Worth Your Time! with Kristi Lee and Rob Shumaker

Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker sit down with Joe Hale, president of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, to discuss his remarkable efforts to transform the iconic museum into a world-class destination. Hale shares his personal connection to the Indy 500, how a global fundraising effort helped raise over $100 million, and why preserving the legacy of the 500 matters on an international scale. From humble beginnings as a teacher to leading a major cultural institution, Hale reflects on adventure, legacy, and storytelling, and how the museum now matches the greatness of the race it celebrates.

Comedian Sam Miller joins hosts Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker for a powerful and hilarious episode of Worth Your Time. Sam opens up about his past struggles with addiction, incarceration, and homelessness—and how those experiences shaped his unique comedic voice. He shares the deeply moving story behind "The Jail Letters," a collaborative performance with his mother based on their correspondence during his time in prison, and discusses how humor became a tool for survival and connection. Sam also gives a behind-the-scenes look at his new comedy special, talks about performing in prisons, and reveals the real story behind his infamous “Let's Dance” belly tattoo.

In this special one-year anniversary episode of Worth Your Time, hosts Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker welcome comedian Sam Miller. Sam shares his transformative journey from addiction and homelessness to comedy and recovery, highlighting personal anecdotes and challenges he faced along the way.

Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker welcome back acclaimed musician Josh Turner for a deep dive into his evolving career, from YouTube sensation to seasoned live performer. They discuss the journey of balancing intimate venues with audience growth, the challenge of blending multiple musical influences, and the art of meaningful collaboration. Josh shares insights into his songwriting process, his plans for a new solo album, and the unexpected ways his music reaches fans across generations. Plus, don't miss an exclusive live performance of an original song. If you love thoughtful conversations about music, creativity, and artistry, this episode is worth your time.

In this episode, Dr. Rob Shumaker and Kristi Lee sit down with multi-talented musician Josh Turner, whose mesmerizing covers and original compositions have captivated millions on YouTube. They discuss his journey from teenage YouTube performer to acclaimed artist, his viral covers, collaborations, and the power of online audiences in shaping modern music careers. Plus, hear a stunning live performance of Graceland and get an inside look at his creative process. Visit his channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@JoshTurnerGuitar

Mel Raines, President and CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, returns for part two of our conversation, diving into her role in transforming Indianapolis into a hub for major sports and entertainment. She shares how she made the leap from political consulting to part of the team orchestrating the 2012 Super Bowl and how that experience led her to oversee Gainbridge Fieldhouse and the business side of the Pacers and Fever. Raines discusses the explosive growth of women's sports, Caitlin Clark's impact on the WNBA, and the upcoming 2025 WNBA All-Star Game in Indy. She also opens up about leadership, the lessons she's learned from working with some of the most powerful figures in politics and sports, and why she hopes being a woman in an executive role soon becomes just a footnote. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, major event management, and the evolution of professional sports.

Mel Raines, President and CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, joins the podcast to share her remarkable journey from Capitol Hill to the front office of Indiana's top sports franchises. In this episode, she reveals how a chance internship led to a career in politics, working for Sen. Dan Coats, running major Republican conventions, and ultimately serving as Assistant to Vice President Dick Cheney for Political Affairs.. She shares behind-the-scenes stories of high-stakes moments in Washington, the intensity of presidential transitions, and what it was like inside the White House. Raines also opens up about why she left politics, the challenges of running large-scale events, and how those skills led her to the sports industry. Packed with insight, humor, and a few surprising moments—like when she accidentally hung up on Cheney—this episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by politics, leadership, and career pivots.

In this episode, Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker dive into an engaging conversation with fitness expert Steve Hawk and his favorite client Mina Hawk. They discuss the ins and outs of starting a fitness journey, particularly during New Year's resolution season. Steve shares his personal story of launching HawkFit, a comprehensive online fitness and nutrition program. The discussion covers the importance of weightlifting for longevity, the common pitfalls in the fitness journey, and busting myths around fitness and nutrition. There's a focus on personalized coaching, the value of consistency over perfection, and navigating diet and fitness during the holidays. 

