Pop of Culture

S03 E15 - We Find Joy

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we sit down for a conversation with educator, writer, and editor Jill Christman. Jill's most recent memoir "The Heart Folds Early" took her almost 20 years to write—emerging after multiple different iterations, pushback from publishing houses, and being shelved by the writer herself. Jill tells us why she ignored the advice she gives her writing students, and why now was the right time to finish the book.

Also: we'll speak with Alex Chadsey, bandleader of jazz trio Duende Libre, who will bring their international influences to Pruis Hall on April 23. He explains how the band came to be and what audience members should look forward to. And we once again extend our Arts Calendar to discuss "Art for the People," a weekend-long celebration of public art in Muncie!

S03 E14 - We Do Duos

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we talk to two sets of artists that have teamed up! Jenni and John Marsh just finished directing "The West Wind" at Muncie Civic Theatre. It's the third play they've written together, and they'll take us into their collaborative creative process. And: Ruthie Berkey and Randy Eyestone are both musicians in their own right, but they've teamed up for performances across East Central Indiana—including the Pop studios.

Also in this show, we get driven straight to summer with Candace Angelica Walsh's Beautiful Thing "Playing Hooky," and we'll talk with respected glass artist Brent Cole!

S03 E13 - We Ready Our Tastebuds

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we get a taste of culinary offerings in ECI: Prabhu Krishnan welcomes us into Bayleaf Indian restaurant in Muncie; Jeff Clark and chef Jason Reynolds from the video series "A Taste for Whiskey" banter ahead of their educational appearance at Public Media Pours; and Cheryl Crowder (Muncie Downtown Development) and Lindsay Montgomery (Aerial Annex) preview a different beverage-themed event.

We'll also take a detour Up North to hear about "Trout Lilies" with writer Ginny MacDonald.

S03 E12 - We're on the Floor

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0000

This week... we're still recovering from celebrating our 100th episode! So we're listening back to some of favorite trips in past seasons: we find local artists on the floor of the 2025 Indiana Artisan Marketplace, we look to the skies with members of the Academy of Model Aeronautics, and The Ball State Studio Band brings us into their rehearsal. We'll also have a brand new arts calendar!

S03 E11 - We're Live!

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:53:00 -0000

This week, we're celebrating our 100th episode by doing the show live! We'll be joined by NPR's Stephen Thompson for a national perspective on pop culture right now. We'll chat with filmmaker and local history expert Chris Flook about the history of arts and culture in East Central Indiana. We'll also check in with some of our favorite "WAYWO" guests, do our Arts Calendar live, and laugh at some of the audio that didn't make it into our previous 99 episodes. Join us!

Pop of Culture - Live! Tomorrow

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:00:00 -0000

The Pop of Culture podcast is going to be a little late this week... because we're doing the show live to celebrate our 100th episode!

Join us Friday, March 20th at 12:00 p.m. on IPR's airwaves, via the Ball State Public Media App, or on indianapublicradio.org.

If you can't listen live, we'll have the show up as soon as possible—and we still like you just as much!

S03 E10 - We Get All C's

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0000

We first heard from Indiana's Poet Laureate Curtis L. Crisler after he had been selected for the role in 2024. This week, he joins us in-studio to share how he's moving now that he's been selected for a second term. We'll learn about the "Chitlin Circuit," how Motown influences his work, and the new poetry form he's pioneering.

Also in this show: Ball State University's Department of Theatre and Dance is bringing the classic musical "Cats" to Emens Auditorium for one weekend only March 20 - 22; we cat-ch up with Avery Nienhuis (Rum Tum Tugger) and Vivian VerHulst (Grizabella) to learn about the show! We'll also discover our latest Story Behind the Song with Annette Miller.

S03 E09 - We Survive the Wintering

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we meet writer and poet Mark B. Hamilton. He has a new book of poems inspired by Captain William Clark's (of Lewis & Clark) journal entries as they voyaged west. He also took the 8,000-mile journey himself, so we have to ask him about that incredible experience.

We also immerse ourselves in the the David Owsley Museum of Art's visiting exhibition of "Nora Krug: Belonging," which details the author and illustrator's work on their memoir grappling with their German heritage, and their illustrations for Timothy Snyder's "On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century." Nora Krug will give a talk on Ball State's campus Wednesday, March 11. We'll bring in film and television awards expert (and professor) Monica Sandler for a preview of the Academy Awards. And finally, we'll sit down with Stephanie Michaels (Cornerstone Center for the Arts) and Karen Fisher (Muncie Artists Guild) to learn about two exhibitions for young artists.

S03 E08 - We Have "Balls Balls Balls"

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0000

This week, award-winning playwright Alice Tuan steps into our studios to have a Conversation Between the Coasts. She was on Ball State's campus after being commissioned to write a play and workshop that play with students; she tells us about that experience, why sitting in discomfort is important, and creating art in the age of constant feedback.

Also on the show: Melody A. Lynch is the COO of a not-for-profit utility co-op—a job that brings a lot of stress. She picked up painting during the COVID-19 pandemic and shares how it's a source of calm away from her day job. And speaking of painters, we've been doing Paint Month for "What Are You Working On?" in February, and today is our last exhibit!

S03 E07 - We Put Ourselves on the Map

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0000

This week, Sara McKinley (Carnegie Library Manager and Archivist) and Melissa Gentry (Supervisor of the Map Collection at Ball State University Libraries) give us a sneak peek of their panel event "Women of Whitely: At the Heart of Muncie’s Black History" happening Thursday, February 26 at the historic Shaffer Chapel Museum in Muncie. They'll use archival material and "story maps" to tell the stories of significant women in Muncie's history!

We'll also take a journey... right back to East Central Indiana! Members of The Barricade Boys join us from Florida and the U.K. before their "Broadway party" bursts into Emens Auditorium. And we'll visit florist Sharon Grubbs at Foister's Flowers & Gifts to learn how they prep for major holidays (hint: Valentine's Day).

