Michigan Business Network

Chris Holman welcomes back Laketa L. Henderson, SBA Michigan District Director, Detroit, MI. National Small Business Week is coming up—what’s the significance of these awards, and what do they say about Michigan’s small business landscape? You’ll be recognizing Michigan winners in early May—what can attendees expect from that event at Macomb Community College? You’re also participating in the Made in America tour—what are you hoping to learn from visits to workforce programs and manufacturers across Michigan? Your team has been hosting roundtables with small business owners—what are you hearing about regulatory challenges, and how is the Office of Advocacy helping address those concerns? From your recent industry discussions, including with meat processors, what are the biggest barriers businesses are facing right now—especially around access to capital? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/

Chris Holman welcomes Craig Wieland, Author, Mason, MI. Craig Wieland, a Mason, Michigan-based entrepreneur, discussed his journey from starting a small construction company with his father in 1981 to growing Wieland Constructors into the fourth-largest builder in Michigan by intentionally differentiating from dominant competitors like Christman, Granger, and Clark. After retiring two years ago, Wieland channeled his decades of business experience into authorship, with his latest book "Family Business Rules: Eight Rules to Keep the Family Business from Destroying the Family" drawing on 20 real-life stories of family businesses torn apart by unresolved disputes. The book emphasizes the importance of clear succession planning, arguing that leadership should go to the most capable family member rather than a favorite, with the long-term health of the business always remaining the top priority. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Michiganbusinessn

Chris Holman welcomes Erica Luce, Manager of Adult Education, Michigan's Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, Lansing, MI. Erica Luce, Manager of Adult Education at Michigan's Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), discussed how the department serves roughly 30,000 Michiganders annually through more than 100 adult education programs statewide, helping adults earn high school diplomas or equivalencies and improve English language skills. A standout initiative is the Integrated Education and Training (IET) program, which combines academic instruction with occupation-specific training, leading to improved retention, completion rates, and better employment outcomes. LEO also partners directly with local employers to deliver on-site education services and align curriculum with in-demand skills, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready. Anyone seeking adult education services in Michigan can visit https://www.michigan.gov/leo to connect with a local provider. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganb

Chris Holman welcomes Carolyn Hurst, Executive Director, Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan, Lansing, MI. The Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan (RMHMM), located across from University of Michigan Health Sparrow in downtown Lansing, provides free lodging and amenities to families with children receiving medical treatment at local hospitals. Executive Director Carolyn Hurst discussed the "Battle for the Houses" campaign, a fundraising initiative built around the Michigan State vs. University of Michigan football rivalry, which was sparked by longtime volunteers Todd and Sarah Duckett after they personally needed to use a Ronald McDonald House. In its inaugural year, the campaign raised over $100,000 and 1,000 volunteer hours for both the Lansing and Ann Arbor houses, while reaching more than 13.5 million media impressions. The campaign was recognized globally, earning a top-five finalist spot for the Global Enhanced Collaboration Impact Award at an international conference, competing alongside chapters

Chris Holman welcomes Kevin Moran, President and Owner, Dream Machine LLC, South Lyon, MI. Kevin Moran, president and owner of Dream Machine LLC, joined Michigan Business Beat to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and two inventions he runs as lean, laptop-based businesses. His background spans engineering roles at Chrysler, working with 5-hour Energy founder Manoj Bhargava, and growing a radiation detection company from 8 to 50 employees before launching his own products. The first product, the "Oil Udder," is a magnetic funnel designed to catch oil drips when removing a car's spin-on oil filter, currently sold mainly through Amazon. His second invention, a gravity-fed dog shower attachment, aims to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs during bath time by replacing harsh spray pressure with a gentler, waterfall-like flow. Moran also participates in the Michigan Inventors Coalition Expos, where he mentors early-stage inventors on how much can be accomplished from home with minimal overhead before major investm

Chris Holman welcomes Trey Williams, CPA and Principal Director, Maner Costerisan, Lansing, MI. Trey Williams, CPA and Principal Director of Maner Costerisan — a full-service public accounting and business advisory firm headquartered in Lansing, Michigan since 1906 — appeared on Michigan Business Beat to discuss the firm's recent recognition. The company received four awards, including being named a Best Place to Work by both *Accounting Today* (for the ninth year) and *Crain's Detroit*, as well as being selected among the top firms in Inside Public Accounting's survey of companies with over $10 million in revenue. Williams attributed these honors to the firm's culture of investing in employee well-being and career development, which in turn drives strong client service and low turnover. The firm's stated mission is "enabling others to reach their potential" — encompassing both their team and their clients, as well as giving back to the community. Williams also briefly noted that significant IRS and tax chan

