Advertise on podcast: TALK MIDLAND w/ Logan Richetti

What happens when the cost of living keeps rising, but the resources available to help people are shrinking? Brendy Lange joins Logan on Talk Midland to discuss United Way of Midland County's annual fundraising campaign and the growing financial challenges facing families and individuals right here in our community. With a campaign goal of $4.1 million, Brendy explains why United Way's work goes far beyond fundraising. From supporting approximately 25 local nonprofit agencies to helping working individuals and families who struggle to make ends meet, United Way plays an important role in connecting resources with the people who need them. They discuss Midland's ALICE population—people who are employed but financially constrained—along with housing assistance, childcare affordability, declining nonprofit funding, and the importance of preventing a crisis before it happens. Brendy also shares why 100% of the money raised by the local United Way campaign stays in Midland, how matching programs can increase the impact of donations, and why getting involved is about more than writing a check.  Learn more, volunteer, or donate at UnitedWayMidland.org. Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Keywords Brendy Lange, United Way Midland, United Way of Midland County, Midland Michigan, Midland MI nonprofits, Midland community, Midland fundraising, United Way campaign, Midland volunteer opportunities, ALICE population, Midland housing assistance, Midland families, Community philanthropy, Midland nonprofit organizations, Talk Midland Podcast Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Brendy Lange & United Way Brendy introduces the annual community campaign and discusses volunteering alongside his wife. ~02:00 – The $4.1 Million Fundraising Goal Why this year's campaign is focused on reaching more people throughout Midland. ~04:00 – Midland's Quiet Crisis Brendy discusses rising living costs, financial pressure on working families, and shrinking resources for local nonprofits. ~06:00 – Where Does Your United Way Donation Go? Why Brendy says 100% of the money raised stays in Midland and how United Way supports approximately 25 local nonprofit agencies. ~08:00 – Understanding the ALICE Population What it means to be Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed—and why having a job doesn't always mean someone can afford their basic needs. ~10:00 – Housing Assistance & Home to Stay How local organizations support residents struggling with rent and housing instability.  Talk Midland EP 100 Lange Audio.pdf ~12:00 – Why United Way Is Expanding Beyond Corporate Giving The role of retirees, remote workers, individuals, and small businesses in supporting the campaign. ~14:00 – Every Dollar Counts How smaller donations can add up and why Brendy wants more community members involved. ~16:00 – Matching Programs That Multiply Donations How local foundation matching programs can increase contributions during the campaign. ~18:00 – The Impact on Local Nonprofits Why United Way funding can make up a meaningful portion of a nonprofit's operating budget. ~20:00 – Is United Way an Efficient Way to Give? Brendy addresses common misconceptions about administrative expenses and how donations are used. ~22:00 – The Hidden Harvest Example How United Way funding helps organizations work together to address community needs. ~24:00 – How to Volunteer & Get Involved Opportunities for individuals, businesses, and employees to learn about local nonprofit organizations. ~26:00 – Why Brendy Chose to Give Back How his involvement began at Dow and why volunteering became personally meaningful. ~28:00 – Why Prevention Matters How supporting people before they face eviction or another crisis can make a difference. ~30:00+ – Building Midland's Next Generation of Volunteers Leadership development, giving back, and encouraging younger people to get involved. Later in the episode – 2-1-1, LIFT & Getting Help How residents can connect with local resources, plus where to volunteer and donate.

