Get IN. with Nate Spangle

Today on Get IN., I'm joined by Aaron Green, the CEO of Struggle Made Me and creator of Struggle University. Aaron shares his incredible journey from growing up in challenging circumstances in Indianapolis to founding two social enterprises that empower system-impacted youth and families. We delve into his personal story, including the impact of his father's incarceration and death, and how he overcame numerous adversities to become a community leader dedicated to mentorship and entrepreneurship. We also talk about the importance of mental health, coping strategies, and Aaron's ongoing efforts to provide safe spaces and resources for young people. You are going to learn about: The impact of mentorship and safe spaces for youth Aaron's journey of channeling personal struggle into positive impact Struggles and triumphs within the education system Thank you to our partner: Back 9 Golf Check out these great clips from the show: 01:09 Introducing Aaron Green 02:12 Aaron's Early Life and Family Background 03:49 Challenges and Resilience in Aaron's Youth 09:26 High School Journey and Football 17:48 Tragedy and Turning Points 27:19 College Aspirations and Overcoming Adversity 31:54 Forgiveness and Moving Forward 32:14 A Shocking Incident 32:40 College Struggles and Forgiveness 33:31 Football Challenges and Triumphs 34:57 Overcoming Adversity 36:58 Transitioning to Life After Football 41:15 Helping Youth and Families 43:30 Advice for Dealing with Adversity 47:24 Reflections and Future Goals 01:01:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Information 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.

My guest today is Bob Bryant, President and CEO of the 500 Festival. We dive into the rich, little-known history of the 500 Festival, an Indianapolis staple, and its broad impact on the local community. Bob shares insights into the background of the festival, its array of events including the iconic mini marathon, and its educational and fitness programs. We also discuss the unforgettable personal stories associated with the marathon and the community-driven spirit of the festival. You are going to learn about:The history of the 500 festival and Indy Mini Marathon How the 500 Festival enriches lives, and amplifies the cultural significance of the Indy 500. Their commitment to the health and wellbeing of Hoosiers Thank you to our partners: Warm Glow Roots Realty Check out these great clips from the show: 01:15 Meet Bob Bryant: The Man Behind the 500 Festival 02:26 The Origins and Growth of the 500 Festival 09:14 The Mini Marathon: A Running Tradition 16:46 Emotional Stories and Community Impact 26:12 Supporting the 500 Festival: Fundraising and Education 32:28 Gold Star Ceremony and Memorial Service 33:11 Creating the Gold Mile and Honoring Fallen Heroes 34:34 Emotional Impact of the Mini Marathon 36:12 Expanding the Festival to Year-Round Programming 37:22 Youth Health and Fitness Initiatives 38:20 Fundraising and Community Support 42:10 Personal Reflections and Awards 46:11 Final Thoughts and Community Involvement 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.

Check out today's interview with Nick Reich, the executive director of Pack Away Hunger. We got to discuss the organization's mission to alleviate hunger by distributing highly nutritious and cost-effective meals. We explore the history and evolution of Pack Away Hunger, its impact within Indiana and globally, and the unique challenges and solutions associated with food insecurity. Nick shares personal anecdotes from his extensive experience in the social impact sector, emphasizing the importance of relationships, community involvement, and collaborative efforts in creating sustainable change. You are going to learn about:Immediate Needs vs. Long-term Solutions in regards to fighting hunger in central Indiana. Opportunities for service in Central indiana The impact community collaboration can make Thank you to our partners:Warm Glow Hope Plumbing Check out these great clips from the show:01:15 Guest Introduction: Nick Reich 02:18 Nick's Early Career and Coaching Journey 07:22 From Coaching to Social Impact Leadership 10:01 Pack Away Hunger: Mission and Operations 19:11 Challenges and Innovations in Food Security 35:22 Staff and Volunteer Contributions 35:42 Meal Production and Distribution 36:27 Feeding People for 40 Cents a Meal 37:26 Challenges and Solutions in Food Insecurity 40:23 Collaboration and Community Efforts 42:42 The Role of Pack Away Hunger 48:24 Addressing Misconceptions and Future Plans 56:42 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement 01:03:21 Final Thoughts 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.

