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He Risked It All and Built the Most Upscale Gym in Carmel

Gemi Ozdemir shares how Ozwell Fitness blends design, wellness, and community—from a retractable dome to rebuilding after a tornado. An inspiring Indiana story.

Podcast Summary

In today’s episode I was joined by Gemi Ozdemir, the founder of Ozwell Fitness, a unique wellness studio in Carmel.

Gemi shares the inspiring story behind his innovative gym, which features a retractable dome inspired by his father's invention, dating back to the 1980s.

We delve into the challenges and triumphs Gemi faced, from managing financial hurdles to dealing with a tornado that significantly impacted the gym.

We conclude with fun anecdotes and insights into future plans for Ozwell Fitness, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in wellness, entrepreneurship, and community building in Indiana.

You are going to learn about:

  • The Design, Features and Sense of Community at Ozwell Fitness

  • Gemi’s Experiences with Business Development

  • Gemi’s Previous Ventures in Real Estate and Acting

Thank you to our partners:
Red, White & Brauen Music Festival
Keller & Keller

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:13 Guest Introduction: Gemi Ozdemir, Ozwell Fitness
02:30 The Unique Design and Features of Ozwell Fitness
08:31 The Family Legacy Behind the Dome
12:59 Building the Gym: Challenges and Adaptations
26:21 Community Gym Rebuild
28:39 Navigating Financial Adversity
29:53 Real Estate Challenges
32:06 Gym Business Model
38:18 Future Plans and Expansion
46:46 Recovery and Wellness Trends
51:49 Seinfeld Extra Experience
53:20 Auditioning and Acting in LA
54:10 Entrepreneurial Ventures in Chicago
57:20 Wellness and Gym Ownership
58:47 Fasting and Fitness Challenges
01:01:42 Ironman and Personal Challenges

Guest(s)

Gemi Ozdemir

Date Published

June 20, 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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Podcast

Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

Podcast

Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

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.