Get IN. with Nate Spangle

Epizode

• The Passion Project That Took Him From Indiana to Patagonia | Steve Haigh, Destination Angler Podcast 06.07.2026 1h

  Gone fishing! On today's show I cast a fly with Steve Haigh, founder and host of the popular Destination Angler Podcast, a fly fishing podcast based in Carmel, Indiana that highlights top fishing destinations in North America. Haigh explains how the show began during COVID after his corporate sales work slowed, quickly surpassing his early download expectations, and grew into a global destination-focused platform with 170 episodes. He shares his early fishing roots in Toledo, Ohio, learning fly fishing at 14, and describes fly fishing as an active, technical sport involving insect hatches, casting mechanics, and presentation. Haigh recalls memorable experiences and podcast guests, including trips with listeners to Patagonia, meeting top competitors and legendary anglers, and stories involving Bobby Knight. He also recommends accessible Midwest and Indiana fly fishing options, and emphasizes guides and borrowing gear to start. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - How the Destination Angler Podcast Started - The Best Fishing Destinations in North America - The Sport of Fly Fishing and Advice for Beginners Thank you to our partners: NCW Boone County Check out these great clips from the show: 01:18 Guest Introduction: Steve Haigh, Destination Angler 02:10 Starting The Podcast 03:02 Growing Up Fishing 04:57 Discovering Fly Fishing 05:28 Fly Fishing Basics 09:15 Hooked For Life 13:12 Launching Early Episodes 14:32 Patagonia Listener Trip 17:34 Why Guides Matter 19:36 Editing And Publishing Rhythm 20:48 Legendary Guests Stories 23:50 First Ads And Monetization 25:25 Bobby Knight Fishing Tales 29:05 Jackson Hole Fly Tips 29:43 Snake River Wildlife 31:20 Indiana Fly Basics 32:02 Smallmouth vs. Largemouth 33:01 Picking The Right Fly 33:33 Midwest Trout Road Trips 33:56 Saltwater Fly Giants 34:59 Wisconsin Driftless Access 36:20 Michigan Rivers And Steelhead 39:25 Pride Fish Story 42:05 Podcast Purpose And Fans 44:04 Underrated Destinations 45:47 Patagonia And Alaska 49:00 Float Or Wade Timing 50:26 Indiana Spots And Gear 53:06 Fly Fishing Changed Lives 54:22 Etiquette And Rod Talk 55:31 Indiana Rapid Fire 57:48 Where To Start Listening Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• Why Indiana Isn't a Flyover State Anymore | Danny Lopez, Indiana State Representative (R) 03.07.2026 1h 12min

  On today's show I sat down with Danny Lopez, Indiana State Representative (House District 39) and President & CEO of Vincam Public Relations, about how sports drives economic development in Indiana. Lopez moved from Miami to Indiana in 2008 and was pulled into state leadership circles. He discusses talent retention through "boomeranging" graduates back to Indiana, the state's population growth versus neighboring states, and how user-funded venue deals can minimize general-fund taxpayer risk. Lopez details his transition from serving in Governor Holcomb's office to leading external affairs for Pacers Sports & Entertainment during COVID, Gainbridge Fieldhouse renovations, and planning NBA All-Star 2024. He also highlights Indiana Sports Corp, the impacts of major events, northwest Indiana's Bears stadium conversations, and broader growth catalysts like LEAP and Lilly. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Danny Lopez's Transition from Politics to Pacers and Back to Politics - Indiana's Growth Compared to Nearby States - The Role of Sports as an Economic Machine in Indiana Thank you to our partners: Boone County Check out these great clips from the show: 01:13 Guest Introduction: Danny Lopez, Indiana State Representative 02:35 From Miami to Indy 03:48 Universities and Boomerang Talent 09:51 Finding Home in Indiana 11:54 Say Yes Do the Work 15:24 Politics to Pacers 16:59 Inside PS&E Operations 19:32 COVID Renovation All Star 22:14 Sports as Economic Engine 24:34 Bears Stadium Hammond Debate 26:55 LEAP and Smart Incentives 28:56 Media Value of Mega Events 32:42 Indiana Sports Corp Legacy 34:46 Workforce and Industry Strategy 37:54 Downtown Built for Events 39:44 Chasing the Next Big Event 41:22 WWE Brings Big Money 43:14 Concerts And Stadium Taxes 43:38 Learning Policy The Hard Way 45:41 Why He Chose Politics 47:29 Indiana Competes Globally 49:58 Lilly And Leap Momentum 52:30 Endowment Powers Amenities 56:57 Higher Ed And Enrollment Cliff 58:13 Indiana Next 250 Years 01:00:52 Rapid Fire Favorites 01:02:32 Advice For Young Leaders 01:06:16 Commencement Speech Craft 01:07:57 Hidden Gems And Hoosiers 01:10:08 Favorite Indiana Moment Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• Why You Shouldn't Blindly Follow a Political Party | Lindsay Gramlich & Beau Bayh, Indiana Democratic Candidates 01.07.2026 1h 12min

