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How Did the Mini Marathon Get So Big? | CEO of 500 Festival

Bob Bryant, 500 Festival CEO, on transforming Indianapolis each May with the Mini-Marathon and civic events that build community and economic momentum.

Podcast Summary

My guest today is Bob Bryant, President and CEO of the 500 Festival.

We dive into the rich, little-known history of the 500 Festival, an Indianapolis staple, and its broad impact on the local community.

Bob shares insights into the background of the festival, its array of events including the iconic mini marathon, and its educational and fitness programs.

We also discuss the unforgettable personal stories associated with the marathon and the community-driven spirit of the festival.

You are going to learn about:
The history of the 500 festival and Indy Mini Marathon
How the 500 Festival enriches lives, and amplifies the cultural significance of the Indy 500.
Their commitment to the health and wellbeing of Hoosiers

Thank you to our partners:
Warm Glow
Roots Realty

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:15 Meet Bob Bryant: The Man Behind the 500 Festival
02:26 The Origins and Growth of the 500 Festival
09:14 The Mini Marathon: A Running Tradition
16:46 Emotional Stories and Community Impact
26:12 Supporting the 500 Festival: Fundraising and Education
32:28 Gold Star Ceremony and Memorial Service
33:11 Creating the Gold Mile and Honoring Fallen Heroes
34:34 Emotional Impact of the Mini Marathon
36:12 Expanding the Festival to Year-Round Programming
37:22 Youth Health and Fitness Initiatives
38:20 Fundraising and Community Support
42:10 Personal Reflections and Awards
46:11 Final Thoughts and Community Involvement

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

Guest(s)

Bob Bryant

Date Published

April 30, 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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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.

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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.