The Indy

Ep. 93 - INSIDE AI: How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping our LivesIn this episode, The Indy host, Rebecca Fairweather, sits down with Assistant Professor of Computer Science and head of the Artificial Intelligence Integration Lab at UC Santa Barbara, Misha Sra. The two discuss the significance of AI and how it will impact our everyday lives. Chat GPT has taken the world by storm with the site having up to 200 million visitors daily. While this is one example of AI, new software and formats of intelligence are evolving quickly. Ever wanted to train for a marathon without a physical coach? Ever needed physical therapy but wanted it in the comfort of your home? These are possibilities AI could potentially work on addressing. Learn more about this and other cool AI features in the episode. Hosted by Rebecca Fairweather.Image Credit: Canva (Ryan King)The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music was written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.

In this episode, The Indy host, Rebecca Fairweather, sits down with Assemblymember Gregg Hart to discuss concerns over the environment and the ongoing housing crisis.The Assemblymember has recently restarted ‘Sidewalk Office Hours' that is available in twelve communities across the central coast including; Orcutt, Guadalupe, Goleta, Santa Barbara, Vandenberg Village, Lompoc, Solvang, Montecito, Summerland, Nipomo, Santa Maria, and Buellton.During his ongoing tenure, Assemblyman Hart has authored numerous bills addressing concerns ranging from the environment to affordable housing. Recently two bills addressing environmental concerns, authored by the Assemblyman, have been approved by California Governor, Gavin Newsom. Assembly Bill 584 allows state and local agencies the ability to aid in the protection of life and property alongside restoration and cleanup as a result of natural disasters. The bill allows the Coastal Commission more flexibility to issue emergency waivers. Assemblyman Hart also introduced AB 631 which increases penalties and enforcement options, empowering state and local enforcement to shut down oil companies with chronic compliance issues.To contact the Assemblyman, visit https://a37.asmdc.org/contact.Hosted by Rebecca Fairweather.Image Caption: Assemblymember Gregg Hart being sworn into the California State Assembly on December 5, 2022. (Courtesy image)The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.The theme music was written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.

EP. 91 - ‘Creatures of the Night' Takeover Santa BarbaraIn this episode, The Indy host, Rebecca Fairweather, sits down with the Creatures of the Night Production Company to talk about their fall performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Story.On October 28th, the company took over UC Santa Barbara's Campbell Hall, performing in front of a sold-out crowd of hundreds. Rocky Horror Picture Show first made its debut in London as an on-stage production becoming a movie adaptation by director Jim Sharman. The film found a home for itself at the Waverly Theater in New York's West Village for midnight screenings. From there, the cult-like fan base began to grow with regulars dressed in full costume and makeup returning week after week. The film showcases queer visibility in a positive light allowing its fans to see themselves represented in roles of empowerment and acceptance.For more information Creatures of the Night Production Company, visit https://www.instagram.com/rockyhorrorucsb/Hosted by Rebecca Fairweather.Image Credit: Rebecca FairweatherImage Caption: Production company “Creatures of the Night” performing their fall production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show on October 28th at Campbell Hall.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music was written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.

In this episode, The Indy host, Rebecca Fairweather, talks with Santa Barbara residents about the newest symphony flowing through the blocks of State Street. Coming back for National Arts and Humanities Month, ‘Pianos on State' is celebrating its thirteenth year, featuring 14 uniquely painted pianos scattered among the Santa Barbara Area. Local artists in the area painted each piano in vibrant colors, lighting up street corners with interactive artwork. The initiative seeks to reintroduce the arts into people's everyday lives, opening creativity up to all those seeking its pleasures. Whether you've never played a key or are familiar with its locks, the wonders of the piano are inclusive to all. For more information on where you can spot a piano, visit https://www.pianosonstate.com/ -----------Hosted by Rebecca Fairweather.mage Credit: Rebecca FairweatherThe Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music was written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.

EP. 89: Dahlia's Roots - How Santa Barbara Blossomed the Black DahliaIn this episode, The Indy host, Rebecca Fairweather, discusses the infamous case of the 1947 murder mystery, the Black Dahlia, and her connection to Santa Barbara. As a former resident of the American Riviera, Elizabeth Short's brief residence led to her notorious mugshot image that cemented her fame and aided in identifying her mutilated figure.After being arrested for underage drinking at a local bar in El Paseo, Short moved to Los Angeles, where the sight of her murder took place.The Black Dahlia mystery is one of the most famous unsolved murders in United States history and one of the oldest unsolved cases in Los Angeles County. While no suspect has officially been named Short's murderer, many have speculated who might have resulted in the 22-year-old's death.Rebecca Fairweather discusses two men featured on the LA Police Department's top 25 potential suspects list.___________Hosted by Rebecca Fairweather.Cover Image: Santa Barbara police, Public domainThe Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music was written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.