Could your everyday routine be putting unnecessary stress on your body without you even realizing it? Cathy White, author of Everyday Ergonomics, joins Logan on Talk Midland to explain how the way we sit, stand, type, lift, and move throughout the day can influence our physical well-being. With 26 years of experience in ergonomics, Cathy shares practical ways to recognize and reduce physical risk factors, why the best position is often your next position, and how common products marketed as “ergonomic” might not be helping the way you think. They also discuss lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, workstation setup, weightlifting, lighting, stress, and why prevention matters before discomfort becomes a bigger issue. Cathy shares the personal experiences that inspired her to write Everyday Ergonomics and how readers can use the book to better understand their daily habits. Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland Keywords Cathy White Everyday Ergonomics, Talk Midland Podcast, Midland Michigan, Midland MI, Ergonomics, Workplace Ergonomics, Proper Posture, Lower Back Pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Workplace Injury Prevention, Office Ergonomics, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Workplace Wellness, Ergonomic Risk Factors Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Cathy White, Author of Everyday Ergonomics Cathy shares her background in industrial engineering, 26 years in ergonomics, and the five-year journey of writing her book. ~02:00 – What Is Ergonomics? Why ergonomics is about fitting tasks to people instead of forcing people to adapt to their work. ~04:00 – Why Your Lower Back May Be Suffering Cathy explains spinal positioning, prolonged sitting, and ways to reduce unnecessary strain. ~06:00 – “The Best Position Is Your Next Position” Why regularly changing positions and incorporating movement into your day matters.  Talk Midland EP 99 Cathy White Audio.pdf ~08:00 – How Often Should You Move During a Long Drive? Movement breaks, small seating adjustments, and managing discomfort during long trips. ~10:00 – The Early Warning Signs Your Body Gives You Stiffness, numbness, tingling, and aching—and why recognizing symptoms early matters. ~12:00 – The Three Physical Risk Factors Understanding posture, force, and repetition and how they interact. ~14:00 – Are You Typing the Wrong Way? Keyboard height, wrist positioning, excessive force, and repetitive computer use. ~16:00 – The Truth About Ergonomic Wrist Rests Why an ergonomic product can sometimes create additional risks when used incorrectly.  Talk Midland EP 99 Cathy White Audio.pdf ~18:00 – Weightlifting, Posture & Personal Limitations Cathy discusses proper lifting techniques, strength training, and adapting movements to individual needs. ~20:00 – How Lighting Affects Your Workday Lighting, glare, eye strain, and other environmental factors that can influence comfort and performance. ~22:00 – Can Stress Affect Your Physical Health? The connection Cathy describes between psychosocial factors and musculoskeletal discomfort. ~24:00 – What Happens During an Ergonomic Evaluation? How an evaluation considers physical, personal, environmental, and psychosocial factors. ~26:00 – Why Stretching Isn't the Whole Solution Why Cathy focuses on changing risk factors, equipment, and work habits rather than relying on stretching alone. ~28:00 – What's Inside Everyday Ergonomics? How the book addresses common activities and introduces assessment tools readers can explore. ~30:00+ – Why This Mission Is Personal to Cathy Her family's experience with carpal tunnel syndrome, protecting quality of life, and maintaining mobility as we age.

What does the future of Midland look like—and what happens when the decisions needed to get there aren't easy? Mayor Maureen Donker returns to Talk Midland for a conversation with Logan about Midland’s future, major road and infrastructure projects, plans for the Tridge, housing and development, and some of the difficult decisions City Council has faced this year. Mayor Donker also walks through a controversial city-owned property decision, why she ultimately reconsidered her original position after meeting with residents, and how Council balances technical recommendations, taxpayer resources, neighborhood concerns, and the broader needs of the community.   Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Keywords Mayor Maureen Donkek, Midland Mayor, City of Midland, Midland Michigan, Midland City Council, Midland Michigan government, Midland development, Midland housing, Midland road construction, Midland infrastructure, The Tridge, Midland community, Midland economic development, Midland Michigan news, Talk Midland Podcast Chapter Notes 00:00 – Mayor Maureen Donker Returns to Talk Midland Logan welcomes Mayor Donker back for a conversation about Midland, local government, and the people working behind the scenes for the city. ~03:00 – Could Midland Get Blue Paw Prints? A community question sparks a discussion about an idea for blue paw prints leading toward Northwood—and why even seemingly simple city projects can involve maintenance, road ownership, weather, and taxpayer considerations. ~06:00 – Communication & Serving Midland Residents Mayor Donker talks about responding to residents and why communication is such an important part of her role. ~08:00 – What Does Midland's Future Look Like? Economic sustainability, responsible use of resources, quality of life, and partnerships with organizations throughout Midland.  Talk Midland EP 98 Audio ~11:00 – Why Is There So Much Road Construction? Mayor Donker explains why outside funding and deadlines have contributed to the amount of road work happening around Midland. ~13:30 – There's More Under the Road Than You See Road projects can also mean replacing aging pipes and other infrastructure underneath the pavement rather than having to tear a new road back up later.  Talk Midland EP 98 Audio ~16:00 – What's Happening With the Tridge? Why an assessment is necessary before rebuilding an iconic Midland landmark and why officials need to understand what's happening beneath the structure before construction begins. ~18:30 – A Controversial City-Owned Property Decision Mayor Donker walks through the debate over a city-owned property used by neighborhood residents and the competing considerations involved in deciding whether it should be sold. ~21:00 – The Meeting That Went Until Midnight A packed Council chamber, strong community opinions, and why Council ultimately paused the discussion rather than rushing a decision. ~23:00 – Why Mayor Donker Changed Her Position After meeting directly with neighborhood residents, Mayor Donker explains why she decided to rescind her original motion and reconsider the issue.  Talk Midland EP 98 Audio ~25:00 – “There's Always Two Sides to a Story” Mayor Donker discusses balancing her own perspective with the human and community impact of Council decisions. ~27:00 – The Sturgeon & Saginaw Rezoning Debate A discussion about a requested zoning change, neighborhood concerns, and the different roles of the Planning Commission and City Council. ~29:00 – “Can We?” vs. “Should We?” Mayor Donker explains how a proposal can meet technical requirements while Council still considers whether it makes sense for that specific part of the community.  Talk Midland EP 98 Audio ~30:00+ – Midland's Housing & Development Needs The conversation turns to the former Eastlawn Elementary property, housing demand, development incentives, and the relationship between housing and economic development.

