Voices of Indianapolis

Jeff Edge

Voices of Indianapolis is a podcast created by a classroom. Our mission is to educate students, as well as spread awareness to all of the wonderful voices that build and help curate our city.

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Society & CultureSociety & Culture

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Episode 1: Podcast Introduction

Episode 1: Podcast Introduction

Welcome to Voices of Indianapolis, the podcast where we bring you the stories, insights, and inspirations of the remarkable individuals shaping the heart and soul of our city. I'm your host Jeff Edge, and I am thrilled to embark on this journey of discovery with you.In this podcast, we'll be diving deep into the minds of innovators, collaborators, and communicators who are driving positive change in Indianapolis. From business leaders and artists to community activists and educators, we'll explore the diverse tapestry of voices that make our city so vibrant.Each episode, we'll sit down with these remarkable individuals to uncover their unique strengths, their perspective on our beloved city, and the experiences that have molded them into the influential figures they are today. We'll delve into their journeys, extracting the lessons they've learned, the challenges they've overcome, and the visions they have for the future of Indianapolis.Through these conversations, we hope to not only shed light on their individual successes but also to capture the essence of what makes Indianapolis a thriving community. We'll unearth the stories behind the projects that are shaping neighborhoods, the collaborations that are bridging divides, and the communication efforts that are connecting us all.At the heart of it all, Voices of Indianapolis aims to showcase the role models who are making a difference, fostering a sense of pride, and inspiring others to contribute to the betterment of our city. We believe that by sharing these stories, we can ignite a spark of change and encourage meaningful conversations that propel us forward.So, whether you're a longtime resident, a newcomer to the city, or simply curious about the people who are making waves in Indianapolis, this podcast is for you. Join us as we celebrate the power of community, delve into the minds of those who are shaping it, and uncover the ideas that will guide us into an even brighter future.Thank you for tuning in to Voices of Indianapolis. Let's amplify these voices, embrace our city's diversity, and work together to create a stronger, more united Indianapolis."

Episodes

Episode 11: The Many Voices of Indianapolis at Purdue Polytechnic High School's Community Fair

Episode 11: The Many Voices of Indianapolis at Purdue Polytechnic High School's Community Fair

Join us for a special on-site episode of Voices of Indianapolis, recorded at the inaugural Purdue Polytechnic Lab's Community Fair. In this dynamic episode, we immerse ourselves in the bustling atmosphere as businesses from across Indianapolis engage with students, offering invaluable opportunities for internships, shadow days, and future careers.Listen in as students receive personalized feedback on their resumes, embark on a journey of project discovery, and forge meaningful connections with the visionaries shaping our city's landscape. From insightful conversations to inspiring encounters, this episode encapsulates the spirit of collaboration and growth that defines Indianapolis. Tune in as we celebrate the vibrant tapestry of talent and innovation fueling our community's success.

Episode 10: Fighting Hunger with Second Helpings' Emily Martin

Episode 10: Fighting Hunger with Second Helpings' Emily Martin

"Hunger doesn't take a day off."Join us in this episode of Voices of Indianapolis as we delve into the heartwarming story of Second Helpings, a beacon of hope in Central Indiana's fight against hunger and poverty.Our guest, Emily Martin, from Second Helpings, takes us on a journey through their remarkable 25-year legacy. Each day, their dedicated volunteers and staff undertake a noble mission: rescuing surplus food from wholesalers, retailers, and restaurants, thus preventing unnecessary waste. But their impact doesn't stop there. With this rescued food, Second Helpings creates over 5,000 nutritious meals daily, which are distributed to more than 100 social service agencies, nourishing Hoosiers in need and strengthening community bonds.Yet, their commitment goes beyond feeding the hungry. Second Helpings' Culinary Job Training program empowers adults facing barriers to employment, equipping them with essential skills for thriving careers in the food service industry. Over 1,000 graduates have emerged from this transformative program, now serving as cooks, executive chefs, business owners, and culinary instructors throughout Central Indiana.Through our conversation with Emily, we gain insight into the profound impact Second Helpings has on individuals and communities alike. Join us as we celebrate their unwavering dedication to making a difference, one meal and one life at a time. Tune in to Voices of Indianapolis and be inspired by the remarkable work of Second Helpings, proving that kindness, compassion, and culinary excellence can truly change lives.