Ep. 88: Renovictions – The New Reality of Santa Barbara ResidentsOn this episode, The Indy host Rebecca Fairweather speaks with Santa Barbara Tenants Union volunteer, Stanley Tzankov, to discuss the ongoing housing crisis impacting the southern coast. As of September 1, the Koto Group took possession of the “West Beach College Commons”, previously known as Casa Pequena, buying the 52-unit apartment building for $16.8 million. Two days before, tenants received notice informing them that their leases would not be renewed and that they must vacate their homes in 30 days. Tzankov is one of the volunteers working on educating and advocating for residents. Hosted by Rebecca Fairweather.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://sbtu.org/For more resources, visit: SB Tenant Help Desk Housing Authority of the City of Santa BarbaraLegal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara CountyIndependent Living Resource CenterUnited Way Of Santa Barbara CountyIsla Vista Tenants UnionRental Housing MediationBuilding & Safety | City of Santa Barbara

On this episode, The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg talks with Chumash community members about their effort in revitalizing the first language of Santa Barbara spoken by the Barbareno band called ‘alapkaswa.' Ernestine Ygnacio-De Soto, illustrator of the children's book “The Sugar Bear Story,” narrates a Chumash tale of being a good host. Working together with her late mother and the last native speaker of the Chumash dialect Mary Yee, the book is available in English and traditional Barbareno. Then, linguistics graduate student at UC Santa Barbara James Yee joined The Indy reporter Hannah Weaver on the podcast to discuss his passion for reviving his ancestral language. Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany. Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://www.sbnature.org/collections-research/anthropology/chumash-life/

The Old Spanish Days Fiesta is an annual, five day celebration all about honoring the culture and traditions of Santa Barbara's indigenous, Spanish, Mexican and early American settlers.The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg sat down with Fiesta's 2023 Saint Barbara, Lisa Osborn, to talk about the roots of Fiesta and the responsibility of portraying Saint Barbara. Every year, the Daughters of the Golden West, Reina Del Mar Parlor 126 selects one member to portray the patron saint at Fiesta activities.Then, La Fiesta Pequeña, or “Little Fiesta”, is a colorful, historical program showcasing traditional songs and dance from Early California Flamenco to Spanish classical and Mexican Folklorico, kicking off Old Spanish Day in Santa Barbara.The Indy reporter Daniel Huecias takes Fiesta Pequeña, interviewing performers, spectators, and El Presidente of Fiesta 2023.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://www.sbfiesta.org

On this episode, The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg sought out some of Santa Barbara's best parenting advice.With the release of the Santa Barbara Independent's online Parenting Guide, Alexandra Goldberg sat down with Indy editors Tyler Hayden and Leslie Dinaberg about some of the topics they covered for the web: how to make friends with other parents, toddler-friendly parks and playgrounds, and easy meals for dads.Then, Santa Barbara criminal defense attorney William C. Makler joined us on the show to discuss youth law— everything parents should know about their child's rights and how to be prepared if your child is approached by police.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.Visit sbindependent.com for the full Indy Parenting Guide.For more information on youth programs, consider:Be Well: 888-868-1649SB Teen Legal Clinic: 805-563-6467Family Services Agency: 805-965-1001CALM: 805-965-2376Daniel Bryant Youth and Family Center (CADA): 805-730-7575Noah's anchorage - YMCA: 805-963-8775

Authors Matt Dorff and Suzanne Dunn had a unique vision for their newly released novel: “The podcast that's an audiobook. The audiobook that's a podcast.”Dorff and Dunn, under the pseudonym L.R. Dorn, wrote a novel and an audiobook in the form of a true crime podcast. One of the main characters, Ryanna Raine, is a podcast host who sleuths out a murder case of a husband and wife in Santa Barbara. The primary suspects are two UC Santa Barbara theater students who tell their side of the story exclusively to Ryanna on her podcast.On this episode of The Indy, hear from Dorff and Dunn about the release of their novel, their creative writing process and why the audio experience is important to them.The authors are holding an event at UC Santa Barbara on Saturday, July 15. RSVP with this link. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/with-a-kiss-we-die-the-making-of-a-multi-voice-audiobook-tickets-653122355547?aff=ebdshpsearchautocompleteHosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany. Other music by Blue Dot Sessions - Etude 12 Taminy.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.

Craig Martin Smith and Stephanie Smith are said to be the first developers with a housing project using the “Builder's Remedy.”The Los Angeles-based duo has plans to build a 30-unit apartment complex with six low-income affordable units in the Lower Riviera. Under the “Builder's Remedy,” the developers are able to sidestep local review processes because the City of Santa Barbara failed to submit housing element drafts on time.But, before the Smith's had footing in the housing development industry, they garnered public reputations for a liposuction practice and cannabis warehouse.On this episode of the Indy, Alexandra Goldberg is joined by the Santa Barbara Independent news reporter Ryan Cruz for an exploration of these housing plans and a glance into who the developers are.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany. Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.Read Ryan Cruz' story: https://www.independent.com/2023/05/31/lipodiesel-weed-wars-whos-behind-santa-barbaras-first-builders-remedy-project/

The work of bees can be traced back to one third of the human diet because of their pollination efforts. The Indy reporter Chiloé Spelius interviewed local Santana Barbara ranch manager and beekeeper, Jose Luis, on the art and impact that beekeeping has on the Central Coast. Then, the 49th annual Santa Barbara Summer Solstice parade is coming down the block on June 24 at noon. The Indy reporter Raymond Vasquez sat down with DJ Darla Bea to talk about the “roots” of the parade and what visitors can expect this year.Next, James Joyce's controversial novel “Ulysses” is celebrated each year on June 16 in an event called Bloomsday. Fans and readers recently visited James Joyce Pub to commemorate the novel's influence on the world of literature and book censorship laws. The Indy reporter Rebecca Fairweather spoke with author and Bloomsday event coordinator Jim Buckley about the impact of “Ulysses” and how the community celebrated.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany. Other tracks used include Ola and IOverjoy by Ketsa; Valladolid Funeral and Cloud Line by Blue Dot Sessions.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://www.solsticeparade.com/