What if counseling didn't always have to happen from a couch? Megan Welke of Forward Therapy and Consulting joins Logan to talk about building her Midland practice, working with couples before relationships reach a breaking point, and the issues she sees couples navigating—from work-life balance and parenting to communication and differing values. Megan also shares why she started taking therapy outside, including walking sessions through Midland City Forest, where clients can move, talk, and practice mindfulness and grounding strategies in real time.  They also talk about Forward Therapy's growing team, its new Saginaw location, and an upcoming mental-health podcast designed to bring useful conversations beyond the therapy room. Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Keywords Megan Welke, Forward Therapy and Consulting, Midland Michigan, Midland City Forest, Midland counseling, Couples counseling, Marriage counseling, Relationship therapy, Premarital counseling, Walking therapy, Mental health, Work-life balance, Relationship communication, Midland Michigan businesses, Talk Midland Podcast  Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Megan Welke & Forward Therapy and Consulting How Megan's practice started, its Midland location, and how Forward Therapy has grown. ~03:00 – How COVID Changed Megan's Career Megan discusses the demand she saw for support during COVID and how it eventually led to her going full-time with her own practice.  ~05:00 – Building a Team of Eight Clinicians From couples and young children to neurodivergent clients and trauma-focused care, Megan explains the different specialties within the practice. ~07:00 – Don't Wait Until Your Relationship Is Falling Apart Why Megan would rather see couples proactively work on their relationships instead of waiting until someone already has “one foot out the door.”  ~09:00 – What Actually Happens in Couples Counseling? Megan walks Logan through what couples can expect when they first come in and why building trust is so important. ~11:00 – Where Did You Learn How to Be in a Relationship? Parents, family members, friends, and childhood experiences can all shape what we believe a relationship should look like. ~13:00 – Struggling in a Relationship Is Normal Megan explains why relationship struggles don't automatically mean it's time to walk away—and why staying curious about your partner matters.  ~15:00 – Work-Life Balance & Relationships Why constantly being connected to work can create tension and resentment at home. ~18:00 – Navigating Major Differences as a Couple Megan discusses how couples can approach deeply held differences by exploring values, listening to each other's perspectives, and understanding that partners don't have to agree on everything. ~20:00 – Premarital Counseling Why conversations about children, parenting, religion, expectations, and other major life decisions can be valuable before getting married.  ~22:30 – What Creates Disconnection in Relationships? Resentment, unresolved conflicts, betrayal, lack of attention, and other issues Megan sees in her work. ~24:00 – The Social Media Relationship Trap How repeated exposure to pop-psychology content can influence the way people interpret their relationships. ~26:00 – Couples Counseling Isn't Magic Both partners have to participate and be willing to work on changing patterns. ~27:30 – The Ripple Effect of Healthier Relationships Megan explains how helping one couple can influence children, families, and ultimately the broader community.  ~28:30 – Therapy in Midland City Forest Why Megan started taking clients outside for walking therapy and what she has observed from combining conversation, movement, and the outdoors. ~30:00+ – What's Next for Forward Therapy A new Saginaw location, telehealth, Forward Therapy's upcoming podcast, and continuing to make counseling easier to access.

