About

I’m Shannon LaRance, and my most cherished title is So’oh (the Hopi word for grandmother). This channel is a labor of love, born from a desire to connect with my grandchildren and a deep commitment to sharing the power and beauty of Indigenous stories.

My Heritage and Journey

I am a proud Indigenous woman, Diné (Navajo) on my mother’s side, and Hopi and Assiniboine on my father’s side. I was born in Tuba City, Arizona, and left the reservation to pursue my education. I am now the Matriarch of my family, a partner, a mother to four young adults, and a grandmother to five.

My lifelong love affair with reading began in childhood. As the oldest sibling to a single mom, I often found solace and adventure within the pages of books. I would check out the maximum number of books from the school library, traveling to faraway lands and learning about different cultures through stories. This early passion for reading ignited my belief in its power to educate, empower, and connect us.

Professional Path: Indigenous Empowerment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and counselor, holding both a BSW and MSW from Arizona State University. My professional journey has been dedicated to serving others, from managing a 24/7 crisis response network to ensuring quality care for individuals with cognitive disabilities.

This experience led me to create Indigenous Empowerment in 2012. Based in Phoenix, our mission is to empower Native individuals and families in both rural and urban communities.

The Story of So’oh Story Time

So’oh Story Time began as a simple, heartfelt placeholder for me to read stories to my grandchildren from afar. When I shared the idea, something beautiful happened: people were interested in sharing this resource with their own children and grandchildren.

The channel evolved into a passion project dedicated to diversity and representation. I made a commitment that half of the books I read and highlight would be authored by Native American authors and/or illustrators. This ensures all children can see themselves in stories and learn about the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures.

The name “So’oh” is a special tribute to my own grandmother, Winifred. She was one of my greatest inspirations—a kind, funny woman whose unconditional love and best hugs I strive to pass on to my own grandchildren.

Honoring the Oral Tradition

Indigenous peoples have strong storytelling traditions. Our histories, cultural beliefs, and moral lessons have been passed down through the oral tradition for generations, connecting our past, present, and future and strengthening our communities.

“So’oh Story Time” is my way of honoring that tradition in a modern format. By sharing stories—especially those written by Native authors and illustrators—we continue this vital practice. It provides moral lessons, reinforces cultural identity, and shows our children that they can be proud of who they are and share their own talents with the world.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Together, we can turn the page to a future where every child feels seen, heard, and empowered.

With gratitude,

Shannon LaRance, So’oh
Founder, Indigenous Empowerment & So’oh Story Time