Spotlight Podcast

In this episode of The Spotlight Podcast, Tim Branyan sits down with entrepreneur Austin Walls, owner of Walls Furniture & Mattress, to talk about building a family business, overcoming failure, and what it really takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. Austin shares his journey from growing up in the furniture business at just 15 years old to launching and scaling his own store. From loading trucks late at night to learning the value of work ethic, resilience, and customer service, this episode is packed with real-world lessons for anyone chasing success.They also dive into:- The truth about entrepreneurship (and why failure is part of the process)- How family values shape a business- What most people don’t know about the furniture industry- Practical tips for buying furniture the right way- Leadership, mentorship, and building a strong team If you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or someone looking to grow personally and professionally, this conversation is for you.CHAPTERS 0:00 – Welcome to the Spotlight + Vision Studio Shoutout 1:04 – Meet Austin Walls (Walls Furniture & Mattress) 2:08 – Moving to Kokomo & Building Community 3:12 – What is Walls Furniture? 4:28 – How the Family Business Started (1996 Story)6:05 – Health Scare That Changed Everything7:55 – Starting From Scratch: Auctions & Hustle10:18 – Filling the House With Furniture 11:58 – Opening the First Store (Real Startup Moment) 13:40 – Early Lessons in Work Ethic 15:22 – Paper Route Story & First Jordans17:50 – BMX Era & Childhood Grind20:05 – Transitioning to New Furniture 22:20 – Why Used Furniture Doesn’t Work Like It Used To24:05 – What People Don’t Know About the Furniture Industry 26:50 – Why Furniture Prices Haven’t Skyrocketed29:45 – Modern Furniture Tech (Massage, LED, & More)32:05 – Adapting as an Entrepreneur 33:55 – How to Actually Shop for Furniture (Must Know) 36:20 – Why WHO You Buy From Matters Most 38:50 – Customer Service & Repairs Behind the Scenes 40:55 – Building a Team That Actually Cares 42:50 – Most Rewarding Moments in Business 44:45 – Creating a No-Pressure Buying Experience46:20 – Advice for Entrepreneurs (Hard Truths) 48:20 – “Spine Sweat” (Powerful Mindset Shift)49:25 – Where to Find Walls Furniture50:41 – Outro🔗 Connect & Learn More 👉 Austin Walls (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-walls-2526b213/ 👉 Tim Branyan (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/timbranyan/ 👉 Walls Furniture & Mattress: https://shopwallsfurniture.com/ 👉 Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC): https://isbdc.org/ 👉 Vision Studio (Book a session): https://www.bookvisionstudio.com/ About the Show The Spotlight highlights entrepreneurs, leaders, and creators making an impact in their communities and beyond. New episodes feature real conversations, real stories, and real lessons. entrepreneurship, small business, family business, Kokomo Indiana, leadership, business podcast, startup advice, furniture business, personal development, success mindset

In this episode, host Tim Branyan sits down with Rick Witt, the new Head Golf Professional at Kokomo Country Club, to talk about leadership, relationships, and the powerful role golf plays in building community. Rick shares his journey from collegiate golf to running elite golf operations, why he chose to be part of the club’s transformation, and how golf creates lifelong connections — from family memories to business opportunities.You’ll also hear about:⛳ The real role of a PGA professional⛳ How golf and entrepreneurship are more alike than you think⛳ The future vision for the club’s growth and culture⛳ Programs for families, juniors, and new players⛳ Why country clubs are evolving into community hubsWhether you're an entrepreneur, a golf enthusiast, or someone looking for meaningful experiences with family and friends — this conversation is packed with insight.🔗 Connect with Tim LinkedIn: / timbranyan 🏢 Business support resources Indiana Small Business Development Center: https://isbdc.org/⛳ Learn more about the course https://www.kokomocountryclub.com/cou...📩 Contact Rick Wit [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])⏱️ TIMESTAMPS (Podcast length: 30:25)0:00 Intro & welcome1:05 Rick’s background and golf journey4:10 What a head golf pro really does7:00 Golf lessons, enjoyment, and lifelong play9:30 Golf parallels with entrepreneurship12:15 Running great golf operations & customer experience15:00 Why Rick chose Kokomo Country Club18:10 Building community and family culture21:00 Programs for ladies, juniors, and new players24:00 Golf for networking and business relationships27:10 The future vision for the club29:10 How to connect, visit, or get involvedIf you enjoyed this episode, like, subscribe, and share with someone who loves golf, business, or building great communities.

