Podcasts about wfyi

Matthew Socey chats with WFYI's own Roxanna Caldwell (Director of Programming) about the film Ladies and Gentlemen, The Fabulous Stains. She also brings up a date in Film Soceyology history.

Rhinestone-studded suits and colorful embroidery are hallmarks of classic Western wear—a tradition immortalized by artists like Porter Wagoner, Lefty Frizzell, and Little Jimmy Dickens. Indianapolis designer Jerry Lee Atwood carries that spirit forward with custom pieces that have appeared in Vogue magazine and in the wardrobes of Post Malone, Lil Nas X, Diplo, and Charley Crockett. A new exhibition of his work opens at the Eiteljorg Museum on March 28. WFYI's Kyle Long spoke with Atwood to learn more. They discussed his early years growing up in Lafayette, his work with the punk band Candidate, and how a job at an Indianapolis coffee shop led him to designing Western wear.

Indianapolis designer Jerry Lee Atwood carries the tradition and spirit of classic Western wear forward with custom pieces that have appeared in Vogue magazine and in the wardrobes of Post Malone, Lil Nas X, Diplo, and Charley Crockett. WFYI's Kyle Long spoke with him about a new exhibition of his work at the Eiteljorg Museum.

Governor Braun commits $1 billion to bioscience sector growth, aiming to create 100,000 jobs over 10 years. Indiana ranked worst of all states for foreclosure filing rates, with Indianapolis and Evansville among the top 5 of cities with the highest rates. The FSSA could end Medicaid drug reimbursement for qualified health centers state-wide. Host Jill Sheridan is joined by political strategist Elise Shrock, Republican Chris Mitchem, Samantha Horton of WFYI, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

For two decades, Take That Tuesday has been a cornerstone of Indianapolis hip-hop DJ culture—providing a space for both emerging and veteran turntablists to share music outside the constraints of commercial club environments. WFYI's Kyle Long recently spoke with the event's hosts, DJ MetroGnome and J. Moore.

For two decades, Take That Tuesday has been a cornerstone of Indianapolis hip-hop DJ culture—providing a space for both emerging and veteran turntablists to share music outside the constraints of commercial club environments. On March 31, Take That Tuesday will celebrate its 20th anniversary at Coaches, featuring a guest set from Canadian DJ and producer Skratch Bastid, a three-time Scribble Jam DJ Battle champion. WFYI's Kyle Long recently spoke with Take That Tuesday hosts DJ MetroGnome and J. Moore. Nick Saligoe, widely known as DJ MetroGnome, is a veteran Indianapolis DJ, promoter, and educator. He is also the co-founder of Deckademics, a DJ and music production school based in Indianapolis. J. Moore is the voice of Take That Tuesday. In addition to his work behind the mic, he is a key contributor to the New Old Heads Podcast, an Indianapolis-based series that brings together DJs, MCs, and producers to discuss hip-hop culture.

Governor Mike Braun reflects on the 2026 legislative session after a rocky start with December's redistricting vote. Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard joins the race for Indiana Secretary of State as an independent, facing up against Diego Morales and Beau Bayh. The State Treasurer raises questions about the sale of AES Indiana to BlackRock and the Qatar Investment Authority. Host Jill Sheridan is joined by Democrat Laura Beck, Republican Whitley Yates, Caroline Beck of WFYI, and Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Listen to an interview with the Indianapolis-based composer, performer, and instrument builder Rob Funkhouser. His music explores ideas of place, memory, and pattern, often working in the spaces between established musical genres. He's collaborated with ensembles including the Los Angeles Percussion Quartet, So Percussion, and Forward Motion, and he currently serves as Education Manager at the Rhythm! Discovery Center. His latest album, “Respiratory Cycle”, features two immersive, long-form suites “Exhale” and “Inhale.” WFYI's Kyle Long spoke with Rob Funkhouser about the project.

AES Indiana cancelled the first of three open houses in Indianapolis Tuesday evening due to threats. A conservative legal group is celebrating a $650,000 settlement for a former Brownsburg teacher who resigned instead of using the preferred name and pronouns of transgender students. A new law will change how Marion County judges get selected. The Indiana Department of Transportation is equipping highway workers across the state with additional safety equipment to keep them safe in low-visibility conditions. The Marion County Jail detained over a thousand immigrants for ICE in 2025, according to a new WFYI analysis. Hamilton Southeastern Schools is looking for a new leader. Superintendent Pat Mapes announced he is stepping down next month. Data center developments are one of the most controversial issues in Indiana right now. Indianapolis officials started work on a decade-long project meant to make streets safer for bikers, pedestrians and drivers.

