Business & Beyond with Gerry Dick

The Month of May in Indianapolis is about more than the race. In this episode, Gerry Dick sits down with 500 Festival CEO Dave Neff to talk about the festival’s evolving role as an economic, cultural, and charitable force for Indianapolis and Indiana. The conversation explores the relationship between the festival, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the community and the challenges and opportunities facing large-scale events in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape. He also shares insights from his previous role leading NIL initiatives at Purdue University, offering a candid look at the evolving business of college athletics. From racing tradition to the transformation of college athletics, this episode examines two uniquely American institutions navigating change while trying to preserve what makes them special.

At a time when many small colleges are facing enrollment declines and financial pressure, Taylor University is charting a different course.  In this episode, Taylor’s 18th president, Dr. Michael Lindsay, joins us to talk about the remarkable momentum behind the Upland, Indiana-based Christian liberal arts university. Over the past five years, Taylor has grown enrollment by 45%, while attracting an incoming class with an average GPA of 3.9. What’s behind the momentum? Lindsay points to a clear mission, strong culture, and distinctive traditions. But the story goes beyond campus. We explore Taylor’s ambitious $500 million fundraising campaign and “Main Street Mile,” a $100 million initiative designed to transform Upland with new housing, mixed-use development, and a boutique hotel. It’s a conversation about leadership, strategy, and how one small university may be offering a big lesson for the future of higher education.

Pediatrician-turned-entrepreneur Dr. Manasa Mantravadi is reshaping the way kids eat—literally. Dr. Mantravadi’s colorful line of stainless-steel tableware is designed as a safer alternative to widely used plastic products. Inspired in part by her upbringing in India where stainless-steel dinnerware is a household staple, Dr. Mantravadi has grown Ahimsa into a fast-scaling consumer brand now carried by major retailers like Target. Her products are also making their way into school districts across the country. In this conversation, she shares the story behind her entrepreneurial leap, the realities of startup life—the setbacks, the momentum swings, and the discipline required to scale—and offers insight into where she sees the company heading next.

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Mittman, the CEO of Bosma Enterprises— one of the largest nonprofit organizations providing employment, training, and rehabilitation services for people who are blind or visually impaired in the Midwest. Mittman shares his deeply personal journey, including losing his vision while serving on active duty in Iraq, and how that life-altering moment shaped his leadership and purpose. Today, he’s leading an organization that reaches all 92 counties in Indiana, providing critical services ranging from job training and employment to rehabilitation and independence support. It’s an inspiring and insightful discussion about overcoming challenges, building opportunity, and seeing potential in a whole new way.

For nearly 60 years, Damar Services has been a lifeline for families navigating complex developmental and behavioral challenges. In this episode, CEO Jim Dalton shares a candid look at the realities facing families of children with severe autism, the emotional and financial toll, and the critical role Damar plays in providing stability, treatment, and dignity. He also discusses a groundbreaking, AI-assisted technology developed and patented by Damar that could reshape the future of caregiving—particularly in addressing one of the industry’s biggest challenges: workforce. It’s a powerful conversation about compassion, innovation, and what it takes to meet some of society’s most urgent needs.

Indiana basketball history takes center stage in this special edition of Business & Beyond, featuring conversations with some of the most influential names in Hoosier hoops. Indiana Pacers co-owner Steve Simon reflects on growing up in Indianapolis, helping keep the franchise from leaving in the early 1980s, and how his bond with the Midwest has only grown after years on the West Coast. Purdue coach Matt Painter shares the blunt recruiting pitch from Gene Keady that shaped his philosophy, and explains why honesty still defines how he leads players. WNBA legend Tamika Catchings and former Indiana women’s basketball coach Lin Dunn discuss the rapid rise of the women’s game, from record Final Four audiences to the Caitlin Clark effect and the WNBA’s ambitions for major expansion. Don Fischer, the longtime voice of Indiana Hoosiers football and basketball, recounts memorable stories from his years alongside Bob Knight, including a live radio show disrupted by a shotgun barrel hitting the floor. Retired NCAA official Bo Boroski reflects on the emotion of earning a Final Four assignment and what it was like officiating inside the NBA bubble during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Marion County's 2025 Community Health Assessment is out, and it reveals some troubling trends. Like one in four residents reporting depression and nearly one in five experiencing anxiety, while suicide rates have climbed 10 percent since 2018. The report also highlights a surprising but critical factor affecting community well-being: housing stability. In this episode, Dr. Virginia Caine, the director and chief medical officer of the Marion County Public Health Department, weighs in on the findings and explains why these issues extend far beyond healthcare, influencing workforce, economic growth, and the long-term vitality of the region.

