The Midwest Flourish

How The NIIC Is Redefining Entrepreneurship: Insights with John McDonald | EP. 29

What does it really take to build a successful startup and why do so many fail? In this episode of The Midwest Flourish, host Rick Farrant sits down with John McDonald, President & CEO of the Northeast Indiana Innovation Community (NIIC), to unpack the realities of entrepreneurship. From the shift from “innovation center” to “innovation community,” John shares how building connections (not just companies) is the key to long-term success. He breaks down the three biggest reasons startups fail, explains why solving the right problem matters more than having a great idea, and highlights how economic downturns can actually spark innovation. You’ll also hear: - How NIIC supports founders from idea to growth - Why “loving the problem” beats loving your solution - The critical difference between users and buyers - Real-world startup mistakes (and how to avoid them) - Why new businesses (not small ones) drive job creation Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, business leader, or just curious about innovation in the Midwest, this episode is packed with practical insights and honest truths.

The Overlooked Link Between Tourism & Workforce Development w/ Tera Roughley - EP. 28

How does tourism actually impact economic and workforce development in small communities? In this episode of The Midwest Flourish, host Rick Farrant sits down with Tera Roughley, Executive Director of the Huntington County Visitor Bureau, to explore the powerful (and often misunderstood) role tourism plays in growing local economies. From attracting visitors to inspiring people to relocate, Tara shares how communities like Huntington County, Indiana are leveraging collaboration, events, arts, and local pride to drive momentum. Highlighted Topics - The real economic impact of tourism - Turning visitors into residents - Building a community identity (or not!) - The role of arts, events, and culture - Overcoming negative perceptions from within - Regional collaboration vs competition - Funding tourism through innkeeper taxes - Why locals are your best ambassadors Whether you're in economic development, tourism, or community leadership, this conversation offers practical insights on how to grow and promote your region. Learn more: https://marketingthemidwest.com

The Future of Tech in the Midwest with Matt Truty | EP. 27

In this episode of The Midwest Flourish, host Rick Farrant sits down with Matt Truty, co-founder and CEO of Fort Wayne-based BT Pro Solutions, to talk about what it really takes to build a modern tech company. They explore software consulting, product development, entrepreneurship through acquisition, and how AI is rapidly transforming the way software is built. Matt also shares his thoughts on the future of work, the risks AI creates for entry-level talent, and why human-centered companies will matter more than ever in the next wave of innovation.

Robert King on Adult Education, Workforce Ready Grants & Regional Growth in Indiana | EP. 26

There are major changes on the horizon for Indiana’s workforce system. In this episode of The Midwest Flourish, host Rick Farrant sits down with Rob King, Executive Director of the South Central Region 8 Workforce Board, to discuss the evolving future of workforce development across the state. Region 8 serves eight counties in south central Indiana, including Bloomington and the surrounding rural communities. Highlighted Topics: - What a workforce board actually does (and why most people misunderstand it) - How WorkOne centers connect job seekers to training and employers - The role of Vincennes University in supporting workforce services - How adult education providers help residents earn diplomas and certifications - Why Workforce Ready Grants are critical for high-demand careers like welding, HVAC, and advanced manufacturing - The growing impact of life sciences, tech, and microelectronics in the region - Why collaboration between workforce and economic development is essential - The proposed reduction of Indiana workforce regions from 12 to 8 — and what that could mean for southern Indiana Rob also shares his personal journey from the U.S. Air Force to workforce leadership and why helping people build better lives isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. If you care about economic growth, talent development, public policy, or the future of Indiana’s workforce, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Learn more about Midwest-focused economic conversations at marketingthemidwest.com.

Dr. Elizabeth Bushnell on Questa's Mission to Help Students Graduate College with Less Debt | EP. 25

What if cost wasn’t the barrier to higher education? In this episode of The Midwest Flourish, host Rick Farrant sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Bushnell, President & CEO of the Questa Education Foundation, to discuss how students across Northeast Indiana are accessing college, certifications, and career pathways, with less debt and more support. Since 1937, Questa has helped students pursue education beyond high school through innovative forgivable loan programs. Their model is simple but powerful: fund students now, forgive loans when they graduate and return to work in the region. Highlighted Topics: - Why college messaging needs to change - The truth about ROI and post-secondary education - How Questa addresses both financial and psychological barriers - The launch of the Compass Fund Finder and Questa Compass directory - How the regional Learn More, Earn More initiative is reshaping talent development Whether you’re a student, parent, employer, or community leader, this conversation offers practical insight into making education accessible and meaningful.