Indiana 250 Off the Record

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner. Their discussion looks at her career path from a high school business teacher in Madison to leading the state's $10 billion education system. Secretary Jenner details her efforts to modernize Indiana's education system from building a pipeline of skilled teachers and revamping the high school diploma to spearheading a $170 million investment in literacy and expanding access to apprenticeships. Jenner also offers insights into Indiana's stance on federal education reform, the role of soft skills in workforce readiness, and how her leadership is rooted in urgency and personal mentorship.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Pete Yonkman, president of Cook Group and its subsidiary Cook Medical. Based in Bloomington, Cook is Indiana's 3rd largest private company and a key player in the life sciences sector. Yonkman shares insights on what it takes to be a medical innovator and why Cook's 57 medical firsts were all born from collaboration. He also discusses a unique partnership with Goodwill that brought a manufacturing facility, and new opportunity, to a historically underserved Indianapolis neighborhood. A Crown Point native and IU Maurer law grad, Yonkman reflects on his wide-ranging interests from supporting NIL initiatives and local nonprofits to producing a film at West Baden Springs Hotel.  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Marisol Sanchez, executive vice president, general counsel, and board member of Endress+Hauser USA. Marisol shares her journey from growing up in Puerto Rico, earning a business degree at the University of Puerto Rico, relocating to Indiana through an exchange program with what was then Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, attending the IU Maurer School of Law, to ultimately becoming a key leader at the U.S. division of a global industrial automation company. Marisol also discusses her experience clerking for Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Randall Shepard, moving into private practice, and then launching the in-house legal department at Endress+Hauser.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Marisol Sanchez, executive vice president, general counsel, and board member of Endress+Hauser USA. Marisol shares her journey from growing up in Puerto Rico, earning a business degree at the University of Puerto Rico, relocating to Indiana through an exchange program with what was then Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, attending the IU Maurer School of Law, to ultimately becoming a key leader at the U.S. division of a global industrial automation company. Marisol also discusses her experience clerking for Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Randall Shepard, moving into private practice, and then launching the in-house legal department at Endress+Hauser.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with one of Indiana's most dynamic entrepreneurs, Justin Christian, founder and CEO of BCforward, one of the largest Black-owned businesses in the United States. A New York native, Justin came to Indiana to study music at DePauw University before shifting to computer science, which led to a job at Eli Lilly and Co. before he launched his own IT consulting firm. He and his business partner started BCforward with just $1,500, growing it into a global enterprise now with 5,000 employees. Justin discusses his path to entrepreneurship, his leadership philosophy, and the importance of diversity in business. He also shares how he and his wife, Darrianne, support their community through initiatives like the Justin and Darrianne Christian Center for Diversity and Inclusion at DePauw University.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with one of Indiana's most dynamic entrepreneurs, Justin Christian, founder and CEO of BCforward, one of the largest Black-owned businesses in the United States. A New York native, Justin came to Indiana to study music at DePauw University before shifting to computer science, which led to a job at Eli Lilly and Co. before he launched his own IT consulting firm. He and his business partner started BCforward with just $1,500, growing it into a global enterprise now with 5,000 employees. Justin discusses his path to entrepreneurship, his leadership philosophy, and the importance of diversity in business. He also shares how he and his wife, Darrianne, support their community through initiatives like the Justin and Darrianne Christian Center for Diversity and Inclusion at DePauw University.