In 1972, ornithologist George Hunt and anthropologist Molly Warner discovered homosexuality in the natural world— a turning point for the science and queer community. The scientists found female-female nesting pairs in a seagull colony on Santa Barbara Island, 38 miles off of our coast.Joining us on the show this week is Lulu Miller, co-host of WNYC Studios Radiolab, to talk about the ripple effects this discovery had on science, politics and acceptance in the queer community.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany. Other track used is Big Feeling Man by Blue Dot Sessions.Sound effects by freesfx.co.uk; http://www.freesfx.co.uk.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://radiolab.org/podcast/seagulls

The third annual Santa Barbara Surf Film Festival is taking place at the Lobero Theatre on June 9 and 10, showcasing films that celebrate Central Coast surf culture.The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg sat down with Heidi van den Oever to talk about how surf, film and environmentalism is making for an inspiring exhibition this weekend and what attendees can expect at the festival.Then, June marks LGBTQ+ Pride Month, a month-long observance celebrating the contributions of LGBTQ+ people around the world. Here in the valleys of Santa Barbara County, Pride festivities are underway, but not without obstacles.The Indy reporter Daniel Huecias spoke with Matthew and Kiel Cavalli, co-founders of the Rainbow House Inc. based in Solvang, and Suzette Lopez, President of the House of Pride and Equality in Santa Maria, to discuss the significance of LGBTQ representation in the valleys of the Central Coast. Lastly, El Presidio State Park sits atop the sacred site of Santa Barbara's Japantown and Chinatown that welcomed first generation Asian American immigrants to the California shore. The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation is working on honoring these communities after their shared spaces along the 100 block of East Canon Perdido and 800 Anacapa were closed down by the late 1950s.The Indy reporter Rebecca Fairweather sat down with Kevin McGarry to talk about the rich history of El Presidio.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.Pride in the Santa Ynez Valley segment at 8:00. AAPI Heritage in El Presidio segment at 32:15.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Theme music written by Molly McAnany. Other tracks used include Just Because and Sinking by Ketsa; Endeavor by Descript Media; Persimmon St., In Time We Shall, and Mangion by Blue Dot Sessions.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://www.santabarbarasurffilmfestival.com/https://www.therainbowhouseinc.com/https://www.houseofprideandequality.org/https://www.sbthp.org/

What is the future of the State Street promenade? The Santa Barbara City Council settled on a $2 per square foot rate for outdoor dining parklets in April. But, discussions about the rates have been a hot topic in the City Council since January, where the original resolution charged businesses between $3-12 per square foot. While the fees are said to pay for the high maintenance costs of State Street, downtown business owners are pushing back. Randy Rowse, mayor of the City of Santa Barbara, sat down with The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg to talk about how State Street will adapt to upcoming changes regarding parklets, transportation, vacancies and meeting American Disability Act requirements.Then, Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt spoke at UCSB's Arts and Lectures about taking back the momentum of antisemitic extremism and conspiracy theories on May 22. The Indy reporter Chiloe Spelius was joined by Dan Meisel, regional director of the Anti-Defamation League Santa Barbara/Tri-Counties, who brought this conversation into a local lens. Meisel discusses the rise of antisemitism, antisemitic incidents in Santa Barbara County and the importance of teaching anti-hate in the community. Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.Fighting antisemitism segment begins at 27:00.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://santabarbaraca.gov/government/mayor-city-councilhttps://santabarbara.adl.org

The Taste of Santa Barbara is in full swing, and The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg got a glimpse at the week-long food and drink celebration.Joining us on the show this week is Todd Schulkin, Executive Director of the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, who talked about how Julia Child inspired the culinary world to know where your food comes from.Julia Child is a culinary educator who spent her summers in Santa Barbara, and became a popular television personality on her series The French Chef. Her legacy on the culinary world remains, inspiring cooking schools like Apples to Zucchini to take part in her mission of food education.Alexandra visited A to Z Cooking School for Pascale Beale's “Souffle Perfection” class, and also spoke with Nancy Martz, executive director of the school, and Jeff King, coordinator of adult cooking classes.Then, The Indy reporter Rebecca Fairweather explored Terre et Sang in Los Olivos, a vineyard operated by a mother-son duo who share the same passion for grapes and family. Rebecca sat down with Duncan and Dalita Harmon to chat about why they call winemaking “a labor of love.”Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.Terre et Sang segment begins at 28:27.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Music for this episode written by Molly McAnany and Ketsa.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://sbce.events/https://www.terreetsang.com/

