The Freedom Forum with Angela B. Freeman

Tavonna Harris Askew built a 20-year career in healthcare law by taking calculated risks, starting with a pivot from criminal prosecution to hospital operations. As Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Suburban Health Organization, she now serves as the organization's first-ever in-house counsel, building its legal function from the ground up while advising member hospitals across Indiana and Ohio.Harris Askew traces her path from growing up in Indianapolis's Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood to clerking in the Marion County Prosecutor's Office, practicing at Indiana Legal Services, and eventually entering health law at Health and Hospital Corporation of Indiana. She discusses the legal complexity behind hospital operations, including compliance, managed care contracting, anti-kickback statutes, and federally qualified health center certification.The conversation also covers how she approaches mentorship and sponsorship across lines of race, gender, and seniority; what it means to show up authentically in a small organization after decades in large institutions; and what Indiana's healthcare system must do to close equity gaps, build provider pipelines, and treat the whole patient. Harris Askew holds two degrees from Indiana University, including a J.D. from the IU Maurer School of Law.

Tanuja Singh, president of the University of Indianapolis, argues that higher education remains the highest-return investment a city or country can make. A physicist turned marketer turned academic leader, she points to UIndy's growth in online education, corporate partnerships with companies like Roche, a new Women's Leadership Institute, and experiential learning baked into every program as evidence that universities can evolve without losing their core mission. She is direct about Indiana's talent retention problem, telling business leaders they need to engage students early and invest in quality-of-life basics like childcare, green space, and walkable neighborhoods if they want graduates to stick around. Singh highlights UIndy's commitment to first-generation students (roughly a third of the student body), neurodivergent learners through its BUILD program, and international students, while describing Indianapolis as a city where professional relationships turn into real friendships. Her closing challenge: as the economy shifts, higher education will matter more, not less, and making that case is not just the university's job but everyone’s.

Nicole D. Harper, Vice President of Revenue Cycle Services and CFO at Eskenazi Health, joins host Angela B. Freeman to talk about her unconventional path from health administration at Indiana University to the C-suite, shaped by mentors like former CFO Sharon Rogers, a non-linear academic journey through Walden University and Wharton, and a belief that asking outside questions is an asset rather than a liability. She reflects on bridging the divide between revenue cycle and finance teams, the stubborn underrepresentation of women in healthcare leadership, why failure is something to mine for data rather than fear, and how Eskenazi Health's mission to serve vulnerable populations drives every budget decision, making a direct case that passion, empathy, and a willingness to fight for your position are strategic assets, not soft skills.

In this Black History Month episode of The Freedom Forum, Angela B. Freeman talks with Kristian Little Stricklen, president and CEO of the Madam Walker Legacy Center, about Indiana Black history and the story behind one of Indianapolis’ most iconic landmarks on Indiana Avenue. Stricklen shares her Indianapolis roots, her HBCU experience at Jackson State University, and how a path from radio into public relations shaped her career across nonprofits, corporate communications and Indianapolis Public Schools. She explains how those roles prepared her to lead the Walker through major moments, including renewed community engagement, headline performances, expanded programming and long-term sustainability efforts. The conversation also traces the life of Sarah Breedlove, known as Madam C.J. Walker, from her early years to building a national business and philanthropic legacy, and why the Walker building was designed as a hub for entertainment, Black enterprise and community life. Stricklen closes with ways the community can support the center through time, talent and treasure as the Walker approaches its centennial.

Mario Rodriguez, executive director and CEO of the Indianapolis Airport Authority, joins Angela on IBJ’s Freedom Forum to talk about his path into aviation leadership, his Cuban immigrant family story, and how a people-first culture shapes the passenger experience at Indianapolis International Airport. Rodriguez explains his focus on collective wisdom, a flatter organization, and empathy in hiring, plus how the airport invests in the community through local spending, workforce education support, and opportunities for local artists. He also shares what is ahead for the airport and why he plans to stay in Indiana.