  On today's show I sat down with Lindsay Gramlich, CEO of Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis and 2026 Democratic candidate for Indiana House District 39, and Beau Bayh, Marine Corps veteran, attorney, and 2026 Democratic candidate for Indiana Secretary of State. They discuss public service, getting young Hoosiers engaged in government, why to enter politics despite negativity, focusing on listening, community, and working across the aisle, and issues young people care about including jobs, student loans, affordability, healthcare, safety, and especially housing costs and brain drain. Bayh explains the Secretary of State's duties and measures success by increasing voter participation, while Gramlich highlights state-level impacts like property taxes, utilities, clean water, and concerns about supermajority governance and public education funding. They then share civic-entry ideas like the Hoosier Hall Pass, volunteering, paging, and Girls Inc. "She Votes," favorite Indiana places and memories, and why Indiana's people and community keep them rooted here. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Importance of Voter Participation and Measures of Political Success - Important Issues for Young Hoosiers - Duties for Secretary of State and House Representatives Thank you to our partners: Hope Plumbing Indy Grills Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Indiana Potential Tease 01:20 Guest Introduction: Lindsay Gramlich and Beau Bayh, Indiana Democratic Candidates 02:32 Why Run for Office 04:56 Reaching Young Voters 07:38 Civic Origin Stories 10:43 Issues Young Hoosiers Face 13:58 Which Offices Matter Most 17:09 The Reality of Representation 19:55 Public Education and Local Impact 22:51 Why Serve Anyway 26:28 Staying Informed Beyond Algorithms 29:26 Person Over Party 31:48 Long Form Media and Civility 35:20 What Gives Hope for Indiana 39:38 Young Talent and Saying Yes 41:42 Indiana Hustle Mindset 42:57 Jim Morris Minivan Story 47:43 Measuring Political Success 51:58 Getting Into Politics 54:53 Campaign Trail Stories 59:36 Why Indiana Is Home 01:02:19 Hidden Gems Spotlight 01:05:22 Hoosiers To Watch 01:07:19 Favorite Indiana Memories 01:10:01 How To Connect Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• The Car Dealer Who Caddied for Presidents and Built an IndyCar Team | Tom Kelley, Kelley Automotive Group 29.06.2026 1h 11min

  On today's show I chatted about everything automotive with Tom Kelley, president of family-owned Kelley Automotive Group, founded in Fort Wayne in 1952 by his father, Jim, the day Tom was born. Tom joined the business in 1974 after earning a business degree at IU and playing college golf, using the sport to build relationships with figures like Bobby Knight and George H.W. Bush. He explains how dealership growth accelerated after GM relaxed multi-store restrictions, expanding into multiple brands and markets including Atlanta, Clearwater, and Oklahoma, and how GM's 2010 bankruptcy eliminated divisions like Saturn and Saab, forcing closures, layoffs, asset sales, and new partners to survive. Tom also recounts entering IndyCar through Tony George and George's grandfather Tony Hulman, running the Indy 500, and later selling Kelley Racing to form what became Ed Carpenter Racing. He highlights Fort Wayne's civic collaboration, philanthropy, youth career pathways, and why Indiana's people, opportunity, and sports history make it home. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - How Tom Kelley Scaled Kelley Automotive Group - Why Tom Started an IndyCar Team - Tom's Caddying Experience with Presidents Thank you to our partners: NCW Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Survival Mindset Teaser 01:18 Guest Introduction: Tom Kelley, Kelley Automotive Group 02:29 Born Into Dealerships and Flying 04:39 Golf Dreams and Career Choice 06:27 Golf Connections and Bobby Knight 08:47 Dealership Growth Rules and Strategy 12:32 Atlanta Expansion and GM Shutdowns 17:05 After Dad Passed Estate Decisions 18:34 How Dealership Financing Works 21:45 Fair Deals and Repeat Customers 24:51 IndyCar Team Origin Story 30:19 Calling the Indy 500 32:24 Caddying for Presidents 36:03 Fame Privacy and Social Media 37:44 Surviving GM Collapse 39:37 Tsunami Bankruptcy Fallout 41:19 Hard Calls With Empathy 41:59 Credit Lines Crisis 43:15 Partners and Sacrifice 44:45 Fort Wayne Rally Crew 45:50 Electric Works Breakthrough 47:34 Sweetwater and Chuck 51:21 Career Pathways For Kids 55:12 Passion Beats Quitting 57:45 Why Indiana Feels Home 59:06 Golf and Fort Wayne Eats 01:02:44 Bring Back The Pistons 01:05:09 Indiana Sports Legacy 01:07:20 Hidden Gem Northeast 01:08:13 Hoosier To Watch Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• He Bought a Boat Dealership Doing $375K… Now It Does $23M | J Hurless, Reeder Trausch Marine 26.06.2026 1h 14min

  On today's show I sat down with J Hurless, co-owner of Indiana boating dealership and service company Reeder Trausch Marine. Hurless shares how he dropped out of high school, built a sales and leadership career at Ray Skillman until age 28, then bought Reeder Trausch in 2018 with little marine experience. The dealership had been a steady family business selling eight boats a year ($375K in 2017), and Hurless faced immediate challenges including a drained lake, limited working capital, and no floor-plan credit. By cleaning up the business, launching a website, hustling on Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace, engaging the Rockville community, and securing manufacturer-backed lending, the company grew rapidly to $1.2M in 2018 and $23M by 2023, later acquiring Denny's Marina in 2024. Hurless also emphasizes building teams, training talent, embracing change, and resilience through setbacks. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - How a High School Dropout Acquired a Boat Business - Leading More Experienced/Older Coworkers - Tips to Scaling a Business Quickly Thank you to our partners: Keller & Keller J.C. Hart Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Lake Drained Shock 00:24 Guest Introduction: J Hurless, Reeder Trausch Marine 03:46 Dropping Out Hustle 05:24 Car Sales Rise 07:17 Leadership Lessons 10:15 Boat Buying Pain 14:28 Buying The Marina 21:25 Closing Day Surprise 24:40 Cleaning And Community 27:56 First Sales And Credit 37:19 Pre-Selling Boats 38:00 Building The Team 39:19 Nationwide Boat Demand 41:23 Growth Pains And Hiring 42:45 Revenue Explosion Numbers 43:38 Why Acquire Denny's Marina 44:31 Acquisition Secrets And Risks 45:58 Integrating The New Staff 48:53 Indy vs Rockville Performance 51:29 Future Expansion Ideas 53:59 Talent Development Playbook 56:50 Leading Without Micromanaging 59:59 Advice For Scaling Fast 01:01:53 Worst Day As Owner 01:05:09 Redefining Success Through People 01:07:22 Why Indiana Home 01:08:43 Indiana Favorites And Hidden Gems 01:10:43 Hoosier To Watch And Farewell Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• He Quit Comedy for 20 Years… Then Came Back at 48 | Chris Ryan, Comedian 24.06.2026 1h 4min

