Inside Richmond: The City's Pulse

This week on Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, guest host Kalleigh Smith welcomes Kristi Cruse to talk about Richmond Parks and Recreation, the Richmond Farmers Market, and the opportunities you might be missing right in your own backyard. Think there’s nothing to do in Richmond? This episode might change your mind.

From JUCO (Just Us Kids Outdoors), a longtime free summer camp, to seasonal festivals and family activities, Kalleigh and Kristi explore how our parks bring people together without putting a strain on the family budget. They share the work behind these programs and why maki...

What does a day in the life of Richmond’s mayor actually look like? For Mayor Ron Oler, it can start with the phone ringing before sunrise and change completely before he ever makes it through the day’s calendar.

Mayor Ron Oler joins host Lindsay Darnell on Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse for a behind-the-scenes look at what municipal leadership really looks like in Richmond. From packed schedules, council and committee meetings, and managing people to approving purchase orders and payroll, visiting city departments, and handling unexpected emergencies, there’s a lot happening that most resident...

A red, white, and blue safe buried beneath concrete for 50 years. A plaque counting down to July 4, 2026. On July 4, 2026, Richmond's Bicentennial time capsule was finally opened, revealing a remarkable collection of everyday history that had been waiting half a century to be seen again.

On Episode 31 of Inside Richmond, we welcome Richmond Mayor Ron Oler and Sue King, archivist at the Morrisson-Reeves Library, to share the incredible story behind Richmond's 1976 Bicentennial time capsule. From locating the capsule and breaking through concrete to discovering the original combination had been lost, they take us behind the scenes of what...

A modern airport terminal is about far more than appearances. It impacts safety, accessibility, economic development, and the first impression visitors have when they arrive in Richmond. Host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Richmond Municipal Airport Manager Rodney Mayse and Board of Aviation President Jonathan Meade to discuss the long-awaited terminal replacement project, the funding behind it, and why this investment matters for the community.

Rodney and Jonathan explain what the new terminal will include, how Richmond secured a $1.4 million FAA grant after years of persistence, and why those federal dollars cannot legally be redirected to roads...

Richmond has been quietly doing something most cities put off for years: counting and assessing its public trees one by one.

In this episode, Lindsay Darnell is joined by Thomas Hill, GIS Coordinator for the City of Richmond; Laura Karnes, ISA Certified Arborist at Richmond Parks & Recreation; and Schelby Schlager, IU ERI McKinney Climate Fellow working with the City through an Urban Green Governance grant, to discuss Richmond's new tree inventory and what it reveals about the city's urban forest.

The group explains how thousands of public trees are being evaluated, what the early data...

Host Lindsay Darnell is joined by Jack Bales, a survivor of the April 6, 1968 Main Street explosions, and Richmond Mayor Ron Oler for a powerful and deeply personal look at one of the most devastating days in the city’s history. From inside the Marting Arms building, Jack recalls thinking the first blast was a sonic boom, until seconds later everything changed. He walks through the chaos moment by moment, from the second explosion fueled by stored ammunition and gunpowder to waking up on top of collapsed debris surrounded by fire, brick, and smoke.

The conversation follows Jack’s es...

Richmond was named as a potential casino market, local leaders got behind it, developers showed interest, and then Wayne County was pulled from House Bill 1038 at the last minute. That shift left a lot of people asking what actually happened and what it means moving forward.

Host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Mayor Ron Oler to break down the full timeline and the real numbers behind the headlines. From the state’s gaming study by Spectrum Gaming Group to how Richmond ended up on the list of “proxy” locations, they walk through what changed as the bill moved...

Vacant lots don’t just sit there, they slow everything around them down. On Richmond’s south side, that’s starting to change in a real way.

Host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Sarah Mitchell from the Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County along with Jeb Reece and Bennett Bensman from Intend Indiana to break down the Vaile Neighborhood Project, a plan bringing 22 new single-family homes to long-vacant parcels and turning them into real opportunities for homeownership.

This conversation gets into what actually makes a project like this possible. From closing the appraisal gap to levera...