Today I welcomed Justin Burkhardt, owner of Warm Glow Candle Company in Centerville. If you have ever driven east down I-70 you have seen their 40 foot candle off to the side of the road. We dive into the unique appeal of Warm Glow's handcrafted candles, the company's rich history since its founding in 1996, and its prominence along I-70 in Centerville, Indiana. Justin shares insights on taking over the family-owned business, navigating retail and manufacturing challenges, and the special focus Warm Glow places on community and quality. Additionally, we delve into the process behind their distinct 'lumpy, bumpy' candles, strategic partnerships, and plans for new releases. You are going to learn about:The process of acquiring a family owned business Strategies for creating a must visit destination Secrets of product development and partnerships Thank you to our partners: Keller & Keller Back 9 Make sure you check out their Spring Open House May 2-4th Check out these great clips from the show: 00:31 Meet Justin Burkhart: Entrepreneurial Journey 01:13 The Iconic 40-Foot Candle and Warm Glow's Popularity 01:54 History and Unique Features of Warm Glow Candles 03:04 Manufacturing Process and Quality Control 13:42 Challenges and Rewards of Retail Business 18:31 Community Engagement and Partnerships 22:43 Economic Impact and Future Aspirations 33:38 Balancing Business and Public Service 36:09 Opportunities and Challenges in Rural Indiana 42:06 Promoting Indiana and Warm Glow Candles 42:29 Trade Shows and Candle Industry Insights 43:19 The Power of Scent and Memory 44:52 Upcoming Events and Promotions 46:07 Local Indiana Products and Partnerships 51:32 Favorite Scents and Surprising Bestsellers 01:02:03 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 01:04:32 Celebrating Indiana's Unique Charm 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 the chance to sit down with Matt Mindrum, President and CEO of the Indy Chamber. We discussed the economic performance and future initiatives of Central Indiana. Matt shares insights on how the region competes economically with the Midwest and the rest of the country, highlighting Central Indiana's achievements in GDP growth, net migration, job creation, and closing the racial earnings gap. The conversation covers the importance of workforce development, the role of small and mid-sized businesses, and new initiatives aiming to propel the region forward. They also discuss strategies to market Indianapolis as a destination for talent and business, revealing the ambitious goals and solid plans of the Indie Chamber to make Indiana a hub of fast-paced growth and innovation. You are going to learn about:-The importance of municipal branding and marketing -Indy's plan for workforce development and retention - How different entities are working together to advance central Indiana economic development Thank you to our partners: The HC Tavern JC Hart Check out these clips from the show:01:23 Economic Performance of Central Indiana 02:39 Key Metrics and Business Drivers 03:59 Expanding Central Indiana's Influence 05:53 Challenges and Opportunities in Workforce Development 12:28 Marketing Indianapolis: Embracing the Brand of Speed 24:36 Retaining and Attracting Talent in Indiana 31:51 Support from Government and Employers 32:09 Expanding Apprenticeship Opportunities 33:19 Challenges and Solutions in Workforce Development 34:45 Retaining College Graduates in Indiana 38:11 Promoting Indiana to Boomerangs and New Talent 39:52 Indy Chamber's Initiatives and Future Plans 53:53 Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions 59:25 Conclusion and Gratitude 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.

My guest today is Ryan Hasbrook, founder and CEO of Eight Eleven Group Group, to discuss his remarkable journey from launching a basement startup in Broad Ripple to building a thriving multi-divisional enterprise. Our conversation touches on the importance of trusting and developing young talent, innovative staffing solutions, and the cultural and community impact of Eight Eleven Group Group. Ryan also highlights the company's extensive philanthropic efforts and future visions for Broad Ripple, aiming to turn it into a vibrant hub reminiscent of Broadway in Nashville, TN. You are going to learn about: -Developing young talent -Tips for building a resillent business -Why Ryan prioritizes his local community Thank you to our partners: The HC Tavern JC Hart Check out these great clips from the show: 01:19 Introducing Ryan Hasbrook and Eight Eleven Group Group 02:24 Ryan's Journey: From Cathedral to Entrepreneur 02:46 The Birth of Technical Youth and Brook Source 04:47 Scaling Up: From Local to National 12:25 Navigating Challenges and Growth 21:32 Pandemic Pivot: Contact Tracing and Remote Work 24:40 Building a Legacy in Broad Ripple 29:10 The Decline of Broad Ripple 29:22 Sewer Project Delays and Discoveries 29:57 Impact of COVID-19 and Crime to Broad Ripple 30:31 Revitalizing Broad Ripple 32:15 Broad Ripple High School and Educational Challenges 33:22 Community Safety and Marketing Efforts 35:15 Dining and Business Prospects 36:05 Historical Businesses and Future Plans 36:59 Parking and Public Art Initiatives 38:02 Supporting Local Businesses and Community 40:15 Entrepreneurial Advice and Company Culture 42:08 Philanthropy and Community Engagement 45:38 Training and Development of Young Talent 50:23 Final Thoughts and Local Insights 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.

