Michigan Business Network

Chris Holman welcomes Eric Rosekrans, CCIM, Executive Vice President, Martin Commercial Properties, and Thomas Jamieson, Martin Commercial Properties, Lansing, MI. This discussion is the second of three with Martin Commercial Properties team, and focuses on their Office Advisory. These were the questions they cover in this conversation: Office Advisory: Office vacancy remains at a 20-year high. What strategies are landlords and tenants using to adapt to shifting work models and excess space? Smaller occupies are leading leasing activity—what types of businesses are driving this demand, and how does it shape the future of office space design? Given recent sales in the office sector, what trends are emerging given the buyers of these buildings? These interviews grow out of a series of three recent reports recently released by the company. You can access them at: https://martincommercial.com/marketinsights/ . Office '24 Market Insights: "OFFICE ‘24 Market Insights Greater Lansing Area, Michigan | H2 2024"

Chris Holman welcomes Carson Patten, Vice President, Retail Advisor, Martin Commercial Properties, and Samantha Le, Senior Associate, Retail Advisor, Martin Commercial Properties, This discussion is the third of three with Martin Commercial Properties team, and focuses on their Retail Advisory. These were the questions they cover in this conversation: Retail Advisory: Retail vacancy rates have dropped slightly despite economic pressures—what types of retail businesses are thriving, and what’s driving this resilience? We’ve seen significant growth in build-to-suit developments. How are developers and retailers working together to create spaces that meet evolving consumer demands? With the influx of new eateries and some notable closures, how do you foresee the balance between new openings and vacancies playing out in the next year? These interviews grow out of a series of three recent reports recently released by the company. You can access them at: https://martincommercial.com/marketinsights/ . Retail

Chris Holman welcomes back Quentin Messer, Jr. ,Chief Executive Officer and President and Chair of the Michigan Strategic Fund MEDC, Detroit, MI. Chris had several things he wanted to find out from Quentin in this conversation: The more than $500,000 in RAP funding to redevelop 9301 Oakland Ave. is a significant investment in the city’s future. Can you talk about why this project was selected for this funding and how it will transform Detroit’s North End? What role do you see Detroit playing in Michigan’s broader economic landscape in the years to come? How does the RAP initiative align with MEDC’s broader mission of helping people "Make it in Michigan"? Looking ahead to 2025, what strategic priorities will MEDC focus on to continue driving economic growth in Michigan? How does MEDC plan to support Michigan’s small businesses and entrepreneurs in the coming year? Can you discuss the importance of inclusive economic development and how MEDC ensures opportunities are accessible to all Michiganders? Gover

[Kim Bode / 8ThirtyFour Integrated Communications' spotlight, participant in SBAM's Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship] Chris Holman welcomes Nancy Marshall, Owner of Marshall Sales Incorporated, Detroit area, MI. This is the first of four interviews in a series. There were several questions Chris wanted to find out from Nancy: What makes your business unique? What are the biggest things you’ve learned as a woman business owner? How did you learn about the SBAM fellowship? Why did you decide to apply? How did you feel when you heard you were accepted? What are the biggest things you learned from the fellowship? Small Business Association of Michigan Foundation Announces Inaugural Women's Entrepreneurial Fellowship New Program Addresses Multiple Challenges for Second-Stage, Women-Owned Businesses LANSING, Mich. – The SBAM Foundation (SBAMF), supported by its parent organization, the Small Business Association of Michigan, has launched its Women's Entrepreneurial Fellowship (WEF) program and chosen 11 busin

Vic Verchereau welcomes Jon Weirauch, who is a Speaker and Coach at Rick Olson Seminars. Jon D. Weirauch continues to build upon the excellent work that Rick Olson Seminars has done for years, including some new approaches and offerings. From keynote speeches to large and small group workshops to 1 on 1 coaching, Jon finds his passion in his mission to utilize the workplace as a force for good. He works closely with employees of all levels and with many diverse teams to motivate them and help them use their power and influence to achieve greatness. He is blessed beyond measure to have the support of his lovely wife and two beautiful daughters. Jon says, "I have been through countless training, classes, and seminars, including a Masters Degree program. The Rick Olson Speaking School stands out as one of the most rewarding learning experiences of my life." Jon shares so many key thoughts and great insight with host Vic Verchereau on this edition of the Leadership Lowdown! If you are looking for your "hi

