What do solar policy, Thanksgiving parades, and custom ceramics have in common? In this episode you’ll meet Rachel Stewart, President and CEO of Gardner White, who’s shaking up the furniture world and having a blast doing it. From launching a bold new retail concept in downtown Detroit to teaming up with local art students from the College for Creative Studies, Rachel brings grit, grace, and serious style to everything she touches. She opens up about family business dynamics, her D.C. days, and why counting laps in a pool keeps her sane.

:52- Bob Riney introduces Rachel Stewart, President and CEO of Gardner White, a family-owned furniture business in Michigan
1:27- Rachel expresses her excitement about the new retail concept, GW Home, opening in downtown Detroit
1:39- The new store will focus on urban living styles with a range of price points and feature local Detroit artists
2:26- Rachel emphasizes the importance of incorporating local Detroit talent, including ceramicists and artists
2:51- Bob mentions Gardner White's long-standing sponsorship of the America's Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit
3:25- Rachel shares her pride in continuing this Detroit tradition
4:12- Bob asks Rachel to reflect on her political experience in Washington, DC, and how it influenced her current role at Gardner White
4:41- She discusses the importance of economic development and manufacturing in Michigan, drawing parallels to her work in clean energy and technology
6:07- She shares data from the University of Michigan, showing that positive interactions with salespeople significantly impact customer perception
6:47- Rachel emphasizes the importance of skilled and informed sales teams in providing a superior customer experience
7:17- Rachel discusses the rarity of female CEOs in the furniture industry and the importance of having women in key buying positions
8:00- Rachel shares her approach to integrating online shopping with in-store experiences to enhance the overall shopping experience
8:52- Rachel reflects on the unique challenges of leading a family business and the importance of communication and shared vision
9:30- Rachel mentions the support of a world-class leadership team and their commitment to Detroit
9:40- Bob points out Rachel’s involvement in various influential boards in the Detroit area where she emphasizes the importance of engagement and impact in the city
10:29- Rachel discusses her focus on economic development and education as key issues for the state
11:00- She shares her perspective on social media and the importance of setting a positive example for her children
11:14- Rachel shares her personal interests, including swimming and running, as ways to center herself amidst chaos
11:42- She provides advice to her children, encouraging them to try new things and not be afraid to fail and emphasizes the importance of finding good mentors and the impact they can have on one's career
12:35- Bob reflects on his conversation with Rachel and the traits that make her a great leader

Gary Torgow could have built a successful career in law, but he knew he was meant for a different path. The Chairman of Huntington National Bank and a Detroit native, Gary has never forgotten where he came from – channeling his passion into bold investments for underserved communities, helping families buy their first home, and creating opportunities where they are needed most. In this episode, Bob dives into Gary’s unexpected journey, his deep community roots, and the powerful story behind his civil rights tour through Selma to remind business leaders of what real progress demands.

:13- Bob Riney welcomes listeners to the episode
1:28- Gary Torgow was raised primarily by his grandparents, who had a “spectacular influence” on his life
2:31- Gary walks us through his unexpected journal from Law School to buying America’s smallest bank and turning it into a $2 billion financial institution
4:41- Gary describes how banking is the driver of economics, from buying homes, cars, small businesses
5:28- Gary recalls his conversation with Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan on ways to strengthen underserved neighborhoods
6:32- Gary making the ambitious announcement to invest $1 billion in minority owned communities and small businesses
7:28- What traits does Gary want to see in the next mayor of Detroit
8:16- Bob asks Gary how we should navigate the divisiveness in our society?
9:05- Gary turns to kindness; “blessings come from providing kindness to other people.”
10:20- Gary announces a $10 million expansion of the Heart and Home Program
10:41- Gary describes the power of home ownership
11:22- Gary describes the positive conversation he had with a Henry Ford doctor
12:17- Gary balances vacation, time off, and his mission to work and make a difference
13:51- Bob reflects on the time Gary took Detroit business leaders on an immersive Civil Rights tour in the South

