Best CJ Whitfield Podcasts (2025)

1
ESPN’s Stephen Holder on the Colts, WNBA and Future of Sports Media 33:47

1d ago33:47

33:47

In this episode, ESPN NFL reporter Stephen Holder provides a front-row perspective on the high stakes for the Indianapolis Colts heading into a new season and if Anthony Richardson will be under center game one. The veteran sports journalist also weighs in on pay equity for the WNBA, the evolution of sports media and his journey from South Florida …

1
From Napkin to NASDAQ: Dan O’Toole and the Rise of Arrive AI 32:53

9d ago32:53

32:53

It’s a story of grit, guts, and game-changing technology. In this episode, we sit down with Dan O’Toole, the visionary founder and CEO of Arrive AI—a high-tech company revolutionizing the future of delivery with its smart mailbox system for drones and robots. What started as a vision sketched on a napkin has turned into a publicly traded company, w…

1
Leading Through Change: Community Health Network CEO Bryan Mills 30:27

16d ago30:27

30:27

In this episode, we sit down with Bryan Mills, the longtime CEO of Community Health Network, who is retiring after an extraordinary 40-year career. When Mills joined Community, it was a single hospital. Today, it is one of Indiana’s largest health systems, with more than10,000 employees. He shares insights on growth, the state of healthcare and les…

1
Brian Schutt: Igniting Indiana’s Entrepreneurial Future 28:00

23d ago28:00

28:00

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Schutt, the newly appointed leader of Indiana’s Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation. A self-described “accidental entrepreneur,” Schutt has been tapped by Governor Mike Braun to empower Hoosier innovators and grow “Main Street businesses.” He shares his vision for cultivating a thriving entrepreneurial …

1
Lebanon Mayor Matt Gentry on Growth, Innovation and What’s Next 35:17

30d ago35:17

35:17

When he was elected in 2015 at the age of 26, Matt Gentry was Indiana’s second-youngest mayor. A decade later, he’s leading Lebanon through a dramatic transformation, headlined by Eli Lilly and Company’s $13 billion investment in the LEAP Innovation District. In this episode, he talks about the challenges and opportunities that change brings, leadi…

1
The Sisters Behind Holiday World Talk Family, Fun & the Future 31:20

1M ago31:20

31:20

Meet Leah Koch-Blumhardt and Lauren Koch-Crosby, the fourth-generation owners of Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari—America’s first theme park. From free soft drinks and sunscreen to top-ranked water rides, they talk about what makes the park special, the importance of storytelling, and how they’re tackling challenges like seasonal staffing, rising c…

1
Football lifer Rick Venturi on Jim Irsay’s legacy, Colts’ future 35:36

1M ago35:36

35:36

In this episode, veteran NFL coach and longtime Colts analyst Rick Venturi joins the show for a candid conversation about his decades-long relationship with Colts owner Jim Irsay. Venturi reflects on Irsay’s legacy, how he likely hoped to be remembered, and what lies ahead for the franchise under the Irsay daughters’ leadership. He also shares an e…

1
Leading Lawrence – Mayor Deb Whitfield on Progress, Diversity, and Opportunity 31:40

2M ago31:40

31:40

In this episode, we sit down with Deb Whitfield, the trailblazing mayor of Lawrence, Indiana — the first woman and first African American to hold the office in Marion County. Mayor Whitfield reflects on her first year in office, sharing insights into leading a city of 50,000 with a rich and diverse population. She highlights Lawrence’s unique asset…

1
The Quiet King of Cuisine: Collin Hilton’s Road to World Food Champion 28:01

2M ago28:01

28:01

In this episode, we sit down with Collin Hilton, Chef de Cuisine at Cunningham Restaurant Group and a newly crowned World Food Champion. Hilton shares his journey from an unlikely start in the kitchen to winning big on a national stage—at the World Food Championships Final Table---and a $150,000 pay day. Known for his quiet confidence and precision…

