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From Startup Founder to Chamber CEO: Lessons in Leadership with Mikel Berger
Episode 45th January 2026 • Spotlight Podcast • Tim Branyan
00:00:00 00:54:56

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Entrepreneurship isn’t about reckless risk — it’s about not quitting. In this episode of The Spotlight, host Tim Branyan sits down with Mikel Berger, President & CEO of Greater Lafayette Commerce, to unpack what real entrepreneurship looks like behind the scenes. From starting a software company straight out of college, to helping launch MatchBOX Coworking Studio, to leading one of Indiana’s most influential business organizations, Mikel shares hard-earned lessons on:

  1. Calculated risk vs. perceived risk
  2. Building businesses without burning the bridge behind you
  3. The power of mentors, spouses, and community
  4. Why entrepreneurship is an infinite game
  5. How chambers of commerce and ecosystems actually help businesses grow

This conversation is packed with wisdom for:

✔️ Entrepreneurs

✔️ Business owners (early-stage to scaling)

✔️ Community leaders

✔️ Anyone curious about sustainable growth and leadership

🎧 Whether you’re building your first company or navigating the next stage of growth, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and practical insight.

🔗 Connect with the People & Organizations Featured:

Host – Tim Branyan (LinkedIn): / timbranyan

Guest – Mikel Berger (LinkedIn): / mikelberger

Indiana SBDC – Hoosier Heartland Region: https://www.isbdc.org/locations/hoosi... Greater Lafayette Commerce: https://www.greaterlafayettecommerce....

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