JD Finish Line Vice President of Talent Management and HR Compliance, Jackie Gessner, joins host Angela B. Freeman on The Freedom Forum to share her career journey from Fort Wayne to Purdue, the Indiana Statehouse and IU McKinney School of Law. Gessner reflects on early pivots, retaking the LSAT, lessons from private practice at Barnes & Thornburg and why people matter when choosing a workplace. She explains her transition from law firm life to in-house leadership, managing teams across HR and talent, and supporting employees through leave, life events and change. The conversation also explores women in law, authentic leadership and how Indiana employers can retain talent by promoting from within and building strong workplace culture.

On this episode of the Freedom Forum, Indianapolis native Darrell Johnson shares his path from playing basketball at the University of South Florida and overseas in Turkey to becoming President and CEO of Diversity Press. He explains how he discovered the printing industry, why the fast pace drew him in, and how he built a company grounded in service, relationships, and diverse capabilities. Johnson reflects on nearly 20 years of entrepreneurship, growing from small print jobs to partnerships with organizations like the Indianapolis Colts, and leading a multibuilding campus with a family oriented culture. He also discusses mentorship, giving back, and why the name Diversity Press remains central to the company’s mission.

Dr. DaWana Stubbs, Regional Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Humana, shares her inspiring journey from growing up on Indianapolis’s west side and graduating from Crispus Attucks High School to leading in one of the nation’s largest healthcare organizations. She reflects on being motivated by strong family roots, her faith, and early role models who showed her what was possible for women in medicine. In this episode, Dr. Stubbs discusses the importance of diversity in healthcare, how social determinants of health impact patients, and why representation and servant leadership are vital to equitable care.

Host Angela B. Freeman welcomes Nneka Breaux, Ph.D., U.S. Regulatory Policy Leader at Corteva Agriscience, for the 50th episode of the Freedom Forum. Dr. Breaux shares her journey from Mississippi to Spelman College, her pursuit of a Ph.D. in organic chemistry at Purdue, and her career path leading to leadership in regulatory affairs. She discusses the influence of her HBCU education, her parents’ legacy as college professors, and her experiences navigating STEM as one of few Black women in the field.

On this episode of the Freedom Forum, Angela B. Freeman talks with Burnell “BJ” Grimes Jr., director of Legal for North America Energy Solutions at Carrier Global Corporation. A lifelong Hoosier, Grimes shares his path from IU Bloomington and IU McKinney Law School to big law, government service and corporate counsel. He also discusses the criticality of intellectual property and legal operations on innovation and growth for any company, large or small.  Burnell further describes the importance of mentorship, authenticity, and the importance of community involvement for all leaders to have legacy impact.

Dr. Russell Ledet, M.D., Ph.D., M.B.A., shares his remarkable journey from digging through dumpsters as a child to becoming a triple board resident at IU Health. In this powerful episode of The Freedom Forum, host Angela B. Freeman explores how Dr. Ledet’s time in the U.S. Navy, his experience at an HBCU, and his pursuit of advanced education shaped his commitment to leadership, equity and service. He discusses founding The 15 White Coats, fostering culturally relevant literacy, launching Reels and Roots, and developing an AI-powered mental health app to bridge communication between parents and teens. Dr. Ledet also reflects on how Indiana can build a more inclusive future in healthcare leadership.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

Dr. Katasha S. Butler, PharmD, MBA, joins The Freedom Forum to share her inspiring rise from a curious grade schooler in Illinois to a senior healthcare leader at Eskenazi Health. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Butler reflects on her time at Spelman College and Butler University, her rapid ascent into pharmacy leadership, and the challenges she’s faced as a Black woman navigating bias in highly regulated systems. She unpacks the complexities of formulary management, regulatory compliance, and strategic partnerships—all while leading with empathy and integrity. From people-first leadership to breaking down barriers in healthcare access and equity, Dr. Butler’s story is a powerful testament to purpose, resilience, and the impact of showing up fully and authentically.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