The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg spoke with Salud Carbajal, the U.S. representative for California's 24th congressional district, about the 2023 Farm Bill.The Farm Bill is a multiyear, nationwide legislative package that governs food assistance programs and agriculture in the United States. It's broken down into 12 sections, or titles, that are said to impact every family in our community.Carbajal joined us this week on The Indy to talk about which programs are most integral to the Central Coast and how the community can get their voices heard in the House Agriculture Committee.Then, The Indy reporter Chiloe Spelius covered the history behind Cinco de Mayo and how the annual celebration empowers the Mexican American community.She spoke with Melinda Gandara, an adjunct faculty member in the Department of American Ethnic Studies at Santa Barbara City College and a trained art historian, who shared her story of finding historical truth.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://carbajal.house.gov/farmbill/

On this week's episode, The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg sat down with the Santa Barbara chapter of Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit dedicated to providing resources amid the affordable housing crisis. Habitat Santa Barbara aims to repair homes, clean up neighborhoods, construct homes with affordable mortgages, and advocate for fair housing policies. Joining us on the show today is Jessica de L'Arbre, Habitat Santa Barbara's CEO, to discuss the affordable housing initiatives and resources they offer to the community.Crush Bar & Tap, Santa Barbara's only “official” gay bar, is currently listed for sale at a reduced price. With the bar in search of a new owner, patrons fear the loss of a safe space for LGBTQ people. This week, Daniel Huecias sits down with Feltaan, drag queen and host at Crush Bar & Tap, discussing the significance of the bar's presence here in Santa Barbara. The Santa Barbara Independent is hosting its inaugural Wine Week. Thirty-three establishments will be pouring $10 glasses until May 3.The Indy reporter Rebecca Fairweather joined Sam Marmorstien, owner of Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe, to chat about the unique business that brings the farm and vineyard to the table.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.Music for this episode written by Molly McAnany and Blue Dot Sessions.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://www.sbhabitat.org/https://www.independent.com/2023/04/26/welcome-to-santa-barbara-wine-week/

This week, The Indy is celebrating National Poetry Month and Earth Day.The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg sat down with George Yatchisin, host of the ninth annual “Spirits in the Air: Potent Potable Poetry” reading that went down at The Good Lion bar on April 19. All of the poems are about libations, or alcohol. “This event will attest to the multi-faceted ways poets have found inspiration, solace, and yes, sometimes sickness in the bottle. Now in its ninth year, this event makes clear just how fun poetry can be, and we all look forward to getting to celebrate Poetry Month together, with a delicious drink in hand,” Yatchisin said in a press release.As April is National Poetry Month, Yatchisin joined us on the show to talk about how this event aims to connect the Santa Barbara community with poetry over a glass of wine— maybe a cocktail— or whatever attendees prefer at the no-host bar.Then, The Indy reporter Chiloé Spelius-Olave spoke with ​​Kathi King about the upcoming 2023 Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival. King is the director of climate education and leadership at the Community Environmental Council, and she also coordinates the event which is scheduled for April 29-30 at Alameda Park.Earth Day originated in Santa Barbara after the 1969 oil spill in the Santa Barbara Channel. Now, community members come together to celebrate environmental advocacy in the birthplace of the movement.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://www.sbearthday.org/

On this week's episode, The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg sat down with The Starfish Connection, a Santa Barbara-based nonprofit that provides emergency gap grants to families in need.The nonprofit partners with Hospice of Santa Barbara, Teddy Bear Cancer Pediatric Foundation, and Bethel House, providing financial assistance— one starfish at a time.Hear from the founder, Virginia Benson Wigle, and executive director, Sarah Abrams, who joined us on the show to talk about how The Starfish Connection is helping residents with sudden financial crises.The Indy reporter Rebecca Fairweather then spoke with UC Santa Barbara's Environmental Affairs Board to discuss the environmental impacts of the Santa Barbara pipeline, if it reopens on the coastline.Members of the Santa Barbara community are worried that the reemergence of pipeline 901 could mean environmental degradation and loss of marine life for the Santa Barbara coastline.The Plains Pipeline Development project seeks to revive line 901, looking to install safety valves to ensure oil containment and prevent a spill from occurring. Environmental organizations and climate activists have begun advocating for the dismissal of this project.Joining us on the show is president of UCSB's Environmental Affairs Committee, Kat Lane, and the group's program advisor, Sarah Siedschlag.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information, visit: https://www.thestarfishconnection.org/https://eab.as.ucsb.edu/

Santa Barbara Unified School District presented plans for a $1.3 million “Summer of Learning” program at a district board of education meeting in February.The program is designed to assist elementary school students in meeting STAR testing requirements and to get secondary school students college and career ready. A group of 540 elementary school students will be identified by teachers and administration to work on English Language Arts, English Language Development, and Math requirements.The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg spoke with elementary superintendent Stanley Monroe and secondary superintendent Lynne Sheffield about their goals for this ‘student-centered' initiative.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.

