LiveTh3Life (TACTICAL BOOTLEG)

LA CANDELA VIVA (TACTICAL BOOTLEG)

Vic Verchereau welcomes Sheri Jones, who is a Retired News Reporter and Anchor at WLNS TV 6.

Sheri Jones recently retired after almost 37 years of bringing all of us the news on WLNS TV 6 in Lansing.  Jones’s contributions to broadcasting have earned her a well-deserved place in the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame, solidifying her status as a respected journalist.

Sheri is respected and beloved by the Mid-Michigan community for her warm, steady, and compassionate presence.  Her dedication to journalism is further evident through her multiple accolades and memberships in prestigious organizations.  Join Leadership Lowdown host Vic Verchereau as he takes a journey down memory lane with a local TV legend and enjoy the lessons learned from a life in the news spotlight!

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Leadership Lowdown | Sheri Jones - The News is Only Part of The Story...a Life of Service

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Patrick Patterson, Executive Director · Mid-Michigan Recovery Services Inc. (MMRS), Lansing, MI, to the MBN studio at the Capital Region International Airport.

He had several questions for Patrick in this conversation:

Welcome Patrick, Megan Doherty, President, FD Hayes, connected us, first tell us a bit about MMRS? 

She indicated that you have an event coming up, tell us about that?

Is this a first time, one-off, or ongoing event?

Who does it benefit and why should the business community be aware?

Patrick also wanted to share more information about the Mid-Michigan Recovery Services offerings and how they relate to the business community.

Alcohol and Drug Use and Employment

Employment Costs

 Alcohol and drug disorders (ADD) are a leading factor keeping people out of the workforce.

 But most work

Among the 46 million American adults with ADD, most of them — 30.1 million — remain on the job. (Source: CDC data from 2022) l This contributes to high costs for employers, calculated at an average of $8,817 annually for every employee with an untreated ADD. (National Safety Council)

The tangible costs are related to absenteeism, “presenteeism,” health care, workplace accidents and turnover — but don’t consider additional costs, such as employee morale.

Great site for the issue the NSC

Individual employers can calculate their costs: Search for “NSC Substance Use Calculator.”

Employment has been found to be a motivator for entering and adhering to treatment. (Source: 2020 report commissioned by DOL)

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Michigan Business Beat | Patrick Patterson, MMRS, Services and Upcoming Talent Show Fund Raiser!

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI.

This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference.

In this video Chris Holman welcomes Carrie Rosingana, CEO at Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, serving Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties

They discuss the services, and challenges facing his Michigan Works! chapter, along with what he's experiencing with the Michigan Works! Annual Conference.

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Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo

The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan’s most pressing talent and employment challenges.

The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association’s annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners.

On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies,  (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration.

The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan’s workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting.

Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions.

By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Michigan Business Beat on the Road | Carrie Rosingana, CAMW! - Key Takeaways from MW!A Conference!

Vic Verchereau welcomes Justin Sheehan, who is the Legal Director and General Counsel at Michigan Community Resources.

Justin Sheehan is a Lansing born and bred attorney with a fierce pride for the diverse and resilient Capital City he calls home. A twice over graduate of Michigan State University, in social work and law respectively. As the Legal Director and General Counsel for Michigan Community Resources, Sheehan's organization offers support to nonprofit and grassroots organizations with capacity building services, tailored cohort experiences, and legal guidance. 

His involvement in the area is extensive and includes the Chairman of the Lansing Empowerment Network, Vice-Chairman of The Ourspace Foundation, Board Member of the Lansing Growth Fund, Board Member of The Empowerment Institute for Michigan Foundation, Board Member of the Malcolm X Community Commission, member of the Lansing School District's Multicultural Education Taskforce, and member of the Senior Advisory Team for Lansing Community College's Office of Empowerment. Having helped lead the team for the Lansing Promise, he is someone who cares and is making a difference in the Mid-Michigan area.  

Dial up this edition of the Leadership Lowdown! Host Vic Verchereau gets the scoop on all of the good work being done right here on the Michigan Business Network!

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Leadership Lowdown | Justin Sheehan - Slow Down, No One Can Walk With You When You Are Running Alone

Originally uploaded October 16th, reloaded October 21st.
Jeffrey Mosher welcomed back Jay LaNew, Apprenticeship/Business Services Officer
Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, MI but serving Ingham Eaton and Clinton Counties.