  On today's show I shared some laughs with Westfield-based comedian Chris Ryan, who returned to stand-up after a 20-year break. Ryan got his start in IU's Full Frontal Comedy in the mid-'90s alongside Straight No Chaser, training in Chicago improv at ImprovOlympic, and moving to Los Angeles in 1998 with $2,000 from a near-fatal car accident. In LA he worked at Paramount while pursuing stand-up, auditioned for MadTV, and waited alongside Seth Meyers, who was offered SNL the same week. The setback helped prompt Ryan's exit, grad school in journalism at Illinois, and a move to Indianapolis. After 15+ years in healthcare marketing, therapy and a company sale pushed him to write and perform hour-long shows, including Thermometer and Nothing Means Anything, centered on parenting twins, adolescence, and midlife reinvention. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Ryan's Journey in Comedy From IU to Chicago to LA - Why Ryan Stepped Away from Comedy - Scripting, Speeches, and Improv Thank you to our partners: Bloomrank Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Am I Crazy Cold Open 01:16 Guest Introduction: Chris Ryan, Comedian 02:09 Bloomington Improv Origins 02:57 Auditions And Campus Fame 06:03 Chicago Improv And The Harold 08:57 Yes And Gifts Onstage 11:50 Finding A Creative Path 14:12 Detroit, Chicago, LA 16:54 Car Crash Sign To Move 19:38 Paramount Day Job 23:31 MadTV Audition Near Miss 25:42 Grad School And Midwest Reset 27:10 Indy Roots And 30 Under 30 29:40 Returning To Comedy At 48 30:37 Career Shakeup Catalyst 32:09 Therapy And Reaching Out 33:05 Theater Deal Home Base 34:23 Writing A Full Hour 36:22 Script Versus Riffing 38:38 Old Jokes New Opener 40:49 Alanis Opener OCD Stories 43:34 Speechwriting Performance Tips 49:04 Embrace Fear Of Bombing 53:15 Rapid Fire Indiana Round 58:16 Hidden Gems And BBQ 01:00:37 Letterman Story And Wrap Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• How a Tech Entrepreneur Reshaped Indianapolis' Live Music Scene | Scott Kraege, Forty5, The Vogue, and Rock the Ruins 22.06.2026 1h 10min

  On today's show I sat down with Indianapolis entrepreneur and entertainment operator Scott Kraege, who shares his 18-year "overnight success" journey and today is a managing partner at Ivy Ventures, Forty5 partner, and co-owner of The Vogue Theatre, a concert venue in Broad Ripple. Kraege's journey started with him selling cell phones out of his car in 1999 to founding the enterprise device-management software company MOBI (later Tangoe), growing it to 350 employees, and selling in 2018. He explains his approach to investing and mentorship, emphasizing that founders and people matter most and that startups often evolve far from their original idea. He describes post-exit life, joining The Heritage Group's venture program, and later buying The Vogue in 2019 with partners, then navigating COVID shutdowns, staffing losses, and creative pivots. He also details how Forty5 expanded into multiple venues and outdoor series like Rock the Ruins, plus launching Opendate software, and discusses sponsorships, public-private partnerships, and future concert infrastructure needs in Indianapolis. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Scott Kraege's Journey from Cell Phones to Indianapolis' Live Entertainment Scene - The Origin of Rock the Ruins and How Park Concerts Work - Indy's Future with Live Music Thank you to our partners: Keller & Keller Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Ten-Year Success Myth 01:30 Guest Introduction: Scott Kraege, Forty5, The Vogue, and Rock the Ruins 02:56 First Startup Cell Phones 04:45 Inc 500 Growth Lessons 05:18 Building MOBI To Exit 07:17 Ten-Year Founder Mindset 09:20 Mentors Indy Culture 14:20 Post-Exit Identity Reset 17:10 Venture Investing 19:30 How VCs Pick Founders 21:45 Buying The Vogue 23:03 Vogue History Legends 26:48 COVID Shutdown Survival 30:34 Forty5 Opendate Launch 33:15 Rock The Ruins Origin 37:19 Turntable Venue Pipeline 38:45 Making Park Concerts Work 40:39 Rock the Ruins Vibe 41:20 Big Venues vs Easy Shows 42:05 Final Four Mall Concerts 43:28 How ALM Happened 44:37 Beach Festival Inspiration 45:21 Sponsor Village Strategy 47:04 Why Sponsors Matter 49:44 Broad Ripple Park Shows 52:20 Future of Indy Live Music 54:08 Dream Venues and Infrastructure 57:03 Why Indiana Home 58:39 Concert Memories and Dream Acts 01:05:12 Hidden Gems and Hoosiers Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• Can Bloomington Become the Midwest's Next Startup Hub? | John Fernandez, Amplify Bloomington 19.06.2026 1h

