Behind the Region

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What happens when one of the world’s leading technology companies invests in your community?

In this episode, we sit down with Brandon Oyer, PE, Head of Power and Water for the Americas at Amazon Web Services (AWS). He shares how AWS’s $11 billion investment in New Carlisle is driving innovation in power and water efficiency, creating new opportunities for local workers, and helping shape a stronger, more connected future for our region.

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This week, we're putting the spotlight on a name you've likely seen — maybe without even realizing it. From bold building signage to eye-catching wraps, North American Signs has been helping businesses stand out for over 90 years.

 But behind the crisp lettering and striking designs is a family-owned company with a legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and community roots that run deep. 

 In this episode, we sit down with one of the minds behind the brand to talk about what it takes to create iconic signage, how the industry has evolved, and why staying grounded in their values has helped them shine — not just regionally, but nationwide.

This is a story about more than just signs. It’s about visibility, legacy, and lighting the way forward."

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This week, we are talking about more than construction; we are talking about building hope, opportunity, and strong communities. Jim will discuss their latest projects, the power of volunteerism, and how local businesses, including yours, can get involved.

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Dr. Hartley will inform us about UNIFI Autism Care, explain why a company based downstate decided to open a center in St. Joseph County, and specifically why they chose the location they did. What makes UNIFI Autism Care's philosophy so different from other autism care programs, and how did Dr. Hartley decide to make this field her specialty?

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Mark Herriman, President & CEO of United Way of St. Joseph County, breaks down what United Way is and the impact it makes in our community. He shares the biggest challenges the organization is facing today, what excites him most about its work, and his vision for the future. 

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Chris Campbell, President of Centier Bank, and Len Amat, Head of Community Banking, share the remarkable story of a fifth-generation, family-owned business with roots stretching back more than a century. They discuss how Centier has grown from humble beginnings to over 60 branches, how they attract and retain top talent through a strong workplace culture, and what they see for the future of banking.

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Phillip has an inspiring story about how Dean’s became a reality, and an even more meaningful reason behind the name. What motivated him to leave a well-paying job and take the risk of opening his own restaurant? In this talk, Phillip shares the heartfelt journey that led to Dean’s, the passion that drives his homemade menu, and the biggest challenges he has faced from opening day to running a successful business today.

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Greg shares the story of Imagine Financial and how his company approaches insurance in a fresh way. He explains what drives him to leave a highly successful career in the automotive industry to launch his own business, and the factors that influence that decision. As a co-owner with his wife, Chelsea, and a father of four, Greg also talks about how they balance the demands of entrepreneurship with family life, and how they make it all work with ease. 

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Rob shares an inside look at the Mendoza College of Business and the outstanding programs it offers. He highlights the history of the college, its partnership with the chamber, and his perspective on the future, not only for Mendoza but for business schools across the country. 

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Eric Klepper, Head Distiller and VP of Operations of The Indiana Whiskey Company, shares the company’s history and origins, how he became involved, and how his background and expertise prepared him to lead in crafting exceptional whiskey.