Tony welcomes back Tom Gantert, Managing Editor of Michigan Capitol Confidential, a daily news site of the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, for a follow-up discussion about the funding of news sources, and media's persuasive ways across the country and in Michigan.
They review crossed paths in their career, and then Tom's journey over the years and what he sees in media bias, along with how stories are covered (or aren't), and whether this trend will change.
When Gantert arrived at Capitol Confidential as Senior Capitol Correspondent in February 2010, he already had extensive experience as a journalist, having worked for more than 20 years at Michigan daily newspapers, including The Jackson Citizen Patriot, Lansing State Journal and Ann Arbor News. Gantert also served a four-month stint at USA Today as part of a Gannett Corporation loaner program. In 2008, Gantert was The Ann Arbor News writer of the year, and in September 2009, he founded Reporting Michigan, a nonprofit news Web site.
Gantert holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Michigan State University. He has two sons and lives in Jackson, Mich.
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Media Business | Media and Their Persuasive Ways

Vic Verchereau welcomes Erin Brains, who is the Co-Creator & Event Coordinator of Lansing Foodies.

Erin and James Brains created Lansing Foodies in 2017 because they wanted to find the best food in the area, and there were no good resources at the time. Since creating the community, they've become the number one resource for all things food in Mid-Michigan. They are celebrating successfully creating Michigan’s first Olive Burger Festival and working on the exciting follow up coming in the summer of 2024. 

Vic Verchereau sits down with Erin to get her thoughts on the greater Lansing food scene!  Bring your appetite, and hear about all that is going on right under your nose on this edition of the Michigan Corners show!

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Michigan Corners | Right Under Your Nose!

Chris Holman welcomes back Matt Elliott, Michigan State President and Region Executive, Bank of America Michigan, Detroit, MI.

What are the biggest takeaways that you and Bank of America have when looking back at the 2023 economy, particularly in Michigan?

As we look ahead to 2024, does the bank expect inflation to continue, and what impact do you expect it to have on interest rates?

Could 2024 be a strong year for investors, or is it too soon to tell?

Pundits and economists continue to suggest that there’s still a possibility of a recession, but Bank of America’s analysts and CEO have suggested we may avoid it or have only a slight recession. Do you think we’ll be able to avoid a recession in 2024? 

How does the bank plan to leverage technology and innovation in the upcoming year to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of customers? 

What impact do you think the election cycles in the U.S. and abroad, and other geopolitical instability will have on the economy in Michigan in the year ahead? 

Part of your role at the Bank is as a sustainability leader. How do you see efforts in the U.S. and globally to improve sustainability and battle climate change intersecting with overall economic goals? 

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Michigan Business Beat | Matt Elliott, Bank of America Taking 2023 Success into 2024

Chris Holman welcomes back Ara Topouzian, Executive Director, MVCA, the Michigan Venture Capital Association, operating virtually, across all of Michigan.

Am I catching you in Ann Arbor or somewhere else today?

Remind the statewide business audience about MVCA?

What were your highlights for 2023? 

I recall a Venture Fellows Program being relaunched how has that gone?

What's in store for 2024?

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Michigan Business Beat | Ara Topouzian,  Michigan Venture Capital Association Ready for a Busy 2024!

Chris Holman welcomes back Teri Sand, SHRM-CP, PHR, CBSP, CRP, Business Services Manager, Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham Eaton, and Clinton Counties.

THEME: Teri discusses the challenges of employee retention and the realities of hiring.

Question: Given the current job market, what challenges are employers facing in hiring new employees?  

According to LinkedIn, the following are the top hiring challenges:  

“63% of recruiters say talent shortage is their biggest problem.”  

“76% of hiring managers admit attracting the right job candidate is their greatest challenge.”  

“75% of people would not take a job with a company that had a bad reputation - even if they were unemployed.”  

“70% of the global workforce is made up of passive talent who aren’t actively job searching, and the remaining 30% are active job seekers.”  

Given the best candidates are off the market in 10 days, nearly 60% of job seekers quit online job applications midway due to their length and complexity.   

Question: What is the best way for employers to recruit the right candidates for open positions?  

According to LinkedIn, the recruitment process can directly impact your hiring and people management.  

Email is currently the most used and most effective channel to reach candidates, with 51% of candidates ranking email as their most-used channel for hiring and 39% saying it was the most effective way to communicate with them.  

Many talent teams rank employee referrals as the most important source of hire, and research shows employers can expand their talent pool by 10x by recruiting through their employee networks.   

Employers should also research ways to shorten the hiring process. On average, 55% of the candidates believe it should take less than two weeks from the first interview to a job offer.  

Question: What are some of the challenges employers are facing in regards to employee retention?  

According to Forbes, the United States is currently facing a Great Resignation, “spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, this has turned employment into a worker’s market.”  

According to the Corporate Finance Institute, a worker’s market is defined as, “the place where the supply and the demand for jobs meet, with the workers or labor providing the services that employers demand.” 

As employees are deciding what’s right for them, employers are having to reconsider what actually makes their company worth working for. 

Effective strategies to boost employee job satisfaction:  

Offer competitive base salaries or hourly wages.  

Let your employees work from home.  

Provide flexible scheduling and reduced workdays.  

Encourage and promote a work-life balance.  

Create a culture that employees want to be part of.  

Reduce employee burnout.   

Question: How can CAMW! assist employers with these ongoing issues? 

The Business Services Team at CAMW! can assist employers with hiring.  

For more information and hiring resources, visit: https://www.camw.org/  

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Michigan Business Beat | Teri Sand CAMW! Challenges of Employee Retention and Realities of Hiring

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Sarah Kile, a director with Michigan 2-1-1, a free service that connects residents across the state with help from thousands of health and human resource agencies right in their communities.

 January is Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Month and this conversation with Sarah is on Healthy Communities and these Social Determinants of Health. 

1.          What are social determinants of health and how do they impact businesses, and why should the business community be concerned about these factors?

2.           Can you explain the connection between a healthy community and a thriving business environment,  and how addressing social determinants of health contributes to this synergy?

3.           How does 211 play a role in addressing social determinants of health, and what services does it offer to the community?

4.           In what ways can businesses collaborate with organizations like 211 to address social determinants
of health and contribute to the overall well-being of the community?

5.           Are there specific examples of businesses that have successfully integrated initiatives to address social determinants of health, and what positive outcomes have they experienced?

6.           How can businesses play a role in supporting 211's efforts to connect individuals with essential services and resources related to social determinants of health?

7.           What benefits can businesses derive from investing in community health initiatives and addressing social determinants, both in terms of employee well-being and overall business performance?

8.           Are there any innovative strategies or best practices that businesses can adopt to make a meaningful impact on social determinants of health within their communities?

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Michigan Business Beat | Sarah Kile - Michigan 2-1-1 Reviewing Social Determinants of Health Month

Chris Holman welcomes Nakia Mills, Marketing Director, BBB - Better Business Bureau of Detroit & Eastern Michigan, Southfield, MI. 