What happens when you mix a top-tier surgeon, a NASA innovator, and a Detroit-born tinkerer with big dreams? You get Dr. Scott Dulchavsky - CEO of the Henry Ford Innovation Institute and a true original. From solving the medical challenges astronauts might encounter while in outer space, to building cutting-edge simulation centers right here on Earth, Scott's work is helping to redefine what’s possible in medicine. In this episode of The BOBcast, Bob Riney sits down with the doctor who’s part innovator, part astronaut whisperer, and all Detroit hustle. They talk breakthroughs, big ideas, and why this city keeps producing world-changing talent. Don’t miss this ride! It's Detroit grit meets space-age science - and the future is looking stellar.

:00- Introduction
:43- Bob Riney introduces Dr. Scott Dulchavsky, highlighting his roles as Surgeon in Chief for Henry Ford Health and CEO of the Innovation Institute
1:43- Scott shares his background, mentioning his father's role at General Motors and his own interest in problem-solving from a young age
2:17-Scott describes himself as a "mechanic at large," influenced by his grandfather's tinkering
2:33- Bob Riney notes Scott's diverse interests, including teaching, inventing medical equipment, and working with NASA
2:51- Scott discusses his focus on impact, mentioning the development of a Simulation Center at Henry Ford Health
3:33- He emphasizes the importance of training young people and the logarithmic scale of impact through education
3:54- Bob Riney appreciates how the Simulation Center breaks traditional perceptions of healthcare by integrating high-tech and digital solutions
4:24- Scott highlights the importance of training in difficult conversations, especially in diverse cultural contexts
5:13- Scott recounts his relationship with NASA, starting with a classmate's dream of becoming an astronaut
Scott describes his role in developing medical equipment for space, including a portable ultrasound device.
5:53- Scott shares his experience with NASA's training methods and the importance of scalability in medical innovations
6:32- Scott discusses the impact of these innovations on healthcare on Earth, particularly in remote and underserved areas
8:07- Bob Riney asks Scott about his desire to be an astronaut and his near-miss with the Space Shuttle Columbia
8:21- Scott recounts the tragic events of the Columbia disaster and the impact on his friends at NASA
9:17- Bob Riney asks Scott about his vision for the future of healthcare, particularly in AI, digital solutions, and autonomous transportation
9:45- Scott emphasizes the importance of an open-minded approach to innovation and collaboration with diverse teams
10:48- Scott highlights the role of AI in making healthcare more accessible and efficient, with a focus on patient-centered care
11:44- Bob inquires about Scott's approach to embracing change and providing advice for others who may feel overwhelmed
12:00- Scott stresses the importance of thoughtful and mindful change, especially in high-stakes environments like medicine
13:04- Bob asks Scott about the evolution of surgery and his vision for the next decade
13:12- Scott describes the shift from invasive surgeries to less invasive procedures and the role of new technologies
13:50- Bob Riney shares his experience with legislators and the challenge of communicating the value of research
14:50- Scott discusses the need for effective storytelling to make research relevant to everyday citizens
15:31- Scott highlights the importance of science communication and the role of storytelling in making research accessible
15:53- Bob asks Scott about his experiences teaching the next generation of healthcare professionals
16:07- Scott expresses excitement about the younger generation's immersion in technology and their potential to drive innovation
16:20- Scott emphasizes the importance of diverse careers in healthcare, beyond clinical roles
16:40- Bob thanks Scott for his contributions and reflects on their relationship as colleagues
16:57- Bob reflects on the episode and his gratitude of his collegial relationship with his colleagues, how employees can be entrepreneurs and innovators no matter what their role is, and the importance of self-awareness and effective communication in the scientific community

Communities don’t change by magic — they transform when leaders listen before they act. As President and CEO of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, Nicole Sherard-Freeman knows that true impact doesn’t happen in boardrooms — it happens during real conversations with people, while wearing sweatpants and a baseball cap. In this episode, Bob and Nicole talk about her organization's role in helping donors invest in causes they believe in, from vibrant parks to thriving arts; her mission to strengthen communities and rebuild institutions; and, if medical advancements at Henry Ford Health allow, her plans to stick around until she’s 115.