IBJ Media CEO Nate Feltman speaks with Scott Dorsey, co-founder and managing partner of High Alpha, a leading venture capital firm based in Indianapolis that creates and funds B2B SaaS companies. Dorsey shares his journey as founder of ExactTarget, a pioneering digital marketing company. ExactTarget's meteoric rise included developing its unique "Orange Culture," going public on the New York Stock Exchange, and being acquired by Salesforce for $2.5 billion in 2013. The conversation delves into the challenges and successes of building a successful business, Dorsey's passion for fostering entrepreneurship, and his efforts to strengthen Indiana's tech ecosystem through High Alpha. He also discusses his commitment to education through his nonprofit Nextech and the importance of civic engagement.   Facebook: facebook.com/IBJMediaGroup X: x.com/ibj_media Instagram: Instagram.com/ibjmedia LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ibjmedia IBJ Media: https://www.ibjmedia.com/ Indiana 250 website: https://www.indiana250.com/  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Chuck Surack, founder of Surack Enterprises and Sweetwater Sound. Chuck shares his journey from touring the country as a saxophonist and keyboard player with several bands and then eventually starting Sweetwater Sound, one of the world's largest retailers of musical instruments and audio equipment. After selling a controlling interest in Sweetwater in 2021, Chuck has focused on various entrepreneurial ventures and philanthropy.  Today Surack Enterprises includes companies in aviation, real estate development, hospitality, eyecare and sports.  Chuck has been a major player in the redevelopment of Fort Wayne's downtown and a supporter of music education in Northeast Indiana.  Chuck also shares his thoughts on the decision to close Indy's downtown heliport and the future of professional soccer in Indiana.   Facebook: facebook.com/IBJMediaGroup X: x.com/ibj_media Instagram: Instagram.com/ibjmedia LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ibjmedia IBJ Media: https://www.ibjmedia.com/ Indiana 250 website: https://www.indiana250.com/ 

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Dr. Richard DiMarchi, Indiana University Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Gill Chair in Biomolecular Sciences.  A distinguished scientist and entrepreneur,  Dr. DiMarchi's groundbreaking diabetes research while at Eli Lilly and Company laid the foundation for the new class of obesity drugs that today are transforming lives worldwide.  Since his retirement from Lilly, Dr. DiMarchi has co-founded six biotech companies, including MBX Biosciences which recently went public.  With more than 100 U.S. patents and numerous accolades, including an induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, Dr. DiMarchi shares insights into his career journey, the impact of mentorship, the future of biotechnology, and the essential role of diversity and innovation in advancing medical research.  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Bob Hicks, chairman and managing partner of Taft Law Firm.  Bob takes a deep dive into the strategies and philosophy that have shaped Taft's growth from 400 lawyers to over 1,000 under his leadership.  A Hoosier native, Bob talks about growing up in Indianapolis, his decision to pursue both an accounting and law degree, mentors who have impacted his leadership philosophy, and his early career experiences as a business lawyer working for a high growth company and how that experience shaped his growth mindset.   Bob also shares his thoughts on the future of big law and how will AI impact the legal profession.    Check out and subscribe to the video version of the podcast here

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Herb Simon, owner of Pacers Sports Entertainment and a legend in the real estate development industry. Herb discusses his storied career, from founding Simon Property Group with his brother Melvin to rescuing the Indiana Pacers. He shares his experiences being inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, and reflects on the growth of both the NBA and WNBA franchises under his ownership. Herb also talks about his contributions to the revitalization of downtown Indianapolis and the impact of having Caitlin Clark join the Indiana Fever.    Check out and subscribe to the video version of the podcast here  

After a fantastic season one, we are taking a few weeks break while we ramp up for Off the Record Season two. The Season two Off the Record show will now be available in video and will feature our new IBJ Media podcast studio. We have some amazing guests joining us in season two. You won't want to miss our season opener with Herb Simon, owner of Pacers Sports & Entertainment and recent inductee into Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Listen to full length episodes that we highlighted from Season One Off the Record with Mike Pence  Off the Record with Mung Chiang Off the Record with Jim Ryan Off the Record with Pam Whitten 

After a fantastic season one, we are taking a few weeks break while we ramp up for Off the Record Season two. The Season two Off the Record show will now be available in video and will feature our new IBJ Media podcast studio. We have some amazing guests joining us in season two. You won't want to miss our season opener with Herb Simon, owner of Pacers Sports & Entertainment and recent inductee into Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Listen to full length episodes that we highlighted from Season One   Off the Record with Mitch Daniels Off the Record with Jim Morris  Off the Record with Karrah Herring  Off the Record with Dennis Murphy