Welcome Nakia, remind the Michigan business community about the scope of services by the BBB?

Share with us the 3 highlights from 2023?

And you have 7 notable things we should be on the outlook for in 2024?

Below are specifics and details on the 2023 Recap:

Online purchase scams made up nearly 50% of all scams reported in our service area for 2023 (nearly 47%), while employment scams (13.28%) and phishing (9.41%) round out the top 3 issues reported by consumers in Eastern Michigan and the U.P. 

While these are the top 3, we also have to remember there are so many other types of scams reported - involving a range of manipulative ways to trick you out of your money. For instance, romance scams only accounted for less than 0.5% of scams reported, but those victims rank #2 when it comes to the amount of funds lost. 

Overall, victims in our service area reported losing a total of nearly $2 million due to scams. The online purchase scams we mentioned account for nearly $1 million alone ($855,236.90). It is important to remember that both business and consumers can fall victim to online scammers. 
 
Here are the points of a 2024 Outlook:

BBB is well-known as being the organization consumers think of after they have been scammed. In 2024 and beyond, we want to also remind both individuals and companies that BBB offers educational tools and resources to help protect yourself and your business from becoming a victim in the first place. 

We are looking forward to holding business card exchanges, community speaking engagements and other types of events to keep both business and consumers informed about safe, smart ways to operate in the marketplace. 

With online purchase scams remaining so prevalent, we will be putting effort into educating consumers on red flags related to the online marketplace. We want to see this number go down in 2024!

This interview is taking place during Identity Theft Awareness Week (Jan. 29 - Feb. 2) so it would make sense for us to mention this and share some cybersecurity tips. 

We will also closely watch AI this year to help be sure consumers of all ages understand the importance of not trusting everything you see or hear without double-checking. The voice you hear on the end of the phone asking for emergency funds might not really be your friend who somehow got stuck oversees!

It's an election year, so we will work to keep consumers informed about ways to protect themselves from political scams. Emotions run high during the election season and scammers will try to get "donations" to support the causes they believe people are most passionate about. 

Employment scams are on the rise, especially with the young adult population. These job seekers believe they've landed a job, but instead they've just handed over all their personal information to a scammer. 

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Michigan Business Beat | Nakia Mills Reviewing BBB - Better Business Bureau's 23 and Helping in '24

Vic Verchereau welcomes Barb Schmidt, who is the Executive Director at the Capital Area Literacy Coalition.

You're never too old to learn is a basic principle of the "Reading People."  That's the Capital Area Literacy Coalition and their leader, Barb Schmidt, is the Executive Director.  She says "each year our staff assists hundreds of students on their journeys toward achieving personal educational goals.  Led by our Board of Directors, we are united by our passion and purpose: ensuring everyone in our community is empowered with the ability to read."  Barb follows in the organization's founder's footsteps, Dr. Lois Bader, and shares her passion for helping people make their life's journey meaningful and full of opportunity.  Vic Verchereau gets the scoop on this edition of the Leadership Lowdown; don't miss it!

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Leadership Lowdown | You're Never Too Old to Learn

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Doug Lloyd, Eaton County Prosecutor, Delta Twp, Michigan,

It's been about a week since Prosecutor Lloyd announced his re-election plans for 2024.
As this Chief law enforcement officer looks to build on 24-year service to Eaton County.

Welcome Doug, now this is a business broadcast, a little more targeted than a general conversation so,...

From what I understand you have current oversight of the economic crimes units and previous work with the Office Economic Crimes Unit (ECU) (which manages the bad check, welfare fraud, retail fraud, failure to return property/library property, and social security fraud diversion programs), tell us about that?
 
For our statewide business audience are there Specific cases you have seen/can speak on that directly pertain to businesses, e.g., fraud and property violations?

How can business across Michigan protect themselves against check/welfare fraud diversion (among other crimes)?

At this point can you share the emphasis the Eaton County Prosecutor’s Office puts on protecting local and state business?

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Prosecutor Doug Lloyd announces

re-election plans for 2024

Chief law enforcement officer to build on 24-year service to Eaton County

DELTA TOWNSHIP, MI – Eaton County Prosecutor Doug Lloyd today reaffirmed his commitment to the residents and businesses of Eaton County, announcing that he will seek re- election in 2024.

Appointed as the county’s chief law enforcement officer in 2013, Lloyd won election to seat in 2014 and, again, in 2016 and 2020. He previously served as Eaton County’s chief assistant prosecuting attorney and Jackson County assistant prosecuting attorney. Prosecutor Lloyd is licensed to practice law in Michigan, Arkansas and Nevada.

“I am honored to continue serving as Eaton County prosecutor,” said Prosecutor Lloyd. “I remain 100% committed to protecting victims of crime, especially violent crime, and bringing to justice criminals and anyone who threatens the safety and security of our residents, businesses and communities.”

In this position, Prosecutor Lloyd leads a team of 10 attorneys and 15 administrative staff members. His responsibilities include managing a caseload averaging 6,000 criminal cases annually. In addition, he is the chief administrator of the Eaton County Prosecutor’s Office Domestic Violence, Drug and Economic Crimes units. His success with the Economic Crimes Unit led to Prosecutor Lloyd’s appointment as special prosecutor in Ingham and Clinton counties for bad check and welfare fraud diversion cases.

His extensive experience prompted a gubernatorial appointment in 2013 to the Organized Retail Fraud Advisory Board. Prosecutor Lloyd also served on the state’s Insurance Fraud Task Force and State Drug Treatment Court Advisory Committee. He is the past president of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan.

“Eaton County is growing and changing, especially in our more populated communities,” said Prosecutor Lloyd. “With that growth comes an increased demand on the Prosecutor’s Office which requires experience, true dedication and commitment. For over 27 years, I have honorably helped victims find justice and successfully put away those whose criminal actions harmed others physically, verbally or financially. I take protecting victims and prosecuting criminals very seriously. Eaton County deserves no less.”

A resident of Delta Township in Eaton County, Prosecutor Lloyd is married to Mina, who recently retired as Ingham County assistant prosecuting attorney after 27 years. They have two sons, Matthew and Nicolas, who both graduated from Michigan State University.

###

Michigan Business Beat | Doug Lloyd, Eaton County Prosecutor, Serving Business Seeking Reelection

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Carlos Martinez, new President for People First Economy, Grand Rapids, MI.

1. Carlos, what drew you to this leadership with the People First Economy (PFE) team, and how did you get interested in furthering sustainable economic development in Michigan?

2. What past work and lived experiences are you bringing to the PFE team when it comes to your role as President?

3. How has the internal transition from former PFE President, Hanna Schulze, to you as the new President been over the past month?

4. How does PFE plan to garner relationships in Michigan to strengthen its reach statewide?

5. What should Michigan business leaders and aspiring business owners know about PFE should they be interested in getting involved with the PFE team?

