Total Michigan

Who doesn't love chocolate? Patti Christopher, the owner of Patricia's Chocolates in Grand Haven, Michigan. Patti shares her journey from being a school psychologist to becoming a renowned chocolatier. She discusses how she started her business, the importance of using locally sourced ingredients, and the unique characteristics of her artisan European chocolates.

Patti also delves into the educational aspect of her work, training other chefs, and the process of establishing her chocolate shop. Listeners will learn about Patty's passion for pastries, her transition into chocolate making, and the delightful experience awaiting them at Patricia's Chocolates.

Links:

https://patriciaschocolate.com/

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Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction: A Sweet Retirement Plan

00:30 Meet the Chocolatier: Patty Christopher

01:13 The Birth of Patricia's Chocolates

02:06 From Education to Chocolate: Patty's Journey

03:07 Learning the Craft: Culinary Schools and Classes

05:39 Turning Passion into Business

08:00 Building a Chocolate Empire

19:05 Community Connections and Local Ingredients

25:27 The Chocolate Shop Experience

28:23 Conclusion: Visit Patricia's Chocolates

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How do you go from Law to Lager? Michael Brower, co-founder and Chief Brand Officer of Pigeon Hill Brewing Company, shares his journey from law school to opening a successful brewery in Muskegon, Michigan. Michael shares the challenges and triumphs of starting with a small taproom, the rapid growth that led to multiple expansions, and the importance of local pride and community in their business model.

Michael shares how the brewery’s began, the significance of the name 'Pigeon Hill,' and what visitors can expect when they visit the brewery.

Links:

Pigeon Hill Brewery: https://pigeonhillbrew.com/

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Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@totalmichigan

Show Notes:

00:00 The Unexpected Success of Pigeon Hill Brewing Company

02:39 Michael Brower's Journey Back to Muskegon

07:37 The Evolution of Pigeon Hill: From Idea to Expansion

15:32 Navigating Growth and Embracing Local Identity

23:42 A Deep Dive into Pigeon Hill's Offerings and Community Impact

28:05 Connecting with Pigeon Hill Brewing Company Online

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What is the cutest place to stay in Muskegon? Tiny Digs Lakeshore! Tiny Digs is a collection of Tiny Homes you can rent to enjoy your stay in Muskegon and West Michigan!

Owner Pam Westra discusses her mission to bring the tiny house movement to the Midwest, specifically to Muskegon, Michigan, through the establishment of Tiny Digs Lakeshore. Pam shares the origins of her venture, which began with the Tiny Digs Hotel in Portland, Oregon, and details her family's deep involvement in building and designing these unique and themed tiny houses. The discussion includes experiences Muskegon offers.

Links:

Tiny Digs Lakeshore (Michigan): http://tinydigslakeshore.com/

Tiny Digs Hotel (Portland, Oregon): https://www.tinydigshotel.com/

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Show Notes:

00:00 Bringing the Tiny House Movement to the Midwest

03:30 Pam's Journey: From Detroit to Tiny House Innovator

04:29 The Evolution of Tiny Digs: From Idea to Reality

06:56 Navigating Challenges and Embracing Tiny House Living

13:08 Tiny Digs Lakeshore: Bringing Tiny Homes to Michigan

21:10 Designing Tiny Homes with Heart and Creativity

25:31 What to Expect at Tiny Digs Lakeshore

28:04 Tiny Digs' Recognition and How to Book Your Stay

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How is Saginaw benefiting from the Memorial Cup? Jimmy Greene, the Sales Director of the Saginaw Spirit, shares his journey from growing up in Flint, Michigan, to becoming a key figure in bringing the prestigious Memorial Cup to Saginaw, aiming to make it the grandest edition ever held in the United States.

The discussion covers Jimmy's career transitions from childcare development, banking, information technology, to his significant role in politics, policy, and eventually the Memorial Cup. Highlighting the importance of community investment and the socio-economic benefits of hosting such an event, Greene talks about the efforts to include the entire community, regardless of socio-economic status, through various legacy and outreach projects.

The episode delves into how the event is set to transform Saginaw and surrounding counties by promoting inclusivity, enhancing urban development, and boosting local businesses. Jimmy's personal commitment to ensuring the event's success and inclusivity, despite his battle with prostate cancer, underscores the episode's theme of resilience and community betterment through sports.

Links:

Saginaw Spirit Website: https://saginawspirit.com

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Show Notes:

00:00 Opening Reflections: The Power of Community Events

01:20 Jimmy Greene's Journey: From Flint to the Forefront of the Memorial Cup

01:39 The Vision Behind the Memorial Cup: Elevating Saginaw's Spirit

12:18 A Personal Story of Resilience: Battling Cancer While Building a Legacy

14:50 Expanding the Memorial Cup's Reach and Impact

18:42 Transforming Saginaw Through the Memorial Cup

19:56 Community Engagement and Inclusivity Initiatives

20:48 Creating Opportunities for Socioeconomic Inclusion

21:27 Enhancing Local Infrastructure and Entertainment

26:49 The Memorial Cup Experience: Events and Accessibility

30:00 Promoting Community Involvement and Support

31:34 A Personal Reflection on Community Impact

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How did Saginaw win the prestigious Memorial Cup?