Episode 9: Helping Girls Go Further with Annayelli Pacheco of Girls Inc.

Episode 9: Helping Girls Go Further with Annayelli Pacheco of Girls Inc.

Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis values diversity and inclusion in all of its forms and the rich dynamics that make all of us unique, including, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, culture, socioeconomic status, disability status, national origin, family structure, religion, age, educational background, cognitive abilities, and organizational position.Girls Inc. ensures inclusion by integrating diversity in all aspects of their programming and operations, both internal and external. Embracing the diversity in our community allows Girls Inc. to better serve their participants, be a more inclusive organization, and achieve their mission of preparing all participants to be strong, smart and bold.

Episode 8: Fixing Indianapolis and Helping Homeowners in Need: Rebuilding Together with Kyle Hickman

Episode 8: Fixing Indianapolis and Helping Homeowners in Need: Rebuilding Together with Kyle Hickman

Rebuilding Stronger's mission is to bring volunteers and communities together to improve the homes and lives of homeowners in need. Approximately 400 volunteers are needed to successfully complete repairs on 15+ homes each year.Kyle Hickman with Rebuilding Together was able to give insight into civics, his work restoring houses in Indianapolis, the choices that brought him to his position, career successes, and how to help Indianapolis homeowners in need.

Episode 7: The Skills We Need at Our Jobs: A talk about workforce equity with the Markle Foundation's Trenae Thomas

Episode 7: The Skills We Need at Our Jobs: A talk about workforce equity with the Markle Foundation's Trenae Thomas

What are those necessary skills that students need, employees need, and employers are looking for?This week, the students are joined by Trenae Thomas, the Manager of Workforce Equity with the Markle Foundation.Trenae is a servant leader devoted to the growth and development of all humans . For the past 19 years she has served in the Indianapolis area to improve outcomes through access to mental health professionals, advocating for equitable learning environments, and as a leader in adult education, providing access to education, training, and resources to eliminate barriers and create pathways to quality jobs with the goal of improving individual, family, and community outcomes. Currently Trenae is a manager of workforce equity with the Markle Foundation supporting the ReWork America Alliance initiative, which is focused on providing skills and resources to improve employment outcomes for people of color using a skills-based approach. Between work and completion of her Ph.D in organizational leadership, Trenae enjoys a good book, concert, podcast, or binge-watching a good crime show. Recommendations are always welcomed!

Episode 6: Irvington Historical Society

Episode 6: Irvington Historical Society

Join us on a journey through time as we delve into the fascinating history of one of Indianapolis's most cherished neighborhoods. In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Anne Hardwick, a dedicated member of the Irvington Historical Society, as she unveils the rich tapestry of Irvington's past.Named after the renowned author Washington Irving, Irvington is a neighborhood steeped in history, and Anne shares the captivating stories of its early days, offering a glimpse into the past that has shaped the vibrant community we know today. We explore the roots of the Irvington Historical Society, which has been tirelessly collecting and preserving local history since 1964.But it's not just about the past; the Bona Thompson Center serves as a beacon of history, a place where the community's heritage comes to life. Anne walks us through the historic building that houses the Irvington Historical Society, offering insights into the fascinating exhibits that grace its halls. Best of all, the museum is open to the public, welcoming all to explore the treasures of Irvington without admission fees.As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Irvington Historical Society relies on the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers to fulfill its mission of connecting the neighborhood's past with its present. This episode is a testament to their dedication and their commitment to preserving the vibrant history of Irvington for future generations.Tune in to this episode to unearth the captivating stories of Irvington's past, housed within the walls of the Bona Thompson Center, and discover the tireless efforts of the Irvington Historical Society in keeping history alive for all to enjoy.

