Total Michigan

SSG Travis Mills had a bad day at the office.  His world was turned upside down, literally, when an IED made him a quadruple amputee.  But it would take a lot more than an IED to break this man’s spirit.  His personality, his story is larger than any of us could have imagined.  He wants you to know that no matter what happens in life, you can overcome it.   Three Key Takeaways:

2. Having a great sense of humor helps people to handle situations better.
3. 
   
5. Always look for the next adventure.
6. 
   
8. Never give up.  

  Key Moments:   [13:28] Travis Mills: Going Public with His Story   [16:56] Travis Mills: Becoming a National Figure   [28:21] Travis Mills: Who Inspires Him   [36:42] Travis Mills: The Next Great Adventure

Dave Lorenz and his staff at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation put together the success "Pure Michigan" campaign. Hear his amazing story and the idea behind "Pure Michigan".

Key Points:

[06:25] When others see something in you and guide you along your path

[18:30] Where did the idea of "Pure Michigan" come from?

[23:49] Biggest Challenge to Overcome

[28:00] A Personal Story of Someone Positively Impacted by the "Pure Michigan" campaign

Sarah Kile is the Director of Michigan 211; a non-profit service that helps connect people in need with various services through Michigan. 211 services 23 counties and over 1 million people. She talks to us today about leadership through service.

First responders are equipped to handle almost any situation. Now they can handle one more. Carter Kits are designed to help First Responders build rapport with people with Autism Spectral Order and Special Needs. Here's the amazing story behind this creation and the first responders who use them.

It's time for bubbly! Mike Laing from Mawby Sparkling Wines hangs out with us today to talk about his passion for wine, with and without bubbles, and offers us some advice on getting started.  He also talks about what it is like to start your own vineyard.

[16:57] Naming Convention for Bubbly

[18:39] Advice on Getting into Wine

[24:10] Founding Big Little Wines

[31:42] Mentors in Wine

Melissa Hager from the Comedy Series shares with us her crazy and hilarious journey to bring comedy to Michigan. Her bright, courageous attitude not only serves her well on stage but also helps her confront life's challenges. A sure-fire episode you won't want to miss!

[13:21] Transitioning into a Comedian

[17:46] Launching the Comedy Series

[25:27] Dealing with Real Life Hecklers

[31:18] Ladies of Comedy Podcast

[41:34] Helping Non-Profits with Laughs

Adele Martin, the Superintendent of the Frankenmuth School District, shares with us her amazing story and invaluable advice on helping set our kids up for success.

[6:16] Thoughts on Women Superintendents

[12:08] Community Impact on Schools

[13:49] Preparing Students for Next Decade

[18:03] Philosophy on Learning From Failure

[20:34] Advice for Parents on Helping Kids Learn

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In this heartfelt episode of Total Michigan, we had the honor of sitting down with the legendary Dorothy Zehnder, the matriarch of Frankenmuth’s Bavarian Inn. For over 70 years, Dorothy dedicated her life to building one of Michigan’s most beloved family businesses. From the struggles of purchasing the Fischer Hotel in 1950 to the bold decision to embrace a Bavarian theme, Dorothy shared the incredible journey behind her family’s lasting legacy.

With moving stories of risk, resilience, and an unwavering love for cooking, Dorothy reflected on what kept her going, even well past retirement age. This episode captures the heart and soul of a woman whose passion touched millions of visitors over the decades.

💙 In Memory of Dorothy Zehnder (1921-2023): Dorothy’s impact on Frankenmuth and Michigan’s culinary scene is immeasurable. Her dedication, warmth, and love for her community will never be forgotten. This conversation is a tribute to her incredible life and legacy.

Episode Highlights:

🔹 The Fischer Hotel Purchase (1950) – How a snowstorm led to an unexpected opportunity.

🔹 Surviving Hard Times – The financial struggles of the mid-1950s and how Dorothy and her husband risked everything.

🔹 The Bavarian Transformation – The unexpected role of a German architect in shaping the future of the Bavarian Inn.

🔹 The Secret to a Lasting Legacy – How the Zehnder family turned their business into a Michigan empire.

🔹 Dorothy’s Passion for Cooking – Her early influences, love for food, and why she chose the back of the house over the front.

🔹 Entrepreneurial Spirit – Why Dorothy’s husband Tiny was called “Mr. Frankenmuth” and his role in shaping the town.

🔹 Emotional Reflection – A deeply personal moment as Dorothy shared the impact of her mother’s legacy on her own journey.

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Join Abby Engel from Pet Angel Adoption as she talks about the origins of Pet Angel Adoption and gives great advice on caring for your cute kitties. In this episode, she covers:

• How to care for a rescue animal
• How to entertain your cat for hours
• How to tell if your cat needs a trip to the Vet

Show Notes:

[16:57] How to Care for a Rescue Cat

[22:27] Quick Way to Entertain Your Cat

[26:43] How to Tell if Your Cat is Sick

Sponsorship:

Pet Angel Adoption

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Why should you listen? Great question! I talk about the origins of this podcast and what leadership means to me and to us all.