Get IN. with Nate Spangle – Details, episodes & analysis

On today's variety show I sat down with Cheyne Reiter, Get Indiana content manager, to talk about three trending topics in Indiana.

First, the Indianapolis Colts made a blockbuster trade with the New York Jets ahead of Tuesday's NFL trade deadline, acquiring two-time All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner in exchange for wide receiver AD Mitchell and the Colts' 2026 and 2027 first-round picks. The move boosts a Colts defense that is already loaded with talented players like DeForest Buckner, Zaire Franklin, Mooney Ward, Cam Bynum, Kenny Moore II and others.

We then discuss the possibility of Indianapolis getting a downtown casino, where it may be located, economic impacts, and what we would do to make it a one-of-a-kind experience for all who visit.

Lastly, we discuss the evolving media landscape in Indianapolis. Last week, it was announced that Circle City Broadcasting, the parent company of WISH-TV and MyINDY-TV 23, acquired WRTV-ABC from The E.W. Scripps Company for $83 million.

My second guest was Mary Khamis Rowe of Khamis Fine Jewelers, an expert in the diamond jewelry industry since 1978, to discuss in-depth insights on purchasing engagement rings.

Mary guides listeners through the key considerations such as timelines, the process of custom versus pre-made rings, and the types of diamonds and settings available. Emphasis is placed on the four C's – cut, color, clarity, and carat weight – that determine diamond quality.

She also shares tips on budgets and the increasing popularity of lab-grown diamonds. For those seeking sentimental value, she discusses integrating family heirlooms into modern designs. Additionally, Mary provides advice on men's jewelry and popular fine jewelry gifts outside of engagement rings.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit youtube.com/@natespangle.

You are going to learn about:
- What the Colts' Trade for Sauce Gardner Means for the Franchise
- Indianapolis Possibly Getting a Downtown Casino
- Tips for Purchasing Engagement Rings and Jewelry

Thank you to our partners:
ClusterTruck (Use code INDY for 20% off)
Cowpokes

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:28 Indiana News Highlights
01:41 Indianapolis Colts' Trade Acquisition of Sauce Gardner
05:46 Potential New Casino in Downtown Indianapolis
16:26 Circle City Broadcasting Acquires WRTV-ABC
22:07 Interview with Jewelry Expert Mary Khamis Rowe
41:13 Choosing the Perfect Stone: Lab-Grown vs. Natural
41:58 Deciding on the Metal: Gold, Platinum, and Trends
43:00 Understanding the Four Cs: Clarity, Cut, Color, and Carat
45:47 Sizing and Customization: Getting the Perfect Fit
47:44 Payment and Pickup: Financing Your Purchase
51:15 Incorporating Family Heirlooms: Honoring Legacy
01:04:52 Men's Jewelry: Trends and Tips
01:06:19 Gift Ideas: Timeless Pieces for Special Occasions

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

On today's show I sat down with Chuck Surack, the founder and chairman of Sweetwater, the largest online retailer of musical instruments and pro audio equipment in the US.

From starting his career as a musician with a VW bus filled with recording equipment to building a billion-dollar enterprise in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Chuck shares the key milestones and lessons learned along his journey.

Our discussion covers the unique culture at Sweetwater, the impact of relocating talent to northeast Indiana, and Chuck's ongoing contributions through the Surack Family Foundation and Surack Enterprises.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.

