The OUtlet

Hosts Ivars Balkits, Wendy McVicker, and Albert Rouzie read and discuss poetry.

This week on The OUtlet, new data reveals crime rates are lower here and across the country, and hands-on learning goes beyond the farm at the Vinton County Junior Fair.

St. Louis rockers THE BAND FEEL close out the first night of the 2025 Big Bend Blues Bash on Friday, August 1, bringing their genre-blending sound to the banks of the Ohio River. Fronted by a vocalist who cites both Chris Cornell and Ray Charles as touchstones—and anchored by a guitarist who names early Journey, Blind Willie McTell, and Celtic folk as influences—the band delivers a dynamic, roots-conscious take on modern rock.

That sound has earned the precocious four-piece over 85,000 monthly Spotify listeners and viral traction on Instagram and TikTok. Their latest, "Into the Sun"—recorded in Nashville and released earlier this year—offers an exciting snapshot of a band in the midst of a rapid evolution.

Speaking with WOUB ahead of the band's Southeast Ohio debut, guitarist and songwriter Tyler Armstrong reflected on how growing up “in a city, but right next to a cornfield” shaped his musical instincts, why THE BAND FEEL isn’t afraid to defy expectations by breaking out some acoustic numbers during their live sets, and how the respect and reverence for history instilled in him by his late father pulses through the band’s music.

This week on The OUtlet, Creek Jam pairs live music with fundraising to support local environmental projects, and firefighters are turning to the younger generation to address the volunteer shortage.

In this episode of "The Anna Jinja Show," Linda Sistrunk and Lish Greiner share their decades-long journey of providing unofficial foster care to over 30 children in Athens, Ohio. They discuss the challenges and rewards of building a home rooted in unconditional love, community care, and deep respect for biological families. Their honest conversation explores the emotional and relational complexity of creating belonging step by step. Singer-songwriter Kim Kaler contributes her original track “Scarf Song,” which captures the heart of their story with lyrics about trust, patience, and love. The episode is a moving portrait of everyday people doing extraordinary things through compassion and commitment.

This week on The OUtlet, plans to build affordable housing in The Plains raises concerns among residents, and a local ranch keeps rodeo traditions alive.

This episode of "The Anna Jinja Show" features adoptee Kristina Denbow, who shares her deeply personal journey from a Kazakhstani baby house to a life in Athens, Ohio. Kristina reflects on the emotional weight of experiencing multiple abandonments and the long-lasting impact it has had on her ability to trust love and connection. The episode highlights the importance of true friendship and empathy through the voices of Kristina’s longtime friends, who supported her as she navigated the challenges of adoption and identity. As she prepares to return to Kazakhstan in search of answers, her story emphasizes the value of facing fear with courage and the importance of supportive family, including her adoptive mother’s encouragement. With grace and vulnerability, Kristina offers insight and tools for resilience that will resonate with adoptees and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of where they come from.

This week on The OUtlet, the future of an iconic Marietta landmark is up in the air, and a special event in Athens gives participants their moment to shine.

In this episode of "The Anna Jinja Show", guests Roxanne Malè-Brune and Bernhard Debatin—strangers until now—connect over shared experiences of early family disruption and the lifelong journey to find belonging. Their conversation, centered around Debatin’s song “Salty Sea,” explores how acknowledging life’s imperfections can lead to deeper compassion and resilience. Roxanne and Bernhard reflect on how childhood challenges shaped their adult lives, offering insights on grace, growth, and the power of human connection. This poignant episode reminds listeners that home and healing often emerge from the most unexpected places.

In this episode of "The Anna Jinja Show", Meredith Jensen and Sydney Roberts share powerful reflections on identity, belonging, and the meaning of family. Meredith, a communication professional, draws on her Appalachian roots and ecological metaphors to redefine what it means to belong. Sydney, adopted from China as an infant, offers a moving perspective on chosen family and the strength of connection across continents. Together, they explore how adaptation, like that of a dandelion, is an act of resilience, creativity, and love.