  On today's show I sat down with John Fernandez, CEO of Amplify Bloomington and former Bloomington mayor and Obama administration economic development leader. Fernandez explains how the former Showers Brothers Furniture Factory site became an innovation hub through public-private partnerships, infrastructure investment, and entrepreneur-driven community building, expanding from The Mill to The Forge and nearby private initiatives like The Kiln. We discuss why homegrown companies like Cook Group matter, the need for economic diversification, and Bloomington's challenges and strengths in talent retention and storytelling. He highlights founder support, peer groups, local "sleeper" companies, and the Flywheel Fund's early-stage investing. Amplify's goals include scaling 10 firms from $1M to $10M revenue by 2031 and retaining more IU graduates in Bloomington. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - How a Furniture Factory Site Evolved to a Community Hub - Amplify Bloomington's Five-Year Vision - Bloomington's "Sleeper" Companies Thank you to our partners: Kelley School of Business Berne Apparel Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Indiana Startup Vibe 01:40 Guest Introduction: John Fernandez, Amplify Bloomington 02:27 Inside The Mill District 05:10 From Warehouses to Hub 07:09 Revitalization Playbook 08:41 Cook Group Impact 11:07 Why Entrepreneurs Matter 12:37 Selling Bloomington Life 14:20 John's Kokomo Origins 18:24 Politics and Public Service 19:46 Keeping Talent Local 24:31 Midwest Culture and Grit 27:31 Bloomington Startup Stars 31:04 Founder Challenges Today 31:35 Founder Talent And Integration 31:52 Peer Groups And Community 32:35 No Net Founder Stories 33:57 Why Innovation Helps Workers 36:53 Spillover Economics And Events 39:10 Building An Ecosystem 42:09 Five-Year Vision And Goals 44:46 Pride And IU Alumni Network 47:39 Keeping Graduates In Indiana 49:53 Why Indiana Home 50:26 Obama Call And Clearance 53:42 Bloomington First Impression 54:16 Local Government Advice 55:54 Indiana Lightning Round 57:51 IU Championship Memories 59:01 Wrap Up Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• "Dabblers Die." The Advice That Built Her Business | Jenn Schimmelpfennig, Pivot Brands 17.06.2026 1h 6min

  On today's show I sat down with Jenn Schimmelpfennig, founder and president of Indianapolis agency Pivot Brands. Pivot Brands launched in 2006 after Jenn built a brand-strategy segment inside Print Resources and spun it off with support from its owners. She describes learning business early from her father, starting her career post-9/11, and developing a strategy-first approach that uses research to define a brand's core idea and tone, with examples like GreenCycle's "GreenCycle equals mulch" focus and dog-loving Metazoa Brewing's "drink beer, help animals" positioning. She discusses earning credibility as a young woman by relying on customer and employee insights, insisting on a leadership-table posture, and staying focused on branding rather than taking every project. Our conversation also covers place branding through No Mean City in 2013 and the rapid-response Indy Welcomes All campaign in response to the Religious Freedom Restoration Act in 2015. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - How Pivot Brands was Founded - The Process of Defining a Brand Identity - Place Branding Concepts Thank you to our partners: Visit Wabash County Bloomrank Check out these great clips from the show: 01:23 Guest Introduction: Jenn Schimmelpfennig, Pivot Brands 03:18 Early Business Spark 05:06 First Jobs And Learning 07:16 From Printing To Strategy 10:02 First Big Win GreenCycle 12:53 Finding Brand Voice 14:47 Launching Pivot In 2006 21:57 Building Credibility Young 22:50 Leading As A Young Woman 26:23 Growing Pivot With Purpose 27:53 Narrowing To Branding Lane 29:06 Saying No And Referrals 32:17 Starting Later And Niche 33:58 Quit Dabbling Commit Fully 35:48 Branding Places In Indiana 36:37 Authentic Place Branding 37:56 Measuring Place ROI 38:42 No Mean City Origins 41:03 Telling Hard Truths 42:41 80 Creators Collective 44:02 Name Meaning Layers 46:40 From No Mean City Forward 49:51 Indy Welcomes All Crisis 54:43 Branding Indiana Strategy 56:31 Word Association Game 01:01:50 Why Indiana Home Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• The Chocolate Maker Who Built a $20 Million Dinosaur Museum | Mark Tarner, South Bend Chocolate Company & Indiana Dinosaur Museum 15.06.2026 58min