Want to see Main Street buzzing after dark again? Host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Acacia St. John of Forward Wayne County and Rebecca Gilliam of the Wayne County Foundation to talk about how the new Wayne County Land Trust is working to keep historic buildings in local hands, open the door for mixed use housing, and create a downtown that truly serves residents and small businesses.

The conversation dives into the real challenges Richmond has faced, including absentee ownership and long vacant storefronts, and why a community land trust offers a practical path forward. You will...

In this episode of Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Richmond Municipal Airport Manager Rodney Mayse and Board of Aviation President Jonathan Meade to discuss why Richmond’s nearly 80 year old airport terminal has reached the end of its usable life and what a modern, ADA compliant facility could mean for the future of the community.

Rodney and Jonathan explain the real challenges facing the current terminal, including chronic leaks, cramped and outdated spaces, and accessibility limitations. They outline how the proposed single stor...

This week on Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Mayor Ron Oler to close out 2025 by taking a clear look at the momentum building across Richmond.

Big change feels different when you can see it from your car window and from a kayak on the river. Together, they pull back the curtain on a downtown comeback rooted in historic preservation, a housing strategy moving at full speed, and a parks system being rebuilt with focus, accountability, and long term vision. From the evolving skyline at Si...

A locked door, a soft bassinet, and a two minute response window. Sometimes that is the difference between a life saved and a tragedy. On this episode of Inside Richmond, host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Monica Kelsey, CEO and Founder of Safe Haven Baby Boxes, along with Richmond Fire Department Deputy Chief Nick Arbogast and Battalion Chief Chris Chappel, to talk about the Safe Haven Baby Box initiative and the one located right here in Richmond.

Monica shares the origin of the program and how her own story of abandonment led her to discover a baby...

Inside Richmond: The City's Pulse, hosted by Lindsay Darnell, welcomes Parks Superintendent Denise Retz and Councilman District 3 Bill Engle to discuss how a small line on your dinner receipt could transform Richmond’s parks. Together, they break down the proposed 1% food and beverage tax, what is taxed, what is not, why state property tax caps created the funding gap, and how council oversight keeps every dollar tied to visible, high impact park projects.

Using the community built master plan as the guide, the conversation walks through the first wave of priorities. These include replacing the 26 year old Gl...

Want a clear view of how a city actually pays for people, projects, and progress? On Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Mayor Ron Oler and Beth Fields, Director of Strategic Initiatives, to unpack Richmond’s 2026 budget. They explain what comes in, what goes out, and why some dollars cannot be moved even when needs feel urgent. If you have ever wondered why sewer funds cannot fix park trails or how a fire engine gets financed, this episode breaks it down clearly.

The conversation starts with the basics: revenue versus appropriations, and...

Ready to rethink what a Midwest getaway can be? Host Lindsay Darnell sits down with Mary Walker and Angel Murphy from the Wayne County Convention and Tourism Bureau to explore how Richmond blends national history, vibrant art, and outdoor adventure into an affordable trip that truly feels different.

From the Levi Coffin House and the legacy of the Underground Railroad, to the birthplace of recorded jazz at Starr-Gennett, to two authentic Egyptian mummies and a mural scene worth every photo stop, Richmond is far from ordinary.

Richmond, Indiana is redefining its future by investing in people. In this episode, Valerie Shaffer, President of the Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County, joins host Lindsay Darnell and Mayor Ron Oler to talk about how the Make My Move program is attracting remote workers and skilled professionals with a $5,000 incentive, curated perks, and genuine community support.

We also hear from Kelley Meadows and Ry Penniman, two newcomers who left high-cost cities for lower expenses, shorter commutes, and a surprising mix of arts, parks, and locally owned restaurants. They share how life in Richmond feels calmer, more...

In this powerful episode of Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, host Lindsay Darnell welcomes two of the city’s top leaders in public safety: Chief Kyle Weatherly of the Richmond Police Department and Chief Jeff Kinder of the Richmond Fire Department.

Chief Weatherly shares his lifelong commitment to service — from his time in the U.S. Army to his career in law enforcement — and explains how the camaraderie within the department and connections with the community have fueled his dedication. He talks about evidence-based policing, the importance of good old-fashioned boots-on...