S03 E06 - We Take a Dive Into the Archives

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0000

The Pop Team is off this week, so enjoy some relevant favorites:

- Indiana Poet Laureate Curtis L. Crisler

- Fort Wayne band SUN.DYLE

- "Beautiful Things" writer Robert Earle

- Fine artist Anne Maddox

...and we'll pop up with a new episode next week!

S03 E05 - We Build a Bakery

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0000

This week on Pop of Culture, we meet Heather Taylor and Casey Morgan of Cocoa & Cream Collective—a new bakery opening in Yorktown... soon! They take us through the process of opening a new small business and why their team is truly a collective.

We'll also catch up with musician Nick Kendall of Time for Three, a genre-bending trio with a new album based on the works of Emily Dickinson. The tile game Mahjong is having a moment, so we asked local expert Raquel Santoni to give us the basics. And Maya Doss kicks off our first-ever themed month of "WAYWO!"

S03 E04 - We Reflect on the Banks of the Tallahatchie

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we're immersed in the visiting exhibition "Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley: Let the World See." Minnetrista Director of Curation & Exhibition Sebastián Encina explains how their team chooses exhibitions, and why this one was so important to bring to East Central Indiana.

Also in this show: we chat with 2026 NPR Tiny Desk Contest judges Anamaria Sayre and Robin Hilton, "Arts Alive" artist Jeffrey Gibson talks about the changing art world, and we interview Samantha Rowe—a balloon artist!

S03 E03 - We Wreck Your Heart

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we learn about two singer-songwriters—one real, one fictional. Author Lori Rader-Day returns to the show with her new murder mystery "Wreck Your Heart," set in the country music scene of Chicago (yes, really). Later, we hear a performance from multi-genre musician Katie Jo Robinson, recorded live for Pop of Culture.

Also in this episode: A Beautiful Thing set "In the Delivery Room," and sculptor Chet Geiselman shares what he's working on!

S03 E02 - We Hit a Pothole

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0000

This week we're rocking with local band Pothole, who identify their sound as "765 PUNK." Bandmates Carter Minton and Lawson Sanchez take us through the process of their soon-to-be-released "sister" EPs. Also in this episode: artist Tashema Davis takes us into a new exhibition centering women of color in the community at Kennedy Art Center, and we'll get a taste of "Destination: Munchie" from Destination: Muncie.

S03 E01 - We Get Our Glass in Gear

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0000

Welcome to Season 3! Lots to get to...

We'll start with two different takes on the medium of glass: documentarian Chris Flook tells us what surprised him during his new documentary about collecting Ball jars ("The Hobby"); artist Jessica Calderwood takes us through the process for her new metal and glass series honoring textile patterns from diverse communities across East Central Indiana ("Threads of Home).

Also in this episode: a Beautiful Thing from Diane Gottlieb ("Mondegreen") and Maya Doss asks Olivia Willard, "What Are You Working On?"

S02 E44 - We Look Back at the Best of 2025

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0000

The Pop of Culture team is readying Season 3!

As we celebrate the new year, we picked some of our favorite segments from last season, like our visit to the Ball State Studio Band, our delightful chat with comedian and cartoonist Dan Wright, the times we've ended up recording in the dark (which has somehow happened twice), and many more!

S02 E43 - We Predict a Vacation

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Surprise! It's our last episode of the year, so we're gifting it to you a little early!

This week, we're speaking with Meg Crane, the inventor of the home pregnancy test. Playwright (and Pop of Culture cohost) Jennifer Blackmer wrote a play about her story that's been produced across the nation—and now it's headed Off-Broadway. Also in this episode, NPR's Andrew Limbong joins us to break down the annual "Books We Love" list for 2025, and Maya Doss brings us a "WAYWO" with contemporary artist Audrey Barcio.

S02 E42 - We Might Need Subtitles

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we sit down with the multi-multi-talented Anwar Frazier. He recently won the 2025 Muncie Mayor's Arts Awards People's Choice, and he'll tell us how he's made a living drawing, painting, tattooing, candle-making, designing custom clothes... the list goes on. Then, we'll visit the Ball State Opera Theatre program as they prepare to present "The Elixir of Love" November 22 - 23. We talk to cast and crew about why opera is accessible—even in Italian! There's more: musician India Potter and baker Alexis Cooper of "Coops Creations" round out this rather full episode.

S02 E41 - We're Visionaries

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we have an extended conversation with Kyren Monteiro. Kyren is an audio engineer and hip-hop artist with an audio production company in Marion. Before the release of his new album "Visionary," he joins us to talk about his creative process, the (accidentally) illicit record label he started at 16, and why he chooses to stay in East Central Indiana. We'll also hear "Reason Enough," our Beautiful Thing for National Adoption Month. And Maya Doss brings us her latest "WAYWO" with Laith Hicks!

S02 E40 - We Think People Make Place

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we speak to artists with work that reflect their communities: Henrik Söderström is a professor at Indiana Wesleyan University who has an exhibit at the Kennedy Art Center in Marion that required "a game of telephone" across the community. Aaron McDermott is an artist and the Vice President of the Pendleton Artists Society; he tell us about his new mural in downtown Pendleton and why having a group for local artists is so important. Also in this episode: how funding cuts continue to affect arts organizations across Indiana, and the return of Season 1 "WAYWO" guest Leonski Crosby!

S02 E39 - We Decorate for Halloween

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

The Pop of Culture team is off this week—and it's Halloween! So, we're listening back to some of our favorite spooky interviews, including: Brian Blair of Pumpkin Pulp (a masks and prop business in Muncie), Tommy Miller and Jason Kindred of the band Void King (purveyors of doom metal), and Riley McDermott (a young farmer). Join us... if you dare!

S02 E38 - We Hear Diversity in Sound

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Where do electronic music artists go in Muncie? IPR's Ransom True takes us to a studio where the mixing decks are open for experimentation and collaboration. Also in this episode: Christina Diaz Gonzalez pivoted from a career as an attorney to write middle grade fiction and graphic novels. We'll speak with her and Ball State professor Jill Christman ahead of the 2025 Writer-in-Residence (events open to the public the week of November 3). And, Julie Lyn Barber sneaks us behind the scenes of the Actors Theatre of Indiana's production of Mel Brooks' "Young Frankenstein." Blücher!

