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.
Ep. 335: Capital Area Manufacturing Council Celebrates Annual Rosie the Riveter Event
Michigan is a state that “makes stuff” - and we’re hell bent to keep it that way. We have massive manufacturers, and we have many thriving small manufacturers as well. One resource available to them is through the Capital Area Manufacturing Council. Joining Chris to discuss their work, and an upcoming event, is Executive Director of CAMC, Cindy Kangas!
23 min
6 March 2025
Ep. 334: New Federal Outdoor Recreation Industry Data Released
Outdoor recreation checks a lot of boxes when it comes to things that bring value to our lives. It drives our health and wellness, and it drives our economy. Joining Chris to discuss some new federal reporting - and what it means for Michigan - is the Vice President of Programs for the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, Chris Perkins, and the Executive Director of the Michigan’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, Brad Garmon!
29 min
26 February 2025
Ep. 333: Health Bar Provides Modern View on Healthcare Trends
Healthcare is a hotly discussed topic. The news around their field is endless - and many ask, how do we balance affordability and truly drive wellness in our communities? Because it isn’t happening. Joining Chris to share his unique perspective on the state of our healthcare system is the Founder & CEO of Health Bar, Nathan Baar!
Today’s guest compares her work in community planning to road trips – successful journeys involve understanding the starting point, the destination, and how the route might be impacted by what we discover along the journey. Joining Chris to talk about her passion - and her firm’s work in this space - is a Partner from Detroit-based civil engineering firm Giffels Webster, Jill Bahm!
27 min
12 February 2025
Ep. 331: Bikky Helps Restaurants use Data to Increase Frequency and Reduce Churn
The food service industry is notoriously difficult to navigate. Success is hard, and the pandemic made things even more challenging - not only due to temporary closures - but also the changed behavior of consumers. Joiniing Chris to discuss a platform built to assist restaurateurs is the Co-Founder and CEO of Bikky, Abhinav Kapur!
23 min
5 February 2025
Ep. 330: Michigan’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Drives National Momentum
Michigan is a wonderful place to get outdoors. Whether it’s exploring the great lakes, skiing, snowmobiling, hiking or ice fishing, we have plenty of ways to get moving. Michigan has an ecosystem to share the benefits of getting outside. Joining Chris to share the efforts of Michigan’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Office is their Executive Director, Brad Garmon!
30 min
29 January 2025
Ep. 329: Researching Gender Differences in Emerging Adults to Combat Mental Illness
Men are told to “man up” and “tough it out”, while women are told to “hold their tongue.” It’s evident men and women differ - and these gender differences surface all the more in mental health. Joining Chris to discuss her research targeting proper care for Gen Z men and women battling mental illness is psychology professor and the public health program director at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Dr. Julie Yonker!
29 min
22 January 2025
Ep. 328: Former Professional Athlete Engages with Lansing Public Schools to Assist Youth
Lansing has produced a lot of talented people, and talented people are often lured away to chase their dreams elsewhere. Every now and then we get a star to return home. Joining Chris to share how he is giving back to his community is former basketball star, Jon Horford!
27 min
15 January 2025
Ep. 327: Super Web Pros Publishes a 6 Step Framework to Unlock Your Company’s AI-X Factor
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 his IT business and its AI evolution is the Founder of Super Web Pros, Jesse Flores!
26 min
8 January 2025
Ep. 326: Local Food Truck Owner Evolves to Brick & Mortar
Almost a year ago, I interviewed Jose Aste - the CEO and Founder of the Peruvian restaurant Tantay, who has evolved from test kitchen, to food truck, to its first brick-and-mortar location in Okemos. A medical emergency slowed their progress and has only recently opened to the public. Please enjoy this encore presentation of Chris's interview with Jose where they discuss his new, permanent location for Tantay.
