This Max Loves Midland Show episode features an in-depth conversation with Katie Trzaska-Miller, a community leader and arts advocate. Katie shares her diverse career journey, from working as a young theater executive to her current Midland Area Community Foundation role. The discussion covers Katie's passion for civic engagement, her work to promote equity and inclusion in the community, and her insights on the power of art to facilitate meaningful conversations. Listeners and watchers will gain a deeper understanding of the vibrant community initiatives happening in Midland, as well as Katie's motivations and the valuable lessons she's learned throughout her career. Whether you're a Midland resident or simply interested in community impact stories, this episode provides a compelling look at the people and projects shaping Midland, Michigan. 

Timestamps: 0:00 - 10:00 - Introduction to Katie Trzaska-Miller and her diverse roles in the Midland community. 10:00 - 20:00 - Katie's journey from Massachusetts to Michigan and early career experiences. 20:00 - 30:00 - Challenges and lessons learned from managing a small theater as a young professional. 30:00 - 40:00 - Katie's transition to Interlochen Center for the Arts and her experiences working with high-profile artists. 40:00 - 50:00 - Katie's move to Midland and her role at the Midland Center for the Arts. 50:00 - 1:00:00 - Katie's involvement in local community initiatives, including the Midland County Inclusion Alliance and the Juneteenth Block Party. 1:00:00 - 1:10:00 - Katie's reflections on community engagement and the importance of civic involvement. 1:10:00 - 1:20:00 - A discussion of favorite podcasts and the role of media in shaping perspectives. 1:20:00 - 1:30:00 - Final thoughts. 

This episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the vital role of local government communications and the power of community engagement. Meet Katie Guyer, Communications Coordinator for the City of Midland. Katie discusses her wide-ranging responsibilities, from managing the city's social media to overseeing community engagement initiatives. She shares insights into her personal journey to Midland, her passion for public service, and the City's efforts to enhance livability and community development. The discussion covers topics such as the City's innovative social media strategy, the impact of major events that took place in 2020, and Katie's vision for Midland's future.

Timestamps:

0-10 minutes:

Introduction of Katie Guyer, the Communications Coordinator for the city of Midland

Discussion of Katie's wide-ranging responsibilities, including social media, media interviews, press releases, and community engagement

Katie's emphasis on bringing a human element to the City's communications and her passion for transparency

10-20 minutes:

Katie's background and journey to Midland, including her transition from corporate marketing to local government communications

Challenges and rewards of Katie's role, especially during 2020

Importance of human-to-human interaction and giving residents the opportunity to connect with their local government

20-30 minutes:

Katie's first impressions of Midland and the City's key amenities, such as the Tridge, Dow Gardens, and the Midland Center for the Arts

The process of selecting photos for the City's annual calendar and the community-sourced nature of the content

Katie's role in supporting residents during the pandemic and dam failure events, and the collaboration with other City departments

30-40 minutes:

The role of city government in promoting livability and community development

Efforts to create a walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly community, including the pedestrian plaza

Importance of community engagement and residents' involvement in shaping the City's future

40-50 minutes:

Discussion of favorite social media accounts and the importance of engaging content

Katie's admiration for the Utah Department of Transportation's creative approach and the impact of Wendy's Twitter account

Emphasis on authenticity and the power of humor in social media marketing

50-60 minutes:

Katie's hopes for Midland's continued momentum and the importance of community involvement

Encouragement for residents to engage in master planning processes and local meetings

Reflections on the personal and professional impact of Katie's work in Midland

In this episode, we sit down with PJ Weaver, the assistant basketball coach at Northwood University. PJ shares his inspiring journey from a late bloomer in basketball to a successful college player, and now a dedicated coach giving back to the next generation. PJ discusses the unique challenges and rewards of transitioning from high school to collegiate coaching, as well as his experiences adapting to life in Midland. Key themes include team culture, the importance of community involvement, and his hopes for the future of Midland.