AES Indiana cancelled the first of three open houses in Indianapolis Tuesday evening due to threats. A conservative legal group is celebrating a $650,000 settlement for a former Brownsburg teacher who resigned instead of using the preferred name and pronouns of transgender students. A new law will change how  Marion County judges get selected. The Indiana Department of Transportation is equipping highway workers across the state with additional safety equipment to keep them safe in low-visibility conditions. The Marion County Jail detained over a thousand immigrants for ICE in 2025, according to a new WFYI analysis. Hamilton Southeastern Schools is looking for a new leader. Superintendent Pat Mapes announced he is stepping down next month. Data center developments are one of the most controversial issues in Indiana right now. Indianapolis officials started work on a decade-long project meant to make streets safer for bikers, pedestrians and drivers. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Listen to an interview with “Mr. Las Vegas” Wayne Newton. With a career spanning more than seven decades, Wayne Newton is among the most enduring figures in American popular entertainment. He's best known for his 1963 hit “Danke Schoen,” and for a record-setting run of performances in Las Vegas. But Newton's career began much earlier, in the 1950s, when he was still a child, singing country music alongside his brother, Jerry. On February 14th, Wayne Newton brings his latest tour to Central Indiana, with a performance at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. WFYI's Kyle Long spoke with Wayne Newton about his early years in music, and his rise from radio and television to the Las Vegas Strip.

A bill to force state and local law enforcement to comply with federal immigration efforts passes out of committee. Hoosier students join nationwide walkouts to protest ICE, with the Indiana Department of Education and GOP lawmakers condemning the students. A long-time member of the Indiana GOP leaves his party and will run as an independent candidate for mayor of New Albany. Host Jill Sheridan is joined by Democrat Terri Austin, Republican Mike O'Brien, Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy, and Ben Thorp of WFYI to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

For more than a decade, Sofar Sounds has connected music fans with intimate, unconventional concert experiences in cities across the globe. After a hiatus, the project is returning to Indianapolis—thanks to local ambassador Surina Gangwani, who is relaunching the series with a renewed focus on community.  WFYI's Kyle Long spoke with Surina about the vision behind SoFar, and what audiences can expect as the concerts return to Indianapolis.

Neko Case is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and genre-defying albums. She discussed her new album, “Neon Grey Midnight Green,” and her upcoming performance in Indiana with WFYI's Kyle Long.

Neko Case is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and genre-defying albums. She's also a founding member of the New Pornographers, and the author of the bestselling memoir “The Harder I Fight the More I Love You.” Case's latest album is titled “Neon Grey Midnight Green.” She discussed the album and her upcoming performance in Indiana with WFYI's Kyle Long.

Scott Matelic is an Indianapolis-born hip-hop producer and DJ whose sound emerges from the crate-digging traditions of DJ culture, blending sample-based production with soulful textures and psychedelic atmospheres. He discusses his new album Dead Weightt with Kyle Long at WFYI studios.

Scott Matelic is an Indianapolis-born hip-hop producer and DJ whose sound emerges from the crate-digging traditions of DJ culture, blending sample-based production with soulful textures and psychedelic atmospheres. He began attracting international attention in the early 2000s, when his beats appeared on releases from Anticon Records, the influential California-based label known for issuing music that pushed hip-hop beyond mainstream conventions. Matelic's work was featured on prominent Anticon projects by Sole and Sage Francis. In 2004, Matelic released his debut album, Primitive Pessimist, through the Japanese label Tri Eight. Four years later, his music was issued on a compilation from the revered Japanese producer Nujabes. While his career has taken him beyond Indianapolis — he is now based in New York — Matelic's roots in the city remain central to his story. He was raised in a deeply musical household  —  his father, Ron Matelic, is a respected Indianapolis psychedelic rock musician known for his work with bands including Anonymous, J Rider, and Sir Winston and the Commons. That environment helped shape Scott's early musical sensibility and openness to genre-blurring experimentation. In recent years, Matelic has continued to build on his legacy through collaborations with Indianapolis artists, including rapper Sirius Blvck. In 2024, the two released the full-length album Daily Rituals of the Wild Heart. Alongside his production work, Matelic has long been respected as a DJ, with performances including a notable 2004 date at the Casbah in Broad Ripple alongside the iconic producer and DJ Diplo. Matelic recently visited the WFYI studios to discuss his new album Dead Weightt with Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long.

