“We’re still here, we’re thriving.” Native American Heritage Month with Taryn Reynolds, MSL, THRP II

Insight in Indian Country Podcast

Trusted Expertise to Serve Tribal Nations

Wesley Benally welcomes Taryn Reynolds, MSL, THRP II, to the Insight in Indian Country Podcast. Taryn is a proud member of the Osage Nation and Human Resources Consultant at REDW Advisors & CPAs. With a rich background spanning 13 years in tribal government, she shares her unique perspective on blending traditional values with progressive governance in tribal organizations.

In their conversation, Taryn emphasizes how protecting sovereignty extends beyond language preservation into organizational policies. Taryn illustrates how tribal communities can be both progressive and traditional, challenging the “that’s how it’s always been done” mentality while honoring cultural values. Her message resonates with a powerful truth: Native communities aren’t just surviving – they’re thriving and creating sustainable futures for generations to come.

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction and Personal Background
• 03:19 – Cultural Identity in Professional Practice
• 08:27 – Understanding Tribal Sovereignty and HR
• 14:31 – Progressive Approaches to Tribal Governance
• 19:44 – Sources of Inspiration and Mentorship
• 25:14 – Vision for Future Tribal Leaders
• 28:08 – Reflections on Native American Heritage Month
• 30:17 – Closing Thoughts on Ambition and Leadership

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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.

More from Insight in Indian Country

• REDW to Speak at the 2026 WEWIN National Conference
  REDW is heading to Tulsa for the 2026 WEWIN National Conference, where Jessica Goodfox and Taryn Reynolds will lead a workshop on confidence, boundaries, and voice for Indigenous women in leadership.
• REDW to Exhibit and Present at the 2026 Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association (OIGA) Conference
  REDW will exhibit and present at the 2026 OIGA Conference, July 20–22 in Oklahoma City. Visit Booth #517 and join Kandi Link’s panel on casino accounting and audits.
• Oklahoma’s Hiring Demand Is Up Nearly 19%. What Does That Mean for Tribal Employers?
  By Taryn Reynolds, MSL, THRP II, REDW Senior Human Resources Consultant,and Jessica Goodfox, THRP, TMP, HRC Business Partner, REDW Oklahoma’s labor market is among the fastest-growing in the country —… Read more: Oklahoma’s Hiring Demand Is Up Nearly 19%. What Does That Mean for Tribal Employers?
• REDW to Present and Exhibit at the 2026 UNITY National Conference for Native Youth
  REDW is proud to participate in this year’s Conference in Oklahoma City, July 10-14, supporting Native youth leadership and financial literacy through an interactive workshop and on-site engagement.
• 2026 Northwest Indian Gaming Conference & Expo
  REDW is proud to exhibit at the annual Indian Gaming Conference hosted by WIGA, June 15–17 in Shelton, WA. Visit us at Booth #423 to connect and explore insights shaping the future of tribal gaming.