Chris Holman welcomes Meghan Ziehmer, Executive Director, Lansing Sports Commission, Lansing, MI. The Lansing Sports Commission, a division of Choose Lansing, serves as the region's sports tourism organization by soliciting, creating, and fully operating sporting events — distinguishing itself from typical destination marketing organizations by being hands-on with event logistics. Summer 2024 was exceptionally active, highlighted by MHSAA finals in baseball, softball, and soccer, a USA play national championship that drew roughly 2,000 participants and 8,000 spectators, and numerous other events nearly every weekend. Fall is shaping up to be equally busy, with upcoming events including the Spartan Invitational cross country meet (3,000 participants), the Capital Area Autumn Classic soccer tournament (3,500 players), chaos softball, and the Capital City River Run. Executive Director Meghan Ziehmer emphasized the significant economic impact these roughly 9,000 visiting athletes have on the greater Lansing regi

Originally uploaded April 17th, reloaded April 24th. Chris Holman welcomes back Carrie Rosingana, CEO, CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties. 1. Now that legislative Spring Break is over, the budget season soon begins in earnest. What's at the top of CAMW!'s wish list? 2. Why is CAMW! and the Michigan Works! Association prioritizing Medicaid work requirement assistance? 3. You're also hoping to see funding for Registered Apprenticeships. How is that funding applied? 4. Going PRO Talent Fund took a pretty big hit in last year's budget, and the governor didn't include it in her recommendation this year. Are you hopeful that it will be retained/put back, and why or why not? 5. Budget crafting is also going on at the federal level. Is there anything from that sphere you'd like to share? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » F

Chris Holman welcomes Jason Mellema, Superintendent. Ingham Intermediate School District, Mason, MI. From a community and economic standpoint, what impact would a nearly $100 million investment in special education facilities have on the region? Why is now the right time to replace or upgrade facilities like the Beekman Center and Heartwood School, rather than continue maintaining older buildings? How does investing in safer, more accessible, and modern learning environments translate into better long-term outcomes for students and the workforce? For taxpayers and business leaders, how should they think about the cost, like the estimated $55 per year on a $200,000 home, relative to the long-term benefits? What opportunities does this bond create for local contractors, suppliers, and economic activity during construction and beyond? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MB

Chris Holman welcomes Madeline Whitford, Director of Property Management, Martin Commercial Properties, Lansing, MI. April 2026's discussion dives into "property management". For a business owner, what does “property management” actually include day-to-day, and how hands-on is your team? How do your property management services help companies control costs while maintaining or improving their facilities? What role does property management play in keeping tenants satisfied and occupancy rates high in commercial buildings? How do you coordinate between leasing, maintenance, and financial services to support a property’s long-term performance? For companies with multiple locations or properties, how can professional property management improve efficiency and reduce risk? » 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/m

Chris Holman welcomes back Jason Cords, Executive Manager, Shaheen Chevrolet, Shaheen Cadillac, Lansing, MI. There were several questions he wanted to cover with Jason in this conversation: For today’s customers, how do you balance vehicle sales, financing, and service to deliver a full “one-stop” automotive experience? How does having a large inventory and service capacity help you stay competitive in the Mid-Michigan auto market? What role do after-sales services like maintenance, inspections, and protection plans play in building long-term customer relationships and revenue? How do you create a premium, “luxury-level” customer experience across sales, financing, and service to stand out in a competitive auto market? How is Cadillac’s growing EV lineup, like the Cadillac Lyriq and Cadillac Escalade IQ, changing customer demand and dealership strategy today? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook

Chrtis Holman welcomes back Ben Bakken, CFP®, CEPA®, Senior VP, Lansing Market Director, Tri-Star Trust Bank, Lansing, MI. This is Segment 2 [Ben launching his show, by MBN tradition turns the tables and interviews Chris for his mini-series]: Welcome, Chris. So, now that you've heard the topic, where was the business community regarding this issue back in the 1980s? What changes have you seen in the issue over the years? In 2026, based on your experience, where are things going and trending to? Is the business community focused closely enough on this topic? » 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/

Chris Holman welcomes back Ben Bakken, CFP®, CEPA®, Senior VP, Lansing Market Director, Tri-Star Trust Bank, Lansing, MI. Segment 1 [Chris welcomes Ben for his mini-series (The Owner's Game Plan)]: Welcome back, Ben. Remind us about Tri-Star Trust Bank. Could you share about your career path? So, you will be hosting an upcoming mini-series for Michigan Business Network. Tell us about that? Why is it crucial for the business community to understand this topic better in 2026? Any guests or core subtopics you can let us in on at this point? » 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/