Justin Bland is the creator and host of Made Man Improv, a popular improv comedy showcase based in Indianapolis. Under his direction, Made Man Improv has built a loyal audience and a recognizable brand within the local arts scene. But after years of sold-out performances, Bland is ending the Made Man Improv series this month. In this conversation with WFYI's Kyle Long, Bland looks back on the history of Made Man Improv.

Matthew Socey has a chat with WFYI intern Brylee Stubbs about her history with the work of David Lynch and what films she watches with her parents.

Matthew Socey chats with WFYI intern Brylee Stubbs about her history with David Lynch's work and the films she watches with her parents.

Listen to an interview with John Green, an award-winning author and YouTuber. Green is best known for his work in young adult literature — his novels, including The Fault in Our Stars, Looking for Alaska, and Paper Towns, have sold over 50 million copies and inspired several major film adaptations.  Green's latest book, Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection, is a nonfiction work that examines how tuberculosis, a curable disease that continues to kill millions due to global inequality and public health failures. In this conversation with WFYI's Kyle Long, Green discussed Everything Is Tuberculosis, his work in public media, and his deep roots in Indianapolis.

WFYI's Kyle Long features Echoes of Indiana Avenue co-host Herman 'Butch' Slaughter on this segment from Cultural Manifesto.

Recently, Terre Haute, Indiana welcomed two of the nation's most prominent political figures — Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Sanders visited the city to receive the Eugene V. Debs Award. WFYI's Kyle Long was on hand to capture the sounds, music, and speeches that defined the evening. Listen to Long's interview with Sanders, along with music from the Local Honeys; the Kentucky-based duo opened the ceremony with a set of old-time folk music.  Born in 1855, Eugene Debs was raised in Terre Haute, Indiana. Debs was a political activist, trade unionist, founding member of the Industrial Workers of the World, and a five-time Socialist Party presidential candidate. In 1962, the Debs Foundation was established in Terre Haute to preserve Debs' legacy. Since 1965, the foundation has presented the annual Eugene V. Debs Award to individuals and organizations whose work advances the causes of labor rights, peace, and human equality. Past recipients include Kurt Vonnegut, Coretta Scott King, Dolores Huerta, Howard Zinn, Pete Seeger, and Ralph Nader.

Listen to an interview with NPR's Ailsa Chang; she recently spoke with WFYI's Kyle Long to discuss the importance of supporting public media. You hear her every weekday as co-host of All Things Considered, NPR's flagship evening news program. Chang grew up in Northern California, the daughter of parents who emigrated from Taiwan. She began her professional life in law, earning a J.D. from Stanford University in 2001 and completing a Fulbright Scholarship at the University of Oxford. But at 30, she made an unexpected pivot — leaving behind a legal career to pursue journalism. Her reporting quickly gained national attention, earning her an Edward R. Murrow Award and the Daniel Schorr Journalism Prize. In 2018, Chang made history as the first Asian American woman to host an NPR news program when she joined All Things Considered as co-host.

Listen to an interview with NPR's Ailsa Chang; she recently spoke with WFYI's Kyle Long to discuss the importance of supporting public media. You hear her every weekday as co-host of All Things Considered, NPR's flagship evening news program.

Indianapolis waterways should be cleaner than ever, thanks to a newly completed construction project deep under the city. A small crowd of mostly women — some with children in tow — gathered on the steps of the Indiana State House Friday. Also on Friday, protesters rallied at the Statehouse to oppose redrawing Indiana's congressional maps. For 10 years, WFYI's Small Studio Sessions has been a stage where local musicians of every genre have found a home.