You are going to learn about:
- Chuck's Journey from Musician to Building a Billion-Dollar Enterprise
- The Importance of Culture at Sweetwater
- Community Impact by the Surack Family Foundation 

Check out these great clips from the show:
00:39 Guest Introduction: Chuck Surack, Sweetwater
01:47 The Journey from VW Bus to Billion-Dollar Enterprise
02:55 Recording on the Road and Early Challenges
03:53 The Birth of Sweetwater
10:45 The Turning Point: Investing in Technology
15:18 The Rise of Sweetwater: From Local to Global
23:57 Building Relationships and Expanding the Team
38:48 The Sweetwater Culture and Vision
40:16 Mail Order Beginnings
40:50 Reflecting on 47 Years of Sweetwater
42:06 Staying Rooted in Fort Wayne
44:46 Selling Sweetwater: A New Chapter
48:40 Pearl Street Arts: A Legacy Project
52:03 Aviation Passion and Business Ventures
54:21 Indy Eleven and the Heliport Controversy
01:02:14 Rapid Fire Questions and Reflections

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

On today's show I sat down with Jamal Smith, executive director of the Indy Health District, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing health inequity across Indianapolis.

Jamal shares the ambitious mission of transforming five historic neighborhoods in Indianapolis through health, housing, and community development.

We discuss the extensive plans for affordable housing, increased connectivity, and economic growth supported by crucial partnerships, emphasizing a focus on improving life expectancy and overall quality of life.

Jamal also provides a deep dive into the complexities and collaborative efforts required to revitalize communities for long-term success.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.

You are going to learn about:
- The Indy Health District's Mission 
- Efforts to Improve Life Expectancy and Quality of Life in Indianapolis Neighborhoods
- Revitalizing Communities for Long-Term Success 

Thank you to our partners:
Elements Financial

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:34 Guest Introduction: Jamal Smith, Indy Health District
02:40 Understanding the Indy Health District
04:26 Mission and Vision of the Indy Health District
08:32 Community Engagement and Development
16:05 Affordable Housing Initiatives
23:00 Challenges and Future Plans
33:18 Defining a Health District
34:28 Measuring Success in the Health District
35:01 Housing and Development Challenges
35:47 Collaborating with Public and Private Partners
36:50 Creating a Vibrant Community
37:33 The Role of IU Health's Investment
38:01 Preparing for Indy's Expansive Growth
38:31 Health and Fun in the District
41:21 The Vision for a Central Development
44:53 Why Indiana is Home
47:35 Historical Significance of Crispus Attucks
53:01 The Power of Expectation: A Personal Story
57:20 Indiana's Culture of Collaboration
01:00:07 Innovative Education Initiatives
01:02:50 Conclusion and Call to Action

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

This may be my favorite episode ever… and I am not exaggerating. 

I got to interview Will Schuler, a young entrepreneur who is making waves in Indiana's excavation and utility contracting industry. 

From starting his business in high school to achieving over $30 million in revenue by age 23, Will shares his journey, the values that drive him, and the lessons he's learned along the way. 

We delve into his early inspirations, the challenges of managing a growing company, and his commitment to building American infrastructure and American dreams.

You're going to learn about: 
-How Will's relentless drive set him apart from his peers. 
-His journey to becoming the youngest member of YPO ever. (Min $15m+ in revenue) 
-Tips for building high performing teams.

Thanks to our amazing partners:

ClusterTruck- Use code INDY on your next lunch order. 
J.C. Hart- Looking for an apartment in Indiana? Look no further. 
Back 9 Golf- The go to activity for weekend plans in DT Indianapolis.

Check out these great clips:

01:19 Meet Will Schuler: Young Entrepreneur
02:36 Will's Early Life and Entrepreneurial Roots
04:35 Family Challenges and Moving to Cicero
07:58 Starting in Excavation and High School Hustle
12:27 First Big Break and Rapid Growth
16:26 Balancing School and Business
22:33 Scaling Up: From Small Jobs to Big Contracts
38:24 Building Excel Spreadsheets and Early Business Ventures
38:57 Dating Journey and Balancing Work
40:03 Massive Growth and Key Relationships
41:07 Instilling Passion and Transparency in Employees
45:12 Joining Entrepreneurial Organizations
52:36 Work-Life Balance and Passion for Work
57:38 Reflections on Education and Career Paths

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

I was joined by Indiana's sweet treat king, Janzin Cripe- founder of Chills Delight, an emerging ice cream and donut shop in Northern Indiana that has gained significant attention on social media. 