  On today's show I sat down with Mark Tarner, founder of the South Bend Chocolate Company and the Indiana Dinosaur Museum in South Bend. Tarner grew up in Leesburg, moved to South Bend at 13, and learned candy-making from his father before leaving his dad's business at 28 to build a branded, higher-quality chocolate company. The South Bend Chocolate Company got its start in 1991 beginning with three Notre Dame licensed chocolates called the Domer, the Rockne and Nuts for ND. Three years later it became incorporated and today has 16 company-owned stores in northern Indiana, franchise locations in Indiana, Michigan and Ohio, and produces over 500 different chocolates and sweets that are available in stores nationwide. Tarner also explains how his dinosaur passion began with his daughter, leading to 13 years of fossil work out West and ultimately a museum complex built on 11 land parcels over 10–15 years, including a COVID-era crisis where city support helped keep the vision alive. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Founding and Growth of the South Bend Chocolate Company - How Fossil Work out West Led to the Indiana Dinosaur Museum in South Bend - How Discipline, Character, Community and Leaps of Faith Intertwine Thank you to our partners: NCW J.C. Hart Company Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Visionary Cold Open 01:16 Guest Introduction: Mark Tarner, South Bend Chocolate Company & Indiana Dinosaur Museum 02:17 Small Town Roots 03:04 Basketball College Path 03:41 Learning Candy Trade 04:46 Notre Dame Licensed Chocolates 06:23 Leaving Dad Starting Brand 09:30 Early Grind No Paycheck 10:53 Entrepreneur Mindset Failure 11:55 First Customers Night Factory 13:11 Never Satisfied Work Life 17:51 First Factory Mall Boom 19:20 Reinvesting In South Bend 20:50 Adapting To Retail Shifts 22:39 Branding Lessons Private Label 23:57 Dinosaur Obsession Begins 25:43 Camp Possible Commitment 27:17 Explorers Club Community 27:29 Midwest Obsession Ethic 28:11 Vision For The Campus 30:41 Risk And Modest Living 31:47 Marriage And Mission 34:00 COVID Crisis City Support 36:32 Reinventing The Museum 38:07 Conviction Over Passion 39:51 Digging Out West 42:13 Discipline And Character 43:41 Legacy And Indiana Pride 45:12 Leap Of Faith Advice 45:51 State Fair Branding Stories 47:02 Chocolate Cherry Taste Test 48:44 Willy Wonka Morality 53:30 Indiana Hidden Gems Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• He Made a List of Things That Rule… And It Went Viral | Evan Ochs, Stuff That Rules 12.06.2026 56min

  On today's show I sat down with Indiana-based creator Evan Ochs, founder of "Stuff That Rules," a short-form series of daily videos sharing five overlooked joys as a practical gratitude habit. Ochs explains how the idea began with journaling after a weeknight beer, then evolved from early TikTok experiments into a reposted list video that unexpectedly went viral, leading him to double down on the consistent format filmed from his bedroom closet for audio and visual consistency. We discuss men's mental health, audience DMs about tough times and sobriety, the challenge of monetizing authentically, and Ochs' first brand deal with Mugsy Jeans. He also shares plans for "jobs that rule" and "places that rule," reflects on living in LA and Chicago, highlights Indiana's southern hills and Ferdinand's St. Benedict's Brew Works, and closes with advice to start posting and building your own list. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Idea Behind Stuff That Rules - Challenges of Monetizing for Creators - Future Plans for Jobs That Rule and Places That Rule Thank you to our partners: Duke Homes Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance Check out these great clips from the show: 01:34 Guest Introduction: Evan Ochs, Stuff That Rules 02:36 How Stuff That Rules Started 03:55 First Viral Breakthrough 07:01 The Closet Setup 08:55 Hopeful Internet and Community 11:30 Creative Process and Day Job 13:02 Monetizing Without Selling Out 16:07 Lessons for New Creators 17:56 Indiana Roots and Local Love 21:23 Impact on Viewers 22:49 New Series Ideas Ahead 27:31 Riffing on Things That Rule 30:05 Hidden Gems and Monastery Brewery 31:41 Monastery Road Trip 32:23 Shrine Awe Moment 32:59 Art Museum Wonder 33:38 Road Trip Snacks 34:33 School Lunch Classics 35:39 Recess Glory Days 36:07 Fictional Bars Talk 36:35 Satisfying Sounds 37:25 Santa Letters Magic 39:55 Viral Topics Breakdown 41:14 Gratitude Mindset Shift 43:10 Bracket Winner Debate 44:19 Books And Phone Balance 46:02 Doing Things Solo 48:08 Collabs And Celeb DMs 50:38 Why Indiana Home 53:06 Hidden Gem Brewery 53:45 Final Shoutouts Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• Why Dads Need to Show Up for More Than Games | Kelin Mark Sr. and Brother Thomas X-Williams, The Dad Difference 10.06.2026 1h 13min

  On today's show I sat down with Indiana educators and fathers Kelin Mark Sr. and Brother Thomas X-Williams about engaging dads in schools through their DADS Program (Dedication, Academics, Athletics, Discipline, Sacrifice) and "The Dad Difference." They describe how Mark's experience of not being contacted after his son was injured sparked a focus on making schools more welcoming to fathers beyond athletics, and how they began with workshops on changing school culture by increasing father involvement. They share personal reflections on their own fathers, discuss practical strategies like emailing teachers, learning school policies, knowing key staff, and balancing hands-on support with student independence.  They also cite statistics linking active fathers to higher rates of wealth and confidence in children and explain how schools can book their 90-minute workshops. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The DADS Program and "The Dad Difference" - Workshops to Help Schools Become More Welcoming to Fathers - Strategies for Fathers to Be Involved Thank you to our partners: Cowpokes Work & Western Barkeep Vodka Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 What Education Really Means 01:32 Meet the DADS Founders 02:31 How The Dad Difference Started 04:53 Workshops and School Culture 07:22 Lessons From Their Fathers 13:21 Why Schools Miss Dads 15:56 Meeting Dads Where They Are 17:32 DADS Philosophy and Outcomes 22:13 Building the DADS Curriculum 25:12 Simple Habits That Show You Care 33:24 Implementing DADS in Schools 35:41 Questions Every Dad Should Ask 43:33 Avoiding Helicopter Parenting 44:09 Coaching From Stands 44:43 Hands On To Hands Off 46:03 Accountability Questions 48:11 Skills Beyond School 48:54 Dads In The Building 49:53 Confidence With Teachers 52:51 Dad Difference Vision 56:50 Indiana Rapid Fire 01:00:05 Fictional Dad Role Models 01:02:11 Being A Village Dad 01:05:44 Indiana Memories And Gems Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• Inside One of America's Best Small Towns | Chris Cail, Mayor of Tell City 08.06.2026 53min

