Third Space Indy

Exploring Literacy and Community: A Conversation with Ruba Marshood of Indy Reads

In the 10th episode of the Third Space Indy podcast, host Michael Zarick interviews Ruba Marshood, the CEO of Indy Reads, an organization in Indianapolis dedicated to advancing literacy for all. Ruba shares insights into her background, her role at Indy Reads, and the increasing demand for their programs. The conversation delves into the broader meanings of literacy, the interconnectedness of communities, and the importance of writing and reading in shaping society. Ruba also reflects on the influential stories of her grandmothers and the cultural significance of food within Middle Eastern and Palestinian heritage. The episode concludes with a discussion on the power of books and ideas to create and unite communities.

00:00 Introduction and Dedication

00:52 Meet Ruba Marshood: CEO of Indy Reads

02:01 Ruba's Background and Journey

03:18 Defining Literacy and Indy Reads' Mission

06:30 Indy Reads' Programs and Community Impact

21:56 Personal Reflections on Reading

36:01 Cultural Heritage and Family Ties

37:47 Influence of Grandparents

39:08 Historical Context and Family Stories

48:18 Palestinian and Lebanese Cuisine

51:52 Arab American Identity and College Experience

54:04 Indy Reads and Literacy Initiatives

56:59 The Power of the Written Word

01:02:02 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Building Community: An Interview with Urban Times’ Bill Brooks

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick interviews Bill Brooks, a seasoned journalist who manages the Urban Times, a downtown Indianapolis-focused newspaper. Brooks shares his extensive experience in journalism, detailing his roles at various newspapers and his move to downtown Indianapolis over three decades ago. He talks about the evolution and revitalization of neighborhoods like Lockerbie, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and continuous effort to maintain thriving communities. They also discuss the significance of local third spaces like the Red Door Cafe and the Chatterbox for fostering community connections. Furthermore, Brooks provides insights into the complexities of urban planning and neighborhood improvements, sharing inspirational stories of collective neighborhood efforts. The episode concludes with a reflection on the enduring value of community engagement and the essential role of personal effort in building and maintaining meaningful relationships.

00:00 Introduction to Lockerbie and Community Building

01:17 Meet Bill Brooks: The Man Behind Urban Times

02:59 Bill's Journey in Journalism

06:00 The Birth and Growth of Urban Times

08:32 The Vibrant Neighborhoods of Indianapolis

11:26 Challenges and Triumphs of Urban Living

15:58 Community Engagement and Social Dynamics

34:18 The Paradox of Connection

34:35 A Welcoming Community at Red Door Cafe

35:59 Making Friends Through Boldness

37:27 Reflections on Indianapolis

38:44 The Evolution of Mass Ave

42:12 Personal Stories and Local History

44:43 Favorite Third Spaces in Indianapolis

47:31 Hidden Gems and Local Secrets

56:22 Final Thoughts and Outro

Building a Community Around Public Transit with Will Hazen

In this episode of 'Third Space Indy,' host Michael Zarick interviews Will Hazen, a third-generation transit operator who has dedicated his career to improving public transit in Indianapolis. Will shares his journey from working at a railroad museum in Michigan to becoming a coach operator for IndyGo, reflecting on how his family history has influenced his passion for public transit. They discuss the unique challenges and joys of being a bus operator, including how interactions with riders inspire him daily. The conversation also delves into the benefits of public transit for the community, the versatility of buses, and Will’s intriguing hobby of collecting and transforming old buses. This episode sheds light on the impact of public transportation on community building and offers a glimpse into the personal experiences of someone deeply involved in the transit world.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:10 Will Hazen's Background and Career

02:51 Experiences and Stories from the Bus

06:00 The Importance of Public Transit

24:55 Will Hazen's Personal Life and Interests

36:52 Favorite Coffee Shops and Appetizers

37:37 Cycling in Indianapolis

38:07 Bike Accidents and Helmet Debate

40:03 Gravel Bikes and Biking Infrastructure

46:06 Owning and Driving Buses

54:26 Creative Uses for Old Buses

58:57 Inspiration from Bus Riders

01:06:31 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Emergent Urbanism and Community Building with Jeffrey Tompkins

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick speaks with Jeffrey Tompkins, an urban planner from Indianapolis. They discuss the concept of emergent urbanism, the historical development of cities, and the balance between policy-driven planning and organic growth. Jeffrey shares his professional journey, his vision for Indianapolis, and insights into urban design. The conversation also touches on community engagement, the challenges of city planning, and the importance of maintaining a balance between bureaucracy and natural urban development. They highlight local spots like Mass Ave, the Athenaeum, and Coat Check Coffee, underscoring the vibrant community and potential for growth in Indianapolis.

