This communication describes two approaches toward the total synthesis of (+)- suaveolindole. The initial strategy uses a 6-exo-Heck cyclization to generate a transient sp3 carbopalladate. This intermediate was successfully coupled with an indole 3-stannane to assemble the majority of the carbon framework of the natural product. However, due to problems described herein, this interesting route was not viable. To reach our target, ...