Inside INdiana Business Television Podcast

Indiana’s Booming Life Sciences Sector, March Madness Economic Impact, and Purdue’s Mars Mission

In this episode of Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, we dive into Indiana’s booming life sciences sector, which hit a historic milestone in 2024—becoming the nation’s No. 1 exporter of life sciences products. A new BioCrossroads report reveals $27 billion in life sciences exports, a $21 billion pharmaceutical sector, and a 3,000-job increase statewide, with wages jumping to nearly $150,000 annually.
Plus, it’s March Madness in Indianapolis, and while the action is on the court, the economic impact is felt across the city. The NCAA Midwest Regional Sweet 16 and Elite 8 at Lucas Oil Stadium is expected to bring in $30 million for downtown businesses, and we uncover Indy’s “secret sauce”—its world-class volunteer network that makes it the go-to host city for major sporting events.
Also in this episode:
Indiana’s life sciences expansion: From Lilly’s $13 billion Boone County investment to Novartis’ nuclear medicine growth, what’s driving the state’s biotech boom?
Terrafore’s high-tech farming breakthrough: A Knox County AI startup is revolutionizing crop harvesting with robotics-powered innovation.
Indy’s newest sports entertainment venue? Inside Indiana Business breaks down reports that COSM, a high-tech immersive sports video experience, is eyeing Indianapolis for its next expansion.
Purdue’s role in space exploration: A Purdue-engineered camera on NASA’s Perseverance Rover is capturing historic images of Mars’ surface and the Ingenuity helicopter in flight.
Indiana’s latest renewable energy project: A $140 million bioenergy facility in Northwest Indiana will convert organic waste into renewable natural gas at Kingsbury Industrial Park.
Trendy drive-thrus across the state: From donuts and empanadas to tacos and crab rangoon, Yelp’s Brittany Smith shares Indiana’s top locally-owned drive-thru food spots.
Join us for an in-depth look at how Indiana is leading in life sciences, capitalizing on its sports legacy, and fueling innovation across multiple industries.

MakeMyMove Boosts Indiana’s Talent Pool, Fort Wayne’s Med Tech Ambitions, and Tackling Hunger Through Innovation

In this episode of Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, we spotlight the Indiana-based startup MakeMyMove, which is luring remote workers from across the U.S. to cities like Noblesville, South Bend, and Evansville. Offering cash incentives, perks, and community engagement opportunities, the program has already helped more than 2,000 remote workers relocate, fueling economic growth and helping Indiana address its talent shortage.
Plus, northeast Indiana is aiming to become a global gateway for med tech companies. Fort Wayne’s Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation is launching an initiative to attract international med tech firms by easing their entry into the U.S. market and leveraging the region’s $19 billion medical device ecosystem.
Also in this episode:
Cadillac brings Formula 1 to Fishers: Construction is underway on a $200 million racing headquarters expected to create 300 new jobs.
Hypersonic tech in southern Indiana: Kratos Defense is investing $50 million in a hypersonic testing facility near NSWC Crane, creating up to 100 jobs and strengthening Indiana’s defense sector.
Indiana’s hunger fight: Leaders from agriculture and food industries unite at the first Indiana Hunger Summit to combat food insecurity, which affects 1 in 8 Hoosiers.
University of Evansville’s farm-to-classroom innovation: A unique container farm initiative is helping educate students and feed the Evansville community year-round.
Recycling revolution in Indy: Republic Services and Blue Polymers invest $180 million in a state-of-the-art plastics recycling complex, a first in North America, creating 125 jobs and setting a national precedent.
Join us for an in-depth look at how Indiana is growing its workforce, driving innovation, and addressing critical community needs, one bold initiative at a time.

Indiana Farmers Brace for Tariffs, Big Ten's Fight Against Cancer, and Rural Education

In this episode of Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, we examine how Indiana’s 94,000 farmers are preparing for the spring planting season amid uncertain crop prices and potential tariffs. With China as the top importer of Hoosier soybeans and Mexico leading in corn imports, how will trade tensions impact Indiana’s $35 billion agriculture economy? We get insights from Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Don Lamb and Purdue agricultural economist Chad Fiechter on the economic pressures facing farmers.
Plus, The Big Ten Cancer Research Consortium, headquartered at the Hoosier Cancer Research Network, unites 16 universities to conduct collaborative clinical trials. With the addition of West Coast schools like UCLA and Washington, the initiative is expanding its reach, accelerating the development of life-saving treatments and offering new hope to cancer patients nationwide.
Also in this episode:
Hoosier farmers navigate rising costs: From fertilizer and fuel prices to inflation and high interest rates, why many farmers can’t project a profit this season and how they’re adapting.
Gary’s pitch for a convention center: With Hard Rock Casino leading the charge, we explore how the city is positioning itself to become a regional convention hub.
Rural Indiana’s education challenges: A new documentary highlights the struggles of North Putnam schools, from teacher shortages to limited access to healthcare and internet.
A major international business conference lands in Indy: Mark Cuban headlines the Global Entrepreneurship Congress, bringing investors and innovators from around the world to Indiana.
West Lafayette biotech breakthrough: A Purdue-founded life sciences startup secures FDA clearance for an innovative pancreatic cancer test.
Join us for an in-depth look at Indiana’s agriculture sector, economic development, and the future of education in rural communities.

