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On this episode of Conversation Piece, middle school teachers and advocates for public education Tina Ahlgren and Ronak Shah stop by to discuss the complexities and challenges facing Indianapolis' public schools, including the impact of charter schools, vouchers, and historical segregation. Tina and Ronak highlight the importance of stability, equitable resources, and community collaboration to ensure all students receive the education they deserve. They also talk about the need for systemic change and the role of teachers in fostering meaningful relationships with students despite the turbulent landscape of education policy.Connect with Tina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinacahlgren/Email Tina: tinaahlgren@gmail.comLearn more from Chalkbeat Indiana: https://www.chalkbeat.org/indiana/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: THE IPS SCHOOL BOARD + ADMINSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Parish Butler stops by to talk about his deep love of music. Parish shares his journey from Limewire baby, his first experience with Kanye West's music (Through the Wire), and the difference between appreciation for music then versus the lack of appreciate for it now. Connect with Parish on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parish_butler/The Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024.Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Leslie Bailey stops by to discuss the heaviness that is closing her business, Maven Space. Leslie shares how she came to this decision, the process of winding down those operations over the last few weeks of March, and what it means to model "closing out loud" for others, particularly women small business owners.Follow Indy Maven on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indymaven/Connect with Leslie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesalina/Learn more about Indy Maven: https://indymaven.com/Register for the Free Press Indiana fundraiser: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XEIhcIbzePioxa7GuTBQ6WEz3BSFuS0A/view?usp=sharingThe Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024.Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Matt Hadley stops by to talk about why relationships are our most valuable asset. Matt shares how he was first inspired to start building relationships, where we can start building them ourselves, and how it all led him to start his own show, Circle City Success Podcast.Follow Circle City Success on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/circlecitysuccess317/Connect with Matt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsmatthadleyindy/Learn more about Circle City Success: https://www.circlecitysuccess.com/The Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024.Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of Conversation Piece, Lindsay Labas, Vice President of Marketing Communications at the 500 Festival, stops by the studio to talk all things 500 Festival. First, Lindsay shares her journey from her early days in marketing with the Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation Department to how she ended up in her current role at the Festival, highlighting her passion for community building, storytelling, and running. She also gets into the 500 Festival's mission, its impact on the community, and her personal experiences with running and advocacy for inclusivity.Learn more about the 500 Festival: https://500festival.com/Follow the 500 Festival on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/500festival/Follow Lindsay on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irun4mirra/Connect with Lindsay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaylabasShout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: the VOLUNTEERS who support the 500 FestivalSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this week's episode of Conversation Piece, Starla Kay Mathis and Lateva Woolfolk, founders of Create. Connect. Collab. (CCC), an organization dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, stop by the studio to discuss their journeys into entrepreneurship, the importance of community, and how CCC provides a safe space for women to overcome barriers, build confidence, and grow their businesses. They also share how deeply intertwined their personal and entrepreneurial stories are, the challenges they’ve faced, and the impact of their work in Indianapolis and beyond.Learn more about CCC: https://www.createconnectcollab.com/Connect with CCC: https://www.instagram.com/createconnectcollab/ Check out Mathis Media: https://www.mathis-media.com/Connect with Lateva: https://www.instagram.com/latevawoolfork/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: the families and the CCC family!Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