Baseball is making its triumphant return to Richmond’s historic McBride Stadium! Trevor Amerson, the newly appointed General Manager of Richmond’s Northwoods League team, joined Inside Richmond host Lindsay Darnell to share what promises to be an exciting new chapter for our community.

The Northwoods League delivers a unique baseball experience. It features top college players from across the country competing in a professional style schedule. These athletes play 72 games in just 76 days, preparing for potential professional careers. The league has a strong track record of developing MLB talent, with stars like Max Scherzer and...

🎙️ On this episode of Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, host Lindsay Darnell welcomed Kristi Cruise, Community Recreation Coordinator, and Stephany Plantz, Special Projects and Community Engagement Coordinator, to share all the exciting things happening at Richmond Parks and Recreation.

🌳 Green spaces aren’t just places we visit – they’re where community happens. Richmond Parks and Recreation nurtures over 20 parks, trails, gardens, and community centers that serve as gathering places for everyone in our city. Nearly all events are completely free, removing financial barriers so families can enjoy quality time together.<...

Richmond is transforming before our eyes, and Mayor Ron Oler joined host Lindsay Darnell to give an exclusive look at the exciting changes reshaping our community’s future. The centerpiece of this transformation? A comprehensive new city brand that goes far beyond just a logo – it’s a strategic platform for decision-making and economic development that will position Richmond to compete for residents, businesses, and visitors for decades to come.

The brand, rooted in Richmond’s 2019 comprehensive plan, targets four key audiences: longtime residents who value strong services; emerging professionals from our five colleges seeking vibrant cultural scenes...

The skyline of Richmond, Indiana is undergoing a powerful transformation thanks to a $100 million investment that's reshaping the heart of our city—and the story behind it is just as inspiring as the impact.

On this episode of Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, Dakota Collins of Earlham College and Roxie Deer of Richmond Neighborhood Restoration joined host Lindsay Darnell for a compelling conversation about the Revitalize Richmond initiative—a bold and collaborative effort breathing new life into our historic downtown.

What began with a $25 millio...

"The One Constant in a Child’s Life" – A Conversation with Natalie Natusch from Wayne-Union CASA

When a child enters the foster care system due to abuse or neglect, their world is turned upside down. In an instant, they’re surrounded by unfamiliar faces—caseworkers, attorneys, foster parents, therapists—all trying to help, but all stretched thin. Amid this whirlwind of change, what if one adult focused solely on the child’s best interests? One person who showed up consistently, listened, and stood by them every step of the way?

That’s where CASA steps in...

Ever wonder what secret document guides practically every decision in Richmond’s growth? Mayor Ron Oler, Planning Director Dustin Purvis, and host Lindsay Darnell pull back the curtain on the Comprehensive Plan—the city’s essential roadmap that’s used every day, not something collecting dust on a shelf.

This insightful conversation explores how the plan influences everything from downtown revitalization to tackling multi-generational homelessness. As Richmond updates this critical guide, your voice is needed to shape decisions about which neighborhoods get investment, where new housing will go, and how our community connects through transportation.

The city...

Guests Eric Helms and Jeremy Scarrette join host Lindsay Darnell on Inside Richmond: The City's Pulse for a powerful look behind the scenes of one of Richmond’s most cherished traditions.

Each Independence Day, Glen Miller Park lights up with a dazzling fireworks display—but surprisingly, it's not hosted by the city. For 81 years and counting, American Legion Post 65 has been the driving force behind this beloved community event.

For many, it’s more than just fireworks. It’s a rare chance to unplug and be present with fam...

Discover the heartbeat of Richmond’s local food scene in this engaging conversation hosted by Lindsay Darnell, Community Development Coordinator, as she sits down with Hannah Snoddy, Coordinator of the Richmond Farmer’s Market. What began 50 years ago as a handful of farmers on a street corner has grown into a thriving community hub featuring over 40 vendors every Saturday at Jack Elstro Plaza.

Hannah shares insights into the market’s producer-only policy, which guarantees that everything you buy is made or grown by the person selling it. Many vendors prioritize sustainable practices, demonstrating a shared commit...