On this week's episode, The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg sat down with local emergency services to find out if Santa Barbara and Goleta are prepared to face a natural disaster.Torrential rains saturated Santa Barbara County this winter season, forcing shut-downs and evacuation orders due to the severity of the storms. The Indy Podcast explored storm safety, along with a conversation about the threat of earthquakes, wildfires and tsunamis. Stacey Rosenberger, emergency services manager for the city of Santa Barbara, and Michael Baris, emergency services coordinator for the city of Goleta, direct four areas of disaster management: preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery. Tune into this week's episode for the full conversation about community safety during a natural disaster.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.To learn more about emergency emergency preparedness, here is a free, one-hour course taught by Michael Baris: https://www.cityofgoleta.org/your-city/neighborhood-services/emergency-preparedness/community-disaster-education-course

On this week's episode of The Indy, host Alexandra Goldberg explored the ancient origins of the Oaxacan sport pelota mixteca and its strong community in Santa Barbara.Pelota mixteca originated thousands of years ago in Southern Mexico. Once played deep in the mountains of Oaxaca during Spanish rule, with the independence of Mexico came a revival of the sport— now a prominent pastime for the region. When groups migrated to the United States in the 1980s, they brought their intricately crafted and adorned pelota mixteca gloves with them and formed teams all over California and Texas. In Santa Barbara, the team gathers every Thursday for a traditional game of pelota mixteca with their friends and family at Santa Barbara High School. But, the patch of dirt they play on is too small and uneven. The players wish two things: to get a better playing court and to pass the game to the next generation. Alexandra Goldberg spoke with Independent news reporter Ryan Cruz about the origins and traditions of the game, then with pelota mixteca player Fernando Cruz about the importance of keeping the tradition alive. City council member Oscar Gutierrez joined us on the show to talk about his initiative to get the players a better place to practice, and how community support is integral.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.To contact city council member Oscar Gutierrez about a potential pelota mixteca court, you can reach him at OGutierrez@SantaBarbaraCA.gov.

Throughout the 11 days of cinematic escape, The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg caught some of the red carpet buzz at the 38th annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF).SBIFF attracted some of Hollywood's biggest icons and an attractive list of 200 films to celebrate cinema's biggest accomplishments this year.Alexandra Goldberg interviewed 2023 Maltin Modern Master Award recipient Jamie Lee Curtis on the carpet, along with more crew members from the hit sci-fi film Everything Everywhere All At Once. The iconic Santa Barbara awards ceremony was also beaming with stars from the film Tár and The Whale, and this episode of The Indy has a SBIFF Red Carpet recap of those three highly accoladed films.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.The Indy: A Podcast was co-created by Molly McAnany and the Santa Barbara Independent. All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information about SBIFF visit:https://sbiff.org/And for a comprehensive list of SBIFF stories, visit the SB Independent:https://www.independent.com/?s=&category_name=sbiff

On this episode of The Indy, join us for a ride-a-long Dream Delivery with Dream Foundation.Dream Foundation is a Santa Barbara-based nonprofit with the goal to provide inspiration, comfort, and closure to terminally-ill adults in the form of an end-of-life dream. Founded in 1994, the organization has delivered more than 34,000 dreams nationwide to adults with a life expectancy of 12 months or less. Dream Foundation also provides programs for veterans and children of terminally-ill parents.Alexandra Goldberg sat down with Lamar Pugh, a Dream recipient who was granted a trip to Florida with his best friend Daniel Ontiveros. Also joining us on the show today is Dream Foundation CEO Kisa Heyer, Vice President of Programs Barbara Schoch, and Dream Coordinator Rebecca Steiger to chat about the unique palliative care this organization provides across the nation.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support and contact podcast@independent.com for advertisements.For more information about Dream Foundation visit:https://www.dreamfoundation.org/

This week, the Santa Barbara Independent covered some of Santa Barbara's top self-care businesses for a special edition cover story. This episode of The Indy features Jordan Treece from Farmacy, the first cannabis dispensary to open in Santa Barbara since the legalization of recreational cannabis use. The Indy host Alexandra Goldberg and Santa Barbara Independent Web Content Manager Don Brubaker sat down with Treece to learn more about the medicinal options at the shop which work to treat a variety of physical ailments or remedy mental health.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support. For more information: https://farmacyshop.com/#To read this story in print: https://www.independent.com/2023/01/25/farmacy-dispensary-has-the-prescription-for-personal-wellness/

Law for Paws, the legal resource service founded by Robin Unander in 2009, works to support pet-owning tenants in legal disputes with their landlords. Unander realized that many animals were in shelters due to home evictions, so Law for Paws grew out of the need for animal advocacy. The Santa Barbara-based nonprofit educates tenants about the law behind having a reasonable accommodation for an emotional support animal in a lease. Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.For more information: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086132483617

This holiday season, ShelterBox believes “everyone has something to give.” The Indy sat down with ShelterBox President Kerri Murray and Communications Director Jeremy Jacobs to discuss their winter initiative to provide basic necessities to families displaced in conflict or crisis zones. ShelterBox had a major impact in 2022 sending shelter and equipment to families in Ukraine, Pakistan, Eastern Africa– in addition to families impacted in several other ongoing disaster zones— which has since depleted their inventory. The Santa Barbara-based nonprofit is encouraging families around the world to give back and purchase life-saving equipment that will directly help disaster relief abroad.Hosted by Alexandra Goldberg.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.For more information: https://www.shelterboxusa.org/winter/

It's opening week for UCSB Arts & Lectures' 2022-23 season! On this week's episode, we sit down with Celesta Belleci, Miller McCune Executive Director for UCSB Arts & Lectures, Caitlin O'Hara, Director of Public Lectures and Special Initiatives, as well as Charles Donelan, Senior Writer and Publicist, to talk about the new season line-up and what's to come this fall. This year's theme emphasizes challenging the status quo and inspiring the next generation to be change-makers.

