Behind the Region

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.

Ian Book - Notre Dame Football Standout- OSMC Athlete Partner - Director of Investor Relations Golden Legacy Partners

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113432/fan_mail/new] Today’s episode features a special guest with deep ties to both our region and the national stage—Ian Book. Many know Ian for his standout career at the University of Notre Dame, where he became one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in program history. But his story doesn’t stop on the field. We’ll dive into Ian’s journey from college football to the professional level, and how his experiences have shaped his work today with OSMC and Golden Legacy Partners. Along the way, we’ll talk about leadership, resilience, and the role athletes can play in strengthening regional communities. Whether you’re a sports fan, a business leader, or someone passionate about the South Bend region, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

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

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 people, stories, and ideas shaping our local economy and community. Today we’re joined by a guest who’s bringing a unique flavor—and a lot of passion—to the region’s food scene. Jesse Onate, owner of JC’s Coal Oven Pizza Co., has carved out a niche with his commitment to authentic coal-fired pizza and a dedication to quality that keeps customers coming back. In this episode, we’ll talk with Jesse about his journey into the restaurant industry, what inspired him to start JC’s Coal Oven Pizza Co., and the challenges and rewards of building a business in our region. We’ll also dive into what makes coal oven pizza so special, and how local entrepreneurs like Jesse are helping define the character and growth of the South Bend area.