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Vanessa Green Sinders, President and CEO of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. Vanessa takes a deep dive into her extensive background in public affairs and executive leadership roles including her time working for two U.S. Senators and the non-partisan organization Campaign to Fix the Debt. Now leading the state's largest business advocacy group, Vanessa discusses what it means to be the first female leader of the Indiana Chamber, the IN Prosperity 2035 economic vision plan, and what she views as Indiana's ongoing opportunities and challenges.  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman sits down with Mario Rodriguez, Executive Director and CEO of the Indianapolis Airport Authority. Born to Cuban immigrants in Brooklyn and raised in Miami, Mario opens up about his upbringing and unique perspective as a first generation American.  The discussion takes a deep dive into Mario's incredible journey from captaining boats to his extensive leadership experience in the aviation industry.  Celebrating ten years at the helm of the Indianapolis International Airport, Mario shares what sets this IND apart, the team's community-driven approach, and upcoming projects like the new airport hotel. Mario also gives insights into the challenges of airport leadership particularly in the face of natural disasters such as his experience during Hurricane Katrina while in New Orleans and navigating the COVID pandemic.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Jefferson Shreve, an accomplished entrepreneur and the Republican nominee for Indiana's 6th congressional district. Shreve discusses his path from founding Storage Express in 1993 to selling it to Extra Space Storage, Inc. in 2022.  He also shares how his educational background in political science, international diplomacy, and agribusiness has prepared him for the job he is currently pursuing in Congress.  The discussion also touches on Shreve's motivations for entering politics, his experience serving on the Indianapolis City County Council, his challenges in the mayoral race, and his current congressional campaign. 

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman sits down with Marianne Glick, a prominent Indianapolis philanthropist, businesswoman, and artist. The discussion revolves around the Glick family's philanthropic initiatives, including the impactful TeenWorks program, the Housing Foundation, Glick Training Associates, and her recent gift and involvement with the Founders College at Butler University. Marianne shares insights into her upbringing, her first experiences in her family's business, and her path to continuing her family's legacy. Marianne also discusses her passion for art, and her contributions to public art in Indianapolis including the Indianapolis Cultural Trail and the Glick Peace Walk. 

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with the 48th Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence. The discussion takes a deep dive into Pence's extensive career in politics, highlighting key moments from his years in congress, as governor of Indiana and as Vice President of the United States.  He discusses in-depth the defining days and hours leading up to his certification of the 2020 election results, as well as his experiences working with President Donald Trump.   We also delve into the current state of the Republican party and its future.  The conversation also touches on Vice President Pence's personal life, his proudest moments in office and his experiences with the Secret Service. Vice President Pence shares his guiding principles and leadership lessons that couldn't be more timely given today's tumultuous political environment.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Christopher 'Toph' Day, CEO of Elevate Ventures. Toph shares his journey from growing up on a farm outside Lafayette, Indiana to becoming a serial entrepreneur, co-founding a number of successful businesses across multiple sectors while establishing himself as a leader in the venture capital space. Toph takes a deep dive into his entrepreneurial experiences, the pivotal role of partnerships, and what drew him to Elevate Ventures, one of the most active venture capital firms in the country.  The discussion also touches on Rally, a three-day global innovation conference, highlighting its $5 million pitch competition.  Toph also shares insights on the current entrepreneurial climate, ideas for driving the state forward, and why he refers to Indiana as the innovation capital of the world.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Jim Ryan, Chairman and CEO of Old National Bank, the largest bank headquartered in Indiana.  Jim discusses his leadership style and Old National Bank's acquisition strategy which has propelled them to one of the largest banks in America under Jim's leadership.  Jim shares insights into his journey from an intern to CEO, emphasizing the importance of communication and relationship building, company culture and values. The conversation also touches on Jim's leadership in the Evansville region, including significant economic development initiatives such a riverfront development and his view of how Indiana can continue to grow and thrive.  And you'll learn about Jim's dream of completing the 6,000-mile Great Loop!

