On this episode of Impact Unfiltered, we shine a spotlight on impactful leadership and legacy in Native American communities. Recorded live from the Self Governance 2025 conference—the 50-year celebration of tribal self-determination—host Philippe welcomes Wallace Apland, Chief Financial Officer of the Ho Chunk Nation Department of Health. Wally shares how his unique role stretches far beyond managing budgets, as he helps tribal members access vital healthcare benefits and supports holistic community wellness. With engaging personal stories and insights from years of experience, Wally reflects on the power of self-governance, the importance of mentorship for future leaders, and the life-changing impact of giving tribal members access to quality healthcare. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about innovation, perseverance, and the enduring ripple effect of positive change in tribal country.
1. Podcast and Series Introduction
- Focus on real conversations with leaders in healthcare, business, and community
- Introduction of the special series on leadership and legacy in Native American/Tribal communities
- Mention of Self Governance 2025 conference and its 50-year anniversary
2. Guest Introduction
- Introduction of Wallace Apland (Wally)
- Current role: Chief Financial Officer, Ho Chunk Nation Department of Health
- Responsibilities: Overseeing all health operations, departments (pharmacy, medical, optical, dental), budgets, cash flow, financial software
3. Wallace Apland’s Role in Community
- Clarification of dynamic CFO duties
- Oversight of third-party revenue streams and primary payers
- Collaboration with benefits coordinators (Medicaid, ACA, unique tribal programs)
- Connection to tribal members through information sharing about benefits
- Impact on tribal members, such as informing about available benefits for individuals and families
4. Multifaceted Nature of the Role
- Wearing multiple hats beyond the CFO position
- Long tenure (13 years) and transition from consultant to permanent role
- Growth and expansion of healthcare services:
- Increased number of clinics, staff (doctors, nurses), and specialty services (pediatrics, pharmacies, complexity lab)
- Over 22,000 encounters per year
- Pride in tribe’s trust and health program’s sustainability
5. Reflections on the Self Governance Conference
- Wallace’s conference journey, beginning with first attendance in Reno, Nevada
- Motivations: Education about Title 5 tribe status and networking
- Importance of attending for hands-on connections, learning concepts, and accessing insider expertise
- Benefits of presenters and networking:
- Technical experts, free legal advice, access to federal officials
- Value in gaining actionable insights, small steps leading to innovation and project growth
6. Surprises at the Conference
- Observations on participation:
- Continued strong presence of federal agency representatives despite current media/politics
- Specific mention of federal officials and their accessibility
7. The Meaning of Impact and Legacy
- Wallace’s definition of impact: Taking away influence or learning, especially from expert panels
- Importance of understanding federal statutes (such as 340B pharmacies)
- Leadership and succession:
- Need to bring younger/new individuals to these conferences for exposure and networking
- Example: Bringing new executive director and controller to the event
- Diverse opportunities at the conference (industry vendors, new security/data solutions)
8. Personal Story: Work’s Impact on Tribal Members
- Fulfillment from seeing tribal members access health insurance
- Health outcomes tied to insurance status
- Wallace’s role in maximizing tribal members’ access to health benefits
9. Discussion on "Return on Healthcare"
- Emphasis on measuring impact by health outcomes of the tribal nation/community
- Broader vision: health improvement leading to stronger, healthier communities
10. Tribal Sponsorship Initiatives
- Focus on tribal sponsorship for health insurance for members lacking means
- Efforts to connect members with Medicare, Medicaid, and ACA coverage
- Goal: Empowered tribal members, long-term health improvement
11. Closing Remarks
- Wallace’s willingness to share more in the future