Wally Mayton, Memorial Presbyterian Church, joined the show to discuss the importance of neighboring. Wally shared how neighboring is about building caring relationships and creating a community where everyone has the ability to thrive. He reflected on raising his family in Midland's welcoming spirit over the past 35+ years. With Neighboring Week coming up Sept 22 - 28, Wally encouraged Midlanders to write each other notes, host block parties, or simply reaching out to get to know your neighbors better. His dream is for Midland to be "a beacon of light" - a beautiful community where no one feels isolated or left out.

Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction Wally Mayton and his background as a pastor in Midland 0:10 - Wally's perspective on what neighboring means and its importance in building community 0:20 - Wally's journey coming to Midland over 35 years ago and raising his family here 0:30 - Wally's children's experiences growing up and attending school in Midland 0:40 - Wally's involvement with the Community Success Panel and the collaborative neighboring spirit 0:50 - Overview of the upcoming Neighboring Week (Sept 22-28) and Wally's participation

Ali Huntoon, owner of Allied Group Fitness and Allied HR Solutions, joins The Max Loves Midland show to discuss her experiences as a business owner in Midland. Ali and the Max Loves Midland Tour Guide, Kevin LaDuke, discuss her journey of starting her businesses during the pandemic, her passion for making fitness accessible and inclusive for all, and her involvement in various community organizations like the Midland Business Alliance, Midland Area Community Foundation, and the City of Midland's Downtown Development Authority. The conversation also covers Ali and Kevin's shared love of concerts as they draft their top 5 favorite live shows they've attended. Join us for this engaging look at Ali's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to making Midland a vibrant, welcoming community.

Timestamps: 0:00 - 10:00 - Ali Huntoon introduces herself as the owner of Allied Group Fitness and Allied HR Solutions. Ali discusses her journey of moving to Midland, Michigan, and starting her own business. 10:00 - 20:00 - Ali shares the challenges of starting her HR business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ali credits the Midland Business Alliance for helping grow her confidence and business. 20:00 - 30:00 - Allie discusses her passion for helping small businesses, stemming from her family background. Ali and Kevin talk about the process of naming her businesses. 30:00 - 40:00. Ali explains the mission behind Allied Group Fitness and making fitness accessible for all. Ali shares her involvement in various community organizations like the Midland Business Alliance. 40:00 - 50:00 - Ali and Kevin discuss their love of music and concerts. They each share their top 5 favorite concert experiences. 50:00 - 60:00 - Allie and Kevin continue talking about their concert bucket lists and dream shows. They reflect on the importance of live music experiences. 60:00 - 70:00 - Ali shares her vision for Midland's future as an inclusive community where everyone thrives. Allie encourages more representation and inclusivity in community decision-making. 

In this episode of Max Loves Midland, the Max Loves Midland Tour Guide, Kevin LaDuke, sits down with Patrick Schefsky, a lawyer with Poznak Dyer Kanar Schefsky Thompson, PLC. 

Highlights include Schefsky sharing his background, from his legal expertise to his theatrical pursuits, and how these two worlds intersect in his work. He discusses the emotional aspects of his practice, particularly in family law, and how he maintains empathy while navigating the complexities of the legal system. Schefsky also reflects on his childhood in Midland, his father's influence, and his return to the community as an adult. Schefsky's passion for Midland shines through throughout the conversation as he shares his vision for the community's future and his involvement in various local organizations. This episode offers a glimpse into the life of a multifaceted Midland resident and his commitment to improving his community.