Our guest on this 46th episode of the 2025 season—celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month—is Kaye Vitug, senior vice president and chief financial officer at Roche Diagnostics. Vitug shares her powerful personal and professional journey from growing up in the Philippines to becoming a top financial executive in the global pharmaceutical and diagnostics industry. She reflects on the values of education, service, faith and community that shaped her leadership style, and discusses the challenges of immigrating to the United States and navigating a corporate career as a Filipino American woman. Vitug also speaks about the importance of cultural agility, drawing from her global experiences in California, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Switzerland and now Indiana. She offers valuable insight into the responsibilities of a CFO, the importance of authenticity in leadership, and the role that mentorship, coaching and sponsorship play in developing emerging leaders—particularly those from diverse backgrounds. She emphasizes resilience, humility and strategic thinking as essential qualities for success, and shares how her career has been shaped by leaders who took a chance on her potential. This episode is a thoughtful reflection on inclusive leadership, global experience and the importance of creating environments where all professionals can thrive.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

Our guest on this 45th episode is Leon Williamson, Indianapolis market president for iHeartMedia. Leon shared his career journey from his Jamaican roots to leading one of the largest media organizations in the world. Leon reflected on the cultural shifts he experienced moving from Miami to the Midwest, and the importance of building local community and cultural connection both personally and professionally. Leon also discussed how his sales background and authentic leadership style have shaped his approach to managing diverse teams and fostering organizational success. Finally, he offered thoughtful insights on the evolving discourse around diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how individuals—particularly young or underrepresented professionals—can develop the confidence and clarity needed to lead with purpose and conviction.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

In this special Women’s History Month episode of The Freedom Forum, host Angela B. Freeman talks with Tiffany Munsell, senior vice president of mature engine programs at Rolls-Royce. An Indianapolis native, Tiffany shares her unconventional path from law school to venture capital to aerospace leadership, highlighting the grit and resilience required to balance motherhood, career pivots and professional growth. She discusses her early role in helping launch Elevate Ventures, her transition to Rolls-Royce during the pandemic, and the challenges and rewards of being a Black female leader in a male-dominated industry. Tiffany also reflects on the lasting impact of her education at Spelman College, the importance of authenticity in leadership and the need for psychological safety in the workplace.  Start your dollar a week trial now at ⁠IBJ.com/trialoffer⁠ Check out our event lineup and register now at ⁠IBJ.com/Register ⁠ Discover which programs are accepting nominations now at ⁠IBJ.com/Nominate⁠

In this special Women’s History Month episode of The Freedom Forum, host Angela B. Freeman talks with Tiffany Munsell, senior vice president of mature engine programs at Rolls-Royce. An Indianapolis native, Tiffany shares her unconventional path from law school to venture capital to aerospace leadership, highlighting the grit and resilience required to balance motherhood, career pivots and professional growth. She discusses her early role in helping launch Elevate Ventures, her transition to Rolls-Royce during the pandemic, and the challenges and rewards of being a Black female leader in a male-dominated industry. Tiffany also reflects on the lasting impact of her education at Spelman College, the importance of authenticity in leadership and the need for psychological safety in the workplace.

Our guest on this 2025 Black History Month (BHM) episode is John Gaidoo of Cummins Inc. John discussed his executive legal career journey culminated by his African heritage, Marine military service, and training as a labor and employment attorney. John also discussed his real life and sometimes disparate experiences as a diverse man in corporate leadership, and the importance of leading an organization that shares your personal values and core belief system. Finally, John gave very transparent examples of the characteristics and skills that make for a great leader of people and how organizations can and should continue to invest and pour into their folks.

Al London is the Community Impact Director and Sr. Vice President at Old National Bank. Al shared some great information on how the banking industry has become more intentional about supporting and educating diverse communities to successfully prepare to obtain funding for home or business ownership and to reduce the wealth gap by helping the underserved and underbanked grow generational wealth. Importantly, Al forecast his current involvement in a legacy-creating passion project to build (literally from the ground up) Indiana’s first-ever Minority Depository Institution (MDI), Generations Community Bank, which is slated to open later this year with him as its CEO.

