Shows
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Kelsey Snyder - LEADSend a textIn this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Kelsey Snyder, Executive Director of Lead, to talk about leadership, technology, and building systems that create real community impact.After 12 years leading global operations teams in the tech industry, Kelsey felt called to work that made a direct difference in her own community. That calling led her to Lead, where she helped launch the Lead Within online platform and build the infrastructure that now supports youth and families across Michigan.If you care about community...
2026-02-1941 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Angie Evans - Black Diamond BroadcastingSend us a textIn this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Angie Evans, a familiar voice on 95.3 CFX and a true connector in the Mount Pleasant community.Angie shares her journey from Detroit radio to building a life and platform rooted in local impact. From broadcasting and integrated marketing to deep nonprofit involvement, this conversation explores how using your voice with intention can uplift businesses, strengthen communities, and create meaningful change.We talk about:The evolution from being “on the mic” to being a comm...
2026-02-0545 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/Eugene Seals Jr. - Saginaw County Chamber of CommerceSend us a textSeason 3 Premiere: Eugene Seals Jr. – Leadership, Partnership & The Power of the ChamberSeason 3 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast kicks off with a heavy hitter. Courtney sits down with Eugene Seals Jr., President & CEO of the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce, for a powerful conversation about leadership, connection, and community impact.In this episode, Eugene shares his vision and strategic plan for the Chamber, why networking and partnerships are essential to a thriving business ecosystem, and how the Chamber is redefining what it means to show up for businesses ac...
2026-01-2134 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Michael Wooley - Varnum LLPSend us a textSeason 2, Episode 13: Michael Wooley – Building Bridges Through Immigration LawIn this episode of Entrepreneur Like Me, Courtney talks with Michael Wooley, Immigration Attorney at Varnum LLP, about how immigration law connects global talent, business growth, and community.With over 30 years of experience, Michael helps companies across healthcare, education, and manufacturing navigate visa sponsorship and workforce challenges. He also shares how his Peace Corps service in Ecuador shaped his perspective and commitment to bridging opportunity through law.Tune in for practical insights on hiring gl...
2025-11-2133 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Kristen Pursley - Dobrusin LawSend us a textSeason 2, Episode 12: Protecting Your Ideas with Kristen Pursley, President of Dobrusin LawIn this episode, we sit down with Kristen Pursley, President of Dobrusin IP Law, a women-owned intellectual property boutique firm based in Pontiac, Michigan. Kristen specializes in helping innovators, founders, and growing companies protect what they create — from patents and trademarks to copyright strategy and tech transfer guidance.We talk about:Why every business — no matter the size — should think about intellectual property earlyThe key differences between patents, trademarks, and copyri...
2025-11-0753 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/Jacqueline Taylor - Little Dreamers Early Learning CenterSend us a text Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders. Connect with us: Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp Visit our...
2025-10-2446 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Marcus Martin - Lake Trust Credit UnionSend us a textMarcus Martin – Building Communities Through Access to CapitalIn this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Marcus Martin, Community Development Manager at Lake Trust Credit Union, to talk about how financial institutions can do more than just provide banking—they can transform lives and fuel entrepreneurship.Marcus shares insights on:The importance of financial inclusion for small business ownersPrograms and lending resources Lake Trust offers entrepreneursCommon barriers to accessing capital—and how to overcome themWhy building trust and relationships matter...
2025-10-0235 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Andrew Lay - HierographxSend us a textSeason 2, Episode 9: Andrew Lay – Outsmarting Google & Elevating Your MarketingIn this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, we sit down with Andrew Lay, Founder & Owner of Hierographx—a full-service digital agency driven by innovation and problem solving. With over 25 years in digital marketing and more than a decade as a local business owner, Andrew brings proven strategies to help entrepreneurs show up, get found, and grow.We talk practical tips for entrepreneurs just getting started, easy ways to elevate your marketing, and how to finally understand what...