In their conversation they covered: 
1. What is Race to Talent, and why is CAMW! putting it on?
2. What are attendees going to see and learn?
3. Why should employers, especially those outside the construction and manufacturing sectors, consider Registered Apprenticeships?
4. Any final thoughts? Details about the event?

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CAMW! prepares to host apprenticeship event

Employers will learn processes, benefits for multiple industries

LANSING, Mich. — Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!), in partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and Lansing Community College, will host an event in the coming weeks showcasing the advantages of Registered Apprenticeships. The event, called Race to Talent, will take place from 9:30-11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at LCC’s West Campus, located at 5708 Cornerstone Drive in Lansing. 

More than 50 employers have signed up to attend the event, which will feature presentations from employers and apprentices about their own successes, and a panel discussion about the process of establishing a Registered Apprenticeship and how it can benefit businesses, even those outside “traditional” apprenticeship fields.

“With the federal government putting a greater emphasis on apprenticeships, and our own work in trying to bolster our local talent pipeline, now is the perfect time for employers to learn about the win-win of apprenticeships,” CAMW! CEO Carrie Rosingana said. 

WHAT: Race to Talent

WHERE: LCC West Campus, Room M119-121

5708 Cornerstone Drive

Lansing, MI 48917

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 9:30-11 a.m.

Employers who still want to register can do so at https://events.resultsathand.com/mwa/3499/registration/1527-Registration-Form. 
###

ABOUT CAMW!
Capital Area Michigan Works!, a proud partner of the American Job Center network, connects with businesses to develop recruiting and retention strategies, and strengthens the local workforce by enhancing education and career opportunities for job seekers. For more information, call (517) 492-5500 or go to www.camw.org.

Michigan Business Beat | Jay LaNew, CAMW! - October 22nd - Apprenticeships - Race To Talent Event

LAFCU Heritage Fest took place Friday, Sept. 26 at LAFCU’s West Lansing branch. This free community celebration featured live cultural performances, music, food, and family activities — including dance groups, a funk/R&B band, food trucks, giveaways, and more. Guests were also encouraged to wear traditional attire to celebrate their heritage.

MBN stopped by over the Noon hour to capture the performances, family fun, and vibrant community spirit.

LAFCU Heritage Fest to be held Friday, Sept. 26 in West Lansing

WHAT: LAFCU Heritage Fest, a free community event featuring culture, food, music and family fun. The event featured live performances by Worship Without Words dance group, Fantasia Ballet Folklorico, and funk/R&B band The Love Effect. Attendees also enjoyed Jeff the Magician, Stilt Dance Project, bounce houses, an interactive Money Machine, food trucks, giveaways, and more. Guests were welcome to wear traditional attire that celebrates their heritage.

Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, Chief Marketing Officer, and Chief Diversity Officer, LAFCU, Lansing, MI, shares the stage with some board members who discuss their volunteer spirit and celebration of the day's festival. Then there are about 12 minutes of sights and sounds from during the festival, including a performance using "Black Is Everything" Ta'Rhonda Jones' Audio. {This will be removed if needed}.

WHO: Community members of all ages attended. The event was free and open to the public.

WHERE: LAFCU West Lansing Branch | 106 N. Marketplace Blvd., Lansing, MI 48917

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 26

WHY: LAFCU Heritage Fest is a living expression of the credit union’s long-standing commitment to community engagement, celebrating the people, traditions, and cultural well-being that make the Greater Lansing region unique.

About LAFCU: Founded in 1936, LAFCU (pronounced laugh-cue) is a not-for-profit, member-owned credit union open to all who live, work, worship or attend school in Michigan, and to Michigan businesses. LAFCU serves more than 74,000 members and holds over $1 billion in assets. With a particular focus on serving people of modest means, LAFCU is committed to enhancing its members' financial well-being and creating long-lasting positive change across generations. Awarded the prestigious Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award, LAFCU is known for its people-helping-people mission, which has led to award-winning financial literacy programs for all ages. A three-time honoree as a national ‘Best Credit Union to Work For’ and recognized globally for its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, LAFCU stands out for its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. Learn more at www.lafcu.com.

# # #

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MBN On the Road | LAFCU Heritage Fest 2025 - Free Community Event Sharing Culture Music and More!

Duckin Rec (feat. JWood)

Vic Verchereau welcomes Zac Clark, who is General Manager at Lansing Lugnuts.

Games have been going in Lansing since they broke ground for the Capital Building in 1872, but 30 years ago, a new game was brought to downtown Lansing... minor league baseball!  Business deals and family memories have been made ever since!  The Lansing Lugnuts franchise is among the nation's most successful, and 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of baseball on Michigan Avenue.