6. Could you tell me a bit more about PFE’s Thursday, February 29th annual meeting and how listeners can get involved?

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Michigan Business Beat | Carlos Martinez - New President for People First Economy

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Josh Verhulst, newly a Partner and Chief Growth Officer, Refreshed Tech, Grand Rapids, MI, 

1. Given that your roots are in the Grand Rapids area, how do you see your Michigan background influencing your work with Refreshed Tech in the Midwest?

2. What does it mean to you to be welcomed onto the team as Partner and Chief Growth Officer and how do you intend to incorporate yourself into the Refreshed Tech team with this new leadership title?

3. How do you feel your background in refurbishment and past leadership with brands like eBay and StockX will catapult you into this new role?

4. How do you envision driving long-term, sustainable growth for the business while maintaining a commitment to reducing electronic waste?

5. How do you intend to use your role to uphold relationships with Refreshed Tech's current and future partners?

6. What plans do you have for Refreshed Tech in 2024 that you’d be interested in sharing with Michigan Business Network readers and listeners?

Refreshed Tech Welcomes The New Year with New Partner

Angola-Indiana-based tech-buyback company, Refreshed Tech, continues to grow its team with a Chief Growth Officer from Michigan.

ANGOLA, IN., January 10, 2023 - Information Technology Asset Disposition (ITAD) industry leaders, Refreshed Tech, include Josh Verhulst as Partner and Chief Growth Officer. With this addition to the Refreshed Tech team, CEO and Founder of Refreshed Tech, Kyle Wainwright intends to launch the company into its next phase of growth and development to better service their partners. 

Verhulst has spent the last several years in the secondary market for technology working for exciting startups like StockX and established organizations like eBay. Within these organizations, Verhulst was tasked with growing revenue and providing a seamless experience for buyers and sellers. Below are a few highlights of his experience:

First strategic business development hire for Consumer Electronics at StockX.

Partnered with key brands on cultural marketing initiatives like the JBL/Giannis DropX.

Introduced Certified Refurbished on StockX.

Lead Refurb Business Development at eBay.

Managed the NA sales team onboarding large merchants and enabling them on the platform.

Grew Business Development (BD) Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) contribution >30% Year-over-Year (YoY).

"I'm extremely impressed with what Refreshed Tech has accomplished in its first year-and-a-half of business,” said Verhulst. “I have known Kyle for a number of years and can tell you firsthand how dedicated this team is to supporting its partners. I couldn't be more pleased to join such a high-energy company with a ton of opportunity to innovate and scale in 2024 and beyond.” 


In 2023 alone Refreshed Tech has accomplished the following:

RT is now an eight-figure business growing nearly 300% YoY.

RT processed over 300,000 devices growing over 150% YoY.

Over 300 partners nationwide.

Prevented 195 tons of e-waste.

With the increasing demand for refurbished technology, Verhulst will work to collaborate with industry leaders and partners alike to accomplish the following:

Lead revenue functions of the business including procurement, sales, e-commerce + marketing strategy.

New markets and category expansion.

Long-term, sustainable growth for the business. 

Strategic Investments.

Drive the current workplace culture of excellence and innovation.
###

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Michigan Business Beat | Josh Verhulst, New Partner and Chief Growth Officer, Refreshed Tech

For Media Business Episode 66:

Tony Conley welcomes back Patrick DeHaan, the Petroleum Analyst for GasBuddy.com. He is the gas price guy for oil and refined products which includes gasoline. Patrick is the gas price myth buster and fact checker.

What do you foresee for Michigan gas prices this spring & summer?

How are the Ukraine and Israeli wars affecting gas prices? 

Talk about the debate regarding road taxes and electric cars?

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Thank you to Benjamin Robinson and Motor City Skyline's music

Media Business | Patrick DeHaan - GasBuddy - The Latest on Prices, Conflict, Taxes

Chris Holman welcomes John Shaski, Director of Development and Community Relations, Sparrow Foundation, Lansing, MI

John, please remind the Michigan business community about the Sparrow Foundation?

That title is new for you, tell us about your previous role and what you will be doing now with the Sparrow Foundation?

One of your biggest events of the year the Sparrow Gala is coming up soon?

Who is invited?

You've had these at the University Club, and then High Caliber Karting in recent years tell us about this year's venue?

Tell us about the WHY, what cause or project with Sparrow is benefitting from the fundraisers?

Where can folks go for more information, and is there a deadline to register?

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Michigan Business Beat | John Shaski, Sparrow Foundation - His New Role and Sparrow Gala Preview

Vic Verchereau welcomes Jeff Calhoun, who is the Executive Director for the Mid Michigan region of the Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Jeff Clahoun's work with Big Brothers Big Sisters goes all the way back to his match with a young student and 30 years later, his friendship is still going strong.  But that is the way Jeff has spent his career.  Giving to others and leading with passion.  His role as the Executive Director for the Mid Michigan region of the Big Brothers Big Sisters has been rewarding and full of making big moves through little steps.  Now a regional agency, the program serves seven rural counties in central northern Michigan.  Founded in 1975 to serve Clare and Gladwin counties, the agency was expanded almost 15 yrs ago by adding Roscommon, Mecosta and Osceola counties.  2018 brought the additions of both Gratiot and Montcalm Counties.

Jeff is a passionate and experienced leader.  Vic Vercheeau helps him trace his journey to reveal several big discoveries in this edition of the Leadership Lowdown!

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Leadership Lowdown | "What Are We Best At"?

Chris Holman welcomes Ruben Williams, MSU Grad project manager, at Homechow - his former company North Star Environmental along with Gabriel "Gabe"  Ankamafio  CEO at Homechow Food Service, Rochester, NY.

Tell us a bit about Homechow?

You're introducing a groundbreaking concept to Michigan entrepreneurs?

Passive Revenue with a Hot Twist, tell us about that?

Strategic Placement for On-the-Go Convenience, enlighten us?

Sounds like Affordable Entry into the Hot Meal Franchise, what else should we know?

More details were shared through a release Homechow Food Service, the leading provider of freshly made hot food meal-pack vending kiosks, proudly announces its strategic initiative to grow and expand its business through a groundbreaking Non-Operational Franchisee Partnership (NFP).

Homechow, headquartered in Rochester, New York, is renowned for its fresh, hot, ready-to-eat out-of-the-box meal pack self-service.

The company's latest venture into the NFP space marks the introduction of the first-of-its-kind passive revenue-generating food business franchise, offering unprecedented opportunities for individuals to participate in the thriving food industry without the burdens of day-to-day operations.

With Homechow managing the patented kiosk, handling daily meal-pack stocking, maintaining the kiosk units, and overseeing marketing and sales activities, franchisees can enjoy the benefits of ownership without the need for direct involvement in business operations. The NFP owners can conveniently cash out their daily sales electronically through the user-friendly Homechow app.

One of the key advantages of this innovative franchising model is the ability for franchisees to own multiple unit kiosks, enhancing daily passive revenue from strategically placed kiosk units. These units are strategically located in high-traffic areas where customers' daily lives intersect, including office lunchrooms, entertainment centers, schools, hospital dining areas, airports, convenience stores, and various other locations frequented by individuals seeking on-the-go meals.

