KZYX&Z’s Be More Now Features Eric and Karen Wilder
Tune into KZYX&Z’s Be More Now program at 7pm on Thursday October 2 (or catch the recording on spotify) when host Blake More will be speaking with Native Arts Expo Founders Eric and Karen Wilder, two Coast Pomo Natives who are dedicated to uplifting indigenous artists and creating cultural exchange through art.
They’ll be talking about art, native American culture, the upcoming Native Artts Expo and how to align with more care, clarity and heart in all we do.
Eric Wilder (Kashia Band of Pomo Indians) grew up on the Kashaya Reservation near Stewarts Point and is the grandson of Kashaya Spiritual Leader Essie Parrish. Immersed in cultural traditions from an early age, he learned ceremonial songs, plant uses, and family responsibilities, serving as a fire tender, feather dancer, Big Head Dancer, and eventually a Headman for his family.
Eric’s passion for art led him into the video game industry as an animator, storyboard artist, and concept designer, before returning home to apply his skills to cultural and language preservation. He has served as Tribal Secretary and Chairman, created educational resources for his community, and shared Kashaya knowledge through lectures, storytelling, and graphic design. Today, Eric continues his work as an artist, educator, and community leader, guided by his grandmother’s teaching: “Each one of you has a talent, don’t hide it—bring it out for everyone to see, especially the young ones.”
Karen Wilder (Manchester-Point Arena Band of Pomo Indians) grew up on the Manchester-Point Arena Rancheria and has always carried a deep appreciation for the arts. While her career began in organizational and management roles—including work with the California Rural Indian Health Board, launching the Garcia River Casino, and helping establish the Tribal Head Start program—those experiences became the foundation for her later work supporting community projects and events like the Native Arts Expo, which she co-coordinates with her husband, Eric Wilder.
Karen earned her B.A. in Native American Studies from UC Davis, grounding her work in cultural understanding and community perspective. Her professional path reflects a commitment to building systems and opportunities that strengthen Indigenous communities, whether through health, education, or the arts. Today, Karen runs her own design business, where she blends creativity with strategy to help small businesses, and artists shine online.
The show originally airs on KZYX&Z 90.7FM Philo, 88.1FM Fort Bragg, and 91.5FM Willits, as well as streams on the web www.kzyx.org.