Timestamps: [0:00 - 10:00] The show begins with Pat Schefsky's introduction and background, including his multiple awards and official titles. Kevin LaDuke welcomes him and they discuss Pat's everyday attire and his birthday. [10:00 - 20:00] The conversation shifts to Pat's legal and theatrical background, including his lawyer work and involvement in local theater productions. They discuss the intersection of his legal and theatrical skills and how being theatrical is essential in litigation. [20:00 - 30:00] Pat talks about the emotional aspects of his work, particularly in family law and divorce cases. In his cases, he describes the challenge of maintaining empathy while being rational and efficient. [30:00 - 40:00] Pat explains how he views the law as a system that combines common law and human behavior, resulting in a "sausage of justice." He reflects on his father's influence and the assumption that he would become a lawyer. [40:00 - 50:00] Pat shares his childhood memories in Midland, including his family's moves to California and Texas. He discusses his father's influence on his life, a shared sense of humor, and public speaking skills. [50:00 - 60:00] Pat talks about his return to Midland and his early theatrical interests inspired by his father. He reflects on the stigma around theater and choir in the late 90s and how it influenced his decision to avoid participating. [60:00 - 70:00] Pat describes his college experience at Albion College, emphasizing the small class sizes and his involvement in a fraternity. He shares how he met his wife, Elizabeth, during his senior year. [70:00 - 80:00] Pat discusses participating in various community organizations, including the Children's Grief Center and Family Children's Services. He shares his experience as an MC for events and his love for the Midland community. [80:00 - 90:00] Pat shares his passion for video games, including his favorite games like "GoldenEye" and "Lay Emperor." He discusses his current gaming setup and his interest in strategy and first-person games. [90:00 - 100:00] Pat expresses his hope for continued support from Dow and the development of downtown Midland. He emphasizes the importance of having more local restaurants and the economic viability of the Great Lakes Bay Region.

Marybeth Penkala joins Max Loves Midland's Tour Guide, Kevin LaDuke, to explore the role of a young professional in the community and how the MYPros (Midland Young Professionals) group is approaching talent, attraction, and retention in Midland County. 

The highlights of this episode are stories about Marybeth's journey to the role of Director of Membership and Partner Engagement at the Midland Business Alliance, her involvement with the Midland Young Professionals (MyPros) group, which aims to attract and retain talent in the area, Marybeth's leadership in crowdfunding initiatives through MyPros to support local businesses, and Marybeth's involvement with various community organizations in Midland as she hopes the community will continue to grow as an inclusive and caring community that supports people, especially the youth, rather than passing judgment.

Timestamps: [:00:00 - 0:10:00] Introduction to Midland Business Alliance and Marybeth Penkala's role [0:10:00 - 0:20:00] Discussion of Midland Young Professionals (MyPros) group and its importance [0:20:00 - 0:30:00] Explanation of MyPros crowdfunding initiatives and community involvement [0:30:00 - 0:40:00] Marybeth's personal background and family life in Midland [0:40:00 - 0:50:00] Reminiscing about favorite childhood TV shows [0:50:00 - 1:00:00] Marybeth's hopes for Midland's future and inclusivity. 

Jazz Benitez joins Kevin LaDuke to talk about art, inclusion, and Ashman Plaza! 

Highlights include a discussion about the role of art in overcoming challenges and pushing beyond comfort zones. They share personal experiences and insights on the importance of embracing identity and creating art that reflects one's experiences. Kevin and Jazz also discuss the significance of public art and murals in Midland, highlighting their power to inspire and bring people together.

Timestamps: 

[0:00 - 10:00] Host Kevin LaDuke introduces the episode and his guest, local artist Jazz Benitez. Jazz discusses their diverse roles within the Ashman Plaza community, including working at Live Oak. Jazz opens up about their artistic journey and overcoming challenges to embrace their identity as an artist. [10:00 - 20:00] Jazz shares details about their public art murals around Midland, which have become visible parts of the community. Jazz reflects on finding a sense of community and identity in Midland after moving from California. [20:00 - 30:00] Jazz discusses other art projects they've worked on in the Great Lakes Bay region and beyond. Jazz talks about enjoying Midland's parks and nature with their dog. [30:00 - 40:00] Jazz shares information about the Blue Light venue. Jazz expresses their hopes for the continued growth and inclusivity of the Midland community.