Indianapolis waterways should be cleaner than ever, thanks to a newly completed construction project deep under the city. A small crowd of mostly women — some with children in tow — gathered on the steps of the Indiana State House Friday. Also on Friday, protesters rallied at the Statehouse to oppose redrawing Indiana's congressional maps. For 10 years, WFYI's Small Studio Sessions has been a stage where local musicians of every genre have found a home. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Drew Daudelin, Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Jude Noel is a music journalist and critic whose work has appeared in Pitchfork, The Fader, and Bandcamp Daily. In his recent Bandcamp feature, “Indy Is Next,” Jude shines a spotlight on Indianapolis's growing independent music scene, tracing the city's creative energy through its artists, venues, and DIY communities. He writes that Indianapolis's “best artists braid genres and influences in bizarre yet satisfying ways, chasing creative whims rather than trends. Bands share members and ideas, generating sounds that feel out of time and tough to categorize.” WFYI's Kyle Long recently spoke with Noel to learn more about his work as a music journalist.

The impact of the federal shutdown on Indiana's 24,000 federal employees, most of whom work in law enforcement, transportation security, and veterans affairs. Health insurance costs for Hoosiers is set to nearly double without extended premium tax credits unless congress intervenes. Purdue University abruptly cancels their GEAR UP program aimed at low-income students. Interim host Jon Schwantes is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, political strategist Elise Shrock, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jill Sheridan of WFYI to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Gonzalo Rubalcaba is a Grammy-winning Cuban pianist and composer celebrated as one of the most innovative voices in modern jazz. He'll be performing at Indy Jazz Fest on September 19. Born in Havana in 1963 to a musical family, Rubalcaba was classically trained before emerging as a prodigy of the city's vibrant jazz scene. His virtuosic technique quickly drew international attention, leading to collaborations with legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Haden, and Herbie Hancock. In his conversation with WFYI's Kyle Long, Rubalcaba discusses his connection to Dizzy Gillespie and his latest album, “A Tribute to Benny Moré and Nat King Cole.”

Gonzalo Rubalcaba is a Grammy-winning Cuban pianist and composer celebrated as one of the most innovative voices in modern jazz. WFYI's Kyle Long and Rubalcaba discuss his connection to Dizzy Gillespie and his latest album “A Tribute to Benny Moré and Nat King Cole.”

The guitarist and vocalist Roger McGuinn is among the most critically acclaimed and influential American musicians. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 and in 2023 he was named one of the “250 Greatest Guitarist” by Rolling Stone magazine.   McGuinn is a co-founder of The Byrds and he's often associated with the West Coast rock scene of the 1960s. But McGuinn is a native of the Midwest and he grew up immersed in the vibrant folk music scene of Chicago during the 1950s. McGuinn began his career recording and performing with folk groups like The Limelighters and Chad Mitchell Trio.  McGuinn rose to national prominence in 1964 when he co-founded The Byrds with David Crosby and Gene Clark. McGuinn's 12 string Rickenbacker guitar was a defining element of the group's sound. The Byrds' 1965 version of Bob Dylan's “Mr. Tambourine Man” hit #1 on the American charts. That same year, their recording of Pete Seeger's “Turn, Turn, Turn” also hit #1, ushering in the folk-rock movement of the mid 1960s.   Over the next few years McGuinn continued to set new trends in rock music. The Byrds' 1966 single “Eight Miles High” brought psychedelic music to the pop charts, and their1968 album “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” sparked the development of country rock. The Byrds broke up in 1973, but McGuinn has continued to record and tour as a solo artist. McGuinn will bring his “Storied and Songs” tour to Carmel, Indiana's Tarkington Theatre on September 13.  In this conversation with WFYI's Kyle Long, McGuinn reflects on his roots in the Chicago folk scene.

Brandee Younger is a groundbreaking harpist who has redefined the instrument's place in contemporary music. Younger will perform at Indy Jazz Fest on September 17.  A classically trained musician, Younger has cultivated a unique sound that fuses her classical training with elements of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. Younger has collaborated with a wide range of artists including Pharoah Sanders, Ravi Coltrane, Common, John Legend, Kanye West, Meshell Ndegeocello and many others. In 2021, Younger released “Somewhere Different” on the historic Impulse! label, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Instrumental Composition — the first Black woman ever recognized in that category. Her 2023 album “Brand New Life” celebrated the legacy of harp pioneer Dorothy Ashby and won the 2024 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Jazz Album. Throughout her career, Younger has worked to promote and celebrate the work of jazz musician Alice Coltrane and on her new album “Gadabout Season” Younger is performing on Coltrane's harp. Listen to Younger's interview with WFYI's Kyle Long this week on Cultural Manifesto.

