Business & Beyond with Gerry Dick

Betsy Ross: Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling

The broadcasting bug bit Betsy Ross in sixth grade while growing up in her hometown of Connersville, Indiana. Her dreams of a career in journalism led her to anchoring at ESPN, becoming one of the first women to emerge on the national TV sports scene. Betsy Ross talks about being a pioneer for women in journalism, the NIL, her time on the anchor desk in Indianapolis and what she’s up to now.

Patrick Talty: Continuing to Win in a Competitive Game

In a city known for hosting big events, 2024 just might be its busiest year ever. From the NBA All-Star Weekend to the historic U.S. Olympic Team Trials inside Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis is once again adding to its sports capital reputation. In this episode, Indiana Sports Corporation President Patrick Talty talks about how Indy continues to land the biggest events in sport in an increasingly competitive environment and some future events that might surprise you.
 

Mark Tarner: Chocolate maker continues to dream big

Mark Tarner has always been a dreamer. And a builder. In this episode, the South Bend Chocolate Company founder talks about his entrepreneurial journey, his passion for paleontology and why his latest venture may be his biggest yet.

ISU President Mike Godard: Creating Connections

Indiana State University’s 13th president is a first-generation college graduate whose leadership style is defined by life experiences. In this episode, Dr. Mike Godard talks about growing up in Vermont, his path to Tere Haute and why making connections will be a priority, both on campus and in the community.

Becky Skillman: A life of public service

She was elected as Lawrence County Recorder in 1977, at the age of 25. It was a moment that would propel the Bedford native to a career in local and state politics, culminating with her election as Indiana’s 49th Lt. Governor.  In this episode, Becky Skillman talks about her inspiration to enter the public square, the importance of giving back and much more.

Don Fischer: Voice of the Hoosiers Still Going Strong

He was working the overnight shift at a train depot in Mendota, Illinois when an ad in Sport magazine caught Don Fischer’s eye.  “How would you like to be a sports broadcaster?” It was a moment that would change his life and lead to a Hall of Fame career. In this episode, the legendary voice of IU athletics talks about his “absolutely horrible” first play-by-play experience, his introduction to Bob Knight and much more.

B & B Rewind: Rick Fuson

As we wrap up season three of the podcast, we are taking a pause to gear up for a fantastic season four. You can look forward to a big name headlining our season-opener next week. In the meantime, enjoy this revisit with Pacers Sports and Entertainment CEO Rick Fuson, who is retiring this month after more than four decades with the organization.  
 

B & B Rewind: USI President Ron Rochon

As we wrap up season three of the podcast, we are taking a pause to gear up for a fantastic season four. You can look forward to a big name headlining our season-opener in a couple of weeks. In the meantime, enjoy this revisit with outgoing University of Southern Indiana President Ron Rochon, the dynamic educator who recently announced his departure to lead Cal State Fullerton.

Bret Swanson: Indiana’s economic future is bright, but…

He’s bullish on Indiana’s future, but Bret Swanson says the state needs to think big to create the workforce and economy it wants. The president of Zionsville-based Entropy Economics talks AI disruption, a manufacturing renaissance and why he believes entrepreneurship can be Indiana’s ticket to success.

Mayor Sharon Tucker: “Always fighting for the underdog”

She grew up in Fort Wayne and dreamed of one day breaking barriers and leading her hometown.  And while it didn’t happen in the way in which she would have liked, Sharon Tucker is relishing her new role. The city’s first Black female mayor talks about her inspiration to lead, the importance of neighborhoods and what’s next for Indiana’s second-largest city.