The Michigan Opportunity

From Cutting Tools to Competitive Advantage: How a Michigan Company Is Reinventing Manufacturing Through Defense and Aerospace

Zach Bishop, President of 4Flutes, talks about building a Vicksburg based company around advanced tooling, manufacturing expertise and a relentless focus on solving real-world problems for customers. From precision manufacturing to new technologies and skilled talent, 4Flutes demonstrates how Michigan’s manufacturing heritage can become an advantage in the next generation of industry.

American Rheinmetall, shares how their major defense and advanced manufacturing company is thriving right here in Michigan

Michigan’s blend of innovation, skilled talent, and collaborative statewide support gives companies like American Rheinmetall the strategic advantage to scale, compete, and lead in next generation defense technologies.

In this conversation, we talk with Jim Schirmer, Senior Vice President of Programs, and Chris Haag, Vice President of Business Development and Strategy about how Michigan continues to be a standout location for global innovators including: a deep engineering talent pool, world-class R&D assets, manufacturing heritage, cu...

The World Comes to Detroit—and Detroit Goes Out to the World

On this episode we explore the powerful, often overlooked impact of citizen diplomacy and international exchange with Fareed Shalhout of Wayne State University and Marian Reich of Global Ties Detroit. They examine how international relationships and people-to-people exchanges strengthen the Detroit region. From students and educators to entrepreneurs and community leaders, international relationships can lead to greater understanding, collaboration, investment and long-term economic connections. 

A Look to the Horizon: Michigan’s Economic Future Opportunities

On this episode we sit down with Sandy K. Baruah, President and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber, for an important conversation about Michigan’s economic future—and what it will take to compete, grow, and prosper in the decades ahead. Sandy brings a candid perspective on Michigan’s economic-development challenges and opportunities, from attracting investment and talent to strengthening education, infrastructure, manufacturing, and more. Plus, an overview of the Mackinac Policy Conference.

Independent Research and Why it Matters to Michigan’s Economic Future

We sit down with Eric Lupher, President of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, to discuss the critical role that independent, nonpartisan research plays in strengthening Michigan. In an era of increasing polarization and competing narratives, Eric discusses how reliable research gives policymakers, business leaders, and citizens the facts they need to make better decisions.

For more than a century, the Citizens Research Council has provided objective analysis on state and local government, taxes, education, economic development, and many more complex issues th...

From Research to Real World Impact: Michigan Technological University is Turning Ideas into Companies

We sit down with Dr. Andrew Barnard, Vice President for Research at Michigan Technological University, to explore how Michigan Tech is transforming university research into economic opportunity by building stronger connections between researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, government, and industry. Michigan Tech is helping grow research from the laboratory into the marketplace through customer discovery, commercialization, venture capital, industry partnerships and more. 

Civil Discourse, Trust, and Resilience: The Bedrock of Michigan’s Civic and Economic Infrastructure

We are joined by Tonya Schuitmaker and Rebekah Warren of Michiganders for Civic Resilience, an organization dedicated to bridging divides and restoring civil discourse. Their conversation reveals why civic resilience is more than a discourse issue, it is an economic development issue. 

Tonya and Rebekah talk about the connection between strong communities and strong economies, and how where businesses invest – communities can prosper. From attracting talent and investment to building infrastructure, advancing innovation, and solving Michigan's biggest challenges, our abili...

The ABCs of Data Centers: What They Are, Why They Matter, and How Michigan Communities Can Prepare

We talk with Dr. Jean Hardy, Associate Professor in Michigan State University's Department of Media & Information, Associate Director of the Quello Center at Michigan State University, and a leading researcher on the relationship between technology, economic development, and rural communities.

Jean also discusses the Michigan Statewide Data Center Planning & Development Working Group, and how they bring public and private stakeholders together to help Michigan communities better understand and prepare for data-center development.

Reliable energy and strong international partnerships are essential to economic growth, national competitiveness, and the future of advanced manufacturing. 