To round out our sports leadership focus this year, on this final 2024 episode of Indianapolis Business Journal’s podcast, The Freedom Forum with Angela B. Freeman, we are excited to announce our guest is Mary Kay Huse of Indy Ignite Pro Volleyball. Mary Kay stopped by the studio to tell us all about this brand new professional women’s volleyball team beginning its first season here in Indianapolis on January 11, 2025. Specifically, Mary Kay provided significant insight into how this first expansion team of the Pro Volleyball Federation landed in Indy, has recruited its players, and is working to ensure this new professional women’s sport incites a substantial following to establish its own legacy that will continue for years. Mary Kay also described her own entrepreneurial leadership journey that has led to this unique and exciting career opportunity through which she intends to have lasting impact.

In nearing the end of our focus this year on leadership in sports organizations in Indiana, we sat down with Sarah Myer of Indiana Sports Corp. Sarah dropped by the studio to provide some insights on how this sports-centered nonprofit, headquartered right here in the Hoosier state, has set the standard in our country as the first to ever facilitate the bidding and implementation of world class sporting events, such as the 2012 Super Bowl, past or future NBA/WBNA All-Stars, and NCAA Basketball championships. Sarah also describes how she has been successful in leading her team and countless volunteers to be the standard bearers in the level of community engagement and Hoosier hospitality that has been noted and admired by visitors from around the world, making us a premiere host city.

As we turn the page on another season in Indiana this year, we continue to focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in Indiana’s major sports league. This month we shine light on a lesser known sports institution based in our state that is having local, national, and international impact. Our guest,  Evelyn Magley, is the CEO of The Basketball League (TBL). Ms. Evelyn is the first woman and/or African-American woman to own a men’s professional sports organization. She stopped by our studio to discuss her inspiration and motivation that has led her to form and grow TBL, and her aspirations for the future and legacy of the organization.

Jasmine Park is the Vice President of People, Culture, and Inclusion for the Indianapolis Colts. In keeping with our focus on professional sports this year, Jasmine dropped by the studio to discuss her experience as a diverse woman in sports and how she was able to be particularly influential in the interview and hiring process that resulted in The Colts’ new head coach. Jasmine also described how she intentionally and authentically works to mentor, educate, and empower the younger generation of diverse leaders to be successful in sports and/or any career they desire to pursue in Indiana.

Randy Lewandowski is the President and CEO of the Indianapolis Indians. As we continue our focus on sports organizations in Indiana, we invited Randy to come by the studio to discuss the rich history and tradition of Indiana’s oldest Minor League baseball team, his significant tenure and advancement with their organization, and how their organization has evolved over the years. In particular, Randy was very transparent about the intentionality of his former leadership and his current responsibility to make baseball more inclusive to all and to ensure Victory Field continues to be a staple of the Indianapolis community. Randy was very transparent about his personal relationship and growth in authentic leadership, empathy, and mentorship as related to identifying and growing emerging or diverse talent.

Kristin Weeden is the Chief Talent Officer at Penske Entertainment. As we continue our focus on sports organizational leadership in Indianapolis this year, we wanted to check back in with Penske, including Indianapolis Motor Speedway, INDYCAR, and IMS Productions, to learn about what they are doing from a Human Resources perspective to continue to make the track an inclusive environment for its employees, interns, and fans. Kristin came by the studio and provided great insight into some of the wonderful programs, initiatives, and thought leadership that she and others on the Penske leadership team are implementing to effectuate and drive real change, real fast. Kristin also provided great transparency regarding some of the pragmatic challenges that women face when in positions of leadership in sports, particularly male sports organizations.

