Welcome to Inside the Region, the podcast from the South Bend Regional Chamber, where we explore the people, programs, and partnerships shaping the future of our regional economy.

Today, we’re joined by Kate Lee, the Executive Director of Education and Workforce at the South Bend Regional Chamber. Kate works closely with educators, employers, and community partners to strengthen talent pipelines, support workforce development, and ensure our region is prepared for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

In this episode, we’ll talk with Kate about how education and workforce initiatives are evolving in our region, the Chamber’s role in connecting talent to opportunity, and what businesses and job seekers should know as our workforce landscape continues to change.

Let’s get started.

Welcome to Inside the Region,

In today’s episode, we’re excited to take you inside one of the region’s most important gateways: the South Bend International Airport. Joining us are two key leaders who help keep our region connected and moving forward—Julie Curtis, and Patrick Mac Carthaigh.

Julie and Patrick bring insights into the airport’s latest developments, ongoing improvements, and the role SBN plays in driving economic growth across the region. From traveler experience to future expansion, we’ll explore how the airport is evolving to meet the needs of a growing and dynamic community.

So sit back and enjoy this conversation as we go Inside the Region with the South Bend International Airport.

Today on Inside the Region, we are honored to welcome Meghann Redding, the Chief Executive Officer of the South Bend Area REALTORS®. As CEO, Meghann leads the local trade association representing more than 600 real estate professionals across St. Joseph County, advocating for property ownership, professional standards, and community development. 

Under her leadership, the REALTORS® organization emphasizes community engagement, industry professionalism, and policy advocacy — working to influence local legislation and drive positive change for homeowners, agents, and the broader real estate market. 

Meghann brings a deep understanding of both real estate and regional economic development. Her background also includes active involvement with the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, where she specializes in general residential sales.
Women's Council of REALTORS

We’re excited to hear her insights today on current trends in the South Bend housing market, where things stand on affordability, and how REALTORS® are shaping the future of our region.

Joining us is Vanessa Green Sinders, President and CEO of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. Vanessa brings a wealth of experience in public policy, leadership, and economic development. Under her guidance, the Indiana Chamber continues to champion pro-business policies, workforce initiatives, and a thriving environment for employers and employees alike.

We’ll talk about the Chamber’s priorities for the coming year, how collaboration between state and regional partners drives progress, and what it all means for businesses right here in Northern Indiana.

Let’s dive Inside the Region with Vanessa Green Sinders.”

Today, we're thrilled to welcome Stephanie Kabel, Regional Director at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. Stephanie plays a key role in connecting communities, businesses, and state resources to drive long-term success across Indiana — especially right here in the Region.

We’ll dive into how strategic investments, collaborative partnerships, and bold initiatives are transforming Northwest Indiana’s economic landscape — and what it means for businesses and residents alike.

So whether you're an entrepreneur, policymaker, or just someone who cares about the future of our region — you’re in the right place.

Steve Dalton, a municipal advisor with more than 30 years of experience in finance, real estate, and construction. Steve works with counties, including St. Joseph County, and municipalities on bond financing, budgeting, and long-term planning. He’ll help us unpack what these changes mean for homeowners, taxpayers, and local governments here in St. Joseph County and across Indiana.

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.

This week, Alyson chats with Jeff about his role within Visit South Bend/Mishawaka, and the economic impact the tourism arm of the South Bend Regional Chamber has on the area. What are the major tourism events that put the most heads in hotel/motel beds, and what is Jeff most excited about looking ahead? 

Mark will tell us exactly what a Market President at a bank does. He will tell us what makes our market unique compared to other markets, both in Indiana and Michigan. He will give us a view of the local economy from a banking perspective, and what advice does he have for local businesses when it comes to lending?

In this episode, Jeff turns the tables on Alyson and takes on the role of interviewer as they dig into the topic of tariffs. Together, they break down what is happening, how local manufacturers are being affected, and what options may exist to address the challenges ahead.