Paul Marin, Director of Public Affairs at the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), discusses the agency's mission of connecting U.S. companies with infrastructure and development opportunities around the world. He explains how USTDA helps create American jobs by funding project planning, technical assistance, and partnerships that open new international markets for U.S. businesses while advancing high-quality, sustainable infrastructure in emerging economies.

We also talk with Steven Hall, Director of Development a...

Growing Michigan's Future: How Agriculture Fuels Jobs, Innovation, and Economic Growth

On this episode, we welcome Chuck Lippstreu, President of the Michigan Agri-Business Association, for an insightful conversation about one of Michigan's most important and often overlooked economic engine – agriculture. Chuck discusses the critical role Michigan's farmers, agribusinesses, food processors, and agricultural suppliers play in driving the state's economy. We also explore how innovation, sustainability, advanced technology, workforce development, and global exports are helping to position Michigan as a continuous agriculture success. 

Driving America's Next Manufacturing Revolution: How United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) is Shaping the Future of the U.S. Auto Industry

Our guest is Steve Przesmitzki, President of USCAR, the collaborative research organization founded by Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Stellantis. For more than three decades, USCAR has brought together automakers, suppliers and government partners to conduct pre-competitive research that advances manufacturing, electrification, propulsion systems, sustainability, and more that will define the next generation of transportation.

Steve brings a remarkable career spanning industry, government, and research. A Professional Engineer with...

From Lab to Launch: How the University of Michigan is Powering the Next Generation of Innovation

On this episode we're joined by Kelly Sexton, Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation Partnerships and Economic Impact at the University of Michigan (U of M). Kelly leads one of the nation's premier university innovation ecosystems, transforming cutting-edge research into successful startup companies, breakthrough technologies, and real-world solutions that drive economic growth. 

Kelly shares her unique journey from scientist to nationally recognized innovation leader. She breaks down programs such as the Technology Transfer Talent Network (T3N...

Sports are more than competition; they are a catalyst for economic development, community pride, and national visibility.

The Detroit Sports Commission works year-round to attract elite amateur and professional sporting events that generate tourism, create jobs, showcase world-class venues, and strengthen Southeast Michigan's economy. On this episode we're joined by Dave Beachnau, Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Local Organizing Committee for the 2027 NCAA® Men's Final Four®. 

Dave talks about leading the local planning, coordination, and execution for the 2027 NCAA Men's Final Four at Ford Field, working closely with the NCAA, civic leaders, and...

How 3 Michigan small businesses are innovating and making an impact

In this episode – with the help of Chris Rishko, Managing Director of Small Business and Talent at MEDC, we spotlight three Michigan small businesses recognized at the 2026 Michigan Celebrates Small Business. These Michigan small businesses are a reflection of the strength, innovation, and resilience in the state’s small business ecosystem: 

Rolling Growth Forward: How Motiv Bowling Is Investing in Muskegon and Michigan

In this episode, Scott Wilbur of Motiv Bowling discusses how his family came together to grow their business presence while supporting Michigan manufacturing, local jobs, and community engagement. Scott also shares insights into the culture behind Motiv Bowling, the company’s commitment to quality and performance, and the importance of giving back to the Muskegon region that has supported its success. From entrepreneurship to manufacturing, we talk about how West Michigan remains an important place to build, invest, and grow a business.

Reinventing the Boardroom: Innovation, Startups and the Future of Decision-Making

What if board meetings worked more like modern technology companies? Robert Wolfe, founder of Zeck, discusses entrepreneurship, startup culture, and how technology is transforming leadership, governance, and organizational decision-making. 

Robert shares insights from building Zeck, lessons from the startup ecosystem, and why simplifying collaboration and communication is becoming essential for institutions navigating rapid change. Wolfe is also the founder of Moosejaw and CrowdRise, and calls Michigan home.

