Welcome to Plugged In La Porte, the podcast highlighting La Porte, Indiana's people, places, and events. In each episode, host Nate Loucks interviews guests, including business owners, community stakeholders, and political leaders, to delve into the unique stories, perspectives, and challenges that make La Porte a vibrant community. Through these conversations, you will learn about La Porte's latest developments, challenges, and opportunities and gain a deeper understanding of the values and vision that drive many individuals in the community to thrive. Whether you have lived in La Porte for a long time, are a new resident looking to get involved, or are simply curious about this Northwest Indiana city, this podcast is your guide to all things La Porte.
Plugged In La Porte is sponsored by the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership. Find out more about LEAP by visiting laportepartnership.com.
La Porte Community School Corporation Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood shares her vision for repurposing schools and marketing education in today's marketplace to drive innovation and student success.
29 Nov 2024
Episode 13: Dr. Sandra Wood - Part 1
La Porte Community School Corporation Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood shares her journey from Spanish teacher to district leader, discussing her initial thoughts on La Porte and the challenges facing the district.
22 Nov 2024
Episode 12: Craig Phillips & Nick Minich
Plugged In La Porte Host Nate Loucks explores housing, TIFs, and major projects in La Porte with City Director Craig Phillips and City Engineer Nick Minich.
27 Sept 2024
Episode 11: Heather Ennis and Blake Murray
In episode 11, host Nate Loucks sits down with Heather Ennis, President and CEO of the Northwest Indiana Forum, to discuss her journey to the Forum and how she fuels her passion for making the region the best place to be.
Blake Murray, Co-Owner at Bare Bones Gastropub, shares how he got his start as our Small Business Spotlight. Learn about how your favorite dinner and brunch spot came to be and have a little fun playing along with a special trivia game Nate created just for Blake.
29 Aug 2024
Episode 10: A Look at New York Blower & An Update on City Events
In the 10th episode, host Nate Loucks sits down with New York Blower Company Executive VP of Operations and COO Scott Hamilton to discuss the company's history, his personal journey and the new $5M investment office and greenspace slated for Factory Street.
We also play a little trivia game with Civic and City Events Director Brett Binversie while getting the scoop on all the upcoming concerts and events.
15 Aug 2024
Episode 9: A Look at Drug Court & an Update on our City Parks
In the 9th episode of Plugged In La Porte, host Nate Loucks sits down with Honorable Judge Greta Friedman and Sergeant Adam Hannon of La Porte County Drug Court to inform our listeners of the process and criteria for the program and how it has been making a difference in our community since 2012.
Additionally, City of La Porte Park & Recreation Superintendent Mark Schreiber recaps LakeFest and discusses the importance of quality of life in La Porte.
18 Jun 2024
Episode 8: City Events & Economic Development
In the eighth episode, host Nate Loucks discusses the upcoming summer events with Brett Binversie, particularly the Civic Concert Series and Taco Fest.
We also finally got LEAP Executive Director Bert Cook on the pod to give our listeners a look into economic development in the City of La Porte, and yes, we are talking about Microsoft!
7 Jun 2024
Episode 7: Summer Park Programs & Great News with Chris Mahlmann
In the 7th episode of Plugged In La Porte, host Nate Loucks sits down with City Park Superintendent Mark Schreiber to discuss the upcoming summer events including LakeFest, Movies in the Park, and more. They also get into the Scott Field housing proposal.
Additionally, Chris Mahlmann, Founder of GreatNews.Life, recalls his journey from finance to creating a positive-only news outlet and talks about what is in store for the future with the exciting expansion into Michiana.
21 May 2024
A Sweet Conversation with Courtney Dickman and an Update on Our Parks
In the sixth episode, Nate Loucks has a compelling and insightful conversation with Courtney Dickman, the Co-Owner of Downtown Delights. Courtney shares her unique perspectives on the challenges and successes of running a business in the downtown area, offering valuable insights into the local business landscape and her vision for the future of Downtown Delights.
Additionally, City of La Porte Park Superintendent Mark Schreiber provides an overview of the upcoming summer kids' programs, sporting activities, and community events, painting a picture of the exciting opportunities available for residents of La Porte.
8 May 2024
AMA with Mayor Tom Dermody and City Events with Brett Binversie
In episode 5 of Plugged In La Porte, host Nate Loucks asks Mayor Tom Dermody the burning questions, and discusses the upcoming events happening in the City of La Porte with Director of the Civic and City Events, Brett Binversie.
16 Apr 2024
A Candid Conversation with State Rep Jim Pressel & Exploring our Parks and Lakes
In episode 4 of Plugged In La Porte, host Nate Loucks delves into state legislature with State Representative - District 20, Jim Pressel, and discusses our natural resources and upcoming plans for our beautiful parks and lakes with City of La Porte Park & Recreation Superintendent, Mark Schreiber.
2 Apr 2024
Episode 3
To be done by Nate.
19 Mar 2024
A Candid Conversation with LaPorte County Council Leaders and Jessica Granger of Thode Floral
Welcome to the second episode of Plugged In La Porte, a podcast hosted by Nate Loucks that aims to keep La Porte, Indiana, residents curious, connected, and informed of the city's latest developments and initiatives. In this episode, Nate sat down with two La Porte County Council members: Michael Rosenbaum, former County Council President, and Randy Novak, the current County Council President. They discussed their roles in the county, the council's responsibilities, and the challenges and opportunities they see for the county moving forward.
Nate also spoke with Jessica Granger, the owner of Thode Floral in downtown La Porte. She shared about her decision to relocate the business, her thoughts on truck traffic, and her ideal customer.
This episode covered various topics, from county leadership to small businesses, providing valuable information for all La Porte residents. Tune in to Plugged In La Porte to stay updated and informed about what is happening in La Porte, Indiana.
Plugged In LaPorte is a collaborative podcast between Nate Loucks and La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership. Find out more about LEAP at laportepartnership.com.
5 Mar 2024
Indiana Career Pathways, Community Development, and Annexation
Welcome to the debut episode of Plugged In LaPorte, a podcast hosted by Nate Loucks that aims to keep the residents of LaPorte, Indiana, curious, connected, and plugged in with the city's latest developments and initiatives. In this first episode, Nate sat down with two City of LaPorte employees: Craig Phillips, the Community Development and Planning Director, and Nick Minich, the City Engineer. They discussed their roles in the city, annexation in Indiana, and the challenges and opportunities they see moving forward for the city.
Nate also spoke with Erik Nelson, the Workforce Development Coordinator for LaPorte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP), and Jen Goss, who manages the Career Pathways program at LaPorte Community School Corporation. They provided valuable insights into Indiana's Career Pathways program, which helps high school students explore various career options and gain skills and education to prepare them for the workforce.
This episode covered various topics from community development to education that will help inform all LaPorte residents. So tune in to Plugged In LaPorte to stay updated and informed about what is happening in LaPorte, Indiana.
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