The Michigan Opportunity
Through dynamic discussion, The Michigan Opportunity markets the state and promotes Michigan as a world-class business location. The podcast serves as a forward-thinking voice for Michigan as a conduit to global trends and applications in the new global economy.
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PreviousEpisodes
Ernestine Lyons, Global Entrepreneur In Residence Program Manager, Global Detroit
Ernestine Lyons, Global Entrepreneur in Residence (Global EIR) Program Manager at Global Detroit, talks about how the Global EIR program works with immigrant tech entrepreneurs to start businesses in Michigan and helps them grow in scale. Global Detroit is a non-profit working to revitalize Metro Detroit’s economy by pursuing strategies that strengthen Detroit’s connections to the world and making the region more attractive and welcoming to immigrants, internationals, and foreign trade and investment.
David Washburn, CEO, MSU Research Foundation
Hear from David Washburn, CEO of the MSU Research Foundation, as he discusses how the foundation manages an endowment built from decades of licensing revenue and is a key partner in the Michigan State University (MSU) innovation ecosystem. In addition to providing over $10 million in research funding at MSU annually, this non-profit is focused on technology commercialization, economic development, and placemaking.
Michael Schreuder, Deputy Principal Officer, U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai
Listen to Michael Schreuder, a career diplomat generating international business. As Deputy Principal Officer at the U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai, India, he has had a fascinating career dedicated to fostering global business opportunities for the U.S. and Michigan. This Western Michigan University alumni and Kalamazoo native’s Michigan roots remain strong, as he continues to bridge international relations and business development.
Eric Larson, Chief Executive Officer, Downtown Detroit Partnership
Since 2014, Eric Larson has served as CEO of The Downtown Detroit Partnership, a private/public partnership of corporate and civic leaders who develop and support programs to enhance downtown Detroit, including creating a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center. Larson has more than 35 years of experience in the field of real estate investment, development, asset management and leasing.
Quentin L. Messer Jr., Chief Executive & Economic Competitiveness Officer
Discover the latest initiatives at the MEDC as Quentin L. Messer Jr., Chief Executive & Economic Competitiveness Officer, discusses how Michigan is positioning itself in the arenas of talent, mobility, economic growth, defense, aerospace, innovation, and more. Then Quentin turns the tables on host Ed Clemente, diving into the podcast's 4-year journey, exploring the value of long-form listening, public value, emerging trends, unique guests, and much more.
Thomas Cooney, Vice President - International Policy Advisor, Capital Group
Listen to Michigander Thomas Cooney, Vice President and International Policy Advisor at Capital Group. He discuss the organization's investments in Michigan and globally as one of the world's oldest and largest investment management firms, managing over $2.6 trillion in assets. Along with his unique path to his role, Tom has nearly 30 years of experience in government relations, strategic planning and leadership.
Justin Winslow, President and CEO, Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association and Emily Daunt, Vice President Communications & Brand Strategy, Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association
Join us as we discuss Michigan's hospitality industry with Justin Winslow, President and CEO of the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association (MRLA) and Emily Daunt, MRLA Vice President Communications & Brand Strategy. Hear how the MRLA provides essential services to its members and contributes over $28 billion to the state's economy while supporting 650,000 jobs.
Spencer Nevins, President, Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and MBWWA Services, Inc.
Join Spencer Nevins, President of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) and MBWWA Services, Inc., as he unpacks this unique ecosystem and industry. He walks us through the process of purchasing alcoholic beverages from suppliers (breweries, wineries, etc.) and distributing them to licensed retailers, such as grocery stores, bars, and restaurants. Also, how they help new brands get to market, ensuring consumers have a wide variety of options.
Aileen Bovan, Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity Officer, MEDC and Geoffrey Crawley, Chief Marketing Officer, Synergies Companies
Hear from Aileen Bovan of the MEDC discuss leading the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategies of the organization and overseeing capital projects to align with the MEDC’s mission and vision. Also Geoffrey Crawley, Chief Marketing Officer at Synergies Companies, explains how this Detroit-based company has been a premier staffing and HR supplier since 2008, offering comprehensive solutions for Fortune 500 clients nationwide.
Ambassador Susan D. Page, Professor of Practice of International Diplomacy at the Ford School of Public Policy, University of Michigan & Professor from Practice of Law at Michigan Law
Ambassador Susan D. Page’s story of international diplomacy includes her appointment as the first US Ambassador to South Sudan. Her illustrious career at the US Department of State includes significant roles in several African countries. Working directly with the African Union, she served as Acting Permanent Representative to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. She also talks of how her personal story adds a compelling dimension to her distinguished career as an asset to U of M and the State of Michigan.
About the Host: Ed Clemente
Ed Clemente joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) in 2020 as the Senior Advisor for Trends and Development.
From 2012-2020, Clemente served as a two-term governor appointed Hearing Commissioner for the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC). Executing over 7,000 judicial Orders/Decisions, over the tenure of service. Prior joining the MLCC, Clemente launched Michigan’s Energy Innovation Business Council (EIBC) establishing it as 501c3 and 501c6 entity and serving as its first President.
Ed Clemente was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2004 representing parts of southern Wayne County. During his three terms in the State House (2004-2010) he led task forces on electric vehicles, biosciences, film industry, Brownfield restoration, economic development, quality of life and advanced energy. Before his tenure as a public official, Clemente held several leadership roles at the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber of Commerce, including President and Director Economic and Business Development. He also previously chaired the Economic Development Committee of the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments and was elected as a Trustee for Wayne County Community College District, serving four terms.
Clemente has earned degrees from Ferris State, Michigan State University and Sienna Heights Universities. Clemente was awarded with a prestigious fellowship to the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and The National Judicial College for Administrative Law. He graduated from several political leadership development programs, including Leadership Detroit, Michigan Political Leadership Program, and Leadership 21. He is a previous small business owner and has taught at Northwood University. Additionally, he hosts a “Critical Conversations” podcast and is a member of the Workforce Advisors for Wayne County Community College. Ed serves on the Board of Directors for Global Ties Detroit and the Motor Cities National Heritage Area. An avid traveler, Ed has visited more than 80 countries and territories, 150+ UNESCO World Heritage sites, many to play rugby tournaments, others for professional exchange and some for just intellectual curiosity.
The Michigan Opportunity is brought to you by Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). In collaboration with more than 100 economic development partners, MEDC markets Michigan as the place to do business, assists businesses in their growth strategies and fosters the growth of vibrant communities across the state.