The Michigan Opportunity Podcast

Robert Wolfe, Co-Founder, Zeck

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. 

Mackinac Policy Conference 2026 Part 2

We continue broadcasting from Media Row at the legendary Mackinac Policy Conference. Part 2 guests include: Joe White, High Speed Rodeo Substack; Matt Elliott, Blue Lake Ideas; Carmen Wells Quigg, Economic Growth Institute; Kelly Wolgamott, Pure Michigan; Carolina Pluszczynski, Michigan Central; Dr. Robert McMahan, Kettering University; Rachel Kuntzsch, Public Sector Consultants

Mackinac Policy Conference 2026 Part 1

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. Part 1 Guests include: Tricia Keith of Blue Cross Blue Shield, Hilary Doe of MoveDetroit, Colin Bird of Canadian Consul, Richard A. Bierschbach of Wayne State University, Laura Lee McIntyre of Michigan State University, Stephen Rapundalo of MichBio, Mary Lewis of Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic.

Amy Peterson, CEO and Founder, Rebel Nell

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.

AUVSI XPONENTIAL Conference: Michigan at the Center of Air, Land, Water & Space

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 of autonomous technology.

Colonel Lucas J. Lanczy, Garrison Commander, Camp Grayling

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.

Glenn Stevens, Executive Director, MichAuto and VP of Automotive and Innovation at the Detroit Regional Chamber

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.

Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership

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. 

Dr. Kevin Guskiewicz, President, Michigan State University

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 are positioning MSU as a next-generation powerhouse.

Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism 2026

We got an exclusive look into the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism as it celebrated 20 years of the Pure Michigan marketing campaign. 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. Hear from the state’s tourism and hospitality leaders as they discuss how Pure Michigan evolved the culture in the state, the latest travel trends, and the massive economic impact tourism has in Michigan.