
Michigan Business Network
Business & Economics Podcasts
The Home of Business in Michigan. Get on-demand access to audio programs, articles and resources presented by savvy business leaders and industry experts.
Location:
United States
Description:
The Home of Business in Michigan. Get on-demand access to audio programs, articles and resources presented by savvy business leaders and industry experts.
Language:
English
Episodes
Michigan Business Beat | Craig Wieland, Author, Family Business Rules
4/30/2026
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/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/
Duration:00:06:37
Michigan Business Beat | Erica Luce, LEO, Topic Title
4/30/2026
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.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/
Duration:00:06:14
Michigan Business Beat | Carolyn Hurst, Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan, Fundraising
4/30/2026
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 from Canada, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Ukraine, and Australia. » 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/
Duration:00:06:23
Michigan Business Beat | Kevin Moran, Dream Machine LLC, Inventing
4/29/2026
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 investment is needed. » 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/
Duration:00:06:11
Michigan Business Beat | Trey Williams, Maner Costerisan, Tax Changes
4/29/2026
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 changes are expected, promising to return to the show to walk clients and listeners through the details. » 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/
Duration:00:05:40
Michigan Business Beat | Meghan Ziehmer, Lansing Sports Commission, Tourism
4/29/2026
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 region through hotel stays, dining, and local spending. Looking ahead, the Commission is optimistic about 2025 and 2026, with several major event announcements pending, though the sports booking window tends to be shorter than other industries. » 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/
Duration:00:06:11
Michigan Business Beat | Carrie Rosingana, CAMW!, Budget Priorities and Workforce Funding Outlook
4/24/2026
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 » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/
Duration:00:06:54
Michigan Business Beat | Jason Mellema Ingham ISD Special Ed. Bond Vote May 5th & Economic Impact
4/24/2026
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 MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/
Duration:00:06:55
Michigan Business Beat | Madeline Whitford, Martin Commercial Properties, 2026 Property Management
4/24/2026
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/mibiznetwork/
Duration:00:06:32
Michigan Business Beat | Jason Cords, Shaheen Chevrolet & Cadillac, Customer Experience & EV Growth
4/24/2026
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.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/
Duration:00:07:15
Michigan Business Beat | Ben Bakken Pt 2, Launching The Owner's Game Plan Miniseries
4/24/2026
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/
Duration:00:07:07
Michigan Business Beat | Ben Bakken Pt 1, The Owner's Game Plan Mini-Series Preview!
4/24/2026
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/
Duration:00:07:04
Michigan Business Beat | Joe Finkler, Michigan Inventors Coalition, 14th Summit & Innovation Growth
4/24/2026
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/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/
Duration:00:06:41
Michigan Business Beat | Suzanne Greenberg, Children Trust Michigan, Auction Impact Protect Children
4/24/2026
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 Children Trust Michigan? Each year, the Auction features a unique Mission Moment. Can you explain to listeners what that is and the impact it has? For listeners who want to get involved, whether as individuals, organizations, or corporate partners. What are the best ways to support prevention efforts throughout the year? » 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/
Duration:00:06:53
Michigan Business Beat | Alexander Rusek, Foster Swift: AI Risks, Impacts Attorney- Client Privilege
4/24/2026
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/
Duration:00:07:24
MBN Speaker Series | Rick Snyder - CEO at SensCy
4/24/2026
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 revenue. His career began at Coopers & Lybrand where he rose to partner in six years where he did tax and mergers and acquisitions services. He has been actively involved in many non-profits, including service as the first chair of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Ann Arbor Spark. For information about SensCy® go to: https://senscy.com/about/ View Presentation PDF https://michiganbusinessnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/Combined_Presentation_Rick_Snyder_2026-03-25.pdf The SensCy Score® To schedule your SensCy Score™ go to: https://senscy.com/the-senscy-score/ » Visit MBN website: http://www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: http://www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: http://twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/
Duration:01:00:34
Michigan Business Beat | Larry Johnson Sr., Brotherhood Against Drugs, Catching Up & Changing Lives
4/24/2026
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/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/
Duration:00:06:39
Michigan Business Beat | Payton Heins, NLEA, Key Insights and Upcoming May 15th Economic Symposium!