2025-09-2653 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Kisha Smith - Saginaw Economic Development Corporation (SEDC)Send us a textSeason 2, Episode 8: Kisha Smith – Fueling Small Business in SaginawIn this episode of The Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, we’re highlighting the local support systems powering entrepreneurship in Saginaw, Michigan.Courtney sits down with Kisha Smith, Coordinator at the Saginaw Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), to talk about how SEDC is helping small businesses thrive through accessible micro and macro lending programs.Kisha breaks down what it takes to apply, why a business plan and financial statements are key, and how SEDC is showing up for entr...
2025-08-0431 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/Christiana Malacara - Third Eye Marketing & That's What She Said Radio ShowSend us a textSeason 2, Episode 7: Christiana Malacara – Purpose, Power & PlatformWe’re back and better than ever with an inspiring episode featuring Christiana Malacara, founder of That’s What She Said Radio Show and 3rd Eye Marketing.Christiana is a powerful voice in the Great Lakes Bay Region—connecting communities, empowering women, and elevating the Latino voice through media, networking, and bold authenticity.In this episode, she shares how discipline today creates freedom tomorrow, and why showing up, even when it’s hard, matters most. Christiana breaks down what it me...
2025-07-1845 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Shane Emmons - Swept.AISend us a textWhat happens when a tech entrepreneur brings Silicon Valley vision back to his hometown?In Episode 6 of Entrepreneur Like Me, we sit down with Shane Emmons, Founder and CEO of Swept.AI, a rising AI company that recently secured a pre-seed investment led by Chicago-based VC firm M25.But for Shane, the mission is deeper than tech—it's about investing in people, potential, and place. As a Saginaw native, Shane is determined to prove that innovation can start anywhere—and thrive in unexpected places.In this episode, we t...
2025-05-1633 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Tracey Floyd - Core Elevation Solutions & Encore 360Send us a textWe’re celebrating 1 YEAR of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast! And for this milestone episode, I’m joined by someone very special—my mother, Tracey Floyd.Tracey is the founder of Core Elevations Solutions, providing expert HR consulting services to help small businesses stay compliant and grow. She’s also the owner of Encore 360, an event business offering 360 photo booth experiences, stand-alone selfie booths, and audio guestbooks for unforgettable events.In this episode, we talk about: 💼 Building businesses that serve the communit...
2025-05-0224 min
Hey, Great Lakes Bay!Episode 11 - Central Michigan University Research CorporationMatt talks with Erin Strang, President and CEO of Central Michigan University Research Corporation, along with Director of Diversity & Business Development Courtney Garrett about CMURC's work. He's also joined by their Entrepreneur of the Year Tish Randle to hear about her journey. Tune in!
2025-04-2144 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Gina Anayana - United We GoSend us a textSeason 2, Episode 4: Gina Anayana – United We Go In this heartfelt and powerful episode, we sit down with Gina Anayana, founder of United We Go—a nonprofit rooted in collaboration, diversity, and creative expression.Launched in 2023 and based in Bay City, Michigan, United We Go is transforming communities through programs like the City of Mural Festival, I AM Youth Empowerment, the Voice of Youth Podcast, and the Birthday Fund Program.From amplifying youth voices to creating space for public art and cultural storytelling, Gina’s work is all about celebr...
2025-04-1144 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Letisha Randle - PRH GroupSend us a textSeason 2, Episode 3: Letisha Randle – Entrepreneur of the Year In this inspiring episode, we’re celebrating CMURC’s 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year—Letisha Randle. As the Co-Founder and CEO of PRH Group, Letisha is transforming the electrical construction industry, advancing diversity, and building lasting impact throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region.From scaling PRH to over 65 employees to securing five major utility contracts in 2024, Letisha’s entrepreneurial journey is one of vision, resilience, and intentional leadership. And with ventures like L&V Properties, I Heart Mac & Cheese, Bloom & Blaze, and HR Properties...