What if needing help never had to come down to whether you could afford it?  For more than a century, Family & Children’s Services of Mid-Michigan has been serving our community—but you may not realize just how much they offer. Jodi Scorsone joins Logan to talk about stepping into the Executive Director role, leading a team that includes 13 therapists, and working to make counseling, education, and support services accessible regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay. They discuss scholarships and sliding-fee options, bringing therapists directly into community locations and schools, Camp Crossroads, support groups, the realities of nonprofit funding, and Jodi’s goal of removing barriers that keep people from getting help.  Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Keywords Jodi Scorsone, Family and Children’s Services of Mid-Michigan, Family and Children’s Services Midland, Midland Michigan, Midland MI nonprofits, Midland counseling services, Counseling services, Mental health support, Affordable counseling, Family counseling, Youth counseling, Camp Crossroads, Midland community resources, Nonprofit organizations, Talk Midland Podcast  Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Jodi Scorsone Jodi discusses stepping into the Executive Director role after previously working in fund development. 02:00 – 102 Years of Serving the Community What Family & Children’s Services does and its mission to provide counseling, education, and support to people who need it. 04:00 – Counseling Regardless of Ability to Pay Insurance, scholarships, sliding-fee options, and the organization's commitment to making care financially accessible.  06:30 – Taking Therapy Into the Community Why therapists are providing services at locations including West Midland Family Center, Greater Midland Community Center, and Coleman Family Center. 09:00 – 13 Therapists & Same-Day Availability Jodi discusses the organization's growing team and its ability to connect people with care quickly.  11:00 – When Insurance Still Isn’t Enough How high deductibles can create a financial barrier even for people who have insurance. 13:30 – Finding the Right Counselor The different specialties available and how clients can learn about therapists before scheduling. 15:30 – How a Nonprofit Pays for Accessible Care Insurance revenue, local foundations, United Way, grants, and community support. 18:00 – Helping More Than 1,000 People Jodi discusses the range of circumstances their therapists encounter and the impact counseling can have on individuals and families.  20:00 – Counseling Inside Midland Schools How Family & Children’s Services works with schools to make counselors available to students. 22:00 – Camp Crossroads How the summer program helps middle- and high-school-age students continue receiving support when school isn't in session. 24:00 – Supporting the Therapists Jodi discusses the emotional demands on therapists seeing multiple clients each day and the importance of preventing burnout. 26:00 – Support Groups & Meeting People Where They Are Support groups, potential library programming, and Jodi’s push to remove barriers by taking services into familiar community spaces.  28:00 – The Future of Family & Children’s Services Jodi's goal to help more people, hire more therapists, strengthen partnerships, and adapt to changing nonprofit funding. 30:00+ – Funding, Donors & Measuring Community Impact The changing grant environment, building an individual donor base, tracking client outcomes, and the annual fundraising gala.

Logan Richetti sits down with Mark Haskin, the owner of Shine Window Cleaning in Midland, Michigan. What started as a six-month job turned into a 13-year journey through startup chaos, franchise expansion, and building a high-trust team of 15. Mark shares how he went from cleaning windows as a technician in Grand Rapids to becoming the owner-operator of one of the top-performing Shine franchises in the country—serving big clients like Soaring Eagle Casino and CMU. You'll hear how he scaled from zero customers to a 10-truck operation, mastered logistics and safety, and learned to get out of his own way to grow the business.  Whether you're an entrepreneur, team builder, or just love a good small-town success story, this episode is packed with lessons on growth, grit, and getting things Shine clean. Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Keywords Mark Haskin, Shine Midland, Shine Window Cleaning, Midland Michigan, Midland MI businesses, Midland small business, Window cleaning, Professional window cleaning, Pressure washing, Holiday lighting, Small business owner, Entrepreneurship, Franchise business, Customer service, Talk Midland Podcast  Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Mark Haskin & Shine Mark introduces Shine and its window cleaning, pressure washing, holiday lighting, and outdoor lighting services. He shares how he went from technician to owning the Midland operation.  03:00 – A Six-Month Job That Turned Into a Career What was supposed to be a short-term job became nearly 13 years with Shine—and eventually business ownership. 05:00 – The Reality of Professional Window Cleaning Mark explains the safety, insurance, OSHA compliance, equipment, training, and problem-solving required to do the job professionally.  07:30 – Bringing the Shine Franchise to Midland How Mark and his in-laws became early franchise owners and helped establish Shine in Midland. 10:00 – Watching Shine Become a National Brand Mark reflects on being there during the company's early franchising days and watching it expand into a national operation.  12:00 – Building a Customer Base From Zero Door knocking, family connections, and the support of the Midland community helped get the new business off the ground. 14:00 – Why Midland Supports Small Businesses Mark shares his perspective as someone who wasn't originally from Midland but chose to make it home—and why he believes the community wants local entrepreneurs to succeed.  16:30 – “I Was My Own Bottleneck” As the company grew, Mark realized he couldn't continue doing everything himself. One of his biggest lessons was recognizing where other people could do the job better. 18:30 – Hiring Someone Better Than You Mark admits sales wasn't his strength and explains why hiring the right person for that role helped the business grow. 20:00 – The Pursuit of Excellence A look at one of Shine's core values and why educating customers and delivering excellent service are central to the company.  22:00 – Midland's Customer Service Recognition Mark shares why being recognized for customer service across Shine locations nationwide is one of the accomplishments he's most proud of.  24:00 – 15 Employees, 10 Trucks & Business Overhead What it really takes behind the scenes to keep a service business running—from payroll and vehicles to recurring customers and commercial accounts. 26:00 – Growing Into Major Projects Mark talks about larger accounts, including work at Soaring Eagle and CMU, and why a business has to be prepared before a big opportunity arrives.  28:00 – How Professional Window Cleaning Actually Works Purified water, squeegees, specialized tools, screen-cleaning equipment, and the techniques Shine uses to get consistent results.  30:00+ – Training, Leadership & Efficiency Mark explains why he tells new technicians to treat window cleaning like an art—and how crew leaders organize their teams to deliver a consistent result efficiently.

