Michigan Business Network

Originally uploaded October 11, re-edited October 18th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Melissa Jones, Rapid Response State Coordinator, for Michigan's LEO, the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity along with Tekea Norwood, COO, CAMW! the Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham Eaton and Clinton Counties. THEME: Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Rapid Response State Coordinator, Melissa Jones, and CAMW! COO, Tekea Norwood, explain the Rapid Response program at the state level and how it supports businesses facing potential layoff situations. Question 1: What is Rapid Response? What is the goal of the program and why is it an important resource for employers across the state? The primary purpose of the Rapid Response is to help employees affected by layoffs or plant closures quickly access the workforce services they need to regain employment as soon as possible. This support aims to minimize the negative impacts of job loss, such as prolonged unemployment or skil

Faces of Manufacturing is a new show to Michigan Business Network. Cindy Kangas, Executive Director, CAMC, Capital Area Manufacturing Council, Lansing, Michigan, co-hosts with Joy Wagner, HR Manager of Granger Waste Services, also Lansing. Cindy and Joy strive to share the corporate culture, personal stories, and unique personalities of those making a living in manufacturing today, in Michigan. With that in mind, this month they connected with several members of the LaFontaine family of dealerships. The Family Deal: It’s Not Just What You Get, It’s How You Feel. For this episode they're speaking with Guests: Lansing Community College - West Campus - Technical Careers Division Sid Mosley - manufacturing faculty mechatronics Program director - Brian Skogheim Student - Tim Smith was in welding - Now in mfg engineering Makayla Lee - student Welder. Questions they anticipated: Faculty: What inspired you to pursue a career in the trades? What advice do you give students who are just starting out in their trade?

Originally uploaded October 4th For Media Business Episode 79: Tony Conley welcomes Tim Daman, President and CEO, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. They discuss mid-Michigan's & Michigan's economy and business environment. The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) team works tirelessly to provide value and tools to help businesses connect, grow, and thrive. The LRCC aims to meet the needs of each of its more than 1,000 members by fostering meaningful community and business relationships, promoting economic development, and providing cost-effective membership benefits. Professional development opportunities are also available through the organization, as well as the facilitation of public policy conversations that affect our region. Daman oversees the LRCC team, including business development, advocacy, marketing and communications, and accounting and finance. Daman joined the LRCC in 2005 as vice president of economic development and was promoted to vice president of operations and strategic ini

Vic Verchereau welcomes Emilie Wolscheid, who is the owner of Emilie’s Activewear Boutique. After almost 20 years in property management, Emilie Wohlscheid left her career to have more time with her family. Being home with her girls was amazing, but she was left looking for more. In an effort to lose weight, she started running. To hold herself accountable, she started a consecutive streak of running each day for almost 3 years. Serious health issues caused many challenges, but through it all she started up again and never looked back. Today she is now at over 4 years of running daily and averaging close to 12 miles a day. After losing 100 lbs and She wants everyone to know "that it is possible to change how you look and feel". Emilie was invited to an online Zyia party in the fall of 2019. She found a connection to her healthier new self and a quality clothing line to start her new business. Fast forward 5 years later. She says "I have an amazing community of customers who have also become friends

Originally uploaded October 2nd For Media Business Episode 78: Tony Conley welcomes Jason Feig is the Midwest Regional Sales Manager for Khan Academy. Their discussion covers a lot of points, but focuses on these questions: What are the fears about AI & Education that you hear from teachers, administrators, parents, students & legislators? How do you get them to understand that AI is just a tool for education? Why are so many school districts failing when it comes to teaching our kids? Khan Academy Districts offers your district implementation, support, and professional learning from experienced educators who are focused on both the how and the why. Our reporting brings it all together for teachers and administrators to ensure skills gaps are closed and that students can work at grade level and beyond. The best way to learn about bringing Khan Academy to your Ohio district is to talk with Midwest Partnerships Manager, Dr. Jason Feig or visit our Districts Partnership site. Here’s what you can expect wh

Chris Holman welcomes the M.S.U. perspective from the recent Michigan Inventors Expo. His guest for this video; Jenan Jondy, REI Coordinator, Center for Community & Economic Development, University Outreach and Engagement, Michigan State University, Lansing, MI. Jenan, bring the Michigan business community up to speed on MSU's REI? You were on hand recently for the Michigan Inventors Coalition's 12th Annual Expo, speak to your role and what you took away from the day? With Regional Economic Innovation (REI); It would be great to discuss how the Center crowdsources ideas to innovation to co-create innovative economic development tools, models, policies, and practices? What types of projects are supported? Tell us about your Annual call for proposals in October? Some information on the Center: Since 2011, the Michigan State University Regional Economic Innovation (REI) EDA University Center has been leveraging higher education assets in collaboration with distressed regions to support the co-creation, c

