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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2025
Contact: Jessie Fisher | Marketing Manager
317-614-0450 | jfisher@wfyi.org
After nearly a decade of hosting Indiana Week in Review at WFYI Public Media, Brandon Smith will conclude his role with the show on Friday, September 26 as he embarks on a new professional journey. Indiana Week in Review will continue production, with longtime panelist and Indiana Lawmakers host Jon Schwantes serving as interim host.
“Brandon’s deep understanding of Indiana politics has made Indiana Week in Review a trusted source for our audience,” said Erin Earnest, chief content officer at WFYI Public Media. “We’re grateful for his contributions and excited to continue the show’s legacy.”
Smith, a respected voice in Indiana public broadcasting, has led Indiana Week in Review since 2016. As host, Smith has been a key figure in shaping the show’s thoughtful political discourse, complementing his work as a Statehouse reporter with Indiana Public Broadcasting since 2011.
He will join Hirons, one of Indiana’s largest advertising and public relations firms, to lead its public relations division. “I love being a journalist, but I’m ready to step away and explore new skills and opportunities — and I can think of no better place than Hirons to do that,” Smith said.
“We’ll all miss Brandon’s knowledge, his passion, his humor, and his commitment to first-rate journalism. As a short-term caretaker, I’ll do my best to fill the void. My goal is to help ensure a smooth transition by seeing to it that our viewers and listeners continue to get the insight, clarity, and perspective they’ve come to expect over the past three-plus decades,” said Jon Schwantes, Indiana Week in Review’s interim host.
WFYI Public Media will continue to bring timely insights and balanced perspectives on the week’s news through Indiana Week in Review. Tune in every Friday at 6 p.m. on WFYI Public Radio 90.1 FM and 8:30 p.m. on WFYI Public Television. The signature public affairs program airs weekly on Indiana Public Broadcasting stations throughout the state and is always available to stream on-demand via the PBS app, YouTube, and wfyi.org.
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About WFYI Public Media
Since 1970, WFYI Public Media has served Central Indiana as a trusted friend. Its nonprofit public radio and TV stations, digital content, and community engagement activities provide trusted journalism, inspiring stories, and lifelong learning to Hoosiers of all ages and walks of life. WFYI broadcasts original content, as well as PBS and NPR programs, on three television channels, five radio services – including WBAA – and online. Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Media (MIPM) is the parent organization of WFYI Public Media. Learn more at wfyi.org and follow WFYI online on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok , X/Twitter, YouTube and subscribe for email updates.
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