Michigan Reimagined
Business & Finance
About
Michigan Reimagined tells the stories of people and organizations who are driving Michigan’s economic sustainability. Chris believes that Michigan residents often lead with an apology for the shortcomings of this fabulous state, and he thinks that is unnecessary. Every city has its perks and problems. Instead of complaining about what we don’t have, healthier behavior is finding those doing great work and giving them a platform to share their results. Whether it’s new restaurants, housing stock, talent retention, transportation innovation, tourism, development incentives, placemaking or arts – this state is full of passionate people in action. Hear their stories in 15 minute, deep-dive interviews on Michigan Reimagined.
Episodes
- Mackinac Series - David Jurcak of The Grand Hotel
- Lansing’s Old Town Commercial Association Celebrates 30 Years Building Vibrancy
Most urban areas have nodes of density & vibrancy that set them apart from the city as a whole. Lansing’s Old Town is one such node. Joining Chris to share the mission and successes of the now 30 year old organization is Old Town Commercia…
- Lansing Regional Population Study Shows Growth But Is It Enough?
Michigan, and mid-Michigan have been virtually flat in population for decades. A recent study shows that Michigan is projected to shrink, while the Lansing region is slated to grow. But is the news encouraging? Joining Chris to share impor…
- MidMichigan Environmental Action Council Works Tirelessly to Better Our Ecology
MidMichigan Environmental Action Council (MidMEAC) Executive Director Theresa Lark and Board President Dennis Louney discuss their organization
- Lansing Growth Fund Brings New Community-Based Investment Opportunity for Local Development Project
The Holmes & Pleasant Grove project in Lansing introduces a new community-based investment opportunity. Lansing Growth Fund members Brent Forsberg and Melissa Hall discuss the project's vision and strategy.
- Ovation Music and Arts Venue Progresses in Downtown Lansing
The Ovation, a new music and arts venue in downtown Lansing, is progressing with the collaboration of multiple organizations. Founding Director Dominic Cochran provides an update on recent developments.
- Lansing Lugnuts Prepares for it’s 30th Season
General Manager Zac Clark joins host Chris to discuss the Lansing Lugnuts' preparations for their 30th season. The episode highlights the availability of quality baseball in Michigan beyond the Detroit Tigers.
- Samantha Harkins Named New Leader for Lansing 5:01
Lansing 5:01 is a wonderful mid-Michigan organization doing great work. They’ve been highlighted in Michigan Reimagined many times. For the first time since they were founded, they have a leadership change. Joining Chris to tell us about t…
- Chengdu Teahouse in Old Town Lansing Delivers Authentic Chinese Experience
The community is a richer place to live when individuals find their true calling and dare to buck the trends by opening unique businesses. Today I want to highlight a special business in Lansing’s Old Town, Chengdu Teahouse. Joining Chris…
- Capital City Film Festival Returns for 2026
We’re on the cusp of the newest season of the award winning Capital City Film Festival! Joining Chris to share this year’s hot new details - are Festival Event Director Emma Selby, Program Director Pete Johnston, and Film Programs Manager,…
- MSU Foundation and MEDC Host PitchMI Championship
Chris has said a number of times, Michigan may have the most competitive and effective start-up ecosystems in the country. Two major players in that space are the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Michigan State University…
- Local Artist Fills Vacant Space With Temp Exhibit
Chris has said many times on this show that a quality community values art and the artist. I’ve also highlighted people who have made significant pivots in their careers. In this episode, we delve into both! Joining Chris to share his stor…
- Chris Silker of Keller Williams-Advantage in Team Shares How AI is Used in Real Estate
Artificial Intelligence is being incorporated in all manners of life. Joining Chris to share how AI is used in Real Estate and to give a general update on the status of resident real estate in Michigan is the owner of Keller Williams - Adv…
- LEAP Thrive Partners with Developers to Facilitate Community-Oriented Projects
The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) recently introduced LEAP Thrive, a program that partners with developers to facilitate community-oriented development projects. Joining Chris to explain more is LEAP Thrive Board President & COO…
- Health Bar Hosts ‘Health’Care 2026, Bringing Together Leading Voices in Healthcare, Entrepreneurship, AI and More
Society is clamoring for health care reform, along with a fundamental shift from Sick Care to truly affordable Health Care. Joining Chris to discuss an upcoming event called ‘HEALTH’CARE 2026 is the Founder & CEO of Health Bar, Nathan Baar!