00:00 Introduction to Emergent Urbanism

01:00 Meet Jeffrey Tompkins: Urban Planner Extraordinaire

02:03 Jeffrey's Journey into Urban Planning

05:31 Challenges and Opportunities in Urban Design

09:22 The Success and Evolution of Mass Ave

12:35 Balancing Bureaucracy and Urban Growth

16:13 The Importance of Density and Infrastructure

21:06 Revitalizing Communities: Small Actions, Big Impact

25:29 The Visual Design of Cities

32:37 Upcoming Adventures and Personal Insights

33:31 Rainforest Adventure Plans

33:38 Travel Logistics and Concerns

35:02 Pacers Playoff Predictions

35:53 The Power of Sports in Community Building

40:45 Exploring Local Hangouts

41:10 Neighborhood History and Trivia

42:52 Favorite Local Spots

49:05 Urban Planning and Pedestrian Infrastructure

53:45 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Building Community through Lille Bønne: A Deep Dive with Abby Reckard

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick speaks with Abby Reckard, a key inspiration behind the podcast and a community builder in Fletcher Place, Indianapolis. Recorded at the Central Library, the episode delves into Abby's journey of transforming a historic building into Lille Bønne, a community living room. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of renovating the space, the importance of community engagement, and the broader impact of fostering in-person connections post-COVID. The conversation also touches on tactical urbanism projects, local zoning issues, and the vibrant neighborhood of Fletcher Place. With anecdotes, personal reflections, and a look at the future of community building, this episode offers an insightful glimpse into grassroots efforts to enhance communal spaces in Indianapolis.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Setup

01:10 Meet Abby Reckard: Inspiration Behind the Podcast

02:04 The Vision of Lille Bønne

03:03 Building Community in Fletcher Place

04:55 Challenges and Triumphs in Renovating a Historic Building

13:36 Community Events and Tactical Urbanism

20:59 Navigating Red Tape and Financial Hurdles

28:54 The Importance of Local Government and Zoning

35:17 Exploring Fletcher Place: A Local's Guide

36:14 Exploring Edna Balz Lacy Park

37:17 Community Vibes at Calvin Fletcher

37:59 Local Eateries and Their Stories

40:19 Fletcher Place: Past, Present, and Future

47:05 Art and Placemaking in Indianapolis

51:11 Sports and Community Spirit

56:13 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Building Community and Art in Indianapolis: A Conversation with Kate Grimm

In this episode of the Third Space Indy podcast, host Michael Zarick interviews Kate Grimm, an arts administrator and Production Director for Tonic Ball, an event that brings local artists together to raise funds for hunger relief. Kate shares her journey from working in various arts organizations in Indianapolis to her involvement in the local music scene. They discuss the vibrant art and music community in Indianapolis, the need for more all-ages venues, and the potential for growth in local festivals. The episode also touches upon the unique identity of different neighborhoods in the city and the importance of community support for the arts.

00:00 Introduction to Third Space Indy

00:40 Meet Kate Grimm: Arts Administrator

01:02 Tonic Ball: A Community Event

01:46 Kate's Role in the Indy Music Scene

02:42 Challenges and Skills in Music Administration

04:59 Tonic Ball Details and Impact

10:41 Indy's Vibrant Music Scene

18:53 Personal Stories and Community Vibes

23:54 The 16-Acre Field Dilemma

24:45 Exploring Near Northside's Hidden Gems

25:50 Imagining a Third Space

26:59 The Monon Trail Experience

30:05 Fountain Square Adventures

32:18 The Vibrant Art Scene in Indy

37:54 Community Support for the Arts

39:30 Final Thoughts and Future Questions

Building Community: Jenna Hadley at COhatch Broad Ripple

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael Zarick sits down with Jenna Hadley, the community manager at COhatch Broad Ripple. Jenna shares her journey from her small-town roots in Pendleton, Indiana, to her career in Indianapolis, including her time at Butler University and her various living experiences. The conversation touches on the concept of a 'third space', the importance of community-building, and the unique culture and challenges of Indianapolis. Jenna also discusses the role of COhatch in supporting startups and non-profits through their scholarship program, and her passion for creating a cozy and inclusive workspace. They also explore favorite local spots and the need for more inclusive and accessible public spaces in the city.

