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You’ve likely already heard Sofia Stuart-Rasi on air during WFYI’s Morning Edition. To get to know her a bit better, we chatted with her away from the studio.
Why are you excited about becoming WFYI’s new local Morning Edition host?
WFYI is leading in the public radio world. So, I am so very excited to be a part of this station.
I have a passion for local news because who doesn’t like to know what’s going on around us? And you never know, you might see your own neighbor on the news or your favorite hairdresser. Or that one person you know but like not know super well … ya know what I mean, haha!
What past experiences have prepared you for this role?
Right before moving to Indy, I was a Morning Edition host and reporter in Cortez, Colorado, a small, rural town in Southwest Colorado. I have a Master’s in Environmental Science and Natural Resource Journalism from the University of Montana, and I was a student reporter at Montana Public Radio. Before that, I studied at the Salt Institute in Portland, Maine, and have a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art. I like to think my windy background makes me a more understanding host.
You relocated for this job. What makes you excited about working here?
Oh, to be in a city again! There is so much going on in Indy and the Hoosier state. I am excited to be right in the middle of it all, from desired concerts and shows to human rights issues and climate change. You name it, we are talking about it here.
What’s the most surprising story you’ve reported on before?
The Navajo Nation Pageant, for sure. Women compete in a number of events in this pageant, but one competition I did not see coming is sheep skinning. Women can do a lot, so it’s refreshing and very, very cool to see the range of our abilities!
When you’re not making public radio magic, what do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy the outdoors. I grew up skiing, hiking and camping in the Rocky Mountains. And now that I have resided in the Midwest, I am going to be out and about biking around the city exploring shows and restaurants. I also signed up for my first half marathon here. So, we will see how that goes. Wish me luck – I’m gonna need it!
Is there one thing you’d most want locals’ advice on?
Best local coffee shop? Best local bakery? Best brunch? Also, is there a Persian scene here (I’m half Persian)? I’m on the search for ghourmeh sabzi. Oh, and also! Is there a good farm-to-house food box that's seasonal and/or year-round?
And last but not least, what’s going on with the pothole situation in the city?
Have an answer to any of Sofia's questions? Send over your thoughts.
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Tune in to hear Sofia and Morning Edition each weekday on 90.1 WFYI 5 to 9 a.m. ET on your radio, at wfyi.org/listen or via your smart speaker.
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