Courage in the Spotlight: Our First Published Feature
Why this Indian Country Today News article matters, and what it says about my film’s impact!
Seeing Courage featured in ICT News was so exciting because It’s the first published article about the film. As a first-time filmmaker, that’s amazing to see. This isn’t just about recognition; It’s about the story reaching people, resonating, and hopefully sparking something in those who watch.
Written by Sandra Hale Schulman, the article takes a thoughtful and generous approach to the film. One thing I really appreciated was how Pauly didn’t just summarize the plot or list accolades, she got to the heart of Courage. She highlighted the reasons behind it, the emotional weight it carries, and the cultural importance of the story being told.
What stood out to me most was how the article framed Courage as a response to a common experience among Indigenous youth. Especially those growing up in urban environments. That sense of disconnection, of being seen as “less Native” or as somehow existing outside of tradition, is something I’ve felt deeply. And it’s something this film tries to speak to, not by offering easy answers, but by showing the real process of reconnecting. Pauly captured that nuance, and I’m so grateful for it.
She also highlighted the mentorship aspect of the film, how learning from my uncle Terry Goedel became a turning point for me. That’s something I hope people take away from Courage: that community, mentorship, and cultural knowledge are lifelines. They're not relics of the past. They’re living, breathing parts of who we are.
It’s surreal to see my personal story reflected in a national Indigenous publication. But more than that, it’s moving to see how this story, one I once felt nervous to share, can now serve as a mirror for others who are navigating their own journeys of identity and belonging.
I hope this is just the beginning. I want to keep bringing Courage to more audiences, more conversations, and more spaces where Indigenous stories are not only seen but truly felt.
If you haven’t read the article yet, you can find it here. And if you’re interested in hosting a screening or learning more, reach out.
