The Michigan Opportunity Podcast

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.

Maureen Donohue Krauss, CEO, Detroit Regional Partnership

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 future.

Michelle Grinnell, Chief Communications & Attraction Officer, MEDC

We sit down with Michelle Grinnell, Chief Communications & Attraction Officer at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, to break down the state’s investment priorities shaping the next generation of growth. 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 impacted the state’s economy.

Jonathan Smith, Senior Chief Deputy Director, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

We sit down with Jonathan Smith, Senior Chief Deputy Director at the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) and explore how he leads the Community and Worker Economic Transition Office. Focusing on helping workers, communities, and businesses, he discusses building long-term economic resilience through workforce development, strategic community planning, and strengthening industrial competitiveness.

Roberto Vazquez, Mexican Consul, Detroit

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. 

Mary Buchzeiger, CEO, Lucerne International

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.

Steven Wilson, Executive Director, Economic Growth Institute, University of Michigan

In this episode we talk with the University of Michigan - Economic Growth Institute (EGI) 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 is working with the MEDC, the Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation, and shares about his deep Michigan roots.

Matt Elliott, Founder and CEO, Blue Lake Ideas

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 sustainable capital.