Attacks on public education have seen an exponential increase as of this most recent presidential election. In Indiana, a flurry of bills aimed at stripping (and ultimately dissolving) resource from Indianapolis Public Schools are still being heard as we approach the end of the legislative session. People are fighting, though, and on this Emergency Episode of Conversation Piece, recently elected IPS Commissioner of District 4 Allissa Impink stops by to discuss the challenges facing Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), including the potential impact of SB518, which could divert funding from IPS to charter schools, and the importance of community advocacy and intersectionality in public education. Allissa shares her journey from child welfare to education, her passion for serving the community, and the critical role of parents, teachers, and students in fighting for equitable and well-funded public schools.Attend an IPS school board meeting: https://myips.org/blog/district/march-2025-board-meetings/Join the IPS Parent Council: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1srv0nQZRU6ozsaZHAvI7FV5M6Co0rmkNBevZTteIzxM/viewform?edit_requested=trueConnect with IPS: https://www.instagram.com/ipsschools/Connect with Allissa: https://www.instagram.com/allissamimpink/ | https://www.instagram.com/commissioner_impinkforips/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Dr. Aleesia JohnsonSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this week's episode of Conversation Piece, Sirius Blvck and Scott Matelic drop by the studio to talk about their recent album, Daily Rituals of the Wild Heart (available now!). The duo delves into the creative process behind the project, exploring themes of rebirth, reflection, and the importance of daily rituals. We also discuss their personal journeys, the communal nature of the album, and how they hope listeners will feel rejuvenated and inspired by their work, as well as Naptown's vibrant and top tier hip hop scene.Get Daily Rituals of the Wild Heart: https://siriusblvck.bandcamp.com/album/daily-rituals-of-the-wild-heartFollow Sirius on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/siriusblvck/Follow Scott on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmatelic/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Scott, Sirius, DJ Top SpeedSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this week's episode of Conversation Piece, we're on location at Tomorrow Bookstore with owners Jake Budler and Julia Breakey! Jake and Julia talk about their journey from South Africa to Indiana, the importance of global literature, and how their bookstore has become a hub for community and conversation. They delve into the challenges of immigration, the political nature of curation, and the impact of their events, including the Indy Indie Book Crawl, which brings together local bookstores and readers. We also highlight their commitment to creating a space where people can discover unexpected experiences, engage in meaningful dialogue, and find representation in literature.Connect with Tomorrow Bookstore: https://tomorrowbookstore.com/Follow the team on Instagram: https://instagram.com/tomorrowbookstoreVisit them in person: 882 Mass Ave.Author? Artist? Trying to do something cool at a bookstore? Hit up Jake: jake@tomorrowbookstore.comLearn more about the Indy Indie Book Crawl: https://bit.ly/indyindiebookcrawl2025Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Megan Telligman of the Indiana Humanities!Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Bo Turner stops by for a last-minute conversation about her latest entrepreneurial venture, Find Indianapolis. Bo shares why she started Find Indianapolis, how Indianapolis is a "big small town" with big city amenities AND small town community support, and explains how her love for experiences ties it all together.Follow Find Indianapolis on Instagram: https://instagram.com/findindianapolisConnect with Bo on Instagram: https://instagram.com/itsjustboLearn more about Find Indianapolis: https://www.findindianapolis.com/The Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024.Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Katresha Taylor, a hospice worker with over 20 years of experience, stops by the studio to talk about normalizing grief, redefining it as "love in action," and exploring communal grieving processes. Katresha shares insights from both her professional experience and personal journey, highlighting that the biggest misconception about grief is thinking we need to fix others rather than simply sitting with them in their discomfort.Connect with Katresha on Instagram: https://instagram.com/a_heart_full_of_whimsyLearn more about Brighton Hospice: https://brightonhospice.com/The Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024.Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Hang Doan, a 19-year-old gender fluid film student at IUPUI, stops by the studio to discuss their experience practicing advocacy through casual existence, the pressure to be exceptional as a trans person, and the power of cities like Indianapolis to create change. Hang also shares what they feel is the biggest misconception about the trans community.Connect with Hang on Instagram (business): https://instagram.com/hanghoamaiConnect with Hang on Instagram (personal): https://instagram.com/thuhangdoanSubscribe to Hang's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hanghmaiThe Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024.Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this week's episode of Conversation Piece, King Dierre stops by our new studio* to talk about his latest album, Dirty Dirty, an ode to his time at Jackson State University that bridges his experiences between Indianapolis and Jackson, Mississippi. Dierre breaks down the creative process for the album, from the intentionality of his choices in song structure to who he's collaborating with and why. He also shares about his recent journalism work and what it means to lean into uncertainty as graduation approaches. Oh yeah, 4200Kory is here!*this conversation was recorded in mid-December, hence our previous tagline and our as of yet dialing in of the space. Shout out to Pattern Indy for working with us.Tap in with King Dierre: https://solo.to/kxngdierreTap in with 4200Kory: https://linktr.ee/4200koryTap in with Slum Baby Family: https://linktr.ee/slumbabyfamilyShout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: King Dierre himself from the man, 4200Kory!Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

