TALK MIDLAND w/ Logan Richetti

Hosted by TALK MIDLAND

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Jun 2026

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About the show

A podcast with a mission to promote small businesses in the Midland, Michigan community. The show is hosted by Logan Richetti, the managing broker of Modern Realty, the largest real estate brokerage in Midland. He has a passion for supporting small business leaders in our area, and this podcast is a spotlight for their stories. Follow along to learn more as we #talkmidland.

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June 16, 2026Episode 8949 min

What Most People Don't Know About Firefighters | #89

When everyone else is running away from danger, firefighters are running toward it.Logan sits down with Midland Fire Marshal John Jurek to discuss what it really means to serve our community through fire prevention, emergency response, and public safety.John shares his unique journey into the fire service, inspired by his mother—one of the first female firefighters in Washtenaw County—and discusses everything from fire inspections and firefighter training to major emergencies, floods, and the realities of modern firefighting.In this episode, you'll learn: What a Fire Marshal actually does How businesses are inspected for fire safety The path to becoming a firefighter Why firefighter training never stops What happens when the alarm goes off at 3 AM Midland's fire stations and emergency response system Mutual aid and how departments work together Stories from floods, fires, and emergency situations The future of fire protection in Midland And John's passion for educating the public through social media and YouTube This conversation offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of Midland's most important public safety organizations.Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – Meet Fire Marshal John Jurek His role with the Midland Fire Department03:15 – Fire Inspections & Fire Code Enforcement How businesses stay safe08:20 – Growing Up Around Firefighters The influence of John's mother13:10 – One of the First Female Firefighters A trailblazing story18:45 – The Reality of Firefighter Training Why learning never stops24:30 – How to Become a Firefighter Career paths and certifications31:20 – Life Inside a Fire Station 24-hour shifts and emergency response38:10 – Midland's Fire Stations Explained How resources are deployed44:45 – Fire Department Staffing Challenges Meeting community needs50:15 – Major Emergencies & Mutual Aid How departments work together56:20 – The 2020 Flood & Community Response Lessons learned from disaster1:02:00 – Fire Prevention & Public Education Keeping Midland safe before emergencies happenKeywordsJohn Jurek, Midland Fire Department, Fire Marshal, Midland Michigan, Firefighter career, Fire safety, Fire inspections, Emergency response, Fire prevention, Midland podcast, Public safety, Firefighter training, Mutual aid, 2020 Midland flood, Talk Midland Podcast

June 9, 2026Episode 8831 min

The Secret to a Thriving Backyard Garden Starts Before You Plant Anything | #88

Dreaming of fresh vegetables from your backyard but don't know where to start?Logan sits down with Sara Zielinski, founder of Rooted Fork Garden, to talk about helping Midland families build successful kitchen gardens from the ground up.Sara shares why most gardening failures happen long before the first seed is planted and explains how the right setup can dramatically improve your chances of success.In this episode, you'll learn: Raised beds vs. in-ground gardens The biggest mistakes new gardeners make Why soil matters more than most people realize How to design a garden around what your family actually eats Watering strategies that help plants thrive The health benefits of homegrown food How gardening gets kids excited about vegetables Why succession planting can extend your harvest all season long Whether you're planting your first tomato or looking to improve an existing garden, this episode is packed with practical advice for creating a thriving backyard garden. Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – Why Most Gardens Fail The setup matters more than you think03:15 – What Is Rooted Fork Garden? Sarah's mission to help families garden successfully07:45 – Designing the Perfect Garden Starting with your family's goals12:30 – Raised Beds vs In-Ground Gardens Pros and cons of each approach18:40 – Soil: The Most Important Ingredient Why healthy soil changes everything24:20 – Watering Mistakes Most People Make Deep watering vs frequent watering30:15 – Gardening With Kids Creating lifelong healthy habits36:10 – Growing More Food in the Same Space Succession planting explained42:00 – Health Benefits of Homegrown Produce Freshness, nutrition, and flavor47:30 – Workshops, Coaching, and Garden Consultations How Sarah helps local families53:20 – Building a Garden You'll Actually Enjoy Creating habits that lastKeywordsRooted Fork Garden, Sarah Zielinski, Backyard gardening, Midland Michigan gardening, Raised bed gardens, Vegetable gardening, Kitchen garden, Homegrown vegetables, Gardening tips, Garden planning, Organic gardening, Michigan gardening, Gardening for beginners, Healthy eating, Talk Midland podcast

