The Michigan Opportunity Podcast

Alison Todak, VP of Entrepreneurship & Innovation, MEDC and Pete Martin, Director of Portfolio Management, MSU Research Foundation

Join our two startup experts — Alison Todak of MEDC and Pete Martin of the MSU Research Foundation — as they share how their organizations are helping to drive Michigan’s startup momentum. They give us insight into their collaboration on the PitchMI startup competition, highlight the four winning innovations for 2025 including: smarter hospital beds, powered campsites, satellite tech, and in-game ads. We also explore the state’s thriving entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem.

Meaghan Kennedy, Founder, Orange Sparkle Ball, Inc. & Bernard Sweicki, Vice President of Mobility and Research, Global Epicenter of Mobility

The Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) has partnered with Orange Sparkle Ball, Inc. to run a social network analysis, to try and gage GEM’s impact beyond their region and measure the relationship between organizations within their ecosystem. We talk with Meaghan Kennedy, Founder of Orange Sparkle Ball, Inc. and Bernard Swiecki, Vice President of Mobility and Research at GEM about their partnership and findings of their analysis.

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.

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.

Jonah Bailey, Managing Partner, Atomic Object

In this episode we welcome Jonah Bailey, Managing Partner at Atomic Object, as he talks about the future of AI and software technology. Atomic Object is a software development and design consultancy that customizes programs for each unique client. With offices from Ann Arbor to Grand Rapids, Chicago and North Carolina, they are developing in industries including health tech, real estate, agriculture, sports and more.

Marla Schneider, President & CEO, Cornerstone Alliance

As President and CEO, Marla Schneider oversees Cornerstone Alliance’s comprehensive efforts to attract and retain businesses, foster entrepreneurship, and create a thriving economic landscape in Southwest Michigan. She shares several transformative projects underway, how they work with community members and development authorities and more.

Everett Woodel Jr., Regional Administrator (Great Lakes), U.S. Small Business Administration

Everett Woodel, Jr., the Great Lakes Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), talks about how the SBA helps small businesses throughout the Great Lakes area from crises and disaster resistance services to loan forgiveness and more. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations.

Trista Van Tine, Founder and CEO, Nunchi

We welcome back Trista Van Tine as she shares the story behind her innovative Michigan-based startup and her deep roots in the tech startup ecosystem. Her latest venture, Nunchi, is an AI-powered people intelligence platform built to help membership organizations better understand, engage, and connect with their communities. From early-stage insights to real-world impact, Trista’s journey is a testament to the power of tech with purpose. 

Jennyfer Crawford-Williams, Founder, Ask Jennyfer, LLC, Small Business Advocate/Marketplace Curator

Among other services at Ask Jennyfer, Jennyfer Crawford-Williams conceptualizes, manages and executes the successful small business showcase All Things Detroit, which draws as many as 12,000 attendees and connects them to more than 200 small businesses. Her signature, independently-organized event is held each fall and spring. Marketing and event planning services specializing in Detroit small businesses clients. It is hard to define everything Jennyfer does, but she has a storefront in Corktown, and many other business activities, just listen to the interview!