January 14, re-edited March 5th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Carrie Rosingana, CEO CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing MI, but serving Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties. THEME: Capital Area Michigan Works! CEO Carrie Rosingana highlights the CAMW! staff and board members who received award recognition at the December 2024 board meeting. Question: At last month’s board meeting, Capital Area Michigan Works! recognized board members and staff who have shown outstanding contributions to our region's workforce. Can you tell us about the distinguished Leonard Peters Award and its 2024 recipients? Leonard Peters served on the Capital Area Michigan Works! Administrative Board from 1985 to 2008 as an Eaton County Commissioner, a commitment spanning over two decades of board service. Question: Two other individuals also received the Workforce Champion Award in 2024. What does this award embody, and who were the recipients? We created the Workforce Champion Award many years ago to celebrate board member

Originally uploaded December 26, re-edited February 19th. Jeffrey Mosher 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: Capital Area Michigan Works! Business Services Manager Teri Sand discusses the importance of Registered Apprenticeships, particularly in the healthcare field, and how CAMW! supports the development of healthcare apprenticeships in the region. Question: What are Registered Apprenticeships and what challenges do they help address in the workforce? Registered Apprenticeships are structured, industry-driven career pathways that provide individuals with classroom instruction and a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates their skills and qualifications. They are a valuable alternative to traditional education routes like college degrees, as they provide a direct route to meaningful careers and provide on-the-job learning in a variety of career fields. The

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Patricia Dockery, executive director of Stafford House, Inc., Detroit, MI. There were several things he wanted to find out from Patricia in this conversation: ● Can you share a bit about the vision for the redevelopment of the 9301 Oakland Avenue property in Detroit's North End? ● What role did the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Revialization and Placemaking grant program play in bringing this project to life? ● Creating affordable housing is a key aspect of this project. How does this redevelopment address the need for housing and why was that important? ● How do you see the plans for 5,200 square feet of commercial space supporting small business growth in the North End and Detroit as a whole? ● The press release mentions plans for workforce development and technology training within the commercial space. Can you share more about what that will look like? Additional information from the Michigan press release: Governor Whitmer Announces More Housing, Space

Originally Uploaded January 28th, reloaded March 2nd For Media Business Episode 82: Tony Conley has a three-part conversation with Michael Martinez, who covers Ford Motor Co. and the UAW for Automotive News. - Tell us about how the Ford Electric Mustang outsold the gasoline Mustang for the first time ever? - How were Ford's 2024 sales? - Ford had a record year for EV & Hybrid sales, give us the details. -Tell us about the new Expedition & Navigator models. Tony Conley and Michael Martinez discussed the automotive industry, focusing on Ford's sales of electric vehicles and the impact of the Trump administration's policies. They also explored the shift in consumer preferences towards larger crossover SUVs and the challenges Ford faced with the Mustang's production. Lastly, they discussed Ford's strong sales in 2024, driven by electric vehicle sales and hybrids, and the upcoming redesigned Expedition and Navigator SUVs. • Ford to continue promoting and selling the Mustang Mach-E, capitalizing on its strong sa

Originally uploaded December 23rd, re-edited February 27th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Julie Lowenthal, Program and Advocacy Specialist, AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services (Area Agency on Aging), Southfield, MI. Questions 1. Can you help listeners understand the scope of unpaid caregiving in Michigan and what this means for our workforce? 2. How are rising costs and inflation specifically impacting family caregivers across Michigan? 3. We're seeing healthcare worker shortages forcing many people to reduce work hours or leave their jobs entirely. What impact is this having on Michigan families? 4. What specific programs does AgeWays offer to help families manage these pressures? 5. How can employers better support their employees who are juggling work and caregiving responsibilities? 6. As we head into the holiday season, what should families be discussing about caregiving plans? 7. What solutions do you see on the horizon to prevent caregiving from becoming an economic hardship for more Michigan fami

