On this episode of “On the Aisle,” host Tom Alvarez sits down with community leader and musician Shelly Snider, who shares her journey from growing up as a United Methodist preacher’s kid in Indianapolis to becoming a powerhouse in Indiana’s LGBTQ+ community through Indy Pride, the Pride of Indy Bands, and now the Damien Center.

She talks about juggling corporate life, nonprofit work, and family, the joy and healing power of music, and how a scrappy idea on a pizza-napkin became a 60+ member queer band that has marched in presidential inaugurations and is headed to the Tournament of Roses Parade.

Shelly opens up about surviving professional setbacks, honoring queer history and the AIDS crisis, raising her son with her wife, and why she believes risk-taking, collaboration, and radical hope are essential for the next generation. If you care about arts, activism, or what it really means to build community in the Midwest, this conversation is packed with heart, history, and inspiration.

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On this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with longtime broadcaster and storyteller Tom Cochrun for a wide-ranging, deeply personal conversation that spans career, creativity, community, and legacy.

Cochrun and Tom discuss their shared history in broadcasting, including their collaboration on a James Dean documentary that continues to resonate with new audiences today. Both men explore the power of storytelling, the importance of trusting creative instincts, and the fearless ambition that drove their early careers.

Alvarez opens up about his personal journey—navigating identity, being a pioneer as a Latino and openly gay broadcaster, and overcoming industry barriers. Cochrun offers heartfelt reflections on witnessing those challenges and the progress made in media diversity, while also expressing concern about preserving those hard-won gains.

The two also dive into the evolution of journalism, from analog roots to the digital age, emphasizing the importance of community storytelling and mentoring the next generation. Cochrun shares how he continues to stay engaged through writing, photography, and local initiatives—even as he approaches 80.

The episode closes with a passionate discussion about the value of the arts—why live performance, music, and storytelling remain essential for human connection, emotional expression, and community unity in an increasingly digital and polarized world.

A thoughtful, nostalgic, and inspiring conversation between two seasoned voices who’ve helped shape—and continue to reflect on—the worlds of media and the arts.

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In this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with acclaimed director James Vasquez (also known as Pedro James Vasquez) for a powerful conversation about theater, identity, and the stories that bring people together. Currently directing the hit Broadway musical Come From Away at the Indiana Repertory Theatre, James shares how the production captures the extraordinary true story that unfolded in the wake of the September 11 attacks, when a small Canadian town welcomed thousands of stranded travelers with compassion and generosity. He discusses the unique challenge of staging a fast-paced, ensemble-driven show where just 12 actors portray more than 70 characters, and how he is crafting a fresh vision without relying on past productions.

Beyond the stage, the conversation explores James’ personal journey—from his early days at the Old Globe Theatre to becoming a nationally recognized director—and his experience navigating the industry as a Mexican-American artist. He opens up about reclaiming his full name, Pedro James Vasquez, and the importance of representation and telling culturally authentic stories, including his work on American Mariachi. At its heart, this episode highlights why theater continues to matter: its ability to create genuine human connection, spark meaningful conversations long after the curtain falls, and remind us—much like Come From Away—that even in the most difficult moments, kindness and community can shine through.

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