4/24/2026
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 that David Malpass, former President of the World Bank, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Economic Symposium, taking place May 15 from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Boyne Mountain Resort. Tickets are now on sale for both individual attendees and full table reservations, offering businesses, organizations, and community leaders an opportunity to engage in one of Northern Michigan’s premier economic events. Attendees will have an opportunity to discuss and influence economic growth, while networking with fellow private and public sector leaders from around the region. Born and raised in Northern Michigan, Malpass is excited to bring his global expertise home to support the region’s continued economic growth and resilience. A globally recognized leader in international finance and economic policy, Malpass brings decades of experience across government, global institutions, and the private sector. He currently serves as Distinguished Fellow in International Finance with Purdue University, based in Indiana and Washington, D.C. Malpass led the World Bank from 2019 to 2023, guiding the institution through unprecedented global challenges, including pandemic response and economic recovery efforts worldwide. Prior to that role, he served as U.S. Treasury Undersecretary for International Affairs from 2017 to 2019. His career also includes 24 years as a leading Wall Street economist and columnist with Forbes and The Wall Street Journal. “Having a leader of David’s caliber join us underscores the significance of this year’s Symposium,” said Sam Bailey, Strategic Initiatives Manager. “His perspective on global markets, economic development, and long-term growth will provide valuable insight for businesses, policymakers, and community leaders across our region.” This year’s theme of the Economic Symposium is “Made, Grown, and Built in Northern Michigan,” highlighting the foundational industries that power the region’s prosperity while exploring strategies for sustainable growth in a changing global economy. To purchase tickets or reserve a full table, visit https://thenlea.com/calendar/2026-economic-symposium/ About the NLEA The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance is a nonprofit regional economic development organization. NLEA’s mission is to drive economic resiliency by ensuring the resources, infrastructure, and policies exist to fuel business growth and community prosperity in Northern Michigan. For more information about the NLEA, visit www.thenlea.com
Duration:00:06:54
Michigan Business Beat | Erin Kaylor, BIGGBY COFFEE, From Michigan Brand to National Powerhouse
4/24/2026
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 East Lansing-based brand’s recent national recognition as the #2 best coffee chain. It is a massive milestone for the brand, as they outranked major industry players including Starbucks, Dunkin’, Dutch Bros, and Caribou Coffee. BIGGBY earned this coveted spot following their 30th anniversary, which included a strategic visual identity refresh. This evolution is designed to differentiate the brand in a crowded category as they make strides toward becoming a $1 billion company by 2028. Erin can also share more insights into: How BIGGBY is successfully disrupting the coffee category. The strategy behind their recent rebrand and "Making it Better" philosophy. What the roadmap to $1 billion looks like for a Michigan-born business. BIGGBY® COFFEE Named No. 2 Best Coffee Chain in the Nation by USA Today The people have spoken — BIGGBY® COFFEE tops Starbucks, Dunkin’, Dutch Bros and Caribou in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. EAST LANSING, Mich. — BIGGBY® COFFEE(goes to new website), the 450-plus unit high-energy coffee franchise, has officially been named the No. 2 Best Coffee Chain(goes to new website) in the United States by USA Today’s10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards(goes to new website). The brand ranked above major national players including Starbucks, Dunkin’, Dutch Bros, Scooter’s and Caribou Coffee. The annual USA Today poll recognizes the most beloved coffee brands across the nation, with nominations and rankings determined by coffee lovers and readers nationwide. BIGGBY® COFFEE’s ranking highlights its growing reputation as a franchise built on connection, community and consistency — not just caffeine. “We’re beyond honored to see BIGGBY® COFFEE(goes to new website) recognized among the top coffee chains in the country — and even more proud that this ranking comes from our guests,” said President Erin Kaylor(goes to new website). “This isn’t just a win for our brand; it’s a win for every barista, franchise owner and community that has embraced our mission to make the world a better place, one cup at a time.” Since opening its first shop in East Lansing, Michigan, in 1995, BIGGBY® has built its success on simple values: to build communities where people feel connected, valued, uplifted and inspired. The 100% franchise-owned brand continues to expand nationwide while staying rooted in its purpose-driven approach — to create a world where people are energized by purpose, connected by community, and uplifted through everyday interactions. “This recognition validates what our customers and franchise owners already know — BIGGBY® COFFEE is different,” said CEO Mike McFall(goes to new website). “We’ve never chased trends or corporate metrics. We’ve focused on people, and people are the reason we’re here. We’re grateful to everyone who voted and continues to share in our journey.” For more information on BIGGBY® COFFEE or franchise opportunities, visit www.biggby.com.