A wave of bills targeting people from all walks of life in Indiana are being heard right now during Indiana's 2025 legislative session. Some bills have already passed, others have fizzled out, and the onslaught of news and information coming out (or not) can feel impossible to keep up with. That's what groups like Moms for Indiana. On this Emergency Episode of Conversation Piece, co-founders Ellen FitzGerald and Chelsea McDonough stop by to discuss their work making complex state legislation accessible to busy parents and caregivers through social media education and advocacy. Ellen and Chelsea break down critical bills affecting Indiana schools and voting rights, including SB1 (property tax cuts impacting school funding), SB518 (charter school funding), and bills aiming to restrict primary voting and early voting periods (SB287 + HB1230). They also emphasize the importance of local engagement and making political information digestible for their audience, particularly focusing on public education, voting rights, and local elections.Follow and amplify Moms For Indiana on Instagram: https://instagram.com/momsforindianaFollow Ellen on Instagram: https://instagram.com/ellenbobellenFollow Chelsea on Instagram: https://instagram.com/twotwentyoneSubscribe to Ellen's Substack, Choreographed Chaos: https://ellenfitzgerald.substack.com/People + Resources mentioned in this episode:Corrine Straight: https://www.tiktok.com/@corinnestraightMAD Voters: https://www.madvoters.org/Emily in Your Phone: https://emilyinyourphone.substack.com/Howdy Politics: https://howdypolitics.substack.com/Motherhood for Good: https://www.motherhoodforgood.com/Awakening Through Parenthood: https://awakeningthroughparenthood.com/Americans for Democracy: https://adaction.org/Mrs. Frazzled: https://www.tiktok.com/@mrs.frazzled?lang=enIndiana House Dems: https://www.instagram.com/inhousedemocrats/Indiana Senate Dems: https://www.instagram.com/insendems/Senator Hunley: https://andreahunley.com/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Senators Shelli Yoder and Andrea Hunley, Emily Amick (@emilyinyourphone)Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of Conversation Piece, Precious Jewel, your Number One Source for Indy's Hood Happenings, drops by the studio to talk about her journey: from soap-making during quarantine to sculpting said soap to becoming a multidimensional artist and content creator who highlights the vibrant culture of Indianapolis. She shares how overcoming anxiety and fear-based perceptions of the city helped her discover a supportive community, fall in love with Indianapolis, and embrace her full identity as Precious Jewel.Connect with Precious Jewel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themostpreciousjewel/Connect with Precious Jewel's art on IG, too: https://www.instagram.com/preciousjewelart/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Jared Thompson, Tiara (her girlfriend!), her parents (Keisha and Randy!)Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

Recent executive orders from the Trump administration have effectively halted refugee resettlement and severely impacted humanitarian immigration programs, forcing organizations like Exodus Refugee in Indianapolis to adapt their operations and temporarily close their doors for safety of the people they serve. On this Emergency Episode of Conversation Piece, Cole Varga, Executive Director of Exodus Refugee Immigration, comes by the studio to discuss how these policy changes are affecting local immigrant communities. We also talk about the work Exodus has done for the past four decades to provide legal assistance, employment services, and other support while advocating against anti-immigrant legislation at both state and federal levels, the significant economic and cultural contributions immigrants make to Indianapolis and America as a whole, and how those with the privilege of citizenship can help.Learn more about Exodus Refugee Immigration: https://www.exodusrefugee.org/Connect with Exodus on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExodusRefugee/Contact your state legislators: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ioPv1bMjpMaFpaMnmyHsJWfDeNjbzvF2Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of Conversation Piece, multifaceted community advocate, graphic artist, hip-hop producer, and roller skater Wildstyle Paschall stops by the studio to talk about a whole bunch of stuff -- from the housing crisis in Indianapolis and the evolution of the local hip-hop scene to the importance of communal joy, particularly through roller skating. Wildstyle shares his insights on systemic issues related to the city's housing issues, the need for accountability in local government, and how creativity and community intersect in his work.Connect with Wildstyle on social media:Threads / Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildstyledaproducer/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mrwildstyle.