Michigan Business Network

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Aug 2026

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

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August 31, 202612 min

100% Hustle | William J. Allen Jr. - Accountability, Reentry and Second Chances

100% Hustle Podcast William J. Allen Jr. - Accountability, Reentry and Second Chances In this powerful episode of 100% Hustle, Vicki Hamilton sits down with William J. Allen Jr., founder of New Chapter Life Coaching, to explore the critical connection between accountability, rehabilitation, and second chances. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in the criminal justice system, William shares why successful reentry requires far more than simply completing a sentence. Through an honest and thought-provoking conversation, he discusses the barriers many individuals face after incarceration, including employment, housing, education, and the importance of character development. This episode challenges common assumptions and offers a hopeful perspective on personal transformation, demonstrating that when individuals are given the tools, support, and opportunity to rebuild their lives, entire communities benefit. One message resonates above all others: your worst day does not define your future. Bio: William J. Allen Jr. is a U.S. military veteran, retired Michigan Department of Corrections professional, author, and founder of New Chapter Life Coaching, LLC. With more than 30 years of criminal justice experience, William served in a variety of roles, including corrections officer, prisoner counselor, probation officer, sergeant, and internal affairs investigator. Drawing on decades of frontline experience, William founded New Chapter Life Coaching to help individuals impacted by the criminal justice system overcome barriers, take accountability, and build sustainable paths forward. Through life coaching, mentoring, character development, and reentry support, New Chapter Life Coaching works to address challenges such as employment, housing, decision-making, substance use recovery, and successful reintegration into the community. William is also the author of 12 Weeks to a New Chapter: A Character-Based Life Coaching Journey for At-Risk Individuals and the Professionals Who Walk Beside Them. His work is grounded in a simple principle: second chances and public safety are not competing ideas. When accountability is combined with meaningful opportunity and support, individuals have a better chance to succeed—and communities become stronger and safer. Today, William uses his professional and lived leadership experience to advocate for a more effective approach to reentry, one that begins early, addresses real-world barriers, and gives people who genuinely want to change the tools and opportunity to write a new chapter. Here is the book link: https://a.co/d/05B7rik0 William Allen, Director of Character Development & Coaching New Chapter Life Coaching LLC 3118 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Suite 205C Clearwater, FL 33759 (727) 348-4640 wallen@newchapterlifecoachingllc.com www.newchapterlifecoachingllc.com » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: X.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

August 28, 20267 min

Michigan Business Beat | Carson Patten & Samantha Le, Martin Commercial Properties Retail Trends

Originally uploaded August 14, reloaded August 28th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Carson Patten, CCIM, Vice President, Retail Advisor, Martin Commercial Properties, along with Samantha Le, Senior Associate, Retail Advisor, Martin Commercial Properties, They share the latest Martin Commercial Properties Retail Advisory What are you seeing in Greater Lansing’s retail market right now, and what is driving the demand you’re seeing? Restaurant, service, and experiential businesses appear to be expanding. What types of retailers are best positioned to grow in the current market? Retailers are facing higher construction, tenant improvement, and occupancy costs. How are those costs affecting where businesses choose to locate? With retail vacancy at 17.1%, what are you seeing among properties that are leasing successfully versus those that are struggling to attract tenants? Looking ahead to the second half of 2026, what should retail owners, investors, and business operators be watching most closely? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: X.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ EAST LANSING, Mich. – Martin Commercial Properties has released its H1 2026 Greater Lansing Market Insights reports, providing an in-depth analysis of the region's industrial, office, and retail commercial real estate markets. The reports show a commercial real estate market that remains stable despite continued economic uncertainty. While inflation, tariffs, elevated construction costs, higher financing costs, and evolving workplace strategies continue to influence decision-making, leasing activity has remained steady and long-term market fundamentals continue to support investment throughout the region. "The first half of 2026 was characterized by thoughtful decision-making rather than rapid expansion," said Van W. Martin, SIOR, CCIM, CRE, President and CEO of Martin Commercial Properties. "Businesses continue to move forward, but they're taking more time to evaluate space needs, capital investments, and long-term operating costs. That's reflected across each property type in different ways." The industrial market remained one of Greater Lansing's strongest sectors, with vacancy declining modestly to 12.3%. However, much of the available inventory remains concentrated within a small number of large vacant facilities, while modern industrial space, particularly in the West Submarket, continues to be in limited supply. Leasing activity was active but driven primarily by renewals and lease extensions rather than major expansions or relocations. 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/ ####

