Native Bread’s Hayley McGinley on Building an Allergen-Free Bakery

Michael Zarick hosts Third Space Indy and interviews Hayley McGinley, founder of Native Bread, an Indianapolis bakery that is 100% gluten-free and free of top allergens. Hayley shares how, after discovering a gluten sensitivity in 2015 during a Whole30, she started an artisan gluten-free bakery in 2016, growing from home recipe testing and Facebook sales to scaling production through shared kitchens like ClusterTruck and Duos while working a full-time job. They discuss food restriction and exclusion, local dining favorites, and how Native Bread helps families feel welcomed.

00:00 Food Freedom at Native Bread

01:14 Welcome to Third Space Indy

02:14 Allergen Free Bakery Mission

04:43 Baking Roots and Family

06:38 Discovering Gluten Sensitivity

09:55 Starting the Bakery Idea

12:24 Humble Beginnings and Scaling

20:37 COVID Yeast Shortage Panic

22:07 Living with Food Restrictions

25:42 Favorite Local Spots and Global Eats

32:12 Outspoken Values as a Business

32:40 History Awakening

34:55 From BLM to Gaza

36:41 Anti BDS Laws

41:03 Pushback and Trolls

44:56 Social Media Truths

45:51 Small Actions Matter

46:52 Canned Questions Begin

47:59 North Mass Third Space

51:04 Polyamory and Safety

52:52 Lost Third Spaces

56:02 Procrastination and Decisions

01:01:56 Wrap Up and Where to Find

01:03:07 Final Thanks and Outro

Third Space Indy: Sayra and Wendy of the Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance (IUYA)

Host Michael Zarick welcomes listeners to Third Space Indy and interviews Sayra and Wendy from the Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance (IUYA). Sayra explains IUYA’s origins in 2012 after anti-immigrant legislation and the passage of HB 1402 in 2011, which removed in-state tuition for undocumented students; the group initially fundraised through yard sales to award two $500 scholarships to Ivy Tech students and later incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in 2015. The conversation covers IUYA’s evolution into statewide “know your rights” workshops with attorneys during President Trump’s first presidency, emergency resources, a social justice mentorship program, ongoing scholarships, referrals and resource connections, community safety trainings, and current financial assistance for families impacted by ICE (including utilities, rent, and attorney fees). Wendy and Sayra discuss continuing their work despite being targeted, emphasizing long-standing community roots and the need to keep moving forward. They reflect on organizing history around the Dream Act, civil disobedience at the State House, and how youth organizing pressured the creation of DACA. The episode addresses Indiana’s SB 76 and how IUYA focuses on centering community needs and responding to legislative impacts rather than legislative advocacy itself, while encouraging non-impacted people to get involved through time, skills, or donations. They share how to volunteer via iuya.org and by messaging IUYA on Instagram, and highlight Indy Rapid Response as a local network offering trainings, a community safety training on Monday, February 23 at 7:30 PM, and a hotline (855-589-4639) to report ICE sightings.

Find IUYA online: Instagram/Facebook @undocuhoosier and iuya.org.

00:00 Why We Keep Going: ‘Aquí estamos y no nos vamos’

00:39 Welcome to Third Space Indy + Protecting Guest Identities

01:47 Meet Sayra & Wendy (Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance)

02:48 How IUYA Started: HB 1402 and the Fight for In‑State Tuition

04:06 From Scholarships to Know‑Your‑Rights: IUYA’s Programs Grow

06:47 Living With a Target: Staying Unafraid and Unapologetic

09:41 Sayra’s Organizing Journey: Dream Act Protests to DACA Pressure

13:25 Wendy’s Perspective: Learning the History Behind DACA

15:14 What SB 76 Could Mean + IUYA’s Community-First Response

18:45 How Allies Can Help: Time, Talent, Treasure + Direct Family Support Fund

22:06 14 Years In: Community & Business Support in Indianapolis

25:30 More Ways to Get Involved: Indy Rapid Response & Safety Trainings

28:07 Rapid Response Hotline & Last Call for Registration

28:54 Sponsor Shout-Out + Defining a “Third Space”

31:13 Third Spaces We’ve Lost: Restaurant Kitchens & School Community

34:17 Teacher & Mentor Shout-Outs (and Service Industry Real Talk)

37:49 What Makes a Business Worth Supporting? Safety Signals & Community Boards

40:48 Policy Reality Check + How to Show Up for Neighbors

43:22 Question for the Next Guest: What Do You Procrastinate Most?

44:32 Where to Find IUYA + Final Thanks and Sign-Off

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick talks with Alexa Hill, owner of Common Room Indy, a salon in Castleton that she describes as a “weird, gay, funky” safe space designed to feel more like a true community hub than a sterile, typical salon. They discuss the idea of “third places” and why salons naturally fit that definition through consistency, conversation, and trust. Alexa shares her 15-year journey in the hair industry, her business education, and how she ultimately took the leap from working in other salons before opening Common Room Indy.