Vic Verchereau welcomes Karin Hurt, who is the founder of Let's Grow Leaders. Karin inspires courage, confidence, and innovation. A former Verizon Wireless executive, she’s known for growing courageous leaders, building great cultures, and inspiring high-performance teams. She’s the award Winning Author of five books including Courageous Cultures, and was named as in Inc. Great Leadership Speaker for her highly-interactive keynotes and executive programs. She inspires and guides leaders with Leadership Development programs; a weekly blog, and Asking For a Friend show. Vic Verchereau welcomes Karin back to the Leadership Lowdown to discuss her latest book and to share her knowledge on building success through effective leadership. Get ready to take some notes! This edition is loaded with great tips! » 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

Chris Holman welcomes back Nicole Noll-Williams, president and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Authority, Lansing, MI. The pair had several topics to cover in this month's conversation: Breeze Airways starts soon? The next International Flights season January to April 2025? Upcoming Disaster Preparedness drill in October? expansions/updates where do things stand? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Originally uploaded July 10th, re-edited September 30th. Chris Holman welcomes Jose Reyes, Executive Director, NPower Michigan, Detroit, MI. Can you explain what NPower Michigan is and the mission it serves? Specifically, how does the organization aim to build a talent pipeline that meets employer needs and engages the local community? Your organization focuses on enhancing workforce readiness through digital literacy and credentials. Could you describe some of the key programs or initiatives NPower Michigan offers to help individuals prepare for careers in the tech industry? How does NPower Michigan approach recruiting individuals from underserved communities? What partnerships or strategies have been particularly effective in helping young people transition from high school to further education or the workforce? Industry collaboration seems to be a significant part of your strategy. Can you provide examples of how NPower Michigan works with industries like Mobility, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Gree

Originally uploaded September 3, re-edited September 26th. Chris Holman welcomes back Teri Sand, SHRM-CP, PHR, CBSP, CRP, Business Services Manager, Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham Eaton, and Clinton Counties THEME: Teri discusses the influx of jobs moving away from degree requirements and toward skill requirements and Capital Area Michigan Works!’s role in connecting job seekers to these positions. ● According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), one in every 7 jobs in the country were filled using skill-based hiring last year. ● This approach opens up the workforce to a diverse range of capabilities and perspectives by removing a requirement that poses a barrier to many candidates who are not able to complete a degree. ● Additionally, according to Workforce Strategies, Inc. (WSI), corporations who implement skill-based requirements for careers are likely to see an increase in efficiency due to a better alignment between workforce needs and properly skilled e

Originally Uploaded August 28th, re-edited September 23rd. Chris Holman welcomes Umar Tahir, VP Marketing, Enterprise Innovation & Digital Assets, LAFCU, Lansing, MI. LAFCU's participation as the main sponsor of the Phil Denny Summer Concert, along with local artists painting the LAFCU letters at the event. LAFCU's Multi-Cultural Day celebration, where we promote DEI by encouraging employees to share their cultural traditions and practices with others (this is our second Multi-Cultural event). LAFCU's backpack giveaway for the back-to-school event. LAFCU's participation in the St. John Mint Festival. If time permits, we can also discuss the launch of Cole, our omnichannel AI-powered bot. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Originally uploaded August 27, re-edited September 22nd. Chris Holman welcomes back Lorri Rishar, CEO who is joined this time around by Aaron Bodus, lead communications strategist, EDGE Partnerships, Lansing, Marquette and Chicago. Lorri, you've added to your team again, how is EDGE finding and attracting the talent you need? Aaron, we hear you've come from a journalism background, tell us more about your career path? So, Lead Communications Strategist, tell us about that role? Lorri, will this position collaborate across your locations or focus on Lansing? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ With more details, EDGE shared this release: EDGE bolsters communications team with addition of Aaron Bodus LANSING Mich. — The EDGE Partnerships family just got a little bigger with the recent addition of

Originally uploaded August 27th, re-edited September 20th. Chris Holman welcomes Rod Sanders​​​​, Senior Business Development Manager, Convergence Networks, REO-Town, Lansing, MI Rod, remind the Michigan business community about Convergence Networks? What are you seeing right now in the IT Landscape? AI is a huge topic right now; exactly does it mean for a business to be AI-ready? When you are talking to business leaders right now what is their biggest concern? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Erin Wallace, Director of Quality Assurance, and Education, Michigan Assisted Living Association, Livonia, MI, but recording from Grand Rapids, Michigan. The topic of this conversation: Addressing the Direct Care Workforce Crisis (Training to be Offered to Strengthen Critical Workforce in Long-Term Care) Questions: 1) Michigan is working diligently to address the direct care workforce crisis for providing long-term and behavioral health care. Talk about this crisis and how it impacts us all. ERIN: Studies have shown a high percentage of staff leave their job due to dissatisfaction or conflict with their supervisor. MALA believes that by improving supervisory skills and practices, turnover rates can be reduced, and employee retention can be strengthened. A properly trained first-line supervisor will improve care outcomes and lower expenses by decreasing staff turnover. 2) A new training is being offered for first-line supervisors of direct care staff by the Michigan Assisted Living Ass