The big business of college sports is getting bigger than ever, and one economist is putting real numbers on the table. Ryan Brewer, an associate professor of finance at Indiana University Columbus, joins the podcast to talk about his groundbreaking work valuing college football and basketball programs. His research is gaining national attention in places like The Wall Street Journal as the financial stakes in college athletics surge. Brewer also weighs in on the new economic realities of the WNBA. It’s a fascinating conversation about the business of sports—and the numbers behind dramatic transformation.

In this episode, Dr. Rob Pepper talks about the state of higher education and why he believes small, faith-based schools like Huntington University still play an important role. We also explore the school’s bold move into areas like agriculture and digital media and yes, we talk about having some fun with the name Dr. Pepper! It’s a conversation about leadership and the future of a small university with big ambitions.

For nearly four decades, Cindy Hoye has been a driving force behind one of Indiana’s most beloved institutions: the Indiana State Fair and the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Hoye joined the Fairgrounds staff in 1988 as marketing director and became executive director of the Indiana State Fair Commission in 2002. During her tenure, she led unprecedented growth and transformation, including more than $250 million in new buildings and improvements. In this conversation, she reflects on the milestones, challenges and deeply personal connections that have shaped her career. A thoughtful look back at a remarkable career—and the legacy of a leader who helped transform one of Indiana’s most treasured traditions.

For episode 100, we begin a two-part Business & Beyond podcast with the one and only Dan Dakich. From his first recruiting trip to IU to playing for Bob Knight to his career as a firebrand media personality, this Gary native has lots of stories to tell. And he tells them with the passion, and humor, you’ve come to expect from the guy who shut down Michael Jordan.

From Feb. 22, 2022: From an Italian refugee camp to the pinnacle of motorsports, Mario Andretti has led a life of excitement and accomplishment.  And his need for speed started at a very young age. In this episode, the only man to win the Indy 500, Daytona 500 and Formula One World Championship opens up about immigrating to the United States, his love for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and a movie that started it all.

In this episode, Gerry sits down with John Fernandez, the CEO of Amplify Bloomington—a bold new public-private partnership designed to transform the region’s economic future. The former Bloomington Mayor shares the vision behind the initiative and why this moment is different from past efforts. It’s a conversation about place, purpose, and what it takes to reimagine a community’s future.

In this episode, longtime Sporting News columnist and Big Ten Network analyst Mike DeCourcy joins Gerry to break down how IU pulled off one of the most unlikely title runs in modern college football history. He also weighs in on the seismic shifts reshaping college athletics and if this new business model is sustainable. With decades of national perspective, DeCourcy offers insight, context, and clarity on where the college game is headed. And, oh yes, he talks some hoops, too.

From opera houses to roaring arenas, Jim Cornelison’s voice has become part of the soundtrack of American sports. “The Anthem Singer” first captured hearts with his powerful rendition of the National Anthem at Chicago Blackhawks games, but his powerful baritone can also be heard in some of the world’s most iconic venues, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In this episode, Jim sits down with Gerry Dick and opens up about what it takes to deliver when the lights are brightest and why singing “Back Home Again in Indiana” carries special meaning. It’s a powerful conversation about passion, preparation, and the voice behind some unforgettable moments.

Eric Tobias has built companies, backed founders, and helped shape one of the Midwest’s most influential startup ecosystems—but his latest venture hits much closer to the heart. In this episode, the Indianapolis serial entrepreneur takes us through his remarkable innovation journey in a conversation that goes far beyond spreadsheets and software. Eric opens up about his lifelong love of music—and how that passion led him and a group of partners to purchase the iconic Vogue Theatre. It’s a wide-ranging and inspiring look at what happens when entrepreneurship meets passion, and how one founder is working to ensure that both startups and stages in Indianapolis continue to shine.

Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard joins Gerry Dick for a candid and wide-ranging conversation centered on his new book, Urban Republican Mayor: My Story. The two-term Republican reflects on the defining moments of his tenure—from major infrastructure investments and a Super Bowl to reshaping the city’s quality of life through projects like the Cultural Trail. He also speaks openly about the political and cultural challenges of leading a growing urban city as a Republican, including the controversial RFRA debate that divided Indiana and drew national attention. It’s an honest look at leadership, legacy, and the evolving politics of urban America—told by a mayor who helped put Indianapolis on the global stage.