Listen to a conversation with Durand Jones, Aaron Frazer and Blake Rhein of the soul band Durand Jones and The Indications. They joined WFYI's Kyle Long for an in-depth discussion of their roots in Bloomington, Indiana and how projects including the IU Soul Revue and Charlie Patton's War brought the band together. The Indications' latest album is titled “Flowers”, and they'll be performing in Indianapolis on September 30 at the Hi-Fi Annex.  Durand Jones and the Indications formed in Bloomington in 2012, while its members were studying at Indiana University. The band's sound was built around a mutual love for classic soul, funk and R&B. Their reputation spread beyond Bloomington in 2016, when Ohio's Colemine Records issued their debut album. The Indication's second album “American Love Call” was issued in 2019 and praised by critics for its lush arrangements and socially conscious lyrics, earning comparisons to The Impressions and The Delfonics. Two years later, their album “Private Space” debuted in the Top 10 of Billboard's Emerging Artists chart. Their latest album “Flowers” builds on the band's distinct blend of vintage soul sounds and contemporary production techniques. Since launching in Bloomington over a decade ago, The Indications have grown into an international force, racking up millions of streams online, and touring across North America and Europe.

Listen to a conversation with Durand Jones, Aaron Frazer and Blake Rhein of the soul band Durand Jones and The Indications. They joined WFYI's Kyle Long for an in-depth discussion of their roots in Bloomington, Indiana, and how projects including the IU Soul Revue and Charlie Patton's War brought the band together.

Everything, Now! emerged from Indiana's underground rock music scene in the early 2000s and gained notoriety for their chaotic sound and unpredictable live shows. Listen to their interview with Kyle Long after a Small Studio Session at WFYI.

