LaGrange County Chamber Chat Podcast

What if a trail could do more than connect two places? What if it could connect communities, support local businesses, enhance quality of life, and shape the future of LaGrange County? In this episode of Chamber Chat, host Sara Patrick sits down with Jeff Wingstrom, President of LaGrange County Trails, to discuss the vision, passion, and progress behind the effort to create a connected trail syste...

How much of what you’ve been told about health is actually helping you? In this episode of the Chamber Chat Podcast, host Ian Mullen sits down with Andrew Coblentz, Clinical Director and Health Restoration Coach at The Wellness Way – Shipshewana, for a conversation that challenges conventional thinking about health and wellness. Andrew shares his personal journey into the health restoration field,...

In this episode of Chamber Chat, we sit down with Dan Byler, a Westview graduate, entrepreneur, community supporter, and the familiar voice many know as the “Westview Whistler.” Dan shares the story behind building LaGwana from the ground up right here in LaGrange County and reflects on the challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned along the way. We talk about the importance of staying rooted...

What does it really take to turn a small community into a destination? In this episode of Chamber Chat, we sit down with Sonya Nash, CEO of the LaGrange County Convention & Visitors Bureau, to talk about her journey into tourism, what drives her passion for this work, and how she’s helping shape the future of LaGrange County. From sharing what the CVB actually does day-to-day to explaining the...

In this episode of Chamber Chat, we sit down with Zach Hayden of ATA Excellence Martial Arts to talk about how martial arts goes far beyond kicks and punches. Zach shares his journey into martial arts, what inspired him to get involved, and how ATA Excellence is helping students of all ages build confidence, discipline, and leadership skills. From working with young students to shaping strong mind...

In this episode of Chamber Chat, we sit down with the heart behind Liana Wellness for a powerful and honest conversation about what it truly means to feel well. From the inspiration behind starting Liana Wellness to the personal experiences that shaped the journey, we explore how a holistic approach can help women move from feeling exhausted and overwhelmed to becoming “Holistically Strong & B...

Tune in to this episode of the Chamber Chat Podcast as we sit down with Chris Pangborn and Michelle Bloom of Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance. In this conversation, Chris and Michelle share their unique journeys into the insurance industry, what led them to their roles today, and the experiences that shaped their passion for serving others. We also take a closer look at Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance,...

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Jaime Carroll, the new superintendent of Westview School Corporation, to LaGrange County. Dr. Carroll shares her personal and professional journey into education leadership and the experiences that led her to this new role. We also talk about her early impressions of the Westview community, her outlook for the future of the district, and what the first few weeks hav...

🎙️Chamber Chat Podcast | The Story Behind Nate Nisley and EOS In this episode of Chamber Chat, we’re going beyond the framework and diving into the story. Join us as we sit down with Nate Nisley, Certified EOS Implementer, to learn about his personal journey, his background, what first introduced him to the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), and the moment it truly clicked for him. Nate share...

In this episode of Chamber Chat, we sit down with Brett Hahn, owner of Indian Lakes Marketing, to hear the story behind the business. Brett shares his personal journey, the experiences that shaped his career, and the path that ultimately led him to start Indian Lakes Marketing. From early influences to taking the leap into business ownership, Brett opens up about the challenges, lessons, and momen...

In this episode of Chamber Chat, we sit down with Miranda Lambright, owner of Gravel & LACE Boutique, to hear the story behind a unique local business in LaGrange County. Miranda shares her journey, the challenges and triumphs of running a small business, and how she blends creativity, style, and entrepreneurship to make Gravel & LACE stand out. Whether you’re a small business owner, aspir...

In this episode of Chamber Chat , we sit down with Tobi Oxenrider , Executive Director of the Shipshewana Retail Merchants Association (SRMA) , to talk all things Small Business Season . Tobi shares her journey to leading the SRMA, what makes Shipshewana’s business community so special, and how collaboration keeps this charming town thriving year-round. We dive into the importance of shopping loca...

Join us as we talk with LaGrange County Hope , a nonprofit fighting food insecurity in local schools. Hear how their food delivery program is making an impact, building community connections, and helping vulnerable families thrive.

