The BOBcast

The BOBcast

By Henry Ford HealthSociety & CultureBusinessHistoryManagement
Download on the App Store

The BOBcast episodes

  • Richard Czuba: 40 Years of Reading Michigan's Political Pulse

    What if the loudest voices in politics aren't actually the ones that matter? On this episode of The BOBcast, Bob Riney sits down with Richard Czuba, founder of The Glengariff Group and one of Michigan's most respected nonpartisan pollsters, for a candid conversation recorded live at the Mackinac Policy Conference. Richard pulls back the curtain on how genuine, unbiased research has shaped some of Michigan's most consequential policy decisions -- from gun safety laws passed after the Michigan State shooting to the data driving today's affordability crisis -- while exposing the gap between what social media amplifies and what voters actually think. It's a sobering, clarifying look at how Michigan can find common ground in an era defined by division, told by the man whose data has quietly guided the conversation for over four decades.

    Time Stamps

    Richard Czuba's Role in Michigan Politics
    :20- Bob Riney introduces Richard Czuba, highlighting his influence on Michigan's political landscape and his nonpartisan approach.
    :58- Bob discusses Richard’s role in shaping significant ballot proposals, including the Michigan stem cell ballot proposal in 2008 and the personal property tax reform proposal in 2014.
    1:55- Richard emphasizes the importance of listening to all voices and delivering accurate research, not partisan opinions.

    Independence in Polling
    2:17- Richard Czuba explains how he ensures his independence in polling by delivering both good and bad news to clients.
    2:58- He discusses the importance of understanding the full spectrum of voter opinions, not just whether they support or oppose an issue.
    3:40- Bob and Richard discuss the role of social media in shaping public opinion, particularly on issues like data centers.
    4:18- Richard highlights the need to address the specific concerns of voters, such as higher electricity bills and water use, to open a conversation.

    Impact of Independent Research
    5:05- Richard Czuba shares an example of how independent research helped drive gun safety legislation in Michigan after the Michigan State University shooting.
    5:21- He explains how his survey on gun safety issues influenced the state legislature to pass three gun protection laws.
    6:11- Bob and Richard discuss the importance of objective polling in a divisive political climate.
    7:03- Richard emphasizes the need for voters to make decisions based on their concerns, not polling results, and the importance of transparency in polling data.

    Challenges in Policy and Polling
    8:01- Richard reflects on his experience as an advisor to Michigan's governor, highlighting the challenges and successes of policy-making.
    8:28- He discusses the importance of understanding how policy is shaped and the role of successful leaders like John Engler and Gretchen Whitmer.
    8:42- Bob and Richard discuss the impact of social media on political campaigns and the need for critical thinking skills.
    8:57- Richard emphasizes the importance of seeing both sides of the conversation in media and the challenges of siloed information.

    Affordability Crisis in Michigan
    11:03- Richard identifies affordability as a major concern for Michigan voters, affecting food prices, gas prices, and home operating costs.
    11:29- He explains the connection between the affordability crisis and declining per capita income in Michigan.
    12:09- Richard advises political leaders to focus on solutions rather than blaming parties for the current state of affairs.

    Voter Turnout and Political Engagement
    13:33- Richard discusses the factors influencing voter turnout, particularly anger and dissatisfaction with the current administration.
    14:04- He highlights the unusual turnout patterns seen in recent elections, such as the special election in Senate District 35.

    15 min
  • Regine Beauboeuf: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers

    What does it take to become the first woman ever to lead one of North America's most historic border crossings, and why would someone walk away from retirement to do it? On this episode of The BOBcast, host Bob Riney sits down with Regine Beauboeuf, CEO of American Roads and the first woman to run the 95-year-old Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, to trace her journey from a childhood in Haiti to the front lines of major infrastructure projects like the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Regine opens up about the mentors who shaped her: her father's discipline, her mother's compassion, and how a "creative laziness" in chemistry class nudged her toward a four-decade engineering career instead. She reflects candidly on what it means to be "the first," why she's determined to make sure she isn't the last, and how nearly 1,600 healthcare workers cross the tunnel daily, binding Detroit and Windsor into one true regional community. It's a conversation about borders, resilience, and the surprising ways infrastructure connects not just cities, but people's lives.