Originally uploaded November 26, re-edited February 18th. Jeffrey Mosher 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: In light of Veteran’s Day, Capital Area Michigan Works! Business Services Manager Teri Sand gives an overview of the veteran support services CAMW! provides and the importance of aiding veterans in their job searches. Question: What barriers might veterans face when looking for a job? ● The shift from military to civilian life can be challenging, as veterans may struggle to translate military skills into civilian job qualifications or find jobs they feel a meaningful connection to. ○ According to the U.S. Department of Veterans, some barriers veterans may experience when reentering the workforce include: ■ Learning how to look for, apply or interview for a civilian job, especially if they have never done so before. Question: Why is it important to specifical

Originally Uploaded January 20th, reloaded February 26th For Media Business Episode 82: Tony Conley has a three-part conversation welcoming back Patrick DeHaan GasBuddy.com oil/gasoline analyst, fact checker and myth buster. What are the current gas prices in Michigan? What do you expect gas price wise in Michigan for 1st quarter 2025. What will the Trump administration mean for the petroleum industry? What is the latest news on the Keystone Pipeline? Tony Conley and Patrick DeHaan discussed the current state of gas prices in Michigan and the national average, with a focus on the potential for sub-$3 prices in the coming weeks. They also explored the challenges faced by refineries, the potential impacts of President Trump's policies on the petroleum industry, and the benefits of deregulation in the oil and gas sector. Lastly, they reminisced about their 16-year journey together and emphasized the importance of exploration for future energy production. Michigan Gas Prices and National Trends Tony Conley

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Kai Bowman, co-founder of the Michigan Black Business Alliance, Detroit, and who has recently announced he is leaving the organization to launch a new strategic consulting firm called Clutch Consulting. The firm will help established businesses statewide think bigger and bolder. What is Clutch Consulting and what inspired you to start your own business? What are some of the services and support Clutch provides for businesses and entrepreneurs? You’re not new to working in this space. You’re the co-founder of the Michigan Black Business Alliance and during the NFL Draft, you helped minority businesses secure $12 million in contracts. How do you hope to replicate this success across Michigan? How does Clutch Consulting differentiate itself from other strategic consulting firms in Michigan? Where can people learn more about your work and get involved? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.fa

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Alyssa Watts, Marketing Coordinator for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Detroit, and Mena Davis, Executive Director & Founder of All Things Women Inc., Detroit, MI. Alyssa, Mena welcome, remind our Michigan business community briefly about both of your organizations? Tell us about your big announcement from Tuesday? Dig a little deeper, please discuss the impact it will have on local women and families in need. So there was already a three year partnership before this, tell us a bit about that. Anything else we should know? On Tuesday, February 11, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Detroit is teaming up with All Things Women Inc. to help the nonprofit move into a larger facility—expanding their ability to provide emergency shelter and vital services to local women and families in crisis. Would you be interested in covering this partnership for the move? This interview discusses the impact it will have on local women and families in need. Since 2018, All Things Women Inc. has impacted more than 2,500

Vic Verchereau welcomes Patrick O’Keefe, who is the Founder and CEO of O’Keefe. Patrick M. O’Keefe is the Founder and CEO of O’Keefe, a transactional strategic and financial advisory firm. Mr. O’Keefe is recognized as an expert in the fields of strategic advisory services, corporate reorganization, turnaround consulting, valuation, and litigation support. Recently Pat's organization was honored with two key awards. The “Turnaround Award (under $100MM)” for the successful turnaround of an injection molding and glass encapsulation manufacturing company. O’Keefe was able to secure price increases, develop a turnaround strategy and revise the capital structure to support the plan and prevent the company from liquidation which saved not only a 20+ year business, but numerous jobs. The second award for “Restructuring Community Impact Award” at Finlandia University. A University started for Finnish immigrants who came to Michigan for copper mining jobs, and by a mission pastor of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran C