:00- Introduction
:55- Bob Riney expresses excitement about interviewing Nicole Sherard-Freeman, President and CEO of Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
1:42- Nicole shares her personal connection to Detroit, having grown up in various parts of the city and the suburbs
2:22- Nicole explains the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, which she describes as a funding organization with contributions from thousands of donors
3:29- Nicole provides examples of how small and large donors contribute to various causes, such as scholarships, animal welfare, local parks, and arts
3:59- Bob discusses the importance of community support in health outcomes, mentioning Henry Ford Health's role in providing innovative care
4:41- Nicole highlights the potential for regional partnerships and the importance of collaboration between organizations like Henry Ford and the Community Foundation
5:17- Bob asks Nicole about the Community Foundation's proudest moments, and she cites the role of founding CEO Mariam Noland in the Detroit bankruptcy and the Riverfront project
8:03- Bob shifts the conversation to politics, asking about the attributes needed in the next Detroit mayor
8:36- Nicole emphasizes the importance of leadership skills, understanding large operations, and the ability to run things at scale
9:30- Nicole shares her thoughts on running for mayor and the importance of young leaders stepping forward
10:15- Nicole discusses the Community Foundation's approach to understanding stakeholders and the importance of listening to real stories from the community.
11:51- Bob Riney asks Nicole what advice she would give to her 25-year-old self
12:04- Nicole and she advises traveling more, listening more, and being less critical
12:38- Nicole- “I want to be on the clinical trials so that I end up with the technology upgrades in my body to live till I'm 115”
12:59- Nicole expresses her passion for rebuilding institutions and systems to support communities better
13:44- Bob Riney asks Nicole about navigating the noise and distractions in today's environment
14:15- Nicole shares her approach of listening to the noise and reprocessing it to identify the kernels of truth
16:20- Bob Riney reflects on the conversation, highlighting Nicole's call to get out of one's bubble and listen to diverse perspectives

As president of Michigan State University, Dr. Kevin Guskiewicz is shaping the future of one of the nation's top research institutions - helping students excel, attracting the best talent, and expanding MSU's impact in Detroit. In this episode, Bob Riney and Kevin talk about the transformative 30-year partnership with Henry Ford Health and MSU, highlighted by a brand-new research center that will span nearly 350,000 square feet and feature seven stories of advanced laboratory space. They also explore the important role of free speech on campus, the evolving landscape of diversity, equity & inclusion, and the university's commitment to driving innovation through collaboration. Kevin shares colorful anecdotes about his roots in a town known for Arnold Palmer, Rolling Rock, and Mr. Rogers, topped off with some savvy advice from his daughter.