One whistle can make half the crowd cheer… and the other half lose their minds. Logan sits down with Kevin Crampton to talk about what it’s really like officiating high school football and basketball across Mid-Michigan. From screaming parents and packed gyms to split-second decisions and playoff pressure, Kevin shares what most fans never see behind the whistle. They discuss:  Why there’s a shortage of referees and umpires  The pressure of making game-changing calls  How officials train and work their way up  The difference between football and basketball officiating  Handling angry coaches, fans, and players  What happens when officials disagree on a call  The mechanics behind officiating a football game  And why sports officials deserve more respect than they get This episode is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the hardest — and most misunderstood — jobs in sports. Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Chapter Notes00:00 – Why Referees Matter More Than People Realize Kevin’s journey into officiating 03:20 – The Referee Shortage Problem Why fewer people want to do it 07:15 – Thick Skin & Tough Crowds Handling criticism from fans and coaches 11:10 – “Blow the Whistle” The importance of decisiveness 15:45 – How Officials Get Started Youth sports to high school progression 20:30 – The Structure of Football Officiating Crews Breaking down each position 27:10 – What Officials Actually Watch During a Play Zones, keys, and mechanics explained 35:20 – How Calls Are Made & Communicated Inside referee decision-making 42:00 – Basketball vs Football Officiating Why basketball is harder 48:10 – Big Games & High Pressure Situations 10,000 fans and playoff intensity 54:45 – Coaches, Fans, and Ejections Handling conflict during games 1:00:30 – Respect for Officials & the Future of Sports What needs to change KeywordsKevin Crampton, Talk Midland podcast, High school sports officiating, Midland Michigan sports, Football referee, Basketball official, Youth sports referees, MHSA officials, Sports officiating shortage, High school football Michigan, Basketball refereeing, Midland MI podcast, Sports leadership, Referee stories, Behind the whistle

Logan Richetti sits down with Carrie Everett — owner of Midland’s award-winning C&A Servicez and the inventor behind the brand-new Safiee cleaning tool container. Carrie shares the full journey: the light-bulb moment while scrubbing a toilet, the prototype built by SVSU’s innovation lab, navigating patent decisions, finding local support through CMURC and the Midland Business Alliance, and her bold vision to take Safiee to market. Her story reveals the gritty, behind-the-scenes reality of turning an idea into a patented product — all while juggling business, motherhood, and sheer determination. But Carrie's entrepreneurial story is only half of her truth. She opens up about addiction, recovery, rebuilding her self-worth, and the unshakable mindset that fuels her today. From being denied a gas station job due to her past to becoming Midland’s top-rated cleaning company and building a viral TikTok presence, Carrie explains how she transformed the same energy that once fed her addiction into a force for creation, action, and impact. This episode is raw, inspiring, and a reminder that the next big idea can be born anywhere — even bent over a toilet with a scrub daddy in hand. Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes:  Facebook: @TalkMidland  TikTok: @TalkMidland  YouTube: @TalkMidland  Apple Music: @TalkMidland Podcast  Spotify: @TalkMidland Podcast Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Keywords Keri Everett, C&A Service, Safie, Safie cleaning product, Midland Michigan, Midland small busines, Midland entrepreneurs, Female entrepreneur, Cleaning business, Cleaning products, Product invention, Patent process, Addiction recovery, Entrepreneurship, Saginaw Valley State University, Talk Midland Podcast Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Keri Everett Keri introduces C&A Services and shares the recent recognition her cleaning company received in Midland. 02:30 – What Is Safie? The everyday cleaning problem that sparked Keri’s idea for a brand-new product. 05:00 – Turning an Idea Into a Patent Keri discusses navigating patents, trademarks, attorneys, and decisions she had never faced before. 08:00 – Midland Resources That Helped Make It Possible How the Midland Business Alliance, CMURC, grants, and other local resources helped Keri move forward. 10:30 – Pitching the Idea to Scrub Daddy Keri shares the funny response she received after reaching out to Scrub Daddy early in the Safie journey. 13:00 – The Cost of Manufacturing an Invention What it could cost to turn Safie from a prototype into a product—and how Keri plans to make it happen. 15:30 – Creating the 3D-Printed Prototype at SVSU Inside the local prototype lab that helped turn Keri’s idea into something she could actually hold. 18:00 – Putting Yourself Out There Keri talks about taking risks, being willing to learn, and continuing even when she's nervous. 20:00 – Keri Opens Up About Addiction & Recovery A deeply personal conversation about addiction, treatment, recovery, and how those experiences shaped the person she is today. 23:00 – The Importance of Self-Worth What Keri would tell her younger self about confidence, self-love, and the choices we make. 25:00 – Rejected From a Job to Starting Her Own Business After a background check prevented Keri from getting a job, she decided to create an opportunity for herself—and started cleaning. 27:00 – The Moment Safie Was Born How cleaning a toilet led to the lightbulb moment behind her invention. 29:00 – The People Who Keep Her Motivated Keri shares why the people she's lost continue to motivate her to chase opportunities they never had. 30:00+ – TikTok, Going Viral & What's Next for Safie From a cleaning tip reaching one million views to building an e-commerce site and exploring TikTok Shop and affiliate marketing, Keri talks about her plans to get Safie in front of customers.

