MINDS makes the vital connections between social issues, various forms of music, and social action. Music in this sense becomes not only a tool for emphasizing the issues, but is also a study in how it is so deeply a part of how we see ourselves and our hopes in the society we live in. The show is organized with monthly themes and weekly guests who are invited to talk about some aspect of that theme. Already, issues regarding Poverty in America, Political Prisoners and Human Rights, Education, and Race in America have been introduced.

Each theme is selected and each guest invited to MINDS in order to engage the Dartmouth community and listeners in thought-provoking ideas about our histories and how we, as a global society are living today. Education and discussion are among the show's primary goals. Guests on the show bring ideas for how to further education through experiential learning and social action, with the hope that even more discussion will be sparked in other arenas.

Casey Sixkiller, the show's host, said, "The social issues we present are aimed at getting folks thinking and interested in exploring what is going on around us, making their own decisions, and doing something about it. I've learned so much just talking with our guests and listening to the music that accompanies their perspective. And I've just begun to understand that most of these issues are interconnected in some way - whether we're talking about Tibet or Native Americans, and so on." James Valadez, the show's music director, added, "It's about looking at a common goal, a common vision, and not just common enemies."

So, if you're in the area and in the mood for some interesting conversation, thoughts on social action, and some smooth surprises like Marvin Gaye, Tibetan monk chants, or Ulali, tune in on Wednesdays from 5-6pm on 1340 WDCR.