WNIT's Economic Outlook

As temperatures rise and travel season kicks into gear, Northern Indiana is ready to welcome visitors looking for unique experiences—from lakeside getaways and outdoor recreation to cultural destinations and Amish Country charm. In this episode of Economic Outlook, host Jeff Rea is joined by tourism leaders from across the region, including Cori Humes (Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bure...

This week on Economic Outlook , we're exploring one of Indiana’s most exciting new tourism developments — the Lodge at Potato Creek State Park. Set in the heart of St. Joseph County, this project marks Indiana's first new state park lodge in over 80 years and represents a major investment in outdoor recreation, regional tourism, and economic development. Jeff Rea is joined by Marie Laudema...

This week on Economic Outlook, we’re joined by PNC Chief Economist Gus Faucher for an in-depth conversation on the current state of the economy. From inflation and interest rates to job growth and consumer spending, Gus shares his expert analysis on what the numbers really mean and how they impact our region. We’ll also explore how global factors like tariff uncertainty and shifting trade dynamics...

This week on Economic Outlook , we’re diving into The Business of Brewing ! Host Jeff Rea sits down with Steve Zuckerman and Eli Cantu of Danny Boy Draft Works, and Summer Lewis of Iechyd Da Brewing Company, to talk about how they got started, what it takes to keep a brewery running, and what’s ahead for their businesses. We’ll also learn about the Sustainable Brewing Program at Kalamazoo Valley C...

George Lepeniotis sits down with healthcare professionals to explore the growing need for workforce development in the medical field. From nursing shortages to training the next generation of providers, this episode dives into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Learn how local institutions are responding, what’s being done to support current workers, and why building a strong pi...

George sits down with the organizers of IDEA Week to explore what’s in store for this year’s event. From hands-on experiences and tech showcases to big-name speakers and networking opportunities, this episode gives you a front-row seat to everything attendees can look forward to. Whether you're an entrepreneur, student, or community member, find out why IDEA Week is one of the region’s most ex...

Join us as George sits down with key players behind the exciting downtown lighting and placemaking campaign in Sturgis, Michigan. From the glow of Electric Alley to colorful murals and revamped gathering spaces, this episode shines a light on how the city is bringing new life, energy, and community pride to its downtown. Discover how a small town is making a big impact through creativity, collabor...

This week on Economic Outlook , J eff sits down with Pete Bevacqua, former Chairman of NBC Sports and current Athletics Director at Notre Dame. With a career leading major sports and media organizations, Bevacqua shares his insights on the evolving landscape of athletics, business, and leadership. How is he shaping the future of Notre Dame athletics? What lessons has he learned from overseeing som...

This week on Economic Outlook , Governor Mike Braun joins Jeff to discuss his vision for Indiana’s economic future, covering key topics like job growth, infrastructure, business innovation, and workforce development . How will his administration drive economic success? What policies and initiatives will shape the state’s growth? Don’t miss this in-depth conversation on the future of Indiana’s econ...

Building Connections, Growing Careers! For young professionals, networking is key—but how do you build strong connections when you’re new to your career or community? This week on Economic Outlook , Jeff talks with leaders of local young professional groups to explore how they’re creating fun, innovative, and impactful networking opportunities. From career growth to community engagement, see how t...

Big changes are happening just east of New Carlisle! If you’ve noticed major construction between State Roads 2 and 20, you’re witnessing a historic development for Indiana—Amazon Web Services (AWS) is building new data centers that will shape the region’s future. This week on Economic Outlook , Jeff sits down with AWS executives Sam Markman and Hillary Lambert to get an inside look at the project...

Mno-Bmadsen, the non-gaming investment arm of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, is driving economic growth and sustainability for the tribal and extended community. In this episode of Economic Outlook, we explore how Mno-Bmadsen is diversifying investments across industries like real estate, manufacturing, and commercial enterprise to create long-term financial stability. Join us as we speak with CE...

In this episode of Economic Outlook , we take a closer look at the state of local public media and how PBS and NPR stations are adapting to a rapidly changing media landscape. We sit down with station managers to discuss the challenges of funding, the shift to digital platforms, and the vital role public broadcasting plays in keeping communities informed and engaged. How are local stations evolvin...

In this episode, we explore the Western Avenue Transformation District project with guests from the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the Housing Authority of South Bend. Learn how this ambitious initiative is revitalizing the Western Avenue corridor, creating affordable housing, and driving economic growth. Discover the impact of strategic investment and community collaboration in sha...

In this episode, we explore the future of the power grid with expert insights from Exelon Corporation's Sunny Elebua, Jeanne Jones who were speakers at Notre Dame’s Ten Year Hence Lecture Series. A lecture series that explores issues, ideas, and trends likely to affect business and society over the next decade. As energy demands rise and technology evolves, what challenges and innovations lie...

In this episode, we dive into the critical issue of affordable housing in Kosciusko County with Steven Meyer of Intend Indiana and Ben Logan of Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County. Together, they share insights on the challenges residents face, the innovative solutions being implemented, and how organizations like theirs are working to provide safe, affordable homes. Learn about the economic...

In this episode, we explore the transformative impact of the $42.5 million in READI 2.0 project funding recently awarded to the South Bend-Elkhart Region. Learn how these investments will shape the future of the community and create opportunities for businesses and residents alike. Don’t miss this insightful look at how the South Bend-Elkhart Region is preparing for a brighter tomorrow!

Step into the excitement of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber's HYPE Pitch Competition! This episode highlights the incredible entrepreneurs pitching their bold ideas to turn dreams into reality. Discover how this competition fosters innovation, supports local businesses, and drives economic growth in Southwest Michigan. From groundbreaking ideas to community impact, you won't want to miss t...

In this episode, we cover Futurecast , a forward-looking event held at Indiana University South Bend. Economists from IUSB's Judd Leighton School of Business and IU Bloomington's Kelley School of Business share their expert insights and forecasts on the economic trends shaping the year ahead. From regional developments to national and global impacts, discover what lies ahead for businesses, commun...

Step into the exciting world of entrepreneurship as we highlight the Founder Factory, a dynamic event designed to empower innovators and aspiring business leaders. This episode dives into how the Founder Factory serves as a hub for networking, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, bringing together startup founders, mentors, and industry experts. Learn how this inspiring gathering fosters innovati...

Join us to learn how the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation is empowering future generations with the Buchanan Promise Scholarship, driving education and economic development in Buchanan.

Today we dive into workforce development with the Berrien Talent Collaborative. Discover innovative strategies for building a stronger, more dynamic workforce, and learn how this collaborative is shaping the future of talent in our economy. Don't miss this insightful discussion on equipping people and businesses for success in a rapidly changing world.

This week Jeff and George speak with leaders in La Porte County to learn more about how growth has been going in the area following the June 2024 announcement of a $1B Microsoft data center project.

We explore and visit the new Mishawaka Fiedlhouse and all that it has to offer and it's impact on the economy in Michiana

In 2012, community leaders launched enFocus, a talent and acquisition effort aimed at transforming the communities it serves and driving economic growth in the region. Twelve years later, we're checking in on the effort and getting an update on the success of the program that serves Indiana and Michigan.