    Time Stamps

    Career Path
    2:06- Regine described growing up in Haiti, learning leadership from her father and compassion from her mother, and beginning engineering-related work as her father’s administrative assistant at age 10.
    3:41- Her fluency in English, French, and Creole supported international work, including an expatriate assignment in Montreal on Quebec’s first public-private partnership project.

    Regional Connections
    4:47- The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel supports a shared regional community, with about 1,600 healthcare workers using it daily and an exchange of people, innovation, services, and skills.
    6:15- Regine worked on the Gordie Howe International Bridge beginning in 2000, including feasibility studies and preliminary engineering. She later supported efforts related to financing and project delivery.

    Tunnel Leadership
    7:30- The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel opened in 1930 and marked its 95th anniversary. Regine emphasized its engineering significance, reliability, safety, maintenance, and preservation.
    10:13- As the first woman CEO of American Roads, she is focused on modernizing the tunnel, improving technology use, and helping employees embrace a new vision.

    Leadership Advice
    11:00- Regine mentors others and wants to help create future second, third, fourth, and fifth women leaders in transportation.
    11:36- Her advice to early-career professionals is to avoid competing with others, focus on personal growth, and aim to be better today than yesterday.

    Personal Life
    12:00- Regine enjoys travel, including visits to Bali, France, and Paris, and also makes scented candles when time permits.

    14 min
  • Mayor Mary Sheffield: Making History Was Just The Start

    What if the real measure of a city's growth isn't cranes in the skyline, but how many families it lifts out of poverty? That's the challenge Detroit's first female mayor, Mary Sheffield, poses on this episode of The BOBcast with host Bob Riney. Six months into historic office, Sheffield reflects on property tax reform, a citywide survey of 6,000 residents, and a new Office of Neighborhood and Community Safety built to address gun violence. She opens up about the personal toll of leadership, the activist legacy of her father and grandfather, and why she believes purpose, not politics, should drive public service. It's a candid conversation about power, poverty, and what it really takes to rebuild a city from the inside out.

    Time Stamps
    First six months
    :20- Bob Riney introduced Mayor Mary Sheffield as Detroit’s first female mayor, former youngest Detroit City Council member at age 26, and later the youngest council president.
    2:22- Mary Sheffield said election night was when the reality of becoming mayor fully set in.
    2:58- She described the first six months as effective and inclusive, shaped by a transition process, first 100-day priorities, and input from more than 6,000 Detroiters.
    3:17- Early policy actions included an executive order on fairer property assessments and another creating the Office of Neighborhood and Community Safety.

    Leadership Philosophy
    4:14- Mary Sheffield said confidence comes from execution and described her framework as purpose, preparation, and practice.
    5:20- She argued that people with integrity should lean into public service despite political division and attacks on leadership.

    Growth and Development
    6:11- Mary Sheffield said Detroit must treat poverty reduction, workforce development, and upward economic mobility as core growth strategies.
    7:25- She and Bob discuss the Henry Ford Health campus expansion as a healthcare anchor, job creator, and major economic opportunity.
    8:13- She also stressed the need to connect schools and community colleges to workforce pipelines.

    Governance and Safety
    8:43- Mary Sheffield said her existing relationships with City Council have supported productive collaboration.
    9:48- On public safety, she said even with record low crime trends, one life lost is too many, and she emphasized prevention, enforcement, and family support after gun violence.

    Long-Term Vision
    10:52- Her top long-term priorities are property tax reform and raising Detroit residents’ median income.
    11:44- She described Detroit’s appeal to young talent through affordability, culture, riverfront access, entertainment, and jobs, while noting transportation as an area that still needs improvement.
    12:40- She closed with reflections on her father and grandfather’s influence, her grounding in public service, and the role of family, sports, fitness, and comedy in her personal life.

