Yearning and Learning in Indianapolis with Auboni Essence

Host Michael Zarick interviews Indianapolis poet Auboni Hart (Auboni Essence) about performing writing, creating community “third places,” and her evolving pride in Naptown. They discuss how stage performance adds emotion and meaning beyond the page, Auboni’s rehearsal process, and her work with That Peace Open Mic, which she joined in 2017 and says has adapted through COVID with virtual shows and more spacing at in-person events. Auboni shares how she shifted from disliking Indianapolis to intentionally seeing its beauty, highlighting local bookstores, events, and favorite food spots. She describes a third space as somewhere you can show up without an expectation to spend money. Auboni also explains forming a one-off band for her Naptones award-show performance, being named a 2026 Art & Soul artist, and she performs her poem “Let Me Down Easy.”Third Space Indy is supported by City Rising (cityrising.org)00:00 What Is Performing00:40 Intro01:08 Meeting Auboni 04:47 Why Perform Poetry07:37 Repping Indianapolis12:47 Finding Your Community14:54 Forming A One Off Band18:34 That Peace Open Mic Origins20:53 COVID And Open Mic Changes30:07 Do I Get Art35:05 Third Space Definition36:52 Paying For Community39:04 Values Over Convenience39:38 Third Space Not Transaction40:50 Lost Third Spaces42:42 Childhood Porch Nostalgia45:22 Ocean Versus Space47:46 Space Curiosity Not Colonizing50:20 Art and Soul Spotlight53:03 Performing Writing Live56:55 Feedback And Sensitivity59:48 Poem: Let Me Down Easy01:04:25 Freedom Reimagined Question01:07:45 Where To Find Auboni01:09:23 Final Thanks And Credits