Jamie Riley is the Chief Operating Officer at USA Football.  In keeping with our focus on professional sports organizations in our community, Jamie came by the studio to tell us about all the amazing things happening with football at the Olympic level and at the grassroots - not the kind you watch on Sunday - in light of their notably increased participation across the country. Jamie also described her experiences as a female executive in arguably one of the most male-dominated of sports. Particularly in light of the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics and the USA Swimming trials happening this summer in Indianapolis, Jamie shed some light and exciting news on the evolution of flag football for all amongst the Olympic Games.

Halston Mavrick is the Director of Brand Partnerships at Indy Fuel Hockey Club. In continuing with our focus on sports organizations in Indianapolis, Halston dropped by the studio to provide some unique insights as to the origin of hockey in Indiana. She also discussed the sport’s growing following and fandom in the Hoosier state, and what exciting opportunities are on the horizon for this sports club, including a new venue and football team. Importantly, Halston described how Indy Fuel is intentionally and continually focused on ensuring that a diverse fan base has exposure and access to the sport of hockey.

Dr. Niya Blair Hackworth is the Director of Inclusion of the NCAA. In keeping with our sports focus and their organizational forces in Indiana, Dr. Niya came by the studio to discuss her career path in higher education administration and its evolution over many years at multiple universities prior to joining the NCAA. With an evolving focus on what is now called “diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB),” Dr. Hackworth shared some of her experiences, challenges, and successes in doing “the work” that has fueled her passion for impacting and improving the student experience for all, and especially the over 500,000 student-athletes at the 1100 member schools that the NCAA governs.

Dr. Allison Barber is the President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the Indiana Fever. On this Women’s History Month episode, Allison discusses her career ascension to her current role at the Indiana Fever by way of 8 previous roles in education, government, communications, and more. Allison also discusses her leadership role of the Indiana Fever, her day to day tasks, and her influence in business and women’s sports, such as the WNBA. Importantly, Dr. Barber also provides some vignette of what excitement may lie ahead for Indianapolis with the possibility of the Indiana Fever having the first-round draft pick and how that opportunity will only provide another tool in our strong toolbelt of talent at The Fever and in our city’s noteworthy sports landscape.

Max Siegel is the CEO of USA Track and Field. In this episode, Max discusses his experiences and lessons learned over the course of his wide array of professional endeavors. Max also touched on his contributions and investments to diversify the racing industry and so many other industries and organizations he has engaged in and impacted through his historical leadership. Finally, Max provided some insights into what we can expect for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics and the Olympic swimming trials being held in Indianapolis in June.

Mel Raines is the president and COO of Pacers Sports & entertainment. In this episode, Mel discussed her current position resulting from a career transition from politics to sports and her leadership of the Pacers organization in that role. Importantly, Mel also touches on all the things our community should know about NBA All-Star weekend coming up in Indianapolis next month, particularly how the organizing committee is encouraging maximum community participation and involvement as the world’s eyes are on our city. Mel was particularly transparent about the intentional incorporation of our diverse Indianapolis food, arts, and culture scene in the NBA All-Star weekend to ensure this event is inclusive of all people who will be attending.

Robert Shegog is the President and CEO of a historically diverse media organization based in Indianapolis, Recorder Media Group. In this episode, Robert discusses how he has been perfectly positioned for his current role. Robert specifically describes how his unique experiences of being raised in the Deep South, being a Navy veteran, graduating from a HBCU, and overcoming a speech impediment have all collectively worked to develop his leadership skills, build his confidence, provide transferable skills, and drive his current passions around giving “a voice to the voiceless”! Robert also gives us a snippet of what may be expected from the 17th Annual Champion of Diversity awards program coming in January, 2024.

Alan Mills, often referred to as “The Godfather” of Barnes & Thornburg LLP, is a partner at the Indianapolis office.  Moreso, Alan is the first African-American/Black employee, attorney, and partner at Barnes & Thornburg.  He has built a career, reputation, and legacy on doing great legal work and increasing the diverse representation of attorneys at Barnes & Thornburg and at all levels and facets of the legal industry. Alan is a connector and is responsible for helping attorneys across this country, particularly diverse attorneys, obtain and thrive in legal careers in firms, corporations, government, and elsewhere.  In this episode, Alan drops some knowledge and wisdom on the evolution of the legal community and its practices here in Indiana as he prepares for his impending retirement at the end of 2023 after 41 years as a lawyer.