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Claire Fiddian-Green, President and CEO of the Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation. Claire highlights the Foundation's history and mission and takes a deep dive into specific current initiatives such as establishing a youth apprenticeship program, CEMETS iLab, and College Matters, all designed to improve education and workforce outcomes amid challenging trends.  Their discussion also touches on the Foundation's focus on Hoosiers' health, the opioid crisis, and the development of programs around treatment and prevention.  Claire also shares her journey from South Africa to Indiana, her diverse career including stints in the corporate, non-profit, and government sectors, as well as her extensive engagement in the community and philosophy on leadership, service, and work life balance.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Scott Davison, President and CEO of OneAmerica. Scott shares his passion and decades of experience with swimming, ultimately leading to his current role as co-chair of the 2024 US Olympic Swimming Team Trials taking place in Indianapolis this month.  Scott takes a deep dive into the preparations in and around Lucas Oil Stadium, as well as all the activities happening downtown in connection with the Swimming Trials, expecting to bring in a quarter of a million people and $100 million of economic impact. Scott discusses the long history of Indiana's swimming culture and the Legacy Project taking place in conjunction with the Swimming Trials, having a multigenerational impact on Hoosiers for years to come.  The discussion also delves into Scott's extensive experience in the insurance industry, his leadership at OneAmerica, and his philanthropic efforts such as the Personalized Learning Center at Marion University.  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Melina Kennedy, CEO of Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP). Melina discusses her extensive work in business, government, politics, and nonprofit over the last 25 years as well as her current role and its focus on growing key sectors of Indiana's economy. Having grown up in Chicago, Melina reflects on her upbringing, what brought her to Indiana, as well as what led her to make Indiana her permanent home.  Melina takes a deep dive into the importance of attracting and retaining young talent in Indiana, the opportunities unique to the state, and CICP's efforts through its public awareness campaign, See Yourself IN.   Melina also shares important lessons learned through her experiences growing up and throughout her career, her extensive international travel, and individuals having a lasting impact on her career development.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Bob Vitoux, CEO of OrthoWorx, an organization aimed at maintaining Warsaw, Indiana's status as the Orthopedic Capital of the World. They delve into Bob's extensive background in the orthopedics industry, his journey from public accounting to leading OrthoWorx, and the history and significance of the orthopedic sector in Warsaw. They discuss the origins of the industry in the late 1800s, the impact of key figures like Dane Miller, and the role of OrthoWorx in fostering innovation and talent retention within the industry.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Mickey Maurer, a distinguished member of the inaugural Indiana 250 class and a prominent figure in Indiana's business and philanthropic communities. They explore Mickey's multifaceted career, from his beginnings in an entrepreneurial family in Indianapolis to his impactful roles in state government, media, and beyond. Mickey's journey includes serving as the first president of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation under Governor Mitch Daniels, a successful stint in law, and his adventures in entrepreneurship which span various industries such as cable television, banking, filmmaking, books, and newspapers. He also shares insights into his failure at retirement, his passion for philanthropy exemplified by Mickey's Camp, and his noteworthy contributions to education and local communities.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Ersal Ozdemir, founder of the commercial real estate company Keystone Group and founder of the Indy Eleven professional soccer team. Ersal shares his journey from Turkey to Indiana, his path to Purdue University, and his decision to establish a life and business in Indianapolis. We discuss his involvement in some of the most significant real estate developments in central Indiana, including downtown office conversion to residential and mixed-use developments, how his passion for soccer led him to start the professional soccer franchise Indy Eleven, and his future plans, including Eleven Park which will include a world-class soccer stadium.  Finally, Ersal reflects on the vital role sports and quality living environments play in enhancing a city's attractiveness for attracting and retaining talent.  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Jim Morris, Vice Chair of Pacer Sports & Entertainment. Jim reflects on his influential leadership journey in Indianapolis and beyond and shares insights from his time as Chief of Staff for Mayor Richard Lugar, highlighting Lugar's inclusive leadership and commitment to community building. He discusses the importance of a vibrant downtown and the success of Indianapolis' sports strategy in transforming the city's reputation and economy, his experience at the United Nations World Food Program, the significance of the separation of IUPUI into two distinct university campuses, and emphasizes the value of building relationships and bipartisanship for the collective advancement of Indianapolis.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Sue Ellspermann, former Indiana Lieutenant Governor and current President of Ivy Tech Community College, the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system. Sue shares her leadership journey, covering her experiences working with Fortune 500 companies, running her own consulting business, serving in politics, and later leading Ivy Tech. She emphasizes Ivy Tech's role in providing high-quality, affordable education and their commitment to meeting Indiana's workforce needs. They also touch on the Green to Gold partnership with Purdue, the Nursing Indiana Back to Health program, the importance of self-leadership, and the need for more initiatives like the Stellar Communities program for community development.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Rafael Sanchez, Executive Vice President, Chief Impact Officer, and Indianapolis Market President for Old National Bank. They discuss Rafael's journey from Puerto Rico to Indiana, his transition from law to business, and his role as co-chair of the 2024 NBA All Star Game taking place this weekend in Indianapolis. Rafael discusses the importance of community engagement, his leadership lessons, and his philosophy for seeking out new opportunities. 

