In this episode of "The Anna Jinja Show", Anna speaks with Max Wieland, a Chinese-American adoptee and trans man whose story explores the complexities of identity, family, and belonging. Adopted from China as a baby and raised in Minneapolis, Max shares what it means to grow up between cultures and how embracing his gender identity added new depth to his journey. From attending a Chinese immersion school to building a life with his partner Alexis, Max reflects on the ongoing nature of adoption and self-discovery. His story offers honest, hopeful insight into how we create communities that celebrate all of who we are. Featuring the song "Heart of You" by Ian Vidovic.

This week on The OUtlet, a verdict brings closure to a Nelsonville City Council dispute, and a historic cut to SNAP benefits impacts millions nationwide.

Last year, nearly 60% of manufacturers in the National Association of Manufacturers cited attracting employees as a top challenge. Some local nonprofits are working to change that.

This episode of "The Anna Jinja Show" features Lane Igoudin, author of "A Family Maybe," a memoir detailing his and his partner's experience navigating the Los Angeles County foster care system. Rita Soronen, President and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation, joins to contextualize the broader issues within the child welfare system and advocate for reform. The episode also includes a performance by musician Bruce Dalzell, who shares “Future,” an original song inspired by Igoudin’s story.

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.