  Today's show is part of our Mayor's Megaphone series, as I sat down with Tell City Mayor Chris Cail, who shares why Tell City is attracting residents, city investments, and more. Cail discusses Tell City's Swiss Colonization Society origins and founding in 1858, its planned wide streets and riverfront location, and legacy industries like Tell City Chair and woodworking, plus today's major employers such as Waupaca Foundry. Cail shares his path from city council to mayor, which he won by two votes in 2019, and priorities focused on quality of life, housing growth, and civic pride, including a renovated pool, new sports complex, senior center, park upgrades, and a new multi-use River Road walking and biking trail that connects to the city's existing riverwalk. Since becoming mayor, Tell City has grown from about 7,200 to roughly 7,500 residents. It has low electric rates via a city-owned utility, and was ranked the best small city to work remotely due to affordability, housing, and high-speed fiber internet. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Tell City's Origins and Legacy Industries - Mayor Cail's Priorities to Improve Quality of Life - Tell City's Secret to Population Growth Thank you to our partners: Make My Move Check out these great clips from the show: 00:27 Welcome to Get IN 01:49 Tell City History Buff 02:35 Schweizer Fest Origins 03:40 Founding a Planned City 04:49 Industry Then and Now 05:49 Path to the Mayor's Office 07:56 Early Initiatives and COVID 09:41 Quality of Life Projects 10:41 Housing Boom and Growth 12:18 Small Town Community Bonds 13:30 Make My Move Hospitality 16:57 Affordability and Utilities 19:04 Getting Developers Onboard 20:04 Keeping Young Talent Home 21:19 Civic Pride and Identity 23:28 Things to Do and River Life 25:58 Pitching Tell City to Big Cities 27:31 Advice for Other Leaders 28:52 Pride of Place 30:03 Indiana Regions 30:51 Remote Work Advantage 33:00 Main Street Staples 34:24 Career Paths 36:25 Mayor as Entrepreneur 37:02 Future Development Plans 39:25 Getting Things Done 40:02 Schweizer Fest Spotlight 41:32 Tell City Origins 42:35 Chair Capital Legacy 44:26 Proudest Projects 46:13 Weekend in Tell City 49:38 Indiana Rapid Fire 51:35 Indy 500 Memory 52:46 Final Pitch and Outro Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• Why People Are Betting on This Midwest City | Ron Oler, Mayor of Richmond 05.06.2026 47min

  Today's show is another special episode in our Mayor's Megaphone series, as I sat down with Richmond Mayor Ron Oler, who covers Richmond's growth and what makes it a great place to live. Mayor Oler highlights Richmond's deep history like its location on the National Road, Underground Railroad connections tied to Quaker roots and Earlham College, and the Gennett Studio legacy as the birthplace of recorded jazz, including Hoagy Carmichael recording "Stardust." He outlines Richmond's economic strengths in manufacturing, plastics, packaging, life sciences, and major pet food producers, alongside arts assets like the Richmond Art Museum and symphony. Our conversation also focuses on downtown revitalization and housing initiatives, plus quality-of-life amenities such as parks, trails, events, and proximity to Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Dayton. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The History of Richmond, Indiana - Why Mayor Oler Became Mayor - What Makes Richmond a Great Place to Live Thank you to our partners: Make My Move Check out these great clips from the show: 01:41 Richmond Roots and Founding 03:02 Arts and Industry Legacy 04:42 Gennett Studio Story 07:59 Underground Railroad History 09:26 Downtown Revival and Housing 14:36 Parks Food and Family Life 16:40 Affordability and Employers 20:35 Why He Became Mayor 22:23 Mummies and Local Museums 24:46 Colleges and Hidden Gems 26:55 Richmond Industry Snapshot 27:44 Logistics and Connectivity 28:07 Local Food Favorites 28:49 Districts and Riverfront Plans 30:09 Pitching Richmond to Newcomers 31:56 Weekend Itinerary Ideas 34:05 Future Vision and Safety 35:11 Collaboration for Growth 37:50 Statehouse Impact and Taxes 41:58 Community Pride and Cleanup 42:55 Indiana Memories and Hidden Gem 45:02 Hoosiers to Watch Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• From Movie Reviews to Millions of Views | Tom "Popcorn With Tom" Biddle, Content Creator 03.06.2026 47min

  On today's show I sat down with social media content creator Thomas Biddle (@popcornwithtom) to discuss his rapidly growing social presence after starting in October 2025, evolving from movie rankings to "high T" list-style videos and monetizing through brand deals. Biddle shares his routine of posting up to five times daily for months without missing a day, learning through analytics, and advice on consistency, experimenting, and not fearing early failures. He explains his collaboration with fellow content creator Young Mantis, leveraging his Luka Dončić resemblance, and escalating the bit from pickup runs to Indianapolis stunts and ultimately courtside seats at Lakers games, including a Kalshi-backed campaign that placed them in extremely expensive seats during the NBA playoffs and drew major media clips. Biddle also discusses future goals like long-form YouTube content, kindness-focused videos, and Indiana favorites like the Indy 500 and The Deck in Fort Wayne. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Popcorn With Tom's Social Media Strategy - Social Collaborations and Brand Deals - The Content Creator Grind Thank you to our partners: ClusterTruck (Use code GETIN at checkout for $5 off orders of $25 or more) Greek's Pizzeria Check out these great clips from the show: 01:23 Guest Introduction: Tom "Popcorn With Tom" Biddle, Content Creator 03:02 First Posts Origins 04:32 High T Movies Breakout 05:00 College Jobs Monetize 06:04 First Brand Deals 10:03 Posting Grind Strategy 12:34 Avoid One Trick Pony 14:57 Creator Advice Mindset 17:28 Meeting Mantis Collabs 18:13 Luka LeBron Bit Begins 20:25 LA Courtside Gamble 24:05 Kalshi Six-Figure Seats 25:17 Family Support and Longevity 27:07 Long-form Dreams and Editing 29:21 Kindness Content Over Pranks 31:53 Vision Casting the Next Decade 35:21 Creator Grind and Analytics 36:27 Courtside Lakers Rules and Security 39:10 Players Reactions and Future Stunts 42:02 Indiana Pride and Indy 500 Plans 44:53 Hidden Gem and Hoosier Shoutout 46:51 Wrap Up and Where to Follow Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• How an 87-Year-Old Midwest Company Keeps Reinventing Itself | Jack Walker, Walker 01.06.2026 1h 2min