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mr.Wildstyle/Check out Wildstyle's housing crisis coverage in New America: http://newamerica.org/our-people/wildstyle-paschall/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this week's episode, Brother Jamal Nelson, a neighborhood revolutionary and creator of the first-ever combined Black culture and Black history board game and trivia app, stops by the studio to share his journey from military service to community leadership.Brother Jamaal talks his transformative experiences with Black liberation literature and his commitment to creating educational opportunities for youth in Indianapolis. Through his various initiatives and collaborations, Brother Jamaal demonstrates how building genuine relationships and showing up for community can create lasting positive change.Learn more about Brother Jamaal: https://www.brotherjamaalnelson.com/Connect with Brother Jamaal on IG: https://www.instagram.com/maal317/Shout out to Kenny Mason, whose art is featured in this episode! Kenny is a 2-dimensional mixed media artist inspired by graffiti, portraiture, and vibrant color. Using both dry and wet mediums, he creates expressive portraits that reflect the street-style aesthetic of contemporary art today.  About the art"Kelly" (the smaller one) is a portrait of Jim Kelly. A 70s martial artist and actor. Famously known for his role as ‘William’ in the film Enter the Dragon. A Bruce Lee film. Jim Kelly was a professional fighter and influential actor in the blaxploitation film era. I just wanted to reintroduce him."sit n wait" (the cardboard piece) is a piece on patience. I wanted to flex my best stoic pose as well. This piece was made with many different mediums so making it requires patience. Connect + contact Kenny on IG: https://www.instagram.com/kennymason/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: https://fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Ujamma Bookstore, Flanner House, Anthony Murdock ii (ep 80), Wildstyle (ep 114), Olivia West (ep 71), Cozy VisualsSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Jean Lee, founder of the Academy of Chaos and director of the Midwest Homeschool Expo, stops by the studio to talk about her journey into homeschooling during COVID and her work creating community-based educational resources. Jean discusses how she developed hands-on engineering, geography, and economics classes at the Westfield library, while also organizing a comprehensive homeschool community calendar for the Indianapolis metro area. She also talks about the success of the Midwest Homeschool Expo, which attracted nearly 600 attendees in its first year.Learn more about the Academy of Chaos + the Midwest Homeschool Expo: https://www.theacademyofchaos.com/The Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024.Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Ron Williams stops by the studio to talk about his brand Nate Redd Clothing, to talk about his journey from drawing clothes he couldn't afford as a child to building his Indianapolis-based fashion brand over the past 11 years. Ron shares how his mother's influence shaped his brand - from teaching him to draw to inspiring the name "Nate" (from Nathaniel, her favorite part of his name) and the color red (her favorite color), as well as his Cardinal logo which stems from childhood memories of his mother using Cardinal sightings to distract him during long walks. We also discuss a pivotal moment that took him from "ready to quit" to a new storefront.Shop Nate Redd: https://www.indydesignweek.com/Follow Nate Redd on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanielreddclothing/The Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024.Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this episode of The Open Door, Tori Witter stops by the studio to talk about Indy Design Week, a volunteer-run nonprofit that celebrates and elevates design across all disciplines in Indianapolis. Tori discusses how the organization brings together different design communities through their annual week-long festival in April, featuring local speakers, partnerships with design organizations, and events hosted at various locations throughout the city. She also shares details about their upcoming 2025 festival themed around "Hues," which explores both color in design and metaphorical interpretations of diversity and inclusion in the design community.Learn more about Indy Design Week: https://www.indydesignweek.com/Follow Indy Design Week on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indydesignweek/The Open Door is a series where once a month we literally open the studio door and invite folks from the community to sit down with us and talk about whatever is on their hearts. To learn more go to https://bit.ly/opendoor2024. Shout out to Life in Indy for sponsoring this initiative! Life in Indy is your comprehensive guide to the Indianapolis region. This site gives you a full virtual tour experience, so you can explore our community and discover where in Indy is the best place for your new home. Learn more at https://www.lifeinindy.com/Support the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this week's episode, Antonio Maxie (formerly Yung Tone) discusses his journey from