A special edition of the Business and Beyond podcast presented by PNC looks back at the Bob and Tom Show by hitting play on memorable clips and rewinding through the stories behind them. Host Gary Dick revisits highlights with Tom Griswold and features conversations with Bob Kevoian, Kristi Lee, Jimmy “Mad Dog” Matis, Pat Carlini and Mark Patrick. Hear how Bob and Tom’s chemistry took shape, how the cast and characters found their fit, and how the show’s comedy, bits and voices grew alongside Indianapolis. Along the way: Mark Patrick’s impressions, behind the scenes writing routines, the early studio days, and stories tied to the Colts, Peyton Manning and a surprise spin at the Speedway with Al Unser Jr. Subscribe to Business & Beyond with Gerry Dick - https://apple.co/3La5uJn Episodes with the BOB & TOM Show cast: Tom Griswold on the History of the BOB & TOM Show - https://apple.co/49PhMju Bob Kevoian: Radio Legend on Cruise Control - https://apple.co/3Nggg19 Kristi Lee: When Hard Work Meets Opportunity - https://apple.co/4sAXMsq Mark Patrick: Born to Entertain - https://apple.co/4svYwPH Jimmy Mad Dog Matis: Right Place, Right Time with the Right Stuff - https://apple.co/45z7mCc Pat Carlini: From Buckeye to Hoosier, a Media Trailblazer - https://apple.co/4suyjRj The BOB & TOM Show podcast - https://apple.co/4jDtzVA

In this episode, radio legend Tom Griswold joins Gerry for a wide-ranging and revealing conversation about one of the most enduring success stories in American radio. The long- time host of The Bob & Tom Show takes listeners back to the very beginning—his first meeting with co-host Bob Kevoian in a Michigan bar---and how a chemistry that couldn’t be scripted turned into decades of laughter and loyalty. It’s an insightful, funny, and thoughtful look at the work ethic, creativity, and resilience behind one of radio’s most iconic voices. Part two - https://apple.co/4jBfx6R

In this episode, Gerry Dick sits down with the dean of sportswriters covering the Indianapolis Colts. Mike Chappell reflects on his 40 years chronicling the team’s highs, lows and legends. From the franchise’s arrival to the Peyton Manning era and beyond, Chappell shares stories that shaped both the team and the city. It’s a candid, inside-the-locker-room conversation about the evolution of one of the NFL’s most iconic franchises.

In this episode, Gerry Dick sits down with Indiana Furniture President and CEO Max Verkamp to explore the 120-year journey of one of Jasper’s most enduring companies. Founded in 1905 by German immigrants, Indiana Furniture has grown into a nationally respected manufacturer while remaining deeply rooted in its Southern Indiana community. Verkamp shares how the family-owned company strikes the right balance between automation and traditional craftsmanship and the strong community spirit that has shaped Jasper into a powerhouse in office furniture manufacturing.

Indy 500 champion and fan favorite Tony Kanaan joins Gerry Dick for a wide-ranging and emotional conversation about one of the sport’s most remarkable careers. He reflects on what it means to be an Indy 500 champion, his improbable journey to Victory Lane and his current transition from the cockpit to team principal at Arrow McLaren. It’s an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance and the enduring magic of the Indy 500.

In this episode, former elite cyclist and four-time national champion Tom Hanley shares how tragedy reshaped his purpose and how passion, grit, and vision have helped him grow one of Indiana’s most important youth-serving nonprofits. After a devastating accident ended his racing career, he founded Nine13 sports to give back to the community that supported him during recovery. It’s the story of one leader’s determination to make life better for the next generation.

Lake City Bank CEO David Findlay joins Gerry Dick to discuss how one of Indiana’s largest community banks continues to grow while staying true to its local roots. Findlay shares insights on the bank’s long-term growth strategy, its commitment to remaining independent, and why community involvement remains central to its mission. He also reflects on his upbringing in Elkhart County and vision for the bank’s future in an evolving financial landscape.

On this episode, Gerry Dick sits down with Central Indiana Corporate Partnership CEO Melina Kennedy to discuss the organization’s growing role in shaping the economic future of Indianapolis and the state. We explore the major challenges and opportunities facing Indiana today — from workforce and talent pipelines to sector growth in the life sciences, advanced manufacturing, agbioscience, and tech. It’s a forward-looking conversation about momentum, leadership, and building a stronger, more innovative Indiana.

Indiana Landmarks is at a turning point. After decades under the leadership of Marsh Davis, new CEO Brad Ward has taken the reins of one of the nation’s largest and most respected historic preservation organizations. In this episode, he shares his vision for balancing preservation with progress and how preserving historic buildings can fuel economic development and community revitalization. Ward also opens up about his roots in Jasper and what he sees as the biggest opportunities for Indiana’s built environment.

