How a 29-Year-Old Army Ranger Became Mayor of Terre Haute | Brandon Sakbun
Release Date: 07/14/2025
The Campfire Jam Session That Started a Band | Greg Hewitt and Ian Illig, Gregorian
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On today’s show I had a backstage pass to meet the dynamic indie pop duo Greg Hewitt and Ian Illig, songwriters of Gregorian. They share their journey from being long-time friends and collaborators to forming their band during the pandemic. They also played an acoustic performance of their song 'Sleep' and provided insight about the emotional and collaborative process of making music. We also discuss the challenges and excitement of organizing live shows in Indiana, emphasizing the importance of local connections and venues. The show wraps up with Greg and Ian sharing their favorite concert...
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From Local Influencer to National Network | Chelsea Kopelman, Keeping Up in Carmel
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On today’s show I sat down with Chelsea Kopelman, the founder of Keeping Up in Carmel and Keeping Up Local, to discuss her fascinating journey from working at Eli Lilly to becoming a successful content creator. Chelsea shares insights on building a life and community in Carmel, Indiana, and the importance of creating valuable, hyperlocal content. She also shares tips for aspiring content creators, the growth of her affiliate network, and how she balances her passions for health, fitness, and faith with her career. Whether you're a local business owner or an aspiring influencer, you'll find...
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His Journey to Find the Best Pizza in Indiana | Tommy Barrett, Indy Pizza Fest
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On today’s show I left craving pizza. Why? My guest was Tommy Barrett, the mastermind behind the first Indianapolis Pizza Festival, dedicated to showcasing the best pizza across the Hoosier State. Tommy shares his journey from starting a TikTok during the pandemic to support local businesses, to organizing a major food event at Monument Circle. Our conversation dives into digital content creation and event planning, along with highlighting community engagement and promoting local culinary spots. You are going to learn about: - Tommy’s Journey on TikTok - Indianapolis’ Inaugural Pizza...
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Small Agency Serving Massive Brands | Ben Seal, The Flatland
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On today’s show I sat down with Ben Seal, founder of The Flatland, a fiercely independent ad agency based in Indianapolis. We discuss Ben's journey from a farm in Pendleton, Indiana, to starting his own agency focused on exceptional storytelling and brand-building. Ben shares insights on the Midwest work ethic, the importance of creative freedom, and what it takes to build memorable and effective brands. Our conversation also delves into the nuances of social media marketing, influencer partnerships, and staying true to one's brand values. You are going to learn about: - Ben’s Transition...
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How Did the Carmel Farmers’ Market Get So Big? | Susan Bock & Randi Roger
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On today’s show I sat down with Susan Bock and Randi Roger, two leaders of the Carmel Farmers’ Market. Susan, the market’s manager, and Randi, the newsletter editor, reveal the rich 27-year history of the market, detailing its evolution from a small community gathering to a bustling hub of over 60 vendors. We discuss the market's role as an incubator for small businesses across Indiana, highlighting success stories like Circle Kombucha and Smoking Goose. Our conversation also explores the market's stringent vendor selection process, ensuring high-quality, locally produced goods. With...
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From Radio DJ to Media Mogul | Adam Grubb, AGM and Stick & Hack
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On today’s show I sat down with Adam Grubb, the founder of Adam Grubb Media and Stick & Hack Entertainment. Adam shares his journey from starting in radio at age 15 to becoming a media entrepreneur. We discuss his early career, including his unique experiences like interviewing Michael Jordan at 17, and his transition into media sales and entrepreneurship. We delve into the importance of core values, team building, and the excitement of continually evolving in the business. Adam also talks about his latest venture, Stick & Hack, an indoor golf club in Fishers. You are going to learn...
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From Small Town to NASCAR | Chase Briscoe, NASCAR Driver
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On today’s variety show I sat down with Chase Briscoe, NASCAR driver from Mitchell, Indiana, ahead of his race in the Brickyard 400. We explore Chase's early racing days, his rise to NASCAR, and his love for Indiana. Dave White, founder of Great White Smoke Barbecue Company, and Bryan Smith, co-found and master distiller at Hard Truth Distilling Co., share the best places to enjoy bourbon and barbecue across Indiana, including hidden gems. The episode wraps up with a fun segment where Cheyne attempts to name as many Indiana towns as possible in 45 seconds to beat yours truly. You are going...
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A New Pipeline for Underestimated Talent—Built in Indiana | Eric Stanley, M2N
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My guest today was Eric Stanley, founder of M2N, a social impact company dedicated to making the workforce more equitable by focusing on skills-based hiring. Eric shares his journey from working at Northwestern Mutual and Johnson & Johnson to scaling Passageways' revenue and launching M2N. Our conversation delves into the importance of hiring based on skills rather than status, the challenges of finding and retaining diverse talent, and the impact of apprenticeships and innovative hiring practices. Eric also highlights the development of the Empower platform, which matches job seekers with...
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From TV Anchor to 2 Million Followers | Kayla Sullivan, Content Creator
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On today’s show I sat down with one of Indiana’s most successful content creators, Kayla Sullivan, a former television journalist who now has over 2 million followers combined on Instagram and TikTok. Starting with a viral video of a mock news report, Kayla used her news background and relatable parenting content to build a large and dedicated following. Our conversation covers her career evolution, the challenges of balancing journalism and motherhood, and her success in monetizing her social media presence. Kayla also shares valuable advice for aspiring content creators and the power of...
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Chasing Olympic Dreams at 16 | Quinn Derheimer, Speed Skater
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On today’s show I sat down with Quinn Derheimer, a 16-year-old nationally ranked speed skater from Greenwood with aspirations to compete in the Olympics. Quinn shares his journey from starting in hockey to discovering his love for speed skating at a young age. We discuss his training regimen in Milwaukee, his experiences competing internationally, and the sacrifices made by him and his family to pursue his Olympic dreams. From his first competitions to training with elite skaters at the Olympic Ice Center, Quinn offers an inspiring look at the dedication and passion required to excel in...
info_outlineOn today’s show I sat down with Brandon Sakbun, the youngest mayor in Terre Haute history, and Sampson Levingston, founder of Walk and Talk Indy.
We discuss various aspects of community development and revitalization in the Hoosier State, highlighting personal journeys and the collective American Dream.
Brandon and Sampson also mention significant changes in Terre Haute, the city’s history, and its future growth endeavors. We cover the role of manufacturing, housing, education, and quality of life improvements in Terre Haute, as well as the importance of public service and local government.
You are going to learn about:
- Development and Changes Happening in Terre Haute
- Brandon’s Journey to Becoming the Youngest Mayor in City History
- The Importance of Public Service and Local Government
Thank you to our partners:
ClusterTruck (Use code INDY)
Sports Tech HQ
Check out these great clips from the show:
01:17 Guest Introduction: Brandon Sakbun, Terre Haute Mayor
01:55 Discussing Terre Haute's Past and Present
04:27 Economic Shifts and Challenges
11:01 Revitalizing Communities and Retaining Talent
14:42 Personal Journeys and Community Impact
20:07 Encouraging Youth and Future Generations
35:52 Growing Up in Indiana
36:27 Army Ranger School Challenges
39:07 Becoming an Army Ranger
40:54 Public Service and Community Impact
42:54 Revitalizing Terre Haute
45:54 The Importance of Community and Education
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