  On today's show I sat down with Jack Walker, fourth-generation leader and president of Walker, an Indianapolis-based experience management consulting firm. It was founded as Walker Research in 1939 by Dorothy "Tommy" Walker and is now 87 years old. Jack shares the company's origins of door-to-door interviews about radio ads and grocery stocking, its expansion after his great-grandfather's sudden death, and innovations like the nation's first consumer test kitchen, later evolving through phone surveys, web surveys, and today's AI-driven customer intelligence. Walker, a platinum Qualtrics consulting partner named Qualtrics' 2026 North American Partner of the Year, helps organizations connect customer, employee, and patient feedback to decisions by unifying experience, operational, and behavioral data and shifting from dashboards to natural insights. Jack discusses closing the loop with customers, examples linking NPS and support contact to churn risk, and concerns about agentic AI harming experience. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Founding of Walker Research and Evolution to Walker - AI Risks and Rewards With Customer Research Check out these great clips from the show: 00:43 Guest Introduction: Jack Walker, Walker 01:52 Walker Research Origins 02:12 Dorothy Walker Story 04:06 Going All In 04:31 Test Kitchen Breakthrough 08:34 From Phone to Web 10:29 Shift to Experience 11:48 Modern Data Sources 13:58 B2B Churn Insight 17:56 Qualtrics Explained 20:06 Smarter Feedback Moments 21:55 Small Business Feedback 24:12 Close the Loop 28:16 Beyond Surveys Data 29:43 Unifying Data Systems 31:58 Dashboards to Chatbots 33:12 AI Risks and Opportunity 34:10 Walker Brand Refresh 35:06 Agentic CX Risks 36:32 Winning After Mistakes 38:04 Fourth Gen Stewardship 40:10 Earning It Elsewhere 42:25 Listener Survey Hack 43:37 Big Brothers Big Sisters 48:11 Why Indiana Home 50:11 Wild Data Stories 52:46 Future of Surveys 54:14 Family Leadership Traits 57:50 Indy 500 Month of May 59:48 Hidden Gem Syracuse 01:01:03 Hoosier to Watch Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• We Flew a Stranger to the Indy 500 29.05.2026 16min

  Today's episode was recorded on Carb Day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where I sat down with James Ward, a filmmaker from London who Get Indiana flew 4,000 miles for his first-ever Indy 500. I explain how the "fly a stranger to the Indy 500" idea came about, James explains why he said yes despite thinking it could be a scam, and we discuss how we both tried to ensure the other wasn't dangerous. James shares his first impressions of Indiana hospitality, trying chicken tenders for breakfast and a pork tenderloin sandwich within hours of his arrival, running the Monon Trail, and comparisons of Indianapolis to New York and London. Carb Day was James' first full day in Indiana, and the best of the weekend is yet to come. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I highlight major Indiana events and interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - James' Journey from the UK to Indiana - First Indiana Experiences and Hoosier Hospitality - Indianapolis vs. New York and London Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Basement Joke 00:29 Guest Introduction: James Ward 01:41 How the Invite Happened 03:02 Nate's Big Idea 04:27 Scam Vibes and Trust 06:11 First Impressions of Indiana 07:48 Weekend Expectations 11:03 Why James Took the Risk 12:38 Staying With Strangers 13:57 Drivers Start Your Engines 15:00 YouTube Video Plug Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• Former LEGOLAND Execs were recruited for a $50M Midwest Resort | Sean "Mouse" Howard, SKYLAKE Adventures 27.05.2026 1h 4min

  On today's show I jumped into the deep end with Sean "Mouse" Howard, co-founder of SKYLAKE Adventures, a new year-round destination opening in Sheridan near US-31 and Grand Park on June 4. The SKYLAKE concept was inspired by France Park in Logansport and refined through visits to Lake Arvesta Farms and Land of Natura in Wisconsin Dells, emphasizing fun with no lines. The project is funded by local investors with no bank debt, and four former LEGOLAND executives were recruited to lead operations. Wave one focuses on a six-acre human-made lake with white sand, Wibit inflatables, a 40-foot X Tower with slides, cabanas, and an adult-only "South Beach." Future plans include a tubing hill, ropes course, and mini golf. Howard also shares his upbringing in Princeton, track scholarship to Butler, and a 22-year medical device sales career that led him to entrepreneurship. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Inspiration of SKYLAKE Adventures - Wave One Highlights at SKYLAKE Adventures - Future Plans at SKYLAKE Adventures Thank you to our partners: Visit Wabash County Check out these great clips from the show: 01:23 Guest Introduction: Sean "Mouse" Howard, SKYLAKE Adventures 02:27 Small Town to Butler 03:36 Track Dreams and Setbacks 06:31 Mom's Tough Love Lesson 09:14 From Med Device to Real Estate 14:04 Why Build SKYLAKE 16:36 France Park Lightbulb 18:56 What SKYLAKE Includes 23:00 Scale and Construction Numbers 24:20 Market Research and No Lines 28:00 Year-Round Expansion Plans 32:57 Tubing Hill and Night Vibes 34:54 Funding The Vision 35:21 Landing Prime Highway 31 37:09 Winning Over Neighbors 38:48 Recruiting LEGOLAND Leaders 41:44 Investor Momentum No Debt 42:56 Wave One Water Attractions 45:32 Tickets And Access Plans 46:13 Legacy And Conviction 52:35 Grand Park Partnership 56:39 Why Indiana Feels Like Home 57:18 Iconic Vacation Memories 59:38 Hidden Gems And Wrap Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• How Indiana Farmers Feed the World | David Hardin, Hardin Farms 25.05.2026 55min

