Behind the Region

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 Today we’re joined by Michelle Bryant from Premier Planning Partners. Michelle brings a wealth of experience in financial planning, leadership, and helping individuals and businesses prepare for long-term success.

In this episode, we’ll talk about financial confidence, planning for the future, and the important role strong businesses and smart leadership play in building a thriving region. Michelle also shares insights from her professional journey and what she’s seeing in today’s economic landscape.

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Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce, where we explore the leaders, ideas, and innovations shaping our region’s future.

Today, we’re joined by Brian Pappas, Chancellor of Indiana University South Bend. Chancellor Pappas has been a strong advocate for higher education, workforce development, and community partnerships across Northern Indiana. In this conversation, we’ll discuss the evolving role of regional universities, how IUSB is preparing students for today’s workforce, and the opportunities ahead for South Bend and the surrounding region.

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Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber where we explore the leaders, ideas, and institutions shaping the future of our region.

Today we’re joined by Dee McDonald, president of Bethel University. In this conversation, we’ll talk about the evolving role of higher education in regional growth, how Bethel is preparing students for today’s workforce, and why collaboration between education, business, and community leaders matters more than ever.

We’ll also hear Dee’s perspective on leadership, innovation, and what makes the South Bend region a place where students, employers, and families can thrive.

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Today’s episode features a special guest with deep ties to both our region and the national stage—Ian Book. Many know Ian for his standout career at the University of Notre Dame, where he became one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in program history. But his story doesn’t stop on the field.

We’ll dive into Ian’s journey from college football to the professional level, and how his experiences have shaped his work today with OSMC and Golden Legacy Partners. Along the way, we’ll talk about leadership, resilience, and the role athletes can play in strengthening regional communities.

Whether you’re a sports fan, a business leader, or someone passionate about the South Bend region, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

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Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we explore the people, stories, and ideas shaping our local economy and community.

Today we’re joined by a guest who’s bringing a unique flavor—and a lot of passion—to the region’s food scene. Jesse Onate, owner of JC’s Coal Oven Pizza Co., has carved out a niche with his commitment to authentic coal-fired pizza and a dedication to quality that keeps customers coming back.

In this episode, we’ll talk with Jesse about his journey into the restaurant industry, what inspired him to start JC’s Coal Oven Pizza Co., and the challenges and rewards of building a business in our region. We’ll also dive into what makes coal oven pizza so special, and how local entrepreneurs like Jesse are helping define the character and growth of the South Bend area.

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Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we go beyond the headlines to explore the people, businesses, and ideas shaping our community.

Today we’re joined by Jon Backstrom of Backstrom Insurance Group. Jon brings deep experience in the insurance industry and a strong commitment to serving businesses and families across our region. In this episode, we’ll talk about the evolving landscape of insurance, what local organizations need to be thinking about right now, and how strong relationships and trust continue to drive success in a changing market.

Jon also shares insights into leadership, risk management, and what it takes to build a resilient business.

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Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we go beyond the headlines to explore the people, ideas, and businesses shaping our region’s future.

In this episode, we’re joined by Vahid Sadrzadeh, co-founder of VSR Media. Vahid shares his journey into media, storytelling, and entrepreneurship—along with insights on how video and digital content are transforming the way businesses connect with their audiences.

We dive into:

•  The power of storytelling in today’s marketing landscape 
•  How businesses can leverage video to stand out 
•  Trends shaping the future of media and content creation 
•  Lessons learned from building a creative business in the region 

As always, this is a candid conversation with one of the leaders helping drive innovation and growth across Northern Indiana.

Vahid has built a reputation for his passionate and insightful coverage, including his work following Notre Dame football, where he brings fans closer to the action with thoughtful analysis and storytelling. 

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Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we explore the people, partnerships, and ideas shaping our community’s future.

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Lauryn Brown and Jamie Brown of the National Youth Advocate Program—an organization dedicated to strengthening families, supporting youth, and building healthier communities through compassionate, community-based services.

Lauryn and Jamie bring powerful insight into the challenges facing young people today, as well as the innovative approaches their organization is using to create meaningful, lasting change. From advocacy and mentorship to family support and community collaboration, their work is making a real difference across our region and beyond.

We’ll talk about their mission, the impact they’re seeing on the ground, and how partnerships with local organizations and leaders are helping expand opportunities for youth and families right here in our community.

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Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we spotlight the people, places, and ideas shaping our community.

Today, we’re excited to bring you a conversation that blends local entrepreneurship, hospitality, and the unique charm that makes our region feel like home.

Joining us are Safe and Amanda Brewer, the faces behind Brickhaven Inn, right here in South Bend. They’ve created more than just a place to stay—they’ve built an experience that reflects warmth, creativity, and a deep connection to the community.

We’ll talk about their journey, what inspired them to start Brickhaven Inn, the challenges and rewards of running a boutique hospitality business, and how they’re helping put South Bend on the map for visitors and locals alike.

So whether you’re a business leader, a community supporter, or just someone who loves a good story, this episode is for you.

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Welcome to Behind the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we take you inside the stories, strategies, and people shaping our local business community.

Today’s episode features a conversation with Amy Bateson, the driving force behind Magnify Custom Apparel and Design. Amy has built her company around creativity, community connection, and helping organizations bring their brands to life through custom design and apparel solutions.

In this episode, we’ll explore Amy’s entrepreneurial journey after leaving the corporate world. What it takes to stand out in a competitive industry, and how Magnify Custom Apparel and Design is making an impact across the region. From navigating challenges to seizing new opportunities, Amy shares insights that will resonate with business owners, leaders, and anyone passionate about growing in today’s marketplace.