765BusinessJournal.com

Big ideas start right here in Muncie!

On this week’s 765 Business Journal, host Lathay Pegues sat down with Ted Baker, CEO of the Innovation Connector, to talk about nearly 20 years of helping local entrepreneurs turn their ideas into thriving businesses.

They also gave us a preview of Business Showcase Week, happening this fall in partnership with Global Entrepreneurship Week—an event so impactful, it ranked Top 5 in the natio...

 Fire Up Downtown sets another record!

More than 17,000 people packed the streets of Muncie this year — up from 14,000 last year and 11,000 the year before. The festival continues to grow, bringing a boost to downtown merchants, vendors, and the local economy.

Event Director Cheryl Crowder joined 765 Business Journal to share the behind-the-scenes of this year’s success, from hot air balloons glowing over the skyline, to live ...

We’re spotlighting the Muncie Civic Theatre this morning as they prepare for a brand-new season! Executive Director Laura Williamson and Development Director Maggie Sadler join us to talk about the powerful upcoming production of Hairspray, the return of beloved director Terry Whitt Bailey, and what audiences can expect from the rest of the exciting season — from Miracle on 34th Street to Frozen!

Plus — sneak peek at the second ...

 Big investments. Big ideas. Big changes for Muncie.

Jeff Howe of the Muncie Redevelopment Commission joins 765 Business Journal to break down everything from a $100 million mall overhaul to a new hotel downtown and a major housing-retail project at High Street Station.

Learn how city-backed investments, including a fresh $432K boost, are helping turn plans into action—and how it could all start this October.

 Listen now at W...

 Out with the old name, in with a bold new brand!

On this week’s 765 Business Journal, we sit down with Yolanda Taylor and Shaina Robinson of the soon-to-be Garner Hotel in Muncie—currently operating as the Muncie Place Hotel & Suites. (Also Pictured is their emotional support fellow employee Kayla Marshall!)

 Formerly the Holiday Inn Express on Bethel Avenue, this location is undergoing a full transformation, becoming only t...

Dig In & Give Back with Minnetrista!

On this week’s 765 Business Journal with host Lathay Pegues, we spotlight one of Muncie’s crown jewels: Minnetrista Museum & Gardens — where history, art, gardens, and community all grow together.

Guests Julie Mason (Volunteer Specialist) and Chris Allen (Horticulture Specialist) share how volunteers are the heartbeat behind Minnetrista’s vibrant events and ever-changing exhibits. Fr...

On this week’s episode of 765 Business Journal, Lathay Pegues sits down with 20-year-old entrepreneur and community activist Zion Strong, son of the late Marwin Strong. Zion shares how he’s carrying on his father’s legacy — from launching the empowerment-based clothing brand Foreverlasting to leading community change with his nonprofit Superior Inc.

Zion talks business, faith, and the power of perseverance — and reveals how he’s ...

If you grew up in Muncie, chances are magician Wayne Hinkle wowed you at a school assembly — and now, at 86 years young, he’s still at it! Wayne joins Lathay in studio, along with Jennifer Wilson, owner of 18 Party Parlor, to talk about an upcoming fundraising magic show that promises thrills, levitation, laughs — and even a rubber hot dog or two.

A Grand Night of Magic with Wayne Hinkle happens Thursday, July 24 at 6 PM at Nort...

On this week’s episode of 765 Business Journal, host Lathey Pegues sits down with Jasmine Taylor, a passionate entrepreneur who turned childhood hustle into purpose-driven impact. From selling homemade chocolate in low-income housing as a kid, to launching her own boutique, to now guiding the next generation through her Young Entrepreneur Launchpad, Jasmine is redefining what it means to give back.

Hear how her journey—from advers...

From sales manager to CEO — LaShanta Vaughn has done it all! On this episode of 765 Business Journal, Lathay Pegues chats with the President and CEO of the Horizon Convention Center about her professional journey, her passion for promoting Muncie as a destination, and what it really takes to attract top-tier conventions to a Midwest city.

Affordability

Accessibility

Atmosphere

 …and don’t forget the food!

Hear how LaShanta V...

RoHo’s Martini Bar is shaking up downtown Muncie!

This week, host Lathay Pegues sits down with co-owners Angie Rodgers-Howell and Matt Howell to talk about their bold new venture — a martini lounge with personality, heart, and a hint of red. From curated cocktails and custom-labeled vodka to mocktail options and mural-covered walls, RoHo’s is more than a bar — it’s a whole vibe.

The couple shares how community partnerships, per...

765 Business Journal with Lathay Pegues

 Live from the Talk of Muncie on WMUN – 92.5 FM | 1340 AM

 Mondays, 9:00–9:30 AM | Replay on WMUNmuncie.com

Today’s Episode (May 19): Legacy, Leadership, and Local Love

Entrepreneurship runs in her veins! Lathay Pegues welcomes Chelsee Bester, co-owner of Punchie’s Plaza and owner of Wig & Weave, as they talk family legacy, community reinvestment, and the rebirth of a southside Munci...

Two builders with big dreams in their sights,

Are framing up futures with might.

From Walnut Street’s core,

Their new office will soar,

As Cru Construction takes flight with new heights!

Jonathan Chambless & Chad Ray of Cru Construction talk about their new international HQ on North Walnut in downtown Muncie! It’s a 5,000 sq. ft. space with room for retail and a vision for growth — both locally and across the U...

Join host Lathay Pegues for an inspiring conversation about economic development, recovery, and community support right here in Delaware County.

Special guests Abby Gluvna, Executive Director, and Linda Daniels, Board Member of the Recovery Cafe Muncie, will share how their organization is making a real difference — and how recovery and economic growth go hand-in-hand.

Tune in to 765 Business Journal every Monday and hear the stori...

It’s more than just one magical night—it’s a mission.

On this episode of The 765 Business Journal with Lathay Pegues, Lynn Hatfield and Mindy Kemper, we spotlight the inspiring work behind the Delaware County Special Needs Prom. The organizers joined us to share how this event brings joy, connection, and unforgettable memories to local individuals with special needs—and how you can help make it even more special.

With ye...

This Week on 765 Business Journal – April 7

Host: Lathay Pegues | Station: WMUN 92.5FM | Mondays at 9 AM

Today on 765 Business Journal, we shine a light on community transformation with Ken Hudson, Executive Director of the Whitely Community Council. He joined us to talk about the development of the Centennial Resource Hub—a new space on Muncie’s east side that will bring critical resources like food, healthcare access, job tra...

This week, the 765 Business Journal welcomes Kallie Sulanke, the Chief Community Partner for Outreach & Donor Relations at The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County. Kallie, who brings a wealth of experience in communications and a deep commitment to community impact, partners with donors to help them achieve their charitable goals through meaningful storytelling.

In her role at the Foundation, Kallie has helped sh...