August 27, 202637 min

Bold LeadHERS | Ep. 13: Rebecca DeVooght & Sarah Hubbard, Women Leading Through Policy & Change

Recently, Lorri and Becky welcomed a pair of dynamic women this month. They speak with Rebecca DeVooght and Sarah Hubbard who share leadership lessons from public policy, higher education and advocacy, and what it takes to lead boldly. Rebecca DeVooght: Rebecca is an experienced government relations professional with a career spanning nearly 25 years in various state and public sector positions. Prior to coming to Michigan State University, she represented the University of Michigan for 11 years as the Director of State Relations, focusing most of her time on state appropriations and on elevating research and academic freedom through strong collaborations with university academic and administrative units on the various intersections with state policy. Through her direct efforts, she was successful in securing base appropriation increases for the university as well as Capital Outlay support for such purposes as University of Michigan's School of Dentistry, a joint project between the College of Engineering and School of Information as well as other critical research projects. She has successfully worked to enhance campus engagement and collaboration with a wide range of government and non-government organizations beyond higher education. Show notes: Lorri and Becky sat down with Rebecca DeVooght, Vice President of Government Relations at Michigan State University. In the first segment, Rebecca dives into how she grew up with two parents who worked in social work and how that led to where she took her career, being very motivated from a young age. Sarah Hubbard: Principal, Acuitas | Regent, University of Michigan With more than 25 years of experience at the intersection of government relations, public affairs, and higher education governance, Sarah L. Hubbard is a proven leader in navigating complex policy environments, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving organizational success. Sarah currently serves as Principal and Co-Owner of Acuitas, a Lansing-based government relations and business development consulting firm. In this role, she works with clients ranging from small nonprofits to Fortune 500 companies, providing expert guidance on advocacy strategies, political engagement, and relationship building. Her deep connections with Michigan’s highest-ranking officials — including the governor, legislature, congressional delegation, and municipal leaders — have helped deliver results to her clients. In addition to her private sector work, Sarah was elected to the University of Michigan Board of Regents in 2020. As a Regent, she has played a pivotal role in overseeing the university’s $15 billion budget and $20 billion endowment. She has served as Board Chair, Chair of the Finance, Audit, and Investment Committee, and Co-Chair of the Presidential Search Committee, demonstrating her ability to lead through complex governance and financial challenges. Sarah has also provided critical strategic input during crises, including cyberattacks, campus safety incidents, and high-profile protests, often serving as a spokesperson to local and national media. Her experience extends to guiding the university’s health system — now larger than its academic units — through risk assessment and long-term capital planning. Sarah’s earlier career includes 17 years at the Detroit Regional Chamber, where she served as Senior Vice President of Government Relations. In this capacity, she was the Chamber’s primary liaison to policymakers at all levels, representing the interests of 23,000 member organizations. She worked closely with Michigan’s largest corporate leaders to advance shared advocacy goals and served as management’s voice in the Chamber boardroom. Sarah earned an MBA from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, a Master of Public Administration from Western Michigan University, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan.

August 26, 20268 min

Michigan Business Beat | Tekea Norwood & Maya Craft, Employer Advisory Board Advances Talent

Originally uploaded August 14th, reloaded August 26th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Tekea Norwood, COO, Capital Area Michigan Works! and Maya Craft, Director of Career Development, Career Office for Michigan State University. Each shares their perspective on each of these questions. What is the Employer Advisory Board, and what is it trying to achieve? The E.A.B. recently celebrated its first anniversary. What progress has the board accomplished in this first year? How can employers get involved? What are the benefits to employers on the board? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: X.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

August 26, 20265 min

Michigan Business Beat | Shelia Scott, LAFCU, Building Stronger Financial Futures