    15 min
  • Devin Scillian: Music, Writing and the Power of Storytelling

    What happens when one of Michigan's most trusted voices steps away from the anchor desk and speaks his mind without a script? On this episode of The BOBcast, recorded at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, Bob Riney sits down with Devin Scillian, beloved WDIV anchor, award-winning author, musician, and one of the most recognizable faces in Michigan journalism, for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about the state of our state, the crisis facing modern journalism, and the power of storytelling to unite a divided nation. Devin opens up about Michigan's political whiplash, the dangerous disconnect between how Michiganders see themselves and where the state actually stands, and why truth, even when it's uncomfortable, must remain the North Star of journalism. From the anchor desk to the stage, from children's books written after midnight to a song born from the rubble of war, Devin Scillian reminds us that Detroit and Michigan have always needed great storytellers, and that we need them now more than ever.

    Time Stamps

    Devin Scillian's Multifaceted Career
    :22- Bob Riney introduces Devin Scillian, highlighting his diverse career as a journalist, author, musician, and actor.
    2:26- Devin shares his love for storytelling, comparing his career to an abstract painting, where all his endeavors are interconnected.
    2:50- He discusses his journalistic hero, Homer, and his fascination with storytelling, both fiction and non-fiction.

    Michigan's Political and Economic Challenges

    3:52- Bob and Devin discuss the political dynamics in Michigan, particularly the "purple conundrum" and the whiplash effect of political changes.
    4:40- Devin highlights the economic impact of policy changes, using the example of film incentives to illustrate the whiplash effect.
    5:25- They discuss the need for Michigan to focus on forward-thinking strategies rather than nostalgically looking back.
    5:45- Devin mentions a poll showing a disconnect between Michigan's actual status and the perception of its residents.

    Mackinac Policy Conference and Personal Reflections

    6:19- Bob and Devin discuss their experiences at the Mackinac Policy Conference, including the excitement around the Final Four and the achievements of Michigan's Olympic athletes.
    8:04- Devin reflects on his transition from being a news anchor to focusing on writing, music, and other creative pursuits.

    The State of Journalism and Media Consumption

    9:20- Bob and Devin discuss the challenges facing journalism, including the blurred lines between journalism, infotainment, and AI.
    11:24- Devin emphasizes the importance of truth and accuracy in journalism and the need for vigilance on the part of consumers.

    Devin Scillian's Musical Journey

    11:32- Bob and Devin discuss Devin's career as a musician, including his favorite song, "A Tattered Little Shoe," inspired by a child's shoe found during the Iraq War.
    13:08- They discuss the importance of acoustics in music venues and Devin's experiences playing in different locations, including a music theater in Lexington and Veterans Park in Saint Clair Shores.
    13:50- Devin shares a humorous anecdote about a friend who moved Bob Riney to the back of the house during a performance.

    15 min
  • Kim Montague and Ryan Sullivan: Building Detroit into the City of the Future

    What if the most powerful thing a city can build isn't a building at all, but a connection? In this episode of The BOBcast, Bob Riney sits down with Kim Montague, president and CEO of Albert Kahn Associates, and Ryan Sullivan, CEO of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, to explore how design and public space are reshaping Detroit's future. Kim shares the personal story behind her path into healthcare architecture and what it means to lead as the firm's first female CEO, while Ryan reflects on his family's generations-deep ties to the riverfront and the vision driving its continued transformation. Together, they make the case that Detroit's comeback isn't accidental; it's the product of deliberate, community-centered design.

    Time Stamps

    Introduction and Guest Backgrounds
    :20- Bob Riney introduces the podcast and welcomes Kim Montague, President and CEO of Albert Kahn Associates, and Ryan Sullivan, CEO of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy.
    :36- Bob highlights Kim's achievements, including her role as the first female CEO of Albert Kahn Associates and her work with the Detroit American Heart Association and Women in Healthcare Michigan.
    1:18- Bob also mentions Ryan's family legacy with the Detroit River and his role at Watershed Horizons, focusing on energy and infrastructure solutions.
    1:47- The collaboration between Albert Kahn Associates and the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is noted, particularly their work on the award-winning Riverfront Design in 2019.