00:00 Heartwarming Moments at COhatch

00:43 Introducing Third Space Indy Podcast

01:11 Meet Jenna Hadley: Community Manager

02:59 Jenna's Journey: From Pendleton to Indianapolis

06:54 The Role of a Community Manager

12:59 Life in Indianapolis: Personal Reflections

17:56 The Magnetism of Hometowns

21:51 Indianapolis: A City of Culture and Community

29:23 Reflecting on Public Transportation

32:48 The Charm of Fountain Square

35:55 Broad Ripple's Safety and Community Initiatives

41:14 Favorite Spots in Indianapolis

48:00 Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts

Creating Community Through Film: A Conversation with Khaled Khlifi

In this episode, Khaled Khlifi, the creative and marketing director at Kan-Kan Cinema and Restaurant in Indianapolis, discusses his role in promoting the cinema's unique offerings and its impact on the local community. Khaled shares how Kan-Kan aims to be a neighborhood hub by showcasing films that aren't typically shown in Indianapolis, as well as hosting events that foster community engagement. He talks about the importance of art in creating meaningful connections and his personal journey from Georgia to Indianapolis. Khaled also touches on the challenges and rewards of building a third space that serves as both an art space and a community center.

00:00 Introduction to Khaled Khlifi and Kan-Kan Cinema

01:09 Kan-Kan's Role in the Community

01:57 Unique Film Offerings and Nonprofit Mission

05:01 Supporting Local Filmmakers

08:52 Kan-Kan's Founding and Growth

09:35 The Concept of a Third Space

13:22 The Impact of Art on Community

19:16 The Origin of the Name 'Kan-Kan'

21:28 Moving to Indianapolis

22:19 Settling in During the Pandemic

22:54 Discovering the Art Scene

25:12 Living in the Neighborhood

26:23 Community and Connectivity

32:34 Reflections on Fear and Aspirations

38:39 Final Thoughts and Future Questions

Mark Latta, a community-focused educator and founder of City Rising, discusses the long-term impacts of historical decisions, the concept of futurity, and his efforts to encourage future-oriented thinking. He shares his journey from teaching at a juvenile correctional facility to community engagement at Marian University, emphasizing the importance of allowing individuals to envision their own futures. Mark talks about the unique character of the Near East Side of Indianapolis, the challenges posed by redlining, the potential for harm reduction, and the importance of local community efforts in shaping a better future.

00:00 Introduction to Mark Latta and City Rising

01:18 Mark's Journey in Education and Community Engagement

02:58 Challenges and Realizations in Higher Education

06:12 Imagining a Better Future

09:24 The Impact of Redlining and Community Disparities

11:46 Personal Reflections and Community Building

21:27 Living in Indianapolis and Building Community

28:57 Questioning Life in Indianapolis

29:49 The History and Transformation of Windsor Park

32:12 Community Spirit and Neighborhood Dynamics

34:37 Challenges and Changes in Indianapolis

35:57 Reflections on Leadership and City Development

39:56 Future Thinking and Community Spaces

43:28 Unique Flavor of Indianapolis

47:03 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Finding Beauty and Community in Indianapolis: A Conversation with Megan Jefferson

In this episode of Third Space Indy, host Michael talks to Megan Jefferson, a local mural and oil painter deeply rooted in the Indianapolis art scene. Megan discusses her journey from Cincinnati to Indianapolis, the inspirations behind her murals, and her involvement in community art projects. She highlights her passion for creating uplifting and impactful public art and describes the support she receives from the community. Megan also shares insights on the powerful connection between art and mental well-being and the importance of cultivating community spaces. The conversation includes the significance of third spaces like parks, libraries, and art centers in maintaining community bonds.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Journey

00:32 Meet Megan Jefferson: Local Artist

01:49 Megan's Artistic Journey

04:52 Community Impact and Murals

09:36 Artistic Inspirations and Collaborations

13:59 Balancing Art and Community

16:22 Finding Community in Indianapolis

19:01 The Power of Community Gatherings

20:21 City's Artistic Growth and Support

21:09 Supporting the Next Generation of Artists

22:30 Balancing Art and Personal Life

27:04 Inspiration from Europe and Public Transit

28:39 The Importance of Third Spaces

34:06 Final Thoughts and Reflections