Have you tried O’s Mid & Main yet? Logan sits down with Marc Owczarzak to talk about the story behind bringing O’s Mid & Main to downtown Midland—and everything customers never see when they sit down for dinner. Marc’s journey is anything but typical. After earning an engineering degree and spending decades working professionally, he eventually realized hospitality was where he truly wanted to be. Today, his family operates restaurants in Auburn, Bay City, and now Midland.  They talk about the financial and personal risk of opening another restaurant, Marc’s daughter Riley stepping into the family business, building and training a brand-new team, creating consistency in the kitchen, dealing with customer expectations and online reviews, and why hospitality means much more than simply delivering a meal. One of the biggest takeaways? Tell your server when they’re doing a great job. Marc explains that sometimes a few genuine words of encouragement can mean as much as the tip itself.  If you love local restaurants, small business, entrepreneurship, or downtown Midland, this is a conversation you’ll want to hear. Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Marc Owczarzak The family and story behind O’s 04:30 – From Engineering to Hospitality Why Marc left a long professional career 10:00 – How the Auburn Restaurant Started Taking the first entrepreneurial risk 15:30 – Expanding Into Bay City Building H2O’s and making the career change 21:00 – Why Midland Became the Next Location How the opportunity developed 27:00 – Bringing Riley Into the Family Business A daughter leaving the corporate world for restaurants 33:00 – Building O’s Mid & Main The menu, downtown location, and opening process 39:00 – The Risk Behind Opening a Restaurant Money, staffing, real estate, and uncertainty 45:00 – Finding Your Passion Why Marc believes passion makes taking risks easier 51:00 – Restaurant Consistency Is Harder Than It Looks Getting every meal right every time 57:00 – Managing a New Kitchen & Team Training talented people to work the same system 1:03:00 – Social Media & Customer Expectations How reviews impact restaurants 1:09:00 – A Message for Restaurant Customers Why telling your server “great job” matters KeywordsDowntown Midland Michigan, Midland MI restaurants, O’s Pub and Grill, H2O’s Waterside Grill, Midland small business, Restaurant entrepreneurship, Family business, Restaurant ownership, Hospitality industry, Downtown Midland, Customer service, Local restaurants, Talk Midland Podcast

What does it really take to build a business around people—and do it well? Logan Richetti sits down with Ali Huntoon, founder of Allied HR Solutions and Allied Group Fitness, to unpack the realities of entrepreneurship, employee retention, workplace culture, and why movement is just as important for mental health as it is for physical health. Ali shares how she launched a fractional HR firm at the very start of 2020, why small businesses don’t need full-time HR to do things right, and how thoughtful leadership, communication, and culture-fit hiring can make or break an organization. The conversation also dives into Ali’s second passion—fitness—and how building an inclusive, judgment-free community has transformed the way people experience exercise. This episode is packed with real-world insight for business owners, leaders, and anyone passionate about building healthier workplaces and stronger communities. Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Chapters / Timestamps  00:00 – Entrepreneurship looks easier than it is 02:15 – Introducing Ali Huntoon & her two businesses 05:10 – Launching Allied HR Solutions in early 2020 09:30 – What fractional HR really means 14:45 – Handbooks, compliance, and modern HR challenges 20:30 – Employee retention, culture, and career pathing 27:40 – Leadership, feedback, and communication 34:50 – Transition to Allied Group Fitness 39:30 – Redefining fitness and mental health 46:10 – Spin, yoga, pound, and building inclusive fitness spaces 52:20 – Community involvement and giving back in Midland 58:40 – Final thoughts on people, culture, and collaboration Key Keywords Fractional HR, Employee retention, Workplace culture, Small business HR, Leadership development, Hiring for culture fit, Employee engagement, Mental health and movement, Group fitness community, Women in business, Entrepreneurship journey, Midland Michigan business, Community leadership, Fitness for beginners, Building strong teams