S02 E37 - We Do a Cannonball (Into Leaves)

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we continue our Beautiful Things series with Joseph Gross's "Jumping in Leaves," a short essay about the author and his son in autumn. Then, we'll visit with Robin Phelps-Ward and Kat Stephens-Peace about their artistic careers—and about Hue House, their art studio and community space for local creatives in the Murray building in Muncie. Also packed into this episode: all the details about Ball State PBS's Happy Little Fest, our arts calendar, and local artist (and recent college graduate) Mars Presswood answers our question "What Are You Working On?"

S02 E36 - We Add a Pop of Color, a Pop of Music, and a Pop Host

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week: how two fine arts organizations in East Central Indiana are adapting to attract audiences. We'll speak to Daniel Wiley with the Anderson Symphony Orchestra and Debra Lynn from "Opera Today!" in Fort Wayne. Also in the show: an audio postcard from muralists who gathered in Muncie to paint a bus (yes, really), and the return of "WAYWO" artist Maya Doss as a host!

S02 E35 - We Have Star Power

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Inside this episode: The Indiana Clay Conference is held every two years, and this year it's in Muncie! Organizer (and Ball State professor) Ted Neal talks about what goes into planning the event. We continue our Conversations Between the Coast with Christopher and Justin Swader, professional set designers who work across the country. And, we ask teacher and artist Sun-Young Gullery about "Indy In Inches, her exhibition of 56 Indianapolis small businesses and landmarks.

S02 E34 - We Go Through the Village and Into the Woods

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, during IPR's fall pledge drive, we're listening back to some of our favorite recent pieces, including: a trip into the faux woodlands created for "Good Night Forest" at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens, an extended conversation with longtime local potter John Peterson, and glimpse into the constantly creative world of Stephen M Millben II.

S02 E33 - We're on Location

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we're all over the map! Our first stop is Michael Greer, President and CEO of ArtsFund in Seattle. He'll explain how arts are essential for communities—and democracy—ahead of his presentation on Ball State's campus. Then, we'll talk fall book releases in our semi-regular Book Club with Jay County Public Library librarian Hannah Elliott. And, a new romantic comedy was shot on location in Muncie; writer and director Thomas Peek gives us a sneak peek. Finally, multi-talented artist Cara Jean Wahlers takes us on a journey through her memories for "What Are You Working On?"

S02 E32 - We Pull Out Our Pocket Constitutions

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we sit down with Nicole Etcheson, a Civil War and Reconstruction Era scholar, ahead of her public lecture for Constitution Week—where she'll speak on the Reconstruction Amendments (13th, 14th, and 15th) and their relevance to the present day. Also in this episode: board members from the MuncieArts & Culture Council, we hear a collegiate Beautiful Thing, and "What Are You Working On?" artist River Feeney wouldn't define themselves as an artist—he'll explain!

S02 E31 - We Find New Harmonies

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, Jenni Werner joins us for Conversations Between the Coasts. Jenni is Executive Artistic Director of The New Harmony Project, an arts organization that has been fostering new works for stage and screen in Indiana for nearly 40 years. In May of this year, the organization had a $40,000 grant terminated by the National Endowment for the Arts. We'll talk with Jenni about what the Project does, what a dramaturg is, and how their organization is moving forward.

Also in this episode: Diane Huston—owner of Gallery 112 in Farmland—tells us about their upcoming juried show "Dumpster Visions: the art of discard."

S2E30 - We're Hooked on Butter

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0000

The Pop Team is off this week, so we're listening back to some of our favorite parts from Season 2, including:

Stevie Hahn (AKA "Ray Toffer") on how he creates his viral videos exploring "Beautiful, Luxurious Muncie™."
Tracy Burns is a rug hooker; she fills our studio with her artwork to help explain her craft.
Jarrod Case and Jason Cooper from local band White Lies & The Half Truth share tracks from their new album "The Ghosts We Carry."
Photographer and artist Rebekah Gaillard joined us for "What Are You Working On?" before Butter Art Fair last year ("Butter" 2025 is this weekend, August 28 - 31).

S02 E29 - We Can't Stop the Beat

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week is all about live music: Muncie Civic Theatre is in the middle of its run of "Hairspray," director Terry Whitt Bailey and Muncie Civic Artistic & Executive Director (and cast member) Laura Williamson crash through our doors to tell us about the musical! Local musician Dave Carter talks about the long journey to his new album (PODCAST EXCLUSIVE: Dave performs two original songs live), and singer/songwriter Jennie DeVoe shares what it feels like to be on stage in front of an audience before she takes the stage at the Muncie Three Trails Series!

S02 E28 - We Step Into a Foggy Future

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we're listening back to some of our favorite interviews from Season 2 (so far): longtime Muncie artist and businesswoman Ann Johnson tells us about how she created F.B. Fogg—and what she thinks is the future of the arts business in Muncie; librarian and Pop of Culture book club president Hannah Elliott runs down her top picks for summer reading; and artist Sara Collas tells us what she's working on.

S02 E27 - We're Not Afraid of the Dark

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we take a trip to the forest... indoors! We get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Minnetrista Museum and Gardens' latest exhibit "Good Night Forest." We'll also speak to PBS host Steven Raichlen ahead of a special event in Fort Wayne, hear about an award-winning stop-motion video, and listen to a Beautiful Thing with imaginary animals ("Things Not Always Seen").

S02 E26 - We Tell the Half Truth

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Pop of Culture is back for the second half of Season 2!

This week, we chat with Jarrod Case and Jason Cooper of local band White Lies & The Half Truth. They'll share tracks from their album "The Ghosts We Carry" and explain why now was the right time to form a band. We'll also hear our latest Beautiful Thing from writer Jill Currie ("He Comes Back for the Curtains"), catch up with Pop favorite Aimee Maychack (who 'blew up' their life to pursue a full-time career in the arts), and ask young farmer Riley McDermott what she's working on!

S02 E25 - We're Working On a Summer Vacation

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0000

It's Pop of Culture's 70th episode! To celebrate, we're listening back to some of our favorite answers to our favorite question: "What Are You Working On?"

