Get IN. with Nate Spangle

Giddy-up! On today's show I saddled up with Jeff Boone, co-owner of Cowpokes Work and Western, an established Western apparel retailer in Indiana. Jeff shares the origin story of Cowpokes, which began in 1993, and discusses the challenges and growth phases the business has experienced over the years. He also dives into the importance of community and the expansion of Cowpokes to a new location in Cloverdale in 2022. Additionally, Jeff touches on his involvement in the auction industry, highlighting his family's long-standing history in auctions and how it has influenced his career. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Founding of Cowpokes Work and Western - How Western Wear has Evolved Over the Years - The Auction Industry Check out these great clips from the show: 00:25 Guest Introduction: Jeff Boone, Cowpokes 01:32 The Founding Story of Cowpokes 02:29 High School Days and Early Inspirations 03:56 The Unique Wedding and Honeymoon 04:57 Taking the Leap: Starting the Store 06:45 Challenges and Early Struggles 11:48 Marketing and Community Support 20:21 Expansion and Moving to a New Location 24:40 The Evolution of Western Wear Brands 34:13 Navigating Economic Downturns 37:25 Transitioning to the Auction Business 38:00 Grandfather's Legacy in Auctions 39:23 First Job in the Auction Business 40:53 Learning the Auctioneer's Chant 45:12 Impact of Online Auctions 53:38 Expanding Cowpokes 56:05 FFA National Convention and E-commerce 58:34 Western Lifestyle and Pop Culture 01:08:51 Hidden Gems 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.

On today's show I had a thorough discussion with documentary filmmaker and media producer Michael Husain about his latest project, 'The Waiting Game.' The 2024 film centers on the story of the Dropping Dimes Foundation, an Indianapolis-based nonprofit that supports former American Basketball Association (ABA) players who are now struggling financially and fighting for their pensions from the NBA. Michael dives into the history and significance of the ABA, the players' contributions to modern basketball, the origin of the Indiana Pacers, the merger with the NBA in 1976, and the ensuing battles these former basketball legends face in their retirement. The film can be found at its website www.TheWaitingGameMovie.com. In mid-February, it will launch as the flagship film of The Reelist Indie Film Club, a brand new streaming service available on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Google TV, and more. Sign up now to be notified of the launch at www.Reelist.Stream. You can also follow The Reelist Indie Film Club on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - 'The Waiting Game' and the Purpose of the Dropping Dimes Foundation - The ABA and NBA Merger - Battles ABA Players Face Today Check out these great clips from the show: 00:54 Guest Introduction: Michael Husain, Filmmaker 01:13 The ABA and Its Impact 03:32 The Merger and Its Aftermath 06:01 The Struggles of Former ABA Players 12:29 The Fight for Pensions 29:02 Uncomfortable Conversations and Struggles 30:53 The Waiting Game: An Independent Film 31:10 The ABA and NBA Merger 31:51 The Save the Pacers Telethon 35:20 Challenges in the Film Industry 37:00 Launching The Reelist Indie Film Club 40:34 The Journey of Making Documentaries 52:20 Indiana's Heart and Soul 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.

On today's show I sat down with Luke Bosso, the director of athletics at Indiana University Indianapolis, and Ben Howlett, the head coach of IU Indy men's basketball. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in revitalizing IU Indy's basketball program and creating a culture of winning. Bosso and Howlett share their personal journeys, strategies for building a competitive team in the current college sports landscape, and the importance of community and alumni support. They also discuss the new James T. Morris arena, its projected opening in late 2026, and how it will enhance the school's sports programs. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - A Culture Shift for IU Indy Men's Basketball - Why the Right College Fit Matters More than Money - James T. Morris Arena Thank you to our partners: ClusterTruck Check out these great clips from the show: 01:26 Guest Introduction: Luke Bosso and Ben Howlett, IU Indy 03:47 Luke's Journey to Becoming Director of Athletics 05:50 Ben Howlett's Coaching Philosophy and Challenges 13:53 Implementing 'The System' at IU Indy 25:50 Recruitment and NIL Challenges 28:38 The Paycheck Dilemma in Sports 29:23 Choosing the Right Fit Over Money 30:08 Challenges of Team Identity and Player Retention 30:46 Fundraising and Transparency in College Sports 33:36 Balancing Coaching and Recruiting 35:25 Building a Winning Culture 42:16 Recruiting Indiana Talent 51:17 Indiana's Basketball Culture and Food 53:45 Favorite Local Eateries 54:31 Fishing and Outdoor Activities 55:14 Indiana Motor Speedway Experience 59:29 The New Stadium and Jim Morris 01:04:43 The Value of Sports for Kids 01:09:40 Hidden Gems and Notable Hoosiers 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.

