Business Digest Radio

On this edition of The Business Signal, Dirk Hobbs sits down with PteroDynamics CEO Matthew Graczyk to explore one of Southern Colorado’s most intriguing aerospace and defense technology companies. At the center of the conversation is Transwing, PteroDynamics’ autonomous vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. The platform is designed to address one of the military’s most difficult logistics challenges: moving critical cargo and supplies into locations where traditional runways may be unavailable, vulnerable or nonexistent. Graczyk discusses how autonomous aircraft could provide an alternative to traditional rotor- and fixed-wing operations, reducing costs while allowing personnel to operate from a safer distance. The conversation explores the technology behind Transwing, the growing role of autonomous aviation in defense logistics, and the challenges of moving an advanced aerospace platform from engineering and flight testing toward larger-scale production. Graczyk also discusses PteroDynamics’ growth and financial position, including its latest investment from ONE Bow River, the company’s contract with the Royal Australian Navy, and how additional investment is helping accelerate development, manufacturing and PteroDynamics’ expanding presence in Colorado Springs. VISIT PTERODYNAMICS: https://pterodynamics.com

Sports are part of Colorado Springs’ identity. They’re also an increasingly important part of its economy. I sat down with Megan Leatham, President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation, to talk about the business behind sports, from tourism and event recruitment to hotels, restaurants, venues, community investment and the economic impact created when athletes and spectators come to the Pikes Peak region. We also look at what Colorado Springs must continue doing to compete nationally as a sports destination. It’s a conversation about what happens beyond the scoreboard. Engage your business with Sports Corp: https://coloradospringssports.org  🎙️ The Business Signal | AM 740 KVOR. #MeganLeatham #COSSportsCorp #SportsEconomy #UFL #USL

What should Southern Colorado expect from the person it sends to Congress - and how much can one member of the U.S. House realistically accomplish for the region? On this edition of The Business Signal, Dirk Hobbs sits down with Jessica Killin, Democratic candidate for Colorado’s 5th Congressional District, for an extended conversation about the economy, affordability, national defense, federal spending and the role Washington plays in the future of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region. Killin discusses the experiences she believes prepare her for Congress, including her military service, private-sector work and time in Washington, while addressing what she sees as the most consequential issues facing families, employers and the broader Southern Colorado economy. She also addresses the negative ads that have been since taken down against her opponent, sitting Congressman, Jeff Crank (R).  The conversation moves beyond campaign talking points to examine the practical questions facing the next representative from the 5th District: What can Congress actually do about rising household costs? How should the federal government approach spending and the national debt? What does effective representation look like for a community whose economy is deeply connected to the military, defense and aerospace sectors? And where should voters expect independence rather than party-line politics? It’s a substantive candidate conversation designed to give voters a clearer understanding of Jessica Killin’s experience, priorities and approach to governing ahead of the 2026 election.

The business of news is changing rapidly and the consequences extend far beyond the media industry itself. On this edition of The Business Signal, Dirk Hobbs speaks with journalist and Colorado College professor Corey Hutchins about the changing economics of journalism, the pressures facing local news organizations, and what those shifts mean for communities, businesses and civic life. The conversation explores how consolidation, shrinking newsroom resources, changing consumer habits and new digital platforms have transformed the way news is produced and consumed. Hutchins also discusses the challenges of sustaining credible local journalism in an environment where audiences have more information available than ever, but often fewer professionally staffed newsrooms covering their communities. The discussion also examines trust, media literacy, the role of journalism in holding institutions accountable, and why a strong local news ecosystem remains important to business leaders, policymakers and residents alike. It’s a thoughtful look at the intersection of journalism, business and community and at what may be required to keep meaningful local reporting viable in the years ahead. https://www.coloradocollege.edu/other/journalism-institute/  #TheBusinessSignal #LocalJournalism #ColoradoMedia #Journalism #MediaBusiness #ColoradoCollege #LocalNews #MediaLiteracy #BusinessNews #ColoradoSprings #SouthernColorado #ColoradoMediaGroup

Beyond the Music What happens when entrepreneurship, music and community development come together? On The Business Signal, Dirk Hobbs welcomes TerryJosiah Sharpe, founding partner of Colorado Springs-based Anthem Music Enterprises (AME), for a look at a creative enterprise working to connect independent artists with professional opportunities while using music as a vehicle for community engagement and mental wellness. Founded in Colorado Springs, AME Industries has developed an ecosystem of recording, music production, artist development, live entertainment and youth education programs. Its approach reflects a broader opportunity for Southern Colorado: building a sustainable creative economy that develops local talent, supports entrepreneurship and creates meaningful community connections. Now, they are taking their mission into Denver as well. The episode explores the business possibilities within arts and entertainment, the importance of investing in emerging creative professionals, and the role private enterprise can play in strengthening the region's cultural landscape. The Business Signal: Bringing Southern Colorado's business stories, industry leaders and emerging opportunities into focus. See Anthem Music Enterprises: https://ameindustries.com