What happens when traditional hiring fails—and you decide to build talent instead? In this episode of The Spotlight Podcast, host Tim Branyan sits down with seasoned entrepreneur and educator Ron Brumbarger to unpack decades of experience building companies, developing people, and rethinking how we educate and train the workforce.From founding and exiting a successful tech firm to launching Apprenticeship University, Ron shares why curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning matter more than résumés—and how entrepreneurs can solve talent gaps by designing better systems. This conversation is packed with real-world lessons on entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and why giving knowledge away is the ultimate growth strategy.If you’re an entrepreneur, leader, educator, or someone questioning the traditional path—this episode is for you.Timestamps (Podcast length: 69:50)00:00 – Intro & welcome to The Spotlight Podcast02:10 – Meet Ron Brumbarger & his entrepreneurial background06:45 – Building and selling a tech company (Bitwise Solutions)11:30 – Why hiring talent kept failing16:20 – Walking away from $1M in business19:40 – Why Ron started Apprenticeship University26:10 – Why learning by doing beats lectures32:00 – The real skills businesses can’t find38:15 – Innovation, curiosity, and problem-finding44:30 – Why brainstorming usually fails50:10 – Fear, belief, and getting in the game55:40 – Trust, empathy, and active listening in leadership61:20 – Giving knowledge away to build authority66:30 – Final thoughts on success, fulfillment, and relationshipsLinks & Resources Ron Brumbarger 📱 Phone: (317)-490-4376📧 Email: [email protected]🔗 LinkedIn: / in Tim Branyan 🔗 LinkedIn: / timbranyan Featured Organizations🌱 Struinova: https://struinova.com/🏢 Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC): https://isbdc.org/🎥 Vision StudioWhy Hiring Is Broken (And What Actually Works): https://www.bookvisionstudio.com/

In this episode of the Spotlight Podcast, host Tim Branyan sits down with Courtney Zaugg, Indiana-based entrepreneur, innovation strategist, and co-founder of Venture Vets, to explore what it really takes to build sustainable support systems for entrepreneurs—especially those from the military community. Courtney shares her journey from international economic development to entrepreneurship, the creation of Venture Vets, and how obsession, service, and trust drive long-term impact. From construction tech and digital skills accelerators to launching a veteran-focused fund, this conversation dives deep into the future of entrepreneurship, policy, and community-driven growth. Whether you’re a veteran entrepreneur, community leader, economic developer, or someone building the next generation of support organizations, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and actionable perspective. 🔗 Links & Resources: Courtney Zaugg – LinkedIn: / courtneyzaugg Venture Vets: https://www.theventurevets.com/ Tim Branyan – LinkedIn: / timbranyan Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC): https://isbdc.org/ Vision Studio (Podcast Production): https://bookvisionstudio.com Produced by Vision Studio 📍 Recorded in Indiana Supporting entrepreneurs, veterans, and communities nationwideEpisode Timestamps (37:17) 00:00 – Welcome & Courtney’s background 03:10 – From international development to entrepreneurship 09:45 – Why entrepreneurship became the path forward14:40 – The origin and evolution of Venture Vets20:55 – Building trust and community in veteran ecosystems25:30 – Women in leadership & entrepreneurship30:10 – What’s coming in 2026: accelerators & venture fund34:40 – Advice for communities & support organizations36:30 – How to connect with Courtney & Venture Vets

Starting a business can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Art McDonald and Tim Branyan share honest, real-world insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and what actually matters when building something from the ground up. From overcoming fear and uncertainty to learning while moving forward, this conversation breaks down the mindset shifts that separate successful entrepreneurs from those who never get started.If you’re thinking about launching a business, growing one, or just want clarity on the entrepreneurial journey, this episode is packed with practical perspective and encouragement. This discussion also highlights the importance of curiosity, resilience, and sharing knowledge — and how organizations like the ISBDC support entrepreneurs at every stage.🔗 Connect & Learn More (Links referenced in this episode)Art McDonald on LinkedIn: / art-mcdonald-48b7b832 Tim Branyan on LinkedIn: / timbranyan Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC): https://isbdc.org

