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 Nya 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. Nya 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, Nya 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.

Third Space Indy is supported by City Rising

00:00 Introduction to Sapphic Social

01:09 Meet Michael Zarick and Third Space Indy

01:31 Introducing Nya 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 Nya'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.

Third Space Indy is supported by City Rising

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.

Third Space Indy is supported by City Rising

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.

Third Space Indy is supported by City Rising

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.

Third Space Indy is supported by City Rising

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

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick speaks with Windi Hornsby, a local IPS parent, about the upcoming Indiana Leadership Education Alliance (ILEA) meeting that will play a crucial role in determining the future of Indiana Public Schools (IPS). They explore the structure and mandate of the ILEA, the involvement of Mayor Joe Hogsett, and the implications of the proposed changes, particularly the potential removal of democratic control over the IPS school board. Windi shares her positive experiences with IPS, contrasting it with charter schools, while highlighting the importance of community voices in shaping educational policies. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to attend the ILEA meeting to support the future of public education in Indianapolis.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:57 Meet Windi Hornsby: An IPS Parent's Perspective

01:56 Understanding ILEA: What It Means for IPS

05:56 The Role of Charter Schools and The Mind Trust

14:18 Upcoming ILEA Meeting and Its Implications

28:08 Visual Presentation Issues

28:32 Introducing the Parent's Perspective

29:07 Choosing IPS: A Personal Journey

29:57 Challenges and Achievements in Education

34:53 The Impact of Spanish Immersion

38:28 IPS Family by Choice

50:13 Rebuilding Stronger and Charter Schools

56:40 Call to Action: ILEA Meeting

Exploring Disability Advocacy with Karly Keiper

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick interviews Karly Keiper, Professor of Disability Advocacy at Butler University. They discuss the concept of Third Places as outlined by Ray Oldenburg and explore Karly’s work in disability advocacy. The conversation delves into the importance of recognizing and advocating for people with disabilities, even those with invisible or less apparent disabilities such as anxiety or depression. Karly shares insights on teaching students about the history and ongoing fight for disability rights, including significant events like the section 504 sit-in. The episode highlights everyday actions listeners can take to support accessibility and references Karly’s personal journey in embracing her own disabilities. This thoughtful discussion emphasizes the need for community, accessibility, and breaking down stigmas associated with disabilities.

Third Space Indy is supported by City Rising

00:00 Introduction to Third Space Indy

00:43 Meet Karly Keiper: Disability Advocacy at Butler University

02:05 The Importance of Disability Advocacy

04:12 Teaching Disability History: The Fight for ADA

04:38 The 504 Sit-In: A Historic Protest

10:19 Personal Stories and Classroom Experiences

15:39 Understanding Invisible Disabilities

36:08 The Impact of Trauma and Disability

38:49 Challenges of Navigating the World with Disabilities

39:28 The Importance of Accessibility in Daily Life

40:32 Reed Davenport's Documentaries on Disability

41:36 Campus Accessibility Issues

44:14 The Concept of Third Spaces

45:22 Personal Stories and Reflections on Accessibility

49:01 Community and Social Impact

01:01:54 Practical Tips for Supporting Accessibility

01:11:02 Final Thoughts and Outro

In this special episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick sits down with Kayla from IndyGo to discuss recent developments and personal stories related to Indianapolis' public transportation system. They delve into updates on the Blue Line construction, the impact of increased fares, and the IndyGo Cares initiatives including Music in Transit, Food in Transit, and Wellness in Transit. Kayla shares her journey with IndyGo, from being a rider to becoming a ridership experience and outreach manager. The episode also highlights the importance of supporting public transportation, the role of the Transit Ambassador Program, and the benefits of using the MyKey card. They end with practical advice on holiday shopping via bus routes and encourage listeners to give public transit a try.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

01:20 Blue Line Construction Updates

05:26 IndyGo Cares Program Overview

08:11 Kayla's Journey with IndyGo

15:25 Fare Increase and MyKey Transition

17:30 Favorite Bus Routes and Personal Stories

19:32 Exploring Bus Routes 37 and 38

20:09 Discovering the 19 Bus Line

21:25 The Purple Line Experience

24:41 IndyGo Merchandise and Promotions

27:17 Community Connections on the Bus

29:10 Supporting Public Transportation

36:21 Final Thoughts and Holiday Shopping Tips

In this episode, Anderson and I ride the 8 bus out to the east side of the city and back and talk about whatever comes to our minds. We talk about how Anderson got his start and inspiration for being the Bench Mench, some visions of a better Indianapoli,s and overall just spend an hour talking about random stuff.

I am really thankful to have had Anderson on the show and I hope you enjoy.

Third Space Indy is supported by City Rising

00:00 Introduction: The Vision for a Better City

01:46 Highlighting Community Builders: The Third Place

02:51 Meet the Indy Bench Mench: Anderson York

04:44 Gifts and Foraging: Anderson's Unique Contributions

05:07 The Origin of Indy Bench Mench

08:24 Building Community: Benches and Beyond

20:05 Inspiration and Collaboration in Indianapolis

23:57 Challenges and Opportunities in the City

32:10 The Importance of Third Spaces

34:13 Parking Dilemma in Indianapolis

36:25 Heat Sink Effect on Snowfall

37:41 Third Spaces and Community Building

40:50 Libraries and Childhood Memories

42:28 The Decline of Third Spaces

43:45 Engaging the Youth

46:25 Public Safety and Transportation

48:18 Favorite Local Spots

53:12 Indianapolis vs. Other Cities

57:36 Vision for Indianapolis' Future

01:00:48 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts