Get IN. with Nate Spangle

Get Indiana.

Get IN. is the podcast focused on Indiana, and the stories of inspiring Hoosiers. Follow along as host Nate Spangle dives into all the things that make Indiana great.

  1. 13H AGO

    Teaching Kids to Think Like Entrepreneurs in an AI Economy | Mitch Thiem, Minor Chores

    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.

    57 min
  2. 2D AGO

    Convicted Criminal Aims to Clear His Name | Vernon Bateman, Artist, Author, and Activist

    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.

    1h 16m
  3. 4D AGO

    Impacting Indiana's Homeless Youth | Kelly Coker and Claire Brosman, Brightlane Learning

    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.

    1h 15m
  4. JAN 9

    The Franchising Cheat Sheet: Growth, Community, and People-First Leadership | Alex Yeater, Franchise Growth Advisor

    On today's show I sat down with Alex Yeater, a business growth advisor with over 20 years of experience in franchising, business ownership, and mergers and acquisitions. Alex shares his journey from teaching and working at Cracker Barrel to scaling a Verizon dealership from 3 to 32 stores and eventually selling it. Our conversation covers Alex's current ventures, including leading development for everbowl in 13 states and co-founding Bowls & Business, a rapidly growing entrepreneurial community in Indiana. Alex also touches on the challenges and benefits of franchising, finding creative financing solutions, and the importance of community and people-first culture in business. 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: - Alex Yeater's Journey in Franchising and Business Ownership - The Challenges and Benefits of Franchising Check out these great clips from the show: 00:50 Guest Introduction: Alex Yeater, Business Growth Advisor 02:01 Alex's Early Life and Career Beginnings 04:26 Transition to Wireless Industry 05:46 Building and Expanding Verizon Stores 07:24 Challenges and Strategies in Business Growth 16:16 Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic 19:16 Decision to Sell the Business 23:05 Entering the Franchise World with everbowl 28:42 Franchising Insights and Strategies 36:01 Identifying Key Demographics for Franchise Success 36:34 Becoming an Expert Franchise Operator 37:02 Pros and Cons of Opening a Franchise vs. Independent Business 38:36 The Concept of Dirty Soda and Its Popularity 39:36 Supporting Local Businesses Through Franchises 39:54 Qualities of Successful Franchise Operators 42:19 Encouraging Entrepreneurship in the Family 46:41 The Dream of a Family Entertainment Center 48:52 Bowls & Business: Building a Supportive Community 51:04 Challenges and Advice for Small Business Owners 55:33 The Importance of Serving Others in Business 01:08:16 Hidden Gems and Future Business Concepts in Indiana 01:09:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Entrepreneurs 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.

    1h 13m
  5. JAN 7

    The 100-Year Legacy of Glover's Ice Cream | Shan Sheridan, David Meek & Tony Reyes

    On today's show I sat down with three of the five owners of Glover's Ice Cream, Shan Sheridan, David Meek, and Tony Reyes. Glover's Ice Cream is an Indiana-based company that was founded in 1925 by Foster Glover. Initially selling ice cream sandwiches on passenger trains in Frankfort, the business has grown to become one of Indiana's last independent ice cream manufacturers. We discuss the company's legacy, its challenges, and the vision for the company's growth beyond its centennial celebration. Shan, David, and Tony also share insights on the ice cream-making process, the importance of maintaining local business traditions, and the impact of community support in keeping the brand alive. 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 Sweet History of Glover's Ice Cream - The Ice Cream-Making Process - Glover's Vision for Future Growth Check out these great clips from the show: 00:51 History of Glover's Ice Cream 01:09 Guest Introduction: Shan Sheridan, David Meek, Tony Reyes 01:37 Foster Glover's Legacy 04:13 The Great Depression and Survival 12:09 Expansion and Purdue Partnership 22:28 Generational Transition 28:13 Challenges in Modern Grocery Systems 30:14 The Arrival of Walmart in Rural Indiana 30:42 Impact on Local Grocery Stores 32:13 Evolution of Glover's Ice Cream 33:09 Expansion into New Markets 34:29 Generational Connections and Nostalgia 37:05 Steve Glover's Exit Strategy 38:09 The Sale of Glover's Ice Cream 39:29 The Polar Vortex Crisis 41:24 Community Support and Revival Efforts 42:08 The New Ownership Group 46:56 Rebuilding and Modernizing 51:53 The First Production Day 58:06 Maintaining Quality and Tradition 01:02:17 The Heart of Glover's Ice Cream: Love and Passion 01:03:16 Community and Legacy: The Importance of Small Town Businesses 01:04:11 Celebrating 100 Years: A Family Affair 01:05:46 Future Plans and Community Involvement 01:08:35 Indiana Pride and Local Support 01:12:53 Why We Call Indiana Home 01:14:27 Dream Flavors and Ice Cream Innovations 01:17:51 The Spirit of Frankfort and Clinton County 01:25:42 Hidden Gems of 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.