Luke 10:25-37Just then, a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he said, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the law? What do you read there?” He answered him, “You should love the Lord your God with all your heart, and all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus said to him, “You have given the right answer. Do this and you shall live.”But wanting to justify himself, the man asked him, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus answered him, “A man was going down the road from Jerusalem to Jericho when he fell into the hands of robbers who beat him, stripped him, leaving him half dead. Now, by chance a priest was walking along the same road and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So likewise, a Levite, when he came to the place, saw the man and passed by on the other side.But a Samaritan, while traveling saw the man and was moved with pity. He came near to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. He put him onto his own animal and took him to an inn to take care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the inn keeper and said, ‘Take care of him and when I come back I will repay you whatever more you spend.'”Jesus said to the lawyer, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers.” He answered him, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” Our questioner for this morning wasn't specific, so I'm taking some guesses and some liberty at choosing what they could have meant by “When the system falls short…” – and how a Christian might respond. By that I mean, “SYSTEM” could mean lots of things. When I think “SYSTEM,” I think POLITICAL system, JUSTICE system, HEALTHCARE system, EDUCATION system, the ECONOMY, and so on.So, maybe our question refers to the ECONOMY that allows corporate CEOs to make 300 times as much as their average employees who then have to worry about the price of eggs or milk or gas or rent. (The economic system is falling short for a lot of people these days. How does a Christian respond?)Maybe our IMMIGRATION system was on the mind of whoever asked today's question. Its shortcomings are something both sides of the political aisle actually agree about, after all. (That system and the current methods of remedy are a profound failure of human decency, respect, integrity, and moral character, if you ask me. What does a faithful Christian response look like there?)I contend that our JUSTICE system falls short every time a Black, brown, or poor person receives a harsher, longer punishment than a white or wealthy person for the same – or lesser – crime. (The justice system is shamefully, painfully failing a whole lot of people. What's a believer to do?)And the SYSTEM, writ large, falls short when it chooses to fund the resulting prison industrial complex and a raging war machine rather than provide food, healthcare, and housing for its people. (For people who worship the “Prince of Peace,” the “Healer of Every Ill,” the One who calls us to feed the sick, clothe the naked, turn the other cheek, and forgive our enemy – we have to wonder “What would Jesus do?”)The SYSTEM is falling short when hospitals, major corporations, private schools, and public schools are bullied into denying, dismantling, or defunding their diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. (For generations of Christians who grew up singing “Red and Yellow, Black and White, they are precious in his sight” how does our faith call us to respond?)So, again … the question of the day … What do we do when the system – or any of the systems within the system – fall short? When they don't live up to our expectations or needs? When they downright fail? What's a Christian to do? What does a faithful response look like, indeed? Good question.Before you ask me, though, I'd ask Shane Claiborne. He's a faithful Christian activist who does crazy, beautiful things like turns guns into gardening tools – you've heard me talk of him before. Shane Claiborne once broke a very particular law, several years ago, in Philadelphia, which had made it illegal to feed homeless people, outdoors, in public spaces. So, in addition to pizza, he served them Holy Communion – all of which got him arrested calling attention to the broken, inhumane, unloving, mean-spirited law the courts ultimately declared unjust and unfair, thanks to his clever act of civil, faithful disobedience.And before you ask me this question, I'd look to Pastor Martin Luther King, Jr., who protested and broke the racist Jim Crow laws of the South to march, boycott, host sit-ins and to teach, preach, and promote God's Gospel of diversity, equity and inclusion – showing the world that those are not dirty words and worthless endeavors.Before you ask me this question, I'd look to Lutheran pastor and theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who preached and taught and wrote about The Cost of Discipleship and was executed for fighting against the moral, ethical, evil failures of the Nazis, during World War II. I'd wonder about Cesar Chavez who fought for fair wages, safe working conditions, and decent standards of living for migrant and agricultural workers in our country. I'd remember Mother Teresa who gave up everything to care for the poorest of the poor that every system of healthcare, education, and human compassion had failed.Each of these faithful Christian people responded to the broken, failing systems they witnessed in ways that were informed and inspired by the teachings of Jesus. And each of them, surely, was informed and inspired the Good Samaritan – this outsider who saw the suffering of a stranger, recognized him as a neighbor, crossed the road, broke some rules, risked his own safety, and gave up a full measure of his time and money to help, as nothing more and nothing less than an act of compassion and mercy.In some ways, the answer to today's question is as simple as that – When the system falls short, faithful action looks like seeing everyone as your neighbor and showing them mercy, as a result.But the truth is, we like to pretend – you and I – that we don't have courage or occasion enough of the time to encounter the suffering, dying, needs of our neighbor in as dramatic a fashion as Martin Luther King, Jr., Cesar Chavez, Mother Theresa, or that Good Samaritan in Jesus' story. And maybe that's true. Maybe we don't have courage or occasion enough to respond like that.But since you asked, I'll tell you what I've done, what I try to do, and what I hope for around here – as your pastor; as your Partner in Mission; and as a wannabe follower of Jesus. Because I believe my response – and ours together in this place – to the short-falls of the systems that surround us show up in lots of ways. We have a unique calling in this community, in this political climate, at this particular time – as fellow wannabe followers of Jesus – to do something about the systemic shortfalls that threaten us and that harm our neighbors.The easiest thing I do is that I say a lot of words. I do my best to preach and teach about a God who loves all people and hope that moves us all to defend, protect, support, welcome, affirm, and love all people, too – on this side of heaven, not just the next, which is key. God's love and grace are meant to be shared with all people on this side of heaven, not just the next.Our Groceries of Grace food pantry matters because it helps mitigate the systemic shortfalls of a broken economic system by simply feeding people kindly, compassionately, generously, with dignity – and without a lot of questions or pre-requisites. And hopefully that allows them to spend the grocery money they save on other needs.Our Racial Justice Team matters because churches are one of the few institutions who haven't been bullied by the system – yet – into decrying or dropping Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts, and withholding the truth about the ongoing impact of racism on our neighbors. We aren't perfect, but from what I know, Cross of Grace does that more deliberately and more faithfully than any congregation in Hancock County.I'm leading that Unclobber book study again (starting this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.) because no other congregation in our community will do that either; and because not enough churches in our country have evolved to embrace the TRUTH about what the Bible actually says and does not say about homosexuality among God's people.I chair the board for Project Rouj, too, because Jesus tells me that my neighbor isn't just someone who lives next door or who looks and believes and behaves like I do. So I like building houses for my friends and strangers in Fondwa, Haiti.And, lastly – and not for nothing – when it comes to mitigating the impact of the broken, failing systems that surround us – my family gives our money away, because Jesus tells us to. The Havels give regular, if not monthly, financial contributions to places like Project Rouj, WFYI and NPR, and Susan G. Komen. And all of that is secondary to the more than 10% of our income that we give to the ministry at Cross of Grace, every year too.(I don't say this to brag or guilt-trip anyone. I'm just answering the question. And I admit, it's impressive and tempting to wonder about the swimming pools, nicer cars, college tuition, and second home we could have paid and saved for over the years with that money. And I pray for and dream about the day when more of you believe me when I tell you what a difference that kind of giving could make for you, your family, for the ministry we share, and for this broken world we're trying to mend.)All of this is to say that – in the face of the failing systems that surround us – Jesus calls us to follow the Good Samaritan's lead.Because let's remember – without too much despair – that whatever system you think is failing you, or someone you love, or your proverbial neighbor in some way … this is nothing new. Jesus showed up in the world precisely because the systems of this world are insufficient and unequal to the task of loving God's people in ways that God desires and asks of God's people.So God calls us to be here precisely because the system fails, is failing, and will fail again and again and again. We are called to cross the proverbial street to see and hear about the suffering of our neighbor. We are called to look long and hard and deeply at what hurts and harms them, most. We're called, too, to wonder if we have participated in that somehow.And then we are called to do something about it, as much as we are able. We find them help. We provide them resources. We take some risks. We give some money. We show mercy.And when we do, Jesus promises, we get a glimpse of eternal life, right where we live.Amen