Craig Goslin, President and Managing Partner of the Saginaw Spirit, discusses how Saginaw, Michigan won the bid to host the prestigious Memorial Cup, one of Canada's top hockey events.

Craig highlights the exhaustive bidding process, the community's support, and the economic and cultural impact of hosting such an event. With a focus on community involvement and regional cooperation, the discussion reveals how Saginaw and the Great Lakes Bay Region came together to showcase their capabilities on an international stage, supported by significant investments in legacy projects and infrastructure improvements to ensure the event's success and long-lasting benefits for the area.

Links:

Saginaw Spirit Website: https://saginawspirit.com

Spirit Rising YouTube Series: Click here.

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Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/totalmichigan

Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@totalmichigan

Show Notes:

00:00 Kicking Off with Saginaw's International Spotlight

01:46 The Journey to Winning the Memorial Cup Bid

03:56 Exploring the Bid Components and Community Effort

11:26 The Power of Community and Regional Support

13:05 Reflecting on Saginaw's Hockey History and Community Impact

16:00 Economic Impact and Legacy Projects of the Memorial Cup

16:56 Food Truck Alley and Transportation Improvements

18:28 Community Projects and Hoyt Park Revitalization

20:04 The Power of Faith and Community in Achieving Success

23:47 Fan Festivities and Family Activities

25:19 National and International Exposure for Saginaw

27:31 The Joy of Hosting and Future Community Investments

28:43 How to Experience the Memorial Cup and Saginaw Spirit

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Denise Illich is a prominent figure in Detroit's business and philanthropic community for over 40 years. Sponsored by the Stevens Center for Family Business, the show delves into Denise's transition from aspiring to pave her own path in the legal field to taking up significant roles in her family's enterprises, including Illich Holdings - the parent company of Little Caesars Enterprise, the Detroit Redwings, and the Detroit Tigers, among others.

The discussion highlights the Illich family's dedication to Detroit's revitalization, their ventures into sports team ownership, and the development of landmark projects like the Comerica Park and Ford Field.

Denise reflects on her father’s influence, his questions that shaped her worldview, and the innovative marketing strategies that propelled Little Caesars into a global brand. The conversation also touches on her commitment to education and philanthropy, encapsulating a journey from modest beginnings to leading an expansive business empire while staying devoted to community upliftment.

Links:

Stevens Center for Family Business: http://svsu.edu/scfb

The Denise Ilitch Show: https://deniseilitchshow.libsyn.com/

Denise's Show on Apple: Click here.

Denise's Show on Spotify: Click here

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Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/totalmichigan

Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@totalmichigan

Show Notes:

00:00 Welcome to Total Michigan: Celebrating Family Business and Philanthropy

00:34 Introducing Denise Illich: A Legacy of Business and Giving Back

02:32 From Immigrant Roots to Pizza Empire: The Illich Family Story

09:59 Denise's Personal Journey: Education, Law, and Returning to the Family Business

11:48 The Evolution of Little Caesars: Franchising and National Expansion

12:47 Denise's Unexpected Path into Marketing and Its Impact

15:12 The Ilitch Family's Empire: From Pizza to Detroit's Revival

17:25 Investing in Detroit: The Story Behind the Fox Theater and Sports Teams

20:24 Building a Legacy: The Detroit Red Wings and Tigers

24:27 Expanding the Empire: Comerica Park and Ford Field

26:23 Leadership Transition and Continuing the Legacy

27:44 Giving Back: Education and Community Engagement

29:11 Denise's Favorite Detroit Moment

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Ready for some great Mexican cuisine? Mari Sierra, the third-generation owner of Navarro's, shares the story of this family-owned Mexican takeout restaurant in Muskegon Heights.

Starting in the 1970s as a grocery store by Mari's grandparents, who were immigrants with a passion for community and culture, Navarro's has evolved into a local culinary landmark. Mari shares the heartwarming story of her family's journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs, including her own transition from corporate America back to her roots after her mother's passing due to leukemia.

With a focus on community, legacy, and authentic Mexicana cuisine, Mari discusses the importance of collaboration over competition in Muskegon's vibrant food scene, efforts to support Latino empowerment, and Navarro's commitment to traditional and innovative dishes alike. This episode is a celebration of family, determination, cultural heritage, and the power of community support in keeping local businesses thriving.