    1h 34m
  6. JAN 5

    From the Mailroom to Becoming a Talent Agent in Nashville | Alex Collignon, WME

    On today's show I sat down with Alex Collignon, a Nashville-based talent agent at WME who represents renowned country artists. We discuss Alex's journey from Indianapolis to Nashville, starting in the mailroom and becoming an agent representing acts like the Red Clay Strays and Gavin Adcock. Alex also shares the inner workings of the country music industry, the importance of networking, and significant moments in his career, including winning awards and booking major shows. 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: - Alex Collignon's Journey from the Mailroom to Becoming a Talent Agent at WME - The Importance of Networking in the Country Music Industry - The Growing Music Scene in Indianapolis and Nashville Check out these great clips from the show: 00:56 Guest Introduction: Alex Collignon, WME 01:48 Alex's Early Music Journey 03:07 The Path to Becoming a Talent Agent 03:47 Internships and Early Career Experiences 05:31 Life in the Mailroom 07:54 The Role of a Talent Agent 29:02 Celebrating Vocal Group of the Year 29:36 Building Relationships in the Music Industry 30:17 Booking Live Talent and Handling Requests 32:45 Surviving the Early Career Struggles 34:17 Learning from Mentors and Career Breakthroughs 36:52 Navigating Artist Representation and Touring 46:25 The Role of Data and Analytics in Touring 49:32 Managing Multiple Artists and Their Careers 57:32 Forming the Team and Initial Meetings 58:00 The Importance of Personal Connections 01:00:06 Gavin's Story and Taking Risks 01:01:46 Nashville's Growth and Its Impact 01:02:30 Indianapolis vs. Nashville: Learning and Growing 01:05:12 Memorable Moments and Career Highlights 01:08:55 Festival Experiences and Booking Shows 01:13:43 Indiana's Music Scene and Venues 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.

    1h 26m
  7. JAN 2

    Realities of the Restaurant Business | Tom Main, Tinker Street

    On today's show I sat down with Tom Main, the visionary behind the restaurants Tinker Street, Puccini's Smiling Teeth, and Freeland's. Main's unconventional introduction into the restaurant industry began at age 30 after a stint in prison. Driven by a need for change, he launched the pizzeria Puccini's Smiling Teeth in 1991, successfully expanding to multiple locations. In 2015, he opened Tinker Street, followed by Freeland's in Carmel, aiming to empower adults with developmental disabilities while showing his commitment to people and the community. 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: - Tom Main's Journey to Becoming a Restaurateur - The Foundings of Puccini's Smiling Teeth, Tinker Street, and Freeland's - Day-to-Day Realities of the Restaurant Business Check out these great clips from the show: 00:56 Guest Introduction: Tom Main, Tinker Street 02:26 Tom's Early Life and Entry into the Restaurant Business 02:51 The Turning Point: Federal Prison and Self-Reflection 06:07 Discovering a Passion for Restaurants 12:07 Starting Puccini's: The Early Days 23:42 Challenges and Failures in the Restaurant Industry 30:55 Expanding and Managing Multiple Locations 33:29 Stepping Away and Returning with Tinker Street 37:09 Starting Tinker Street: The Early Days 37:47 Creating a Unique Dining Experience 38:48 The Challenges and Successes 41:33 Community and Evolution 43:53 The Reality of the Restaurant Business 48:35 Opening a New Restaurant in Carmel 51:50 Lessons from the Restaurant Industry 53:55 Future Plans and Reflections 55:48 Indiana 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.

    1h 11m
  8. 12/31/2025

    The Road to Visiting 1,000 Indiana Towns: Celebrating 2025 and What's Ahead in 2026

    On today's special New Year's Eve episode, I sat down with two of my Get Indiana team members Will Hudson and Robert Porter to reflect on the past year and discuss our ambitious plans for 2026. They each highlight their favorite moments and achievements of 2025, including memorable shoots, podcast episodes and guests, and personal milestones. We also dive into the exciting plan of visiting 1,000 towns across Indiana in 2026, sharing unique facts and reasons why the state is underrated. 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: - Get Indiana's Most Memorable Content, Podcast Guests, and Milestones from 2025 - Get Indiana's 2026 Plan of Visiting 1,000 Towns Across Indiana - Bold Predictions for Growth and Recognition Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 Guest Introduction: Will Hudson and Robert Porter, Get Indiana 00:55 Reflecting on 2025 Highlights 02:07 Favorite Video Projects of 2025 03:39 Favorite Podcast Episodes 07:27 Looking Ahead to 2026 10:01 Unexpected Moments and Challenges 15:20 Studio Upgrades and Challenges 16:05 Predictions for Indiana in 2026 17:10 Surprises and Developments in 2025 19:05 Announcing the 2026 Epic Quest 20:59 Exploring Indiana's Regions 25:22 Goals and Predictions for 2026 28:31 Acknowledgements 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.

    31 min
5
out of 5
51 Ratings

About

Get IN. is the podcast focused on Indiana, and the stories of inspiring Hoosiers. Follow along as host Nate Spangle dives into all the things that make Indiana great.

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