Homechow Food Service is proud to offer this unparalleled non-operational franchising food kiosk business at an attractive entry cost of $25,000. The company has partnered with Rustwood Capital to provide small business loans to potential franchisees eager to seize the opportunity to own their own food franchise without the usual operational challenges.

"With the current low entry cost and easy access to financing through Rustwood Capital, there's never been a better time to venture into the food industry without the additional headaches associated with business ownership," said Gabriel Ankamafio, CEO at Homechow Food Service.

“With such an excitingly new foodservice franchising model, franchisees will take advantage of owning multiple Homechow's kiosks and that's exactly the reason we're getting in early to provide the financing service to accelerate this for franchisee partners. It is deemed to be one of the best passive income generators . We have had enormous success funding small businesses and growing as they grow. We are excited for what's to come as Homechow scales nationwide.” - Sandeep Singh, CEO of
Rustwood Capital

For more information about Homechow Food Service's non-operational franchising opportunities, please visit https://homechow.co/own-a-kiosk or visit the listing on BizBuySell. Forinquiries, contact Homechow via email at customer@homechow.co or call at 747-243-7278.

Learn more at https://homechow.co/.

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Michigan Business Beat | Reuben Williams & Gabe Ankamafio Sharing HomeChow Food Service w/ Michigan!

Chris Holman welcomes back Clifford {Cliff} Hammond Shareholder, Employment & Labor Lawyer, Foster Swift Collins & Smith, Southfield and Lansing Foster Swift, with a half dozen locations across Michigan.
Topic: New Independent Contractor Rule.   

What’s is the new rule about? 

What are the industries and types of employers that may need to really take a close look at this? 

What can happen if you misclassify someone under this rule? 

Foster Swift also shared this recent article on the subject:

Independent Contractor Final Rule Could Have Major Impact on Select Industries

The much-anticipated independent contractor final rule issued earlier this month by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) will become effective March 11, 2024. Several years in the making, the new rule could result in a wholesale reexamination of worker classification practices, especially in industries where independent contractors are extensively utilized.

Construction, transportation/logistics, healthcare, consulting/business/IT services and the gig sector (e.g., Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Grubhub) are among the industries that are most likely to experience a significant impact due to the changed requirements of the updated rule.

The new rule utilizes a test like the ones many courts have used for years to determine whether workers should be classified and treated as independent contractors or employees under U.S. wage laws. The new version of the rule, however, is controversial because of the likelihood that it will result in the DOL recognizing fewer independent contractors and more employees.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and other business groups are expected to challenge the rule in the courts. Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy has said a resolution will be introduced to repeal the rule. If such a resolution were to make it through both the Senate and House, it’s likely that President Biden would veto the measure.

Independent Contractor Final Rule: The Details

The final version of the rule utilizes a review and analysis which assesses the “totality of circumstances” to establish whether a worker is an independent contractor or an employee.

The test analyzes six factors equally without assigning a predetermined weight to any particular or set of factors. The six factors are:

Opportunity for Profit or Loss Depending on Managerial Skill – Whether the worker exercises managerial skill that affects their economic success or failure in performing the work.
Investments by the Worker and Potential Employer – Whether the investments of a worker (capital or entrepreneurial) contribute to and support the maintenance and growth of the business.
Degree of Permanence of the Work Relationship – Whether the nature of the work is steady, sporadic, or project-based with fixed beginning and ending dates.
Nature and Degree of Control – Which party controls hiring, firing, scheduling, pricing, pay rates, supervision, and other economic and performance factors?
Extent that Work Performed is an Integral Part of the Potential Employer’s Business – Whether the work performed is critical, necessary, or central to the potential employer’s principal line of business.
The Worker’s Skill and Initiative – Whether a worker uses their own specialized skills together with business planning to support, grow, or improve the business.
Employers should note that the new rule doesn’t represent new law. Nor does it create any new legal obligations, but rather clarifies the DOL’s interpretation of the existing law.

In addition, the federal rule may not be fully applicable in those states which have their own laws or tests for classifying workers as employees or independent contractors, which include California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and others.

Michigan Business Beat | Cliff Hammond, Foster Swift Preparing for New Independent Contractor Rules!

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Bill Flohr REGIONAL IMPACT OFFICER for Folds of Honor, Canton, MI.

Jeffrey had several questions for Bill in this conversation:

Can you tell us specifically what Folds of Honor does?

Your organization has a special event coming up this Saturday, Please tell us about the Gala?

What are some fun things about the event?

I understand first responders were added to the mission in 2022.

Does the money raised at the Gala stay locally (it does)?

Will it be used for local Michigan families (yes)?

This is the upcoming fourth year for American Dunes GC in Grand Haven, and the course is now taking on-line reservation.
Can you tell us about the Jack Nicklaus-designed course and what makes it so special?

I understand that the scholarship application window for military and first responders families is now open.
How can someone apply for a Folds scholarship or simply make a donation (www.foldsofhonor.org)?

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Michigan Business Beat | Bill Flohr - Folds of Honor - Gala Celebration This Saturday

Vic Verchereau welcomes Ben Leslie, who is the Chief Development Officer for Folds of Honor.

Ben Leslie joined Folds of Honor in 2011 and was the fourth person Lt. Col. Dan Rooney hired.  As Chief Development Officer his responsibilities include securing and serving as a liaison with all Folds’ corporate partners, overseeing Folds’ relationship with Anheuser-Busch, leading corporate impact officers and outreach. He also directs the Folds of Honor Golf Team and corporate grant writing.

Ben graduated from Oklahoma State University where he also received his MBA. Ben’s son plays collegiate basketball and his dad was a Half-Century member of the PGA and was on tour for several years. Ben is an avid golfer and resides in Owasso, Oklahoma near Folds of Honor headquarters.

Vic Verchereau had the pleasure of hearing all about Ben's leadership Journey and you can listen in with this edition of the Leadership Lowdown!

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Leadership Lowdown | Fun and Purpose

Vic Verchereau welcomes Simon Dyson, who is Owner and Insurance Consultant for I Care Insurance.

For some the journey is a means to the end, but for Simon Dyson, it is the journey that has taught him so much.  The people he has come in contact with have changed his life for the better.  Born in the United Kingdom and blessed to have seen much of the world, his home is now here in Michigan and we are grateful he has landed here!  With amazing experiences and much success, he is driven to help people and answer the calling to live his life with purpose and to give back.  Simon has many options for career paths, but has chosen to start a journey to create balance in his life, help others and to keep his son in the center of his world.  We often interview special people on this show, but in this case Simon Dyson shares more than his story, he shares his heart and his calling to leave the world a better place. You'll enjoy this energetic and charismatic leader who will leave you inspired on this edition of the Leadership Lowdown.  Vic Verchereau is asking the questions and leading the cheering section for this extraordinary man!

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Leadership Lowdown | Dream It, Plan It, Do It!