1
From Madam C.J. Walker to the Joy Goddess: A conversation with A’Lelia Bundles 31:36

2M ago31:36

31:36

In this episode, award-winning journalist and historian A’Lelia Bundles discusses her new biography, Joy Goddess: A’Lelia Walker and the Harlem Renaissance. Bundles, the great-granddaughter of A’Lelia Walker and great-great-granddaughter of Madam C.J. Walker, shares what inspired her decades-long fascination with A’Lelia’s life — an iconic figure o…

1
New USI President Steven Bridges: Ready to meet the moment 29:12

2M ago29:12

29:12

In this episode, we sit down with the new president of the University of Southern Indiana — and the first USI graduate to ever lead the university. Steven Bridges shares his vision, including the highly anticipated transition to Division I athletics and what it means for the campus community. We also dive into the challenges facing higher education…

1
Sipping Success: How Jill and Bryce Morrison Took Mom Water from a Small Town to Store Shelves 30:24

3M ago30:24

30:24

From a pool side inspiration in the Dominican Republic to store shelves across the country, Jill and Bryce Morrison have turned a vacation idea into a nationally distributed sensation. They are the co-founders of Mom Water—fruit-infused vodka water that’s taken the alcohol industry by storm. In this episode, the couple from tiny Ferdinand, Indiana …

1
Mitch Daniels talks new school, tariffs, NIL and more 38:04

3M ago38:04

38:04

In this episode, former Purdue University President Mitch Daniels joins us for an inside look at the new $168 million Mitch Daniels School of Business at Purdue, which is now under construction. Daniels shares his vision for how the school will stand apart, producing a different kind of graduate. We also get his take on a range of timely topics, fr…

1
The Heartbeat of May – Inside the 500 Festival with CEO Bob Bryant 34:05

3M ago34:05

34:05

May in Indianapolis is a month-long celebration of speed, tradition and community leading up to the iconic Indianapolis 500. At the heart of it all is the 500 Festival, a nonprofit fueling more than 30 community events and programs that are part what makes May in Indy so special. In this episode, 500 Festival CEO Bob Bryant talks about the organiza…

1
Ascension St. Vincent Carmel President Chad Dilley 32:02

3M ago32:02

32:02

In this episode, we sit down with Ascension St. Vincent Carmel President Chad Dilley, to explore the fast-changing healthcare landscape in one of Indiana’s fastest-growing counties. From explosive population growth to game-changing technology, we unpack the trends shaping the future of care in Central Indiana and beyond. Chad also shares his person…

1
Mom on a Mission: BeeFree Founder Jennifer Wiese 32:26

4M ago32:26

32:26

When Jennifer Wiese’s son was diagnosed with autism, she went to work, searching for ways to support his health. And she started in the kitchen. That journey led to the creation of BeeFree, a line of gluten-free snacks that began with trial-and-error recipes and has grown into a nationally distributed brand, found in the nation’s largest retailers.…

1
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam 32:46

4M ago32:46

32:46

From a vibrant downtown to a burgeoning U.S. 31 corridor, Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam talks about her vision for a city that has undergone transformational change over the past three decades. Hear about her path to the mayor’s office and how she is approaching this new chapter with a fresh perspective while capitalizing on the momentum of her predecess…

1
Pat Brown: Oliver Winery CEO 30:48

4M ago30:48

30:48

In this episode, we sit down with Pat Brown, the CEO of Bloomington-based Oliver Winery, which started as a small, family-owned operation, but has grown into one of the 30 largest wineries in the nation. Brown brings experience from some of the biggest consumer brands in the country, but this is his first venture into the alcohol industry. A former…

1
Kent Kramer, Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana CEO 28:25

4M ago28:25

28:25

When many people think of Goodwill, they think of those popular retail stores—but Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana is doing more…a lot more. In this episode, we sit down with CEO Kent Kramer to discuss how Goodwill is transforming lives, from unique workforce training programs to innovative adult high schools across 10 states. They are even d…