The conversation covers how her unapologetic, values-forward presence online helped the business grow, including a viral Instagram reel that brought in like-minded stylists and clients. Michael and Alexa also talk about being explicit about political and community values, creating visibly safe spaces, supporting businesses aligned with those values, and the importance of clarity when choosing where to spend money.

00:00 Cold Open

01:29 Welcome to Third Space Indy

02:56 Meet Alexa Hill & Common Room Indy

05:45 Designing a Salon That Feels Like Home

07:47 “Therapy” in the Chair

09:17 The Gift of Gab

12:44 Why Hair Matters

17:39 From Cosmetology to Owner

20:59 Building the Team

24:18 Community Support & Local Spots

27:57 Choosing Castleton

29:16 Traffic, Parking, and Convenience

30:31 Serving Everyone

31:44 Why Hair Costs What It Costs

35:10 Hair Color Is Chemistry

36:17 Sponsor Break + Defining a ‘Third Space’

37:56 The Common Room Book Club

41:01 Indy Book Crawl

44:04 Being a Good Neighbor

46:58 Burlesque Classes at She Shop Fitness

49:31 Question for the Next Guest + Where to Find Alexa & The Common Room (Wrap-Up)

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick converses with Jalen Roseberry, the new Executive Director of DATHOUSE, about her journey from a coffee shop patron to a community leader. They delve into the essence of Third Spaces and how genuine, consistent engagement with local businesses can foster community spirit and meaningful relationships. Jalen shares insights about managing diverse initiatives within DATHOUSE, including a coffee shop, laundromat, and coworking spaces, and highlights the challenges and rewards of running a small nonprofit. The episode also explores Jalen's numerous activities and interests as a self-proclaimed 'ultimate dabbler,' ranging from her involvement in local nonprofit boards to organizing community dance parties. The conversation underscores the importance of showing up for your community and the organic growth of communal bonds through sustained effort.

00:00 Building Genuine Community Connections

01:13 Introduction to Third Space Indy

01:43 Meet Jalen Roseberry

02:12 The Story of Lincoln Lane Coffee

07:07 The Evolution of DATHOUSE

11:31 Challenges and Leadership in Nonprofits

19:06 The Ultimate Dabbler

35:38 Monster Truck Rally Adventures

37:00 Women in Monster Truck Driving

38:10 Cat Calls: A Space for Women and Queer Folk

38:31 Themes and Dress Codes for Events

39:39 Canned Questions and Third Spaces

43:45 Memories of Past Third Spaces

46:43 Books and Reading Habits

50:24 Movie Discussions and Favorites

59:34 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Launching a new Third Space Indy series - videos where we slow down, hear a restaurant owner’s story, and dive deeper into the dishes that make their menu special. What should we call this series?

Amanda and I couldn’t have asked for a better place to start. Wisanggeni Pawon is fueled by passion, dedication, and a desire to showcase Indonesian cuisine. It was so lovely hearing just a piece of Aji and Tiwi’s story and getting to share it with you all and of course, eating all the food.

📍 Wisanggeni Pawon

2450 E 71st St, Indianapolis, IN

Want even more Indonesian food? Every third Wednesday, they host a traditional Indonesian buffet featuring dishes beyond their regular menu and kids 10 and under eat free.

Interested in sponsoring this series? Send us a DM!

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick sits down with Naya Anthony, the founder of Sapphic Social. They discuss the origins and mission of Sapphic Social, a community group supporting trans, immigrant, and queer people through various events and meet-ups. Naya shares her journey from starting the group on an app to organizing events that foster meaningful connections among the queer community. The conversation also touches on the role of third spaces, the challenges of leadership, and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Additionally, Naya talks about her research on reducing police brutality and her passion for Black and queer history. The episode emphasizes the value of community support and the power of showing up for marginalized groups.

00:00 Introduction to Sapphic Social

01:09 Meet Michael Zarick and Third Space Indy

01:31 Introducing Naya Anthony and Sapphic Social

02:12 The Origins of Sapphic Social

03:01 Defining Sapphic and Its Importance

06:19 Events and Activities of Sapphic Social

07:07 Challenges and Leadership in Sapphic Social

18:26 Political Action and Community Support

19:30 Naya's Research and Academic Background

29:21 The Concept of Third Spaces

31:20 The Art of Small Talk

31:52 Breaking Stereotypes in the Lesbian Community

32:48 Book Clubs and Literary Discussions

34:02 The Concept of Third Places

35:52 Leadership and Community Building

39:24 Exploring Afrofuturism and Art

44:11 The Importance of Showing Up

52:47 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick interviews Savannah Jacob, a local ceramicist and community builder. Savannah discusses her efforts in Indianapolis, particularly through the Bates Hendricks Neighbors Gallery, to foster local art and community engagement. The conversation covers Savannah's experiences in art shows, the process of creating ceramics, and the unique charm of the Bates Hendricks neighborhood. They also delve into the broader theme of community improvement and the balance between neighborhood development and maintaining its intrinsic character.

