Behind the Region
What’s happening to spur economic vitality in the South Bend, Indiana, Region, and surrounding areas? And who are the people behind these efforts? We'll dive deeper beyond the headlines to keep you informed on the people and businesses making things happen in the region. You’ll hear casual and candid conversations with real people—business and community leaders driving the region forward. Hear authentic, unscripted stories from entrepreneurs, business owners, elected officials, and more!
Episodes
Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we spotlight the people, places, and ideas shaping our regional economy and community. Today, we’re excited to be joined by Irish Saunders from Swan Lake Resort in Plymouth, Indiana. Swan Lake is a standout destination for tourism, hospitality, and events in our region, and Irish plays a key role in sharing that story and creating m...
In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the forces driving growth, innovation, and opportunity across Northern Indiana. We’re joined by two exceptional leaders whose work impacts communities across the state and the nation.
First, Shannon Kellogg, Vice President of Public Policy for AWS for the Americas at Amazon. Shannon brings a national perspective on technology, public policy, and the future of cloud innovatio...
Today on Behind the Region, we’re excited to welcome Jonathon McKinnies, Branch Manager and Senior Loan Officer with CrossCountry Mortgage. Jonathon is widely recognized for his client-focused approach to home financing and his commitment to helping individuals and families across our region navigate one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.
With years of experience in the mortgage industry, Jonathon bring...
In this episode we sit down with Mathew Welsch, local franchise owner of GigWorx, We’ll explore how flexible, gig-style employment is reshaping the modern workforce across Michiana.
Mathew discusses the origins of GigWorx, why employers are turning to on-demand staffing models, and how workers of all ages are leveraging gig opportunities for supplemental income, career transitions, and long-term stability. He also dive...
Today, we’re stepping inside one of Mishawaka’s most historic and elegant landmarks—the Beiger Mansion.
Joining us are Ron Montandon and Dennis Slade, the owners and caretakers of this iconic 1900s Neoclassical home turned boutique inn and event venue. Dennis and Ron have spent years restoring the Beiger Mansion to its timeless grandeur, preserving its history while opening its doors to guests from all over the region...
Today on Behind the Region, we’re excited to welcome a leader who knows how to bring calm to chaos and turn some of life’s worst moments into opportunities for renewal. Michael Scott, of BluSky Restoration, joins us for a deep dive into the world of disaster recovery, property restoration, and what it takes to support businesses and families when the unexpected strikes.
Michael has built a reputation for combining tech...
John is a creative force in the local business community —
helping organizations of all sizes build stronger brands through strategic
design, marketing insight, and thoughtful consulting.
From crafting visual identities to guiding businesses through digital
transformation, John has become a trusted partner for companies looking
to stand out and grow right here in our region.
We’ll talk about how he got started, w...
Today, we’re heading to Osceola, Indiana — a small town with a big heart — to meet Tom Krueger, the owner of Hinges and Handles. What began as a passion for quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service has evolved into one of the region’s most trusted names in home hardware and design.
Tom’s story is about more than knobs and hinges — it’s about building relationships, taking pride in your work, and helping h...
With a background in music production and podcast‑engineering, Jon is helping businesses and creators tell their stories — and today he’s sharing his insight into launching a podcast that matters.
Whether you’re considering starting your own podcast or you’re just curious about how audio is shaping communication today, you’re in the right place. So let’s dive in and go behind the region.
Dustin’s Place is a nonprofit organization that provides grief support for children and families who have experienced the death of a loved one — creating a safe, compassionate space where healing can begin. What started as a personal journey for Vickie has grown into a mission that's helping hundreds of people in Michiana
We’ll talk with Vickie about how Dustin’s Place came to be, the unique programs they offer, t...
What happens when one of the world’s leading technology companies invests in your community?
In this episode, we sit down with Brandon Oyer, PE, Head of Power and Water for the Americas at Amazon Web Services (AWS). He shares how AWS’s $11 billion investment in New Carlisle is driving innovation in power and water efficiency, creating new opportunities for local workers, and helping shape a stronger, more con...
This week, we're putting the spotlight on a name you've likely seen — maybe without even realizing it. From bold building signage to eye-catching wraps, North American Signs has been helping businesses stand out for over 90 years.
But behind the crisp lettering and striking designs is a family-owned company with a legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and community roots that run deep.
In this episode, we si...
This week, we are talking about more than construction; we are talking about building hope, opportunity, and strong communities. Jim will discuss their latest projects, the power of volunteerism, and how local businesses, including yours, can get involved.
Dr. Hartley will inform us about UNIFI Autism Care, explain why a company based downstate decided to open a center in St. Joseph County, and specifically why they chose the location they did. What makes UNIFI Autism Care's philosophy so different from other autism care programs, and how did Dr. Hartley decide to make this field her specialty?
Mark Herriman, President & CEO of United Way of St. Joseph County, breaks down what United Way is and the impact it makes in our community. He shares the biggest challenges the organization is facing today, what excites him most about its work, and his vision for the future.
Chris Campbell, President of Centier Bank, and Len Amat, Head of Community Banking, share the remarkable story of a fifth-generation, family-owned business with roots stretching back more than a century. They discuss how Centier has grown from humble beginnings to over 60 branches, how they attract and retain top talent through a strong workplace culture, and what they see for the future of banking.
Phillip has an inspiring story about how Dean’s became a reality, and an even more meaningful reason behind the name. What motivated him to leave a well-paying job and take the risk of opening his own restaurant? In this talk, Phillip shares the heartfelt journey that led to Dean’s, the passion that drives his homemade menu, and the biggest challenges he has faced from opening day to running a successful business toda...
Greg shares the story of Imagine Financial and how his company approaches insurance in a fresh way. He explains what drives him to leave a highly successful career in the automotive industry to launch his own business, and the factors that influence that decision. As a co-owner with his wife, Chelsea, and a father of four, Greg also talks about how they balance the demands of entrepreneurship with family life, and how...
Rob shares an inside look at the Mendoza College of Business and the outstanding programs it offers. He highlights the history of the college, its partnership with the chamber, and his perspective on the future, not only for Mendoza but for business schools across the country.
Eric Klepper, Head Distiller and VP of Operations of The Indiana Whiskey Company, shares the company’s history and origins, how he became involved, and how his background and expertise prepared him to lead in crafting exceptional whiskey.
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