1
Indiana Wesleyan President Jon Kulaga on innovating education, strengthening state's workforce 31:31

4M ago31:31

31:31

Dr. Jon Kulaga, the 10th president of Indiana Wesleyan University, joins the podcast this week to outline his strategic vision for Indiana’s largest private university. Kulaga discusses the launch of a unique vocational training initiative aimed at addressing Indiana’s skilled labor shortage and details IWU’s ambitious expansion plans, including tr…

1
Polina Osherov: The Power of Indiana’s Creative Class 37:56

5M ago37:56

37:56

From artists and designers to musicians and filmmakers, it is estimated that the creative class employs more than 81,000 workers and contributes more than $9 billion to the state’s Gross Domestic Product. But the Hoosier state is often overlooked as a hub for creative talent. In this episode, Pattern, Inc. Executive Director Polina Osherov explains…

1
Larry Hall, VP of the Indianapolis Colts: An Inside Look at the Jim Irsay Collection 37:48

5M ago37:48

37:48

In this special episode, we take you inside the extraordinary collection of music, art, and culture amassed by Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay. Join us as we sit down with Larry Hall, the chief curator of The Jim Irsay Collection, a treasure trove of rare pieces from the most iconic names in the world of entertainment and historical artifacts th…

1
Huse Culinary CEO and Co-Owner Craig Huse 37:34

5M ago37:34

37:34

From Peyton Manning’s post-game pilgrimages to its eye-watering shrimp cocktail, St. Elmo is known around the globe as an iconic Indianapolis destination. In this episode, Huse Culinary CEO and Co-Owner Craig Huse talks steak, sports and stories from behind the scenes at the legendary steakhouse. He also says more growth---both inside and outside o…

1
Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson 26:29

5M ago26:29

26:29

She grew up in the shadow of the Pentagon, spent 20 years with Habitat for Humanity and is now leading Bloomington in a time of economic transition. In this episode, Mayor Kerry Thomson talks about how she fell in love with the city and what she sees as keys to a new path forward.By IBJ Media

1
Sally Grant, Crew Carwash Executive Vice President 30:11

6M ago30:11

30:11

In this episode, we sit down with a third-generation member of the Dahm family to talk about the vision, values and culture that have propelled Crew Carwash into an industry powerhouse. Founded more than 70 years ago in Fort Wayne as Indiana’s first automated car wash, Crew now boasts 45 locations in Indiana and Minnesota. Executive Vice President …

1
Ball State Center for Business and Economic Research Director Mike Hicks 31:08

6M ago31:08

31:08

What is the economic outlook for Indiana and how does it compare to the rest of the nation? Ball State economist Mike Hicks joins us for an insightful discussion on the Hoosier economy that is generally upbeat, but with some definite concerns as well.By IBJ Media

1
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness on new event center, growth 30:28

6M ago30:28

30:28

In this episode, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness talks about the bold decision to build the new 7,500 seat Fishers Event Center and the more than $1 billion in investment that continues to transform one of Indiana’s fastest growing cities. He also talks about future investment in the city’s downtown, the life sciences and motorsports and why Fishers is…

1
Get Ready to Rumble! How Indy Landed WWE’s ‘Big Three’ 29:24

6M ago29:24

29:24

For the first time ever, WWE is putting its three largest events---Royal Rumble, WestleMania and SummerSlam---in one city. In this episode, we sit down with WWE Executive Vice President Chris Legentil and Indiana Sports Corporation President Patrick Talty to talk economic impact, global exposure and how Indy pulled off the hat trick.…

1
Andy Mallon, Executive Director, Capital Improvement Board 35:33

7M ago35:33

35:33

It was created to build the Indiana Convention in what was then a sleepy downtown Indianapolis. Sixty years later, the Capital Improvement Board is responsible for the highest profile venues in Indy---from Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse to Victory Field and what is now one of the ten largest convention centers in the nation. CIB Execut…