On today's show I sat down with Kelleigh Fagan and David Holt from CCHA, a law firm with a 145-year history based in Indiana. Kelleigh, who pioneered the firm's nationally recognized sports law practice, and David, COO of CCHA, discuss the complexities of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) in college sports, the evolution of their practice, and Indiana's role in this evolving landscape. They share how NIL impacts athletes and institutions, the legal intricacies involved, and their efforts to maintain integrity in sports. Additionally, they dive into the firm's community contributions and the challenges and innovations in education law. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Complexities and Realities of NIL Deals in College Athletics - CCHA's Role in the NIL Space - CCHA's Sports Law Practice Thank you to our partners: Greek's Pizzeria Check out these great clips from the show: 01:30 Guest Introduction: Kelleigh Fagan and David Holt, CCHA Law 02:12 Kelleigh's Journey in Sports Law 03:08 Building a Sports Law Practice 04:50 NCAA Compliance and Enforcement 06:37 The Evolution of College Sports Law 08:43 Challenges and Changes in College Athletics 15:22 NIL Agreements and Legalities 38:45 High School Sports and NIL Implications 41:34 Discussing Indiana's School Systems 42:59 The Reality of NIL Deals in College Athletics 45:40 Legal and Ethical Implications of NIL 49:34 Innovations in Law Firms 50:50 The Role of AI in Legal Practices 54:02 Honoring Achievements and Community Involvement 01:00:29 Indiana's Hidden Gems and Favorite Spots 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.

On today's show I sat down with Hunter Beale, executive director of High School Hustle, and Jackson Nunnery, a 15-year-old high school entrepreneur. Jackson shares how he started his power washing business, knocking on over 1,000 doors to earn more than $25,000 in just two months. He also talks about his plans for the future and the lessons he's learned on his entrepreneurial journey. The discussion touches on the concept of hustle, the value of entrepreneurship, and the support from High School Hustle, a nonprofit empowering high schoolers to build real businesses. Hunter elaborates on the impact of High School Hustle, their goal to reach 20,000 students in 2026, and the importance of community and mentorship in nurturing young entrepreneurs. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Purpose of the Nonprofit High School Hustle - High School Students Becoming Entrepreneurs with Support from High School Hustle - Success Stories of High School Entrepreneurs Thank you to our partners: Duke Homes Fire and Ice Cafe AccountedFor Check out these great clips from the show: 00:31 Guest Introduction: Jackson Nunnery and Hunter Beale, High School Hustle 01:18 Jackson's Entrepreneurial Journey 01:48 The High School Hustle Program 02:42 Jackson's Power Washing Business 04:50 Defining Hustle and Business Growth 12:42 Challenges and Successes in Door Knocking 22:11 High School Hustle Competition Details 22:50 Verifying Revenue and Ensuring Fairness 26:20 Top Earners and Their Stories 31:27 Engaging Students in Entrepreneurship 34:14 Bold Approach at Purdue Polytech 34:31 The High School Hustle Activation Process 37:02 Memorable Pitches and Success Stories 39:40 Challenges and Goals for High School Hustle 44:36 Entrepreneurial Lessons and College Debate 49:11 The Importance of Community and Support 51:01 Reflections and Future Aspirations 57:23 Indiana's Unique Charm and Hospitality 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.

Nick Smarrelli, director of Butler Entrepreneurship and former CEO turned professor, talks about transforming entrepreneurship education. He covers student-run businesses like Yalla Solutions and Butler’s plan for on-campus companies. He highlights hands-on learning, apprenticeship credit, statewide partnerships, and entrepreneurship through acquisition as practical pathways for students.

On today's show I learned the ins and outs of professional volleyball with Indy Ignite head coach Lauren Bertolacci and player Ainise Havili. The Ignite are one of eight Major League Volleyball teams and play their home matches at the Fishers Event Center. We discuss the rapid growth of women's sports in Indiana, the establishment of Major League Volleyball, and the volleyball experiences of both Lauren and Ainise. Lauren, an Australian-raised volleyball player turned coach, shares her journey through professional leagues in Europe before joining the Ignite. Ainise, a setter with an impressive collegiate and professional background, talks about her transition from playing in Europe to being part of the Ignite. Our conversation also covers the team's inaugural season, ambitions for the 2026 season, game day experience, and community engagement, plus the supportive sports culture in Indiana and possible expansions for Major League Volleyball. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - The Incredible Growth of Women's Sports in Indiana - Major League Volleyball and Its Future - The Ignite's Runner-Up Campaign in 2025 and Goals for 2026 Thank you to our partners: Elements Financial Kelley School of Business Check out these great clips from the show: 01:25 Guest Introduction: Lauren Bertolacci and Ainise Havili 02:33 Diving into Professional Volleyball 04:52 The Journey of Becoming a Professional Volleyball Player 09:33 The Rise of Major League Volleyball in America 21:34 The Inaugural Season of Indy Ignite 23:58 The Future of Women's Sports in Indiana 30:50 Mascots and Fan Engagement 31:02 2026 Season Expectations for Indy Ignite 31:44 Game Day Experience 33:13 Team Dynamics and Roster 34:01 Volleyball in Indiana 36:49 Advice for Aspiring Volleyball Players 38:28 Coaching and Playing 44:10 Living in Indiana 52:06 Favorite Indiana Activities and Places 55:03 Final Thoughts and Season Opener 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.

