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Inside the Most Dominant High School Sports Program in America

Chris Plumb, CEO of Carmel Swim Club, shares how he transformed a state program into an international powerhouse producing Olympians and world champions while developing life skills.

Podcast Summary

On today’s show I swam into deep waters with Chris Plumb, head coach and CEO of the Carmel Swim Club, to explore the club's journey from a state-level powerhouse to a national and international sensation.

Chris shares his vision and the evolution of the club since 2006, highlighting the importance of building a culture of excellence, the role of character development, and the intricacies of managing a large team.

Our discussion dives into the impressive achievements of the club's athletes, including producing Olympians and world champions while emphasizing the life skills learned through swimming.

Chris also discusses the future of Carmel Swim Club, from hosting the World Aquatics Swimming World Cup to ongoing community impact through swim lessons and safety programs.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast

You are going to learn about:

  • How Carmel Swimming Became a State, National and International Powerhouse

  • Carmel Swim Club’s Athletes and Achievements and Life Skills Gained Via Swimming

  • The Future of Carmel Swim Club

Thank you to our partners:
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance
Elements Financial

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:36 Guest Introduction: Chris Plumb, Carmel Swim Club
02:59 Carmel Swim Club vs. Carmel High School Swimming
05:26 Training Regimen and Athlete Development
11:54 Building a Championship Culture
23:41 The Shackell Siblings: From High School to the Olympics
31:26 Maintaining Focus on Long-Term Goals
31:41 The Excitement of Indianapolis Swim Meets
32:40 Preparing for the Olympics
34:22 The Journey of Carmel Swimmers
36:02 The Importance of High School Sports
42:16 Carmel Swim Academy and Community Impact
51:51 Reflections and Future Aspirations

Guest(s)

Chris Plumb

Date Published

October 22, 2025

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.
A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.