00:00 Introduction to The Third Place

00:51 Meet Savannah Jacob: Local Ceramicist and Community Builder

01:16 Savannah's Journey to the Podcast

02:05 The Bates Hendricks Neighbors Gallery

03:49 Creating and Managing Art Installations

10:28 Savannah's Ceramic Art and Craft Shows

22:42 Life in Bates Hendricks

31:57 Balancing Home and Business Space

32:19 Community Connections and Studio Setup

32:39 Considering a Bigger Space

33:07 Navigating Business Growth

34:23 Political Engagement and Art

34:44 Personal Reflections and Online Persona

35:24 Exploring Third Spaces

35:31 Sponsorship and Community Impact

40:34 Memories of Childhood and Art

52:56 Chemistry and Ceramics

58:50 Concluding Thoughts and Farewells

In this episode of 'Third Space Indy,' host Michael Zarick talks with Keaun Michael Brown, a writer, artist, and community builder from Indianapolis. Keaun shares his journey of using art and storytelling to heal himself and his community, driven by a deep sense of rage and unhealed wounds. He discusses his struggles, including financial difficulties and his mother's cancer, and how he channels his anger into positive actions. The conversation also explores the concept of Third Places, with Keaun highlighting his favorite community spots and the importance of investing in local talent. The episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, creativity, and the power of community.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Struggles

02:00 Meet Michael Zarick and The Third Place Concept

03:31 Introducing Keaun Michael Brown

03:59 Keaun's Role at Ujaama Bookstore

05:09 The Importance of Community and Art

07:47 Keaun's Background and Personal Journey

11:09 The Power of Storytelling and Minor Interactions

14:57 Reflections on Society and Personal Growth

18:01 The Concept of Third Spaces

21:31 Final Thoughts and Reflections

37:04 A Chance Encounter with a Stranger

38:08 Reflections on Identity and Perception

38:40 New Year's Eve Memories

39:10 A Heartfelt Gesture at Riley's Hospital

40:06 The Power of Stories and Empathy

43:59 The Concept of Third Spaces

46:14 Pigeons and Doves: A Reflection on Perception

48:19 The Changing Face of Charlotte

52:02 Investing in Local Talent

55:59 The Value of Individual Stories

01:07:32 Final Thoughts and Farewells

In this episode of the Third Space Indy podcast, host Michael Zarick reconnects with old friend and DJ, Michael McReynolds, also known as Sweater Disco. They discuss the evolution of Michael's music journey, from his high school days of experimenting with electronic music to becoming a well-known DJ in Indianapolis. Michael elaborates on the unique experiences of DJing, the importance of finding inspiration, and how his music serves as a diary reflecting different phases of his life. They also delve into the concept of 'Third Place' as coined by Ray Oldenberg, the challenges and community aspects of the local DJ scene, and share personal anecdotes about creating meaningful and accessible community spaces through music.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections

00:48 The Concept of the Third Place

01:17 Reconnecting with Michael McReynolds

02:59 The Origin of Sweater Disco

04:10 High School Memories and Early DJ Days

06:10 The Art and Craft of DJing

09:06 Challenges and Evolution in DJing

20:46 The Importance of Community and House Parties

26:10 Current Nightlife and Future Aspirations

32:55 Shoutouts to Local Talents

33:40 Discovering the Indianapolis Music Scene

35:55 The DJ Life and Music Production

40:00 Exploring Third Spaces

49:53 Reflecting on Past Third Spaces

52:51 Fun and Thought-Provoking Questions

58:26 Wrapping Up and Upcoming Events

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick interviews Lillian Barkes, CEO and Co-founder of Listen to Our Future. They discuss the systemic issues leading to youth violence, the importance of addressing root causes, and the significance of providing safe, supportive community spaces. Lillian shares her experiences growing up in Indianapolis, her journey into youth work, and the challenges faced during her teaching career, especially under COVID-19 conditions. They explore the concept of 'third places' and the impact of positive and negative influences on young people. Both emphasize the need for community support, grassroots initiatives, and systemic change to better the lives of youth in Indianapolis.

00:00 Early Childhood Reflections

01:47 The Concept of Third Place

02:17 Meeting Lillian Barkes

03:30 Introduction to Listen to Our Future

04:19 Personal Journey and Challenges in Education

09:59 Impact of COVID on Teaching

13:14 Addressing Systemic Issues in Education

24:43 Creating Safe Spaces for Youth

34:21 The Decline of Circle Center Mall

35:26 Rising Rent and Housing Challenges

36:22 Supporting Parents and Reducing Youth Crime

38:43 Introducing Third Space Indy

39:35 Defining a Third Space

42:24 Personal Reflections on Church and Community

46:03 Final Thoughts and Future Guests

46:16 Accessibility and Infrastructure