On today's show I sat down with Mitch Thiem, CEO and Founder of Minor Chores, an all-in-one business software designed to help kids launch and manage neighborhood and micro businesses. Mitch shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from his first business 'Poop Patrol' at age 10, through his career in renewable energy, to founding Minor Chores. You will learn how Minor Chores empowers children by providing them with tools to create websites, generate marketing materials, and invoice customers, all while teaching them valuable business and financial skills. Mitch emphasizes the importance of starting young to foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial in today's AI-driven economy. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Mitch Thiem's Entrepreneurial Journey - How Minor Chores Empowers Young Entrepreneurs - Success Stories of Minor Chores Thank you to our partner: Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance Check out these great clips from the show: 01:36 Guest Introduction: Mitch Thiem, Minor Chores 02:13 The Genesis of Minor Chores 04:56 Expanding the Business: From Poop Patrol to Landscaping 06:37 Financial Literacy and Early Investments 12:28 College Years and Career Path 16:45 The Birth of Minor Chores App 17:48 Features and Benefits of Minor Chores 20:01 Encouraging Entrepreneurship in Kids 28:29 Networking and Early Failures 30:40 Pivoting to a SaaS Product 32:29 Engaging Kids with Gamification 34:45 Success Stories and Lessons Learned 38:25 Balancing Instant and Delayed Gratification 42:14 Community Support and Business Model 46:45 Indiana Roots 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.

Disclaimer: Parts of the conversation you are about to hear are challenging and at times uncomfortable. With that said, we believe it's important to hear stories from every corner of Indiana to better understand our Hoosier neighbors. Vernon Bateman was convicted of crimes in 1998 and served over 20 year in prison and is now pursuing exoneration for the crimes he was convicted of. I encourage you to do your due diligence, there are many journalists who have covered how this has unfolded over the last 10 years. This episode does give a look into what it was like growing up in Gary Indiana On today's show I sat down with Vernon T. Bateman, an Indiana-based artist, author, and activist who spent over 25 years incarcerated. Vernon, raised in Gary, Ind., shares his harrowing journey, including grappling with the justice system and enduring solitary confinement for 13 years. Bateman's resilience shines through as he recounts how creating children's books and murals fueled a movement for him to try and become exonerated. Joined by DePauw University professor Derek Ford, the discussion gets into Vernon's early life, conviction, and his enduring hope and dedication to uplift his community through art. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - Vernon Bateman's Sentencing and Ensuing Years in Prison - How Vernon Learned to Forgive and Persevere - Vernon's Artistic and Storytelling Abilities - What Life Is Like Growing Up in Gary, Indiana Thank you to our partner: Indy Grills Check out these great clips from the show: 01:13 Guest Introduction: Vernon Bateman, Artist, Author, and Activist 02:23 Vernon's Early Life in Gary, Indiana 02:53 Challenges of Growing Up in Poverty 06:22 Tragic Losses and Early Traumas 13:51 Accusations and Legal Struggles 28:22 Life in Prison: Solitary Confinement and Gang Influence 29:23 The Role of Gangs in Community and Personal Development 33:41 Revolutionaries vs. Neighborhood Fighters 34:13 First Time in Solitary Confinement 35:11 Faith and Transformation 36:22 Writing Children's Books in Solitary 40:38 Hunger Strikes and Talk Fasts 42:08 Legal Battles and Recantations 56:11 Release and Parole Challenges 01:06:57 Art as a Universal Language 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.

On today's special nonprofit episode I sat down with Kelly Coker, CEO of Brightlane Learning, and Claire Brosman, Vice President of Marketing and Communications. Brightlane Learning is an Indianapolis-based nonprofit providing personalized academic support and mentoring to students experiencing homelessness and housing instability. Our discussion dives into the challenges faced by these students, the solutions Brightlane Learning has implemented, and their goals for 2026 and beyond. Kelly and Claire emphasize the importance of community collaboration, including partnerships with organizations like Wheeler Mission and A Longer Table. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: - How Brightlane Learning Impacts the Nearly 5,000 Homeless Youth in Marion County - Brightlane Learning's Community Partners and Success Stories - The Critical Role of Volunteers in Helping Fulfill Brightlane Learning's Mission Thank you to our partner: Elements Financial Check out these great clips from the show: 01:36 Guest Introduction: Kelly Coker and Claire Brosman, Brightlane Learning 02:56 Understanding Homelessness and Housing Insecurity 06:09 Impact on Education and Student Performance 07:31 Personal Stories and Connections to Brightlane Learning 13:28 Collaborations and Community Partnerships 16:40 Brightlane Learning's Approach and Success Stories 36:26 The Importance of Personal Connections and Consistency 41:04 Focusing on Student Growth Over Proficiency 41:38 Tracking Student Goals and Benchmarks 42:04 Celebrating Student Success and Alumni Connections 42:50 Community Support and Volunteer Impact 45:08 Brightlane Learning's Future Plans 47:25 Volunteer Opportunities and Community Involvement 49:46 Inspirational Story: Overcoming Adversity Through Wrestling 55:13 The Importance of Community and Mentorship 57:17 Why We Love Indiana 58:23 Addressing Misconceptions About Homelessness 01:07:08 Hidden Gems and Community Collaboration in Indiana 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.