Entrepreneurship isn’t about reckless risk — it’s about not quitting. In this episode of The Spotlight, host Tim Branyan sits down with Mikel Berger, President & CEO of Greater Lafayette Commerce, to unpack what real entrepreneurship looks like behind the scenes. From starting a software company straight out of college, to helping launch MatchBOX Coworking Studio, to leading one of Indiana’s most influential business organizations, Mikel shares hard-earned lessons on:Calculated risk vs. perceived riskBuilding businesses without burning the bridge behind youThe power of mentors, spouses, and communityWhy entrepreneurship is an infinite gameHow chambers of commerce and ecosystems actually help businesses growThis conversation is packed with wisdom for:✔️ Entrepreneurs✔️ Business owners (early-stage to scaling)✔️ Community leaders✔️ Anyone curious about sustainable growth and leadership🎧 Whether you’re building your first company or navigating the next stage of growth, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and practical insight.🔗 Connect with the People & Organizations Featured:Host – Tim Branyan (LinkedIn): / timbranyan Guest – Mikel Berger (LinkedIn): / mikelberger Indiana SBDC – Hoosier Heartland Region: https://www.isbdc.org/locations/hoosi... Greater Lafayette Commerce: https://www.greaterlafayettecommerce....

In this episode, we sit down with Katelyn Colclazier, a business professional known for her approach to leadership, organizational development, and strategic growth.This 41-minute conversation breaks down the realities of business in 2025:✔️ Leadership that actually works✔️ Building teams that perform✔️ Creating workplace culture that isn’t fake✔️ Mistakes businesses make (and how to avoid them)✔️ How individuals can stand out, grow, and move up✔️ The mindset behind long-term successIf you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or someone trying to level up in your career, this episode delivers real, practical, actionable insight.00:00 – Intro01:02 – Meet Katelyn Colclazier04:20 – Her journey into the business world09:18 – What separates good and great leaders15:35 – How to build strong, efficient teams21:44 – Solving common business challenges28:05 – The importance of culture & communication33:12 – Career growth and staying competitive38:50 – Final business advice41:00 – Outro📌 RESOURCES & LINKS Vision StudioBook the studio or learn more: https://bookvisionstudio.com Indiana SBDC Supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners: https://isbdc.orgHost: Tim BranyanConnect with Tim on LinkedIn:   / timbranyan  Guest: Katelyn ColclazierConnect with Katelyn on LinkedIn:  / katelyn-colclazier  

Join us for an insightful conversation with Ty Tjoelker, Managing Director at Gener8tor, as we dive into the world of entrepreneurship, accelerators, and the vibrant startup ecosystem in Indiana and beyond. Ty shares his journey with Gener8tor, the impact of their gBETA program, and the upcoming BOLT conference in Indianapolis. Learn about the key traits of successful entrepreneurs—curiosity and grit—and how Gener8tor supports founders in turning their visions into reality. Don’t miss this engaging discussion with host Tim Branyan at Vision Studio!Connect with Ty Tjoelker on LinkedIn:   / ty-tjoelker  Learn more about Gener8tor: https://www.gener8tor.com/Learn more about Vision Studio: https://www.bookvisionstudio.com/

Unlock the secrets to meaningful success and work-life integration with Coach Lucas Woody in this inspiring episode of the Spotlight Podcast! Host Tim Brandon sits down with Coach Woody—entrepreneur, educator, and founder of Next Better—to explore his journey from small-town Indiana to coaching high achievers and business leaders. Discover how Coach Woody’s unique approach helps clients break through limiting beliefs, redefine fulfillment, and achieve sustainable growth—not just in business, but in life.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or anyone seeking clarity and purpose, this conversation dives deep into:- The real reasons behind goal-setting and why many goals fall short- Why “work-life balance” is a myth—and what to do instead- How to identify what truly matters and create lasting change- The power of empathy, curiosity, and self-reflection in leadershipDon’t miss Coach Woody’s actionable insights and personal stories that will empower you to take your next step—whatever your “next better” looks like.

