Russell Sun Eagle of Tulsa, Oklahoma on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Russell Sun Eagle and have shared our conversation below.

Russell , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
Right now, I’m a multimedia journalist for Crosswinds News. Journalism is still new to me. I’ve always liked writing, but I used to be afraid to share it. This new venture has helped me step back into that creative space. I’ve also learned a different approach to interviewing people, which has pushed me to grow. The mindset I have now encourages me to step outside my comfort zone and give my best effort with every new opportunity. I’m grateful for the chance to represent Crosswinds News and showcase my people in creative and meaningful ways.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Russell Sun Eagle. I’m a multimedia journalist for Crosswinds news. Im also the owner and operator of Sun Eagle Media focusing on photography, videography, and podcasting. As a journalist I love to showcase my people in our native district. I love highlighting actors, entrepreneurs, musicians, activists, filmmakers and artists. Sun Eagle Media focuses on content creation for events, weddings, comedy shows, concerts, MMA ,football, wrestling and more.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad taught me a lot about work. I always remember my dad just mentioning no matter what you have to put in work with whatever it is you’re trying to do. At a young age I didn’t understand too much about what he was talking about. With everything I’ve been doing over the past 5 years a truly understand it now. These 5 years have gone by so fast. It’s really taught me how to stay mentally ready and become the person I always knew I could be. It’s been a struggle but that’s the beauty of it. I get to look back and see where I was and see where I am now. Seeing the hard work pay off down the line is something to see. That’s what my dad always did. He made it a goal to go to work no matter what. My dad passed away almost 2 years ago now. My dad’s passing changed my life. It’s been a struggle to adapt without my dad but I

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I mentioned earlier that my dad passed away in 2024. After that, I felt completely lost and had no idea what to do next. All I could think about were those last two weeks in the hospital with him. It was traumatizing to witness everything. My dad was the strongest person I knew mentally and physically so watching him deteriorate right in front of me was something I never thought I’d have to experience. After his funeral, the reality of the loss hit me. I started to truly grieve. I didn’t want to do anything. I wanted to stay in bed and stop moving forward altogether. But slowly, I began getting up more and thinking about what my dad would want for me. I know he wouldn’t want me to give up. He would want me to keep thriving and continue the work I had already started. I had to remind myself that the world wouldn’t stop just because I stopped. everything keeps going. That’s when I fell in love with photography. Taking photos and editing them took my mind to another place and helped me reconnect with myself. It became a way to heal, to focus, and to feel grounded again. I’m still adapting to life without my dad, but I feel a lot better knowing he’s with me wherever I go.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to helping and showcasing our Indigenous people. Too often, we don’t get the proper spotlight to show who we truly are or the accomplishments we’re capable of. As long as I’m here, I’m going to keep working hard and continue being here for my people.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing? 
I never want to live with the regret of not trying. Over the past five years, I’ve grown so much and learned to give my best effort in everything I do. When I was younger, I passed up great opportunities because I was scared of what people might think or afraid of failing.
Now, I want every opportunity I can get. I’m not afraid to fail, because I know I can get back up and try again. I’m not worried about what others think anymore. their opinions don’t define me.

All that matters is being able to look back and tell myself that I tried my hardest.

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