The Michigan Opportunity Podcast Continues Conversations at the Mackinac Policy Conference 2026

We continue broadcasting from Media Row at the legendary Mackinac Policy Conference, hosted at the iconic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The podcast featured an outstanding lineup of guests discussing Michigan’s future across economic development, mobility, manufacturing, leadership, innovation, defense, technology, talent, and global competitiveness.

Part 2 guests include:

The Michigan Opportunity Podcast Heads to the Mackinac Policy Conference 2026

The Michigan Opportunity Podcast once again broadcasted from Media Row at the legendary Mackinac Policy Conference, hosted at the iconic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The podcast featured an outstanding lineup of guests discussing Michigan’s future across economic development, mobility, manufacturing, leadership, innovation, defense, technology, talent, and global competitiveness.

Part 1 Guests include:

What happens when entrepreneurship, creativity, and social impact come together in Detroit? Grit and a purposeful brand

On this episode, Amy Peterson, CEO and Co-Founder of Rebel Nell, shares the remarkable story behind building a purpose-driven brand that transforms layers of fallen Detroit graffiti into one-of-a-kind jewelry. She shares how creating meaningful employment opportunities for women overcoming barriers to employment, became the company’s mission. Amy also discusses entrepreneurship, love of sports, Detroit’s creative energy, and how innovation and community impact can work hand in hand. 

Michigan is emerging as a major hub where technology, economics, and national security converge. From autonomous vehicles to drones, defense to maritime systems, next-generation security and more. 

In this special multi-guest episode from the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) XPONENTIAL Conference, industry leaders and innovators discuss the future of uncrewed systems across air, land, water, and space. Our guests dive into why Michigan is uniquely positioned to lead this rapidly evolving global sector.

The conversation explores advanced mobility, defense applications, AI, economic development, manufacturing, and the growing ecosystem shaping the future o...

From the Michigan National Guard to tech research and development, Camp Grayling provides support for federal, local and international partners

Colonel Lucas J. Lanczy is the current Garrison Commander of the Camp Graying Joint Maneuver Training Center. On this episode Col. Lanczy gives us a deeper look into the training base in Northern Michigan. We discuss Camp Grayling's training facilities for land, air, maritime, cyber, and space defense domains, as well as hosting the Northern Strike exercise. He also talks about the Michigan National Guard and their impact on the community. As a native of...

From leading MichAuto to shaping conversations at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Glenn Stevens breaks down how business, government, and innovation align to move the state forward.

In this episode, Glenn Stevens, Executive Director, MichAuto and VP of Automotive and Innovation at the Detroit Regional Chamber brings an orthogonal perspective to Michigan’s evolving economy. We dive into the growing Ann Arbor–Detroit development corridor and how this region is becoming a powerful hub for mobility, technology, and economic momentum. 

What’s really happening on the ground in downtown Detroit? 10+ Detroit Developments in 30 Minutes. 

In this fast-paced conversation, Eric Larson walks us through over 10 new and evolving developments shaping Detroit’s future—from major projects to the smaller, catalytic investments driving momentum. As the leader of the Detroit Downtown Partnership, Eric shares how coordinated planning, placemaking, and public-private collaboration are turning vision into reality. It’s a compelling snapshot of how Detroit continues to reinvent itself as a vibrant, competitive, and welcoming urban core.

Reimagining Higher Education: How Michigan State University is leading the future of talent, research and impact

In this episode, Dr. Kevin Guskiewicz, the 22nd President of Michigan State University, explores his “One Team” vision and shares how a scientist’s mindset and servant leadership are shaping MSU’s 2030 strategy. He breaks down the Green and White Council initiative and explains how industry leaders are better preparing students. We also discuss the art and science of leadership, the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and how partnerships with organizations like Henry Ford Health are positioning MSU as a next-gen...

Twenty Years of Pure Michigan: Exclusive Insights from Michigan’s Tourism Experts

The Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism is Michigan's premier annual event for travel and hospitality leaders to collaborate on advancing the state's visitor economy. Over three days, 500+ industry professionals engaged in dynamic workshops and networking focused on digital marketing, inclusivity, and the Governor's Awards for Innovative Tourism Collaboration.

