Voices of Detroit

Voices of Detroit #49-LaFontaine Automotive Group

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:09:00 GMT

Voices of Detroit #49-Lafontaine Automotive Group

Detroit has long been known as the "Automotive Capital of the World" but as we know competition has changed that somewhat. To stay ahead of the game, the automotive industry is adapting and no one eptimizes that as much as LaFontaine Automotive Group.

LaFontaine has built a brand-new automotive 63,000 square foot showcase in Highland, Michigan that is Gold Leed certified, the first GM dealership in the country to qualify for the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design under the Green Building rating system.

LaFontaine also has embraced the new online world along with complete customer care which includes a cafe, a salon and even loaner laptops on-premise!

Find out more about this forward thinking automotive group on this edition of Voices of Detroit.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_49-LaFontaine_Automotive_Group.mp3

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Kelly LaFontaine www.FamilyDeal.com 866-LaFontaine

Specialty Operations Manager at LaFontaine Automotive Group and Buyer/Operations Manager of Lady La’s Boutique.

I have been raised in the Automotive Industry. I am on many non-profit committees, love to shop, and enjoy raising my children.

Carol Peters www.FamilyDeal.com 866-LaFontaine

Business-to-Business Coordinator at LaFontaine Automotive Group.

We have received: Q2 Quality People, Quality County Award
Buisness of the Year Award from Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce
Gold LEED Certified

Carlito Mojica, Jr. www.FamilyDeal.com 8660LaFontaine

Carlito Mojica Jr. is a proud father of 3 sons and 1 daughter. Married to his wife Nicole for 10 years. Currently is an Ecommerce Director for the LaFontaine Automotive Group.

Not only does he love to spend time with his family but also enjoys camping, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking and martial arts. Carlito was raised in Clarkston and attended Waterford Public Schools and Oakland University

Voices of Detroit #48-Advanced PetCare of Oakland and OATS

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 10:57:55 GMT

Voices of Detroit #48-Advanced PetCare of Oakland and OATS

Just like a bad rash, Voices of Detroit is back in 2010 and kicks off the new year (yeah, I know it's March already) with three shows recorded at the Hamlin Pub in Clarkston, MI.

First up, Nancy Heussner the founder of O.A.T.S. (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles) This is a non-profit organization that uses horse riding therapy for special needs individuals from children to adults.

Also in this Voices of Detroit, Dr. Bryan Cornwall, the founder and President of Advanced PetCare of Oakland talks about building his business and the care and treatment of pets. He also gives us information on a program that helps abandoned animals.

Listen and learn in this edition of Voices of Detroit

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_48-Advanced_PetCare_of_Oakland_and_OATS.mp3

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Nancy Huessner http://www.oatshrh.org/ 248-620-0505

I run a Therapeutic Riding Center O.A.T.S. right down from one of Kid Rocks homes. We have a 50 acre facility and service 120 special needs riders a week yr. round.

We are a non profit and also our 18 horses are all donated to us. So you could say we rescue horses as well. Our special need riders range in ages from 24mo. to 74 yrs old.

We have 2 wonderful videos on our website to show what we do. We currently service 4 counties Oakland, Wayne, Genessee, Livingston and Macomb. O.A.T.S Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles, Inc.

Dr. Bryan Cornwall http://www.advanced-petcare.com/ 248-620-2900

Own and manage a full-service small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care.

Responsible for all aspects of hospital including medical care, customer service, inventory control, hiring, training, marketing, sales, and growth strategies.

Grew business from one veterinarian with annual sales of $120K to three veterinarians and fourteen support staff with annual sales of over $1M.

Planned and oversaw construction of new 13,000 sq. ft. free standing building in 2007. Moved business from 1,400 sq. ft. storefront hospital to new building with hospital occupying 5,000 sq. ft. Leased remaining 8,000 sq. ft. to Camp Bow Wow, a dog daycare and boarding facility franchise with over eighty-five locations nationwide implementing the first veterinary/Camp Bow Wow combination in existence.

Voices of Detroit #47-Mayor of Berkley and Berkley DDA Chairman

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 13:18:24 GMT

Voices of Detroit #47-Berkley Mayor and Berkley DDA

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin wrap up our three-show stop at Bagger Dave's in Berkley, Michigan with an in-depth conversation that gives great insight into the city.

City of Berkley Mayor Marilyn Stephan, a resident of the city with her husband George since 1957 and Berkley Downtown Development Authority Chairman Alan Semonian join Voices of Detroit to talk about another jewel in southeast Michigan.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_47-Mayor_of_Berkley_and_Berkley_DDA_.mp3

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Marilyn Stephan    Http://BerkleyMich.org     248-658-3300

Marilyn Stephan has lived in Berkley since 1957 with her husband George, who has lived in Berkley since 1940. Marilyn was elected Councilmember in November 1999, Mayor in November 2005 and most recently re-elected Mayor in November 2007.

A graduate of Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota, Marilyn taught at Anderson Middle School, Norup Middle School and Berkley High School. Prior to her retirement in 1995, she served as President of the Berkley Education Association for ten years. The Stephans are members of Cana Lutheran Church. Marilyn is also a member of the Michigan Education Association-Retired and member of the Friends of the Berkley Public Library.

As Mayor, Marilyn serves as the chair of all council meetings and is the ceremonial head of government for the city.

Alan Semonian    http://berkleydda.com/   Twitter: @BerkleyDDA

Alan Semonian is the chair of the Berkley Downtown Development Authority.

He is the President of Ameritax Plus, a full service accounting and tax service. He is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the American Institute of CPAs and the Michigan Association of CPAs.

He is also a financial advisor and provides full investment and financial planning services. He holds a Series 7, Series 63, and a Life, Accident, and Health license and is registered in 8 states.

He received a B.A. from Albion College in Economics & Management and has a Masters in Business Admistration from Harvard University.

In addition to serving as chair of the Berkley DDA, he also was appointed by the Governor the Michigan Board of Social Work.

Voices of Detroit #45-Berkley Chamber and Bagger Daves

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:23:00 GMT

Voices of Detroit #45--Berkley Chamber and Bagger Daves

Voices of Detroit has journeyed to Berkley, Michigan to highlight another jewel in the Southeastern Michigan area.
We kickoff a series of three shows in Berkley by setting up shop at Bagger Daves on Coolidge Avenue and talking with Shannon Kubenez the Director of Marketing for Diversified Restaurant Holdings which operates Bagger Daves and Julie Melrose the Executive Director for the Berkley Chamber of Commerce.

Listen and learn about another great part of the state of Michigan!

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_45-Bagger_Daves_and_Berkley_Chamber.mp3

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Julie Melrose    julie@berkleychamber.com    www.berkleychamber.com

Julie Melrose joined the Berkley Chamber of Commerce in June 2007 as the Executive Director. She has been a Berkley resident for 14 years. Julie brings over 10 years experience in account and project management, sales, and training. She has an extensive amount of volunteer experience and has served on numerous boards and committees within the Berkley community.

Julie graduated from Michigan State University with a B.A. in Communication.

The Berkley Chamber of Commerce has 105 members and continues to grow. The mission of the Chamber is to promote and encourage business in Berkley by establishing a working relationship between the city and its businesses. The Chamber provides a variety of networking and sponsorship opportunities, publicity through the Chamber web site, monthly newsletter, and Chamber directory. The Chamber is part of a team of community leaders and volunteers. The Berkley Chamber works closely with the City of Berkley and the DDA to promote Berkley businesses and enhance the quality of life for Berkley residents.

Shannon Kubenez http://www.baggerdaves.com/   248-543-DAVE

Shannon Kubenez is the Director of Marketing for Diversified Restaurant Holdings, Inc. (DRH)- a restaurant management company overseeing the operations and marketing of 16 Buffalo Wild Wings® locations in Michigan and Florida.

In 2008, DRH launched its own restaurant concept called Bagger Dave’s Legendary Burgers & Fries®. Kubenez has more than 9 years of marketing experience including: communications, public relations, event coordination and management.

She currently handles all marketing efforts for 16 Buffalo Wild Wings locations as well as oversees the advertising, promotions, local restaurant marketing, social media and brand strategy for Bagger Dave’s. She became a board member of the Berkley DDA in July 2009.

Voices of Detroit #44-Clarkston Union with Eric Lines

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:07:03 GMT

Voices of Detroit #44--Clarkston Union and Eric Lines

Voices of Detroit with hosts Larry Henry and David Benjamin couldn't wrap up their visit to the Clarkston Union without getting the 411on this great restaurant and bar.

Voices talks with manager Eric Lines about the establishment which is in a former church and has a Mac & Cheese that is die for! (Okay, we begged for it!) The beer list is like reading War & Peace..it's that long! They also have gotten into creating great smoke barbecue just down the street at the recently opened Clarkston Woodshop.

Listen to this Voices of Detroit on an empty stomach and you'll he headed to Clarkston within moments.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_44--The_Clarkston_Union--Eric_Lines.mp3

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Eric Lines    248-620-6100     54 South Main Street, Clarkston, MI

(Eric is a man of mystery but great food and beer!)

Voices of Detroit #43-Clarkston Legal and Four Seasons ChemDry

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:20:43 GMT

Voices of Detroit #43-Clarkston Legal and Four Season ChemDry

After chowing down following recording their first Voices of Detroit program at the Clarkston Union, hosts Larry Henry and David Benjamin welcome two local Clarkston business people to sit in front of their microphones.

Tammy Ullyart owns Four Seasons ChemDry with her husband. Timothy Flynn is an attorney with Clarkston Legal.

Sit back, relax, listen and learn about their business, how they use social media and what the town of Clarkston has to offer for both business and families.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_43-Clarkston_Legal_and_Four_Seasons_ChemDry.mp3

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Tammy Ullyart http://www.chem-dry.net/fourseasons.mi    248-625-9921

Tammy started Four Seasons ChemDry almost 4 years ago, after deciding to leave a 12 year career in the Auto Industry. In February of this year, Tammy and her husband, Goy, were the recipients of two National Awards from ChemDry – the Presidents Award and Marketer of the Year Award.

It had been Tammy’s long passion to own her own business. At age 13, she started working for a woman who owned a real estate brokerage firm and that inspired much of Tammy’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Tammy has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University. She has three beautiful children and has been a Clarkston resident for the past 10 years.

Timothy Flynn          www.ClarkstonLegal.com      248-625-0600

Mr. Flynn has been licensed to practice law in Michigan since 1989. He is a general practitioner concentrating in the areas of divorce and family law, criminal law, and probate litigation. Mr. Flynn is among the first attorneys in Michigan to complete the Family Law Certificate Program offered by the Institute for Continuing Legal Education in Ann Arbor, MI.

Flynn is approved to defend Major Felonies by the Oakland County Circuit Court Administrator. He represents his clients in jury trials across Michigan. He served as defense counsel for the 52/2nd District’s Sobriety Court in Clarkston, MI from it’s inception in 2004, until January 2009. Mr. Flynn is also a Special Assistant Attorney General to the Michigan Department of the Attorney General.

In addition to his trial work, Mr. Flynn maintains an appellate practice, appearing in the Michigan Supreme Court, Michigan Court of Appeals, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

Voices of Detroit #42-Clarkston and Michigan Chamber of Commerce

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:35:32 GMT

Voices of Detroit #42-Clarkston and Michigan Chamber of Commerce

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin journey to northern Oakland County to not only check out the outstanding Clarkston Union and it's long list of beers but to also learn about the Clarkston and Michigan Chamber of Commerce.

Hear what both Chamber organizations are doing to help business grow as we talk with Clarkston Chamber Executive Director Penny Shanks and Bob Thomas the Director of Operations for the Michigan Chamber of Commerce.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_42-Clarkston_and_Michigan_Chamber_of_Commerce.mp3

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Penny Shanks    www.clarkston.org       Penny@Clarkston.org

Executive Director Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce since 1997

Chamber membership 550 in a suburban community of 32,000 residents

Chamber initiatives include three monthly networking events, weekly eNewsletters, dynamic website and key community events such as the Best of the Best EXPO coming up Nov 12; Concerts in the Park—6 weeks of free concerts in Depot Park June/July and Taste of Clarkston held annually at the end of September.

An early adopter for social media—the Clarkston Chamber was the first Chamber is SE Michigan to tweet—and remains one of the few that has the twitter feed on our website. Maintaining social media doesn’t have to be a black hole of time wasted.

Bob Thomas    www.michamberconnect.org    BThomas@michamber.com

Bob Thomas is the Director of Operations for the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the Director of the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals (MACP). Bob has twelve years in the chamber industry assisting chambers of commerce in the areas of governance, program development, and strategic planning. Bob also manages the Council of State Chambers of Commerce, a national association, and sits on the boards of the Michigan Chamber Foundation, US Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organization Management Regents and several committees of the Michigan Society for Association Executives (MSAE).

Bob has a bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University and is working to complete his master’s degree in leadership from Central Michigan University.

Voices of Detroit #41-Brides Made Fit with Jenny DiDonato

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:18:08 GMT

Voices of Detroit #41-Brides Made Fit with Jenny DiDonato

Voices of Detroit hosts Larry Henry and David Benjamin venture into unknown waters in this episode as we talk physical fitness with a personal trainer. (Anyone that knows us realizes physical fitness isn't one of our main attributes.)

Owner of Brides Made Fit and Made Fit TV Jenny DiDonato tries to whip us into shape and also spread the word about how to create a better you.

You'll enjoy this show and maybe even get in the mood to actually get up and change the channel on the TV manually instead of with the remote!

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_41-Brides_Made_Fit-Jennifer_DiDonato.mp3

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Jennifer DiDonato     www.BridesMadeFit.com      Jenny@BridesMadeFit.com

Jennifer DiDonato is the owner and creator of Brides Made Fit, an in-home personal training service for brides-to-be and grooms across Metro Detroit.

Her goal with Brides Made Fit was to make health and fitness more attainable and convenient during the busy and stressful time of planning a wedding. This is made easier because brides-to-be are trained inside their own homes.

Made Fit TV provides health and fitness information and entertainment to everyone! I'm Jennifer DiDonato, a certified personal trainer. I provide a simple and fun approach to exercise and weight-loss through my knowledge, experience, and love for it!

Voices of Detroit #40-ITC Holdings with Linda Blair

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:35:57 GMT

Voices of Detroit #40-ITC Holdings-Linda Blair

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin hits the 40 show mark as we get "electrified" in this latest program.

We've all seen those big electrical towers across Michigan but does anyone really understand "the grid" of which they are an integral part?

Linda Blair, Executive Vice President and Chief Business Officer of ITC Holdings, the company that owns and operates those towers and associated lines in Michigan, talks to Voices of Detroit about the challenges the company faces and where it is headed with a shift to Green Power.
Listen and learn!

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_40-ITC_Holdings_with_Linda_Blair.mp3

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Linda H. Blair        www.ITCTransco.com

Ms. Blair is executive vice president and chief business officer for ITC Holdings Corp. She is responsible for managing each of ITC's regulated operating companies and the necessary business support functions, including regulatory strategy, federal and state legislative affairs, community government affairs, human resources, marketing and communications, and information technologies and facilities.

Ms. Blair was formerly senior vice president of business strategy for ITC. In this capacity she was responsible for the development and execution of all of ITC's short-and long-term strategic planning, including the newly created ITC Grid Development subsidiary.

Ms. Blair was manager of transmission policy and business planning while ITC was a subsidiary of DTE Energy. Ms. Blair has also served as a supervisor of regulatory relations within Detroit Edison's Regulatory Affairs organization. In this position, her responsibilities included the development and management of all regulatory relations and communications activities with the Michigan Public Service Commission and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Ms. Blair earned both her MBA and a Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs Management from Michigan State University and is a board member of The Heat and Warmth (THAW) Fund and the Novi Parks Foundation.

Voices of Detroit #39—Panera Bread with Lee Carmona

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:35:32 GMT

Voices of Detroit #39-Panera Bread with Lee Carmona

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin has journeyed forth to West Bloomfield, Michigan in search of sustenance and found themselves at a very familiar place not only for the hungry but also America's new entrepreneur...Panera Bread!

Voices of Detroit looks past the freshly baked bread and free Wifi to find out the real story of Panera Bread with Great Lakes Area Director Lee Carmona.

Check out our conversation and learn more about for what many of us is our second home.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_39-Panera_Bread_with_Lee_Carrmona.mp3

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Lee Carmona    www.panerabread.com       Twitter: @PaneraBread

Lee Carmona is the area director of the Great Lakes market for Panera Bread, which includes 55 bakery-cafes in metro Detroit, Lansing, Ann Arbor and Toledo. He’s worked with Panera for almost eight years, both as a multi-unit operations manager and the director of franchise training. Carmona has 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry. He lives in Northville with his wife Michele and their two daughters, Courtney and Grace.

Panera Bread serves fresh baked, handcrafted artisan breads, sweet and savory baked goods, hand-tossed salads, wholesome soups, and signature sandwiches in a distinctly warm and welcoming environment. Panera Bread is committed to using great tasting, quality ingredients in the food it offers and contributing to the neighborhoods in which its customers and employees live and work through programs like Operation Dough-Nation®.

Voices of Detroit #38-The Designate with Tom Proctor

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 10:58:01 GMT

Voices of Detroti #38-The Designate with owner Tom Proctor

This is a very important edition of Voices of Detroit. Hosts Larry Henry and David Benjamin share with you information on a new service that is helping get drunk drivers off the road and safely home.

Tom Proctor is the owner and creator of The Designate. This is a service that comes and picks you up when you realize you've been over served. However, they also pick up your vehicle too and drive it home as there are two drivers on every call.

Please listen to this Voices of Detroit and share it with as many friends as you can to get the information on this important service known through out the community.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_38-The_Designate_with_Tom_Proctor.mp3

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Tom Proctor www.TheDesignate.com   1-888-929-8282

The Designate – a true Detroit success story. This is a service that drives you home, in your own car, after an evening of entertainment. Started by a Metro Area entrepreneur, Tom Proctor, they are moving into a new office to handle the growing demand for their service. It also helps keep drunk drivers off the road

Voices of Detroit #37-Caribou Coffee with Vicky Valente

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:53:18 GMT

Voices of Detroit #37-Caribou Coffee and Vicky Valente

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin continues our visit to Caribou Coffee in Royal Oak, Michigan in this edition as we talk with Grosse Pointe Store Manager Vicky Valente.

We all think we know Caribou Coffee having had coffee and working at their various locations around metro Detroit, but do we really? Vicky gives us some insight into the company.

Vicky also tells Voices of Detroit about Caribou Coffee's involvement with the Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit "Pay it 4ward" campaign.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_37-Caribou_Coffee_with_Vicky_Valente.mp3

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Vicky Valente Store Manager Grosse Pointe, MI   www.cariboucoffee.com

Caribou Coffee supports the ongoing and sustainable production of coffee. For every pound of coffee we buy, we allocate funds to support socially responsible initiatives in coffee-producing communities.

With our help, our communities are able to:

Build clinics

Finance schools

Invest in reforestation efforts

Support water-cleaning programs

Voices of Detroit #36 Goodwill Industries and Mark Lane

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:53:02 GMT

Voices of Detroit #36-Goodwill Industries with Mark Lane

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin are in Royal Oak, Michigan at Caribou Coffee for this edition of the show.

We have an important conversation with Mark Lane, Director of Public Relations & Special Events for Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit. We find out about the new “Pay It 4ward” program that is an investment in Detroit, its people and economy.

We also find out exactly what Goodwill Industries does and hopefully change some long held assumptions about an organization that is retraining thousands of Detroit area residents for new jobs.

Take 15 minutes and listen to this program and most importantly, we ask you become a part of the Pay It 4ward program!

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_36--Mark_Lane_and_Goodwill_Industries.mp3

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Mark Lane www.GoodwillDetroit.org Twitter: @GoodwillDet

Mark is currently the Director of Public Relations & Special Events for Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit.

Mark started out his career working for the Palace Sports & Entertainment before moving to WDIV Channel 4 where he was a sports producer and worked with Bernie Smilovitz.

Mark moved on to the PR world and two years ago joined Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit.

Goodwill is the only organization in Metro Detroit solely dedicated to fighting local unemployment. No, they don’t do “old clothes” anymore. They are putting people back to work and preparing them for the regions jobs of the future.

Voices of Detroit #35-Henry Balanon and David Murray

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 11:07:24 GMT

Voices of Detroit #35-Henry Balanon & David Murray

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin continued their stay at Slows Bar-B-Q in Corktown by talking with iPhone App creator extraordinaire Henry Balanon and social media aficionado David Murray.

Unfortunately Larry and David lost control of the show very early on as multiple off-topic meanderings occurred. Still, we think you'll both enjoy and learn in this latest Voices of Detroit.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_35-Henry_Balanon__David_Murray.mp3

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Henry Balanon www.bickbot.com     Twitter: @Balanon

Henry Balanon is the founder and lead developer at iPhone app company, Bickbot.com . He writes for GigaOm’s theappleblog.com covering Apple iPhone software development and also detroitstartups.net covering Metro Detroit startups.

He is a foodie contributor for www.twohungrydudes.com as well as a Metro Detroit Yelp Elite.

David Murray   www.bivings.com     Twitter: @DaveMurr

David currently serves as Director, Social Web Communications for The Bivings Group and carries extensive experience in online community management, social media, and product development. He has also served as a consultant for web development and marketing strategies.

Fully immersed in social media practices and methodologies, David enjoys “pushing the norm” when creating engaging user experiences.Having moved back to Michigan after a 10 year absence, he his happy to lend his talents to the Detroit area.

Voices of Detroit #34-Joe Foodie and Slows Barb-B-Q

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:06:00 GMT

Voices of Detroit #34--Joe Foodie & Slows BBQ

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin took our rumbling empty stomachs to Corktown and filled them up with great food from Slows Barb-B-Q on Michigan Avenue.

Somehow, after eating more than any human should, Larry and David talked with Phillip Cooley, co-owner of Slows Barb-B-Q and Joe Hakim, better known as "Joe Foodie" of TwoHungryDudes.com.
If you like food, this is definitely your type of Voices of Detroit!

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_34-Slows_BBQ__Joe_Foodie.mp3

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Joe Hakim(a.k.a Joe Foodie) Joe@JoeFoodie.com   Twitter: @JoeFoodie

Joe Hakim is one of the two dudes at http://twohungrydudes.com. A life long lover of food, Joe has just recently started to share his love with others on Twitter (http://twitter.com/joefoodie) and Yelp (http://joefoodie.yelp.com). His motto is "I'll try anything once & probably again."

Detroit has been a great place for Joe's love of food to blossom with many great ethnic and mom & pop restaurants in the area. You can contact Joe on Twitter or by e-mail at Joe@JoeFoodie.com or you might find him around town eating some lamb tongue or beef head.