After joining the Lugnuts as Assistant General Manager, Dansville Michigan native, Zac Clark, moved up to General Manager in January 2023.  He earned his bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University and his master’s degree from East Tennessee State University before entering the baseball world as an intern with the Martinsville Mustangs.  As the Lansing Lugnuts General Manager his duties go well beyond baseball with his role in helping people enjoy the ballpark in many creative ways.

The 2026 season planning is well under way, and there is a lot to do and enjoy before the first pitch!  Come on down to the corner and listen in to Host Vic Verchereau and Zac Clark as they bring in some warmer weather and opportunities to enjoy this Central Michigan gem!  This is Michigan Corners... C'mon down!

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Michigan Corners | Zac Clark - How Long Until the First Pitch?

Mobile Sto

Recording Date: February 28th, 2026

Tony Conley interviews Kelly Smith, Instructor at Michigan Athletic Club in East Lansing.

https://www.amazon.com/Willow-Creek-Pickleball-Mystery/dp/B0G9BJ23FS

The sport and popularity of pickleball is exploding around the globe and especially right here in Michigan.

On Pickleball Michigan and Beyond, we’ll talk with amateur players who play for fun, exercise and competition, the pros who play on the professional circuit for money, pickleball facility owners, the tournament promoters, pickleball equipment and clothing leaders, and most importantly the communities that encompass pickleball.

Thank you for listening to Pickleball Michigan and Beyond!

Pickleball Michigan and Beyond intro and outro music by Motor City Skyline.

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Kelly Smith - Instructor at Michigan Athletic Club in East Lansing

Grab A Map

Chris Holman welcomes back Becky Burtka, VP of Member Engagement, Michigan Chamber, Lansing, MI.

Welcome back Becky, remind us about the Michigan Chamber, and then tell us about National Civics Bee?

Let's dig in on the purpose of National Civics Bee and the reason the state chamber got involved?

How successful has Michigan been with the program?

What does 2026 look like?

What impact have you seen in the students that competed in 2024 and 2025?

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Michigan Business Beat | Becky Burtka, Michigan Chamber - Civics Bee Impact & Future Vision

Chris Holman welcomes back Chris Miller, SIOR - Senior Vice President, Industrial/Investment Advisor, Martin Commercial Properties, Lansing, MI. — Industrial report.

The industrial market, what are your latest numbers showing?

What’s driving this demand across the Greater Lansing region?

How is the market responding in terms of new development or speculative builds?

Are there How are large-scale investments still happening like we talked about the middle of last year?

What role are logistics, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing playing in the industrial growth story right now?

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The highly anticipated “Market Insights” report from Martin Commercial Properties provides an in-depth analysis of the region’s retail, industrial, and office real estate sectors.

EAST LANSING, Mich. – Martin Commercial Properties has released its 2025 H1 Market Insights Report for the Greater Lansing Area, offering an in-depth analysis of commercial real estate conditions across the industrial, office, and retail sectors. The report points to increasing market stability and positive momentum, even as many industries continue to navigate broader economic uncertainty. 

MBN: MCP Van Martin“While the economic landscape remains mixed, commercial real estate in Greater Lansing is demonstrating resilience and steady forward progress,” said Van W. Martin, CCIM, SIOR, CRE, President and CEO of Martin Commercial Properties (left). “Across all three sectors, we’re seeing fundamentals that suggest the market is adjusting thoughtfully rather than pulling back.”

According to the report, the industrial sector continues to be supported by historically high rental rates, limited availability of modern facilities, and sustained investment tied to manufacturing, logistics, and energy-related users. Demand for well-located, functional industrial space remains strong, underscoring the region’s competitiveness and long-term growth potential. The office market is showing early signs of stabilization as obsolete inventory is removed, sublease space declines, and tenants increasingly prioritize high-quality, well-located buildings. While challenges remain, particularly in older properties, leasing activity and owner-occupier interest are helping rebalance the market. Retail performance remains strongest in established corridors, where consistent leasing activity, redevelopment of formerly vacant spaces, and targeted new construction continue to reinforce neighborhood and necessity-based retail demand. Prime locations are outperforming the broader market, reflecting disciplined expansion by retailers and continued consumer engagement.

MBN: MCP GL“Greater Lansing’s commercial real estate market is evolving in a measured and responsible way,” Martin added. “The data shows continued confidence in quality assets, strategic reinvestment, and a foundation that supports long-term economic health across the region.”

