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

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.

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.