June 2, 2026Episode 8732 min

Creating a Vision of Greatness with ZingTrain | #87

What if the reason you're stuck isn't a lack of effort—but a lack of clarity?Logan sits down with Jason Story, Director of Talent at the Midland Business Alliance, to discuss the upcoming ZingTrain Visioning Workshop coming to Midland.Together they explore why vision is different from goals, why successful organizations document their future before they build it, and how individuals, employees, entrepreneurs, and leaders can use visioning to create more intentional growth.In this episode, you'll learn: The difference between vision, mission, goals, and strategy Why writing down your vision matters How Zingerman's grew from 3 employees to a nationally recognized organization Aligning employee and company visions The importance of talent attraction and retention in Midland Why Midland is positioning itself for future growth How businesses can attract great people And why the future starts with getting clear on what you actually want Whether you're building a company, planning your career, or simply trying to figure out what's next, this conversation offers practical insight into creating a meaningful future. Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – Why Vision Matters The importance of defining success03:15 – What Is the ZingTrain Visioning Workshop? Why it's coming to Midland08:20 – Vision vs Goals vs Strategy Understanding the differences14:30 – Aligning Employee & Employer Vision Creating stronger organizations20:45 – Why Most People Skip This Step The power of documentation27:10 – Lessons From Zingerman's Growing from 3 employees to hundreds34:15 – Building High-Performing Organizations Culture, communication, and clarity40:00 – Talent Attraction & Retention Challenges facing Midland46:30 – Midland's Future Vision Growth, housing, childcare, and opportunity53:20 – Turning Vision Into Action Practical takeaways for listenersKeywordsMidland Business Alliance, ZingTrain, Visioning Workshop, Business Leadership, Strategic Planning, Organizational Development, Talent Attraction, Talent Retention, Midland Michigan, Small Business Growth, Leadership Development, Business Vision, Employee Engagement, Talk Midland Podcast

May 26, 2026Episode 8627 min

A New School Model Is Coming to Midland — And Parents Are Paying Attention | #86

What if learning felt more personal, hands-on, and connected to real life?Logan sits down with Rachel Helmreich, co-founder of Opin Academy, to talk about a brand-new educational option coming to Midland this fall.Built around a small classroom model with only 18 students, OPIN Academy is rethinking traditional education with mixed-age learning, life skills, hands-on experiences, outdoor play, and stronger family connection.Rachel shares: Why she and her partner Cayla started OPIN Academy How becoming moms changed their perspective on education The differences between traditional school and micro schools Why mixed-age classrooms can actually benefit students The importance of hands-on learning and life skills How community volunteers will help teach students Why safety and connection are core values And what families can expect from this unique new concept This episode is a fascinating look at how education is evolving — and why more families are looking for alternatives. Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – What Is OPIN Academy? Introducing Midland’s new micro school03:10 – Why Rachel & Cayla Started This Motherhood and changing perspectives on education07:20 – What Makes This Different From Public School Hands-on learning and flexibility12:45 – The Mixed-Age Classroom Model Why younger and older students learn together18:10 – Online Curriculum + Real-Life Learning Balancing academics with life skills24:20 – Building Life Skills Through Community Experts Cooking, gardening, sewing, and more30:40 – Safety, Licensing, and Parent Communication Why structure matters36:15 – The Business Side of Starting a School Learning entrepreneurship from scratch42:30 – Tuition & Accessibility Conversations Why families are interested in alternatives48:20 – The Vision for the Future Growing beyond one classroomKeywords Rachel Helmrich, Midland MI schools. Micro school Michigan, Alternative education, Private school Midland, Small classroom education, Homeschool alternative, Hands-on learning, Midland parents, Life skills education, Early childhood education, Talk Midland podcast, Education innovation, Midland community

May 20, 20268 min

They say Midland desperately needs more childcare… so why fight the people trying to build it?

They say Midland desperately needs more childcare… so why fight the people trying to build it?I spoke at City Council Meeting about the vision for our first-class childcare center designed to support Midland families, working parents, and the next generation of kids in our community.This project isn’t about politics or profit — it’s about solving a real problem with real action.