- Data Centers Causing Controversy - What Do They Do, and Are Concerns Founded?
Seemingly out of nowhere Data Centers have been proposing new facilities in many Michigan communities. Most are being met with strong opposition, but it’s hard to keep up with what the concerns are, what the rebuttals have been - and ultim…
- Kirk Byrens State Farm Agency Educates on Cyber Security & Cautions Against Agentless Policies
Insurance is something most people would rather not think about. After all, people and businesses pay money in the hopes of never having to use the services they’re paying for. Many think that getting the cheapest policy, and foregoing a l…
- Michigan Community Action Celebrates 50 Impactful Years
Michigan Community Action is the state association for the 27 designated Community Action Agencies in Michigan. They are also part of a national network of over 1,000 local organizations that help people move from poverty to economic stabi…
- Michigan Celebrates Ice Fest in the Upper Peninsula since 1990
Outdoor recreation checks a lot of boxes when it comes to things that bring value to our lives. It drives our health and wellness, and it drives our economy. Joining Chris to discuss the details and impact of the annual Michigan Ice Fest i…
- MLK Commission Organizes Annual Day of Celebration & Community Work Year Round
In this episode, we’re talking about legacy, leadership and impact. The Commission is preparing for its 41st annual Day of Celebration, one of the largest MLK Day events in the country — but its work extends far beyond a single day. Joinin…
- TriTerra and Revitalize Share How Partnerships are the Engine Making Projects Go
Many of us cheer at ribbon cuttings, or even groundbreakings, and are excited about a new endeavor in our communities. Those behind the scenes realize it takes amazing partnerships and collaboration months - even years - in advance to get…
- United Way Now Providing Mobile Tax Service & Calls For Volunteers
Vulnerable populations suffer in a variety of ways. One way is having a lack of access to financial services - either lacking transportation, or awareness that services exist. Joining Chris to discuss a new mobile tax service provided by t…
- Bridges, An Intergenerational Center, Find Home Thanks to LAFCU’s Creative Solutions
Bridges - An Intergenerational Center - is preparing to open in Lansing, offering a truly unique model that brings young children and older adults together for shared learning and connection. After two years of searching for the right buil…
- River Caddis Breaks Ground on 204 Unit Mixed-Income Housing in Midland
Accessible housing has been a hotly discussed topic around Michigan - and on this show - for a while now. Our next guest has found a way to develop 204 units of mixed-income housing in Midland MI called The Dean, Apartments at Eastlawn. Jo…
- David Silva Smith Demonstrated Using AI for Self-Understanding
AI isn’t just for answers. Joining Chris is Private Investor & Community Builder, Dave Silva Smith uses it to surface high-leverage questions about himself - turning reflection into action: a better father, a better partner, and clear acti…
- Local Intellectual Property Attorney Becomes Thought Leader on Need To Know Topics
Inventors and innovators need to protect their inventions and processes. And it’s not a one-time effort! Here to share some important need-to-know tips, and how to follow him for regular updates, is Senior Attorney from Foster Swift Collin…
- LAFCU Leans Into Serving The Community in New, Robust Ways
Financial institutions are critical to the economic development of our communities. I’ve also learned that banks and credit unions are not all the same. Joining Chris to share the LAFCU story, and some new endeavors, are two of LAFCU’s exe…
- Maner Costerisan Dedicates Resources to Annual Day of Impact
Many companies have philanthropic endeavors, and Maner Consterisan in mid-Michigan certainly does their part. Joining Chris to discuss how Maner functions as a successful business - and how they give back - is Maner Costerisan Principal, S…
- Hamp Mathews & Associates Helps Land Owners with Regulatory and Compliance Issues
Land owners have a lot to consider and the environmental condition of their property is a big one. There are more and more regulatory and compliance requirements - and if you have an issue, you need to know who to call for help. Joining me…
- MotMot Inc Leverages Start Up Ecosystem To Revolutionize the Water Supply Network
Michigan has arguably one of the best Start-Up ecosystems in the country. Getting an invention turned into a successful endeavor that employs citizens is no easy feat, and it truly takes a village. Joining me to share the amazing story of…
- MSU Foundation Continues to Drive the Entrepreneurial Tech Ecosystem in Michigan
I’ve said a number of times, Michigan may have the most competitive and effective start-up ecosystems in the country. One major player in that space is the Michigan State University Research Foundation. Joining me to share a few of their r…
- Origami Rehabilitation CEO Achieves 25 Years of Serving Those in Need
Michigan is made up of many special organizations serving our communities, and I’m really excited to highlight one such group on this show. Joining Chris in the studio is the President and CEO of Origami Rehabilitation, Tammy Hannah!