Chris Holman welcomes back Carrie Rosingana, CEO of CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham Eaton and Clinton Counties. Their theme for February 2025: Capital Area Michigan Works! CEO Carrie Rosingana discusses the Capital Area Child Care Coalition and their new website, which now includes functions to connect businesses and families with important child care resources. Question: Why is accessible and affordable child care important to families, employees and employers? ● Access to quality, affordable childcare is a barrier for many working adults and families today. ● Research shows unaffordable and non-available child care causes a decrease in employment retainment, increased stress on working parents and decreased workforce efficiency. ○ According to American Progress, child care is the work that supports all other work by enabling parents to participate in the workforce. Among parents who are not working full-time, 3 in 5 say they would choose to do so if they had access to

Originally uploaded December 17th, re-edited February 14th. Chris Holman welcomes back Ara Topouzian, Executive Director, MVCA, the Michigan Venture Capital Association, operating virtually, across all of Michigan. There were several things Chris wanted to find out during their conversation: Welcome back Ara, remind the Michigan business community about the MVCA? What have the highlights been for 2024? What are the current trends for venture capital in Michigan? What are the goals and events MVCA is looking forward to in 2025? For your convenience, Here are more details coming out of October's awards event: Michigan Venture Capital Association Celebrates 17th Entrepreneurial & Investment Successes at 2024 Annual Awards Event Eight Organizations & Individuals Honored for Contributions to Michigan’s Entrepreneurial Community Bloomfield Hills, Mich. – October 10, 2024 – The Michigan Venture Capital Association (MVCA) celebrated the state’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem at its 2024 Annual Awards Cele

Originally uploaded December 24, re-edited February 12th Chris Holman welcomes back Glenn Stevens Jr., Executive Director of MICHauto and Vice President of Automotive and Mobility Initiatives at the Detroit Regional Chamber, Detroit, MI. Welcome back Glenn please share some highlights from your 2024 MichAuto State of the Industry event? Among MichAuto's focus has been The Journey Through Legislation to Reduce Distracted Driving in Michigan, tell us about that? Talent has been another focus for MichAuto, what processes or projects highlight your efforts for this? What's the highlight of 2024? Anything in store for 2025 that you can share? » 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/

Originally uploaded July 8th, re-edited February 7th. A Mackinac Policy Conference interview that ended up postponed until late June. Chris Holman welcomes Venessa Keesler, Ph.D., President & CEO, Launch Michigan. In their conversation Chris wanted to find several things out from Vanessa: What is Launch Michigan? I understand Business Leaders for Michigan's CEO Jeff Donofrio is your board chair, speak briefly to the board's role? What is the state of K-12 education in Michigan? How are we doing? What can we do to improve? Why should the business community care about improving our K-12 education system? What can listeners do to stay informed or get involved? » 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/ Detroit Regional Chamber, Business Leaders for Michigan, and Small Business Association of

Originally uploaded July 1st, video glitch fixed and replaced February 5th. Chris Holman welcomes back Mark A. Williams, President, MCDC, Michigan Certified Development Corporation, East Lansing, MI. In their conversation, Chris had several things he wanted to find out from Mark; What’s new with MCDC? Mark reviewed their new loan product, Community Advantage, and discussed what it is, why/how it differs from a bank or credit union SBA 7(a) loan. On 504 loans (Mark gave a brief description of the difference between 504 and 7(a)) we also have an Express product which he describes the advantages They touch on some history for MCDC, as they were about to achieve some milestones in loan volume (within the next year)? 2,500 loans, $1.5Bn in SBA loans, $4Bn in total economic impact What industries we are seeing the most activity in? Hotels, franchise restaurants, manufacturing As 504 loans require a bank or credit union, who are MCDC partnering