May 19, 2026Episode 8552 min

Behind the Whistle: The Reality of Officiating Sports | #85

One whistle can make half the crowd cheer… and the other half lose their minds.Logan sits down with Kevin Crampton to talk about what it’s really like officiating high school football and basketball across Mid-Michigan.From screaming parents and packed gyms to split-second decisions and playoff pressure, Kevin shares what most fans never see behind the whistle.They discuss: Why there’s a shortage of referees and umpires The pressure of making game-changing calls How officials train and work their way up The difference between football and basketball officiating Handling angry coaches, fans, and players What happens when officials disagree on a call The mechanics behind officiating a football game And why sports officials deserve more respect than they get This episode is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the hardest — and most misunderstood — jobs in sports.Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – Why Referees Matter More Than People Realize Kevin’s journey into officiating03:20 – The Referee Shortage Problem Why fewer people want to do it07:15 – Thick Skin & Tough Crowds Handling criticism from fans and coaches11:10 – “Blow the Whistle” The importance of decisiveness15:45 – How Officials Get Started Youth sports to high school progression20:30 – The Structure of Football Officiating Crews Breaking down each position27:10 – What Officials Actually Watch During a Play Zones, keys, and mechanics explained35:20 – How Calls Are Made & Communicated Inside referee decision-making42:00 – Basketball vs Football Officiating Why basketball is harder48:10 – Big Games & High Pressure Situations 10,000 fans and playoff intensity54:45 – Coaches, Fans, and Ejections Handling conflict during games1:00:30 – Respect for Officials & the Future of Sports What needs to changeKeywordsKevin Crampton, Talk Midland podcast, High school sports officiating, Midland Michigan sports, Football referee, Basketball official, Youth sports referees, MHSA officials, Sports officiating shortage, High school football Michigan, Basketball refereeing, Midland MI podcast, Sports leadership, Referee stories, Behind the whistle

May 12, 2026Episode 8028 min

Caring for Loved Ones Without Burning Out: Inside Midland’s Adult Day Program | #84

Caring for a loved one is one of the hardest — and most important — roles someone can take on.Logan sits down with Christin Cardani of Senior Services Midland and Seasons Adult Day Health Services to talk about a powerful but often overlooked resource for families.Christin shares how Seasons provides a structured daytime program for individuals experiencing dementia, cognitive changes, or other conditions — while also giving caregivers something just as important: time.They dive into: What Seasons Adult Day Health Services actually is Who qualifies and how the program works Why socialization and routine matter for cognitive health How caregivers can avoid burnout What a typical day looks like for participants The importance of early intervention And how this program helps families keep loved ones at home longer This episode is about support, dignity, and giving both seniors and caregivers a better quality of life.Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – What Is Senior Services Midland? Overview of programs and services03:10 – What Is Seasons Adult Day Health Services? A unique program for cognitive care06:45 – Who the Program Is Designed For Dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s, and more11:20 – Why Socialization Matters Combating isolation and creating purpose16:10 – A Day in the Life at Seasons Activities, structure, and engagement21:30 – Supporting Caregivers Respite care and avoiding burnout26:45 – Flexibility & Scheduling Options Part-time, full-time, and trial days31:10 – Early Intervention Benefits Why starting sooner matters36:20 – Cost & Financial Assistance Options Making care accessible41:00 – Volunteers & Community Support How people can get involved45:30 – Keeping Loved Ones at Home Longer Why programs like this matterKeywordsChristin Cardani, Senior Services Midland, Seasons Adult Day Health Services, Dementia care Midland MI, Caregiver support services, Adult day programs Michigan, Midland MI podcast, Talk Midland podcast, Senior care resources, Cognitive health programs, Alzheimer’s support Midland, Respite care services, Aging in place support, Caregiver burnout help, Midland community services

May 5, 2026Episode 8330 min

What’s Really Happening in Congress (And Why It Matters Here) | #83

What really happens behind the scenes in Congress — and how does it impact Midland?This week on Talk Midland, Logan sits down with Congressman John Moolenaar to talk about everything from local issues to global challenges — and what it means to serve Michigan at the national level.From supporting farmers and small businesses to navigating complex global tensions with China, Congressman Moolenaar shares insight into the decisions shaping our economy, security, and future.They discuss: What it’s like representing a 20-county district Challenges facing farmers and small businesses New tax policies impacting workers and families The role of government in helping constituents Global competition with China and national security concerns Child care challenges and opportunities What it’s really like to run for Congress And how growing up in Midland shaped his path to public service This is a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, service, and staying connected to the people you represent.Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – What It Means to Serve in Congress Representing Michigan’s 2nd District03:20 – Redistricting & Representing New Communities Changes after the 2020 census07:10 – Challenges Facing Farmers Today Rising costs, labor, and policy impacts12:45 – Helping Constituents Navigate Government VA, IRS, and federal support18:20 – New Tax Policies Explained No tax on tips, overtime, and benefits24:30 – How Legislation Actually Gets Passed Behind-the-scenes in Congress30:15 – U.S. vs China: Economic & Security Concerns Trade, technology, and global competition38:40 – Why Taiwan Matters Strategic importance and global impact44:10 – Child Care Challenges in Michigan Access, affordability, and opportunity50:20 – Running for Congress The realities of campaigning55:45 – Listening to Constituents Why communication matters1:00:10 – Growing Up in Midland Family, faith, and community impactKeywordsJohn Moolenaar, Talk Midland podcast, Midland Michigan politics, U.S. Congressman Michigan, Michigan farming issues, Tax policy changes, China economic competition, U.S. trade policy, Midland MI podcast, Government and policy discussion, Child care policy Michigan, Running for Congress, Constituent services, Michigan economic development, Public service leadership