    Kim Montague on Healthcare Design and Detroit's Future

    2:46- Bob asks Kim about the importance of world-class hospitals like Henry Ford Health's Destination Grand for a city like Detroit.
    3:00- Kim discusses the significance of Henry Ford's investment in the community and the firm's long-term presence in Detroit.
    3:30- Bob shifts the focus to Ryan, asking about his favorite aspect of the new Detroit Riverfront.
    3:42- Ryan emphasizes the connectivity of the riverfront, highlighting the fully connected river walk from the east to the west side.

    Ryan Sullivan on Riverfront Transformation

    4:11- Bob inquires about the transformation of the Detroit Riverfront from an industrial area to a popular destination.
    4:30- Ryan reflects on the historical context of his great-grandfathers' work along the river and the community's pride in the current riverfront.
    5:02- Bob asks about the international experiences Kim has had with Albert Kahn and how they can be applied to Detroit.
    5:21- Kim shares insights from her time in the Netherlands, Japan, and Brazil, noting the importance of public spaces and healthcare continuum.

    Community Engagement and Future Plans

    6:10- Bob discusses the design of public spaces and their intended audience, asking Ryan about the community engagement strategies for the riverfront.
    6:38- Ryan explains the riverfront's inclusivity, with diverse visitors and purpose-built community engagement strategies.
    7:09- Bob asks Ryan about his dream list for the riverfront's future development.
    7:28- Ryan mentions upcoming projects like the Renaissance Center development and the WNBA project, predicting significant investment and activation in the next five to ten years.

    Kim Montague's Journey and Role Modeling

    7:55- Bob asks Kim about her personal connection to healthcare design, leading to her commitment to designing respectful and humanistic spaces.
    8:05- Kim shares her story of becoming an architect after failing organic chemistry and her experience with her mother's illness, which inspired her to focus on healthcare design.
    9:13- Bob asks Kim about her message to young girls aspiring to break the glass ceiling in traditionally non-welcoming fields.
    9:43- Kim emphasizes the importance of persistence, having a great mentor, and mentoring others to achieve personal and professional success.

    Detroit vs. New York and Personal Pride

    11:02- Bob asks Ryan about his perspective on Detroit compared to New York City, highlighting Detroit's opportunities and creativity.
    11:31- Ryan discusses the professional growth and freedom found in Detroit, contrasting it with the crowded and competitive environment of New York.
    12:14- Bob asks each guest about their proudest achievements.
    12:20- Kim highlights Albert Kahn's roots in Detroit and her personal involvement in the community, mentoring young architects.
    13:26- Ryan shares his pride in the opening of Wilson Park, reflecting on his great-grandfathers' contributions to the riverfront and the significance of the project.

    Conclusion and Gratitude

    14:06- Bob expresses gratitude to Kim and Ryan for their contributions to Detroit and The BOBcast.

    15 min
  • Connor Hellebuyck: Michigan's Olympic Hero on Hockey, Leadership, and What Comes Next

    What does it take to make 41 saves in an Olympic gold medal game and what can it teach us about leadership? In this episode of The BOBcast, recorded at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, Bob Riney sits down with Commerce Township native and USA Hockey legend Connor Hellebuyck, whose extraordinary performance in the 2026 Winter Olympics delivered America's first men's hockey gold medal since 1980. Connor opens up about the rare mental state he experienced the morning of the gold medal game, the iconic stick save that stopped Canada's best, and the deep belief in himself that shaped his entire journey from Michigan street hockey to the Olympic podium. Connor's story is more than a sports triumph; it's a reminder of the unbreakable passion, community, and pride that defines Michigan and continues to inspire the next generation of champions.