Marisa Kwiatkowski is an investigative reporter at USA Today.  In this episode, Marisa talks about diversity, equity, and inclusion in journalism and media and how she’s seen the industry change over the last two decades. Marisa also discusses how the Hoosier state was critical to her success in this industry and why it’s important for aspiring journalists to know there is a future in Indiana for you.

Juan Gonzalez is the President of the Central Indiana market for KeyBank. In this episode, Juan talks about his experiences in Indiana business over the last two decades. Juan was particularly candid about the wealth of opportunity he has found in Indiana after coming here from Colombia to attend graduate school and how his inclusion in the Hoosier culture continues to drive his corporate and community engagement today.

Anthony Prather is the Vice President and General Counsel of IU. In this episode, Anthony shares some valuable lessons he has learned over the course of his long and esteemed legal career as both inside and outside counsel. Anthony also shared how those lessons continue to inform his leadership as chief legal officer of IU. Anthony was very transparent and forthright about his experiences and his commitment to ensure diverse representation in his outside legal counsel and how he actively works to ensure qualified diverse talent is considered at all levels of IU’s legal organization.

Brandi Davis-Handy is the Chief Customer Officer, US Utilities at The AES Corporation. In this second anniversary episode, Brandi discusses the importance of people-centric cultures and community engagement to provide public visibility and validation to any company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) objectives and progress. As an Indianapolis native, Brandi conveys her hometown pride in the progress our city and state have made on the DEI front. She also offers valuable suggestions on how our business community can continue to impact and elevate its DEI presence on a national level.

Rod Cotton is the  Chief of Staff and Head of Strategy & Transformation at Roche. In this episode, Rod discusses his views and vantage point on the evolution and elevation of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and initiatives over his 40+ year career in the healthcare industry. Rod also shares many nuggets of wisdom and personally treasured moments resulting from his professional involvement in DEI programs at the executive leadership and C-suite level, particularly as he eyes official retirement at the close of this month.

Kim Thomas is the Chief DEI Officer & Head of Community Affairs at One America. In this episode, Kim shares how the goals and expectations for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and programs have changed over the last two decades in multiple fields, particularly from the Human Resources perspective. Kim also discussed how she and her team remain inspired and motivated to further impact change for the future of DEI in the financial industry.

In this episode, William (Bill) Heath, Group Vice President of Medicines Innovation Hub (MIH) at Eli Lilly and Company, shares his experiential learnings and empathetic approach to implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) based on his background, upbringing, and the diverse individuals who surround him.  He also discusses the importance of these "reverse mentors" in recognizing and overcoming barriers and obstacles to identifying and hiring new diverse talent. Bill further emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and supported and highlights the role of leadership in promoting DEI and holding themselves accountable for progress.

For this Women’s History Month episode we are joined by Nichole Wilson. Nichole is the Vice President of Community Health Operations at IU Health and an Indianapolis native. She stopped by the studio to drop some insightful and encouraging knowledge about her tenure and advancement in healthcare administration and executive leadership over the last two decades. Nichole also shared how she and her team are working hard to be a “voice for the voiceless” with regard to health and pay equity as critically necessary to improve health and economic outcomes for all Indianapolis and Hoosier residents.

Brian Richardson Jr. is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at the Indianapolis Colts. In this episode, Brian provides insight into his impressive career journey from sports and fitness through academia as well as his current dream job as the inaugural Director of DEI at the Indianapolis Colts. In making Black history with this position, Brian also helps us to understand how he prepared for this influential role and the impact he hopes to make at the Colts organization as well as in our beloved city of Indianapolis.