Tim Branyan from the Hoosier Heartland Indiana Small Business Development Center sits down with Drew Hansen, the relentless force behind Hansen & Holmes. Born and raised in Kokomo, Indiana, Drew traded a corporate grind and a bar gig for a full-throttle leap into home remodeling—without a website or fancy ads, just pure word-of-mouth hustle. From jacking up houses to chasing perfection (think 10/10 drywall!), Drew shares how grit, ambition, and mindset turned his passion for projects into a thriving business in just 14 months.We dig into his journey—quitting a parts-pushing manufacturing job, surviving 62 emails a day from an armchair boss, and resetting life after a divorce. Drew drops gold for aspiring entrepreneurs: why discipline trumps fast food, how health fuels dollars, and the power of saying “no” to grow right. Plus, hear about his carnivore diet wins, a wild city league basketball injury, and hunting bucks like a man possessed. Recorded at Vision Studio, this is raw, real, and packed with lessons for anyone ready to swing the axe.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: Triactin Tease & Welcome2:30 - Drew Hansen: From Kokomo to Hansen & Holmes6:15 - Starting a Business with Zero Marketing12:00 - Grit, Ambition, Mindset: Drew’s Big Three18:45 - Health Hacks: Carnivore Diet & No Booze Wins25:20 - Competitive Edge: Sports, Hunting, and Business32:00 - Tips for Homeowners & Future Plans38:10 - How to Connect with DrewConnect with Drew:Phone: (765) 432-6965Facebook: Drew Hansen (personal)Instagram: @hansenhomes Resources:Indiana SBDC: Need help starting, growing, or exiting your business? Reach out at isbdc.org for free support and connections.Vision Studio: Podcast, photo, or video needs? Hit up bookvisionstudio.com for the easy button.Like, subscribe, and drop a comment—what’s your grit story? Thanks for tuning in!

Tim Branyan sits down with Don Wettrick, founder of StartEdUp Foundation and a trailblazer in education, at Vision Studio in Kokomo. From a 20-year teaching gig to sparking a “bizarre” class on innovation and entrepreneurship, Don’s journey is wild—think Skyping Tim Ferris on Halloween, coaching kids to Forbes 30 Under 30, and turning moaners into seekers. He shares how a Daniel Pink TED Talk lit the fuse, leading to StartEdUp and Innovate Within, a free program that’s impacted thousands of students by turning problems into opportunities.Don breaks down the magic: juggernaut teachers, a crazy network (Seth Godin consults, anyone?), and a mission to see kids pivot, fail, and win big—like the rural Indiana teens who scaled a fishing lure empire. Recorded in partnership with the SBDC, this episode dives into empowering youth, retaining top educators, and why 2025’s teacher accelerator expansion has Don buzzing. Got a mayor or a teen with a dream? Don’s got you.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: Name Drops & Golf Drives3:15 - Don Wettrick: Teacher to StartEdUp Visionary8:00 - The “Bizarre” Class That Started It All14:30 - Seekers vs. Moaners: A Mindset Shift21:00 - Innovate Within: Solving Problems, Not Just Plans27:45 - Juggernaut Teachers & Accelerator Vibes34:00 - Success Stories: Forbes, Y Combinator, and Beyond40:15 - What’s Next for 202545:00 - How to Connect with DonConnect with Don:Email: [email protected]: startedupfoundation.orgLinkedIn: Don WettrickResources:SBDC Support: Free help at isbdc.orgVision Studio: Video magic at bookvisionstudio.comInnovate Within: Learn more at innovatewithin.orgLike, subscribe, and comment—what problem are you turning into an opportunity? Thanks for tuning in!

Tim Branyan on Spotlight as he sits down with Jesus Correa, Latino Business Liaison at Greater Lafayette Commerce (GLC). Discover how GLC goes beyond a typical Chamber of Commerce, driving economic and workforce development in Greater Lafayette, Indiana. Jesus shares his journey growing Latino business membership from 5 to 50, hosting events like Café con Exiones and the Latino Business Expo (March 7, 2025, 2-6 PM at Tippecanoe Fairgrounds), and building a thriving community network. Learn how GLC supports entrepreneurs, fosters connections, and invests in the region’s future. Don’t miss success stories, networking tips, and more!Connect with Jesus: [email protected] | Follow GLC for updates!