We first asked Levi Rinker in February 2024... he talks about his work to bring more art into the community of Anderson. We'll also hear from Aimee Maychack (linocuts), Rose & Kate Elliott (sewing very special pillows), and Lynette Whitesell (getting back into art after a pandemic era hiatus). And, we'll ask our hosts the same question. Join us!

This is also our last episode before our regular summer break. We'll be back with new episodes starting Friday, August 1.

S02 E24 - We’re Outdoors?!

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we discuss upcoming outdoor events in ECI... from the climate-controlled safety of the Pop of Culture Studios.

Tracy Manning (Executive and Artistic Director of the Hoosier Shakespeare Festival)—and actors Grace Bogue and Selah Grannis—discuss the Festival's tenth year and what it’s like to perform Shakespeare in the open air.

Shaun Dingwerth (Executive Director of the Richmond Art Museum), and Sylvia Finney with Sarah Kreps (Delaware County Master Gardeners Association) talk about their respective garden tours!

Kirsten Novotny (Theatre & Events Manager at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens) gives us a peek into the world of "Faeries, Sprites, & Lights."

And the answer to “What Are You Working On?” is fireworks!

S02 E23 - We Have Someone to Be

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week: comedian, cartoonist, writer, musician... the list goes on! Dan Wright entertains us with the stories behind his multifaceted career—including how his syndicated cartoon started with rejection from all four major syndicates. Also in this episode: writer H.K. Hummel shares her Beautiful Things essay "It Seemed Like Everything Was Still Before Us."

S02 E22 - We Have the Clay Olympics

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we sit down with local pottery legend John Peterson. In a podcast-exclusive extended conversation, he tells us how he came to Muncie, how he started Bethel Pike Pottery studios, and what's still inspiring him today as he looks back on his career in the arts.

Also in this show: we preview The Harlem Gospel Travelers' Muncie Three Trails Music Series performance with trio member Ifedayo Gatling, we listen back to the Ball State Studio Band in rehearsal before their performance at We Fly Fest (June 7, 2025), and Stephen M Millben II answers our favorite question.

S2E21 - We Aim for the Stars and Land Among the Alligators

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 30 May 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Pop of Culture is off this week, so we're listening back to some of our favorite summer adventures: Charles W. Brown Planetarium Director Dayna Thompson takes us on a tour of the night sky (kind of), writer Lindsey Pharr takes us to an alligator-teeming river in Mississippi, and art quilter Daren Redman takes us through her creative process.

S02 E20 - We Read and Write (Songs)

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 23 May 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we speak with Barrett Smith from Steep Canyon Rangers ahead of their performance at the Muncie Three Trails Music Series. He tells us what it's like as a touring musician, and why the band decided to release a live album. Also in this episode: local musician Jess Jones talks about his songwriting career and performs a set in the IPR studios; and we have the next meeting of our Book Club with librarian Hannah Elliott.

S02 E19 - We're Back in Bloom

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 16 May 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we take you behind the scenes of the David Owsley Museum of Art's annual Art in Bloom event. We'll talk to three of the florists interpreting artwork for this year's event: Sharon Grubbs (Foister's Flowers & Gifts), Marnie Tupling (Wasson Nursery), and Julie Harman Vance (Buck Creek in Bloom). We'll also get the full lineup of this year's Muncie Three Trails Music Series from series founder Rick Zeigler, hear details on the loss of arts funding in Indiana, and ask our favorite question.

S02 E18 - We Go Into the Void

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 09 May 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, a bouquet of artistic options: we talk to Kelly McVey, cofounder and Executive Director of the Indiana Peony Festival—coming up Saturday 5/17; we have an extended conversation with Jason Kindred and Tommy Miller from Void King about their new concept album; and we'll ask retired educator Vernon Bedel, "What Are You Working On?"

S02 E17 - We Make A Stained Glass Dachshund

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 02 May 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week we learn about stained glass (artist and business owner Erica Markley), we hear a new single (returning musician Dana Powell), and we ask multimedia artist Lynette Whitesell about what she’s working on!

S02 E16 - We're in Beautiful Luxurious Muncie

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week we talk to the creator of the viral series "Beautiful Luxurious Muncie™." The delightful Stevie Hahn tells us how his character Ray Toffer came to be, what his creative process is like, and how he feels about his portrayal of Muncie. Also in this episode: Nancy Carlson reflects on a documentary she executive produced 25 years ago, we listen to a "Beautiful Thing," and assemblage artist Sara Collas talks about what she's working on.

S02 E15 - We Decide That It's Springtime

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we spring back into our archives with some of our favorite plant-themed interviews! We visit Cat Dyeak at her greenhouse to learn about the art of Bonsai, PBS creator and host of "Life in Bloom" tell us about his life in the flower trade, and Anne Maddox gives us the details on her incredibly detailed ecosystem paintings.

S02 E14 - We Enter a Contest

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we talk Tiny Desk: Fort Wayne band SUN.DYLE shares the song they entered into the 2025 Tiny Desk Contest, and NPR's Anamaria Sayre gives us details on the new Tiny Desk Radio! We'll also ask furniture artist Connie Beaty to take us through her process, and we'll listen back to our interview with Indy 500 winner's wreath florist Julie Harman Vance.

S02 E13 - We're Here and There

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we sit down with visiting artist Justin Favela, who tells us about why he started covering cars and buildings like piñatas. Also in this show: we take you to the floor of the Indiana Artisan Marketplace to check in with the artists representing East Central Indiana, Thomas Ouellette reports on a new exhibit put together by—and celebrating—women, and we get up-to-date with all the events happening in our listening area!

S02 E12 - We Write by the Seat of Our Pants

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0000

In this encore edition of Pop of Culture, we're listening back to some of our favorite interviews: crime fiction novelist Lori Rader-Day joins us to talk about her process (or lack thereof) and where her ideas come from; Tracy Burns is a rug hooker making detailed works with fiber; and Dana Powell is a Canadian musician now residing Indiana who shares tracks from her debut album.

