, and non-profits nationwide, is a member of the Arizona State Board of Accountancy’s Peer Review Oversight Advisory Committee, and serves as an instructor with Arizona State University’s American Indian Policy Institute. In addition, as a Board member for a tribal gaming entity that operates in two states, Wes keeps up with regulatory issues important to tribal gaming operations. Wes is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation.