Shows
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: 2025 Year in Review | Episode 10Chris Moyer and Allie Walker look back at the Michigan stories that defined 2025. They revisit the Northern Michigan ice storm that became the state’s largest natural disaster of the year, the tariff shock that disrupted the auto industry, and the early and crowded start to the 2026 governor’s race. They break down Detroit’s historic election of Mary Sheffield as the city’s first woman mayor, the long-debated road funding package that finally passed, and Ford’s late-year pullback from its EV plans. They also examine the growing scrutiny facing the MEDC and the uncertainty surrounding the future of Detroit...
2025-12-2233 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: The Holidays Are Coming | Episode 9Chris Moyer and John Truscott break down the Michigan stories that may not dominate headlines but will shape the year ahead. They look at Detroit’s fast-moving mayoral transition, the Legislature’s end-of-year push in Lansing, and a new report on Michigan’s strengths — and vulnerabilities — in the auto and mobility sector. Chris and John also share a history-and-politics holiday gift guide, highlighting books and experiences that bring clarity to a noisy moment. Then Chris is joined by Jer Staes of Daily Detroit to explore how local media is changing, why newsletters and podcasts matter, and what De...
2025-12-1847 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: Baby You Can Drive My Car | Episode 8Chris Moyer and Allie Walker dig into three Michigan stories that all point to the same big question: who is steering the state’s future and who is paying for it. They look at the state’s fast-growing data center buildout and the local concerns around water, energy, and community impact. They break down the political heat on the MEDC as Quentin Messer Jr. defends Michigan’s strategy for attracting jobs and investment. And they walk through Sen. Aric Nesbitt’s argument that Michigan cannot “Make it in Michigan” without a major reset of K–12 education. In the deep dive, Ch...
2025-12-1132 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: The Perfect Map Doesn't Exist | Episode 7This week on Beyond Both Sides, Allie Walker and guest co-host Ryan Gajewski (filling in for Chris Moyer) dig into three Michigan headlines that all circle the same question: who has the power and who benefits? They break down Detroit’s next move on the long-blighted Packard Plant, a Detroit Free Press column on lobbyist perks and political optics, and a new Democratic push to tie tax incentives more tightly to job creation and retention.Then they dive deep into Michigan’s never-ending redistricting saga — how map-making really works, why “fair” maps may be mathematically impossible, and whether it’s...
2025-12-0433 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: How To Talk Politics at Thanksgiving | Episode 6Chris Moyer and new co-host Allie Walker break down three major stories shaping Michigan’s future: an aging workforce that is slowing economic growth, a large share of young Detroiters who are thinking about leaving the city, and Michigan farmers facing collapsing exports linked to tariff fallout. Together, these trends show the growing gap between the state’s long-term goals and the daily pressures people are experiencing. In the deep dive, Chris and Allie offer practical ways to navigate political conversations at Thanksgiving. They explain how to set the right intentions, avoid persuasion traps, look for common ground...
2025-11-2523 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: The Complicated Legacy of Dick Cheney ┃Episode 5Chris kicks things off with the big Michigan stories of the week, from a major shift in voter sentiment to Ford’s $1.2B new HQ and a potential development boom in Grand Rapids.Then Ryan and Allie dive into the passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney — his complicated legacy, his influence on today’s GOP, and how leaders evolve in public.Plus: a surprising moment of political humility from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene sparks a conversation about what it really takes to disagree better.Smart politics. Honest conversations. No spin. Tune in now.
2025-11-2016 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: The Shutdown is Ending | Episode 4John Truscott and Chris Moyer unpack the deal ending the nation’s longest government shutdown, who won, who lost, and what it means for Michigan. They also dig into the state’s worst monthly job losses of the year and ask whether the Michigan Economic Development Corporation can be saved or if reform is the only path forward. Then, a deep dive with Ryan Gajewski on how algorithms are shaping what we see, what we believe, and how we talk to each other, and what communicators can do about it.
2025-11-1248 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: The “Daylight Saving” Edition │ Episode 3Chris Moyer and guest host Ryan Gajewski, Chief Strategy Officer at Truscott Rossman, unpack OpenAI’s massive Michigan investment, the future of economic development in the state, and key local election results. Plus, a deep dive into what Mary Sheffield’s historic election as Detroit’s first female mayor means for the direction of the city.
2025-11-0742 min
Truscott RossmanMy 1st Gig: Ryan Brown on Saying Yes, Showing Up, and Finding Your LaneIn this episode, Allie Walker and Ryan Gajewski welcome Ryan back to his old stomping grounds (yes, the red couch lives on). At the time, he was serving as Community & Partnerships Manager at The Dispatch, where he managed community engagement and podcast production. Before The Dispatch, Ryan spent nearly two years at NBC’s Meet the Press, researching interviews, crafting panel segments, and producing episodes of the Chuck Todd-cast. His path started with the John Carroll–Russert Fellowship at Meet the Press…and, even earlier, a formative internship right here at Truscott Rossman.
2025-11-0523 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: Why Can't We Be Friends? | Episode 2In this episode of Beyond Both Sides, hosts John Truscott and Chris Moyer unpack Michigan’s biggest political stories — from a Lansing court fight and new road-funding taxes to a sweeping legislative transparency package reshaping ethics in government.Then, they’re joined by Allie Walker, President of Truscott Rossman and Crain’s Grand Rapids 40 Under 40 honoree, for a candid conversation about leadership, communication, and finding common ground in divided times.Allie shares her path from Capitol Hill to the C-suite, the lessons she’s learned about curiosity and collaboration, and why authenticity is key to leading in today’s f...
2025-10-3051 min
Truscott RossmanMy 1st Gig: From Red Pens to Real Impact with MEDC’s Michelle GrinnellIn this episode of My First Gig, host Ryan Gajewski and co-host Allie Walker sit down with Michelle, who at the time of recording served as Senior Vice President of Market Growth & Business Attraction at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Since then, Michelle has been promoted to the role of Chief Communications & Attraction Officer, overseeing business attraction and market growth in her expanded capacity at the organization.
2025-10-2928 min
Truscott RossmanBeyond Both Sides: Do They Protest Too Much? | Episode 1Beyond Both Sides Smart. Civil. Real. Hosted by John Truscott and Chris Moyer, two trusted political communicators known for their work in government and public affairs, Beyond Both Sides goes deeper than partisan headlines to explore why the issues shaping Michigan and the nation really matter. Each episode blends sharp analysis, thoughtful disagreement, and practical insight on politics, policy, and communication in the era of the attention economy. From the latest developments in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and communities across Michigan to the national movements reshaping civic disco...
2025-10-2438 min
2025-10-2307 min
Truscott RossmanMy 1st Gig: Ken Bogard on Honest Leadership, Tough Lessons, and Building Teams That WinHosts Ryan Gajewski and Allie Walker sit down with leadership advisor and author Ken Bogard to dig into the power—and limits—of honesty at work. From managing a dine‑in Pizza Hut at 17 to turning around underperforming restaurants and guiding leadership teams today, Ken’s through‑line is simple: tell the truth, deliver it with love, and never lose who you are.
2025-10-2237 min
Truscott RossmanMy 1st Gig: Finding Leadership in the “Assistant To” Role — with Megan RydeckiBefore leading one of West Michigan’s premier leadership programs, Megan Rydecki got her start as assistant to the city manager in Wyoming, Michigan — a role that taught her how proximity, curiosity, and consistency can shape a career. In our latest episode, Megan joins Allie Walker and Ryan Gajewski to talk about: The value of “support” roles early in your career Why mid-sized cities are perfect for people who want to make an impact The leadership lessons that still guide her today Her story is a reminder that leadership doesn’t start...
2025-10-1530 min
Truscott RossmanMy 1st Gig: Ed Collazo on Hustle, Integrity, and Building Something That LastsIf you’ve spent any time around Grand Rapids’ food and beverage scene, you’ve probably felt the gravitational pull of City Built Brewing—part neighborhood hangout, part lab for creativity, and fully committed to community. In this episode of My 1st Gig, hosts Ryan Gajewski and Allie Walker sit down at City Built with owner Ed Collazo to trace the winding path that led him here—and the choices (and hard lessons) that keep him grounded. Like many of our guests, Ed’s first gig wasn’t glamorous. At 13, he was up before sunrise, riding his bike six miles...
2025-10-0835 min
Truscott RossmanMy 1st Gig: Katelyn Hanley Semelbauer: Lessons Learned from Working in Chicago PoliticsLearn how Katleyn grew from a part-time assistant job in Chicago politics to running statewide campaigns. Katelyn talks about how she "kind of liked" checking petition signatures in her early days of political consulting, how she got a former pawnbroker elected Lt. Governor of Illinois, and why work-life balance was important in her decision to leave that role.
2025-10-0141 min
Truscott RossmanMy 1st Gig: From Scrubbing Dishes to Shaping Policy with Andy JohnstonAndy Johnston went from scrubbing dishes at MSU to shaping policy at the Grand Rapids Chamber. Hear how small jobs, strong relationships, and seizing opportunities shaped his path to leadership.
2025-09-2424 min
Truscott RossmanMy 1st Gig: John VanderHaagen-- Career Shot Out of a Hot Dog Cannon!When John VanderHaagen took his first post-college job, he didn’t expect to be microwaving hot dogs for a mascot to shoot into the crowd. But as a Ticket Sales Account Executive for the Grand Rapids Griffins and Grand Rapids Rampage, John quickly learned that a job in minor league sports means wearing a lot of hats—and sometimes, dodging flying hot dogs.
2025-09-1730 min2025-08-2607 min
Brand in the Making by ThinkTank Thought LeadershipPR Secrets with Ryan Gajewski and Jonathan TasmanRyan Gajewski of Truscott Rossman reveals how public relations is evolving in a world of shrinking newsrooms, fast-moving tech, and AI-driven search. From storytelling vs. spin to why every piece of media is “earned,” Ryan shares bold takes on reputation, content, and leading PR strategy in today’s attention economy.Chapters: (00:00) Welcome & Introduction (01:35) From Film School to PR Leadership (07:10) How Technology Changed Media (13:25) AI, SEO & the New Rules of Attention (21:00) Why PR Must Embrace Change (28:40) Failing Fast & Finding What Works (34:55) Truscott Rossman’s Future-Focused Approach
2025-08-1528 min
Conversations with TinBridgeAntonice Strickland: Public Relations & Marketing Professional | Conversations with TinBridgeSUBSCRIBE HERE: https://www.youtube.com/TinBridge
Antonice drops by to discuss growing up in Ypsilanti, MI, her collegiate experience at Michigan State University and Georgetown University, the professional experience and connections she gained while living in Washington, DC, as well as her desire to return to her home state and give back to the community who helped shape who she is today. Antonice has been employed with reputable companies such as the Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan, Truscott Rossman, and she's currently the Vice President of Public Relations & Business Development with 98Forward...
2024-02-151h 11
PRofessionalLindsay Hart: What She Learned as a CMU IPR StudentJoin us for our final episode of the 2022 fall semester! Here we have a special guest, Lindsay Hart, a CMU IPR alumni. Let's hear what she has to say about her experience at CMU and what she is up to now at Truscott Rossman.
2023-01-2223 min
Stateside Daily ArchiveMI Politics Rundown: What Primaries PortendIt was a big week in Michigan politics. A panel of guests join guest host Zoe Clark for a look at the results of the primary elections, and what they tell us as we head into the general election. GUESTS: Emily Lawler, politics editor, Detroit Free Press Greg Bowens, founder, Bowens and Co. John Truscott, founder, Truscott Rossman Looking for more conversations from Stateside? Right this way. If you like what you hear on the pod, consider supporting our work. Music in this episode is by Blue Dot Sessions.
2022-08-0546 minStateside Daily Archive“This is it for me.” Rep. Upton to RetireThis week, longtime congressman, Fred Upton, took the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives and announced his retirement. Having represented Southwest Michigan since 1987, he's the longest serving member of Michigan's congressional delegation. Today, we’ll reflect on what it means to lose Fred Upton as a steadfast moderate in Congress. And we’ll listen back to bits of our conversations with him over the years. GUEST:Andrea Bitely, senior director at Truscott Rossman —— Looking for more conversations from Stateside? Right this way. If you like what you hear on the pod, c...
2022-04-0616 min
Back to BusinessTruscott Rossman & the Talent CrisisTalent is the big problem of 2022. On this episode of the Back to Business Podcast, we focus on how the Grand Rapids Chamber is working to overcome the talent gap.
Our guests this week are Allie Walker, Vice President at Truscott Rossman, and Mel Trombley, Director of Leadership Programs for the Grand Rapids Chamber. Allie is not a newcomer to our leadership programs, being an alumni of Leadership Grand Rapids and Speak with Purpose. Allie has also sent her team from across the state to our Speak with Purpose program.
In the episode, we take...
2022-03-2817 min
A Republic, If You Can Keep ItIt’s Not Just the Politicians…It’s Also Us (Guest: Ron Fournier)Joining the conversation this week: Ron Fournier, the former Washington DC bureau chief for the Associated Press and former publisher and editor of Crain’s Detroit Business. He now serves as president at Truscott Rossman, one of the state’s most respected public relations firm.
A Detroit native, Ron began his family and career in Arkansas, covering then-governor Bill Clinton before moving to Washington in 1993, where he covered the White House and national politics for The Associated Press during the administrations of Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama.
He’s also a former columnist for The Atlantic...
2021-06-0946 min
The Week That Was on Deadline DetroitA Major Michigan PR Firm Makes Detroit Its New HQ - A Talk with John Truscott About the MoveCraig's guest is John Truscott, of Truscott Rossman and Associates. The formerly Lansing based firm has decided to make Detroit its new headquarters, in an attempt to expand it's client base outside the State of Michigan.
2020-09-1717 min
Michigan ReimaginedEp. 91: Defeat-the-Breach: Cyber-security InitiativeCyber-security, data breaches, identity theft and ransomware hackers are making the news at a frightening pace. As we review the headlines, most readers still don’t get it and even if they do, they don’t likely know how to change their behaviors.Here to unpack this daunting topic are three experts who have recently created a coalition for this cause called Defeat the Breach:Jeff Detlof, President of Providence ConsultingThad Morgan, Attorney at Fraser TrebilcockBarb Holland, Director at Truscott Rossman PR
2020-01-2715 min
The Digital Forensics Files PodcastJeff Dettloff, Barb Holland and Theresa Kent of the Defeat The Breach Coalition Join Tyler Hatch of DFI ForensicsDefeat The Breach (defeatthebreach.org) is a cybersecurity awareness coalition of partners from IT, legal and public relations specialists bringing awareness and solutions to one single place!
About Defeat the Breach: It is predicted that in a couple short years, cybercrime will cost the global economy trillions of dollars. In 2017 alone, cyberattack-related costs for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) equaled over $2.2 million each. Furthermore, over 60% of SMBs go out of business within six months of a major cyberattack. The founding members of the Defeat the Breach Coalition saw these statistics and decided that something had to be...
2020-01-2430 min
Business RapBusiness Rap - January 19, 2017"Paving the Pathway for Women in the Workplace," with insights from Michelle Massey, Vice President of Business Operations for Dewpoint, Julie Haak, Corporate Director Of Human Resources of Neogen and Kelli Rossman, CEO of Truscott-Rossman. Next, Phil Zeller of Dale Carnegie - Michigan in our weekly "Ask Phil" segment. Then, Michigan Patrick Shiels uncovers the "Secrets of the Economist's Diet," with Dr. Christopher Payne #AskBizRap
2018-01-1955 min
Business RapPositioning Your Company for SuccessAccording to Business Directory the definition of brand positioning is “An effort to influence consumer perception of a brand or product relative to the perception of competing brands or products. It’s objective is to occupy a clear, unique and advantageous position in the consumers mind.” How well your business is positioned may determine how successful you will ultimately be. So how do you position your business for success? We have assembled a panel of top experts together to discuss. Hear insights from Camron Gnass, Founder and Creative Director of Traction Partners, Inc., Josh Hovey, Senior Vice President of Truscott Rossma...
2017-08-2455 min
Business RapHow to Improve Your Professional Image Ft. Senator Wayne Schmidt, Kelly Rossman-McKinney, and Melissa MeschkeFind out how to enhance your professional image with advice from Kelly Rossman-McKinney, APR, Chief Executive Officer and Principal of Truscott Rossman, Melissa Meschke, Chief Operating Officer of Michigan Creative and Senator Wayne Schmidt, General Manager of Captain's Quarters.
2017-06-0655 min
PR HangoverEpisode 4Joining the Podcast this week are Alex Fonseca (@AlexandreTurtle) and Delaney McCarrey (@DelaneyShae7) to discuss and recap the powerful and inspiring meeting about crisis management given by Kelly Rossman (@RossmanMckinney) from Truscott Rossman!
Dive into PR crisis management with the words of wisdom and examples shared in the meeting!
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2016-10-2028 min