Indiana University Athletic Director Scott Dolson joins Gerry Dick for an inside look at IU’s stunning rise to the top of the college football world. He shares perspective on how a decisive coaching hire — Curt Cignetti — transformed the program and offers perspective on how the $92 million deal that kept Cignetti in Bloomington came together. Dolson also has plenty to say about new hoops coach Darian Devries and the unprecedented challenges of navigating the choppy, uncharted waters of college athletics.

Citizens Energy Group CEO Jeff Harrison joins the podcast to discuss the evolution of one of Indianapolis’ most enduring institutions. Harrison shares insights on Indiana’s energy outlook, what reliable energy means for economic growth, and completion of the DigIndy project—the multi-billion-dollar, 250-foot-deep engineering marvel. The Jeffersonville native and son of a bricklayer also reflects on how he learned the value of hard work and how those lessons remain with him today.

Republic Airways has become a major force in the regional airline industry—operating more than 1,000 daily flights and employing over 6,500 people. With a new high-tech headquarters campus about to open in Carmel and bold initiatives to tackle the national pilot shortage, Republic is shaping the future of aviation from its Indiana home. President Matt Koscal joins Gerry Dick to talk about the company’s growth, innovation, and the challenges facing the airline industry.

Indianapolis entrepreneur Amy Brown founded Authenticx in 2018 with the idea that recorded customer conversations could unlock powerful insights for healthcare. Today, her company ingests more than 300 million conversations annually, with 75% of its revenue coming from pharmaceutical manufacturers. In this episode, she shares the aha! moment that sparked Authenticx, the company’s rapid growth and why she passionately believes Indiana is an ideal place to grow a cutting-edge AI business.

The bar is set sky high and Purdue Head Coach Matt Painter says he is ready for a season that Boiler fans hope will culminate in another trip to the Final Four, this one just 70 miles from campus in Indianapolis. In this episode, Painter talks expectations, the influence of legendary coach Gene Keady and the culture that defines Purdue hoops. He also reflects on the state of college basketball and navigating the game’s evolution while keeping Purdue among the nation’s elite.

Inside Indiana Business Host Gerry Dick recently sat down with Indiana Governor Mike Braun in his Statehouse office for an extended interview. In a wide-ranging conversation, the entrepreneur-turned-politician touched on economic development, who pays for data centers, property taxes and much more, including his interest in an emerging technology corridor connecting a big swath of the state. In a special edition of the Business & Beyond podcast, we present the full 25-minute interview.

Ivy Tech Community College has grown into the largest singly accredited public community college system in the nation and plays a critical role in fueling Indiana’s talent pipeline. In this episode, new President Dr. Marty Pollio shares his vision for the college, the opportunities and challenges ahead, and the crucial role the business community plays. Pollio also reflects on his personal journey — from the son of a college basketball coach to teacher, coach, and now leader of one of Indiana’s most important institutions.

Tamika Catchings is more than a Hall of Fame basketball legend—she’s an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and global ambassador for the game. In this episode, she reflects on life after basketball, from empowering young players through Basketball Without Borders in Africa to building businesses and giving back to community. She also opens up with perspective on a critical time for the WNBA and what drives her to keep inspiring others long after her playing career ended.

From the Grand Park Sports Campus to new housing developments and a revitalized downtown, Westfield is a city on the rise. In this episode, Mayor Scott Willis reflects on Westfield’s transformation and looks ahead to what’s next. Can Westfield become the sports capital its leaders envision?

Indiana’s largest construction firm is under new leadership as Pat Kenney becomes the fourth-generation family member to serve as president of F.A. Wilhelm Construction Co. In this episode, Kenney talks tradition, the state of the construction industry and the 102-year-old firm’s role in shaping the Indiana skyline.

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Eckerle, PNC Bank’s regional president for central and southern Indiana, for an inside look at the state of banking and how technology is transforming the industry. Jason shares his journey to the president’s office and why community service remains a cornerstone of vision for the bank. The conversation also explores the business value behind PNC’s sponsorship of Chip Ganassi Racing and IndyCar star Scott Dixon—and why the partnership matters on and off the track.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

A new arena, rapid growth, and record economic development are transforming the city of Noblesville. In this episode, Mayor Chris Jensen, a Noblesville native, shares how his deep personal connection to the city shapes his leadership, the vision behind the new arena, and the delicate balance between honoring the past and building for the future.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Pence Becker — former television news anchor turned entrepreneur and niece of former Vice President Mike Pence. She shares her journey from the anchor desk to entrepreneurship, offering candid insights on making a career pivot and balancing life as a mother of four boys. She also reflects on lessons learned from her high-profile political family and how those experiences have shaped her perspective on leadership, life, and resilience.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