Links:

Navarro's Website: https://www.navarrosonline.com/

Navarro's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/navarrosmuskegon/

Subscribe to our Email Newsletter: https://totalmichigan.com/join/

Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/totalmichigan

Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@totalmichigan

Show Notes:

00:00 A Family Legacy and the Decision to Continue

00:32 Welcome to Total Michigan: Discovering Hidden Gems

01:24 The Heart of Navarro's: A Family-Owned Gem

04:26 The Navarro Legacy: From Migrant Roots to Community Pillars

07:07 Mari's Journey: From Corporate America to Family Business

19:13 Embracing Tradition and Innovation in the Kitchen

23:47 What to Expect at Navarro's: A First-Time Visitor's Guide

25:08 Connecting with Navarro's: Find Us Online

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Ready to make your own customized wine? Brett Scharnhorst, owner of Vinomondo, a unique winery in Port Huron, Michigan, talks about their unique 'do it yourself' winemaking experience.

Brett shares his journey from working in IT to becoming a winery owner and describes Vinomondo's distinct approach to wine, which allows customers to participate in the winemaking process, from selection to bottling.

The winery provides an extensive range of wine options, sourcing materials globally to cater to all tastes, and emphasizes a no-added-sulfites policy for a better wine experience. Brett also explains the personal history behind his shift to winemaking, reflecting on concerns about his future in IT and a serendipitous opportunity to take over Vinomondo with his wife, Jackie.

The interview touches on the importance of enjoying quality wine, the versatility and fun of the bottling experience at Vinomondo, and how custom wine batches and labels can make meaningful gifts or event features. Brett's story highlights a profound career shift driven by passion, a love for wine, and a desire to offer a unique, interactive wine experience.

Links:

Vinomondo Website: https://vinomondowinery.com/

Vinomondo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100031140955789

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Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/totalmichigan

Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@totalmichigan

Show Notes:

00:00 The Unlikely Journey from IT to Winemaking

03:51 Brett's Personal Journey and Transition into Winemaking

07:11 Exploring the World of Wine: A Personal Transformation

10:27 Vinomondo's Approach to Wine: Breaking the Rules for Better Taste

16:42 The Vinomondo Experience: From First Visit to Bottling Your Own Wine

23:30 The Social Aspect of Wine Bottling at Vinomondo

25:06 How to Experience Vinomondo for Yourself

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Sadaat Hossain, owner of the Raven Cafe in Port Huron shares the cafe's evolution under two different visions: one focused on creating a unique establishment and the other on operational excellence. Saadat shares his journey from a sound engineer to a restaurateur, culminating in his acquisition and management of the Raven Cafe, known for its espresso and spirit bar, eclectic live music, and Edgar Allan Poe-inspired ambiance.

The episode explores the cafe's impact on the local music and arts scene, its inclusive community role, and Saadat's deep connection to Port Huron. It highlights the challenges and surprises of running such a distinctive local business, underlining the importance of community and personal passion in entrepreneurial success.

Links:

https://ravencafeph.com/

Connect with Total Michigan:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/totalmichigan

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/totalmichigan

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@totalmichigan

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction to the Love-Hate Relationship with the Industry

00:15 Welcome to Total Michigan: Exploring the Raven Cafe

00:47 The Tale of Two Owners: Vision and Execution at the Raven Cafe

01:26 Meet Sadaat Hossain: From Sound Engineering to Cafe Ownership

04:09 The Transformation of the Raven Cafe: A Renovation Story

14:34 The Raven Cafe's Unique Offerings and Community Impact

15:35 Sadaat's Journey: From Music to Managing the Raven Cafe

23:26 The Raven Cafe's Signature Events and How to Connect

25:33 Conclusion and How to Find the Raven Cafe

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What is Yoga? What are the health benefits? Emilee Hartwig, the owner of Happy Dog Yoga Studios. Emilee shares her unexpected journey from aspiring yoga teacher to yoga studio owner, including how she stumbled upon yoga as a new mother seeking physical and mental wellness.

Emilee outlines the evolution of Happy Dog Yoga Studios from its inception in Port Huron in 2015, and its expansion to St. Clair, offering a range of services including yoga classes, Reiki, and massage.

The interview delves into the challenges and surprises of running a yoga business, the importance of modifying yoga poses for each individual, and the fundamental role of intentional breathing in yoga practice. Emilee's story illustrates a personal and professional transformation, underscored by a commitment to bringing yoga's physical and mental benefits to the community.

Show Notes

00:00 The Unexpected Journey to Yoga Studio Ownership

01:20 Discovering Happy Dog Yoga Studios: A Journey of Growth

04:39 Finding Solace and Strength in Yoga

07:13 The Path to Becoming a Yoga Instructor

12:32 Embracing the Challenges and Surprises of Studio Ownership

16:50 The Transformative Power of Yoga: Beyond the Physical

19:59 Breathing: The Essence of Yoga and Self-Care

25:11 How to Connect with Happy Dog Yoga Studios

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