How do we truly prepare students for a future that is constantly evolving? In this episode of The Genius Hour: Voices of Indianapolis, our host (and PPHS AV teacher) Jeff Edge sits down with Ryan Murray, Project Specialist at the Central Indiana Educational Service Center (CIESC), to discuss a groundbreaking initiative: the TIE-IN program (Teacher Industry Experiences in Indiana).

A partnership between CIESC and the Department of Education, TIE-IN was designed to bridge the gap between education and industry. Ryan, a former STEM teacher who transitioned out of the classroom to drive larger-scale impact, shares how he curated immersive, all-day shadowing experiences for educators across the state. We discuss our 2025 journey through the program: visits to WTHR, Visit Indy, Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indiana Fever), and MISO. Ryan's work, as well as the incredible logistical work done by Jessica Martin, made 40+ statewide events possible through the TIE-IN program.

The conversation dives deep into the shifting landscape of Indiana’s talent pool. Ryan highlights how forward-thinking organizations like Endress+Hauser, Gaylor Electric, and MISO are no longer waiting for post-graduation; they are investing in skill-building and talent-identifying from a young age.

We also tackle the "Soft Skills Gap." While schools are traditionally built to assess technical proficiency, industries are sending a clear message: We can teach the technical skills, but we need you to teach the soft skills. From the future of AI in broadcasting to the necessity of intentional collaboration, this episode is a must-listen for educators, industry leaders, and students alike.

Student Credits:

1. Audio Engineer: Nat
2. Producer: Annie

How do you build a career when the world shuts down? We kick off Season 3 of The Genius Hour: Voices of Indianapolis with filmmaker and entrepreneur Deonna Weatherly.

After graduating into the uncertainty of the 2020 pandemic, Deonna didn't wait for a job offer; she created her own. In this episode, our first-year Principles of Broadcasting students sit down with the founder of The Weatherhouse Company and the Indiana Youth Film Festival to discuss the power of self-reliance.

Deonna shares how childhood storytelling with Barbie dolls evolved into a mission to keep creative talent right here in Indiana. We also dive into her vital work with the Weatherhouse Institute, where she is actively changing the face of the film industry by creating space and mentorship for young creatives.

Editors: Jordan Neri Toledo and Journei Wilbourn

In our latest episode of Voices of Indianapolis, we venture to the vibrant Re:Public, the museum pop-up for the 10 East Indy Arts Hub, where we sat down with its dynamic curator, Primrose Paul. Fresh out of college herself, Prim offers a refreshing and relatable perspective as she guides us through her vital work in the Indianapolis arts scene.

Prim's passion lies in ensuring artists have space to thrive, running an artist residency program, and hosting engaging community art and open mic nights. A talented painter trained at the University of Indianapolis, Prim shares the inspirations behind her own art, her journey of self-discovery through diverse mediums from oil painting to welding, and how she represents life's delicate balance through her work.

Listeners will hear how the social issues of 2020 profoundly shaped her path as both an artist and a curator, driving her commitment to highlighting underrepresented populations in Indianapolis art. Prim discusses the powerful role art plays in sparking conversations about social change – even recalling how a piece on food deserts opened her eyes to new dialogues. Prim also offers incredibly candid advice on overcoming creative blocks and the intersection of art and procrastination. This episode is a fantastic opportunity for our high school students to gain real-world insights from someone navigating the exciting early stages of their professional journey, as Prim even deconstructs the XQ competency of "art analysis," guiding us on how to truly engage with art.

In this thought-provoking episode of Voices of Indianapolis, our student host Luke (fueled by what Sam calls "four cups of coffee energy") leads a deep conversation with esteemed writer, educator, and businessman, Sam Chaltain. Sam takes us back to his early days teaching in China, sharing vivid experiences of living in a foreign country at a young age.

Sam, the national director of the Forum for Education and Democracy and founding director of the Five Freedoms Project, unpacks his powerful philosophy: that education should empower children to understand what it means to be truly free—to explore their passions while remaining connected to our shared humanity. He recounts the serendipitous timing that led him to the First Amendment Schools program, a moment that completely changed his life and underscored the importance of seeking out opportunities.