My guest today is Collin Hilton, the Chef de Cuisine at Cunningham Restaurant Group and recent winner of the World Food Championship. We discuss Collin's journey from competing in preliminary food competitions in Indianapolis to winning the $150,000 grand prize in Bentonville, Arkansas. Collin shares his culinary inspirations, the pressure of cooking for world-renowned judges, and how this win has impacted his career. You are going to learn about: -The arduous process of winning a World Food Championship - A new restaurant concept from Cunningham Restaurant Group - How winning WFC has impacted Collin's life Thank you to our partners: Sports Tech HQ Hope Plumbing Check out these great clips from the show:01:19 Meet the World Food Champion: Collin Hilton 02:11 The Journey to Becoming Mr. Noodle 03:08 Competing in the World Food Championship 05:54 The Road to Bentonville 07:51 Challenges and Triumphs in Bentonville 29:00 Competition Recap: First Round 29:50 Dinner at Meza: Taste and Recreate Challenge 31:10 Recreating the Pasta Dish 34:02 Advancing to the Final Round 36:32 The Final Boss: Culinary Journey 44:18 Winning the World Food Championship 45:37 Reflections and Future Plans 51:43 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks 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.

My guest today is Gerry Hays, a serial entrepreneur, investor, and venture capital professor at the Kelly School of Business. We discuss Hays' innovative new platform, Doriot, which aims to democratize venture capital by allowing retail investors to participate in early-stage startups through venture staking. That officially launces on 4/15. Gerry shares his journey in entrepreneurship, including his past ventures, and details how Doriot plans to eliminate barriers for non-accredited investors. You are going to learn: -An inside look at the venture capital landscape -A deep dive into the risks and rewards of investing -Innovative wealth creation through venture staking Thank you to our partners: Roots Realty Sports Tech HQ Check out these great clips from the show: 01:05 Gerry's Entrepreneurial Journey 02:37 Challenges in Venture Capital 04:23 Democratizing Venture Capital 13:36 Introducing Doriot: A New Venture Model 13:43 How Venture Staking Works 23:54 The Future of Startups and Community Support 26:25 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message 26:47 Introduction to Roots Realty Co. 27:20 Getting Started with Venture Staking 27:39 Understanding the Venture Staking Model 28:48 Retail Venture and Market Potential 29:20 Challenges and Opportunities in Venture Staking 31:14 Funding and Founder Selection 31:38 The Teal Fellowship and Venture Success 37:03 Community-Backed Entrepreneurship 42:34 Practical Financial Advice 46:23 Bloomington's Hidden Gems 48:45 Conclusion 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 chat with Dan Mattingly, VP and owner of NCW, a staffing and recruiting firm predominatly focused on "hammer swinging stuff." (Skilled Trades) We did a deep dive into the company's 25-year journey, including significant growth phases, struggles during the Great Recession, and the key strategies that led to their national success. Dan shares personal anecdotes about joining NCW in 2010, pivotal moments that shaped the firm's trajectory, and the core values that guide their operations. The conversation highlights the importance of relationships in staffing, the challenges of managing a decentralized workforce, and the future directions for NCW in diversifying their services within the construction, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. You are going to learn about: Navigating the challenges of a rapidly growing business Building positive company culture and community impact Opportunities in the skilled trades Thank you to our partners: HC Tavern Warm Glow Greek's Pizzeria Check out these great clips from the show: 01:22 Meet Dan Mattingly: The Journey Begins 01:43 NCW's Early Days and Growth 03:15 Challenges and Strategies in Staffing 08:51 Dan Mattingly's Background and Entry into NCW 12:11 Navigating Early Wins and Expansions 27:47 The Struggles and Lessons of Entrepreneurship 34:49 Impressive Growth and Expansion 35:23 Opening New Markets 37:44 Core Values and Company Culture 39:18 Community Impact and Long-Term Goals 40:22 Competing and Industry Challenges 50:26 The Importance of Skilled Labor 55:24 Advice for the Next Generation 01:00:57 Celebrating Success and Future Plans 01:07:12 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks 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 headed downtown to Elevate Ventures to sit with Toph Day, CEO of Elevate Ventures. We discussed various topics, including driving imperfections out of businesses, the role of AI and data in innovation, and specific Indiana businesses making national waves. Toph shares insights on entrepreneurship, personal habits for success, and the future of Elevate Ventures. You are going to learn about: The necessity of constant innovation Indiana's best and brightest startups and founders The power of data and AI integration no matter what business you are in. Thank you to our partners: Warm Glow Keller & Keller Check out these great clips from the show:01:15 Interview with Toph Day: Elevate Ventures and Innovation 02:56 The Importance of Innovation in Business 03:44 AI's Impact on Business and Education 07:03 Driving Imperfections Out of Business 14:06 Innovate or Evaporate: The Podcast 25:43 The Evolution of Education and Creativity 32:46 Teaching Financial Responsibility to Kids 33:52 Exciting Venture Investments in Indiana 36:08 Innovative Companies Making Waves 39:14 The Rise of Indiana as an Innovation Hub 49:17 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 52:38 Fun Questions and Local Events 54:59 Wrapping Up 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.