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Former Ford Engineer Opens Kona Ice Business in Waterford, Michigan - Kona Ice Franchise Owner Doug Rehkopf, Jeffrey had several questions for Doug in this conversation: -What did you do before Kona Ice? -What made you want to open Kona Ice? -Why did you choose a franchise over opening something on your own? -Tell me about Kona Ice’s involvement in the community. -What are your future growth plans? ABOUT KONA ICE Founded in 2007 by Tony Lamb, Kona Ice launched its first Kona Entertainment Vehicle (KEV) in Florence, Kentucky, offering a unique combination of cleanliness, friendliness and a one-of-a-kind experience. Today, Kona Ice has grown to more than 1,700 mobile units that serve 49 states across the country. Kona Ice has been named to Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 list for 11 consecutive years, earning a spot on the Franchise 500 Hall of Fame, and most recently being named #1 in the “Frozen Desserts” and “Ice Cream” categories. In addition, Kona was named to the Franchis

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Nora Farhat, Owner, Pool Scouts, Detroit, MI. TOPIC: Arab-American Mother & Multi-Unit Business Owner in Detroit Finds Success in Franchising Jeffrey had several questions for Nora: What did you do before franchising? Why did you choose franchising over starting your own business? What have you learned about franchising? What are the advantages/disadvantages? Why did you choose Pool Scouts/the pool industry? How has it been being a minority/female owner of multiple businesses and a mother? What advice do you have for others looking to get into business ownership/franchising? What are your goals moving forward? ABOUT POOL SCOUTS: Virginia Beach, VA-based Pool Scouts is a premier pool service franchise focused on delivering a quality, consistent brand experience while providing pool cleaning, maintenance and minor repair services at residential properties. Technicians are trained in testing, monitoring, treating and servicing pools and can provide ongoing service as well as help

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Michelle and Kier Cook, owners, TruBlue Home Service Ally, Plymouth-Canton, MI Tell us about TruBlue Home Service Ally? What made you make this entrepreneurial jump? What territory do you cover? Is this a franchise operation or just your own operation here in Michigan? Do you rely on other Michigan businesses as valued vendors to help you serve your clients? Up to Speed: About TruBlue Home Service Ally: TruBlue Home Service Ally® provides a unique and affordable approach to helping busy adults and seniors live a worry-free life by offering trustworthy handyman, home maintenance and senior modification services. Helping you maintain your home both inside and out, TruBlue’s services include handyman projects and to-do list chores, preventative home maintenance programs, kitchen and bath remodels, seasonal work, and senior modification services, all handled by professional, bonded and insured Tru-Pro® Technicians. TruBlue franchise owners are required to complete senior home safety

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Dane Ramsden, Owner, Caring Transitions he is also Chief Executive Officer at In Network Real Estate, Sterling Heights, Michigan, United States. Why This Metro-Detroit Realtor Chose to Open Caring Transitions to Supplement Services What is your background? What did you do before Caring Transitions? Why did you decide to add Caring Transitions to your portfolio? When did you open Caring Transitions? What percent of your real estate business has turned into business for Caring Transitions? Why did you choose Caring Transitions over similar concepts or opening a business from the ground up? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Vic Verchereau welcomes Emma Henry, who is the Executive Director for the Capital Area Housing Partnership. Emma Henry is the Executive Director for the Capital Area Housing Partnership, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO), and a HUD-approved local Housing Counseling Agency. Headquartered at the Neighborhood Empowerment Center on the former Michigan School for the Blind campus in Lansing, Michigan. Emma understands that each community is unique, with many populations calling it home. Her team strives to create a balance between owner-occupied and rental housing, especially in vintage neighborhoods designed for single family homes. She is committed to strong partnerships between local government, neighbors, businesses, and organizations to achieve these results. Emma Henry shares her great story with Vic Verchereau in this most recent edition of the Leadership Lowdown! Listen in now! » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe t

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Karen Mead, Co-Owner of Farmgirl Flea Market, Hudsonville, MI. Talking Points ● Farmgirl Flea Fall Market is returning for its 9th annual event, featuring over 180 vendors, primarily from Michigan. ● The market plays a crucial role in supporting Michigan's small businesses, which employ 48.3% of the state's workforce. ● Farmgirl Flea aligns with Michigan's sustainability goals by promoting vintage, upcycled, and handmade goods. ● The event has become a significant economic driver for Hudsonville and surrounding communities. ● Live music performances and a variety of food vendors enhance the community atmosphere of the market. ● Early bird tickets are available, offering access to both days of the event at a discounted price. ● Farmgirl Flea is committed to fostering a strong, sustainable local economy in West Michigan. Questions covered in this discussion: ● What inspired the creation of Farmgirl Flea, and how has it grown over the past nine years? ● How does Farmgirl Flea cont