Vic Verchereau welcomes George Franklin, who is a lawyer and former Vice President of Worldwide Government Relations for Kellogg Company.

As a lawyer, lobbyist and former Vice President of Worldwide Government Affairs for Kellogg Company, George has an insider’s perspective on how Washington works and doesn’t. He spent years in the halls of Congress as a major player on behalf of the food industry where he developed the anecdotes and saw first hand the outrageous personalities parodied in his books. A Feeding Frenzy in Washington along with his other three books Raisin Bran and Other Cereal Wars, So You Think You Want to Run for Congress and Incentives mark him as a must read for anyone with a keen eye for politics today. 

Join the fun as Vic Verchereau get the story of George Franklin's journey on this edition of the Leadership Lowdown!

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Leadership Lowdown | George Franklin - Politics, Business & Books

Vic Verchereau welcomes Suzy Merchant, who is the retired Head Coach of the Michigan State University Women's Basketball program.

She is a Mom, Retired Head Coach of the Michigan State Women's Basketball program, USA Women's Basketball Coach, B1G Coach of Year, 2 time B1G Championships, 18 NCAA’s/Sweet 16's and founder of Empower Her Retreat, but most of all she is a real leader and a genuine person who has found success through her Work Ethic, Character and Passion. Coach Merchant has helped thousands of people in her career and is ready to help you with insights and knowledge on leadership and doing the right thing! This is a fast paced Leadership Lowdown and Vic Verchereau is grateful to hold the door as you enter the award winning world of coach, Suzy Merchant!

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Leadership Lowdown | Suzy Merchant - Work Ethic, Character, Passion

Jeffrey Mosher speaks with Catherine Behrenbrinker, President and CEO, of Symplicity Communications, Inc., Grand Rapids, MI, a 2024 Best Small Business Awardee winner for this year's cycle of Michigan Celebrates Small Business. In its twentieth year and holding Gala Celebration May 21st in East Lansing, MI, at the Breslin Center.

In the interview, they cover Catherine's career path, the company's history, the focus of the company in 2024, what winning this award means for the company, additional information, and how to contact them.

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Michigan Celebrates Small Business | Symplicity Communications

Originally uploaded Mar. 15th, reedited, reloaded March 29th.
For Media Business Episode 69:

Tony Conley welcomes Rich Herl, a native of the Buckeye State, has been in radio for more than 20 years and joined WILS as News Director in June 2009.  He came to the Capital City after spending more than 8 years as News Anchor/Reporter for Cumulus Media in Huntsville, Alabama, where he also did high school football play-by-play and other sports broadcasting duties.  Rich's time before then was in Ohio, where he spent time at WWOW Radio in Conneaut before and after his 1999 graduation from Walsh University in North Canton.  No stranger to snow, Rich grew up in Ashtabula (a.k.a. the "snow belt") just outside Cleveland.  Rich resides in Holt with his wife and daughter.

QUESTIONS:

What was the most challenging story you've covered?

What can we in the media do to be better?

How have you managed to stay so far and balanced in your news coverage?

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Thank you to Benjamin Robinson and Motor City Skyline's music

Media Business | Rich Herl How Media Deals with Challenging Stories

Originally uploaded April 2nd, reedited, reloaded April 10th.
For Media Business Episode 70:

Tony Conley welcomes Alan Drimmer, PhD, was named the 12th President of Cleary University on July 1, 2021. Dr. Drimmer has an extensive background in higher education, from the classroom to administration, and is thrilled to bring his expertise to Cleary.  

It’s his goal to advance Cleary’s distinctive mission based on being flexible, affordable, and career-focused for traditional and non-traditional students alike. He is most excited to raise awareness with students and employers for the Cleary Mind™ initiative, which threads critical workplace competencies in the classroom and across the entire student experience. 

In previous roles, Dr. Drimmer served as Provost at National Defense University, Chief Academic Officer and Senior Vice President at the University of Maryland Global Campus and the University of Phoenix, and President at Western International University and American InterContinental University. Over the years, he has been active with institutional accreditors including the Higher Learning Commission, the Southern Association for Colleges and Schools and the Middle States Commission for Higher Education.

Dr. Drimmer has also been a Senior Advisor in the Boston Consulting Group’s education practice, and early in his career served as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company. He has experience in corporate training and workforce development, having led the Learning and Development Roundtable at the Corporate Executive Board, a consortium of Chief Learning Officers at Fortune 500 companies.

With BA, MA and PhD degrees in political science from the University of Chicago, Dr. Drimmer also earned an MBA from the Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania where he was a Gruss Scholar. He was a National Security Fellow at Harvard University’s Center for International Affairs and won a prestigious Derek Bok Undergraduate Teaching Award at Harvard College.

Dr. Drimmer has two adult children – one who is a physicist in Zurich, Switzerland, and another who is a textbook editor in New York City. He is an avid traveler, cyclist, wine enthusiast, and baseball fan. In addition, he speaks French and is pursuing scholarly research on Alexis de Tocqueville’s Democracy in America.

In this conversation Tony and Dr. Drimmer cover several topics highlighted by these:
Please tell us about the growth of Cleary University?

What majors does Cleary focus on?

How can the media be better at covering higher education and Cleary?

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Thank you to Benjamin Robinson and Motor City Skyline's music

Media Business | Dr. Alan Drimmer - How Universities Deal with the Media

100 % Hustle Podcast 6 – Series of Guests

Host: Vicki Hamilton, Senior Executive with International consulting experience. Founder & CEO of Executive Ideation

Topic: Be Where Your Feet Are

Guest: BJ Rycus, Co-Owner Rycus Flooring & Weight Watchers Coach

Guest Bio:

BJ Rycus, VP and Co-owner of Rycus Flooring in Lansing, MI, prioritizes exceptional customer service through a team-focused approach. Together with his Co-owner father Ron, they foster a culture of belonging among employees, who are deeply invested in the success of their stores and community. While profitability matters, they value a caring and trustworthy reputation, earned through dedicated teamwork. BJ, also a Weight Watchers Coach, delights in assisting others in achieving their goals.

Blog Summary:

BJ Rycus discusses his journey of working in his family business, studying, teaching, overcoming hurdles and how he discovered a whole new opportunity while attending a Weight Watcher Session many years ago. Rycus provides excellent advice for those who are juggling priorities and trying to find ways to fulfil professional and sometimes lifelong ambitions.

Contact info:

BJ Rycus, Vice-President, Rycus Flooring
517-887-8720 www.rycusflooring.com

BJ Rycus, Weight Watcher Coach, Studio and Virtual www.weightwatchers.com

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100% Hustle - Episode 6 - Part 3 - BJ Rycus: Be Where Your Feet Are

100 % Hustle Podcast 6 – Series of Guests

Host: Vicki Hamilton, Senior Executive with International consulting experience. Founder & CEO of Executive Ideation

Topic: Expanding Your Marketing Capabilities without Adding Headcount

Guest: Heather Richard, Managing Partner & CMO at PROJECT 16

Guest Bio:

Bringing over 24 years of expertise as a marketing communications, digital, and ecommerce senior executive, Heather Richard specializes in growing complex and multilayered online and integrated marketing programs for globally recognized brands. With a proven track record of devising and executing successful marketing strategies, she excels in driving customer acquisition and online/offline traffic while managing budgets ranging from small to multimillion-dollar initiatives.