2025-03-2826 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Donald Bivens - Beauty In MeSend us a textSeason 2, Episode 2: Beauty In Me with Donald BivensThis episode shines a spotlight on Beauty In Me, a local modeling agency founded by entrepreneurs Donald and Brittany Bivens. We dive into their mission of empowering emerging models in the Great Lakes Bay Region through their signature four-step program focused on self-love, confidence, and resilience. From taking 30 models to New York Fashion Week to launching their second season of an inspiring video series, Donald and Brittany are proving that national success starts right here at home. Tune in for a conversation about...
2025-03-1422 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Phil Eich - StoryvilleSend us a text🎉 Season 2 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast is here! 🎉 And to kick things off, I’m sitting down with Phil Eich of Storyville, the storyteller behind Riverfront Saginaw and the voice behind so many of our community’s most powerful stories.But this time, Phil is sharing his own story—one that many entrepreneurs can relate to. We talk about:🔥 The reality of burnout and how to move through it🔥 How to stay the course when things get ov...
2025-02-281h 03
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Latrice Goodwine - Girl! What's In Your P.U.R.S.E? & Allstate Insurance AgencySend us a textWe’re wrapping up Season 1 of Entrepreneur Like Me with a powerhouse guest—my sister, my friend, and an absolute force, Latrice Goodwine! Owner of Allstate Insurance Company, the Goodwine Agency, and author of Girl, What’s in Your Purse?, Latrice has been a trailblazer in women’s finance, small business growth, and insurance.From financial advisor to coach, she’s made it her mission to help women understand what it means to have the right tools—and layers—in their "purse." Latrice makes finance fun, relatable, and empowering for everyone she meets....
2024-12-3148 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Keta Leatherwood - Hair Drip WearSend us a textIn Episode 17 of Entrepreneur Like Me, we sit down with the incredible Keta Leatherwood, founder and owner of Hair Drip Wear—a luxury beauty garment that will become your best friend during any hair prepping routine. Hair Drip Wear is a one-of-a-kind product designed to elevate your daily lifestyle, and its journey from a simple sketch on a legal pad to a celebrity favorite is nothing short of inspiring.Keta shares how she overcame challenges with a manufacturer, leveraged her connections at CMURC, and turned he...
2024-12-1337 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM Holiday Edition with Latrice Goodwine - Girl! What's In Your P.U.R.S.E & Allstate Insurance Company -The Latrice Goodwine AgencySend us a text🎄 Episode 16: Protecting What Matters This Holiday SeasonIn this special holiday edition of the Entrepreneur Like Me podcast, host Courtney sits down with Latrice Goodwine, owner of the Latrice Goodwine Allstate Agency and founder of Girl, What’s in Your Purse?.Latrice shares essential holiday insurance tips, highlighting the importance of homeowner and auto coverage during the festive season. She also dives into strategies for safeguarding your finances, avoiding scams, and budgeting effectively to keep your holidays stress-free.Whe...
2024-11-2733 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM Holiday Edition w/ Rachel Caudy - SVRC MarketplaceSend us a textEpisode 15 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast continues our Holiday Series with a focus on shopping small and local this holiday season. Joining us is Rachel Caudy, Director of the SVRC Marketplace in downtown Saginaw.Rachel highlights the incredible value of supporting the 30+ local businesses housed in the SVRC Marketplace, including several past podcast guests! From exceptional customer service to hearing the inspiring stories behind these businesses, shopping local is more than a transaction—it's a connection. Learn how yo...
2024-11-1530 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM Holiday Edition with Angela Webb - Travel with AngSend us a textEpisode 14 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast kicks off our Holiday Series with a special guest, Angela Webb of Travel with Ang! 🎄✈️As the travel expert you need for the holiday season, Angela shares valuable tips to make your upcoming trips smoother and stress-free. From booking the perfect destination to navigating travel insurance, Angela covers everything you need to know to make your holiday travel plans a breeze. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or planning a group getaway, this episode is pack...