S02 E11 - We're on the Move

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we talk to the team responsible for creating "Groove," a dance performance at the intersection of West African traditional dance and hip hop. Professors Jenn Meckley and Emmanuel Cudjoe explain how they work with their dancers and what they hope the audience takes away. Then, in our continuing Conversations Between the Coasts, founder and CEO of Discovering Broadway Joel Kirk explains why Indianapolis is the perfect place to birth a Broadway show! And we'll ask young artist Rose Elliott, "What Are You Working On?"

S02 E10 - We’re In Print and In Portraiture

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we step behind the camera with photographer Ronn Brown; he's guest-curated a selection of photographs at the David Owsley Museum of Art. We'll ask about how his career in Hollywood led him back to Muncie, how he approaches a photography session, and some of his favorite photos in the DOMA collection. Also in this episode: the Indianapolis Public Library celebrates African American artists, Ball State's In Print Festival is back for the 20th year, and our friend J.R. Jamison gives us a sneak peek into his latest book.

S02 E09 - We Talk Bookbinding, Banjo, and Beautiful Things

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we learn about bookbinding from Rai Peterson. She expounds on her love of paper and how bronze metals made their way into her covers! Also in this episode: internationally renowned banjo player and producer Alison Brown gives us news on her album with Steve Martin (she'll play Pruis Hall on March 8), woodturner Dennis Whitted explains how the piece of wood he's working on tells him what it's going to be, and we start a new series called "Beautiful Things" in partnership with River Teeth Journal.

S02 E08 - We Show and Share

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, artists at the peak of their craft: the Ball State Studio Band sneaks us into rehearsal as they prep for gigs around East Central Indiana, NPR's Linda Holmes tells us about her latest novel "Back After This," Sally and Lyn Fierce bring their songwriting skills to the "The Songwriter Sessions" at First Thursday in Muncie, and arts educator Carol Burt talks about what she's working on in retirement!

S02 E07 - We Work on Our Timing

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Pop of Culture is off this week, but not before we catch up with our co-host Jen Blackmer. Jen is directing "POTUS" in Strother Theatre at Ball State University, and she gives us insight into the process of meeting a tense political moment with humor. Then, we'll hear our interview with trucker and musician Long Haul, recorded before the release of his new album last year.

S02 E06 - We Cut a Rug

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 17:00:00 -0000

It's another action-packed week! Local musician Jerry Barker joins us to share original music (and talk about building the confidence to perform that music for others). Tracy Burns explains the art of rug hooking (and brings examples). And we meet Carly Acree-King, Executive Director of MadJax Maker Force in Muncie (and learn what's inside their building).

S02 E05 - We Work from a Tiny Desk

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 17:00:00 -0000

It's Pop of Culture's 50th episode! This week, we peek behind the Tiny Desk: NPR producer Bobby Carter gives us last-minute details on the 2025 Tiny Desk Contest. Sculptor and professor Michael Lorsung takes us on a tour of his recent exhibit. We step inside a Muncie greenhouse to learn about the art of bonsai from Cat Dyeak. And we speak to one of the stars from Muncie Civic Theatre's production of "Waitress: The Musical" just before opening night!

S02 E04 - We Come Out of Retirement

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we sit down for an extended conversation with Ann Johnson, owner of former Muncie arts business F.B. Fogg. She talks about what "Fogg" meant to her and the East Central Indiana artist community, and what she hopes to see in that community moving forward. We'll also speak to retired Muncie Public Library Director Akilah Nosakhere, who's starting a new community gathering spot on the east side of the city. She lets us in on some of her plans for the space!

S02 E03 - We Start a Business

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we're listening back to some of our favorite interviews from last season. Silk painter and business owner Carrie Wright talks to us about how she grew her business and lessons she learned along the way. Muralist Holly Sims explains how she goes from concept to color on a wall. And John Morris brings some of his work to our studio to answer the question, "What Are You Working On?"

S02 E02 - We Stop and Smell the Flowers

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we're joined by the delightful J Schwanke, PBS host of "Life in Bloom." He tells us how he was born to be a florist, why everyone should pick up flowers at the grocery store, and why he brought his show to Muncie! We also talk to musician Dana Powell about the effort it took to create her new debut feature-length album "Your Love Is Enough."

S02 E01 - We Go Down the Street to Reach the Stars

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:00:00 -0000

It's a new season of Pop of Culture from IPR! We're starting off by visiting the largest planetarium (by dome height) in the state of Indiana: the Charles W. Brown Planetarium in Muncie! Planetarium Director Dayna Thompson takes us behind the control panel to demonstrate how they put on a show for 20,000 visitors a year. We'll also talk to an avid volunteer about cultural opportunities in East Central Indiana, and we'll ask metalsmith Sandy Gaier "What Are You Working On?"

S01 E45 - We're Not in Kansas Anymore

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 17:00:00 -0000

In this encore edition of Pop of Culture, we'll be listening back to some of our favorite interviews, including: a Conversation Between the Coast with playwright Catherine Trieschmann; Susan Danner, known in Muncie as "The Pie Lady"; and "What Are You Working On?" with student and comedy writer James Brubeck.

S01 E44 - We Try to Relax

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 17:00:00 -0000

In this encore edition of Pop of Culture, we'll be listening back to some of our favorite interviews, including: Native American flute artists, percussionist, and arts educator Larry Gindhart; NPR Arts Desk Reporter and Book of the Day podcast host Andrew Limbong, and fused glass artist Madelyn Heskett.

S01 E43 - We Kill off Season One

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 17:00:00 -0000

It's Pop of Culture's final episode of the year! This week, crime fiction writer Lori Rader-Day joins us for Conversations Between the Coasts. She tells us when she decided to take writing seriously, how she crafts a mystery (and entire books!), and if she thinks the "write everyday" adage is true. We also get a special sneak peek at this year's IPR Radio Drama with Director David Taylor Little and writer Michael Kleeberg. And we ask assemblage artist Ellen Leigh "What Are You Working On?"

S01 E42 - We Can Can

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we prep for the holidays: NPR's Andrew Limbong joins us to chat about the annual "Books We Love" list, Ball State architectural students preview a public projected-light display at Carnegie library, and LaShanta Vaughn stops by from Destination: Muncie to run through the many events happening in East central Indiana within the next few weeks.