We got an exclusive look into the conference as it celebrated 20 years of the Pure Michigan marketing campaign. Hear from the state’s tourism and hospitality leaders as they discuss how Pure M...

Driving global investment to Detroit: What does it take to position a region for global competitiveness in today’s economy?

In this episode, we sit down with Maureen Donohue Krauss, Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP) CEO, to explore how Southeast Michigan is attracting investment, growing jobs, and competing on the world stage. Maureen shares insights on the region’s strategy to win major projects, including the initiatives – VIP by DRP and Global Epicenter of Mobility. From advanced manufacturing and mobility to emerging technologies, she highlights how Metro Detroit is leveraging its legacy strengths while building for the fu...

Where is Michigan placing its biggest bets for the future? Diving into MEDC’s investment priorities with people, places and projects

We sit down with Michelle Grinnell, Chief Communications & Attraction Officer at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), to break down the state’s investment priorities shaping the next generation of growth. She offers how MEDC is positioning the state to attract investment, support innovation, and build long-term economic resilience. Additionally, Michelle turns the tables and asks host Ed Clemente about the podcast’s past 5 years of highlighting the people, businesses, and communities that have impact...

Powering Michigan’s Transition: How LEO is Shaping the Future of Work and Industry

We sit down with Jonathan Smith, Senior Chief Deputy Director at the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) and explore how Michigan is navigating one of the most significant economic transitions in its history. 

Jonathan leads the Community and Worker Economic Transition Office, with a focus on helping workers, communities, and businesses adapt to major industry shifts—from energy evolution to the transformation of the automotive sector. He discusses building long-term economic resilience through workforce development, strategic commu...

Diplomacy at the local level: Inside the Mexican Consulate in Detroit, Michigan

In this episode, we welcome back Roberto Vazquez of the Consulate of Mexico in Detroit to talk about the important work happening every day to support Mexican nationals and strengthening ties with Michigan. We talk about the rise of Trade between Michigan and Mexico across several industries including the large automotive manufacturing partnership, international diplomacy, and how community engagement comes together in Michigan. Consul Vazquez shares insights into his unique diplomatic post, the history of the Mexican community in Michigan, and more. 

Manufacturing without borders: What it takes to lead a global manufacturing company while navigating supply chains, innovation and international markets

On this episode we sit down with Lucerne International CEO, Mary Buchzeiger, getting an inside look at how this certified Women Business Enterprise (WBE) company is connecting advanced manufacturing with partners and customers around the world. Mary offers a candid conversation on international trade, reshoring, foreign trade zones and more. Hear how this Michigan company is thriving in the global marketplace while staying rooted locally.

From research to real-world results: how the University of Michigan - Economic Growth Institute powers business innovation

The University of Michigan - Economic Growth Institute (EGI) leverages U-M’s research, technologies, and expertise to help small and medium-sized businesses innovate and grow, drive regional economic development, and translate applied research into real-world impact. 

In this episode we talk with Executive Director, Steven Wilson about how EGI provides strategic support, funding, research analysis, and hands-on collaboration with companies and communities to build long-term economic vitality across Michigan and beyond. Steve also talks about how EGI...

From $35B in Sustainable Capital to The Power of &™: Matt Elliott on Driving Durable Growth and Community Impact

Matt Elliott, Founder and CEO of Blue Lake Ideas, is a nationally recognized business and sustainability leader who advises executives and boards on navigating complexity and driving durable growth through his The Power of &™ leadership framework. In this episode Matt discusses his background as President of Bank of America Michigan and Sustainability Executive for Business and Global Commercial Banking. Diving into how he led teams across nine states and deployed more than $35 billion in s...