    Time Stamps

    Connor Hellebuyck's Journey to Olympic Glory

    :33- Bob Riney introduces Connor Hellebuyck, highlighting his achievement as the best goaltender at the Winter Olympics and his Michigan roots.
    1:59- Connor describes the emotions of skating out for Team USA at the Olympics for the first time, feeling adrenaline and excitement.
    2:53- Connor talks about unique experience of playing in front of a mixed crowd at the Olympics, similar to college tournament games.
    3:42- Connor shares the special feeling of patriotism and support from USA fans during the Olympics.

    The Unique Atmosphere of the Olympics

    4:00- Bob and Connor discuss the patriotism and excitement at the Olympics, which is different from an NHL game.
    4:51- Connor recalls the morning of the final game, feeling confident and calm, which he attributes to his good performance and team's play.
    5:27- Bob and Connor reflect on the iconic stick save in the gold medal game.
    6:35- Connor reflects on being named the best goaltender at the Olympics, emphasizing the importance of celebrating with his team.

    Team Dynamics and Legacy

    7:03- Connor describes the chemistry and grit of the team that captured the gold medal, focusing on the team's unity rather than individual accolades.
    7:28- Connor speaks to the significance of the USA winning an Olympic gold in men's hockey since.
    7:58- Connor shares his realization of being in the role of a legend, similar to players he idolized growing up.
    8:29- Connor talks of the experience of sharing the victory with hockey legends and the overall impact of the win.

    Return to Winnipeg and Early Hockey Influences

    8:51- Connor talks about the animosity from Winnipeg fans after defeating Team Canada, acknowledging the city's passion for hockey.
    9:22- Connor recalls his early hockey influences, including family street hockey games and the hockey boom in Detroit.
    10:09- Connor explains his transition to becoming a goalie in street hockey, influenced by his older brother.

    Leadership and Future Aspirations

    10:53- Connor reflects on the different forms of leadership, emphasizing the importance of confidence and hard work.
    11:30- He expresses interest in coaching in the future, drawing from his experience teaching young kids at Puck Masters.
    12:25- Connor advises young hockey players to truly believe in themselves and their goals, which shapes their path and work ethic.
    13:15- The impact of Michigan's strong hockey culture and the passion of Michiganders for sports is highlighted.

    Non-Hockey Interests and Family Support

    14:24- Connor shares his hobby of bass fishing tournaments, which might surprise people given his hockey mask at the Olympics.
    14:43- He talks about the importance of family support in his journey, while thanking his wife for her role in raising their kids and providing stability.
    15:20- Bob praises Connor for his achievements, leadership, and representation of Michigan.

    16 min
  • Kirk Gibson & Steve Annear: Parkinson's, Purpose and the Power of Never Giving Up

    What if the greatest comeback of Kirk Gibson's life had nothing to do with baseball? From iconic World Series moments to a Parkinson's diagnosis that threatened to sideline him, Gibson shares how resilience, purpose, and refusing to quit led to a new mission: helping others live well with the disease. In this episode, Bob Riney leads a discussion with Gibson and Steve Annear, CEO of the Kirk Gibson Foundation, on the groundbreaking Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson's Wellness, the power of community, and why hope may be the most important medicine of all.

    Time Stamps

    Kirk Gibson's Introduction and MLB Career Highlights
    :34- Bob Riney introduces Kirk Gibson, highlighting his achievements in baseball and his work with the Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson's Wellness.
    2:12- Kirk reflects on his MLB career, emphasizing the importance of resilience and being there for teammates.
    2:34- Kirk recounts a pivotal moment in 1987 when the Tigers swept the Blue Jays, despite being down by four and a half games with a week left in the season.
    3:52- Bob asks Kirk about his favorite stadiums to play at, and Kirk mentions Dodger Stadium and Tiger Stadium as his favorites.

    Kirk Gibson's Parkinson's Diagnosis and Personal Journey

    4:41- Bob shifts the conversation to Kirk's personal journey, including his diagnosis of Parkinson's in 2015.
    4:50- Kirk describes his first symptoms in 2007 and how his condition progressed over the years, leading to his diagnosis in 2015.
    5:28- Kirk shares his experience of being ignored by the Diamondbacks due to health concerns and how a friend's doctor eventually diagnosed him with Parkinson's.
    6:22- Kirk emphasizes the importance of providing hope and a path to quality of life for those with Parkinson's.

