Jesse Oñate - Owner of JC's Coal Oven Pizza in Granger

Mayor James Mueller - Mayor, City of South Bend

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113432/fan_mail/new]  Today, we're joined by South Bend Mayor James Mueller. Since taking office in 2020, Mayor Mueller has led efforts focused on economic development, neighborhood investment, public safety, and continued innovation across the city. We'll discuss the opportunities and challenges facing South Bend, the city's role in the region's growth, and what's ahead for residents, businesses, and community partners.

Brian Dodge - Vice President and General Manager of WSBT TV

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113432/fan_mail/new]  Today we’re joined by a leader in regional media and broadcasting, Brian Dodge, Vice President and General Manager of WSBT. With decades of experience in television, journalism, and community engagement, Brian has played a key role in keeping audiences informed while helping local media evolve in a rapidly changing landscape. From covering the stories that matter most to leading one of the region’s most recognizable stations, Brian brings a unique perspective on leadership, communication, and the future of local news. Today, we’ll talk about the changing media environment, the importance of trusted local journalism, community impact, and what it takes to lead in an industry that never stops moving.

Michelle Bryant - Managing Partner at Premier Planning Partners

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113432/fan_mail/new]  Today we’re joined by Michelle Bryant from Premier Planning Partners. Michelle brings a wealth of experience in financial planning, leadership, and helping individuals and businesses prepare for long-term success. In this episode, we’ll talk about financial confidence, planning for the future, and the important role strong businesses and smart leadership play in building a thriving region. Michelle also shares insights from her professional journey and what she’s seeing in today’s economic landscape.

Brian Pappas - Chancellor of Indiana University South Bend

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113432/fan_mail/new] Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce, where we explore the leaders, ideas, and innovations shaping our region’s future. Today, we’re joined by Brian Pappas, Chancellor of Indiana University South Bend. Chancellor Pappas has been a strong advocate for higher education, workforce development, and community partnerships across Northern Indiana. In this conversation, we’ll discuss the evolving role of regional universities, how IUSB is preparing students for today’s workforce, and the opportunities ahead for South Bend and the surrounding region.

Dee McDonald PHD - President of Bethel University

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113432/fan_mail/new] Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber where we explore the leaders, ideas, and institutions shaping the future of our region. Today we’re joined by Dee McDonald, president of Bethel University. In this conversation, we’ll talk about the evolving role of higher education in regional growth, how Bethel is preparing students for today’s workforce, and why collaboration between education, business, and community leaders matters more than ever. We’ll also hear Dee’s perspective on leadership, innovation, and what makes the South Bend region a place where students, employers, and families can thrive.