Originally uploaded August 21st, reloaded August 26th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Shelia Scott, Community Financial Education and Business Development Officer, LAFCU. Their discussion covers LAFCU’s Pathway to Financial Transformation Program – Open enrollment until August 31st. Q1: For people who may not be familiar with Pathway to Financial Transformation, what is it all about? A: Pathway to Financial Transformation is a free online financial education program designed to help adults build stronger financial habits and work toward a more secure financial future. Participants get practical tools they can use in their everyday lives, including around budgeting, saving, credit, lending and investing. Q2: What made LAFCU want to create a program like this? A: LAFCU is committed to helping people build stronger financial futures, and we know financial education can make a real difference. People are at different points in their financial journeys, so Pathway gives participants practical knowledge, guidance and accountability they can use to make informed decisions and work toward their own financial goals. Q3: Who is this program for? Do you have to be an LAFCU member to participate? A: No. The program is open to anyone in the country, regardless of LAFCU membership. It’s really for those who want to strengthen their financial knowledge or work toward goals such as improving their credit, reducing debt, building savings or preparing to buy a home. Q4: What does the experience look like for someone who signs up? A: Participants attend 16 one-hour virtual classes every other Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m., beginning Sept. 10 and continuing through April 1. LAFCU professionals and guest experts cover topics such as savings, budgeting, credit, lending, investing and first-time homebuying. Those who successfully complete the program will also be recognized at a cap-and-gown graduation ceremony in spring 2027. Q5: What have you seen people accomplish through Pathway? A: We’ve seen participants make some really meaningful changes in their financial lives. Graduates from previous cohorts have reported increasing their credit scores by more than 100 points, paying off significant debt, building emergency savings and creating long-term financial plans. That’s really the goal of Pathway — giving people the knowledge and tools to feel more confident about their finances and take steps toward their goals. Q6: If someone is listening and thinking, “This sounds like something I could use,” how can they enroll? A: Enrollment is open through Aug. 31, and people can learn more and sign up at lafcu.com/pathway. It’s a great opportunity to invest some time in your financial future, and there’s no cost to participate. ### » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: X.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

August 24, 202613 min

100% Hustle - Alec Bantel, ACTIQO - Managing the Business of a Busy Family

100% Hustle Podcast Managing the Business of a Busy Family In this episode of 100% Hustle, Vicki Hamilton talks with Alec Bantel, founder of ACTIQO, about using technology to simplify the hidden workload behind managing a busy family. They explore how better coordination and data-driven insights can help parents assess the true value of activities and make more informed decisions about where to invest their family’s time, energy, and resources, particularly when our most important assets, our children, are at the center of those decisions. A practical and insightful conversation busy parents won’t want to miss. Bio Alec Bantel is the founder of ACTIQO, a family activity intelligence and coordination platform for parents managing children’s sports, lessons, clubs, and other extracurricular activities. ACTIQO helps families coordinate schedules, preparation, transportation, responsibilities, and caregiver handoffs while better understanding whether each activity remains worth the time, cost, energy, and family workload. Alec is a Metro Detroit product leader, entrepreneur, and father of three. He earned his MBA from Wayne State University’s Mike Ilitch School of Business and is building ACTIQO to reduce the invisible work surrounding children’s activities and help families make more confident, sustainable decisions. Learn more about ACTIQO at https://getactiqo.com ACTIQO Website: https://getactiqo.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/actiqo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACTIQO Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getactiqo X: https://x.com/actiqo Alec Bantel X: https://x.com/Alec_Bantel ACTIQO founder Alec Bantel shares how technology can help busy families manage activities, time, costs, and the hidden workload of parenting. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: X.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

August 20, 20267 min

Michigan Business Beat | Janet Howard, Michigan Heritage Rodeo, Growing Heritage & Opportunity

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Janet Howard, President, Michigan Heritage Rodeo, Lansing, MI. Welcome Janet, please share with the Michigan business community about the Michigan Heritage Rodeo? How does your three-day November event create opportunities for young people to learn about careers in the equine industry, agriculture, and other related fields? From a business perspective, what does an event like the Michigan Heritage Rodeo bring to Lansing and the region, particularly in terms of visitors, vendors, sponsors, and economic activity? But folks don't need to wait until November for fun I understand you have an event this Saturday in REO Town? Looking ahead, what is your vision for the Michigan Heritage Rodeo as it grows, and how can Michigan businesses get involved as sponsors, vendors, community partners, or supporters of the youth programs? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: X.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

August 17, 202611 min

Michigan Business Beat | Charity Dean, MBBA, Advancing Black Business Growth Across Michigan