The decisions made at the township level impact your roads, parks, fire protection, elections, zoning, and future growth—but many people don't know how local government works. Logan sits down with Mary Draves, candidate for Larkin Township Clerk, to discuss her lifelong connection to Larkin Township, her 30+ year leadership career at Dow, and why she's running for office. Mary explains the responsibilities of township government, the role of the Township Clerk, and the challenges facing one of Midland County's fastest-growing communities. From water taps and fire protection to long-term planning and community engagement, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the decisions shaping Larkin Township's future. In this episode:  Mary's career at Dow and leadership experience  Growing up in a fourth-generation Larkin Township family  What a Township Clerk actually does  How township government works  Water taps and future development  Fire protection and long-term planning  Why communication with residents matters  Supporting local businesses and economic growth  The importance of community service  Why informed local elections matter Whether you live in Larkin Township or simply want to better understand local government, this episode provides valuable insight into how decisions close to home affect everyday life.  Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Chapter Notes00:00 – Meet Mary Draves Growing up in a fourth-generation Larkin Township family 04:15 – A 30+ Year Career at Dow Leadership, sustainability, and building experience 10:45 – Family Business & Community Roots Why Midland has always been home 17:30 – Why Run for Township Clerk? What motivated Mary to seek office 24:10 – How Township Government Works Understanding the roles and responsibilities 31:30 – Water Taps & Community Growth Planning for Larkin Township's future 39:45 – Fire Protection & Long-Term Planning Preparing for the next generation 47:20 – Communication with Residents Keeping citizens informed 54:00 – Leadership Through Service Why community involvement matters KeywordsMary Draves, Larkin Township, Larkin Township Clerk, Midland Michigan, Township government, Local government, Elections, Community leadership, Dow, Midland County, Fire protection, Water taps, Economic development, Local politics, Talk Midland Podcast

This is one of the most powerful conversations we've ever had on Talk Midland. Logan sits down inside the Recovery Pod at the Midland County Jail with Johnny Saunders to hear the raw, heartbreaking, and hopeful story of a man who has spent decades battling addiction. Johnny opens up about growing up with parents addicted to drugs, entering foster care, losing his sister, years of addiction, multiple prison sentences, and the choices that brought him back behind bars. But this conversation isn't just about addiction. It's about responsibility, redemption, second chances, and a groundbreaking program inside the Midland County Sheriff's Office that's helping inmates rebuild their lives before they return to the community. In this episode:  Growing up in a home filled with addiction  Entering foster care as a child  How addiction slowly took over his life  Multiple prison sentences and life as a career criminal  The moment he realized he wanted something different  Inside Midland County's Recovery Pod  Drug Court and why accountability matters  Rebuilding self-worth after addiction  The fear of starting over  Why hope still exists Whether you've experienced addiction personally, have a loved one who's struggling, or simply want to better understand recovery, this conversation is one you won't forget.  Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Chapter Notes00:00 – Meet Johnny Saunders Inside the Midland County Recovery Pod 04:20 – Growing Up Around Addiction Life with two addicted parents and foster care 11:00 – Losing His Sister How tragedy fueled addiction 18:30 – From Drug Use to Career Crime The choices that led to prison 27:15 – Hitting Rock Bottom The cycle of addiction and relapse 35:00 – Inside the Recovery Pod How Midland County is doing things differently 44:15 – Drug Court & Accountability Learning responsibility for the first time 52:10 – Preparing for Release The fear of starting over 59:45 – Building a New Future Hope, support systems, and second chances  KeywordsRecovery Pod, Johnny Saunders, Scott Holzinger, Midland County Sheriff's Office, Addiction recovery, Drug Court, Foster care, Substance abuse, Second chances, Mental health, Criminal justice reform, Recovery program, Midland Michigan, Talk Midland Podcast

What makes someone choose one car wash over another? Logan sits down with Tom Terry, Site Leader at Tommy's Express Car Wash, to talk about bringing a new business to Midland, creating memorable customer experiences, and why putting people first has been the key to their success. Tom shares how Tommy's Express has grown by focusing on exceptional customer service, investing in employees, supporting local organizations, and creating an experience that keeps customers coming back. In this episode, you'll learn:  Why Tommy's Express chose Midland  What makes their car wash different from the competition  The importance of customer service in today's world  How they develop future leaders from within  Why they believe in giving people second chances  The story behind one of their most loyal customers  Why community involvement matters to their business  How unlimited memberships work  What goes into building a successful local business Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or someone who appreciates great customer service, this episode is full of valuable insights.  Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Tom Terry How Tommy's Express came to Midland 03:45 – Building a New Business Why Midland was the perfect location 08:30 – What Makes Tommy's Different Hot water, free vacuums, and customer service 14:20 – Creating a Better Customer Experience Memberships, technology, and convenience 20:10 – The Story of Derek A customer who reminds everyone why people matter 26:15 – Why Businesses Open Near Competitors The strategy behind location selection 32:30 – Developing Future Leaders Growing employees from within 39:00 – Giving People Second Chances Building a workplace that cares 46:15 – Community Partnerships Supporting Midland schools and nonprofits 53:00 – Why Customer Service Still Wins Old-school values in a modern business Keywords Tommy's Express Car Wash, Tom Terry, Midland Michigan, Customer service, Small business, Car wash, Leadership, Employee development, Midland Business, Entrepreneurship, Local business, Community involvement, Unlimited car wash, Talk Midland Podcast, Midland MI