Phillip Cooley www.slowsbarbq.com     313-962-9828

Slows Barb-B-Q is an 80-seat restaurant on Michigan Avenue that sells moderately priced barbecue ribs, pulled pork, several sandwiches and sides that are a meal in themselves.

Voices of Detroit #33-Adrian Pittman and Jaron Rothkop

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:36:09 GMT

Voices of Detroit #33-Adrian Pittman and Jaron Rothkop

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin, unable to move after lunch at El Rancho Mexican Restaurant in Mexicantown, invite two bright entrepreneurial minds to join us for a spirited discussion.

Adrian Pittman, a partner at Module, is a business innovator who believes that crafting a successful brand requires both art and science.

Jaron Rothkop has taught at several universities, led his own product design practice, worked in twenty different countries, and holds a number of product and process patents. He co-founded Rhode Solutions in 2009.

Even though Larry and David were intellectually over matched, we think you'll glean some very useful information from the discussion in this edition of Voices of Detroit.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_33-Adrian_Pittman_and_Jaron_Rothkop.mp3

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Adrian Pittman   www.wearemodule.com     Twitter: @AdrianPittman

Adrian Pittman is a business innovator who believes that crafting a successful brand requires both art and science. It’s about thinking big-picture strategy, forging the right relationships, and creating the most customer-relevant story. It’s a holistic framework of high-tech and high-touch – where the building blocks are synthesized into a new form that’s more compelling than the sum of its parts.

Adrian has more than 15 years of high-tech marketing and brand development experience partnering with Fortune 500 companies on both the domestic and international fronts. He directed web-based design and messaging initiatives for Apple, Nissan and Infiniti for TBWA/Chiat/Day in Los Angeles, and Dish Network for Publicis in Seattle. With BBDO, he co-directed the launch of Chrysler's web-based campaign for their brand's introduction into Eastern Europe. He also served as marketing director for several investments groups to facilitate their strategic branded launches in the US and abroad.

Jaron Rothkop    www.RhodeSolutions.com    JRothkop@RhodeSolutions.com

Jaron Rothkop is a product strategy and market research consultant.

After studying product and furniture design at Detroit's Center for Creative Studies, Jaron went to work for a software company developing design tools for the fashion and furniture textile industries. His new processes were adopted by the automotive industry and he joined Lear Corporation, one of the largest global automotive suppliers. After cutting the company’s development time by two-thirds he went on to lead the product design team, start up an in-house marketing department, start up the company's first internet, manage an advance product development group, and manage collaboration with universities such as MIT's Media Lab to turn emerging technologies into new automotive industry products. His time at Lear included experience in business development, benchmarking, marketing, purchasing and designing products for just about every major automaker.

After an assignment overseas and global deployment of a new cost optimization process, Jaron joined J.D. Power and Associates' automotive consulting practice. At J.D. Power he developed methods to assess the market for new technologies, launched new research focused on understanding unmet customer needs, and led projects to improve customer satisfaction and quality for global automakers and their suppliers.

Jaron co-founded Rhode Solutions in 2009 to develop new tools and processes for market research, competitive intelligence, and strategic planning.

Jaron has taught at several universities, led his own product design practice, worked in twenty different countries, and holds a number of product and process patents

Voices of Detroit #32-Mexicantown-El Rancho Mexican Restuarant and Southwest Detroit Business Association

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:49:58 GMT

Voices of Detroit #32 Mexicantown-El Rancho Restuarant and Southwest Detroit Business Association

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin visited Mexican Town in this edition to take in the culture and the food. (ESPECIALLY THE FOOD!)

El Rancho Mexican Restaurant on Vernor has been a part of the Mexicantown culture for almost 30 years. Jeanette Avila's parents opened the restaurant during the economic downturn of the 80's and now is its Director. She talks to us about the history of the restaurant and how the authentic Mexican food comes from her Mother's recipes.

Kathy Wendler is the President of the Southwest Detroit Business Association. Kathy gives Voices of Detroit insight into multi-cultural aspect of what is termed Mexicantown and how diverse the business community is.