Kristi and Dr. Rob sits down with special guests Mina and Steve Hawk. Mina, known for her role on HGTV's Good Bones, discusses her life after the show, balancing family duties, and her evolving career. The couple shares personal anecdotes, the challenges of fame, the dynamics of reality TV, and their experiences with social media. Steve, a well-known personal trainer, joins the conversation about their family's future plans, managing public attention, and the impact of their work on their personal lives. Tune in for a heartfelt and engaging discussion about life, work, and family.

Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker talk with Kevin Venardos, founder and ringmaster of Venardos Circus, and his colleague Manny Acosta. Kevin shares his incredible journey from his childhood fascination with Broadway musicals to becoming a young ringmaster for Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and eventually founding his own circus. Kevin describes the ups and downs of circus life, including working through personal struggles and creating a successful touring company. Manny also shares his background as an immigrant from Cuba and his integral role in the circus. The discussion delves into teamwork, the magic of live performance, and the future of the American circus.

Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker sit down with Jonathan Berger, Vice President of Marketing and External Affairs at Newfields, an art museum in Indianapolis, Indiana. The discussion delves into 'The Loom,' a fully immersive multi-sensory art exhibit featuring works by Salvador Dali, Van Gogh, and Monet. Jonathan shares insights about the exhibit's concept, including its 30,000 square feet of projection space and associated café. He also discusses the museum's efforts to make art more accessible and engaging through innovative programs and events like the magical Winter Lights and the spectacular Eclipse party. Whether you've visited Newfields before or are looking to explore it, this episode thoroughly examines its unique offerings and how it strives to demystify art for everyone.

Dr. Lee Allen Dugatkin, an evolutionary biologist from the University of Louisville, joins us to discuss his new book 'The Well Connected Animal: Social Networks and the Wondrous Complexity of Animal Societies.' We begin with the social networks of macaques in Puerto Rico and the impact of Hurricane Maria on their social behavior. Dr. Dugatkin also shares intriguing insights into vampire bats' social structures, blood-sharing practices, and social networks. Additionally, he delves into the cooperative behaviors between dolphins and Brazilian fishermen and the cultural transmission among chimpanzees in the Kibale Forest.  The Well-Connected Animal: Social Networks and the Wondrous Complexity of Animal Societies - https://amzn.to/3C3iFXB

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of animal behavior with Dr. Lee Allen Dugatkin, author of 'The Well Connected Animal'. Dr. Dugatkin shares insights from his extensive research, starting with his groundbreaking studies on social learning in guppies. Discover how female guppies copy the mate choices of others and how genetic and cultural factors interplay in mate selection. We then transition to swordtail fish and the intricate dynamics of spying and social networks. Finally, we delve into the remarkable social networks of macaques on Cayo Santiago Island, where female grooming networks significantly impact survival and reproduction after Hurricane Maria. This conversation reveals the unexpected complexities of animal societies and the innovative methods used to study them. The Well-Connected Animal: Social Networks and the Wondrous Complexity of Animal Societies - https://amzn.to/3C3iFXB

Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shoemaker welcome spiritual healer Marilene Isaacs Kauffman. She shares her experiences at an intense visit to the haunted Central State Hospital in Indianapolis. She discusses various aspects of her work, including spirit attachments, healing techniques, and the ethical considerations of clairvoyance. The conversation also delves into the influence of voodoo, forest bathing, and the importance of reconnecting with nature. Marilene emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit and offers insights into how people can overcome fear and depression by embracing positive energy. Visit her website here: https://www.marilene.org/