:15- Bob Riney introduces The BOBcast and welcomes Kevin Guskiewicz, President of Michigan State University.
1:26- Kevin shares his initial impressions of Michigan, the unpredictable Michigan weather, and the partnership with Henry Ford Health and Michigan State University.
2:12- Kevin emphasizes the importance of talent attraction and having a good roadmap for recruitment
2:48- Kevin compares the role of university president to Wayne Gretzky's strategy on the ice, predicting where the puck is going to be.
2:58- Kevin talks about the importance of sports as one of many avenues into the university and the world-class faculty and coaches at Michigan State.
3:50- Kevin mentions the competitive juices between MSU and the University of Michigan and the importance of partnering with other universities in the university research corridor.
5:00- Kevin pitches Michigan State as the pioneer land-grant university, built around agriculture, engineering, and education.
5:22- “We have to become a more contemporary university” ~ Kevin Guskiewicz
5:32- Kevin highlights the university's medical colleges, nursing school, and supply chain management program.
6:05- Kevin mentions the largest incoming class in the university’s history and the high percentage of Michigan students and graduates staying in the state.
6:33- Bob leads the discussion of the importance of maintaining safety on campus while allowing free speech.
7:10- Kevin Guskiewicz talks about the need to engage with students and faculty on issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and mentions the review of policies to ensure clarity and communication of expectations.
7:52- Kevin emphasizes the importance of modeling and promoting free speech through programming on public discourse.
8:02- Bob talks of Henry Ford Health and MSU being purposeful with diversity, equity, and inclusion.
8:27- Kevin defines diversity as a fact, equity as an aspiration, and inclusion as a non-negotiable choice.
9:00- Kevin mentions the joint research enterprise with Henry Ford Health to address health disparities.
9:14- Bob and Kevin discuss the early stages of the 30-year partnership between Henry Ford Health and Michigan State University.
9:32- Kevin expresses excitement about the partnership elevating both institutions.
9:45- Kevin highlights the research center in Detroit as a game-changer for research in key areas like cancer and neuroscience.
10:32- Kevin mentions the Nick Gilbert Neurofibromatosis Research Institute and the advanced technology to recruit top researchers.
11:08- Bob asks Kevin about his vision for Michigan State University in five years.
11:33- Kevin Guskiewicz envisions an MSU- Henry Ford Health campus
11:55- Kevin talks about developing the Fisher Building with retail, restaurants, and other amenities, the potential for a high-end grocery store and a boutique hotel to benefit patients and the research community.
13:09- Bob asks Kevin about his personal interests and hobbies.
13:25- Kevin shares his hometown upbringing, love for golf, being a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan, and his appreciation for James Taylor and Chris Stapleton.
14:49- Kevin jokes about his daughter's request to avoid being recorded while dancing.
15:17- Bob asks what Kevin’s dream headline would be in five years.
16:36- Bob talks about being surprised by Kevin’s confidence as campuses being an epicenter of free speech in a way we’re securing the physical and mental safety of all
17:15- Bob thanks listeners and hopes they’re being motivated by guests on The BOBcast
18:13- Bob appreciates how MSU has a “secret sauce” of agriculture that could move us to food being our source of wellness

Born in the heart of Detroit, Motown transformed a modest house on West Grand Boulevard into a global hit factory, launching icons like Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye. Now, the Motown Museum is expanding, keeping the beat alive for future generations to feel the rhythm that changed the world. In this episode, Bob Riney welcomes Motown Museum CEO Robin Terry to celebrate the powerful legacy of Motown—where music, culture, and community unite. Together, they explore how this legendary sound continues to inspire and how the future museum will provide space to showcase more of Motown's history.

:00- Robin Terry talks about what happens when you put young, talented people in a room together

1:15- Bob Riney shares his personal take on Motown

2:21- Robin shares her enthusiasm for giving tours and meeting people from around the world who visit Hitsville USA

2:53- The global impact of The Motown Museum and its diverse visitors 

4:18- Motown music is described as a reflection of societal changes and political advocacy in the 1960s 

4:48- Motown transitions to protest music in the 1970s 

5:44- Bob puts Robin on the spot to name Motown’s most famous anthem

6:24- The conversation shifts to the therapeutic benefits of music, with Bob mentioning Henry Ford Health's integration of music and art in their new hospital tower

7:07- Robin shares anecdotes about the emotional reactions of visitors to Hitsville USA, including moments of silence and tears

8:58- The discussion includes the spiritual experiences of artists like Winona Judd and Demi Lovato when they visited the museum

10:11- Bob and Robin address the challenge of showcasing only a small fraction of the Motown memorabilia due to the limited space at Hitsville

11:10- Plans for a full campus to celebrate the Motown legacy and tell the stories of the many unsung heroes

12:12- The conversation highlights the young age of the Motown employees and the innovative environment that fostered the Motown sound