2024-11-0131 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Renee Hawkins Morris - You Originals Unlimited/COSBE INCSend us a textIn Episode 13 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, we sit down with the inspiring Renee Hawkins Morris, owner of You Originals Unlimited, a tailoring and alterations shop where she showcases her talent for original designs. Renee’s entrepreneurial journey began at the young age of 6, and over 60 years later, she’s still blazing trails.Not only is Renee a seasoned entrepreneur, but she’s also the founder of COSBE INC.—the Chamber of Successful Black Entrepreneurs in Saginaw, MI. After overcoming the chal...
2024-10-1827 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Jimmy Greene - Saginaw SpiritSend us a textEpisode 12 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast features Jimmy Greene, the VP of Marketing & Community Relations for the Saginaw Spirit, your 2024 Memorial Cup Champions! 🏆In this episode, Jimmy shares his wealth of experience in both entrepreneurship and community relations. He dives deep into how fostering strong community ties is essential for driving transformation and growth, not just in sports, but in every sector. From his insights on the Spirit’s recent championship journey to his broader perspective on what it takes to build a thriving, inclu...
2024-10-0425 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/Gabrielle Kingsbury - Thrive Creative InnovationsSend us a textIn Episode 11 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, we chat with Gabrielle Kingsbury, the incredible owner and art creator behind Thrive Creative Innovations. Gabrielle’s gift shop is a hub of positive art, apparel, apothecary, and handmade goods, featuring her well-known "Saginaw is for Lovers" and "Saginaw Dreamers Society" apparel collections.Driven by her deep love for her hometown of Saginaw, Michigan, Gabrielle has created a platform for local creators with Saginaw Made, a website where area makers can showcase and sell their goods. Her journey doesn’t sto...
2024-09-2043 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Angela Webb - Travel with AngSend us a textJoin us for Episode 10 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, featuring Angela Webb, the powerhouse behind Travel with Ang. As an Independent Travel Advisor and the first 1 Star Director in Michigan, Angela has 100 ITAs (Independent Travel Advisors) under her wing, making her the ultimate travel guru.Angela helps clients plan unforgettable vacations, turning dreams into reality. But she doesn’t stop there—Angela is also passionate about helping others start their own travel businesses. If you’re booking vacations, why not get paid for it? Angela’s expertise and guidance can help you...
2024-09-0632 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Kristen Allen - Essentially Unique Apothecary & WellnessSend us a textJoin us for Episode 8 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, featuring Kristen Allen, the founder of Essentially Unique Apothecary & Wellness. Kristen's company is dedicated to holistic self-care and wellness, specializing in essential oil-infused, organic, plant-based products that promote safer and healthier lifestyles.As a Registered Nurse (BSN), Certified Natural Health Educator (Naturopathic Doctor in progress), Herbalist, Certified Yoni Steamer, and Organic Skincare Formulator, Kristen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her business. Her journey began with an essential oil kit and a deep dive into the toxic nature of...
2024-08-2336 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Amy Thomas - Believe Inspire Beauty Clothing BoutiqueSend us a textJoin us for Episode 8 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, featuring Amy Thomas, the inspiring owner of Believe Inspire Beauty Clothing Boutique in Bay City, MI. Amy's boutique is dedicated to empowering women, with a strong belief that fashion has no age or size—it's all about rocking your unique style.In addition to her work in fashion, Amy is the founder of the Believe & Inspire Bullying Organization. This organization offers "Be Kind" boxes, a discreet way for individuals to communicate that they are being bullied and to receive support and so...