Join Tim Branyan on Spotlight as he chats with Nate Smith, founder of Northstar Systems, a data monitoring service revolutionizing agtech and beyond. From his Air Force days to launching in October 2023, Nate shares how his company provides safety and efficiency for fertilizer tanks, grain silos, and municipalities using real-time 5G tech. Discover his rapid growth, nomination for TechPoint’s Mira Awards (Feb 27, 2025), and role on the TechPoint Advisory Board. Plus, hear why he’s proud of Indiana’s resilience and how Matchbox Coworking fueled his success.Connect with Nate: [email protected] | www.monitormytank.com

In Episode 4, Tim Branyan sits down with Heath Murray, a super-connector and Executive Director of DING Midwest, at Vision Studio in Kokomo. From southern Indiana coal country to law enforcement, bartending in South Carolina, and now bridging the Midwest’s defense ecosystem, Heath’s journey is packed with grit and lessons. He breaks down the complex world of Department of Defense (DoD) contracting—think beyond missiles to napkins, IT, and biotech—and shares how any entrepreneur can get started, no matter their size.Heath spills the tea on networking your way in, why informal connections are a “weapons system,” and how DING fills the gaps for businesses eyeing government work. Recorded before his talk with the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance, this episode dives into sam.gov, cage codes, and the 14 DoD focus areas (link below!). Whether you’re a manufacturer, software dev, or just curious, Heath’s blunt advice—plus upcoming DING events—will get you moving. Oh, and it all started over beer.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: Vision Studio Vibes & Beers We Can’t Have2:45 - Heath Murray: Cop, Surfer, DoD Dynamo8:30 - DoD 101: It’s Not Hard, It’s Complicated14:15 - What the Government Actually Buys20:00 - Step 1: Sam.gov, Cage Codes, and Events26:40 - DING Midwest: Networking as a Superpower33:00 - Vision for Economic Growth39:20 - How to Connect with HeathResources:Connect with Heath: dingmidwest.org | LinkedIn: Heath MurrayDoD Strategic Focus Areas: Check the 14 areas hereDING Events: Bloomington Happy Hour (March 17, 2025), Purdue Roadshow (TBD Spring 2025), Fort Wayne Roadshow (TBD Spring 2025) – details at dingmidwest.org/eventsSBDC Support: isbdc.org for free business helpLike, subscribe, and comment—ready to crack the DoD code? Thanks for listening!

Tim Branyan sits down with Alec Downing, a servant leader from First Farmers Bank and a driving force behind the Kokomo CEO program. From his roots in Greentown, Indiana, to shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs, Alec shares his journey, insider banking insights, and passion for community growth. We dive into the Kokomo CEO program—Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities—its impact on high school students, and how it’s igniting optimism and innovation in Howard County.Highlights include Alec’s role on the CEO board, the program’s 177 alumni and nationwide reach, and inspiring stories of students like Kelton, Eli Johnson, and many more. Plus, discover how First Farmers Bank empowers local entrepreneurs and why Kokomo is a hidden gem for opportunity. Recorded at Vision Studio in Kokomo, this conversation is all about building belief, grit, and a brighter future.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: Kicking Off Episode 32:15 - Meet Alec Downing: From Greentown to Kokomo5:40 - What is the Kokomo CEO Program?12:30 - Student Success Stories & Community Impact20:00 - First Farmers Bank as an Entrepreneurial Ally28:50 - Personal Insights: Books, Shows, and Faith35:15 - How to Get Involved with Kokomo CEOGet Involved:Kokomo CEO: Visit kokomoceo.com to invest or learn more. Email Kelly at [email protected] for opportunities.First Farmers Bank: Contact Alec at [email protected] or (765) 391-1769.Vision Studio: Book your podcast or creative project at bookvisionstudio.com.Shoutouts: Jefferson Street BBQ, Vision Studio, Ahmads Vision, Robert Hatchett, and the Kokomo business community.

Join host Tim Branyan as he sits down with Joseph Link, a seasoned expert in business development and dealer relationships, to unpack the secrets behind thriving manufacturer-dealer partnerships. From his roles at Arrowquip and Yakta—managing over 250 U.S. dealers—to his early days at Ventrec with Aeroquip, Joseph shares how persistence, innovative floor planning, and top-tier customer service drive success across industries like lawnmowers and livestock equipment.Discover how Joseph’s team supports dealers with zero-upfront-cost inventory, co-op marketing dollars, and warranty assistance, including a standout story of a Red Carolina dealer hitting $690,000 in sales. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, salesperson, or business enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable insights on building relationships that last.00:00 - Intro: Joseph’s Journey at Ventrec02:30 - Inside the 255-Dealer Network14:56 - Floor Planning: Supporting Dealer Growth17:55 - Customer Service & Warranty Wins27:52 - Sales Persistence: Why Joseph Always Calls BackSubscribe for more real-world business insights with Tim Branyan!