As the Managing Partner & CMO at PROJECT 16, Heather leads a dynamic marketing and digital consultancy, delivering comprehensive services in branding, marketing communications, ecommerce, and digital solutions across diverse industries. The strategic approach, coupled with a curated network of professionals, enables clients to achieve their goals without an in-house team, driving innovation, growth, and transformative results.

Blog Summary:

Heather Richard, Managing Partner & CMO at PROJECT 16, explores the advantages of outsourcing marketing functions and introduces her company's services. As an emerging entrepreneur and business owner, Heather shares insights into her journey. PROJECT 16 is a versatile marketing and digital consultancy, offering branding, marketing communications, ecommerce, and digital solutions. Contact them today to boost your marketing efforts!

Contact info:

www.projectonesix.com 
LinkedIn – Project 16 
LinkedIn - Heather Richard

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100% Hustle  Ep. 6 - Pt. 4 Heather Richard: Expanding Marketing Capabilities w/o Adding Headcount

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Ryan Fewins-Bliss executive director MCAN - Michigan College Access Network. 

Topic: FAFSA Week of Action - April 15-19 

In their discussion they cover several points including:
Objective: MCAN supports school counselors and college advisers as their students and families navigate
 shortened FAFSA timelines. MCAN actions: 
● Compiled an Evolving FAFSA spreadsheet that tracks institutional changes in enrollment deadlines 
● Offered Certified FAFSA Specialist Training for select school counselors, educators, and others who 
work directly with students ○ This training is offered at no cost to the participants ○ All training sessions 
are recorded and available to the public ○ A list of Certified FAFSA Specialists is available to support people 
who work with students. This is not for students and families. Contact Jeneen Hatoum for details 
● Hosting a variety of webinars to keep school counselors and other professionals up to date on FAFSA changes 
and offer strategies for dealing with this year’s shortened timeline ○ School counselors and educators can earn 
State Continuing Education Clock Hours for attending live webinars or by watching recorded webinars and completing a quiz 
○ Webinars are offered at no cost to the participants 
● Maintaining an up-to-date resource hub for schools participating in our College Bound Michigan initiative 
○ While designed to be used in the context of CBMI, all resources are public and available to anyone 
● Using our network of college advisers serving in AdviseMI and MSU College Advising Corps to disseminate 
accurate information in schools across the state 
● Worked with a coalition of higher education institutions to create a student/parent letter encouraging students
 to continue completing college-going steps despite unexpected delays 
● Using social media to celebrate high schools who are making good progress in FAFSA submissions 
● Using our email and social media channels to share valuable updates on the FAFSA process with our network 
of school counselors, community-based organizations, higher education admissions staff, and other 
college access professionals 
● Maintaining a Google Group for school counselors to discuss FAFSA hurdles and work collaboratively
 to find solutions 
● Advocating with both state and congressional legislators to increase funding for FAFSA completion efforts
 and improve accountability around this year’s delayed and rocky FAFSA launch 
● Offering guidance on the effective use of the Department of Education’s FAFSA Challenge Grants 
● Created a comprehensive FAFSA Action Plan to help schools and organizations strategically plan their 
FAFSA completion efforts.

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Michigan Business Beat | Ryan Fewins-Bliss, MCAN - FAFSA Week of Action - April 15-19

Vic Verchereau welcomes Monica Schafer, who is the Owner of Schafer Raspberries and Ingham County Commissioner.

Lessons learned as a parent showing the kids the value of work while serving the community are the results of a small dream that has helped one of her children make it to Harvard.  Monica Schafer joins Vic Verchereau on this edition of the Leadership Lowdown. Monica and her husband Jim, a physician for over 30 years, are the proud owners of Schafer Raspberries. This family-friendly U-Pick farm is located in Williamston, MI.  Growing and developing Schafer Raspberries has been a labor of love for the past seven years. Through this business venture, Monica and Jim have taught their children the value of working hard to accomplish a goal together. The small business is a great example of Agritourism and it has benefited the local economy as well.

Monica shares her story and takes us picking raspberries and leadership tips on this show!  Listen in and join the fun!

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Leadership Lowdown | Monica Schafer - From the Raspberry Patch to Harvard

Originally Uploaded April 12th, reloaded April 29th.
For Media Business Episode 71:
Tony Conley has a three-part conversation welcoming back Nicole Noll-Williams, the President and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Authority.

In their conversation Tony covered several topics with Nicole:
-Capital Region Airport and Mason Jewett Field services?

-Get your take on some airlines starting to limit carry-on items?

-Get your view on airport business throughout Michigan?

-Are the programs at LCC & WMU helping with the shortage of airline pilots, mechanics & air-traffic controllers?

-What is new and upcoming in 2024 and 2025 for the airports?

-What is something most people do not know about our local airports?

-Are Southern & Northern border challenges affecting airport security?

Nicole Noll-Williams is the President and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Authority, operating the Capital Region International Airport and Mason Jewett Field.  Previously, she spent almost 3 years as the Mid-Michigan Regional Director for U.S. Senator Gary C. Peters, and over 25 years in the aviation industry with experience in air service development, airline management and contract management.  Prior to joining the Airport Authority, Nicole was the Director of Sales for Spartan Travel, a Michigan travel management company.  She began her career in aviation with United Airlines/United Express as a Station Manager, managing daily operations at the airport, and was the Regional Sales Manager, overseeing sales throughout Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.  

Nicole shares her story from the early beginnings to the high flying career in Mid Michigan. Nicole has a great story and powerful experience!

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Media Business | Nicole Noll-Williams, How Media Deals with Regional Airports

Vic Verchereau welcomes Luanne Wills-Merrell, who is a Manager in the Federal Aviation Administration.

A native of Lansing, Chicago resident Luanne Wills-Merrell, currently is a Manager (ASI to the Aviation world!) in the Federal Aviation Administration.  She has accumulated a multitude of achievements over her remarkable career.  Most recently, Wills-Merrell was inducted into the Illinois Aviation Hall of Fame as the first Black female ASI in American history. She said she spent every day just doing her best and cannot believe where the journey has taken her. In addition, She was named by the Theta Rho Beta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s “Woman of the Year”,

Vic Verchereau had a chance to sit down to hear about her incredible life. From Lansing Community College to the Aviation Hall of Fame, this energetic leader takes us on a fun ride through her career.  A MBN show first, this leader has her own day named after her in Lansing by Mayor Andy Shore.

Buckle up, we are cleared for take off on this history making flight of the Leadership Lowdown!

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Leadership Lowdown | Luanne Wills-Merrell - Cleared For Takeoff, Enjoy Your Leadership Journey

Originally loaded April 9th, re-edited April 22nd.
Chris Holman welcomes back Dillon Li, General Manager, AP Lazer, Mason MI.