    Steve Annear's Role and the Vision for the Center

    6:32- Bob introduces Steve Annear, CEO of the Kirk Gibson Foundation and chairman of the Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson's Wellness.
    7:05- Steve discusses the vision for the center, which began with Kirk's challenge to do more for people with Parkinson's in Michigan.
    7:18- Steve explains the limited availability of care for Parkinson's and the importance of movement-based programs in slowing down the symptoms.
    7:55- The center's partnership with an organization in Cleveland called In Motion helped them understand best practices and led to the decision to open the wellness center in 2023.

    Kirk Gibson's Leadership and the Center's Impact

    8:31- Bob asks Steve about Kirk's leadership qualities, highlighting his relentlessness and focus on filling the gap in care for people with Parkinson's.
    8:58- Steve praises Kirk for his dedication and the impact he has on the community, emphasizing the importance of never giving in.
    10:13- Kirk discusses the need to prove the center's credibility as a care option and the importance of a preventative approach to Parkinson's.
    10:54- Kirk outlines ways people can support the center, including telling others about the center, fundraising, and volunteering.

    Kirk Gibson's Take on the Tigers and Final Thoughts

    11:35- Bob asks Kirk about his thoughts on the current Tigers team and who he is watching closely.
    11:49- Kirk expresses excitement about Kevin McGonigal and other young players in the organization, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.
    13:13- Kirk reflects on the joy of winning a World Series and the positive impact it has on a city, drawing parallels to the work being done at the center.
    13:49- Bob Riney thanks Kirk and Steve for their contributions and leadership, concluding the episode of The BOBcast.

    15 min
  • Sandy Baruah: Finding Common Ground to Move Michigan Forward

    Sandy Baruah is President & CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber, and in this episode, he joins Bob for a candid conversation about leadership, relationships and the future of Michigan. Drawing on his experience in Washington, D.C. and years spent navigating the intersection of business, policy and economic development, Sandy shares how those experiences prepared him to lead one of the nation’s most influential regional chambers. Bob and Sandy also discuss the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference and this year’s theme: A Quest for Common Ground. From economic competitiveness and talent retention to collaboration across industries and ideologies, the conversation explores what it will take for Michigan to move forward. It’s a thoughtful, timely discussion about leadership, trust, civic responsibility, and why relationships still matter more than ever.

    Time Stamps

    Sandy Baruah's Journey and Role at the Detroit Regional Chamber
    :17- Bob Riney introduces Sandy Baruah, highlighting his role as President and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber since 2010.
    1:58- Sandy shares his experience working in Washington, DC, starting at 20 years old for a US Senator and later for Presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.
    3:02- Bob asks Sandy about the impact of his Washington experience on his current role, to which Sandy responds that it taught him perspective and when to push and when not to.
    3:21- Sandy reflects on his introverted nature and wishes he had been more social during his time in Washington.

    Defining Success at the Mackinac Policy Conference

    3:36- Bob inquires about Sandy's definition of a successful Mackinac Policy Conference.
    3:48- Sandy hopes that attendees leave with new perspectives and open to new ideas, reducing polarization in American society.
    5:25- Bob and Sandy discuss the strategic choice of the island, which isolates attendees from their daily routines, promoting focused engagement.

    Excitement for Gary Sinise's Participation

    6:36- Bob asks Sandy about the speakers he is most excited to hear at the conference.
    6:49- Sandy expresses his enthusiasm for Gary Sinise, who will bring a different perspective to the conference, focusing on patriotism and veterans' issues.
    7:10- Bob and Sandy agree that finding common ground on supporting veterans is crucial.
    8:04- Sandy highlights the importance of relationships in policy and business, and the potential for attendees to form new connections and friendships.

    Themes and Goals for the Mackinac Policy Conference

    8:28- Bob and Sandy discuss the theme of "common ground" and its relevance in today's polarized society.
    8:54- Sandy hopes that attendees will return with a renewed commitment to finding common ground on various challenges facing Michigan.