Could your child get themselves out of a pool if they accidentally fell in? Logan sits down with Abigayle Bundze of Schieber Swim School 2.0 and the Schieber Swim Foundation to discuss one of the most important life skills a child can learn: water safety. Abbi explains why traditional swim lessons aren't always enough, the difference between learning to swim and learning to survive, and why every child should know how to roll onto their back, float, get to the wall, and climb out safely. They discuss:  Why drowning is often silent and happens faster than people realize  The difference between self-rescue swim lessons and traditional lessons  Why flotation devices can create a false sense of security  The biggest mistakes parents make around pools  Teaching babies as young as four months old  Building confidence after a near-drowning experience  Why every child should know how to safely exit a pool  The mission behind the Schieber Swim Foundation If you're a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, this conversation could change the way you think about water safety.  Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Chapter Notes 00:00 – Drowning Happens Faster Than You Think Why water safety is so important 03:10 – Meet Abbi Bundze & Schieber Swim School The mission behind self-rescue swim lessons 07:30 – Learning to Swim vs. Learning to Survive The difference every parent should know 13:00 – The Biggest Pool Safety Mistakes False confidence and flotation devices 18:45 – Can Babies Really Learn Self-Rescue? Starting lessons as young as four months 25:10 – Helping Kids Overcome Water Fear Building confidence after a scary experience 32:20 – Why Floating Comes Before Swimming The foundation of self-rescue 39:30 – How Long Does It Take to Learn? What parents can realistically expect 46:00 – Group Lessons vs. One-on-One Lessons Finding the right approach 53:10 – The Schieber Swim Foundation Making life-saving swim lessons accessible for everyone KeywordsSchieber Swim School, Abigayle Bundze, Water safety, Swim lessons, Self-rescue swimming, Drowning prevention, Infant swim lessons, Midland Michigan, Child water safety, Pool safety, Swim school, Schieber Swim Foundation, Parenting, Talk Midland Podcast, Swimming for kids

Thousands of people cried watching this Shark Tank pitch. Logan sits down with Trevor Szafranski, founder of R1SE: Education & Recreation, to discuss his incredible journey from public school teacher to Shark Tank entrepreneur. Trevor shares the behind-the-scenes story of getting the call from ABC, stepping into the Tank, receiving praise from all five sharks, and ultimately landing a deal with Barbara Corcoran. But this episode is about much more than television. Trevor explains how R1SE is helping students build confidence, supporting overwhelmed parents, and creating environments where kids can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. In this episode:  The Shark Tank audition and filming process  What happened that didn't make it on TV  Why Barbara Corcoran was Trevor's first choice  How R1SE is transforming before and after-school care  The emotional response from families across America  The future of franchising R1SE nationwide  Supporting students beyond academics  Building a mission-driven business  Balancing affordability with growth  And what's next after Shark Tank This is an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, education, and creating something that truly changes lives.  Stay Connected with Us! Please like, share, and subscribe to the #TalkMidland Podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help spread the word about the amazing people and programs in Midland, Michigan. Follow #TalkMidland on social media for the latest updates and episodes: @TALKMIDLAND Join the conversation and be part of the Midland, Michigan community! #TalkMidland  Chapter Notes 00:00 – Meet Trevor Szafranski & R1SE How a teacher became an entrepreneur 04:15 – The Problem R1SE Is Solving Helping students and parents 10:20 – The Call From ABC Getting invited to Shark Tank 16:30 – Behind the Scenes of Shark Tank Preparing for the biggest pitch of his life 24:10 – The Sharks' Reactions What surprised Trevor the most 31:45 – Barbara Corcoran's Offer Why she was the perfect partner 39:20 – The Emotional Response From America Thousands of emails and messages 47:15 – The Future of R1SE Franchising and national growth 55:00 – Building a Mission-Driven Business Purpose before profit 1:02:40 – What's Next for Trevor and R1SE The future after Shark Tank KeywordsTrevor Szafranski , R1SE Education and Recreation, Shark Tank, Barbara Corcoran, Midland Michigan, Education entrepreneurship, After school programs, Student mentorship, Childcare innovation, Franchising, Small business success, Family support, Talk Midland Podcast, ABC Shark Tank, Educational leadership