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
Jeff Thompson, Partner/Product Design Engineer and co-founder, Shaggy's Copper Country Skis
Listen to Jeff Thompson, Co-Founder of Shaggy's Copper Country Skis, and host Ed Clemente, explore the unique ski manufacturer and how the Thompson family keeps their heritage alive in Boyne City, Michigan.
Gina Thorsen CEO and Co-Owner, Jacquart Fabric Products, home of Stormy Kromer
Join Gina Thorsen CEO and Co-Owner, Jacquart Fabric Products, home of Stormy Kromer hats, and host Ed Clemente, as they discuss this fascinating unique manufacturing and outdoor recreation industry that makes much more than hats.
Ron Hall, President and CEO of Bridgewater Interiors & Doug Del Grosso, President and CEO of Adient
Listen to Ron Hall of Bridgewater Interiors and Doug Del Grosso of Adient, as they explain their unique industry of manufacturing automotive interiors, how tiered suppliers work, the joint venture, supply chains issues and disrupters, and much more.
Brad Garmon, Director, Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office
Join our guest Brad Garmon, Senior Strategic Advisor & Executive Advisor for the Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office as he and Ed discuss the economic impact of the outdoor recreation industry.
Nathan Ohle, President & CEO, International Economic Development Council
Join Nathan Ohle, President & CEO, International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and host Ed Clemente as they discuss his intriguing path of taking over the helm of this critical organization that helps guide the worlds future development.
Amy O-Leary, Executive Director – Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) & President, Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC)
Join in listening to Amy O’Leary, Executive Director of Southeast Michigan Council of Governments and President of Metropolitan Affairs Coalition, as she joins host Ed Clemente to discuss the big-ticket items that effect all the businesses, citizens, and environment of the region.
Matthew Asada, Public Diplomat in Residence at USC Center for Public Diplomacy
Listen to our guest Matthew Asada as tells us about his compelling story of world travel and assignments for the U.S. Department of State, and a firsthand account of his role as the former Deputy Commissioner General at USA Pavilion at World Expo 2020 Dubai.
James McBryde, President & CEO – Middle Michigan Development Corporation
Learn with Jim McBryde about the economic footprint of the Saginaw-Chippewa Indian Tribe, CMU, Yoplait Yogurt, and other important businesses in the 4 county stretch of the Middle Michigan Development Corporation. Also hear about Jim’s connection with Star Wars!
Jen Nelson, Chief Operating & Customer Experience Officer – Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Listen to Jen Nelson with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and host Ed Clemente as they discuss the myriad of initiatives available to help drive Michigan as a leading global economic powerhouse. As Chief Operating Officer, Jen Nelson leads MEDC’s organizational operations, including development and implementation of MEDC’s strategic plan as well as MEDC’s continuous improvement and organizational performance initiatives.
Awenate Cobbina, CEO - Bedrock Manufacturing Company & Chair, MEDC Executive Committee
From pro-sports to presidents, to a legal career to wearable fashion, MEDC’s Executive Committee Chairman Awenate Cobbina has had an exciting and eclectic career.
Podcast transcripts are available upon request here.
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.