Join host Lindsay Darnell as she welcomes Mayor Ron Oler and Public Operations Director Matthew Keller to share Richmond’s exciting progress and community transformation.

Spring has arrived, bringing monthly park cleanup days where neighbors can make a real difference at sites like Middle Fork Cove. “The parks are only as good as everybody who takes care of them,” says Mayor Oler, encouraging residents to get involved.

Last week’s Earth Day event saw 200 sixth graders planting trees they’ll watch grow for decades — a powerful symbol of Richmond’s long-term vision.

Lindsay also highlight...

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at your local government? Guest Karen Chasteen, Richmond's City Clerk for the past 22 years, joined host Lindsay Darnell on Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse to pull back the curtain on one of the most vital yet often misunderstood municipal offices.

Far from just taking meeting notes, the City Clerk’s office serves as the beating heart of local government operations. “We have 200 years of history in my vault,” Chasteen shares, highlighting how her team has worked to transform those historical archives into accessible digital records that citizens can browse f...

Ever wondered how cities like Richmond find the money to fund essential projects—without asking taxpayers to pay more? The secret often lies in strategic grant funding. In this episode, Audrey Shake, Grant Administrator for the City of Richmond, joins host Lindsay Darnell, Community Development Coordinator, to pull back the curtain on how it all works.

Audrey takes us behind the scenes of the city’s grant process—from digging into research and identifying opportunities, to writing compelling proposals that align with both community needs and grant priorities. Her work touches nearly every department and fuels projects that m...

Mayor Oler joins host Lindsay Darnell to dive into Richmond's ambitious dual initiatives aimed at reshaping the city's future—a comprehensive branding effort and a crucial refresh of the Richmond Rising comprehensive plan. For the first time in its history, Richmond is creating a unified brand that genuinely reflects its current identity, moving beyond outdated references like the "Rose City" or the "Gateway to Indiana."

"The city, as far as we can tell, has never had a comprehensive, holistic, or citywide brand that truly unites its identity," explains Mayor Oler. He draws a distinction between the logo th...

Join host Lindsay Darnell on Inside Richmond: The City's Pulse as we dive into Richmond’s exciting transformation with Mayor Ron Oler. Explore the city’s rebranding journey, from community workshops to strategic consulting, all aimed at shaping a vibrant, forward-thinking identity. Discover how Richmond plans to attract young families and graduates, ensuring a thriving future for generations to come.

Mayor Oler shares his deep connection to Richmond and the vital role of community input in this bold initiative. Learn how traditional media and social platforms are being leveraged to reach every demographic, and hear about creative idea...

Ever wondered what it takes to bring a winter festival to life? Join me, Lindsay Darnell, as we explore the frosty excitement of the Richmond Meltdown Festival! From ice carving to a chili for charity event, we’ll uncover all the magic happening from January 30th to February 1st. Discover the festivities that promise fun for the whole family and learn how you can participate in this enchanting celebration by heading over to richmondmeltdown.com. Let the winter wonderland warm your heart with its unique activities, including the thrilling ice cream eating contest and a grand firework display!

Discover the key to a safer Richmond as host, Lindsay Darnell sits down with Mayor Ron Oler to discuss game-changing advancements in our city's public safety landscape. Learn how the Richmond Police and Fire Departments are stepping up their efforts with new vehicles, increased personnel, and innovative initiatives like the Safe Haven Baby Box. These moves are set to strengthen community ties and enhance safety as we look forward to 2025. Plus, find out about the upcoming community policing meeting in the Starr District, providing a direct line between residents and law enforcement.

Get ready to envision a...

Discover how Richmond is taking bold steps to secure its future against environmental threats. Join us in a compelling conversation with show host Lindsay Darnell joined by guests Pat Smoker, Director of Sanitation, and Elijah Welch, District Engineer, who reveal the proactive measures being undertaken at the Richmond wastewater treatment plant. This episode promises to unravel the intricacies of the levee project's urgent need for upgrades due to vulnerabilities like animal burrows and overgrown vegetation. Learn about the strategic application for an OCRA grant to enhance the levee’s resilience with essential features such as raising its height and in...