Brandon Lewis joins the Max Loves Midland Tour Guide, Kevin LaDuke, to talk about all things real estate, fashion, and Midland! 

Highlights include Brandon's personal branding as the "Dapper Agent" and his journey growing up in Midland, Michigan, including his experiences with sports, family, and community involvement. He shares his transition from working at Dow to becoming a real estate agent, using social media and humor to promote his business. The conversation also covers the housing and growth challenges in Midland, as well as Brandon and Kevin's shared passion for sneaker culture and the legacy of Michael Jordan. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of authenticity, community, and celebrating diversity in Midland.

Timestamps: 

[0:00 - 10:00] Brandon Lewis discusses his personal branding as the "Dapper Agent" and his experiences growing up in Midland, Michigan after moving from Flint. He talks about the cultural shock of being one of the few Black students in his school and how basketball helped him connect with the community. [10:00 - 20:00] Lewis shares stories about his family, including his mother homeschooling him and his transition from working at Dow to becoming a real estate agent. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and giving back to the Midland community. [20:00 - 30:00] The conversation shifts to Lewis' real estate career and his approach to marketing and connecting with clients. He discusses the housing needs and growth in Midland, as well as the city's appeal as a location. [30:00 - 45:00] Kevin LaDuke and Brandon Lewis bond over their shared love of sneaker culture, reminiscing about their experiences at the Midland Mall and going through a "draft" of their top 5 favorite sneaker releases. [45:00 - 60:00] The hosts discuss Michael Jordan's legacy and impact on basketball and culture, as well as the Detroit Pistons' recent struggles. They conclude by discussing their hopes for the continued growth and inclusivity of the Midland community.

Brad Tunney, Voice of the Great Lakes Loons and Manager of 100.9 The Mitt, discusses people development and retention with Max Loves Midland Tour Guide, Kevin LaDuke. 

The key highlights of this episode include Brad Tunney's 10-year career as the voice of the Great Lakes Loons minor league baseball team, his passion for broadcasting and the importance of the Loons ballpark and radio station to the Midland community, his unique experiences creating an engaging atmosphere for fans, his unexpected journey from youth soccer player to professional baseball broadcaster, his high school broadcasting experiences and the unique setup of the Loons, the benefits of living in Midland including proximity to other cities, his NBA fandom and the Detroit Pistons, his favorite baseball announcers, the strong leadership and teamwork at the radio station and ballpark, and Tunney and LaDuke's desire to develop a new community space in Midland.

Timestamps:

[0:00 - 10:00] Brad Tunney discusses his 10-year career as the voice of the Great Lakes Loons minor league baseball team, including the pressure of speaking in front of a live audience and his journey to Midland, Michigan. [10:00 - 20:00] Tunney shares his passion for broadcasting and how he found potential for full-time work in Midland, as well as the importance of the Loons ballpark and radio station to the local community. [20:00 - 30:00] Tunney talks about developing his deep voice for broadcasting and the unique experiences he creates for fans, including recognition from kids and a fun atmosphere in the broadcast booth. [30:00 - 40:00] Tunney and LaDuke discuss the value of radio broadcasting in creating unique experiences for fans at the ballpark, as well as their own experiences as only children. [40:00 - 50:00] Tunney recounts his unexpected journey from youth soccer player to professional baseball broadcaster, including his naivety about baseball terminology and rapid learning. [50:00 - 1:00:00] Tunney shares his high school broadcasting experiences and career progression, as well as the unique setup of the Great Lakes Loons and its radio broadcast. [1:00:00 - 1:10:00] Tunney and LaDuke discuss the benefits of living in Midland, including proximity to other cities and airports, as well as their NBA fandom and the Detroit Pistons. [1:10:00 - 1:20:00] The two discuss their favorite baseball announcers and the importance of developing local talent in sports broadcasting. [1:20:00 - 1:30:00] Tunney and LaDuke reflect on the leadership and teamwork at the radio station and ballpark, as well as their desire to develop a new community space in Midland.