S01 E41 - We’re in It for the Long Haul

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week, musician and trucker Long Haul Paul joins us to share music and inspiration from his new album. He'll talk about the crash at the inception of the album, honoring important people in his life through song, and Pizza King. We'll also learn about music therapy in Anderson, and we'll ask fused glass artist Madelyn Heskett... what IS fused glass?

S01 E40 - We Find a Writing Partner

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week in our continuing Conversations Between the Coasts, we speak with Diana Grisanti and Steve Moulds. Both are educators, professional playwrights, and writing partners. They'll talk about why leaving the Midwest never appealed to them, and how their writing partnership works. Also in this episode: Stephanie Michaels, Director of Programs at Cornerstone Center for the Arts in Muncie; and a "WAYWO" with musician Joshua Powell.

S01 E39 - We Keep It Collegiate

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week on Pop of Culture, we have an extended conversation about the new Performing Arts Center (and additional buildings) coming to Muncie. We'll sit down with Ball State University President Geoff Mearns and Ball State Chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance Bill Jenkins! Also in this episode: we ask artist John Morris "What Are You Working On?"

S01 E38 - We Take Note

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we talk with NPR Music's Stephen Thompson. He co-created the famous Tiny Desk Concert series and is a cohost on NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour. Before that, he covered entertainment for The Onion. He'll be joining us for our IPR Launch Event on Saturday, November 2nd! Also in this episode: we listen back to some of our favorite October subjects, including a recently syndicated comic strip creator and new music from the local band Lovesick Moan.

S01 E37 - We Are Big Time

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week we have our noses in books! We talk to award-winning children's book author Hena Khan, who will be visiting Muncie as part of Ball State University's Writer-in-Residence program October 28 - 30—with several events open to the public. We also speak to the director of that program, Ball State professor Jill Christman, who tells us why it's important to bring authors to the community. Also in this episode: ghost stories from author Chris Flook, whose new book "Ghosts of Old Muncie" tells tales based on historical records!

S01 E36 - We Stop a by Swing State

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week we continue our Conversations between the Coasts with a co-founder of the Williamston Theatre in Williamston, Michigan. Tony Caselli tells us about choosing to start a theatre in a small town in a swing state, and the lessons his team has learned in the following 18 seasons. We'll also speak to Maria Egnatz Alexander from Anderson Impact Center about a new movie: "Where Black Excellence Resides in Madison County."

S01 E35 - We Read a Scary Story

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week we meet Miss Indiana Kalyn Melham! She tells us about A Civic Soirée: The Great Gatsby Gala, hosted at Muncie Civic Theatre. We welcome back librarian Hannah Elliott, who has a list of seasonally scary books for our book club. We'll step behind the scenes of a regional art exhibition at The Swope Art Museum in Terre Haute. And we'll ask comedian and writer James Brubeck "What Are You Working On?"

S01 E34 - We Practice Our Lovesick Moans

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week we sit down with members of the band Lovesick Moan as they share some of their new music and talk about the inspiration for their sound. We'll also ask frontwoman Heather Collins about the Maybelle Music Festival on October 5th in Muncie; the festival is a celebration of women in music! Also this week, we speak to local artist Brian Blair about his scary creations in demand all around the world. And, we'll learn about a new youth theatre program at the Anderson Mainstage Theatre.

S01 E33 - We Get M.A.D.

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we get ready for Muncie's ArtsWalk on October 3 by listening to artists and attendees we spoke to in May. We'll hear one of our favorite recent Conversations Between the Coast with Brent Marty and Holly Stults of Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre in Carmel. And we'll get "M.A.D." to learn about Jeanne Ziegler's plan for a local artist meetup!

S01 E32 - We Go Door-to-Door

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week on Pop of Culture, we talk to Craig Franke from the touring cast of "The Book of Mormon." He'll pull back the curtain on performing across the country as the show makes its way to Emens Auditorium. We'll learn all about Fire Up DWNTWN in Muncie from Cheryl Crowder, Events Director for Muncie Downtown Development Partnership. We'll continue our Conversations Between the Coasts with playwright Catherine Trieschmann, who felt like she "landed on the moon" when she moved to Kansas. And, we'll take a look at the environmentalist paintings of Anne Maddox.

S01 E31 - We Read Our Brain on Art

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week on Pop of Culture, we learn about an upcoming discussion from the authors of "Your Brain on Art," a book about art and its impact on our brains, our health, and our community. Director of Ball State University's School of Art Lara Kuykendall gives us the details. We'll also chat with four members of the quintet Sybarite5 about composing and performing classical music in 2024; Sybarite5 is the last concert in this year's Muncie Three Trails Music Series. And we'll listen back to an interview with production potter Sarah Richcreek.

S01 E30 - We Prep for a Powwow

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we bring you multiple voices from the Andersontown Powwow: Michael Pace—a descendent of Chief Anderson—will share context, history, and powwow etiquette guidelines; event organizer Debbie Webb talks about how the powwow came to be and shares some of this year's highlights; and Native American flute artist Douglas Blue Feather joins us for "What Are You Working On?" Also in this week's episode, we learn about a new children's book inspired by the kids at Ross Community Center. We speak with author (and PlySpace artist-in-residence) Shannon McCarthy and Director of Learning Supports at Heart of Indiana United Way Ashley Breedlove.

S01 E29 - We Go to the Movies

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 15:30:00 -0000

This week, we listen back to some of our favorite recent interviews. The Victory International Film Festival is September 12 - 14 in Evansville, IN. We talked to Festival Director Matthew Ulm about what sets them apart. We spoke to "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me" panelist Negin Farsad about using comedy to bridge partisan divides across America. And, we'll hear part of our conversation with Butter Art Fair co-founder Mali Bacon.