Join us as we sit down with Jeff Reed , Superintendent of Prairie Heights Community Schools , to explore what makes this rural school district unique. From agricultural and FFA programs to career pathways in welding, culinary, and more, Jeff shares how Prairie Heights balances academics, community support, and real-world learning opportunities. Discover how the school serves as a true community hu...

In this episode of Chamber Chat , we sit down with the owner and founder of Lighthearted Candle Company to hear the inspiring story behind her journey as an entrepreneur. From the spark that ignited her love for candles to the leap of faith that turned a passion into a thriving business, she shares the meaning behind the Lighthearted brand, the challenges she’s faced, and the lessons she’s learned...

What does it look like to lead in the place where your story began? In this episode of Chamber Chat , we welcome Traci Blazie , Superintendent of Lakeland School Corporation and a proud Lakeland graduate. Traci reflects on her personal journey into education, the “why” that drives her leadership, and the joy of serving her home community. She also highlights Lakeland’s unique programs, exciting in...

🎙️ Chamber Chat Podcast – From Student to Superintendent: A Westview Story In this episode, we sit down with the Superintendent of Westview Schools — a proud Westview graduate and LaGrange County native who has come full circle in serving the community that raised him. We talk about his personal journey into education, the mentors who shaped his “why,” and the rewards and challenges of leading a s...

🎙️ Chamber Chat Podcast | Episode: Zoning, Community, and Career Paths with Robbie Miller In this episode, we sit down with Robbie Miller , LaGrange County’s Zoning Administrator, to hear her personal journey—from what brought her to LaGrange County to how she found her way into public service and community planning. Robbie shares insights into her role, the responsibilities of the Planning &...

In this episode, we sit down with Andy and Jess Linder, the husband-and-wife team behind Trading Post Outfitters in LaGrange County. After building their careers in Indianapolis, Andy and Jess made the bold decision to return to their hometown and take over a local outdoor business that’s become a staple for adventure seekers in the region. We talk about what inspired the move, what it’s like to s...

In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Riegsecker , Owner and CEO of Blue Gate Hospitality , to explore the heart of one of Indiana’s top tourist destinations. Ryan walks us through the incredible journey of Blue Gate’s growth—from its roots in Shipshewana to becoming a multi-faceted hospitality experience featuring a hotel, restaurant, bakery, and a nationally recognized concert and theater venue...

🎙️ Episode 9 – Exploring Shipshewana Trading Place: A Midwest Tourism Icon In this episode of Chamber Chat , we dive into one of LaGrange County’s most iconic destinations— Shipshewana Trading Place . From its rich history to its evolving role in regional tourism, we talk about what makes this location a must-visit attraction year after year. Our guest walks us through how the auction barn, hotel,...

In this episode, we sit down with Peter and Erica Cook , two of the owners of Cook’s Bison Ranch , to explore the story behind one of LaGrange County’s most unique agritourism destinations. We talk about the rich heritage of the ranch, what it means to carry on a multi-generational legacy , and the experiences that draw thousands of visitors each year. From behind-the-scenes glimpses of life on th...

In this inspiring episode of Chamber Chat , we’re joined by representatives from Bowen Health as we observe National Month of Hope . Tune in as we explore the impactful work Bowen is doing throughout LaGrange County and the surrounding region—providing mental health services, physical health resources, and community-based programs that bring hope and healing to individuals and families. From innov...

In this episode, we’re joined by Bill Purcell , President & CEO of Crossroads United Way , for an inspiring conversation about leadership, advocacy, and impact. Bill shares his personal journey to leading the organization, what fuels his passion for community work, and how United Way is addressing real challenges through advocacy and collaboration. We dive into the ways Crossroads United Way w...

In this episode, we welcome Brandi , a client of The Arc, and Jessika , the Community Employment Coordinator, to discuss the impactful work The Arc of LaGrange County is doing to support and develop the next-level workforce. From helping individuals with disabilities find meaningful employment to partnering with local businesses for a more inclusive workforce, The Arc is making a real difference....