This week hosts Marty Mechtenberg and Susan Ford speak with Rich Carlton, President of Aunalytics, a company that specializes in managed IT and analytics services. Rich discusses the fascinating journey of Aunalytics, exploring how it has paved the way for innovation and technology in the South Bend-Elkhart region. He shares insights into the company's foundations, its critical role in local economic development, and the significant impact of its AI-driven analytics services in transforming regional businesses.

Listen as Marty, Susan, and Rich talk about the strides being made in the South Bend-Elkhart region, driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation and community-focused growth.

• "Everybody is a technology company now in some way, shape, or form. And if you can't deliver technology, then you're not going to be competitive.” -Rich Carlton [03:23]

• “We felt like from the beginning that Aunalytics could be a platform that could spearhead a lot of other growth opportunities for businesses in the region.” -Rich Carlton [13:11]

TIMESTAMPS

(00:01) Innovative IT and Analytics Strategies for Regional Business Growth

(02:23) Solving Talent and Technology Challenges in Secondary Markets

(06:32) Building a Data Center with Community and Investor Support

(08:30) Revitalizing South Bend and Elkhart Through Entrepreneurial Innovation

(14:59) AI Boom and Its Impact on Local Businesses

(18:35) Leveraging Data Insights for Proactive Customer Engagement

(21:31) Building a Competitive Tech Hub in an Unexpected Region

(27:55) Launching a Breakfast Restaurant in South Bend

(30:42) Lessons Learned from Entrepreneurial Ventures and Risk-Taking

(35:29) Balancing Family, Work, and Coaching Through Sports Lessons

(38:10) Entrepreneurial Success and Community Support in South Bend

RESOURCES

Rich Carlton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfcarlton/

CONTACT

Martin Mechtenberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-mechtenberg-515a648/

Susan Ford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-howard-ford-8446441/