Brian Schutt, Director of Indiana's Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, joins the Spotlight Podcast to unpack the "silver tsunami" — the wave of baby boomer business owners retiring without succession plans, which threatens nearly 19% of Indiana's GDP. He shares how his office's KEEP Initiative (including a "Zillow for small businesses" marketplace) is tackling this crisis, plus his philosophy on entrepreneurship, community-driven growth, and why he believes there's never been a better time to start a business.

01:30 Meet Brian Schutt: The "Accidental Entrepreneur"

04:00 Building Refinery46 & Reviving a City Block

07:30 Sponsor Break: Community First Bank

09:00 Landing the State Director Role

12:30 Leading with Curiosity, Not Prescribed Solutions

16:00 What Surprised Him Touring Indiana's 92 Counties

20:00 Social Capital vs. Financial Capital

23:00 The Governor's Vision for Main Street Businesses

27:00 What Is the "Silver Tsunami"? 30:00 Inside the KEEP Initiative & SMB.co Marketplace

35:00 Why Indiana Is One of the Best States to Start a Business

40:00 Local Resources for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

44:00 Advice: Show Up, Sign Up, Stay Consistent

48:00 Closing Thoughts & How to Connect with the Office

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Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and do not reflect our official policy. Content is based on guest opinions and is not intended to offend or harm any group or individual. Always seek professional advice for legal, financial, or business matters.