Welcome back Dillon, remind the Michigan business community about AP Lazer?

Please share that company history from your Dad and on through today?

What are your core services and products now in 2024?

Hobbyists and businesses can leverage you machines, do you have any examples to share?

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Michigan Business Beat | Dillon Li, AP Lazer, A Mason, MI, Hidden Gem's History, Services & Products

Originally uploaded April 16th, re-edited April 24th.
Chris Holman welcomes back Tyler Theile, Vice President and Director of Economic Analysis and Public Policy at Anderson Economic Group, East Lansing, MI.

Welcome back Tyler, remind the Michigan business community about AEG?

Your latest analysis says Economic impact of 2024 Detroit NFL draft to exceed $160 million, tell us more?

What were the methodologies?

A Free three-day event doesn't generate ticket revenue, but leaves more money to still be spent around Detroit?

Remind the business community of the recent economic impact of a pair of home games in the NFL playoffs for the Lions?

Anything else we should know short or long term for Detroit?

Economic impact of 2024 Detroit NFL draft to exceed $160 million

EAST LANSING, Mich. – The net economic impact of the 2024 NFL draft in downtown Detroit is expected to exceed $160 million, according to new analysis from economic consulting firm Anderson Economic Group, LLC.

AEG found that the draft will have a direct economic impact of $97,513,500 on Detroit, with an estimated $35,113,500 in total expenditures of attendees, after accounting for substitution. 

To complete this analysis, AEG followed a methodology that considers both direct investment and spending that will generate economic impact, and indirect economic activity. They also consider the substitution effects that occur, such as spending that leaves the area, and potential lost spending from individuals who would normally spend time downtown but might avoid the events.

The total includes both expenditures inside and outside of the event in Detroit, including hotel stays, spending at restaurants and bars, and merchandise purchases. The NFL draft is a three-day, free event in downtown Detroit, making it more accessible to fans, however the free nature of the even removes the impact of ticket revenue. 

“When we approach economic impact analysis, we carefully consider each dollar that is going to be invested or spent due to the event. We also carefully consider the power of that dollar in the region and industry of study as it is re-spent,” said Tyler Theile, vice president and director of economic analysis and public policy at AEG. “Hosting the NFL draft is an exciting win for Detroit and presents invaluable opportunities for the city to showcase its culture on a national stage, fostering long-term tourism and investment prospects.”

###

About Anderson Economic Group
Founded in 1996, Anderson Economic Group works with public, private, and non-profit organizations, specializing in economic impact, business valuation, expert testimony, and public policy. Anderson Economic Group has assisted governments, universities, corporations, and businesses across the U.S. and abroad. All of the firm’s work is grounded in the core values of professionalism, integrity, and expertise. Anderson Economic Group has offices in East Lansing, Michigan and Chicago, Illinois. For more information or to speak with one of our experts, visit andersoneconomicgroup.com. 

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Michigan Business Beat | Tyler Theile, Anderson Economic Group: Impact of 2024 Detroit NFL Draft

Originally uploaded April 3rd, re-edited April 26th.
Chris Holman welcomes back Scott Keith, CVE, President & CEO at the Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA), Lansing, MI.

23 years with LEPFA and 14 years in leadership, what are some accomplishments you would care to highlight?

In mid-March this topic was announced through a news release:
LEPFA Board of Commissioners Announce President & CEO-Scott Keith, CVE Resignation 

Lansing, MI - It is with sadness and gratitude that the Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA) Board of Commissioners announces Scott Keith’s departure as President & CEO with the Authority effective April 12, 2024. Scott started with LEPFA in July 2001 as the Operations Manager, promoted to Vice President of Operations in April of 2005, and became the President & CEO in March 2010. Scott played a critical role in the development, changes, and success of the organization, and while we will miss his leadership and steadfastness, we wish him all the best in his new endeavor as General Manager of the North Charleston Coliseum, North Charleston Performing Arts Center, and Charleston Area Convention Center with ASM Global. We thank Scott for his nearly 23 years with the organization and over 14 years as President & CEO (longest tenured President in LEPFA’s history) in service to the Lansing community. Among his many accomplishments, including: 

Increasing revenues at LEPFA managed properties by nearly 35% since 2010
Successfully transitioning Silver Bells in the City event operations to LEPFA
Successfully transitioning Groesbeck Golf Course to management by LEPFA thus increasing golf play and revenues by 40% and eliminating the city contribution by nearly $400,000
Managing capital projects of LEPFA managed properties of nearly $60M since 2005.
Successfully negotiating and completing a strategic agreement with Choose Lansing for increased sales efforts and funding for the Lansing Center and the region/city.
Negotiating and completing a renewed 10-year operating agreement with the City of Lansing and LEPFA.
Helping to lead the charge in increasing the economic impact of LEPFA managed facilities/events by over $10M annually, while increasing attributable room nights by nearly 30%.
Nearly 20 years as co-producer of the Common Ground Music Festival.
Successfully completed his Certified Venue Executive designation in 2022.
Launched the MargaritaFest, Greens & Grains, and Grand Concert Series events.

Over the next few weeks, the Board of Commissioners will begin the transition and succession plan for the direction of leadership at LEPFA.  “During this transition period, it’s the priority of the LEPFA Board of Commissioners to find the best individual to lead, while still maintaining a stable and effective team to continue the task of fulfilling the mission of the Authority. We will share additional information as we continue along this successful path,” said Chairmen Kenric Hall, LEPFA Board of Commissioners. 

As a graduate of Liberty University, Georgia Southern University, and programs in the management of public assembly facilities through the University of Michigan and IAVM, Scott’s long career began in the private management of various facilities around the U.S. and landed him in Lansing as a great place to further develop his career and raise a family. “It has been my privilege to serve as the President & CEO of LEPFA since 2010 and I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with a team of talented and dedicated teammates and colleagues. I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments we have all achieved together during my tenure here, “said Scott. “I am confident that the Authority will continue to thrive under the capable leadership of my successor.” 

###

Michigan Business Beat | Scott Keith, LEPFA - 2 Decades Highlights and Changes for Scott and LEPFA!

Originally uploaded March 28th, re-edited April 30th.
Chris Holman welcomes Erica & Michael Lynn Jr.  Co-Founders The Village Lansing, Lansing, MI.

Welcome, Erica, Michael, tell us about The Village Lansing?

What is the background to your story involving founding The Village Lansing and other efforts you do around the area?

You spoke to the Lansing Rotary recently about "The Empowerment Network" and "Lansing 360" what are these?

How can the business community get connected or involved in any of this?

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Michigan Business Beat | Mike & Erica Lynn, The Village Lansing The Empowerment Network, Lansing 360

Originally Uploaded April 26th, reloaded May 2nd.
For Media Business Episode 71:
Tony Conley has a three-part conversation welcoming back Bill Mory who after spending 13 years as the Head Professional and Director of Golf at Walnut Hills Country Club in East Lansing, MI his wife Karen and he purchased Meridian Sun Golf Club in Haslett, MI (formerly Pine Lake Golf Course) in February 2000.