12:56- Bob humorously suggests that Henry Ford Health should take credit for the musical talent born at their hospital, which contributed to the Motown sound

13:09- Bob and Robin discuss the philanthropic support and community involvement in the museum’s expansion project, which has raised over $71 million

14:50- Bob and Robin gush over the genius of Gladys Knight

16:05- Robin talks about the coaching and training that developed the iconic stars of Motown

16:44- Bob praises Robin's leadership and passion for preserving Motown history

16:57-Bob encourages listeners to visit Hitsville USA and experience the feel-good atmosphere of the museum

17:28- Bob reflects on his conversation with Robin, praising her leadership and passion

Unconventional is one way to describe Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. Even before his surprise announcement that he’s running for governor as an independent, Duggan helped lead with vision and a relentless determination. From vibrant parks and commercial growth to major healthcare expansion and job creation, the city is rising. In this episode, you’ll learn how Duggan balanced business growth with neighborhood renewal, ensuring Detroiters benefit first.

1:58- Mayor Mike Duggan reflects on the professionalism of city council meetings compared to his past experiences.

2:55- Duggan talks about revitalizing the city parks

4:09- Duggan discusses the balance between business needs and neighborhood development, using the Stellantis auto plant as an example.

5:55- How the city prioritized investing in healthcare

8:13- The power of partnerships in reshaping Detroit

9:26- Duggan talks about the city's efforts to address homelessness, including building affordable housing and providing shelter beds.

10:59- Duggan shares a story about James White's business plan for a real-time crime center, emphasizing the need for metrics in crime reduction.

12:37- Duggan highlights his partnership with Detroit City Council and the shift from blaming others to constructive problem-solving.

14:39- Duggan shares a personal anecdote about waiting at a Detroit restaurant, highlighting the city's popularity.

15:24- Bob and the Mayor discuss the challenges and opportunities of running for governor as an independent.

18:15- Duggan shares his positive experiences at airports, where people from across the state have shown support for his independent candidacy.

20:17- Bob reflects on the conversation with Mayor Duggan, and on the importance of taking a long-term view and seizing opportunities for positive change.

Arn Tellem’s bold voice didn’t miraculously appear overnight. It took a path all his own, from aspiring sports announcer to a successful sports agent, Tellem took his big ideas to the Detroit Pistons where he is the team’s Vice Chair and a key player in shaping Detroit’s future. In this episode, you’ll learn why Tellem shows his emotions, the depth of his commitment to community service in building a better Detroit, and how three key partnerships are shaping his world: on the court, in the community, and in his own home.

1:34 - Arn talks about how he initially thought he could have a career as a sports announcer.

2:03 - An article by Jerry Kapstein first inspires Arn to think about a potential career in sports management.

2:55 - Arn discusses the impact of the movie Jerry McGuire, which was inspired by his success story as a sports agent.

5:19 - At the end of 1988, Arn decides to leave the law firm he's been with for nine years to set up a sports management firm.

7:27 - Arn talks about being inspired by the Pistons commitment to the revitalization of Detroit, and how that factored into his decision to relocate, despite having no historical connections to the city.

8:08 - Arn expresses his admiration for Detroit's sense of community: how people of different backgrounds and beliefs share a desire to make the city a better place.

9:07 - Bob Riney points out the two characteristics of Arn's he most admires: Arn’s willingness to show his emotions, and his confidence in letting people know where he stands politically.

10:32 - Arn tells Bob how he looks out for his clients’ interests 24/7, a principle that he believes has led to his success as an agent.

12:31 - Bob and Arn talk about their marriages to strong, independent women, and how those partnerships have helped both their careers.

14:22 - Arn outlines the Pistons partnership with Henry Ford Health, and how both organizations share a commitment to Detroit's continued revitalization.

18:16 - Arn talks about some of the up-and-coming star athletes in the Pistons’ lineup, and his optimism about the team's future success.