    Future Prospects and Collaboration

    10:14- Sandy discuss the importance of accountability and big ideas in driving Michigan's future prosperity.
    10:54- Sandy compares the adoption of new technologies to policy change, emphasizing the importance of early adopters and fast followers.
    11:34- Bob encourages local and national listeners to pay attention to the conference and its impact on Michigan's future.

    13 min
  • Jeff Daniels: Michigan Roots Shape Everything

    From small-town Michigan to the global stage, Jeff Daniels has built a career defined by remarkable range, making audiences laugh in "Dumb and Dumber" as much as he moves them in "To Kill a Mockingbird." Despite decades of success across film, television, and theater, his connection to Michigan has remained constant, shaping both his life and his work.

    In this episode, Jeff reflects on why he chose to stay rooted in his home state, how he navigates roles across genres, and the discipline behind performances in projects like "Gettysburg" and "The Newsroom." He also shares insights from portraying complex historical and political figures, along with his experience in his upcoming film, "The Brink of War," which revisits the pivotal Reagan-Gorbachev meeting during the Cold War's Reykjavik Summit in 1986.

    Blending humor, craft, and perspective, Jeff discusses storytelling as both an art and a responsibility, from delivering a famous Aaron Sorkin monologue to writing and performing his own music. The conversation ultimately reveals an artist grounded in authenticity and purpose, embodying the same resilience and forward-looking spirit that continues to define Michigan and Detroit’s future.

    Time Stamps

    Jeff Daniels' Family Adventure and Introduction to The BOBCast

    :00- Jeff Daniels shares a humorous anecdote about forgetting his wife at a truck stop while driving an RV to the Baseball Hall of Fame.
    :20 Bob Riney highlights Jeff’s diverse career in film, television, and theater, including his roles in "Dumb and Dumber," "The Martian," "Terms of Endearment," and his Emmy-winning performance in "The Newsroom."

    Jeff Daniels' Commitment to Michigan

    1:52- Bob asks Jeff about his decision to stay in Michigan, despite opportunities in other states.
    2:07- Jeff explains that Michigan has always felt like home, even when he was in New York for work and that his wife's family roots in Marquette and their annual visits to the Upper Peninsula.

    Jeff Daniels' Diverse Roles and Challenges

    2:56- Bob inquiries about Jeff's favorite roles, and Jeff mentions playing Chamberlain in "Gettysburg" as a significant challenge.
    3:50- Jeff shares a story about rehearsing with his co-stars, including playing golf to bond with his on-screen brother.
    4:48- Jeff discusses the political nature of his roles, such as playing Will McAvoy in "The Newsroom," and how Aaron Sorkin's writing is influenced by real-life political insights.
    6:39- Jeff recounts the process of learning and delivering a pivotal speech in "The Newsroom," which was added to the script at the last minute.

    Jeff Daniels' Leadership and Social Issues

    8:35- Bob asks Jeff about his role as a leader and his opinions on social and political issues.
    8:48- Jeff expresses a desire to be on the right side of history and mentions the importance of common decency and the rule of law and reflects on his upbringing and the values instilled by his parents, which guide his actions today.

    Jeff Daniels' Upcoming Movie “The Brink of War”

    9:38- Bob asks Jeff about his upcoming movie which portrays the 1986 summit between Reagan and Gorbachev.
    9:54- Jeff describes the process of recreating the summit in the same house where it originally took place, with the support of the people of Reykjavik, and shares his experience of preparing for the role of Reagan, including listening to Reagan's speeches for months.

    Jeff Daniels' Versatility and Musical Journey

    11:55- Bob asks Jeff about his favorite genre and the joy he finds in different aspects of his career.
    12:09- Jeff expresses his love for live theater and performing with an acoustic guitar, describing it as a natural and creative experience.
    12:46- Jeff discusses his one-man show, which includes writing, directing, and performing, and the impact of his song "Road Signs."
    12:55- Jeff shares a humorous story from his song "Recreational Vehicle," which is part of his live show.