On this episode of The Indy, we speak with artist Mary Heebner to chat about the early days of the recently closed Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara and Contemporary Arts Forum. As of August 28th, the premier contemporary art venue shared that it couldn't bear the financial strain anymore and closed its doors permanently. Heebner was one of the early members of CAF and supported its endeavors in creating a collaborative space for artists across the country. Although Heebner is sorry to see it go, she shares that the art scene is still thriving in Santa Barbara and celebrates her most recent exhibit launch at the Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara Gallery which is open until November 5.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.For more information:Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara Announces August ClosureMary Heebner's Latest Work at Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara Gallery: ‘Prayer Flags & A Tale of Longing'

On this episode of The Indy, freelance reporter for the Santa Barbara Independent Zoë Schiffer shares more about this week's cover story where she dissects accessibility to childcare in Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara is a unique case; pre-K programs are impacted and there are few licensed childcare centers in the area. This is leading many parents to forgo waitlists and pay thousands of dollars out of pocket for childcare so that they can return to work. Zoë shares her own experience as a new mother and debriefs the stories of five local families who have struggled through the financial and emotional burden of securing care for their children.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.Check out the cover story here:'The Kids Are Alright. Are the Parents?'

On this episode of The Indy, we speak with Mark Morey, the Surfrider Foundation Santa Barbara Chapter Chair, and Ken Palley, longtime activist, executive committee member, and former chair about the foundation's mission and history of their environmental work along the Gaviota Coast. They share more about their battles with developers over land, community outreach projects, and the importance of upholding environmental legislation that protects preservations.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.For more information on the Santa Barbara Surfrider Foundation:Santa Barbara Chapter - Surfrider FoundationIsla Vista Chapter - Surfrider FoundationHow to Get Involved

On this episode of The Indy, we sit down with Bradley Bennett, Owner and ‘Principal Pickle' of Pacific Pickle Works in Santa Barbara to talk about the manufacturing industry in Santa Barbara. Bradley shares more about their 'cheeky' product line of pickled vegetables, the creation of the brand, and the challenges that they have faced over the past year as a small business and local manufacturer based in Santa Barbara.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.For more information on Pacific Pickle Works:Pacific Pickle Works WebsiteUnpacking the Success of Pacific Pickle WorksIf you'd like to see one of your favorite local businesses spotlighted on The Indy, please reach out to podcast@independent.com.

On this episode of The Indy, we sit down with Jen Faust, CEO of Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara to discuss the future of their community programs as well as to clear up any confusion about the recent closure of their Eastside center. Jen shares Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara's plan to restructure their outreach and bring long-time favorites as well as new specialized programs directly to schools in the district.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.For more information on Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara:Strategic Direction & Ortega Property SaleFall ProgramsSchool Outreach ProgramsShe.Is.Beautiful Race, September 17th

On this episode of The Indy, Host Molly McAnany heads to the Santa Barbara Bowl to get a behind the scenes look at one of the city's most iconic and oldest music venues. Moss Jacobs, head of talent booking at the bowl, discusses his time working with artists and in the music industry as Slightly Stoopid prepares to take the stage in the background. Since partnering with Goldenvoice many years ago, the SB Bowl has been able to host a ‘broad catalog of world-class artists,' making it a worthy competitor for live music venues around the country. Jacobs shares that the Bowl is small but mighty, highlighting how the Santa Barbara Bowl Foundation has remained true to the architecture of Santa Barbara and the community at large. Jacobs emphasizes that their team of locals will continue to keep this venue lively for many years to come.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.Sources referenced on this episode:Moss Jacobs, Santa Barbara BowlSanta Barbara Bowl Lineup 2022

On this episode of The Indy, Host Molly McAnany sits down with Spencer the Gardner, one of the very active veterans of the local music scene whose work infuses Santa Barbara's surf heritage with Latin rock and cumbia sounds. Spencer has journeyed around the world and back to Santa Barbara where he says ‘Spencer the Gardener' was eventually born. We talk about his time playing in London with his band The Tan, his Latin and Irish music influences, the power of radio, and how he's seen the music industry change over the years.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.Sources referenced on this episode:Who is Spencer the Gardener?The Tan - We're Hanging Out (1982)Life of the Party, Man About Town

On this episode of The Indy, we were talking about the supply chain issues facing farmers on the Central Coast. Water, land, gas, and most recently, food are all hitting record high costs and are expected to keep rising throughout the rest of 2022. Many Californians are asking, ‘Why are general food items and certain products climbing along with inflation?' Dana Olsen from the John Given's Farm shares that growers need to make up for high costs, and this is the only way how. Annmarie Cameron, head of the Mental Wellness Center, also joins the show to talk about this year's Mental Health Arts Festival as well as some programs that are yet to come to Santa Barbara.All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on Instagram @theindypod to support.Sources referenced on this episode:Food Price Outlook Report - May 2022California Budget and Policy CenterHouse Agriculture Committee 2022 Review of the Farm Bill: Perspectives from the Field - July 7, 2022For further reading:Farmers Sound Alarm Over Coming Food ShortagesEbby's Organic Farm Pushed Out of Ellwood Canyon Property in GoletaWhy Climate Change Could Wither Santa Barbara AgricultureSanta Barbara's Mental Wellness Center Hosts 26th Annual Mental Health Arts Festival

