Staff Spotlight: Scott McAlister

As a member of WFYI, you power the stories you love and rely on; but someone has to produce, distribute, fundraise for and promote those stories. Each month here in the Insiders' Magazine, you'll see a series introducing you to the team here at WFYI. Learn about journalists, radio producers, administrative specialists and all the dedicated individuals who — alongside your support — bring you the shows you care about.

What does your work at WFYI usually entail?

I like to call myself a professional stuff maker, and one of the things I love about being a stuff maker is that I get to work on all kinds of different projects. Sometimes it's a promo for a new Finding Your Roots episode. Sometimes it's a story for Across Indiana. Sometimes it's a video reminding folks how important their sustaining membership is. My favorite thing to work on is Simple Civics - a web series I co-produce that shares quick lessons about our laws and government. I love finding fun ways to explain complex issues and producing this series has taught me so many things that I forgot from my own civics education. 

I like to call myself a professional stuff maker, and one of the things I love about being a stuff maker is that I get to work on all kinds of different projects. Promos... stories... videos reminding folks how important membership is. My favorite thing to work on is Simple Civics. I love finding fun ways to explain complex issues and producing this series has taught me so many things that I forgot from my own civics education.

What do you enjoy most about working at WFYI?

I grew up watching this station (shoutout to Arthur) and I've known I wanted to work as an editor/producer since I was in the fifth grade. I feel blessed that I get to do what I love for a living and for a mission that I believe in. I think it's an exciting time to work here.

When you’re not at work, what can you often be found doing?

I love to cook. I'll read a cookbook like my partner will a novel. I play keys and percussion in a band called Boldylocks (check us out wherever you listen to things). I like crafting collages — or maybe I just like cutting things out of magazines. I love a good hike. My favorite trail in Indiana is Trail 3 at Turkey Run State Park. If you know, you know.

What program on WFYI are you interested in watching/listening to next?

I'm always eager to hear what Kyle Long talks about each week on Cultural Manifesto. I've been introduced to so many amazing Hoosier artists because of this show!