Inside the Region

Today, we're joined by Matt Wetzel, Senior Vice President at Bradley Company. Matt brings extensive experience in commercial real estate, economic development, and regional growth initiatives across Northern Indiana and Southwest Michigan. In this episode, we'll discuss the current state of the commercial real estate market, emerging development opportunities, the factors attracting inve...

Today, we’re joined by Dave Hemler , Senior Director of Experiential Learning and Economic Engagement at iNDustry Labs at the University of Notre Dame. iNDustry Labs is helping to strengthen the connection between higher education and industry across the South Bend–Elkhart region—driving innovation, building talent pipelines, and supporting economic growth through hands-on collaboration with local...

 Today we're diving into a topic that's generating a lot of conversation across the country and right here in St. Joseph County: data centers. As artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure continue to expand, communities everywhere are evaluating what these large-scale developments mean for economic growth, energy demand, workforce opportunities, and long-term c...

Today we’re joined by James Turnwald, Executive Director of MACOG — the Michiana Area Council of Governments. James has been at the forefront of regional collaboration on transportation, economic development, infrastructure, and long-range planning across Northern Indiana and Southwest Michigan. In this episode, we’ll talk about the importance of regional thinking, the challenges and opportunities...

“Welcome to Inside the Region , the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber where we explore the ideas, partnerships, and investments shaping the future of our region. I’m your host, and today we’re joined by two leaders from American Electric Power — Todd Lohenry and Jim Cotter. As communities across the country focus on economic growth, infrastructure, energy reliability, and long-term sust...

Welcome to Inside the Region , the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we explore the people, ideas, and momentum shaping our local economy and community. Today we’re diving into the intersection of talent, opportunity, and regional growth. Joining us is Victoria Molnar from InVets, an organization dedicated to connecting transitioning service members with meaningful careers in thr...

Welcome to Inside the Region , the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we bring you conversations with the leaders, innovators, and changemakers shaping our community. Today we’re taking a closer look at the exciting momentum building across St. Joseph County. Joining us is Bill Schalliol, Executive Director of Economic Development for St. Joseph County. Bill is at the center of ma...

Welcome to Inside the Region , the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we explore the people, programs, and partnerships shaping the future of our regional economy. Today, we’re joined by Kate Lee, the Executive Director of Education and Workforce at the South Bend Regional Chamber. Kate works closely with educators, employers, and community partners to strengthen talent pipelines,...

Welcome to Inside the Region , In today’s episode, we’re excited to take you inside one of the region’s most important gateways: the South Bend International Airport. Joining us are two key leaders who help keep our region connected and moving forward— Julie Curtis , and Patrick Mac Carthaigh . Julie and Patrick bring insights into the airport’s latest developments, ongoing improvements, and the r...

Today on Inside the Region , we are honored to welcome Meghann Redding , the Chief Executive Officer of the South Bend Area REALTORS® . As CEO, Meghann leads the local trade association representing more than 600 real estate professionals across St. Joseph County, advocating for property ownership, professional standards, and community development.  Under her leadership, the REALTORS® organization...

Joining us is Vanessa Green Sinders , President and CEO of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce . Vanessa brings a wealth of experience in public policy, leadership, and economic development. Under her guidance, the Indiana Chamber continues to champion pro-business policies, workforce initiatives, and a thriving environment for employers and employees alike. We’ll talk about the Chamber’s priorities f...

Today, we're thrilled to welcome Stephanie Kabel , Regional Director at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation . Stephanie plays a key role in connecting communities, businesses, and state resources to drive long-term success across Indiana — especially right here in the Region. We’ll dive into how strategic investments, collaborative partnerships, and bold initiatives are transforming...

Steve Dalton, a municipal advisor with more than 30 years of experience in finance, real estate, and construction. Steve works with counties, including St. Joseph County, and municipalities on bond financing, budgeting, and long-term planning. He’ll help us unpack what these changes mean for homeowners, taxpayers, and local governments here in St. Joseph County and across Indiana.

This week, Alyson chats with Jeff about his role within Visit South Bend/Mishawaka, and the economic impact the tourism arm of the South Bend Regional Chamber has on the area. What are the major tourism events that put the most heads in hotel/motel beds, and what is Jeff most excited about looking ahead? 

Mark will tell us exactly what a Market President at a bank does. He will tell us what makes our market unique compared to other markets, both in Indiana and Michigan. He will give us a view of the local economy from a banking perspective, and what advice does he have for local businesses when it comes to lending?

Jeff joins Alyson to highlight the county’s economic development projects, from major initiatives to smaller wins that are making a difference. They dive into workforce challenges and opportunities, discuss the role of tariffs, and explore what is next on the horizon. Listeners will get an inside look at the future projects shaping our community. 

In this episode, Jeff turns the tables on Alyson and takes on the role of interviewer as they dig into the topic of tariffs. Together, they break down what is happening, how local manufacturers are being affected, and what options may exist to address the challenges ahead.