On this episode of The Indy, we host a Juneteenth panel to talk about what the newly recognized federal holiday means to the local Black community. Juneteenth has been celebrated for over 150 years but it was only last year that it became a federal holiday. This week some states have refrained from recognizing and celebrating Juneteenth, even though this is the only holiday on the federal calendar that addresses slavery and emancipation. On this episode, we're joined by Jordan Killebrew co-founder of Juneteenth Santa Barbara, Lawanda Lyons-Pruitt President of the NAACP Santa-Maria Lompoc Branch, and Stirling Nix-Bradley owner of Soul Bites restaurant on State Street to talk about the support and renewal of Black community in Santa Barbara and what kind of conversations around Juneteenth they would like to see happen in the future.Nominations are now open for Best of Santa Barbara, nominate your favorite businesses in over 200 categories at independent.com/bestof2022. Nominations are open now through July 6.Show Notes:All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to be the first to know about new episodes.Special thanks to our co-host for this episode, Professor France Winddance Twine, Ph.D from the University of California, Santa Barbara.Special thanks to our guests on the panel:Jordan Killebrew, Co-Founder of Juneteenth Santa BarbaraLawanda Lyons-Pruitt, President of the NAACP Santa Maria-Lompoc ChapterStirling Nix-Bradley, Owner of Soul Bites Restaurant on StateTo support and donate to the organizations featured on this episode, click the link in bio @theindypod or check out the links below.Donate to Juneteenth SBDonate to the NAACP Santa Maria-Lompoc ChapterGrab a bite to eat at Soul Bites located on 423 State Street to show support for a local, Black-owned business.For further information/resources:What is Juneteenth?The Black Power Mixtape

On this episode of The Indy, we were talking about Santa Barbara's Summer Solstice. Solstice has a long local history, starting in 1974 when street artists decided to put on a parade to celebrate the longest day of the year. This weekend on June 24th and 25th Solstice will be celebrating its 48th year with the theme SHINE. In addition to the parade, which begins Saturday on Santa Barbara Street at high noon, DJ Darla Bea (@darlabea) will be spinning some tunes for a Solstice Block Party this Thursday as a part of the celebration. We sit down with her to talk about her plans for this year's parade performance and the music history of Solstice. Then, Rod Lathim joins The Indy to talk about the musical performance he's producing opening this Saturday at the Marjorie Luke Theatre featuring the Shapeshifters.Nominations are now open for Best of Santa Barbara, nominate your favorite businesses in over 200 categories at independent.com/bestof2022. Nominations are open now through July 6.Show Notes:All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Follow ‘The Indy' on social media @theindypod to support.Sources referenced on this episode:About Santa Barbara Summer Solstice 2022DJ Darla Bea's ‘The Soul of Santa Barbara's Summer Solstice Parade' playlistSanta Barbara Super Group Bands Together for Solstice Celebration

On this episode of The Indy, we sit down with Shaun Tomson, former World Surfing Champion and Noah BenShea, philospher and best-selling author of 20 books that have inspired many around the world. Together they wrote The Surfer and the Sage: A Guide to Survive and Ride LIfe's Waves which talks about paving a path of purpose in life. On this episode, we discuss their serendipitous collaboration, letting go of the past, and finding connectivity with others. The book was written and published right here in Santa Barbara and they have already begun their local book tour.Nominations are now open for Best of Santa Barbara, nominate your favorite businesses in over 200 categories at independent.com/bestof2022. Nominations are open now through July 6.Show Notes:All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Sources referenced on this episode:The Surfer and the Sage TrailerShaun Tomson: Live the Code

On this episode of The Indy, we're covering stories about student life as this school year begins to wrap up. Host Molly McAnany speaks with Kendall Pata and Emily, co-leads of Moms Demand Action (@momsdemandactionsb) in Santa Barbara to share their thoughts as mothers and activists fighting for stricter gun regulations. This week, the organization gathered over 200 members to speak out for their children, encouraging those who own guns to practice safe storage and educate themselves on gun safety. Reporter Jennifer Yoshikoshi then takes an in-depth look at the housing crisis for students in Isla Vista and Goleta. She speaks with Valerie Sweatt the owner of the SFM Vista Del Mar property management group about Santa Barbara County, the city of Goleta, and UCSB's long-range development program which was developed in 2010 to combat the issue of over-enrollment by 2025.Show Notes:All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Further Reading:Relationship Between Mass Shootings and SuicideSources referenced in this episode:Moms Demand ActionMoms Demand Action California MeetingGhost GunsCalifornia legislation limiting unserialized firearmsCalifornia's Red Flag LawRed Flag Laws by StateData on Arming TeachersData on Mass ShootingsSchool Shootings 2022UCSB Long-term Development Plan