1
TrendyMinds Chairman and Founder Trevor Yager 39:30

7M ago39:30

39:30

In this episode we sit down with Trevor Yager, the dynamic founder of TrendyMinds, who grew the company from a student venture into one of the largest full-service marketing firms in Indiana. Trevor shares his journey as an entrepreneur, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a successful business while keeping people first alo…

1
One on One: Eric Holcomb 31:13

7M ago31:13

31:13

As he prepares to leave office, Eric Holcomb sits down with Gerry Dick for a special vodcast, reflecting on his two terms as Indiana Governor. From defining moments to navigating a global pandemic to record economic development, he shares personal stories, lessons learned, and his vision for Indiana’s future.…

1
Chuck Weisenbach: A Passion for Education and Service 32:50

8M ago32:50

32:50

You could call him Mr. Roncalli. Chuck Weisenbach grew up in the shadow the of southside Indianapolis High School, graduated there and for the past 39 years has led the Blue Ribbon school. In this episode, the Roncalli president offers perspective on a resurgence in Catholic education, the evolving state of education in Indiana and the important ro…

1
Andy Wilson: Indy Making music on a Big Stage 34:21

8M ago34:21

34:21

In his more than 25 years in the entertainment business, Elevate Entertainment & Event Support Services CEO Andy Wilson has seen Indianapolis’ emergence as a music city. From small venues to Taylor Swift, Indy is making its mark as a destination for prime-time performers, and that means some high notes for the city’s brand and economy.…

1
Danielle Shockey: From Cookies to Coding, Not Your Grandmother’s Girl Scouts 33:52

8M ago33:52

33:52

Girl Scout Cookie season. It is a beloved tradition that has provided enormous financial support and entrepreneurial experiences for generations of young girls. And while Girl Scouts of Central Indiana sells more than 3 million boxes of cookies annually, CEO Danielle Shockey says it is just a fraction of a new and deeper mission to empower girls to…

1
Jay Height: Breaking the Cycle of Poverty 32:35

8M ago32:35

32:35

For nearly 40 years, Shepherd Community Center has stayed true to its simple yet powerful mission of “breaking the cycle of poverty.” The Indianapolis east side nonprofit is in the business of changing lives-- physically, emotionally, spiritually, and academically. In this episode, the center’s passionate CEO, Jay Height, talks about Shepherd’s eno…

1
Tommy Reddicks: Marching to the Beat of a Different Drummer 33:39

9M ago33:39

33:39

He’s a musician. A cheesemaker. A game designer. A filmmaker. But most of all, Tommy Reddicks is an educator. In this episode, find out how this Wyoming native-turned Hoosier has combined his diverse background with a passion for education to create Paramount Schools of Excellence and why it’s a model grabbing national attention.…

1
Vince Wong: Making the Case for Indiana 33:44

9M ago33:44

33:44

While Indiana has obvious strengths in the life sciences, from the private sector to world class academic institutions, does it have what it takes to be a global leader? Biocrossroads CEO Vince Wong believes the answer is an unequivocal yes. In this episode he makes the case for Indiana as a life sciences epicenter and offers perspective on the imp…

1
Healthcare Transformation: What Hoosiers Can Expect 31:54

9M ago31:54

31:54

From Artificial Intelligence to shifting patient care models, healthcare delivery is undergoing transformational change. In this episode, Community Health Network Chief Transformation Officer Dr. Patrick McGill talks technology, accessibility and the biggest challenges facing the healthcare system in Indiana.…

1
MK Huse: Serving Up History 31:41

9M ago31:41

31:41

In January, the Indy Ignite will give Indiana its first look at professional volleyball. The Ignite are set to open play in the eight-team Pro Volleyball Federation in the new Fishers Events Center. General Manager and President MK Huse gives us an inside look at what fans can expect, and why she wants the team’s impact to extend far beyond the cou…

1
Kathyrn Haigh: CEO Blazing a New Trail at Eiteljorg Museum 30:01

10M ago30:01

30:01

Kathryn Haigh entered the University of Cincinnati with designs on a career in fashion. But an art history class would change all that and ignite her passion for museums. In this episode, the first female CEO of the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art talks about career, her vision for the museum and what she views as a cultural tr…