Starting from humble beginnings in a shed, Janzin shares his journey of turning his small-town business into a popular brand with millions of views on TikTok. 

The conversation covers the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of family support, and the unexpected success driven by phenomenal customer service and authentic social media content.

You are going to learn about: 

• The importance of perseverance and adaptability in entrepreneurship
• How community and support networks can change the game for your career
• The impact of genuine customer service and authenticity
  

Make sure you check out our amazing partners:

Hope Plumbing- The best in the plumbing biz in central Indiana
The Horizon League- Head to the Horizon League B-ball championships on March 10th and 11th at the Corteva Coliseum.
Get Indiana.- Subscribe on Instagram and help us fund more fun Indiana content.  

Check out these great clips:

01:00 Meet Jansen Cripe: The Ice Cream Entrepreneur
01:20 The Journey Begins: From Farm to Ice Cream Shop
02:16 The Early Struggles and Family Support
02:54 The First Steps: Starting the Ice Cream Business
03:41 The Power of Social Media and Customer Service
04:25 Balancing College and Business
06:03 Seasonal Operations and Growth
07:58 Community Support and Expansion
10:07 The Reality of Entrepreneurship
16:07 The Move to a Permanent Location
31:59 Donut Saturdays: A Creative Solution
33:34 Going Viral: The Social Media Boom
34:55 Authenticity and Viral Success
36:07 Customer Service and Business Growth
39:15 Expanding the Menu and TikTok Fame
41:11 Shipping Donuts Nationwide
44:40 Dealing with Negativity and Customer Interactions
48:53 Future Plans and Second Location
52:53 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs
55:05 Fun Questions and Lightning Round

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

I visited the IDDC (Visit Indiana) media marketplace yesterday and I had over 25 amazing conversations with travel and toursim professionals from around the state. 

They shared some amazing stories from their necks of the woods and they were too good not to share with you.

I am going to try to drop more of these short mini episodes about the things I am learning about along the way. 

Please let me know what you think and give me ideas for future topics. 

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

I got to talk with Bethany Gremmel, Director of Culture and Brand Experience at Beck's Hybrids, a leading family-owned seed brand in the United States. 

We cover the history and growth of Beck's, their innovative practices, and how they remain a family-owned business while supporting farmers.

Bethany also shares her personal journey within the company and insights into the importance of agriculture in Indiana. 

You are going to learn about:
-Beck's commitment to customer relationships (and their unconventional practices)
-The significance of agricultural traditions in shaping their success.
-Community impact far beyond the Hoosier State 

Check out these great clips:

02:42 Bethany's Farming Background
05:01 The History of Beck's Hybrids
07:03 The Beck Family Legacy
15:06 Bethany's Journey to Beck's
19:25 Beck's Growth and Innovation
21:38 Customer Experience and Rewards
30:11 Future Growth and Market Expansion
30:49 Exclusive Insider Benefits
31:20 Opportunities for Farmers with Becks
31:51 Keller: Indiana's Trusted Law Firm
32:32 Expanding Becks' Reach
33:18 Fun Agriculture Questions
34:04 Misconceptions About Farmers
36:51 Innovations in Farming
40:03 Advice for Young Professionals
41:33 Lightning Round: Agriculture and Farming
50:09 Indiana's Hidden Gems

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

I  interviewed Amy Peddycord, the founder of Invoke Studio in Indianapolis. We talked through Amy's journey from growing up in Indiana to establishing one of the city's most renowned yoga and Pilates studios. 

The conversation touches on her professional background, the challenges of running a business through the pandemic, and the importance of community and mindfulness. 

Amy also shares her future plans for Invoke, including potential expansions and new wellness initiatives.

