The Confluence Cast

There is often a complex interplay between preservation and progress. A year into his exploration, Columbus Underground reporter Jesse Bethea continues to sift through the story of how the removal of remains from what was once the North Market parking lot unfolded. From the contentious removal of centuries-old graves to the forensic analysis of unearthed remains, today’s episode navigates the ethical, legal, and emotional complexities surrounding the issue.  In the quest to honor the past while embracing the future, we examine what lies beneath the surface of urban development and confront the ghosts of history that still shape our city today.

Shownotes

• Previous episode on the North Graveyard
• Come Get Your Dead series on Columbus Underground

Full transcript on page 2.

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The capital city’s food scene is often heralded. However, its taco truck scene has been often overlooked. Elwood Ellis, a freelance writer for Columbus Underground and self-proclaimed Taco Connoisseur, is trying to change that. Listen in as Elwood shares his journey and criteria for evaluating the diverse and authentic taco scene, emphasizing the importance of not ranking trucks but appreciating their unique offerings. He also discusses adventurous and vegetarian options available at taco trucks, the significance of quality ingredients, and the need for authenticity in dishes like Al Pastor tacos.

Shownotes

• Elwood Ellison on Columbus Underground
• @614tacos

Full transcript page 2.

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This podcast was not generated by AI. But it may have been influenced by it. As all industries consider how to use artificial intelligence in their work, Walker Evans, Susan Post, and I discuss how it relates to journalism, disclosure, and transparency. We cover Columbus Underground’s updated policy on the matter, how content generation should and should not be used in a newsroom, what AI thinks about the Columbus food scene, and a lively debate on the ethical challenges of how this new tool will affect our lives.

Shownotes

• Columbus Underground Artificial Intelligence Policy

Full transcript page 2.

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Big cities have big city problems. Columbus’s newest school board member argues that the inequity of our schools shows that we certainly are a big city. Brandon Simmons, also the youngest school board member ever elected, is on a mission to face the challenges of the district head-on. In an interview two days after his first board meeting, we discuss the challenges that the district faces, the power and importance of public education, and how he navigated the city’s political landscape to get into office.

Shownotes

• Brandon Simmons

Full transcript on page 2.

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As we ease into 2024, we’re taking a quick look back into some happenings that you may have missed as the year turned over. Columbus Underground co-founder and editor Walker Evans discusses a myriad of stories, including the latest in transportation, climate change, local politics, and a dash of comedy here in the capital city. 

Shownotes

• Hyperloop
• Bird Scooters
• Trees
• Food Truck Fest
• Climate Change
• Vanderelli Room
• New City Council
• State Minimum Wage
• Transgender Bill Veto
• Rag O Rama Closure
• Comedy Awards

Full transcript on page 2.

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As 2023 draws to a close and we stand on the brink of a new year filled with its own stories and surprises, it’s a time for reflection. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into a retrospective journey, revisiting the moments that defined the year for us. Join Walker Evans, Susan Post, and myself as we engage in a lively discussion about the most impactful, intriguing, and talked-about local stories that have unfolded over the past 365 days.

Shownotes

• North Graveyard
• Easton Mall
• Election Coverage

Full transcript on page 2.

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Just in time for the holidays, we’re taking out the trash. Columbus Underground Co-Founder Walker Evans sat down with Joe Lombardi, the executive director of the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio or SWACO. They discussed the strategies they are putting in place for a sustainable future, practical tips on reducing waste, and ways to celebrate sustainably this holiday season.

Shownotes

• SWACO

Full transcript on page 2.

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Access to transportation is not just about the journey but the opportunities it creates.

This week, Columbus Underground Co-Founder Walker Evans sat down with the staff at the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission to discuss the plan for LinkUS, Central Ohio’s strategic transportation initiative.

In the three interviews, Walker and his guests focus on investment and the impacts of the plan, their focus on equity and input, and explore the infrastructure enhancements that are coming to a route near you.

Shownotes

• LinkUS Columbus

The Confluence Cast is sponsored by The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission featuring stories about local and regional partners that envision and embrace innovative directions in economic prosperity, transportation, sustainability, and an inclusive Central Ohio. MORPC’s transformative programming, innovative services, and public policy initiatives are designed to promote and support the vitality and growth of the region.

Full transcript on page 2

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Ordering food on a delivery app? You may not know precisely where your dinner came from.

Columbus Underground Associate Editor Susan Post went down the rabbit hole of ghost kitchens and virtual brands in the restaurant industry.

In today’s episode, we explore the burgeoning scene of ghost kitchens in Columbus, unraveling their advantages, and the complex challenges they bring to the table.

But it’s not all about convenience. We’ll discuss the transparency issues these virtual brands pose, how they can be misleading to customers, and the implications for food origin disclosure.

Shownotes

• Eating for the Algorithm: The Haunting of Ghost Kitchens & Virtual Brands
• Susan Post

Full transcript on page 2.

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There’s a balance to be struck between storytelling and getting to the heart of what matters in writing. That’s especially true when writing about the arts.

Since 2015, Grant Walters has been writing about comedy and music for Columbus Underground, and he has stories behind the stories.

In a conversation with Columbus Underground co-founder Walker Evans, Walters explores the challenges and triumphs of restarting a writing career, the power of connecting with fans that aren’t his own, and the intricate process of writing about what truly matters.

They also discuss the everyday challenges of music journalism, the importance of supporting the local music community, and understanding the cultural identity of Columbus.

Shownotes

• Grant Walters on Columbus Underground

Full transcript on page 2.

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