The discussion takes a personal turn as Sam shares a captivating story about his grandmother, featured in his mother's memoir about her, illustrating how a single decision can ripple across time and impact countless lives. Sam also dives into how people learn best: by actively engaging with their hands and focusing on what truly matters to them. With extensive experience visiting schools worldwide, Sam offers a hopeful perspective on the future of education, leaving us with big questions and inspiring insights.

In this episode of Voices of Indianapolis, our student hosts Annie and Phoenix sit down with Logan Davis, the Vicar of Cornerstone Lutheran Church – the very place our school calls home. Logan, who works closely with our students on outreach and community initiatives, shares invaluable insights from his mentorship under Pastor Jason Taber. He dives into the essential skills for effective pastoral outreach, including understanding pressing community needs and tackling systemic issues in the neighborhood.

Logan highlights the impactful initiatives he's already spearheaded, including a transformative internship where six of our students revitalized the Tuesday night community dinner program. This effort forged significant connections with Indianapolis's East Side. Listeners will hear Logan's profound lessons on the "power of starting from yes," the critical importance of empathy in community work, and the creative spirit needed for true community advocacy. He even shares how he experimented with creativity by collaborating with the Ball State architecture program to design innovative renovations for the church. Annie and Phoenix lead a fantastic interview, bringing Logan's passion and wisdom to the forefront.

In this student-led episode of Voices of Indianapolis, Gabe, A'marion, and Luke from Purdue Polytechnic High School take the reins, interviewing their mentor, David Greene. As the Region President of Indianapolis for First Merchants Bank, David oversees market operations and champions a community-focused approach to banking.

Listeners will discover David's extensive career in financial leadership, from his early days at Comerica Bank to his current role at First Merchants. David shares insights on his commitment to providing financial advice to local residents and businesses, and how he's driving growth in the Indianapolis region.

This episode also highlights David's crucial role in the financial literacy community partnership, where he teaches students valuable personal finance skills using Kerry Ao's Intertwined app. Beyond his professional achievements, David's dedication to community service, including his involvement with the Hamilton County Community Foundation and Impact Indiana, shines through. Join us as we explore the intersection of finance, leadership, and community impact with David Greene.

In this captivating episode of Voices of Indianapolis, students Jayden and Jacob introduce us to the remarkable Rachel Armstrong, a local wrestler and Wrestlearts' rising star. Rachel's story is one of exceptional drive, blending academic excellence with athletic prowess and a passion for finance.

Listeners will discover Rachel's journey from valedictorian of River Forest High School, where she excelled in multiple sports and academics. We delve into her competitive spirit, exploring her high school rivalries and how they've shaped her approach to professional wrestling.

We explore her experiences studying abroad in Japan and Germany, and how it shaped her view of respect and culture. We also explore her journey in professional wrestling, from her debut at Wrestlearts to her significant victories and rivalries with wrestlers like Alice Crowley and Heather Monroe.

Rachel's dedication to both her financial aspirations and her wrestling dreams showcases a young woman with a clear vision and unwavering determination. Join us as we uncover the inspiring story of Rachel Armstrong, a true rising star in Indianapolis and beyond.

In this special episode of Voices of Indianapolis, hosted by our very own student, Nat, we delve into the fascinating world of medical genetics with Dr. Erin E. Conboy. Dr. Conboy, a specialist in Medical Genetics at Riley Medical & Molecular Genetics and Co-director of the Undiagnosed Rare Disease Clinic (URDC), is making a profound impact on the Indianapolis health scene.

Nat's research and interview reveal Dr. Conboy's dedication to diagnosing rare genetic diseases through the URDC. We explore her collaborative work with other departments, including Ophthalmology and Allergy and Immunology, to establish specialized clinics like the Ocular Genetics Clinic and the Genetic Immunodeficiency Clinic.

Beyond her remarkable medical work, we learn about Dr. Conboy's passion for Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, showcasing her dedication and discipline. Join us as we uncover the stories of hope and innovation in medical genetics, and discover how Dr. Conboy and her team are bringing answers to those facing the challenges of rare and undiagnosed conditions.