In this fascinating episode, we sit with spiritual healer and psychic Marilene Isaacs Kauffman to discuss spiritual healing, auras, and reincarnation. Marilyn shares about her extrasensory perception and the ability to see auras. Then Dr. Rob shares paranormal experiences with a spirit in his home and an unusual experience following a viewing of Schindler's List. She also talks about the spiritual significance of October 31st, reincarnation, and the extraordinary experiences of children and animals with the paranormal.  Visit her website here: https://www.marilene.org/

Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker welcome special guest Donnie Kizzee, a talented tattoo artist. They delve into intriguing topics such as tattooing famous people, the therapeutic effects of tattoos, and his journey in the tattoo industry. Donnie shares memorable stories of tattooing Olympians like Dara Torres and John Moffat, as well as other notable individuals. He also discusses the artistry and technical beauty of tattoos, misconceptions, and the community surrounding tattoo culture. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the nuances of tattoo art and its impact.

Dr. Rob and Kristi Lee sit down with tattoo artist Donnie Kizzee to discuss his journey in tattooing. Donnie shares his experiences, starting with his artistic background at Heron School of Art, how he transitioned into tattooing, and the evolution of tattoo culture. The conversation covers various topics, including his first tattoo experience, the process of becoming a professional tattoo artist, the influence of pop culture on the popularity of tattoos, and the technical aspects of tattooing. 

Join us for the second part of Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker's interview with Dr. Steve Amstrup, the leading expert on polar bears. In this episode, we dive deep into polar bear hibernation, their unique reproductive strategies, and the critical impact of climate change on their survival. Dr. Amstrup shares fascinating anecdotes from his extensive research in Northern Alaska, including a memorable encounter inside a polar bear den. Discover the urgent realities of declining sea ice and what it means for polar bears, as well as the actions we can take to combat climate change. Don't miss this insightful and hopeful conversation aimed at conserving one of our planet's most iconic species. Dr. Amstrup is the 2012 Indianapolis Prize, the world's leading animal conservation award to advance the sustainability of an animal species or group of species presented by the Indianapolis Zoological Society.

Join Dr. Rob Shumaker and Kristi Lee as they welcome Dr. Steven Amstrup, Chief Scientist Emeritus at Polar Bears International. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Amstrup shares his journey from studying black bears to becoming one of the world's leading experts on polar bears. He delves into his research methods, including capture and recapture techniques, the use of radio telemetry, and groundbreaking findings on polar bear behavior and migration. Throughout the episode, Dr. Amstrup offers fascinating insights and personal anecdotes, highlighting the challenges and excitement of wildlife conservation and research. Dr. Amstrup is the 2012 Indianapolis Prize, the world's leading animal conservation award to advance the sustainability of an animal species or group of species presented by the Indianapolis Zoological Society. 

Join Dr. Rob Shumaker and Kristi as they delve into the world of chimpanzees, exploring their complex social structures, behaviors, and the revolutionary influence of Frans de Waal's book Chimpanzee Politics. Dr. Rob, an international expert on primates and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, shares insights from the zoo's groundbreaking new chimpanzee exhibit and the lasting impact of accurate portrayals of these great apes. Learn about the similarities between humans and chimpanzees, the importance of reconciling conflicts, and actionable steps for conservation. 

Dr. Rob Shumaker and Kristi Lee continue their conversation with Jennifer Pace Robinson, the dynamic President and CEO of the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Jennifer shares insights into the museum's upcoming 100th-anniversary celebrations, tells incredible tales from her archaeological adventures in Egypt, and how they balance the demands of engaging young minds with maintaining world-class exhibits.

Dr. Rob and Kristi chat with Jennifer Pace Robinson, President and CEO of the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. They discuss Jennifer's 32-year journey from intern to CEO where she guides the largest children's museum in the world. Jennifer highlights the museum's commitment to tackling tough historical subjects and the success of its engaging, interactive exhibits. 