S01 E28 - We Solve a Mystery

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week on Pop of Culture, we uncover a mystery! Bianca Sulanke from Ball State University's Office of Community Engagement gives us clues about a game that will take participants around Downtown Muncie. We'll ask Chris Barnes of The Sensational Barnes Brothers about performing with family; you can see the duo on Saturday, August 24 at the Muncie Three Trails Music Series. Deon "Supr Dee" Parson is a visual artist from Anderson, his comic strip "Rosebuds" is being syndicated nationwide in September—we'll ask about the inspiration behind the strip. And we'll speak to artist and creative director Rebekah Gaillard about the work she'll be debuting at Butter Art Fair in Indianapolis over Labor Day weekend.

S01 E27 - We Sneak Into Summer Camp

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week on Pop of Culture, we talk arts in education with two professionals from the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre in Carmel: Director of Music & Education Brent Marty, and Education Programs Director Holly Stults. The fun pair shares insights from their intertwined careers. Also in the show, artist Jack Christeon tells us how he turns "found" objects into art. And we'll catch up with photographer Tom Styrkowicz, who spent last Saturday taking community photographs at Minnetrista Museum and Gardens.

S01 E26 - We Keep Our Clothes On

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we sit down with bluegrass artist and radio host Joe Mullins about his goals when performing live and his passion for bringing new fans to bluegrass. You can see him perform with his Radio Ramblers on Saturday, August 10 as part of the Three Trails Music Series. We also chat with Jason Blevens and Corry Milhollin, organizers of the Summer Shindig coming up at the Landing at Redwing in Muncie. And IPR's Thomas Ouellette talks to Christina Pfeffer, who has an art installation inspired by books and women debuting in Anderson!

S01 E25 - We Talk About Joy

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Pop of Culture is back! This week, we talk to playwright and dramaturg TJ Young. TJ is also an Associate Professor of Dramaturgy at Carnegie Mellon University, and he shares his thoughts on creating joyful work from a city better known for its industrious roots. We also speak to "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me" panelist Negin Farsad about bridging our differences with comedy. And we talk to Toren Scott, owner of Made In Muncie pottery studio, about his latest work.

S01 E24 - We Preview Muncie Three Trails

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we're in summer vacation mode! As we pack our bags, we talk to Rick Ziegler, who oversees the Muncie Three Trails Music Series. He’ll talk about why he started the Series and preview the first concert on July 27! We’ll also listen back to a conversation with Peggy Lewis, Depot Manager of the Central Indiana Human Library. And, of course, we’ll “WAYWO” (What Are You Working On?)!

Pop of Culture returns Friday, August 2.

S01 E23 - We Paint Really, Really Big

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we speak to painter, muralist, and educator Holly Sims about making art as big as a building! She's also traveling west to paint this summer and tells us how nature's color palette changes as you cross the country. We'll talk to recently retired Anderson Symphony Orchestra Music Director Rick Sowers as he looks back at his storied career. And we'll visit one of the oldest printing presses in the United States—Tribune Showprint, right here in ECI!

S01 E22 - We Prepare for Takeoff

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we speak to Steve Haston, Rachelle Haughn, and Kyle Jaracz at the headquarters of the Academy of Model Aeronautics in Muncie. The AMA has an event called "National Fun Fly" that they want everyone to come enjoy! We also continue our Conversations Between the Coast with Timothy Scholl, Artistic Director of Angels Theatre Company in Lincoln, Nebraska. He explains why he thinks it's important to develop new plays—and for audiences to go see those plays. And local actor and artist Sean Orlosky delights us with some of his favorite characters.

S01 E21 - We Hug a Tiger

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0000

On the show this week: we get all the details about Be My Neighbor Day, an event where children learn about the importance of being a good neighbor—and can meet Daniel Tiger from "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood" on PBS KIDS. We'll also learn what a production potter is from artist Sarah Richcreek. And we'll listen back to our interview with Dr. Robert G. LaFrance from the David Owsley Museum of Art as the museum extends it's exhibition of "Beyond the Medici."

S01 E20 - We've Been Framed!

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we speak to Muncie Juneteenth co-chair Dorica Young-Watson about the upcoming celebration! We also sit down with Gordy Fine Art & Framing co-owner Barbara Schafer to ask why it's important to have a local framing company. And, we'll listen back to an interview with Indiana's Poet Laureate Curtis Crisler.

S01 E19 - We Check Out the Human Library

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we sit down with the Peggy Lewis, Depot Manager for the Human Library of Central Indiana. In the Human Library, books are people that have volunteered to tell their stories and have an open dialogue with the reader that checks them out. We'll also chat with Nancy Carlson about the importance of finding a volunteering opportunity that suits you! And, we'll ask young artist Maya Doss: What Are You Working On?

S01 E18 - We Strive to be Hollow Bones

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 31 May 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, Native American flute artist and arts educator Larry Gindhart joins us in-studio to perform live and discuss the inspiration behind his music. We'll also speak with Moth Danner, the director of YART, a community art sale that happens during the Muncie ArtsWalk. And, we'll talk football. (No, seriously.)

S01 E17 - We Make Pies, Wreaths, and a Theme Song

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 24 May 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we step into Buck Creek in Bloom flower shop in Yorktown to talk to Julie Harmon Vance, who has made the Indianapolis 500 winner's wreath every year since 1992. We also visit Susan Danner, known professionally as "The Pie Lady," to see the pie-making magic happen. And Mikey Mason returns to our studios with a "Pop of Culture" theme song!

S01 E16 - We Work on Our Line Work

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 17 May 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, the entire ECI community is invited to Art in Bloom at the David Owsley Museum of Art. We talk to Rachel Buckmaster, Associate Director at the Museum, about how staff prepare for the flower-filled event. We also sit down with artist Jeff Brackett to ask how he learned to "play" more when creating. And, we'll listen back to one of our favorite interviews with comedian and musician Mikey Mason.

S01 E15 - We Talk About Butter

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 10 May 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week on Pop of Culture, a conversation with Malina Simone Bacon—co-founder and Executive Director of GANGGANG, a creative agency based in Indianapolis. We talk to her about building equity for creatives, and why "starving artists" shouldn't exist.

S01 E14 - We Spin a Yarn

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 03 May 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we talk about attending—and submitting work for—the Victory International Film Festival in Evansville, Indiana with Festival Director Matthew Ulm. We also sit down for a conversation about the realities of being a professional artist with Carrie Wright.