The Indianapolis band Wife Patrol has gained national attention for their punk, metal, and pop-influenced sound. Outlets including Vice, Bandcamp, and Afropunk have praised the group's music. Wife Patrol's latest album is titled NOPLACE. The music explores themes of decline and desolation in Indianapolis. WFYI's Kyle Long recently spoke with Wife Patrol to learn more.

Everything, Now! emerged from Indiana's underground rock music scene in the early 2000s. Formed in Muncie in 2003, they gained notoriety for their chaotic sound and unpredictable live shows. Fronted by the guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Jon Rogers, Everything, Now! has released 7 albums and attracted a loyal base of supporters. The band recently visited WFYI to record a live set for Small Studio Sessions, and they spoke with Kyle Long after their performance.

The Indianapolis band Wife Patrol has gained national attention for their punk, metal, and pop-influenced sound. WFYI's Kyle Long recently spoke with the band about their latest album, titled NOPLACE.

Inside INdiana Business Radio for the afternoon of July 18, 2025. Gainbridge Fieldhouse is going green for this weekend's WNBA All-Star Game. A civil engineering firm in southern Indiana is expanding with a new location in New Albany. Plus, WFYI is facing financial troubles due to recently approved funding cuts by Congress. Get the latest business news from throughout the state at InsideINdianaBusiness.com.

Celebrate the life of the Indianapolis teacher and vocalist Lexie Webster, who passed away on June 24, 2025, at the age of 96.  Lexie Webster was born in Indianapolis on June 20,1929. Her parents, James and Iva Staples, migrated to Indiana from Tennessee. Webster attended Crispus Attucks High School, graduating with honors at age 16. From there, she attended Knoxville College and later earned a master's degree in education from Indiana University. Webster worked as a kindergarten teacher for the Indianapolis Public School system for 35 years. During that time, she also performed as a vocalist with the Indianapolis Opera Company, Witherspoon Presbyterian Church and many other organizations. Webster was the widow of the acclaimed Indianapolis jazz saxophonist Russell Webster. In 2023, Lexie Webster appeared on Echoes of Indiana Avenue, along with her daughter Bonita Webster-Coleman, to discuss Russell Webster's musical legacy. Hear excerpts from their interview with WFYI's Kyle Long, along with classic recordings from Russell Webster.

