The Michigan Opportunity Podcast

Matthew Asada, Public Diplomat in Residence at USC Center for Public Diplomacy

Listen to our guest Matthew Asada as tells us about his compelling story of world travel and assignments for the U.S. Department of State, and a firsthand account of his role as the former Deputy Commissioner General at USA Pavilion at World Expo 2020 Dubai.

James McBryde, President & CEO – Middle Michigan Development Corporation

Learn with Jim McBryde about the economic footprint of the Saginaw-Chippewa Indian Tribe, CMU, Yoplait Yogurt, and other important businesses in the 4 county stretch of the Middle Michigan Development Corporation. Also hear about Jim’s connection with Star Wars!

Jen Nelson, Chief Operating & Customer Experience Officer – Michigan Economic Development Corporation

Listen to Jen Nelson with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and host Ed Clemente as they discuss the myriad of initiatives available to help drive Michigan as a leading global economic powerhouse. As Chief Operating Officer, Jen Nelson leads MEDC’s organizational operations, including development and implementation of MEDC’s strategic plan as well as MEDC’s continuous improvement and organizational performance initiatives.

Awenate Cobbina, CEO - Bedrock Manufacturing Company & Chair, MEDC Executive Committee

From pro-sports to presidents, to a legal career to wearable fashion, MEDC’s Executive Committee Chairman Awenate Cobbina has had an exciting and eclectic career.

Christopher Girdwood, Executive Director - Detroit Region Aerotropolis

A recent episode of The Michigan Opportunity podcast features Christopher Girdwood, Executive Director of Detroit Region Aerotropolis.® Girdwood joins host Ed Clemente as they discuss the future of the Aerotropolis, the four-community, two-county public-private economic development partnership driving corporate expansion and new investment around Detroit Metro and Willow Run Airports. Girdwood shares his vision for the Aerotropolis and the new growth opportunities available to future tenants.

Brittany Hunter, Managing Partner - Atomic Object

Atomic Object, this multistate company makes custom software for all types of clients, based right here in Michigan, with clients ranging from health to furniture and much more!

Join Brittany Hunter, Managing Partner, Atomic Object as she joins host Ed Clemente to delve into the cutting-edge field of software and the talent needed to make it happen. Atomic Object has spent 20 years designing and developing custom software for 200+ organizations, large and small. They have a proven approach to leveling up their team with professional development and keeping that talent right in here in Michigan. You may also learn a little about dressage & horses!

Special Episode from Mackinac Policy Conference - Day 2

Join our host Ed Clemente for another special Michigan Opportunity Podcast from the Mackinac Policy Conference, hosted by the Detroit Regional Chamber. Hear from our thought leader guests including Michelle Grinnell, SVP Marketing and Communications, MEDC; Glenn Stevens, Exec. Dir. MICHAuto and VP Automotive & Mobility Initiatives, Detroit Regional Chamber; Dr. Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D., President, Michigan State University; G. Jerry Attia, Managing Principle AECOM, Michigan.

Conrad Haremza from PROXIMO and Jamie Wright from Detroit City Distillery

Hear our two spirits experts as they break down the business of spirits, the economic impact on the state as well as the talent and workforce and the business’s unique industry.

Join our guests Conrad Haremza and Jamie Wright alongside host Ed Clemente as they discuss the exciting and evolving world of spirits. Conrad’s day job is working across three states for PROXIMO, a global innovator of quality spirits that builds brands and invents new products to meet the world’s changing tastes and trends. Conrad is also the President of the Michigan Spirits Association (MSA), representing every spirit that you see on the shelf. Jamie is the Regional Sales Manager for the Award-winning Detroit City Distillery. she is also a MSA board member and works with all the local Michigan distilleries. Learn about Certified Specialists of Spirits (CSS) and how it’s recognized internationally.

Wafa Dinaro, Executive Director - New Economy Initiative

13 foundations help fund the New Economy Initiative, find out how Wafa Dinaro’s international path has positioned her to be its new leader! Join our guest Wafa Dinaro, Executive Director for the New Economy Initiative, and host Ed Clemente as she explains this unique foundation and how its mission assists small businesses and much more.

The New Economy Initiative (NEI) is a philanthropic collaboration and special project of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan working to build a regional network of support for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Their mission is to grow an inclusive culture of entrepreneurship in southeast Michigan that benefits all residents and strengthens the regional economy. Wafa has had an exciting career path from Dearborn, to the state legislature, to federal government, as well as international work and economic development with Wayne County Executive, Warren C. Evans.

Gary McDowell, Director of Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development

MDARD Director McDowell breaks down the complex ecosystem of agriculture and rural development across the State of Michigan.

Join Gary McDowell, Director of Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development, with host Ed Clemente as they discuss one of the biggest economic industries in Michigan. Gary grew up in the Upper Peninsula and has a family business of hay farming, as well as careers including being a county commissioner, a UPS driver, volunteer firefighter and EMT. He is passionate about the agriculture business and its future growth for talent and economy. Director McDowell also discusses the Office of Rural Development and how it works hand in glove with Michigan’s agriculture future.