north side battle rapper to establishing himself as an Indianapolis music and business icon, or as Drayco put it, "a real Naptown celebrity." Maxie shares insights about the impact of early mentors and venues like The Ugly Monkey on his development as an artist, his commitment to Indianapolis, and his role in building infrastructure for local artists. We also talk his latest album, "Maxie for Mayor" and what the hell we mean when we say Nap or Nothing. Connect with Maxie: https://www.instagram.com/maxiefromnaptown/Stream "Maxie for Mayor" on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ca/album/maxie-for-mayor/1782106469Stream "Maxie for Mayor" on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/56l4ALyaJrwC394EKXDddzShop Nap or Nothing: 872 Virginia Ave (Fountain Square)!!! OR https://www.napornothing.net/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Ms. Vicky AyersSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this week's episode, Drayco McCoy, a prolific Indianapolis-based rapper, producer, and multi-disciplinary artist, joins us to talk about his journey from Fort Wayne to becoming an integral part of the Indianapolis music scene. Drayco discusses his creative process 33 projects in, his recent sobriety journey, and vision for Indianapolis' creative future. We also explore themes of artistic authenticity, community building, and the importance of supporting local artists while maintaining one's unique creative vision.Learn more about and connect with Drayco: https://www.babyguillotine.com/Shout out to , whose art is featured in this episode! Shout out to Juan the Artist, whose art is featured in this episode! Juan is an Indianapolis-based artist who recently hosted his first solo show in December. You can find out more about his work and contact him about business inquiries at https://linktr.ee/juantheartistShout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Sirius BlvckSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this week's episode of Conversation Piece, Congressman André Carson joins us to talk about his journey from growing up in Indianapolis's Dodge City neighborhood to becoming a representative of Indiana's 7th Congressional District in Washington D.C. We talk about his early life as a hip-hop artist and activist, and how these experiences shaped his approach to politics and community service. The conversation explores themes of collaboration over competition in politics, the importance of building bridges between urban and rural communities, and strategies for sustainable political change in Indiana.Learn more about Congressman Carson: https://andrecarson.com/Call the Indy office: 317-226-9400Learn more about his federal work: http://carson.house.gov/Call the D.C. office: 317-283-6516Contact Shout out to Juan the Artist, whose art is featured in this episode! Juan is an Indianapolis-based artist who recently hosted his first solo show in December. You can find out more about his work and contact him about business inquiries at https://linktr.ee/juantheartistShout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Julia Carson (his grandmother) Support the showLeave a review: https://bit.ly/48DgMfTCheck out the website: https://conversationpiecepod.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/conversationpiecepod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@conversationpiecepodConnect with PatrickInstagram: https://instagram.com/patrickintheworldLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/patrickintheworld/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@patrickintheworldProduced and hosted by Patrick ArmstrongEngineered and mastered by Popular RaptureFilmed and edited by Mike Lee ProductionsMusic by: original_soundtrack

On this week’s episode of Conversation Piece, Senator Andrea Hunley kicks off 2025 by sharing her path from elementary school principal to state legislator, rooted in a childhood where books became her sanctuary after personal tragedy. As one of only two Black women in the Indiana Senate, she discusses bridging divides through authentic connection and proximity to different communities. Her perspective as both educator and legislator illuminates the challenges and opportunities in creating systemic change in Indiana politics.Learn more about Senator Hunley: https://andreahunley.com/Follow Senator Hunley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AndreaHunley_IN/Sign up for The Open Door Sessions: https://bit.ly/opendoor2024Shout out to B.Steele aka ill.creations, whose art is featured in this episode! Brandon is a digital artist with a deep appreciation for music. His artwork revolves around music artists that he enjoys and inspire him in some way. The two pieces featured are his creative representation of two of his favorite albums: The Sun's Tirade by Isaiah Rashad (behind Patrick) and Madvillainy by MF DOOM & Madlib (behind Andrea). Both albums help him tap into his creative zone and maneuver through the hard times of life. Inquire about purchasing either piece (or both! or more!) directly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ill.creations/Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Ryan HunleySupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: Mandog