2024-08-0943 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Charlene Cofie Orange - Executive Business SolutionsSend us a textJoin us for Episode 7 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, featuring Charlene Cofie Orange, the owner and CEO of Executive Business Solutions in the Great Lakes Bay Region.Charlene's company offers a range of essential services including bookkeeping, financial reporting, notary services, and customized database creation. Specializing in helping individuals and small businesses succeed, Charlene brings her expertise and dedication to every client she serves.In this episode, Charlene shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from a traditional 9-5 job to full-time entrepreneurship. Discover the challenges she faced, the...
2024-07-2641 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Arielle Roth - Arielle Roth Photography, Arielle Roth Boudoir, Elemental MarketingSend us a textJoin us for Episode 6 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, featuring the dynamic entrepreneur Arielle Roth. As the owner of Elemental Marketing, Arielle Roth Boudoir, and Arielle Roth Photography, Arielle's expertise spans graphic design, photography, and marketing. She masterfully blends aesthetics with analytics to create impactful campaigns from her private studio in Downtown Bay City, Michigan.With nearly a decade of experience in shooting and designing, Arielle has developed a special passion for boudoir photography. Her journey to sobriety in March 2021 marked a pivotal moment in her life, inspiring her to...
2024-07-1236 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Dr. Christina Dillard Jackson - iMix LLCSend us a textGet ready for Episode 5 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, featuring Dr. Christina Dillard Jackson, the dynamic owner of iMix, LLC.Dr. Chris is an independent alcohol consultant and instructor with the Michigan and National Restaurant Associations. Her company, iMix, LLC, specializes in providing mobile bartending and beverage services for all occasions, from weddings and birthdays to corporate events and game nights.In this episode, Dr. Chris shares her journey into the world of mobile bartending, her expertise as an alcohol consultant, and the unique services offered by iMix...
2024-06-2832 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Brandi Bates Johnson - Shangr'La Candle Co.Send us a textGet ready for Episode 4 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, where we sit down with Brandi Bates Johnson, the innovative owner of Shangri'La Candle Co.Brandi's entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of inspiring. As the mastermind behind a thriving business that offers hand-poured luxury custom candles, a unique candle bar experience, private parties, candle refill services, self-care products, and a massage studio, she has truly created a self-care haven.In this episode, Brandi shares her passion for crafting high-quality, custom candles and the creative process behind her diverse range...
2024-06-1433 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Cierra Crudup - Delicious Sweets BakeshopSend us a textIn Episode 3 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, we're thrilled to feature Cierra Crudup, the dynamic owner of Delicious Sweets Bakeshop, nestled inside the SVRC Marketplace.Cierra's passion for baking and entrepreneurship shines through as she shares her journey from home baker to business owner. Discover how she turned her love for creating delectable treats into a thriving bakeshop, overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities along the way.Join us as Cierra discusses her experiences, the importance of community support, and her vision for the future of Delicious Sweets Bakeshop...
2024-05-3130 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Ja'Maiya Ryan - Ryan Studios & CoSend us a textJoin us for Episode 2 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast as we explore the inspiring journey of Ja'Maiya Ryan, a fashion entrepreneur from Saginaw, MI.After earning her degree in Fashion Accessories Design from the College for Creative Studies, Ja'Maiya founded her own accessories company, specializing in luxurious yet affordable handbags. Her vision is to make elegance accessible without the high price tag.Tune in to hear Ja'Maiya's story of determination and creativity as she navigates the competitive world of fashion entrepreneurship. Discover what drives her passion and aspirations...
2024-05-1732 min
Entrepreneur Like Me PodcastELM w/ Alesha Martin Lane - Kakes the Great Sweets ShopSend us a textWelcome to the inaugural episode of the ELM Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of entrepreneurship with our special guest, Alesha Martin Lane, co-owner of Kakes the Great Sweets Shop. Join us as Alesha shares her incredible story of co-founding her business. From the initial idea to the challenges and triumphs along the way, Alesha provides valuable insights and lessons learned for aspiring entrepreneurs.Discover how she helped turned her daughter Kaylynn's passion for creating delicious snacks into a successful business venture, and gain practical a...
2024-05-0341 min