You are going to learn about:
- Amy Peddycord's journey from international relations and marketing to opening Invoke Studio
- The impact of the pandemic on small businesses and how Invoke adapted with on-demand and live-stream classes
- The benefits of yoga and mindfulness practices and how to integrate them into daily life

Check out these great clips: 
01:23 Meet Amy Peddycord: Yoga Entrepreneur
02:21 Amy's Journey: From Indiana to New York
04:50 The Birth of Invoke Studio
10:17 Challenges and Growth
16:28 The Impact of the Pandemic
22:36 The Future of Invoke Studio
27:39 Supporting the Community: Coburn Place and More
29:08 Yoga Partnerships and Unique Locations
29:57 Mother's Day Gift Ideas: Warm Glow Candle Company
30:46 The Benefits of Heated Vinyasa Yoga
32:45 Mindfulness and Meditation Practices
38:28 Future Plans and Personal Projects
39:56 Lightning Round: Fun and Insightful Questions
47:03 Entrepreneurship and Community in Indiana
52:43 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

In this episode, I interview BAYEM, a 26-year-old modern pop artist and producer from Indianapolis. 

BAYEM, who has millions of streams and features in film and TV, shares his incredible journey from Indiana roots to a global stage. 

We discuss his early influences, his breakthrough moments, and the evolution of his career with a record label.

You are going to learn about:

• BAYEM's early musical influences and upbringing in Indiana
• The process and impact of signing with a record label
• How BAYEM's music got featured in popular TV shows like 'Sex Appeal' and 'The Kardashians'
  

Check out these great clips from the show: 

00:27 Meet BAYEM: The Rising Pop Artist
01:03 BAYEM's Musical Journey Begins
02:57 Early Life and Musical Influences
03:49 First Steps into Music Production
10:41 Signing with a Record Label
14:34 Breakthrough Moments and LA Experience
22:20 Getting Songs on Hit TV Shows
27:38 First Live Performances
28:56 Indianapolis: A Rap Town with a Pop Phenomenon
30:29 Dream Artists to Open For
32:13 Opening for Ricky Montgomery
33:21 Full Circle Moment at the Peppermint Club
35:50 Future Plans and Musical Inspirations
37:07 Advice for Aspiring Musicians
40:53 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts
45:20 Indiana's Hidden Gems and Notable Hoosiers
47:35 Outro and Final Thoughts

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

I got to sit down with Westfield  Mayor Scott Willis to discuss the city's rapid growth, LIV Golf, and future plans. 

Mayor Willis, recently elected in 2023, delves into the challenges and strategies involved in managing Westfield's development, including the impact of Grand Park and internationally significant events like the LIV Golf tournament and potential FIFA base camps. 

Discover how Westfield is evolving while maintaining its small-town charm, and learn about upcoming initiatives designed to enhance infrastructure, diversify the tax base, and preserve local history.

You will learn about: 

• The economic and cultural impacts of hosting the LIV Golf tournament and potential FIFA base camps in Westfield.
• Strategies for balancing rapid growth with maintaining community identity and infrastructure development.
• The historical significance and preservation efforts in Westfield, including ties to the Underground Railroad and local traditions.

Check out these great clips: 
01:16 Meet Mayor Scott Willis
01:44 Westfield's Explosive Growth
04:53 Challenges of Rapid Growth
07:35 Westfield's Historical Significance
09:34 Mayor Willis' Journey into Politics
12:45 Securing LIV Golf for Westfield
20:36 Future Plans and Major Events
29:14 Annexation and Zoning Challenges
29:45 Predictions for Northern Indianapolis Suburbs
30:15 Collaboration Among Hamilton County Mayors
30:54 Westfield's Dominance in High School Sports
32:33 Attracting Corporate Headquarters to Westfield
33:38 The Impact of Grand Park on Tourism
35:28 Engaging Westfield Residents
36:20 Future Entertainment District Plans
37:51 Mayor's Career Advice and Personal Journey
43:31 Westfield's Unique Attractions and Events
49:28 Challenges and Rewards of Being Mayor
51:01 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.