On this special BONUS episode, it's the holidays! Patrick, John, and Mike take a minute to talk about the past year of the show and what it's been like working together. We also reveal YOUR top three episodes of 2024, as voted on by YOU, the audience! Thanks to everyone who has been a part of the show in any way this year! You make it worth doing! See y'all in 2025!Support the showLeave a review: https://bit.ly/48DgMfTCheck out the website: https://conversationpiecepod.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/conversationpiecepod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@conversationpiecepodConnect with PatrickInstagram: https://instagram.com/patrickintheworldLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/patrickintheworld/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@patrickintheworldProduced and hosted by Patrick ArmstrongEngineered and mastered by Popular RaptureFilmed and edited by Mike Lee ProductionsMusic by: original_soundtrack

On this week's episode of Conversation Piece, Korie Griggs, a multi-hyphenate creator and healer, joins the show to talk about using creativity as a pathway to healing from grief and loss. Korie discusses how her early experiences with journaling and creative expression evolved into various forms of artistic practice, including metalwork, poetry, and community care. We also get into collective healing, the importance of collaboration over competition, and how personal grief can transform into tools for helping others.Learn more about Happy First Sip: https//happyfirstsip.comConnect with Korie: on Instagram: https://instagram.com/korieismynameShout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Foxd'legnd, VinceSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: original_soundtrack

On this week's episode of Conversation Piece, multi-faceted artist and all-around awesome human being Kyndl joins the show to talk about her evolution from aspiring rapper to established hip hop artist (and beyond). Kyndl shares insights about her journey through faith, music, and community-building, including her time in Atlanta and return to the Indianapolis hip-hop scene. She also explores themes of authenticity, artistic growth, and the importance of showing up for your local creative community.This episode was recorded the day after the election, and I (Patrick) share a quick message at the top. Be safe, y'all. And you are not alone.Learn more about Kyndl and check out the Keys & Seeds Podcast: https://keysxseeds.com/Support Kyndl's music on Bandcamp: https://kyndlmusic.bandcamp.com/track/affirmationsFollow Kyndl on Instagram: https://instagram.com/rekyndl/Shout out to Mandog, whose art is featured in this episode! Nick Smith, better known as Mandog, is a producer, visual artist, and DJ in Indianapolis. His most recent project, Zoom Baby, is a collaboration between longtime creative partners Double A and Yop. Check out Mandog’s work at https://linktr.ee/MandoghandpawShout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: fëi ford, Drayco McCoy, Yop, the people pushing the culture forward in IndianapolisSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: original_soundtrack

On this week's episode of Conversation Piece, Shane Young bka Art By Fitz comes through to talk about his journey from basketball player to renowned Indianapolis artist and how his lived experiences and emotions inform his community-centered artwork. Fitz shares insights about the evolution of Indianapolis' art scene and the importance of building genuine offline communities. He also emphasizes the need for artists to understand their purpose, create platforms for themselves, and lead positive change in their communities.Learn more about Fitz: https://www.artbyfitz.org/Connect with Fitz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbyfitzShout out to Dai, whose art is featured in this episode! Dai (pronounced like 'Day') is a local abstract artist here in Indianapolis. Their pieces "All These Feelings" & "I Trusted You" are from their series "A Story Like Mine." Both pieces are for sale and available for purchase via their website: https://daigallerie.square.site Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: the City of Indianapolis, including but not limited to: Maxie, Amaya Mims, by Michaelangelo, and GangGangSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: original_soundtrack

On this week's episode, the most legendary himself, FOXD'LEGND joins the show to talk about his journey from basketball player to musician, and how he intentionally shifted from making music from a dark place to creating feel-good songs on his latest album "33". Fox shares insights about performing with a live band, the untapped potential of Indianapolis hip-hop, and the importance of creating authentically without diluting your vision. We also tackle themes of vulnerability, artistic growth, and the need for more opportunities to showcase Indianapolis talent on a national scale.Connect with Fox + Stream "33": https://linktr.ee/foxdlegnd0Shout out to Frida's Flowers for sponsoring the show! Elevate your next event (or your living room) with some of Madeline's incredible work: fridasflowersindy.com/This week’s Give Em Their Flowers shout out: Maxie, Jet Santiago, TGIFree, Oreo Jones, Jay BrookinzSupport the showSubscribe to the newsletter.Leave a review.Check out our website.Connect with us on Instagram.Connect with PatrickInstagramLinkedInTikTokProduced and hosted by: Patrick ArmstrongFilmed and edited by: Mike Lee ProductionsEngineered and mixed by: Popular RaptureMusic by: original_soundtrack