Week of 3/9/2025: Indiana State Fairgrounds' Big Evolution, Mobile Lung Cancer Screening, and Jim Irsay’s Iconic Collection

In this episode of Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, we explore the transformation of the Indiana State Fairgrounds into a year-round event destination. With 400 events annually—from conventions and sports tournaments to food competitions—the fairgrounds now generate a $330 million economic impact. We take an inside look at the investments fueling this growth and what it means for central Indiana’s economy.
Plus, Indiana’s first-ever mobile lung cancer screening unit hits the road. We’ll meet the team behind this 40-foot CT scanner on wheels, designed to bring life-saving early detection directly to Hoosiers in rural areas.
Also in this episode:
The State Fairgrounds' big sports play: How a state-of-the-art indoor track is attracting national competitions and boosting local revenue.
A look inside Jim Irsay’s multimillion-dollar collection: From Bob Dylan’s electric guitar to Muhammad Ali’s iconic fight robe, we go behind the scenes with the Colts owner’s world-class artifacts.
Indiana’s role in March Madness: With 43 postseason college basketball games in Indianapolis this month, we break down the city’s economic impact and what’s ahead for 2026, when Indy hosts all major NCAA men’s championships.
The latest in Indiana’s auto industry: How tariffs could impact thousands of Honda workers in Greensburg, and what the future holds for the state’s manufacturing sector.

Week of 3/2/2025: NFL Combine’s Impact and Indy’s Sports Tech Boom

In this episode of Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, we examine the lasting impact of the NFL Combine on Indianapolis. With the event injecting an estimated $9 million into the local economy, we explore how restaurants like St. Elmo Steakhouse and hotels across downtown are benefiting, and what it means for the city's future as a major sports hub.
Plus, the Combine is more than just an athletic showcase - it’s a proving ground for Indiana’s growing sports technology sector. We sit down with executives from Sportable and SportsTech HQ to discuss how cutting-edge innovations in smart ball technology and data analytics are positioning Indy as a global leader in sports tech.
Also in this episode:
The future of the NFL Combine in Indianapolis: With its contract expiring in 2026, what’s being done to keep the event in town?
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Indiana connection: The action star joins forces with Warsaw-based Zimmer Biomet to motivate those with joint pain to seek treatment.
Inside Jim Irsay’s multimillion-dollar collection: A rare behind-the-scenes look at the Colts owner’s legendary artifacts, from historic guitars to cultural treasures.
Indy’s hotel boom: Over $1 billion in investment is reshaping the skyline, with new luxury hotels fueling the city’s convention industry.
Fort Wayne FC goes pro: The city’s soccer team leaps USL League One, with a new stadium on the horizon.
Join us for an in-depth look at the business of sports, healthcare innovation, and Indiana’s evolving economic landscape.

Week of 2/23/2025: Marvella Bayh’s Legacy with Evan Bayh, Indiana’s Youth Sports Boom, and the State’s Best Croissants

In this episode of Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, we explore the legacy of Marvella Bayh - wife of former U.S. Senator Birch Bayh and a champion for women's rights - who was the inspiration behind Title IX. Now, her impact is growing even further with the creation of the Marvella Project, a first-of-its-kind, $100 million girls-focused athletic and leadership complex in Northwest Indiana.
Former Indiana Governor and U.S. Senator Evan Bayh joins us to discuss his mother’s enduring influence, the significance of this massive sports facility at Fair Oaks Farms, and how it will shape the future of girls’ athletics and leadership in America.
Plus:
The economic impact of the Marvella Project, expected to create 1,000 jobs and boost regional tourism.
A look at the history behind Title IX and how Marvella’s own experiences inspired the groundbreaking legislation.
How Indiana businesses are engaging with young Hoosiers to inspire careers in engineering and manufacturing.
A major shake-up in Indiana’s dining scene: Gray Brothers Cafeteria looks to sell, while  Yelp's Brittany Smith shares Hoosier restaurants make waves with high-end French cuisine.
Also in this episode:
Fort Wayne’s ambitious plans for a $36 million youth sports venue.
The new $110 million IU Indianapolis arena, "The Jim," honors civic leader Jim Morris.
A big economic win for Indiana’s ports, which moved near-record cargo levels.
A Fort Wayne-based startup is tackling canine dental health with a revolutionary new product.