In this episode, ESPN NFL reporter Stephen Holder provides a front-row perspective on the high stakes for the Indianapolis Colts heading into a new season and if Anthony Richardson will be under center game one. The veteran sports journalist also weighs in on pay equity for the WNBA, the evolution of sports media and his journey from South Florida to Indiana---and why he’s stayed.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

It’s a story of grit, guts, and game-changing technology. In this episode, we sit down with Dan O’Toole, the visionary founder and CEO of Arrive AI—a high-tech company revolutionizing the future of delivery with its smart mailbox system for drones and robots. What started as a vision sketched on a napkin has turned into a publicly traded company, with O'Toole recently ringing the opening bell on the NASDAQ Stock Market. He shares the rollercoaster ride of building a company ahead of its time and the challenges of staying the course.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

In this episode, we sit down with Bryan Mills, the longtime CEO of Community Health Network, who is retiring after an extraordinary 40-year career. When Mills joined Community, it was a single hospital. Today, it is one of Indiana’s largest health systems, with more than10,000 employees. He shares insights on growth, the state of healthcare and lessons learned in an industry he never thought he’d be a part of.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Schutt, the newly appointed leader of Indiana’s Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation. A self-described “accidental entrepreneur,” Schutt has been tapped by Governor Mike Braun to empower Hoosier innovators and grow “Main Street businesses.” He shares his vision for cultivating a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, the challenges and opportunities facing Indiana’s small business community, and how this new office aims to unlock the next generation of homegrown success stories.

When he was elected in 2015 at the age of 26, Matt Gentry was Indiana’s second-youngest mayor.  A decade later, he’s leading Lebanon through a dramatic transformation, headlined by Eli Lilly and Company’s $13 billion investment in the LEAP Innovation District. In this episode, he talks about the challenges and opportunities that change brings, leading at a young age and his vision for reshaping Lebanon for generations to come.

Meet Leah Koch-Blumhardt and Lauren Koch-Crosby, the fourth-generation owners of Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari—America’s first theme park. From free soft drinks and sunscreen to top-ranked water rides, they talk about what makes the park special, the importance of storytelling, and how they’re tackling challenges like seasonal staffing, rising costs, and employee housing. It’s a fun look at how tradition and innovation come together in Santa Claus, Indiana.

In this episode, veteran NFL coach and longtime Colts analyst Rick Venturi joins the show for a candid conversation about his decades-long relationship with Colts owner Jim Irsay. Venturi reflects on Irsay’s legacy, how he likely hoped to be remembered, and what lies ahead for the franchise under the Irsay daughters’ leadership. He also shares an early assessment of this year’s Colts team, from quarterback questions to defensive expectations. It’s a wide-ranging discussion with one of the NFL’s most knowledgeable and entertaining voices.

In this episode, we sit down with Deb Whitfield, the trailblazing mayor of Lawrence, Indiana — the first woman and first African American to hold the office in Marion County. Mayor Whitfield reflects on her first year in office, sharing insights into leading a city of 50,000 with a rich and diverse population. She highlights Lawrence’s unique assets like Fort Benjamin Harrison and its expansive state park and discusses efforts to improve community-police relations through a new critical response team. She also outlines her vision for revitalizing the Pendleton Pike corridor with new housing and retail investment. It’s a candid conversation about leadership, legacy, and opportunity.

In this episode, we sit down with Collin Hilton, Chef de Cuisine at Cunningham Restaurant Group and a newly crowned World Food Champion. Hilton shares his journey from an unlikely start in the kitchen to winning big on a national stage—at the World Food Championships Final Table---and a $150,000 pay day. Known for his quiet confidence and precision, Hilton opens up about how cooking has changed his life, Indy’s underrated food scene and the inspiration for his award-winning dishes.

In this episode, award-winning journalist and historian A’Lelia Bundles discusses her new biography, Joy Goddess: A’Lelia Walker and the Harlem Renaissance. Bundles, the great-granddaughter of A’Lelia Walker and great-great-granddaughter of Madam C.J. Walker, shares what inspired her decades-long fascination with A’Lelia’s life — an iconic figure of the Harlem Renaissance known for her legendary parties and cultural impact. She also reflects on Indianapolis, her career in network television and why storytelling still matters.

In this episode, we sit down with the new president of the University of Southern Indiana — and the first USI graduate to ever lead the university. Steven Bridges shares his vision, including the highly anticipated transition to Division I athletics and what it means for the campus community. We also dive into the challenges facing higher education and his focus on connecting with community. It’s a forward-looking conversation about leadership, opportunity, and the path ahead during uncertain times.