Hosted by Chris Buck
Episodes
426
Latest episode
Aug 2026
Language
EN
Michigan Reimagined tells the stories of people and organizations who are driving Michigan’s economic sustainability. Chris believes that Michigan residents often lead with an apology for the shortcomings of this fabulous state, and he thinks that is unnecessary. Every city has its perks and problems. Instead of complaining about what we don’t have, healthier behavior is finding those doing great work and giving them a platform to share their results. Whether it’s new restaurants, housing stock, talent retention, transportation innovation, tourism, development incentives, placemaking or arts – this state is full of passionate people in action. Hear their stories in 15 minute, deep-dive interviews on Michigan Reimagined.
Chris has touted Lansing’s depth and breadth of business support for years. Today’s show is yet another example of ways your business can get the tools it needs to thrive. Joining him to share the details of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce’s new THRIVE series - “Leadership Development for Every Stage” is their Talent Development Manager, Sarah Bakken!
In August 2021, Hip Hop Appreciation month became a state holiday. All of the Above Hip Hop Academy (AOTA) immediately got after it. On August 15th, AOTA will be hosting the 5th annual Cap City Breaking Jam at the Lansing Shuffle. Joining Chris to share the history and details of this amazing event is the Executive Director of All of the Above Hip Hop Academy, Ozay Moore!
It’s become commonplace for people to complain about work. Many will flippantly make disparaging comments about their jobs, and others feel real disdain and disengagement about their worklives. A group of professionals have decided it’s time to change that thought process and launched the Empowerment Institute for Michigan. Joining Chris to discuss their mission and curriculum are President, Dr. Tonya Bailey, and COO Amy Partin!
Success begets success, and investment often begets investment. I recently saw an article about sections of Kalamazoo making major investment, and learned more about how that might affect the housing nearby. Joining Chris to share his perspective of these endeavors is a Realtor with EXP Realty of SW Michigan, Jared Stout!
Artificial Intelligence is here, and here to stay. Many are tinkering with its abilities, but others are diving into the deep end to become experts and assist others with their journeys. Joining Chris to speak on their new endeavor - Compound - is the Founder of Super Web Pros and teacher of AI systems and organizational design at Michigan State, Jesse Flores and Founder of Lead With Collective, and a 20-year people-and-HR leader for global, Fortune 1000 companies, Julie Mann!
East Lansing has undergone a major transformation in the past decade, East from Hannah Plaza and the Hub, through downtown’s Landmark & Abbot projects, and West to Skyview and Red Cedar. Some say that’s enough, others say more is needed. Joining Chris to discuss another project downtown East Lansing called “The Howard” is the Chief Executive Officer for Harbor Bay Ventures, Mark Bell!
The MSU Research Foundation has been at the forefront of fostering Michigan start-ups for years. They recently announced a new investment in East Lansing. Joining Chris to discuss what that means and why it’s important is the Director of Research Parks for the MSU Research Foundation, Jeff Smith!
Michigan’s K-12 education performance is a hotly discussed topic lately. But it’s hard to make considerable improvements until you first address the teacher shortage. One lifelong educator has launched an organization focused on doing just that - building a more robust educator pipeline. Joining Chris to tell the story of Michigan’s Educator Workforce Initiative is its Founding Partner & CEO, Jack Elsey!
Non-Profit Helps Returning Vets Get Into Skilled Trades
Housing opportunities and solutions may be the largest challenge Michgian is facing. The City of Detroit has an established organization called the Detroit Housing Commission - and they are providing an amazing amount of support to its residents. Joining Chris to share their story, their mission and their services are Detroit Housing Commission Executive Director, Arthur Jemison and Chief Operating Officer, Irene Tucker!
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