Martin Commercial Properties has produced comprehensive Greater Lansing Area market insights since 1988, providing trusted data on office, retail, and industrial trends, major transactions, and market outlooks. 

About Martin Commercial Properties:
Martin Commercial Properties is one of Michigan’s leading independent commercial real estate firms, with a legacy spanning over 60 years. Renowned for its unparalleled expertise, influence, and client-centric approach, Martin Commercial Properties offers a complete range of commercial real estate services, including brokerage, property
development, property management, investment services, and corporate solutions. Full reports can be found at
https://martincommercial.com/marketinsights/
####

Michigan Business Beat | Chris Miller, Martin Commercial, Greater Lansing Industrial Market

Chris Holman welcomes back Faces of Manufacturing show Co-Host Cindy Kangas, Executive Director, CAMC, Capital Area Manufacturing Council, Lansing, MI.

What's happening in Manufacturing and CAMC at this time?

Tell me about the event you have coming up?

Why is it important to celebrate Rosies?

What activities and speakers will be attending?

How does this support women in STEM careers and young ladies in the talent pipeline?

Where can people find more information?

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(LANSING, MI) — Michigan’s manufacturing and agricultural legacies will unite on Friday, March 13, 2026, as the 4th Annual Michigan Rosie the Riveter Day arrives at the Capital Region International Airport. This year’s celebration marks a major expansion for the event, bridging the worlds of aerospace and industry with a first-of-its-kind tribute to Michigan’s wartime “Rosies on the Farm.” The gathering honors the women who redefined the American workforce during WWII and the trailblazers leading Michigan’s industries today.

Emceed by Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame inductee Sheri Jones, the afternoon is a vibrant, multi-generational celebration featuring a breathtaking vintage aircraft flyover and a veteran pin ceremony led by Retired Col. Frank J. Walker. A robust lineup of keynote speakers will address the crowd, including Lansing Mayor Andy Schor and leaders from UAW Region 1, Jiffy Mix, and the Michigan Department of Corrections Vocational Village. The program will also feature the presentation of ten Rosie Awards, honoring outstanding women in industry from across the state, Rosie families in memoriam, and educators dedicated to empowering their students with the Rosie spirit of grit and innovation.

“Michigan Rosie Day honors the women whose skill and resolve kept Michigan moving during wartime,” said Cindy Kangas, Executive Director of the Capital Area Manufacturing Council. “We hope their example inspires today’s women in STEM and the skilled trades to pursue bold careers, and that these stories continue to shape how we teach, recruit, and remember.”

“Seeing my grandmother’s story honored alongside these incredible women is more than just a history lesson—it’s a homecoming. For our family, this day is about ensuring that her courage and hard work aren’t just remembered, but are used to fuel the dreams of her great-grandchildren,” said Madelyn Taylor, daughter of Clara.

“The women who built planes in the 1940s share the same spirit as the people in our shops and on our farms today. By honoring the ‘Rosies on the Farm’ alongside our manufacturing pioneers, we’re showing the next generation that there is a place for everyone in Michigan’s workforce,” said Tanya Blehm, event coordinator.

Experience Hands-On History 

The airport event space will serve as a hands-on history hub where Michigan’s legacy comes to life. Featuring interactive exhibits from Impression 5 Science Center, local robotics teams, and Jiffy Mix, the event is designed for kids and grandparents to explore side-by-side. In a tribute to the legendary “Doughnut Dollies,” the American Red Cross of Michigan will be in attendance dressed in historic character to share the story of the brave women who served on the front lines during WWII. From the legendary Tuskegee Airmen and the REOlds Transportation Museum to the Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan and the League of Enchantment, there is something to spark curiosity in every generation.

Grab your favorite red polka-dot scarf, throw on some denim, and help Michigan keep history alive!

EVENT DETAILS
WHEN: Friday, March 13, 2026

TIME: 4:00 PM

WHERE: Capital Region International Airport (4100 Capital City Blvd, Lansing, MI)

WEBSITE: Visit mirosieday.org 

Michigan Business Beat | Cindy Kangas, CAMC, Presenting Michigan Rosie the Riveter Day 2026 and More

Thursday, February 26th, MBN was on the road to the Capital Area Michigan Works! headquarters on Cedar Avenue, Lansing.

The event was presented by Lansing Growth Fund, National Coalition for Community Capital – NC3, and Holmes & Pleasant Grove
 
Capital Area Michigan Works!
 