Jimmie McMillian is Senior Corporate Counsel at Penske Entertainment and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. On this “reverse podcast,” dubbed “Flip the Script,” Jimmie builds on his long-time mentoring relationship with our regular host, Angela B. Freeman, to serve as guest host and allow our audience an opportunity to get to know Angela better. Throughout the conversation, Angela transparently shares her career journey and life experiences, including successes, failures, and lessons learned. Angela also describes her transition from science to law, as well as her long-term advocacy for more diverse representation in STEM and law over more than two decades and her continued and future focus on the same.

Leon Jackson is the chancellor at Marian University's Saint Joseph's College, a two-year associate degree college based at the Indianapolis campus. In this episode, Leon discusses his personal path to and through academia, how he became chancellor of Saint Joseph’s College, and his impact in that role to prepare diverse talent for success in higher education. Leon also discusses the importance of the Diversity in Leadership program that he founded to prepare diverse leaders for executive roles in our Indiana corporations and businesses.

Lucia Mar is the Vice President, Market Executive at Bank of America in Indianapolis. In this episode, Lucia discussed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from the lens of an Asian American woman in the financial industry. Lucia was very transparent in discussing her experiences as well as her elevation to leadership in banking, her quick integration into the Indianapolis business community, and her advice for the younger generation.

Pete Yonkman is the President of Cook Medical and Cook Group. In this episode, although Pete acknowledges that Cook hasn’t yet cracked the code on DEI, he engages in a very transparent conversation about how he and Cook have approached diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts that have had a significant impact on the members of his organization, their families, as well as members of our Indiana communities.

Jeffrey A. Harrison is the president and chief executive officer of Citizens Energy Group, where he is responsible for establishing and maintaining the vision and strategic direction of the organization. In this episode host, Angela B. Freeman talks with Jeffrey about the criticality of authenticity and community impact for any corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative, with respect to his unique vantage point as a long-term utilities executive. Jeff also dives into the data and resources provided by Business Equity for Indy to better implement DEI in the Central Indianapolis and statewide corporate community.

Rafael Sanchez is Executive Vice President, Chief Impact Officer & Indianapolis Market President at Old National Bank. In this episode host, Angela B. Freeman talks with Rafael about diversity, equity, and inclusion from a unique and authentic vantage point as a LatinX male executive in the banking and lending industry, and all the creative ways he and Old National Bank are trying to address so many historical challenges to achieve equitable lending and other inclusive workplace practices.

Angela Smith Jones serves as the vice president of diversity and inclusion at Health & Hospital Corp. In her role, she oversees the strategic implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion across all entities of Health & Hospital, including Eskenazi Health, Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services, and Marion County Public Health Department, ensuring that all employees, patients, clients and vendors feel welcome and valued.    Host Angela B. Freeman talks with Angela Smith Jones about how she has incorporated learnings from her previous role as deputy mayor of economic development for the city of Indianapolis into her new role focusing on DEI in the health care sector

Holli Harrington is the diversity officer and senior director of supplier diversity for the Indianapolis Airport Authority. She joined the airport in 2013, became the organization's first diversity officer in 2018 and joined the executive team in 2020.  Host Angela B. Freeman talks with Holli about her efforts to promote equity in the airport's operations and among its vendors. And they discuss the importance of developing a culture in which employees can bring their authentic selves to work.

Karrah Herring, a South Bend native, never had any interest in working in government or politics. But when she heard Gov. Eric Holcomb explain why he wanted to create the state's first Office of Equity, Inclusion & Opportunity—and create a data portal to track diversity issues—she felt a calling to be part of the effort. Since then, she's traveled the state, talking to businesses and organizations—as well as state agencies—about how to find and retain diverse talent, how to create equitable workplaces and how to invest in inclusion efforts.  "We have to be comfortable challenging ourselves to take this pivotal moment in Indiana's history to change the narrative, to change the faces around the table," Herring told host Angela B. Freeman. "If we say we want to be a premier state, ... we're going to have to make some adjustments so that we can get that talent here." Herring also explains why she believes the office and her position as chief equity, inclusion and opportunity officer should be codified into state law.