On this week's episode of The Indy, we're covering the I Madonnari street painting festival hosted by the Children's Creative Project (@childrenscreativeproject), which spans from May 28th to May 30th and brings street artists from around the world to teach the local community about Italian chalk art. We sit down with Kai Tepper, Executive Director of Children's Creative Project and Coordinator of Festival Sponsorships for I Madonnari to talk about this year's festival and how the nonprofit organization continues to grant accessibility to the arts in Santa Barbara. Then, as you heard on last week's episode, reporter Alexandra Goldberg launches the second part of her two part series on the Ukraine-Russia conflict through a local tense. This week she sits down with Oksana Yakushko, a Ukrainian immigrant who has been active in marching and speaking out for Ukrainian support throughout Santa Barbara.Show Notes:All music for this episode written by Molly McAnany.Further reading:#StandWithUkraineSources referenced on this episode:Children's Creative Project - I MadonnariOksana Yakushko

On this week's episode of The Indy, Host Molly McAnany and reporter Jennifer Yoshikoshi cover this week's Taste of Santa Barbara which runs March 16-22. We sat down with Executive Director of the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts to talk about this week's events as well as two local chefs Pascale Beale and Sally Ruhl who were both greatly impacted by Julia Child's legacy. Reporter Alexandra Goldberg then launches her two-part series covering the Ukraine-Russia conflict through a local lens. She sits down U.S. Congressman Salud Carbajal and Santa Barbara County Supervisor Das Williams to discuss local and national legislation regarding this issue.

In honor of Mental Health Month, this episode of The Indy discusses accessibility to mental and physical health facilities in Santa Barbara and throughout California. Host Molly McAnany speaks with Luz Reyes-Martín VP of Engagement and the Action Fund for Planned Parenthood Central Coast about what California is doing to prepare for the potential influx of people seeking reproductive care as women's constitutional right to abortion access has been threatened with the potential overturning of Roe v. Wade. Indy Reporter Jennifer Yoshikoshi sits down with Toni Navarro and Suzanne Grimmesey of the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness to talk about the lack of inpatient psychiatric beds at the state and national level for patients who need and seek help.Additional Information on Topics Discussed:Future of Abortion Council ReportPrograms and Services Offered by the SB Dept. of Behavioral Wellness 2022

On this episode of The Indy, we speak to some young athletes on their journey through sports as well as teachers who are inspiring youth to get active again as we come out of the pandemic. Host Molly McAnany first speaks with the Goodman family made up of quadruplets who all participated in signing day at Santa Barbara High this year as well as contributing writer Victor Bryant who wrote last week's cover on the family. Reporter Alexandra Goldberg dives into physical education at a local elementary school to talk about the programs put on by two P.E. teachers for young students at school.

On this week's episode of The Indy, we sit down with Santa Barbara Records (@santabarbararecords) to discuss new music and being an innovator in the world of artist representation. General Manager Billy O'Connell joins us alongside ERLAND, co-founder and songwriter who recently released his album, Southern Pacific, to talk about the Santa Barbara music scene. From the road, Danny McGaw discusses his growth as a musician and tells some stories about being on tour.

On this episode of The Indy, we're celebrating Earth week. The Point Conception Institute at the Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve has formally launched this year and host Molly McAnany speaks with Dr. Mark Reynolds and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant about this unique living laboratory and the future of conservationist research. Then, Indy reporter Alexandra Goldberg sits down with Joshua Haggmark, City of Santa Barbara Water Resources Manager, about the city's diversified water sources that have supported us through the statewide drought.

On this week's food themed episode of The Indy, we chat with the many people behind the food and wine culture of Santa Barbara. First, host Molly McAnany takes a trip to Rancho San Julian to meet with Elizabeth Poett (@elizabethpoett) and discuss all things 'Ranch to Table.' Reporter for The Indy, Jennifer Yoshikoshi, gets the details of this year's Easter Feast at the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission (@sb_rescuemission). Lastly, we sit down with Vanessa Vin, the Independent's new food and wine fellowship writer, to discuss her experience as a woman of color entering the wine industry and the founding of The Hue Society (@thehuesociety) Central Coast chapter.

On this episode of The Indy, we sit down with the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (@sbmaritimemuseum) team to discuss their newest exhibit Whales are Superheroes! opening on April 14th. The multi-part showcase is their biggest one yet and features an immersive art exhibit as well as a visual presentation detailing whales and their connection to climate change. Marine biologist Holly Lohuis gives us insight into her research and shares why whales are so vital to marine ecosystems.

On this week's episode of The Indy, we speak with Santa Barbara Supervisors Gregg Hart and Joan Hartmann about this month's 3-2 vote against ExxonMobil's offshore oil trucking proposal. We dissect the potential impact of phasing out oil on the local job sector, decommissioning offshore platforms, and the push towards renewable energy. Nadia Abushanab from the Santa Barbara County Action Network (SBCAN) about misperceptions regarding the oil industry and the Santa Barbara environmental rights coalitions.

On this week's episode of The Indy, host Molly McAnany covers the 37th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival. On the red carpet, she speaks with actors Troy Kotsur and Emilia Jones on playing the father-daughter duo in CODA, a film about being the only hearing member of a deaf family. Screenwriter Sian Heder of CODA shares her writing process and working with her ASL master to show rather than tell. After background from Belfast's Kenneth Branagh at the Writer's Panel, actress Caitroina Balfe shares her thoughts on playing 'Ma' as well as the role of Irish women during 'The Troubles.'