Powering the Next Generation of Mobility in Michigan 

On this episode of The Michigan Opportunity Podcast, we highlight Emotiv Mobility, a Michigan-based leader in supply chain integration, assembly, and advanced logistics. Vice Chairwoman, Lori Lancaster and Strategic Energy Lead, Tony Tomczak, discuss how Emotiv Mobility integrates logistics, engineered systems, manufacturing, and value-added assembly to power the next generation of mobility and energy infrastructure. Lori talks about how Emotiv looks at Michigan’s automotive roots and finds ways to move them into parallel industries including aerospace, energy and more. While Tony shares with us his project on...

Dow is driving the future of sustainable mobility in Midland, Michigan

As the Global Marketing and Strategy Director for Dow Mobility Science™, Ryan Smith is at the forefront of the automotive industry's rapid transition toward electrification and sustainability. He leads global go-to-market strategies that align Dow’s deep material science expertise with the needs of the growing EV market. In this episode he discusses how Dow materials work with autonomous vehicles, vehicle electrification process, and more. Ryan also hosts the insightful video series “The Road Ahead”, and oversees major global investments for Dow including the first Eu...

From the battlefield to Michigan’s arsenal of innovation: Colonel John T. Gutierrez on powering the state’s defense & aerospace future

Colonel John T. Gutierrez, U.S. United States Marine Corps (Ret.), brings over 30 years of operational, logistics, and defense acquisition leadership to his role as Executive Director of the Michigan Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation. In this episode, he shares how Michigan’s “Arsenal of Democracy” legacy is being modernized—helping companies win federal contracts, strengthen cybersecurity, and advancing innovation and advanced manufacturing.

From the US Army to BAE Systems: How Michigan’s Sterling Heights hub powers the future of military ground vehicles as a prime original equipment integrator 

Hear from Michael Zahuranic, Director of Business Development at BAE Systems, as he talks about how their Sterling Heights campus serves as a key hub for engineering, program management, and prototyping of military ground vehicles. BAE Systems is a global defense and aerospace leader delivering advanced military vehicles, systems, and technologies to the U.S. Department of Defense and international partners. Michael also discusses his more than 21 years of US...

A Conversation with Quentin Messer: Michigan’s Competitive Position and the Mechanics of Economic Development

Quentin L. Messer, Jr. is the Chief Executive Officer and Economic Competitiveness Officer of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) where he leads statewide efforts to attract business investment, create jobs, support community development, and enhance Michigan’s economic brand. In his role, Messer champions business attraction and expansion, small business support, access to capital, and equitable economic growth that benefits all Michiganders. Under his leadership, MEDC has secured more than $13 billion in electric vehicle and battery manufacturing investments and near...

The Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME) bridges state agencies and private industry to cement Michigan as the world’s transportation proving ground.

Recently recognized as a Leader in TIME100’s Climate 2025 list, Justine Johnson shares how the OFME is driving a total transformation of the state's workforce and high-tech transit ecosystem across land, water and air. She also discusses industry changes during her 2 years as Chief Mobility Officer, highlights top projects and more.

Business Leaders for Michigan launches “Michigan in a New Era,” featuring two experts working to shape the state’s next economy

On this episode we’re diving into research-driven, fact-based strategies designed to strengthen Michigan’s economy with Business Leaders for Michigan (BLM) CEO, Jeff Donofrio and Rachel Stewart, Gardner White Furniture & Mattress CEO and BLM Board member. They discuss the organization’s strategy plan “Michigan in a New Era”. By illuminating critical insights and connecting diverse perspectives, BLM’s proposals are grounded in Michigan’s current economic realities and aimed at accelerating growth, competitiveness, and long-term vitali

From field to bottle, Shady Lane Cellars is leveraging Michigan’s agriculture in their vineyard and wine selling business

As the Executive Winemaker and General Manager of Shady Lane Cellars, Kasey Wierzba is guiding the winery’s vision and award-winning craftsmanship. Shady Lane Cellars is a boutique, estate winery at the base of the Leelanau Peninsula near Suttons Bay, Michigan, known for its 100% estate-grown, sustainably certified wines crafted from cool-climate varietals. She also discusses Michigan’s unique agribusiness industry and the state’s various grape vine species.