  On today's show I sat down with David Hardin of Danville, Indiana, a sixth-generation hog farmer whose family has farmed the Hendricks/Marion County line since 1827. Hardin explains the newly renovated barn at Hardin Farms and early piglet care (warm temps, sanitation, weaning at 3–4 weeks and ~12–15 pounds), daily health checks, and judicious antibiotic use. We discuss farming economics as "price takers," levers like efficiency and differentiation, and how pigs are fed mostly Indiana corn and soybeans through multiple ration changes to reach ~300 pounds in about five months before shipping to processors such as Tyson, Indiana Packers, and JBS Swift, with pork also exported to places like Japan and Mexico. Hardin describes a farmer's day, from listening to markets, watching the weather, animal care, repairs, and long field hours, plus regenerative practices like reduced tillage and cover crops, integrating hog manure as fertilizer, and continuing to learn through Purdue and farm media. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Economics of Hog Farming and Best Practices - A Day in the Life of a Hog Farmer Thank you to our partners: Elements Financial Check out these great clips from the show: 01:44 Guest Introduction: David Hardin, Hardin Farms 02:15 Inside The Farm Shop 03:28 New Piglets Barn Tour 04:59 Sanitation And Biosecurity 06:06 Coming Back To Farm 07:17 Commodity Markets Explained 09:39 Levers To Stay Profitable 12:11 Hog Life Cycle Basics 12:35 Breeding And Gestation 15:43 Weaning And Arrival Here 16:58 Daily Health Checks 17:56 Antibiotics And Superbugs 18:39 Family Farms Not PE 20:47 Responsibility And Balance 21:51 Feed And Growth Efficiency 25:06 Processors Brands Exports 27:25 Buying Indiana Pork 27:46 Is There Wagyu Pork 29:01 Misconceptions About Farmers 29:36 A Day On The Farm 30:01 Markets Weather And Livestock 33:30 Long Hours And No Off Days 35:19 Are Farmers Actually Rich 36:39 Starting A Farm Today 40:30 Where Indiana Raises Pigs 41:56 Regenerative Agriculture Explained 45:30 Crops Manure And Recycling 46:31 How Farmers Keep Learning 48:17 Rapid Fire Indiana Favorites 53:37 Final Thanks And Surprise Gift Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.
• How the Indy 500 Helped Launch Get Indiana 22.05.2026 58min

  On today's show Cheyne and I preview Carb Day and the Indy 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, including the third year of the Get Indiana Tailgate in Turn 3 and the origin of "the Rig," which led to the launch of Get Indiana. I share tailgate highlights like sponsor partnerships, DJs, and the prize wheel with a $2,000 winner, and us hosting James Ward, a first-time Indiana visitor traveling nearly 4,000 miles from the UK for the Indy 500. Mike Nichols of Group 1001/Gainbridge then joins to discuss Indy 500 presenting-sponsor responsibilities, perks like pagoda hospitality, IndyCar's growth with FOX, Gainbridge's investment in women's sports, and the Gainbridge Assist grants program, plus a fan-zone reflex activation. The show ends with some Indy 500 facts, trivia on Indy 500 winners in my lifetime, and 2026 Indy 500 winner picks. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I highlight major Indiana events and interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The History of "the Rig" - Get Indiana Tailgate Highlights in Turn 3 - Gainbridge's Indy 500 Presenting Sponsorship Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Carb Day Preview 00:21 Indy 500 Episode Roadmap 01:27 Origin Story of the Rig 03:02 Buying and Rebuilding the Truck 05:15 First Tailgate Success 07:22 Year Three Bigger Plans 08:05 Prize Wheel and Cash Giveaway 10:01 Flying in a UK First Timer 13:03 How to Find the Tailgate 13:52 Mike Nichols Interview Begins 14:37 Caitlin Clark Grand Marshal 16:02 Why Gainbridge Backs Womens Sports 17:40 What Gainbridge Actually Is 19:29 Why Sponsor the Indy 500 22:00 Top Perks and Pagoda Suite 23:55 FOX Deal and IndyCar Growth 26:03 Renewal and Series Health 27:28 Gainbridge Assist Grants 31:19 Fan Zone Reflex Activation 32:35 Andretti Drivers and Picks 34:03 First Indy 500 Impressions 35:48 F1 Miami vs Indy 500 36:30 F1 Miami Activation 37:10 Celebrity Race Weekend 38:23 Gainbridge Indy 500 Plug 39:20 Sponsor Perks Breakdown 39:41 Indy 500 Fast Facts 43:36 Milk Tradition Explained 45:13 Winners Trivia Challenge 48:57 Picking Indy 500 Winners 55:33 Dark Horses Dinner Story Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.