S01 E13 - We Create Art and Opportunities

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:01:29 -0000

This week, we have an extended conversation with artist and arts curator Braydee Euliss. Braydee runs a gallery (with none of her own work) out of the front of her home. For the past several years, she's been the lead curator for the Butter Art Fair in Indianapolis, and she shares how the radical concept is supporting visual artists throughout the state. We also look at a few events for Arbor Day!

S01 E12 - We Peek Behind the Curtain

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 16:00:00 -0000

We've got a special look at two theatre shows you can see this weekend! First, we talk to Teresa Reynolds, who's bringing "Platanos y Collard Greens" to Muncie, Anderson, and Indianapolis. We also sit down for a conversation with the guest star of Muncie Civic Theatre's "Fiddler on the Roof," Adam B. Shapiro. He tells us what it was like to join rehearsals three months in.

S01 E11 - We Work Remotely

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we have a conversation with Tyler Warner, a video editor working on The Drew Barrymore Show in New York from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. What does it mean to be part of a creative team, when that team is over 400 miles away? We'll ask. We also learn about a program bringing ballet to all generations. Lisa Love at Muncie Ballet tells us her philosophy. Oh—and we meet a professional clown!

S01 E10 - We Put On Our Eclipse Glasses

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we're in the path of totality! We chat with Trenton Bush at Destination Muncie about the festivities planned for the total solar eclipse visible in Muncie on April 8. We'll also ask Erica Oliver, at the Dr. Joe and Alice Rinard Orchid Greenhouse about what happens to animals during the eclipse. And we'll get a behind-the-scenes peek at a special eclipse concert broadcast in partnership with Ball State Public Media.

If that's not enough: it's Pop of Culture's 10th episode! Our cohosts Jennifer Blackmer, Dr. Kara DuQuette, and Michelle Kinsey pile into the studio to celebrate the arts.

S01 Ep 09 - We Bring Our Guitars

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0000

We’re being serenaded in-studio this week! First, musician and comedian Mikey Mason tells us how he finds inspiration to make a song every week—and he plays some of them for us live. Then, we speak to Michael Brockley, Jeff Pearson and Long Haul Paul, part of a group bringing “Poets and Songwriters: An American Song” to Farmland, Indiana. And our own Jen Blackmer shares her personal experience with a total solar eclipse, and how it inspired what she’s working on now.

S01 E08 - We Live Life on the Edge

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, we head to extreme environments underwater and in space... from the safety of Muncie, Indiana. We learn about Minnetrista's "Life on the Edge" exhibit from Hannah Bender, the experience designer for the Museum. We'll also talk to Leon Crosby, who's preparing for the solar eclipse by making art.

S01 E07 - We Plant Flowers

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0000

This week, Jen sits down with Chris Saunders—founding artistic director at American Lives Theatre (ALT) in Indianapolis—and Andrew Kramer—literary director at ALT—to discuss why they came to Indiana to start a theatre company. We'll also talk to James Edwards—assistant director of Horticulture at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens—to learn about his job and an upcoming seed giveaway.

S01 E06 - We Go To A Blues Jam

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week on Pop of Culture, we grab a seat at the weekly Governor Davis Memorial Blues Jam at the Hitching Post! There we learn from band members Tom Lindmar and Marty Weaver how the jam started and how musicians can get involved. We also try out virtual reality in Fort Wayne, plus get an exclusive preview into how Muncie is working to grow the arts and culture scene from Marcy Minton of The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County.

S01 E05 - We Check Out A Book

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we ask Hannah Elliott at Jay County Public Library what's flying off the shelves. We also learn one way Muncie is honoring volunteers and we meet Indiana's new Poet Laureate.

Oh! And we say “hello” to our co-host, Michelle Kinsey!

S01 E04 - Stepping Into History

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week we step into the historic Muncie Civic Theatre to learn why "community" theatre matters from Executive and Artistic Director Laura Williamson. We also talk to a local artist who fires his own clay kiln—and develops photographs in his bathroom! We'll also listen back to a conversation we had with Elyzabeth Gregory Wilder, who moved her career from New York City to find inspiration on a mountain.

S01 E03 - There's Nothing to Do in Muncie

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week, Dr. Kara DuQuette speaks to two curators in Muncie: Dr. Robert G. LaFrance, Director and Curator of the David T. Owsley Museum of Art (DOMA); and Brian Statz, President and CEO of Minnetrista Museum & Gardens. We also learn from a Muncie artist breathing new life into clients' family heirlooms.

S01 E02 - Finding New Audiences

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 17:00:00 -0000

This week, we talk to Jacob Janssen, the Steve & Jackie Kane Artistic Director at Third Avenue Playworks in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin about his efforts to cultivate new local audiences. We’ll also meet Katie Morgan Perez, Executive Director of Orchestra Indiana, and find out how a Muncie creative is making textiles from her garden!

Pop of Culture is hosted by Jennifer Blackmer, Kara DuQuette and Michelle Kinsey.

S01 E01 - From the Mountaintop

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Pop of Culture is a new program from Indiana Public Radio bringing you closer to arts and culture in East Central Indiana, the Midwest, and the people who make it happen. In this episode, we meet Elyzabeth Gregory Wilder, a playwright who moved from New York City to a mountaintop; we also sit down with Mike Martin inside The Common Market in Muncie.

Hosted by Jennifer Blackmer, Kara DuQuette and Michelle Kinsey, Pop of Culture airs Fridays and Saturdays at 12 p.m. ET, and is available wherever you find your podcasts.

Pop of Culture Promo

arapp@bsu.edu (Indiana Public Radio) — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 15:52:29 -0000

Pop of Culture explores the vibrant cultural tapestry of East Central Indiana. Join hosts Jennifer Blackmer, Michelle Kinsey, and Dr. Kara Duquette as they delve into regional arts, showcase local events, and engage in insightful conversations with artists and curators. From small business spotlights to in-depth art analyses, Pop of Culture aims to amplify the voices of Indiana's artistic community, enriching your life with the diverse spirit of our state.