1
Vanessa Green Sinders: Crafting a Vision for Indiana Business 31:12

10M ago31:12

31:12

“It’s been exciting and energizing to see firsthand…and then think about how we can grow even more.” She grew up near Boston, but Vanessa Green Sinders is now very much a Hoosier. In this episode, the CEO of the Indiana Chamber talks about her path from small town New England to the heart of the Midwest, and her vision to elevate Indiana on a globa…

1
Robert Coons: College President Engineering the Next Generation 33:29

10M ago33:29

33:29

For 25 consecutive years, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology has been ranked as the top undergraduate engineering college in the nation. In this episode, President Robert Coons talks rankings, enrollment and an innovative effort to extend the school’s reach far beyond the confines of campus.By IBJ Media

1
Sabre Cook: Racer on a mission, on and off the track 32:15

10M ago32:15

32:15

She’s young, tough and has a passion to push herself to the limit. Meet racer and mechanical engineer Sabre Cook and find out what drives her to succeed in the male-dominated world of motorsports and why she’s determined to help more women enter the sport.By IBJ Media

1
Todd Lucey: Endress+Hauser GM Bullish on Indiana 32:06

11M ago32:06

32:06

Three years after opening its first U.S. plant in Massachusetts, Switzerland-based Endress+Hauser made the surprising decision to move operations to Indiana. 50 years later, the electronic instrument manufacturer is in the midst of a $50 million expansion at its Greenwood headquarters, which is now home to more than 700 employees. General Manager T…

1
Dr. Carlotta Berry: Blazing a Technology Trail in the Heartland 32:01

11M ago32:01

32:01

Against daunting odds, Carlotta Berry earned bachelor's degrees in mathematics and electrical engineering from Spelman College and Georgia Tech and a PhD from Vanderbilt. While at Georgia Tech, something stood out to her: the lack of female and African American students and faculty in the engineering program. In this episode, this trailblazing tech…

1
Ryan Rohrman: Driving the Family Business 33:18

11M ago33:18

33:18

For decades, the Rohrman name has been synonymous with the Indiana car business---and some wacky commercials. Today, Rohrman Automotive Group has grown into a network of 22 dealerships across three states and next generation CEO Ryan Rohrman sees more growth on the road ahead. In this episode he talks about the importance of people, technology, and…

1
Brandi Davis-Handy: Bringing the energy to her hometown 27:33

11M ago27:33

27:33

She grew up in Indianapolis with designs on a career as a television journalist. Little did Brandi Davis-Handy know her passion for storytelling would bring her back home to lead a utility. In this episode, the president of AES Indiana talks energy transition, the impact on community and Indiana’s opportunity for “historic growth.”…

1
James Mueller: “It Does Feel Like It’s South Bend’s Time” 31:01

11M ago31:01

31:01

He was a triple major in math, history and philosophy at Notre Dame and earned a PhD in Oceanography from the University of Delaware. But James Mueller would choose public service over academics, coming home to lead his hometown as mayor. In this episode, he talks about challenges and opportunities, his relationship with Pete Buttigieg, and why he …

1
Marsh Davis: A Focus on the Past, with an Eye to the Future 30:44

12M ago30:44

30:44

His passion for preservation will serve as a lasting legacy. Marsh Davis is retiring after leading Indiana Landmarks for 18 years, growing it into the largest statewide preservation group in the nation. In this episode, he talks about the importance of saving historic structures, what it means to Hoosier communities and the economy and why for him,…

1
Mike David: Growing the Game, One Golfer at a Time 28:06

12M ago28:06

28:06

For longtime Indiana Golf Executive Director Mike David, these are heady times. The governing body of golf in the Hoosier state has broken ground on a $6.5 million headquarters and interactive Hall of Fame and play at the state’s more than 400 courses continues on the upswing. In this episode, the Columbus, Indiana native talks about golf’s $2 bill…

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CJ Whitfield Podcasts

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