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The Freedom Forum with Angela B. Freeman

The Freedom Forum with Angela B. Freeman

Written by: IBJ Media
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 Indianapolis attorney Angela B. Freeman talks with guests about how the business community is tackling issues related to race, equity, gender and inclusion—in the workplace, the C-suite and in decisions about funding.All Rights Reserved Economics Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Indianapolis Airport Authority CEO Mario Rodriguez on leadership, service and talent

    Indianapolis Airport Authority CEO Mario Rodriguez on leadership, service and talent
    Jan 28 2026
    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.
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    58 mins
  • Jackie Gessner, JD Finish Line Vice President of Talent Management and HR Compliance

    Jackie Gessner, JD Finish Line Vice President of Talent Management and HR Compliance
    Dec 31 2025
    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.
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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • Darrell Johnson, President and CEO of Diversity Press

    Darrell Johnson, President and CEO of Diversity Press
    Nov 26 2025
    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.
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    50 mins
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