Duration:00:06:39
Michigan Business Beat | Julie Staveland, EGLE - Michigan Home Energy Roadmap & Economic Impact
4/23/2026
Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Julie Staveland, Assistant Division Director for the Materials Management Division, EGLE, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes & Energy, For those who may not be familiar, what is Michigan’s “Clean, Safe and Affordable” Home Energy Roadmap, and why is it important for Michigan right now? How will more energy-efficient and all-electric homes help lower monthly costs for families? The roadmap highlights major health benefits. How does the way we power our homes impact public health? What does this plan mean for Michigan’s economy and job growth moving forward? » 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/ ‘Clean, Safe, and Affordable’ guide addresses health, cost savings, decarbonization A new policy roadmap lays out plans to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from Michigan’s residential building sector by 2050 while creating jobs, improving safety, and lowering utility bills. And the real payoff could come in lives saved and life-threatening illnesses avoided. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) released “Clean, Safe, and Affordable: A Policy Roadmap for Efficient and All-Electric Homes in Michigan” to provide policy recommendations for energy efficiency and building electrification, charting a course to meet statewide building decarbonization goals. It's predicted to avert more than 2,800 premature deaths and nearly 39,000 asthma attacks a year, according to the Energy Policy Simulator, a publicly available modeling tool developed by Rocky Mountain Institute and Energy Innovation. The roadmap builds on the foundation established by Michigan’s Home Energy Rebates (MiHER) program, which is delivering federally funded energy efficiency and electrification upgrades to income-qualified households across the state. While MiHER accelerates improvements in eligible homes today, the policy roadmap outlines long-term strategies needed to extend similar benefits across Michigan’s entire housing stock — including market-rate homes, rental properties, and new construction. The roadmap serves as a key implementation strategy for the state’s MI Healthy Climate Plan, which sets a goal of economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050. Because residential buildings account for a significant share of Michigan’s greenhouse gas emissions, transforming how homes are heated, cooled, and powered is essential to meeting statewide climate targets. For example, the roadmap sets a goal of installing 2.8 million heat pumps for residential heating by 2040. Heat pumps offer high efficiency, lower operating costs, and environmental benefits. The roadmap outlines policy recommendations including updated building codes, expanded financing tools, improved electric rate design, workforce development strategies, and coordinated utility programs to ensure a just and equitable transition for Michigan residents. Enacting its recommendations is predicted to create more than 160,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2050. “Clean energy in our homes is about more than carbon reduction — it’s about protecting public health and lowering costs for Michigan families,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos. “Michigan is already putting this vision into action through programs like MiHER,” said Julie Staveland, assistant director of EGLE’s Materials Management Division. “This roadmap ensures we don’t stop there. It provides a clear path to scale energy efficiency and electrification across all homes in Michigan — lowering costs for families while protecting public health and the climate.”
Duration:00:05:05