Duration: 1 hr
 
Public  · Anyone on or off Facebook

JOIN US! THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2026

Capital Area Michigan Works! at 4pm-5pm

Large Conference Room, 2110 S. Cedar Street, Lansing, MI

More info on CAMW: https://www.camw.org

RSVP REQUIRED. SPACE IS LIMITED, so please RSVP on Facebook.

Capital Area Michigan Works! will be hosting this FREE informational session for the public to learn about the Lansing Growth Fund and its first project, Holmes & Pleasant Grove.

Learn how the fund will transform Southwest Lansing through community investment, engagement, and environmental and cultural stewardship by building and using local investment tools for community growth.

The session will also cover:
– Community Capital Model and financial structure of the fund
– Overview of the Holmes & Pleasant Grove project and timeline
– Overview of investment opportunities and requirements
– Q & A
Download info flyer here: https://bit.ly/3Z5r1pK
For more info, future events, and for updates, sign up for the newsletter here: http://www.lansinggrowthfund.com
—-
We are “testing the waters” to gauge investor interest in a potential offering under Regulation Crowdfunding. While we would love to hear from you about your interest in investing, at this time we are not asking for a commitment or for any money. Please don’t send us any money, since we cannot accept it and will have to return it to you. Only if and when we file an offering statement on Form C with the SEC will we be able to accept money or anything else of value from investors, and even then, any payment must be made through a licensed crowdfunding portal. For now, an indication of interest is not binding and involves no obligation of any kind.

MBN on the Road: Lansing Growth Fund Explains Holmes Pleasant Grove Project for Southwest Lansing.

Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026, MBN was on the road to the Crowne Plaza of Lansing.

LANSING, MICH. – Reports state of local hospitality industry and glimpse into 2026 initiatives
 
WHO: Choose Lansing® staff, Board of Directors, as well as area hospitality industry staff and other regional community leaders.
 
WHAT: Executive leadership of Choose Lansing® will share how the Greater Lansing hospitality and tourism industry welcomes 6.7 million visitors each year, generating $732 million dollars in economic impact for the region. It will also celebrate the CTA Star of the Year and share a look into 2026 initiatives.
 
WHERE: Crowne Plaza Lansing
925 S Creyts Rd.
Lansing, MI 48917
 
WHEN: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
###

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LANSING, MICH. – March 3, 2025– Choose Lansing® held its annual meeting March 3 at the Crowne Plaza Lansing, sharing an update on the region’s tourism industry, local visitor economic impact and upcoming initiatives. The event highlighted a record year for hotel room nights, recognized the CTA Star of the Year and previewed priorities for 2026.
 
In 2025, Greater Lansing recorded 1,137,836 hotel rooms consumed, with an occupancy rate of 55.4%. The region’s hospitality and tourism industry supports approximately 9,500 local jobs, welcomes 6.7 million visitors annually, and generates an estimated $732 million in economic impact.
 
“The momentum we’re seeing reflects a strong partnership between our hospitality businesses, community organizations and event planners,” said Julie Pingston, President and CEO of Choose Lansing. “Our role is to connect people to this destination, bringing visitors to Greater Lansing while supporting the businesses and workforce that make the experience memorable.”
 
To help ensure positive visitor experiences, Choose Lansing continues to lead the Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) program, which enters its 16th year in 2026. During its meeting, Choose Lansing recognized 532 active CTAs and honored Cheryl Ward, CTA and owner of Time To Travel, as the CTA Star of the Year.
 
“As we look ahead to 2026, we will continue serving as a resource for meeting and event planners while supporting our local hospitality partners and advancing initiatives that make Greater Lansing welcoming and accessible for all visitors,” Pingston said.
 
Full details and the 2025 Choose Lansing® annual report are available at lansing.org/about-us/annual-report-and-meeting/
 
About Choose Lansing®
The vision of Choose Lansing® is to inspire everyone to celebrate and love Greater Lansing as much as we do! Which goes hand in hand with our mission, to positively impact our community’s quality of life by developing the region as a visitor destination. Learn more at www.lansing.org.

MBN On the Road | Choose Lansing 2026 Annual Meeting Highlights from This Year's Event

As a media veteran with more than 25 years of working experience working in television, radio, print, and social media platforms, Tony and his guests will explore Rising and Falling Stars - the world's movers and shakers who serve others and/or who serve themselves.

18 yr old barber/rapper from 517 lansing Mi
features ready!
DM

The Home of Business in Michigan. Get on-demand access to audio programs, articles and resources presented by savvy business leaders and industry experts.

New tracks tagged #Lansing