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Paul Mitchell, President and CEO of the Energy Systems Network and head of the Indy Autonomous Challenge. In their discussion, Paul touches on his upbringing as well as his experiences as a lead singer in a rock band while attending college and grad school.  Paul discusses his work with Governor Mitch Daniels and the experiences and lessons learned that have served him well throughout his career.  The discussion also explores Paul's interest and involvement in the future of energy and alternative energy sources, electronic vehicles, his insights on the convergence of technology in different sectors, and the Indy Autonomous Challenge.  Paul also shares his thoughts on what is needed for Indiana to continue to compete and thrive.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Allison Melangton, Senior Vice President at Penske Entertainment. In their discussion, Allison shares stories of her upbringing, the opportunity, vision, and passion that led her to pick up and move to Indiana without ever having visited the state previously, as well as her thoughts on what sets Indianapolis and Indiana apart from anywhere else in the country. Allison takes a deep dive into various major sporting events in Indianapolis over the last three decades, including the 100th running of the Indy 500 and the 2012 Super Bowl. She also covers her civic involvement in community service projects, her philosophy on volunteerism and philanthropy, as well as the importance of leadership alignment and partnership in the sports industry. 

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with the Dean of the Notre Dame Law School, Marcus Cole. In their discussion, Marcus shares personal stories as a son of immigrants growing up in Pittsburgh, how lawyers have “super powers,” his journey to becoming a law professor, and his work on religious liberty and international initiatives at Notre Dame.  Their discussion also touches on important topics such as freedom of speech on college campuses, Marcus' philosophy of having an impact on the world, his personal perspective on leadership, underscoring the importance of doing what's right rather than what's popular.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Kevin Brinegar, the outgoing CEO of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. They discuss Kevin's 31-year-long journey with the Chamber and his key contributions to improving the state's business and economic climate. Kevin shares his insights about the evolution of Indiana's political landscape, highlighting the major policy changes he helped drive, and emphasizing the crucial issue of workforce development. They also touch upon strategic governmental reforms, the challenges posed by rapid technological change and the importance of realizing the goals set forth in the Chamber's 'Indiana Prosperity 2035' plan.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Mung Chiang, President of Purdue University. In their discussion, Chiang discusses his path to Purdue, the university's impressive commitment to controlling tuition, and the many initiatives that are unfolding under his leadership, including plans for the Indianapolis campus. They delve into the institution's expansion plans, its impressive rankings, and how Purdue's expertise in tech development and research are assets in Indiana's economic development efforts. They also touch upon Indiana's many attributes, including being ranked as the best state to start a business.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with former Indiana Governor and Purdue University President Mitch Daniels. The discussion revolves around Daniels' illustrious career, including his roles with Senator Richard Lugar, Chief Political Advisor to President Ronald Reagan and Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President George W. Bush. Daniels discusses his work as Indiana's Governor, his transformative tenure at Purdue University, and his insights on the future of Indiana. The conversation also touches on ideas to further Indiana's economic development and Daniels' post-Purdue retirement activities.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Dennis Murphy, CEO of IU Health, the largest health system in our state. During the conversation, Dennis shares about his upbringing, the journey that led him to become a healthcare leader, and talks through his experience in a leadership role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dennis gives a detailed update on the transformational IU Health building project downtown as well as long term plans to aid in improving the neighborhood, ultimately leading to a healthier city. The conversation also touches on the role IU Health plays in the health of all Hoosiers, as well as his personal passion for service, and the common thread of a notion of purpose that runs through the IU Health community. Dennis gives his thoughts on what sets Indianapolis, and Indiana, apart from other places he has lived and why he and his family are Hoosiers for life.  