Chris Holman welcomes back Joe Finkler, inventor, mentor, and board member of Michigan Inventors Coalition, Grand Rapids, MI. What is the Michigan Inventors Summit, and why is it important for entrepreneurs and innovators across the state? Can you talk about Paula Macpherson’s role as Chair of MIC2026 and the impact her leadership brings to this year’s summit as you celebrate your 14th year? For someone with a new product idea, what value does attending this event provide in terms of turning that idea into a business? The “Spin, Pitch, & Sell” competition is a big highlight, what opportunities does it create for inventors looking to grow or gain exposure? What are the biggest challenges inventors face when bringing a product to market, and how does this summit help address them? How does the Michigan Inventors Coalition support long-term business growth and strengthen Michigan’s innovation economy? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Michiganbus

Chris Holman welcomes back Suzanne Greenberg, CEO/Executive Director of Children Trust Michigan, Lansing, MI. Children Trust Michigan has been working to keep kids safe for almost 45 years, but some folks may not be entirely familiar with your efforts. Can you give our listeners a quick picture of what the organization does and why the work of child abuse prevention matters? April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. How has Children Trust Michigan been raising awareness, and what message do you most want Michigan families, businesses, and community leaders to take away from your efforts? Research consistently shows that investing in childhood wellbeing pays dividends for community health and economic vitality down the road. How can Michigan businesses play a meaningful role in strengthening families? Next month, you have another big event coming up. The Pam Posthumus Signature Auction is one of the state’s most anticipated philanthropic occasions. What makes this auction so important to the mission of Childr

Chris Holman welcomes back Alexander S. Rusek, Shareholder, Foster Swift Attorneys, Lansing, 5 branches across MI. What does this ruling mean for how businesses and employees should use AI tools when dealing with legal or sensitive matters? If employees are using AI platforms like Claude or ChatGPT, what risks could that create for confidentiality and legal protection? How should companies update their policies or training to prevent accidental loss of attorney-client privilege? Does this decision change how business leaders should think about using AI for strategy, problem-solving, or internal discussions? What practical steps can organizations take right now to safely use AI without exposing themselves to legal or compliance risks? » 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/

Recording Date: March 25, 2026 Location: Capital Region International Airport (LAN) Rick Snyder - CEO at SensCy Gateway, Avalon, Ardesta, State of Michigan Rick Snyder served two terms as Governor of Michigan from 2011-2018. He led an economically depressed bottom 10 state to top-10 status in eight years. Michigan became a national and regional leader in private sector job creation and increases in per capita income. He was responsible for restructuring Detroit, which was critical to enabling its great comeback. Multiple other major economic, educational, infrastructure, cybersecurity and quality of life programs were implemented during tenure. Rick also founded two $100 million venture capital investment firms – Avalon Investments and Ardesta. Successful exits included Health Media, HandiLab and Esperion. Snyder previously served as chairman and president of Gateway which was a leading PC company. During his six years working at Gateway, it grew from 600 to 13,000 employees and $600mm to $6 billion in r

Chris Holman speaks with Larry Johnson Sr., founder of Brotherhood Against Drugs and Magic of Literacy in Lansing, Michigan. Larry shares his powerful personal journey and how it led him to dedicate more than three decades to helping individuals overcome addiction, rebuild their lives, and find hope through recovery. His organization works with individuals in jails, prisons, and the broader community to shift mindsets and create new opportunities. The conversation also highlights Magic of Literacy, a newer initiative focused on improving reading skills among young students. Larry explains how early intervention—especially at the critical third-grade level—can dramatically improve long-term academic outcomes. He also discusses partnerships with local schools and the goal of expanding these programs across Lansing, along with the ongoing need for community support, funding, and engagement. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMB

Chris Holman welcomes back Payton Heins, President and CEO, Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, Boyne City, MI. Welcome back, Payton. Share who the NLEA is/what you do? The NLEA produces bi-annual snapshots [Economic Pulse Reports] of the top issues you're hearing from business leaders across your region. Could you share key takeaways from the most recent report? And, how are you preparing for the next Spring release? Tell us about the upcoming Economic Symposium at Boyne Mountain on May 15? » 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/ Global Economic Leader David Malpass to Keynote 2026 Economic Symposium at Boyne Mountain Resort Tickets Now on Sale for May 15 Event Highlighting Northern Michigan’s Economic Future Northern Michigan — The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) is proud to announce

Chris Holman welcomes back Erin Kaylor, President of BIGGBY® COFFEE, East Lansing, MI. Welcome back Erin, BIGGBY was recently ranked the #2 coffee chain nationally. What do you think drove that recognition? You’ve managed to stand out in a very crowded coffee market. What is BIGGBY doing differently from competitors? Your brand recently went through a visual refresh. What was the strategy behind that, and what impact are you seeing so far? BIGGBY has talked about a goal of becoming a $1 billion company by 2028. What does that growth roadmap look like? As a Michigan-based company gaining national attention, what lessons can other businesses take from your growth and branding strategy? » 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/ Erin Kaylor, President of BIGGBY® COFFEE, joined Chris to discuss the Ea