Julie on Leadership, Women’s Sports, and Community Impact at Pacers Sports & Entertainment

Project 44: Ten Years of Impact, Andrew’s Legacy, and a Full-Circle Return to Indianapolis

Larra reunites with Sam and Krissi to reflect on their connection through Andrew and the growth of Project 44, founded after Andrew’s 2016 passing to save lives through bone marrow transplants. Sam shares how grief shaped her life, including years in Indianapolis, moving to Texas, having two sons, and owning a CrossFit gym, while continuing to honor Andrew, including naming a son with Andrew as a middle name.  They discuss feeling close to Andrew at Hinkle Fieldhouse, through stories from others, and whenever Project 44 receives a donor match notification. Sam and Krissi describe Butler’s lasting support, Project 44’s national media exposure, and a “10 Years of Impact Drive to Save” campaign tied to multiple basketball tournaments in Indianapolis, aiming for a major collegiate registry event via in-person activations, merch, workplace drives, and a mail-in swab option. 00:00 Reunion And Origins 01:29 After Andrew Passed 03:01 Life Rebuilt In Texas 05:29 Feeling Andrew Close 07:02 Matches And Ripple Effects 09:00 Stories Of Kindness 11:24 Butler Way Support 16:18 Final Four Full Circle 18:49 10 Years Impact Campaign 22:17 Pride And Next Decade 22:38 Media Spotlight Momentum 23:22 Cultural Shift Mission 24:01 Partnerships And Privacy 26:21 Indy Classic Stories 27:32 Championship Weekend Activations 29:36 Merch Reveal And Giveaways 32:30 How To Join The Registry 34:49 Next Decade Vision 37:05 Normalizing Donation Process 38:20 Spirit Animal Octopus 40:58 Gratitude And Sign Off Discover More: https://project44.org/ [https://project44.org/]

Julie on Leadership, Women’s Sports, and Community Impact at Pacers Sports & Entertainment

Julie discusses how her lifelong passion for basketball led to an unplanned but enduring career in sports, including 25 years in college athletics, roles at the NCAA, and leadership as Horizon League commissioner before joining Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PSNE) in Indianapolis after being recruited by CEO Mel Raines.  She reflects on growing opportunities for women in sports leadership, Indianapolis’ 2050 vision to become the epicenter of sport and the capital of women’s sports, and the importance of legacy initiatives like the WNBA All-Star–inspired We Are NEXT leadership cohort and the Fever Confidence program for high school girls.  Julie recounts pivotal mentorship moments, Indianapolis’ collaborative hosting of the 2021 March Madness bubble, and PSNE community strategies including Drive and Dish with Gleaners, court resurfacing, youth basketball camps, accessible ticketing, and the new Fever license plate supporting the Fever Fund. 00:00 Welcome and Career Origins 02:59 From College Sports to Pacers 04:30 Women Leading in Indy 07:25 Event Legacy and We Are Next 10:08 Mentors and Pivotal Breaks 13:26 Indy Big Moments and 2050 Vision 18:06 PSNE Community Strategy 20:34 Programs Building Confidence 23:40 Ownership and Being a Fan 26:56 Accessible Tickets and Growing Fans 29:56 Making Causes Stick 34:35 Spirit Animal Elephant 37:00 Whats Next and Closing Discover More: https://project44.org/ [https://project44.org/] Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ [https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/] Facebook: Project 44 [https://www.facebook.com/JoinProject44/]

The Legacy of Butler University’s Bulldog Mascot: Michael's Journey from Higher Ed to IndyCar

In this episode, Michael Kaltenmark, a Butler University graduate, shares the impact of his two-decade career at Butler, including his pivotal role in advancing the live mascot program and the creation of Project 44. He discusses the deeper connections and lifelong relationships he formed at Butler, which spurred his professional growth.  Michael's narrative also includes his personal journey through a kidney transplant, highlighting the profound support from the Butler community. Furthermore, he delves into his significant contributions towards boosting the visibility and engagement of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS).  Throughout, Michael emphasizes the values of teamwork and service rooted in the Butler Way and details ongoing efforts to keep Indianapolis an attractive destination for major sporting events. The episode encapsulates the intertwining of sports, personal challenges, and community spirit. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 01:57 Michael's Journey at Butler University 04:19 The Birth of the Live Mascot Program 11:16 The Impact of Social Media and Personal Challenges 16:49 Project 44 and the Culture of Yes 25:25 Carrying Forward a Legacy 25:52 The Butler Way: A Philosophy for Life 27:17 Unforeseen Opportunities and Experiences 28:38 Achieving Milestones at IMS 32:54 Maintaining Year-Round Relevance 38:35 Indianapolis: A City of Sports and Community 44:08 The Spirit of the Bulldog 46:25 Celebrating 10 Years of Project 44 Discover More: ⁠https://project44.org/⁠ [https://project44.org/] Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/⁠ [https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/] Facebook: ⁠Project 44⁠ [https://www.facebook.com/JoinProject44/]

Overcoming Leukemia: William Yank's Journey of Hope and Resilience

In this inspiring conversation, leukemia survivor William Yank shares his remarkable journey from his initial diagnosis during college to his present-day remission.  He details the challenges and treatments he faced, including CAR T-cell therapy and a stem cell transplant from his sister. William credits his optimism and resilience to his strong support system and acceptance of reality, supported by therapy.  Reflecting on his lowest and highest points, he highlights the role of community and hope in his battle against cancer. William discusses his advocacy work with organizations like the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and his evolving career in public speaking.  Emphasizing the power of hope and action, he expresses his passion for inspiring young adults to find and give hope. William's story underscores the importance of bone marrow and stem cell transplants, highlighting the impact of Project 44. Join William as he continues to share his message of hope and resilience, aiming to create a meaningful impact on others. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:20 William's Leukemia Journey Begins 01:36 Diagnosis and Initial Treatment 03:00 Relapses and Advanced Treatments 03:39 Finding Strength and Support 04:51 Highs and Lows of the Journey 06:56 The Second Relapse 07:54 Stem Cell Transplant Process 14:00 Sharing the Journey on Social Media 16:22 Public Speaking and Advocacy 21:33 Future Goals and Vision 27:20 Commemorating Milestones 28:21 Conclusion and Farewell Discover More: https://project44.org/ [https://project44.org/] Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ [https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/] Facebook: Project 44 [https://www.facebook.com/JoinProject44/]

Championing Mental Health: Kicking the Stigma with Kalen Jackson

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Finding 44 was honored to talk with one of the most prominent champions of mental health, Colts owner and vice-chair, Kalen Jackson. This heartfelt and meaningful conversation centers around the journey and impact of the 'Kicking the Stigma' initiative. Kalen shares the significant strides made in mental health awareness, the importance of open conversations, and her personal experiences with anxiety. The discussion highlights the cultural shift in how mental health is perceived, the need for continued efforts, and the initiative's strategic donations and collaborations.  Kalen emphasizes the role of vulnerability and community support in breaking the silence surrounding mental health issues, along with the crucial role of proactive measures in addressing these challenges. Learn more at https://kickingthestigma.org/ 00:00 Introduction and Mission of Kicking the Stigma 02:07 Personal Struggles and Family Experiences 04:44 Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health Initiatives 08:11 National Campaign and Public Response 11:23 Mental Health in Sports and the NFL 23:29 Achievements and Future Goals 29:56 Community Involvement and Personal Stories 40:59 Conclusion and Call to Action Discover More: https://project44.org/ [https://project44.org/] Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ [https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/] Facebook: Project 44 [https://www.facebook.com/JoinProject44/]