Originally uploaded July 27th, reloaded August 17th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Charity Dean, CEO, Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA), Detroit, MI. Welcome, Charity, we weren't able to fit you in at Mackinac, can you tell us about MBBA? MBBA is celebrating five years of impact this year. Looking back, what accomplishments are you most proud of, and what do they say about the needs and opportunities facing Black entrepreneurs across Michigan? MBBA recently released its 2026 Policy Pillars. What are the top priorities you believe policymakers, business leaders, and economic development stakeholders should focus on to help small businesses thrive? Your report highlights nearly $14.7 million in capital access facilitated or supported, and almost 2,000 entrepreneurs served. What barriers do Black-owned businesses still face when it comes to accessing capital and growth opportunities? As Michigan looks toward the 2026 election cycle and continued economic development discussions, what role should entrepreneurship and small business growth play in shaping the state's future? MBBA has expanded its reach across communities, including Detroit, Flint, and Grand Rapids. What is your vision for the organization's next five years, and what impact do you hope to have on Michigan's business ecosystem? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: X.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Michigan Black Business Alliance Marks Five Years with Release of 2026 Policy Pillars Ahead of Mackinac Policy Conference, Calling for Greater Investment in Black-Owned Businesses and Small Business Growth Across Michigan As Michigan prepares for a pivotal election cycle, MBBA outlines key policy priorities impacting entrepreneurs, economic opportunity and the future of small business statewide DETROIT — May 2026 — As leaders from across the state gather for the Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss Michigan’s economic future, the Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) is marking five years of impact with the release of its 2026 Policy Pillars and Five-Year Impact Report, outlining priorities to strengthen Black-owned businesses, expand economic opportunity and support long-term small business growth across Michigan. The release comes at a pivotal moment as Michigan enters a consequential 2026 election cycle that includes races for governor, U.S. Senate and the Michigan House. MBBA says the conversations shaping Michigan’s future must include entrepreneurs and small businesses, particularly Black-owned businesses that continue to face barriers to capital, procurement opportunities and sustainable growth. Since launching in 2021, MBBA has supported nearly 2,000 entrepreneurs across Michigan, facilitated or supported more than $14.7 million in capital access, connected members to more than 1,500 business opportunities and delivered more than 7,000 hours of one-on-one technical assistance through programs designed to help businesses start, grow and scale. ### About the Michigan Black Business Alliance The Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the racial wealth gap by developing programs and advancing policies that support profitable, sustainable Black-owned businesses across Michigan.

August 16, 202634 min

NLEA 2026 Economic Symposium Closing Panel: A Conversation with the Northern Michigan Caucus Part 2

Friday, May 15th, from 8 am – 2 pm at Boyne Mountain Resort, MBN joined the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance for their 2026 Economic Symposium. Following the Keynote Speaker, David Malpass, there were several Breakout Sessions to choose from: Made in Northern Michigan: How Regional Manufacturing Is Powering a Stronger Economy – Grown in Northern Michigan: State of the Agriculture Sector – Built in Northern Michigan: Developing a Strong Construction Sector – Open For Business: How Local Leaders Can Encourage Business and Community Investment – The annual awards luncheon, then, finally, was the two-part video content shared here covering the... Closing Panel: A Conversation with the Northern Michigan Caucus Northern Lakes Economic Alliance of Michigan's communities and businesses don’t operate in a vacuum; they operate within a policy environment that can either support or inhibit them. Join members of the Northern Michigan Caucus for a dynamic and candid conversation about the state decisions shaping the region’s economic future. This closing panel brought to the gathering the legislators influencing policies around infrastructure, housing, taxes, regulatory reform, and other areas critical to economic resilience. Gain insight into what’s emerging from Lansing, how it impacts northern Michigan, and how regional leaders can work together to advance practical, forward-thinking solutions. Representative Parker Fairbairn, 107th District Representative Cam Cavitt, 106th District Senator John Damoose, 37th District The session was moderated by the NLEA President and CEO, Payton Heins, CEcD.

August 16, 20266 min

Michigan Business Beat | Lorri Rishar Jandron, EDGE Partnerships, '26 Business, Talent, AI & Service

Chris Holman welcomes back Lorri Rishar Jandron, MBA, Owner & CEO, EDGE Partnerships, Lansing, Marquette. Welcome back, Lorri. What were your highlights from the Mackinac Policy Conference? How has the summer gone for EDGE? Are you finding the talent you need? How has A.I. been impacting your business sector? You have the heart for service; tell us about AARP Michigan? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/