- Waggoner Financial Is Growing and Feels Prepared To Sustain
If you are fortunate enough to run a business that is growing quickly, you need to have a great plan to recruit and retain talent. One local financial firm feels they’re set up for long term growth in a variety of ways. Joining Chris to sh…
- Lansing Area AIDS Network Provides Services To Thousands
Healthcare is a hotly discussed topic and the Health and Wellness of our citizens drives our ability to be a vibrant community. The Lansing Area AIDS Network is a local non-profit with a mission to serve residents in a variety of ways. Joi…
- The Mikey23 Foundation Asks Youths to Drop the Gun and Pick Up A Hammer
Significant tragedy can send a person spiraling and change you for the worse forever, or it can motivate you to create real change. Joining Chris to share the amazing story of the Mikey23 Foundation is its Founder, Michael McKissic!
- Local Consortium Bring New Community-Based Funding Mechanism for Community Development Project
There’s a new development project planned for the intersection of Holmes and Pleasant Grove in Southwest Lansing. This project is unique as it provides a creative investment opportunity for citizens. Joining Chris to share the vision and t…
- Waggoner Global Advisors Leans Into Financial Technology Projects
The professional finance community has embraced technological advancements at an aggressive rate. After all, they are working to earn your business and perform for their clients. Here to share how the team at Waggoner Global Advisors leans…
- Environmental Solutions Firm Contributes to Michigan’s Economic Growth Ecosystem
There are several what I would call behind-the-scenes industries when it comes to the revitalization of Michigan. One is environmental consulting. One Lansing-area owned and operated firm has been growing and receiving national recognition…
- A Grand Rapids-based Senior Living Provider Changes Names and Evolves in Changing Industry
The parent company of Holland Home, one of the state's largest nonprofit senior living providers, has rebranded and aims to make a more substantial impact in the lives of older adults in the region. The Grand Rapids-based entity formerly k…
- Maner Costerisan Experts Share Implications of Big Beautiful Bill on Individuals and Businesses
With the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) signed into law, significant tax changes are on the horizon for both individuals and businesses. What do you need to know? Well - let’s listen to the experts as we hear from Maner Costerisan Principal…
- Kirk Byrens State Farm Agency Educates Clients on Insurance Wants & Needs
Insurance - by definition - is something most people would rather not think about. After all, people and businesses pay real money in the hopes of never having to use the services they’re paying for. Joining Chris to shed some light on why…
- MSHDA Provides Financial and Technical Assistance to Create and Preserve Affordable Housing in Michigan
MSHDA, or the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, is a state agency that provides financial and technical assistance to create and preserve affordable housing in Michigan. It offers a wide variety of programs and resources for de…
- Gillespie Recently Awarded Development of New Spartan Gateway
The Gillespie Group has been breathing new life throughout Michigan with unique and inspired redevelopment projects. Joining Chris to discuss the new Spartan Gateway at Michigan State University and the momentum of Downtown Lansing is the…
- Detroit City Football Club Invests in New Stadium in Southwest Detroit
What the world refers to as Football, and we Americans often refer to as Soccer, has grown exponentially in popularity over the last decade. Our state’s own Detroit City Football Club recently announced a major investment and huge upgrade…
- Waggoner Global Advisors Reflects On Q2 2025 Macro Report
The world economy in early 2025 has been a roller coaster to say the least. Joining Chris to discuss the macroeconomic trends, news, and commentary - and what it might mean to you - are members of the Waggoner team - Founder, CEO Eric Wagg…
- Downtown Lansing, Inc. Reports on 2024 Achievements - Bullish For the Future!
The pandemic decimated the foot traffic in many cities, and Lansing may have been hurt more than most due to the state workers being allowed to remain home. Luckily there’s a group focused solely on creative solutions for businesses to thr…