Episode 5: The Mind Trust: Transformative Educators. Rooted in Equity

Episode 5: The Mind Trust: Transformative Educators. Rooted in Equity

The Mind Trust invests in public education to transform lives in neighborhoods across Indianapolis. They work with our community toward a day when race and income are no longer predictors of life outcomes.In 2006, former Indianapolis mayor Bart Peterson and David Harris founded The Mind Trust to help Indianapolis think bigger about education. Since then, The Mind Trust has:Supported the launch of 45 public schools in Indianapolis through School Fellowships and capacity-building awardsBuilt a comprehensive strategy of support for existing schools and educatorsDeepened community engagement efforts to work with families and neighborhoods to help them advocate for the change they want to see in our education systemSolidified commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and invested in programs and initiatives to support the organization, Indianapolis schools, and nonprofits in pursuing equitySHOW NOTES:The Mind TrustCulturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain | Zaretta Hammond

Episode 4: PANEL of Educators: Innovating the "ecosystem" of education in America through collaboration

Episode 4: PANEL of Educators: Innovating the "ecosystem" of education in America through collaboration

Our school is joined by the esteemed Ecolab panel, a group of educators whose ultimate goal is to overhaul the ecosystem of education in America.Our guests for panel 1:- Kelly Young, founder and president of Education ReImagined, a nonprofit in Washington DC focused on transforming K-12 Education- Emily Bader, Chief Communications Officer for Education Reimagined- Alin Bennett, Vice President of Practice and Field Advancement at Education Reimagined (former principal at the Met)- Johnna Noll, administrator for Norris School District in Wisconsin- Trace Pickering, started learner-centered programs Iowa BIG and City View Community SchoolOur guests for panel 2:- Matt Kull, Director of Operations for the NACA-inspired Schools Network- Robert Kuprenas, Learning Design Architect at Norris School District- Robb Jackson, Data & Program Analyst at Norris School District- June Sadowski, Director of Operations at Norris School District- Bobbi Macdonald, Senior Partner for Ecosystem Growth & Advancement for Education Reimagined

Episode 3: Life Coach Jordan Bartlett

Episode 3: Life Coach Jordan Bartlett

Jordan Bartlett works as a certified life coach in Indianapolis. Follow him at Iam_JordanBartlett.

Episode 2: Pastor Jason Taber of Cornerstone

Episode 2: Pastor Jason Taber of Cornerstone

This week, we interviewed Pastor Jason Taber from Cornerstone Community Center & Church. There's a lot of good work happening at Cornerstone @ 2837 New York St.Here's how to help / get help:1. The Little Timmy Project can use donations for mothers & babies.2. There is fresh produce distributed on Thursdays.3. There is a donation bin that serves unhoused individuals.4. Cornerstone has a music program that helps students write and produce music on Wednesdays.

Episode 1: Podcast Introduction

Episode 1: Podcast Introduction

Welcome to Voices of Indianapolis, the podcast where we bring you the stories, insights, and inspirations of the remarkable individuals shaping the heart and soul of our city. I'm your host Jeff Edge, and I am thrilled to embark on this journey of discovery with you.In this podcast, we'll be diving deep into the minds of innovators, collaborators, and communicators who are driving positive change in Indianapolis. From business leaders and artists to community activists and educators, we'll explore the diverse tapestry of voices that make our city so vibrant.Each episode, we'll sit down with these remarkable individuals to uncover their unique strengths, their perspective on our beloved city, and the experiences that have molded them into the influential figures they are today. We'll delve into their journeys, extracting the lessons they've learned, the challenges they've overcome, and the visions they have for the future of Indianapolis.Through these conversations, we hope to not only shed light on their individual successes but also to capture the essence of what makes Indianapolis a thriving community. We'll unearth the stories behind the projects that are shaping neighborhoods, the collaborations that are bridging divides, and the communication efforts that are connecting us all.At the heart of it all, Voices of Indianapolis aims to showcase the role models who are making a difference, fostering a sense of pride, and inspiring others to contribute to the betterment of our city. We believe that by sharing these stories, we can ignite a spark of change and encourage meaningful conversations that propel us forward.So, whether you're a longtime resident, a newcomer to the city, or simply curious about the people who are making waves in Indianapolis, this podcast is for you. Join us as we celebrate the power of community, delve into the minds of those who are shaping it, and uncover the ideas that will guide us into an even brighter future.Thank you for tuning in to Voices of Indianapolis. Let's amplify these voices, embrace our city's diversity, and work together to create a stronger, more united Indianapolis."