The Michigan Opportunity Podcast

Vicki Selva, Executive Director, The Detroit Regional Defense Coalition

We dive into Southeast Michigan’s role in the defense and aerospace sectors by talking with Vicki Selva, the Executive Director of the Detroit Regional Defense Coalition. She takes us through how the coalition is driving collaboration, shaping supportive policy, and leveraging the region’s unique assets to attract investment and high-quality jobs.

Hilary Doe, Chief Growth Officer, State of Michigan

How do you grow a state’s population when faced with challenges like talent migration, employer needs, and quality of life? Michigan’s Chief Growth Officer, Hilary Doe, is tackling the issue head-on with a statewide road show. The Michigan Growth Office initiative highlights entrepreneurship, place making, economic diversification, housing, talent attraction, and higher education—laying out a comprehensive strategy to build Michigan’s future.

Khalil Rahal, Director of Economic Development, DTE Energy

Join Khalil Rahal, Director of Economic Development at DTE Energy, as we explore the rising demands of today and tomorrow’s energy landscape. He also gives insight into how Michigan’s energy impacts economic development and site competition with other states. From the critical role of data centers to the challenges of latency, cybersecurity, and global competitiveness, Khalil discusses how Michigan can stay ahead in the evolving energy economy.

Brian Larkin, Director, The National Land Bank Network at the Center for Community Progress

Join Brian Larkin as he explains the interesting economic development organization, the National Land Bank Network (NLBN) at the Center for Community Progress. NLBN is the largest trade association for landbanks across the country, connecting land bank leaders to tools, networks, and resources. Brian breaks down what sets land banks apart from other public entities, the programs NLBN offers, and what drew him to economic development.

Dave Meador, Founder, Trove Market

Former DTE Executive, Dave Meador, has launched Trove Market, a new digital platform designed to help disabled entrepreneurs connect with buyers and grow their businesses. Dave shares how his daughter and his previous work in economic development inspired him to bring the market to life. He also discusses ways he’s building support for this community, creating new opportunities and pathways to success and more.

Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President-Regional Development, MEDC

During this segment of Around Michigan in 30 Minutes, we talk with MEDC SVP, Matt McCauley. Matt highlights essential and unique companies from around the state, discusses diverse industries and how regions and communities work together to better economic growth in Michigan.

Bernard Swiecki, Vice President of Mobility and Research for the Detroit Regional Partnership, Global Epicenter of Mobility

Bernard Swiecki is the Vice President of Mobility and Research for the Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP), a leading economic development nonprofit serving the 11-county Detroit Region. In this role, Bernard oversees industry and research work for the Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) as the region works to retain and expand its global mobility and automotive leadership through its world-class advanced mobility industry sector.

Mark Rieth, President & CEO, Velvet Peanut Butter

Best known for growing Atwater Brewery into one of Michigan’s top craft breweries, entrepreneur Mark Rieth’s latest venture is reviving the beloved 90-year-old Detroit brand, Velvet Peanut Butter. In this episode Mark shares how to find your target markets, working with local communities, working with various partners and more. Mark also purchased Lansing Brewing Company in Spring of 2024. From craft beer to classic spreads, Rieth continues to make his mark reinvigorating Detroit’s storied brands.

Justin Onwenu, Director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity, City of Detroit

As the City of Detroit’s first Director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity, Justin Onwenu is on a mission to create real pathways to better work, higher wages, and long-term wealth for Detroiters. From startup support to access to capital, Justin is helping shape a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem—one that connects residents with tools, talent, and financial backing across the public, private, and philanthropic sectors.

Greg McArthur, Owner, NTL Industries

This week we talk with Greg McArthur, Owner of NTL Industries Inc. in Sterling Heights, MI. He gives insight into CNC manufacturing and shares his recent win as the 2025 US SBA Small Business Persons of the Year. NTL Industries specializes in CNC milling, CNC turning, plasma cutting and more. Their products expand through the aerospace, defense, agriculture industries and more.