Week of 2/16/2025: IU Indianapolis’ R1 Status, 16 Tech’s Growth, and Crew Car Wash

Central Indiana is carving its path as the Silicon Valley of the Midwest. On this week’s episode, we explore the major strides being made at IU Indianapolis, which recently earned an R1 research designation from the Carnegie Foundation. IU President Pam Whitten shares how this achievement will elevate Indiana’s tech scene and transform the 16 Tech Innovation District into a national biosciences hub.
In northeast Indiana, we dive into the potential impact of tariffs on local businesses with insights from Fort Wayne-based Do it Best. Plus, Winchester, Indiana, celebrates the 30th anniversary of the cult classic Now and Then—a film with deep local ties.
We’ll also introduce you to the family behind Crew Carwash, a Fort Wayne-born business that revolutionized the carwash industry and became one of the best places to work in the country.
Other highlights include:
A closer look at the Orr Fellowship and how it’s keeping top talent in Indiana.The construction of a new pedestrian bridge at 16 Tech that promises to connect communities and innovation.The latest updates from Indiana’s business scene, including new residential developments, partnerships, and big wins for the region.
Join Gerry Dick and the Inside INdiana Business team for these stories and more from Indiana’s business news leader.

Inside INdiana Business Television Podcast: Weekend of 02/7/2025

Visit Indy Executive VP Chris Gahl stops by the Inside INdiana Business studio to talk about Indy's record tourism year in 2024 and what's next. Plus, an update on rural broadband across the state and how an Indianapolis life sciences company is helping kids in Kenya.
Indianapolis Shattering Tourism Records
Indianapolis continues to break tourism records, with events like Taylor Swift’s concerts and the NBA All-Star Weekend bringing in millions of visitors. Caitlyn Clark shares what makes Indianapolis special, while Visit Indy’s Chris Gahl explains how the city is cashing in on its growing reputation as a top-tier destination.
Bridging the Digital Divide in Rural Indiana
Access to high-speed internet is critical for Indiana’s rural communities. AT&T Indiana is investing heavily in expanding broadband access across the state. Bill Soards, President of AT&T Indiana, discusses the progress, challenges, and future plans to ensure every Hoosier has access to reliable internet.
Indiana Life Sciences Company Saving Young Cancer Patients in Kenya
An Indianapolis-based life sciences company, in partnership with Indiana University, is helping save young cancer patients in Kenya. Beckman Coulter Life Sciences is providing high-tech equipment and training to detect childhood leukemia and lymphoma, improving survival rates by 50%.
IU Student’s Kitchen Innovation Goes Viral
IU student Jack Wax created the Handless Handle—a kitchen innovation that allows you to open garbage cabinets using your foot. The product has become a hit on Amazon, with over 12,000 units sold and more than $200,000 in sales.
 

Inside INdiana Business Television Podcast: Weekend of 02/2/2025

Indianapolis is once again taking center stage—or ring in this case—to host the WWE Royal Rumble. We're taking a look at how Indy pulled off the deal to bring three major WWE events to the city as well as pro wrestling's history in Indiana.
Business of Health Kylie Veleta shares how Westfield-based tech startup iXplore is working with OrthoWorx, to teach students about orthopedic careers using virtual reality.
Royal Rumble Weekend Puts Indianapolis in the Global Spotlight
Indianapolis scored big by landing three of WWE’s marquee events, including Royal Rumble, in an unprecedented deal. The events are expected to generate $350 million in economic impact. WWE EVP Chris Legentil and Indiana Sports Corp President Patrick Talty explain how Indianapolis continues to shine on the global stage.
Virtual Reality Helps Indiana High School Students Explore Orthopedics Careers
A Westfield-based tech company is using virtual reality to help Indiana high school students explore careers in orthopedics. The program immerses students in real-world orthopedic tasks, giving them hands-on experience and insight into the industry’s opportunities.
What’s Hot in Indiana’s Food and Drink Scene
Britney Smith, Yelp's Midwest Regional Director, reveals the latest food and drink trends across Indiana, including Hawaiian barbecue, cider flights, and deviled egg flights. Discover where to find these trending treats and what’s making waves in the Hoosier food scene this year.
Fishers Event Center Becomes a New Hub for Sports and Entertainment
The $200 million Fishers Event Center is attracting big names and events, from women’s professional volleyball to concerts and hockey. 
 

Inside INdiana Business Television Podcast: Weekend of 01/24/2025

Top Story: Indiana Housing Trends
Indiana Association of Realtors CEO Mark Fisher and F.C. Tucker Co. Senior VP Dan Brown
In the midst of this mid-winter freeze, there are signs of a thawing housing market. Gerry Dick talks to experts after Indianapolis was named the second hottest housing market in the country by Zillow and looks at housing trends across the state.
 
Ball State economic forecast
Michael Hicks, Director, Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University
Hicks says we're in the final stages of what he calls "a soft landing" as the post-Covid rebound continues. He shares his 2025 outlook and predictions for the year ahead.
 
Stevanato commercial production begins
Alessandro Zannini, Stevanato Engineering Division Sales Director
Business of Health reporter Kylie Veleta takes us inside Stevanato Group in Fishers, where business is booming and  production lines are making glass syringes for medications.
 
Home selling tips
HGTV Good Bones host Mina Starsiak Hawk
For those looking to fix up their home to sell or searching for a contractor, Mary-Rachel Redman shares advice from a Hoosier home expert.