For this Spring 2024 conversation the pair cover several topics including: 
-Golf business in Michigan

-LIV & PGA

-The 2024 Professional Golf season

-Media coverage of golf

-Augusta National and its playing season

-Advise for beginning golfers over 50. 

Bill grew up at a course much like Meridian Sun and taught himself to play with tips from my father and an old time golf pro by the name of Joe Nadolny. Shagging golf balls and playing as many as 54 holes in a day at High Cliff Golf Course, He learned that golf is about getting the ball into the hole in the fewest number of strokes. It wasn't about having the perfect swing, but rather about having fun and hitting as many good shots as I could muster.

During 27 years as a PGA Professional, I have taught both male and female golfers at every skill level from beginner to professional and every age from 2 to 96. My teaching and coaching philosophy and methods are simple and have been developed through years of study and experience in coaching my various students as well as from playing competitively throughout my life in high school, college and professional events such as the United States Senior Open, the PGA Tour's Buick Open and the Ben Hogan Tour (currently the Web.com tour).

I enjoy sharing my knowledge of the game and hope that it will not only help you to improve your game, but also enjoy it to the fullest. Golf is a game that is played and enjoyed for some many reasons including the beauty of the course landscape, recreation and socializing with friends and family, exercise, travel, competition with self and others and the challenge of hitting that perfect shot or improving on your best score. Yes, it has it's frustrating moments, but we should be thankul for those for without them, we could not enjoy the victories regardless of how big or small.

Many of my youth students have gone on to successful high school, college and professional careers, but what I find most rewarding is to see my students playing more golf and enjoying it at a higher level with their family and friends. My passion for junior golf and coaching kids is demostrated in our terrific youth golf program at Meridian Sun Golf Club and in having served as both the Girls and Boys Golf Coach at Haslett High School for nine years.

The game of golf has been a wonderful blessing my life and if the information I share can encourage you and others to play more golf and have more fun experiencing the many wonderful aspects of this game, I am humbled.

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Thank you to Benjamin Robinson and Motor City Skyline's music

Media Business | Bill Mory, How Media Deals with the Golf Business in Michigan

Vic Verchereau welcomes Carmen Beemer, who is the National Cherry Queen.

The very first "Cherry" festival was held in May 1925, and was known at that time as the Blessing of the Blossoms. The first cherry queen was Gertrude Brown but the current National Cherry Queen is Carmen Beemer and she joins Vic Verchereau for a guided tour of one of Michigan's most famous festivals!

Carmen is the 22-year-old daughter of Gary Godley and Shannon Beemer of Wayland. She is a 2020 graduate of Thornapple Kellogg High School and is in her senior year at Michigan State University where she majors in Horticulture Science with a minor in Crop and Soil Sciences.  Driven by her adoration for the agricultural industry, Carmen aspires to continue to advocate for the cherry and all other agricultural industries indefinitely.  Carmen would like to thank her hometown community for helping raise her over the years and we want to thank her for helping us mark our calendars for the 2024 National Cherry Festival!

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Michigan Corners | Carmen Beemer - Michigan's Royal Event!

Originally uploaded April 11th, re-edited May 3rd.
Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Mike Maddox, Professional EOS Implementer, Freedom Builders, Lansing, MI.

Welcome Mike, tell us about Freedom Builders and your EOS journey, it started before the company and the summer of 2022 I suspect?

You do a podcast 'Getting A Grip' tell us about that and some of your guests so far?

Visionary / Integrator or both, how do you see yourself?

As you care to share what's that 10-year vision and what are the core values and core focus?

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Michigan Business Beat | Michael Maddox, Professional EOS Implementer, Freedom Builders

For Media Business Episode 72:
Tony Conley has a three-part conversation welcoming back John J. Dewane who was appointed as Ingham County Prosecutor by the Judges of the 30th Circuit Court, and is now running for election. The appointment became effective from Dec. 31, 2022, through 2024.

For this conversation they cover several questions including:
1-how goes the campaign?
2– best part about campaigning
3-most challenging thing about campaigning?
4-What have you learned that was most surprising while talking to constituents?
5-We are hearing so much about anti-somatic crimes and behavior in big cities. What’s your take on that? And do you see any of that in Ingham county?
6-How are the crime rates in Ingham county? Up or down?
7-how about violent crime in our county?
8-what are the best things that we can do to prevent crime especially amongst young people?
9-how do you work with this challenge when so many parents are not monitoring their kids?
10-What’s your thought on crime in big cities?
11-as a candidate, running as a Democrat, why do you think you have so much support from Republicans and independents?


Mr. Dewane has served in the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office since 2001, including the past twelve years as Deputy Chief Assistant. In that role, he has conducted over 80 felony trials, including numerous homicide cases. He has also led the office’s screening division and worked as a liaison to law enforcement agencies in their investigations of serious, violent, and gun-related crimes.

Prior to serving as a prosecutor, John Dewane was an attorney in private practice in St. Joseph, Michigan, where he represented criminal defendants as well as local governments prosecuting individuals for traffic and ordinance violations. Upon graduating from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1988, Mr. Dewane represented indigent clients in various legal areas while employed at the Berrien County Legal Services Bureau.

“It is an honor to be appointed as Ingham County Prosecutor by the Judges of the 30th Circuit Court. As a prosecutor, I’m excited to continue serving Ingham County in this new role. I look forward to working with law enforcement, the judiciary, community leaders, and the citizens of Ingham County to increase public safety by pursuing appropriate criminal charges of appropriate severity.
We must work together to address violent crimes, working with police in Lansing and across the county. Police and prosecutors are on the front lines of addressing the increase in gun violence in our county, and we must improve this crucial partnership as we investigate and prosecute violent crimes – such as homicides and gun crimes.

As a career prosecutor, I understand that leading this department is a new challenge. It’s one that I am excited and ready to pursue, and I’m asking for our community’s support as we work together to seek justice for the victims my office serves.

Most importantly, I look forward to advocating for victims of crimes, ensuring that their voices are heard as we seek justice within the bounds of the law.”

John J. Dewane
Ingham County Prosecutor

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Thank you to Benjamin Robinson and Motor City Skyline's music

Media Business | Ingham County Prosecutor John J. Dewane - How Media Deals with Legal Issues II

A 6 segment conversation between Cheryl Ronk, CAE and Sue Radwan, CAE. about "Leading an Effective Board"
Working with a Board requires a set of unique perspectives.  The Board is one of the greatest assets for an association executive.  In this 36 minute podcast, learn about how the chief staff executive can maximize the Board, why Boards are important, the roles of the Board, and staff and executives.  Cheryl and Sue also discuss what is committee work versus board work, what the role of the executive is with the Board and rules of thumb regarding the Board are discussed. This is a great orientation for Board thoughts.

Association IMPACT | Leading An Effective Board Part 1

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