April 24, 2026Episode 8251 min

A Conversation About Race That Midland Needed to Have | #82

How one tense moment between two men led to a larger conersation about race in our communityLogan sits down with PJ Weaver to talk about an interaction with his neighbor that quickly escalated — and what happened after it went public.But this conversation goes deeper than the moment itself.PJ shares his perspective on:Growing up in Dayton, Ohio and the mindset it shapedHow he handled the situation with composure instead of angerThe reality of race conversations in everyday lifeWhy forgiveness doesn’t mean forgettingThe power of perspective and lived experienceHis journey through basketball and how it shaped his disciplineAnd how he hopes to turn this moment into something positive for the Midland communityThis is a real, honest, and at times uncomfortable conversation — but one rooted in understanding, growth, and moving forward together.Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – A Week That Changed Everything How the situation unfolded02:30 – The Neighbor Interaction What actually happened that day06:45 – When the Conversation Turned The moment it became about race11:10 – Choosing Composure Over Reaction Why PJ stayed calm16:30 – Fear, Intent, and Perspective Understanding both sides21:50 – Growing Up in Dayton, Ohio A different environment and mindset27:40 – Race, Experience, and Perception How upbringing shapes perspective33:20 – Sports as a Way Out Basketball, discipline, and opportunity39:00 – Forgiveness Without Forgetting What that really means44:30 – Community Response & Going Viral How people reacted49:50 – Turning Pain Into Purpose Creating something positiveKeywords Race conversation podcast, Community discussion Midland MI, Forgiveness and growth, Viral video discussion, Midland Michigan podcast, Social issues conversation, Conflict and resolution, Athlete mindset discipline, Dayton Ohio upbringing, Perspective and empathy, Community healing, Real conversations podcast, Personal growth stories

April 21, 2026Episode 8143 min

Why Budgeting Isn’t About Cutting — It’s About Freedom | #81

What if budgeting wasn’t about restriction — but about freedom?Logan sits down with Jake Randall of Wild Freedom Financial Coaching to break down how people can go from feeling overwhelmed with money… to being fully in control of it.Jake shares a simple but powerful approach to personal finance — one that focuses on intentional spending, clarity, and building a plan that actually works in real life.They dive into: Why most people feel lost with their finances The power of a cash flow plan Why visibility creates control How to handle variable income Emergency funds and debt payoff strategies Common mistakes people make in their 20s and 30s How to create financial goals that actually excite you And how to build long-term freedom with your money This episode is about clarity, confidence, and taking control of your financial future.Stay Connected with Us!Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan.Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:@TALKMIDLANDJoin the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community!#TalkMidland Chapter Notes00:00 – Why Most People Feel Lost With Money Understanding the problem03:00 – What Is Financial Coaching? How Jake helps clients06:30 – Visibility Creates Control Tracking income and expenses10:15 – The Truth About Budgeting It’s not about cutting everything14:20 – Intentional Spending Explained Using money with purpose19:40 – Managing Variable Income Planning when income fluctuates24:30 – Emergency Funds & Financial Security Why it matters29:10 – Debt Payoff Strategy How to approach it effectively34:45 – Common Financial Mistakes What people get wrong early on39:20 – The Power of Simplicity Why simple systems win44:10 – Financial Goals That Actually Motivate You Dreaming beyond survival49:30 – Building Long-Term Freedom From structure to flexibilityKeywords Wild Freedom Financial Coaching, Personal finance coaching, Budgeting tips, Cash flow planning, Debt payoff strategy, Emergency fund advice, Financial freedom planning, Midland MI podcast, Talk Midland podcast, Money management tips, Variable income budgeting, Financial coaching services, Intentional spending, Financial habits