    Jeff Daniels' Final Thoughts and Bob Cast Conclusion

    14:01- Bob reflects on Jeff's versatility, leadership, and depth of thinking, drawing parallels to the challenges faced by leaders in healthcare and other industries.

    15 min
  • Dr. Rana Awdish: When Doctors Become Patients - Lessons in Humanity & Healing

    Dr. Rana Awdish is one of Detroit’s most remarkable medical voices, helping redefine what compassionate care looks like at Henry Ford Health and beyond. After surviving a near-fatal medical crisis that took the life of her unborn child, she returned to medicine determined to change how doctors connect with patients and families. Now a physician leader, author of the bestselling memoir In Shock, and national voice on empathy in healthcare, she is helping shape a culture where healing means more than clinical outcomes. In this episode, she shares with Bob Riney how her experiences are helping transform the way clinicians interact with and provide care for patients.

    Time Stamps

    Dr. Rana Awdish's Journey and Impact on Healthcare

    :15- Bob introduces Dr. Rana Awdish, highlighting her roles, achievements, and upcoming book "Aftershock."
    1:56- Dr. Awdish shares her critical illness experience during her fellowship, which led her to focus on emotional and psychological aspects of patient care.
    3:08- Bob and Dr. Awdish discuss the importance of teaching communication skills in medicine, beyond just medical knowledge.
    3:42- Dr. Awdish emphasizes the need for physicians to be fully human and emotionally connected to their patients, which was previously discouraged.

    Challenges and Receptivity in Advocating for Change

    4:18- Dr. Awdish talks about the common critique that her advocacy takes too much time, which she refutes by showing that it actually increases efficiency.
    4:48- Bob inquires about the reaction of Henry Ford Health to Dr. Awdish's reflections on the organization in her first book.
    5:42- Dr. Awdish recounts the advice from her attorney and the decision to stand by her unedited work, which led to a positive response from the organization.
    6:39- Bob expresses pride in Henry Ford Health's willingness to embrace change for the betterment of patients and communities.

    Blending Work and Life Post-Trauma

    7:03- Bob observes that Dr. Awdish has found a synergistic balance between work and life, which she attributes to her gratitude for recovery.
    7:22- Dr. Awdish shares a memory of driving back to work after her illness, feeling grateful for the opportunity to care for patients and maintain a sense of gratitude.
    8:19- Bob and Dr. Awdish discuss the importance of communication in the relationship between providers and patients, which can significantly impact outcomes.
    8:40- Dr. Awdish provides examples of how rephrasing medical communication can redistribute power and respect to patients and their families.

    Evolution of Medical Education and Nurse-Physician Partnership

    9:26- Bob asks about the progress of medical schools in providing contemporary learning experiences that align with Dr. Awdish's teachings.
    9:38- Dr. Awdish notes that medical schools are improving, with more intentional team-based training and selection of students with high emotional intelligence.
    10:00- Bob inquires about the evolving role of nurses in partnership with physicians, which Dr. Awdish praises for their whole-person care approach.
    10:12- Dr. Awdish highlights the importance of nurses in providing comprehensive care and integrating various inputs into the medical care plan.

    Upcoming Book "Aftershock" and Personal Healing

    11:28- Dr. Awdish discusses her motivation for writing "Aftershock," which focuses on the emotional and psychological aspects of healing beyond medical care.
    11:41- She reflects on her initial reliance on medicine for healing and the importance of taking responsibility for emotional healing and recovery.
    12:06- Dr. Awdish hopes that the book will inspire patients and doctors to recognize the body's healing potential and the importance of stories in the healing process.
    12:50- Bob expresses gratitude for Dr. Awdish's impact on medicine and her role in evolving healthcare practices at Henry Ford Health.

    15 min

About The BOBcast

From the publisher's feed

The BOBcast is a podcast dedicated to Detroit’s future and where crucial conversations and big ideas come to life. Hosted by Bob Riney, President and CEO of Henry Ford Health, The BOBcast tackles…