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Earl Goode, chief of staff to Governor Eric Holcomb, and former chief of staff to Governor Mitch Daniels. In only his 2nd interview in his 15 years of public service, Earl opens up about his title as the longest-serving chief of staff in Indiana history as well as the significant role he has played in lasting statewide initiatives.  The conversation also touches on Earl's personal journey from Kentucky to Indiana, the decisions that led to his career in public service following 39 years in the private sector, and his thoughts and involvement in promoting and supporting next-generation leaders.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Karrah Herring, Indiana's very first Chief Equity, Inclusion, and Opportunity Officer, appointed in Nov 2020. Karrah takes a deep dive into her role, discusses her team's accomplishments, and lays out her vision and what she hopes to accomplish in the remaining 14 months of the Holcomb administration. Karrah talks about the importance of systemic change, discusses her interest in education reform, and shares personal anecdotes that help explain her leadership style and core values. The conversation reveals her aspirations for creating an infrastructure that will continue to make Indiana a more inclusive state for years to come.  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Emil Ekiyor, founder and CEO of InnoPower, Inc. In their discussion, Emil shares his experience moving from Nigeria to the United States alone as a 15-year-old boy and the opportunities that followed, including a college football scholarship and six years playing in the NFL. Emil reflects on the skills he learned through sports that played a key role in starting several businesses and talks about people who helped him develop his leadership style and work ethic. Emil also discusses InnoPower's mission to drive innovation and economic growth in predominantly Black communities and its partnership with TechPoint to increase minority representation in the tech sector. Emil touches on life as a parent and what led him to decide to make Indiana his permanent home following his NFL career.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Rick Fuson, CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Anticipating his upcoming 40th anniversary with the Pacers, Rick discusses his most influential mentors and their impact on his leadership style. Rick touches on downtown Indianapolis developments, including Gainbridge Fieldhouse upgrades and the transformative Bicentennial Unity Plaza, as well as the upcoming 2024 NBA All-Star Game as a global showcase and the positive impacts on the city. Rick also shares some of his encounters with notable figures throughout his career, including Magic Johnson, the Dalai Lama, Harrison Ford, and others. Reflecting on the incredible development of our city and state over the years, Rick gives his thoughts on what is needed to continue to drive us forward as a great place to live and work.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Melissa Proffitt, partner in charge of client relations at Ice Miller.  As a prominent community leader, Melissa discusses her extensive involvement in community organizations, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership and political engagement. Melissa also talks about growing up in Indiana, why she will never move out of the state, and the impact that her alma mater, Indiana University, had on the trajectory of her career.  She also gives a preview of what's coming for the Indy Chamber and the important work that is taking place this very week.  

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Pamela Whitten, the 19th president of Indiana University. She discusses her unlikely journey to becoming a university president, her belief that everyone should have the opportunity to attend college and her core values as a leader, which include doing what's right, being innovative and embracing non-traditional ways of thinking. She also talks about IU's plans to develop its Indianapolis campus now that the school is decoupling from Purdue University and making the school an economic driver for Indianapolis. And she explains how she became a big sports fan.

In this episode of Indiana 250 Off the Record, host Nate Feltman talks with Brad Chambers about his more than two years as Indiana's secretary of commerce and his decision to run for office for the first time. Chambers highlights the state's record-setting job creation and investment numbers, which he credits to a focus on quality jobs over quantity, a commitment to telling Indiana's story and an updated economic development toolkit. He also discusses his decision to step down from his role and his plans to run for governor of Indiana.

Off the Record with the Indiana 250 is an upcoming podcast from IBJ Media and will feature the state's most influential business and community leaders. Check back most Thursdays to hear IBJ Media CEO Nate Feltman interview some of Indiana's most interesting and successful leaders about their careers, their public service and what they think about living and working in Indiana.