We welcome Dr. Will Miller once again to discuss his book "Refrigerator Rights." They delve into the impact of isolation and loneliness on health, as highlighted by the Surgeon General. Dr. Miller shares personal anecdotes and professional insights on the importance of rebuilding familial and social connections in the digital age, the role of media, and the mental health crisis. He introduces us to the concept of 'refrigerator rights'—the idea of close, comforting relationships that allow us to open up the fridge without asking. 

Our guest is the multifaceted Dr. Will Miller, who is an ordained minister, comedian, professor, speaker, and therapist. He shares stories from his diverse career from performing stand-up comedy alongside famous comics like Jerry Seinfeld and Eddie Murphy in New York's Showcase Clubs to incorporating his psychological insights into comedy and therapy. Dr. Miller discusses his unique approach to blending humor with therapy, his experiences with notable figures in the comedy world, and his insightful observations on human behavior, trauma, and healing. 

Dr. Charles Foley is back again on the latest episode of "Worth Your Time," where he shares tales from his life of mammal watching and conservation efforts. Dr. Foley recounts a memorable trip to Tanzania under the stars in the Simanjiro Plains with Dr. Rob Shumaker involving local Maasai village game scouts, a freshly cooked goat, and a night of swapping ghost stories by a campfire, showcasing the profound human connection to storytelling and nature. Dr. Foley also explains his passion for mammal watching, explaining the challenges and nuances of observing nocturnal species. His adventures span the globe, from the Serengeti to remote Irian Jaya, each trip driven by the thrill of encountering rare and elusive mammals like the aardvark and the mysterious long-beaked echidna. These narratives are not just tales of travel and animal sightings but reflect a deep commitment to conservation and community involvement, highlighting how local actions can lead to global impacts. Join the global community of wildlife enthusiasts like Dr. Foley on Mammalwatching.com, where you can share and discover mammal watching tips and tales. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species - https://www.iucnredlist.org

Join Dr. Rob Shumaker and Kristi Lee on "Worth Your Time" for an engaging episode with Dr. Charles Foley, a leading elephant conservation scientist from Lincoln Park Zoo. Discover Dr. Foley's journey from his early days in African wildlife conservation to his innovative research methods and deep insights into elephant behavior. We get a unique glimpse into the life of a wildlife conservationist dedicated to protecting these majestic creatures, including standoffs with mother elephants, leopard attacks, and transporting radioactive elephant dung.  Add his podcast to your app now: Mammal Watching: The Podcast - https://www.mammalwatching.com/podcasts/

Kristi Lee and Dr. Rob Shumaker, President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, discuss his lifelong passion for working with animals, starting from his childhood. A significant portion of his career success and his alignment with his passion is attributed to the unwavering support from his mother and the practical experience he gained through volunteering and working at the National Zoo while completing his education. He discusses the unique perspective his work has offered him, blending hands-on animal care with academic pursuits, and how this intersection has benefited his career. Transitioning from an animal-focused role to managing the operational aspects of running a zoo proved to be a significant learning curve for Dr. Shumaker. Despite the challenges, he emphasizes the importance of understanding both the business and animal sides of zoo management. The episode also explores the broader vision of 'Worth Your Time,' promising a diverse range of topics beyond zoos and animals in future episodes.

Dr. Rob Shumaker and Kristi Lee delve into Kristi's life story, highlighting her long-standing career in broadcasting and how it has evolved over the years. Kristi shares her experiences growing up in Indianapolis, her first steps into broadcasting during high school, and her journey through various roles in radio and television. With a focus on her tenure with the Bob and Tom Show, Kristi discusses the impact of mentors, the importance of staying relevant, and how her career allowed her to explore new interests, such as conservation at the Indianapolis Zoo and the Indianapolis Prize. She offers insights into resilience, adaptability, and finding fulfillment in work and beyond.

Worth Your Time explores the hearts and minds of extraordinary individuals from all walks of life. Join Kristi Lee from The BOB & TOM Show and Dr. Rob Shumaker of the Indianapolis Zoo as they delve into the lives of fascinating guests, uncovering stories that will inspire, challenge, and entertain us and you.