The first time that Lillian Werbin and I were supposed to get together to record this chat was the week that her mother died. Naturally, we postponed and I waited a few weeks to reach back out again. By the time we were able to reconnect I found her trying to keep Pepper the puppy entertained on a warm Summer day in Michigan. 

During our chat, Lily fights with her home internet connection, strolls the lovely grounds at the Woldumar Nature Center and even has to track down a poop bag for Pepper’s business. All the while, Lillian maintains a wonderful disposition filled with humor, thoughtfulness and charm. Although she is just 32 years old, Lillian Werbin is an old soul, and a wise one as well.

Despite the effort to keep up with Pepper and to outrun spotty cell coverage, this conversation is a window into one incredibly special family and the gift they have given to our part of the world in the form of Elderly Instruments. 

Elderly is a world renowned institution that has been selling the finest fretted instruments for 50 years. The store is a playground for musicians and gawkers alike, and it is a hub for the Lansing creative scene, and beyond. To only call it special would be to undervalue it. It is a sacred space.

Lily gives us the deep dive into her adoption, her amazing parents and their lives, and her own story of growing up in a family with a unique legacy. She is a brilliant and engaging woman, and her love for her community, and her extended Elderly family are always at the forefront of everything she seems to be working on. 

Lansing is lucky to have Elderly Instruments, the Werbin family, and Lillian specifically at the heart of our community. Here is a deeper look at my friend Lily, her life, and her family’s amazing legacy. 

Enjoy. 

Cheers,

Matty C

Matty C Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/Matt-Carlson-34738

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