WFYI Honors Women Visionaries
Nearly 40 years ago, WFYI was founded through the efforts of the late Ardath Y. Burkhart and a network of women in neighborhoods and communities throughout Indianapolis. Together these women inspired thousands to help raise the funds necessary to bring public broadcasting to Indianapolis. Thanks to her ingenuity, vision and dedication, WFYI continues to enrich the community with its distinctive programs and services.

In honor of its history and the important roles women have played in support of public broadcasting in Central Indiana, WFYI is sharing the stories of the area's next generation of "Ardath's Army" through Wired & Inspired – a series of informational gatherings that highlight interesting women-owned businesses and organizations.

Wired & Inspired celebrates women with the vision and determination to start and run their own business. WFYI hosts events that showcase local business owners and gives them a platform to share their stories and insights about the challenges they have overcome in operating successfull businesses.

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Martha Hoover
June 5, 2008
This was inaugural event celebrating women with the vision and determination to start and run their own business. Martha Hoover shared the inspirational story of how Café Patachou grew from a cherished neighborhood staple to their recently opened Petite Chou by Patachou restaurant in Broad Ripple and new openings planned for the future.

She shared her passion for the quality ingredients in the meals you eat and why she wanted to open a restaurant that offered food she was comfortable with her children eating.

Cathy Langham
October 9, 2008
Cathy Langham, President of Langham Logistics, shared her story of the founding and 20-year growth of her successful women-led business in an industry with few female executives.

She also talked about being part of the Indianapolis Super Bowl selection committee and a visit by President George W. Bush to her offices. Cathy hosted this event at Langham Logistics, 5335 West 74th Street.

Billie Dragoo
March 5, 2009
Billie Dragoo shared her experience as an entrepreneur, executive and business owner in Indianapolis. An ardent advocate and mentor for women business owners, Billie will also share her insights as the past president of the National Association of Women Business Owners and Chairman for the Indiana Business Women Owner's Political Action Committee.