The Indiana Brothers are a Carnatic music duo from Central Indiana, featuring twin brothers Sarvagh Shrianandh and Suragh Shrianandh. Though they're just 20 years old, the Indiana Brothers have been studying and performing Carnatic music for several years. The Indiana Brothers have performed frequently across the Midwest United States. The duo has also played dates on the West Coast and India. Carnatic music is a traditional form, of South Indian classical music characterized by intricate melodies, complex rhythmic patterns and devotional lyrics. Both Sarvagh and Suragh attend Purdue University. WFYI's Kyle Long recently caught up with the brothers during a break from their studies.

Thousands gathered at the Indiana Statehouse in downtown Indianapolis over the weekend, part of the "No Kings" protests that took place nationwide. A new partnership on Indianapolis's near north side is trying to make healthcare more accessible for formerly incarcerated people. A group responsible for shaping the future of public schools in Indianapolis will be holding meetings throughout the summer. Last Monday night the Indianapolis City-County Council meeting erupted into chaos as Lauren Roberts was forcibly removed from the chambers while attempting to speak about her experiences inside Mayor Hogsett's campaign – WFYI's Jill Sheridan sat down with Roberts to find out what she wanted to say. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Drew Daudelin, Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Thousands gathered at the Indiana Statehouse in downtown Indianapolis over the weekend, part of the "No Kings" protests that took place nationwide. A new partnership on Indianapolis's near north side is trying to make healthcare more accessible for formerly incarcerated people. A group responsible for shaping the future of public schools in Indianapolis will be holding meetings throughout the summer. Last Monday night the Indianapolis City-County Council meeting erupted into chaos as Lauren Roberts was forcibly removed from the chambers while attempting to speak about her experiences inside Mayor Hogsett's campaign – WFYI's Jill Sheridan sat down with Roberts to find out what she wanted to say.

Listen to a 2017 interview WFYI's Kyle Long recorded with Brian Wilson, the visionary composer and producer behind the Beach Boys. He died on June 11, 2025, at the age of 82. The Beach Boys are one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful bands of all time, selling over 100 million records and charting 37 songs in the U.S. Top 40. Much of that success was due to Wilson's visionary production style. which included unorthodox instrumentation, innovative recording techniques, and most notably the band's iconic vocal harmonies. Those trademark vocal harmonies were directly inspired by the Indianapolis group The Four Freshmen. The Four Freshmen were formed on the campus of Butler University in 1948. Wilson credited the Four Freshmen as his main influence in crafting the Beach Boys' sound. Wilson was such a big fan, he even recruited Four Freshmen arranger Dick Reynolds to work on several Beach Boys projects. During his conversation with WFYI, Wilson discussed his deep appreciation for The Four Freshmen.

Listen to a 2017 interview WFYI's Kyle Long recorded with Brian Wilson, the visionary composer and producer behind the Beach Boys. He died on June 11 at the age of 82.

Listen to an interview with the musician and activist Taylor Hall. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so Hall chose the month of May to release her latest collection of songs, Cheaper Than Therapy. During her recent conversation with WFYI's Kyle Long, Hall said she hopes the project will help to destigmatize mental health and provide her fans with a message of hope. Also hear a conversation with Jenny Boyts, CEO of Forty5, a locally owned Indianapolis production company specializing in live music events. Forty5 owns and operates local venues including The Vogue and Turntable, and produces live concert series like Rock the Ruins at Holiday Park. Boyts rose to prominence in Indianapolis through her work with Indy Pride, serving as Indy Pride's board president for 4 years. Boyts says the relationships she created while building community with Indy Pride have informed her work with Forty5.

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We're taking the show on the road this year to celebrate our 30th Anniversary! This week, we bring you to our first stop, Indianapolis, in partnership with WFYI. We dig into the local food scene with restaurateur Martha Hoover, owner of Cafe Patachou and the founder of the Patachou Foundation. We talk to her about her start as a prosecutor turned restaurateur and how the restaurant scene has changed over her 35-plus years running a restaurant in Indianapolis. Then, we welcome Samir Mohammad of 9th Street Bistro, Zoë Taylor of Borage, and food writer and Eater correspondent Brian Garrido to the stage to talk about the present: Indianapolis's new and booming food scene. Then, we close the show with a heartwarming story of Isaac Roman and Thomas Hayes re-opening Indy's beloved Rene's Bakery.Broadcast dates for this episode:February 21, 2025 (originally aired)Generous listeners like you make The Splendid Table possible. Donate today to support the show