This is definitely one Voices of Detroit you don't want to miss and you'll go away planning to make a trip to Mexicantown and southwest Detroit soon!

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_32-Mexican_Town-El_Rancho_Restaurant_and_Southwest_Detroit_Business_Association.mp3

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Jeanette Avila    www.elranchomexrest.net       (313) 843-2151

Since November of 2000, Jeanette Avila has served as the Director of El Rancho Mexican Restaurant where she is responsible for all business operations, including business development and retention, marketing and advertising, customer service, catering, employee training and management. Under her leadership, Avila managed the restaurant’s half a million dollar renovation and expansion that resulted in three times the floor space, safer working conditions and improved food production capabilities.

She is actively involved within the community serving as a member of the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Southwest Detroit Business Association. Avila also maintains a seat on the Hispanic Scholarship Fund Board, the nation’s leading organization that supports higher education among Hispanics.

Kathleen Wendler www.southwestdetroit.com Kathyw@southwestdetroit.com

With the SDBA since 1981, Wendler has been a catalyst in bringing change and fostering development in the Southwest Detroit community, attracting city support and a diverse funding base.

Ms. Wendler’s comprehensive approach to community revitalization has resulted in several public-private initiatives. Under her leadership, SDBA’s public policy undertakings include: partnering with the East Michigan Environmental Action Council to help found the Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision. Inc.; partnering with business and community interests to create the Mexicantown Community Development Corporation; producing a Community Income and Expenditures Model study of Southwest Detroit with Michigan State University; and working with the University of Michigan to research issues of tax reverted commercial properties, which resulted in the creation of the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization.

Wendler has also worked closely with the Southeast Michigan Greenways Initiative and the Community Foundation to create a southwest Detroit greenways plan. The SDBA has taken a leadership role in balancing commercial, residential and industrial development in southwest Detroit, actively participating in the design of the Detroit Intermodal Freight Terminal, and the future development of a second border crossing. Currently, the SDBA is implementing the first Business Improvement District in the state of Michigan along a 3.1 mile length of West Vernor and Springwells.

Voices of Detroit #31-LeSalon Bridal Salon and Crust Pizza and Wine Bar

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 09:17:03 GMT

Voices of Detroit #31-LeSalon Bridal Salon and Crust Pizza and Wine Bar

As Voices of Detroit hosts Larry Henry and David Benjamin munched down Neapolitan pizza at Crust Pizza and Wine Bar, they were able to wipe their mouths and talk to two great guests.

Alexis Williamson is the owner of Le Salon, a couture bridal salon in Royal Oak. She has established the "So-Co" initiative. The socially conscious bride is the antithesis to the "Bridezilla."

John Sherer is the owner of Crust Pizza and Wine Bar, upscale restaurants in Bloomfield Township and Rochester that features Neapolitan thin crust pizzas and great wine.

Listen and hear two more great stories about metro Detroit entrepreneurs.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_31-Le_Salon_Couture_Bridal_Salon__Crust_Pizza_and_Wine_Bar.mp3

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Alexis Williamson   www.volteweddings.com       info@volteweddings.com

Le Salon is a couture bridal salon located at 212 W. 11 Mile Rd, in Royal Oak, MI. Le Salon offers the ultimate couture experience. Off the international runways into Royal Oak. Owner, Alexis J. Williamson, is proud to have established the "So-Co" initiative. The Socially conscious bride is the antithesis to the "Bridezilla." She is gracious, elegant, sophisticated and worldly. One of ways we promote the "So-Co" brides is by donating 10% of all sales to a local charity of the brides choice.

Le Salon also founded "Creme de la Creme" charity event. The first event was held at the Detroit Athletic Club, and was the premier of the "Carrie Gown" form Sex and the City Movie by Vivienne Westwood. Le Salon was one of 3 boutiques selected in the country to have the gown and can order this for a special bride. The fashion event celebrated Design in Detroit by featuring Detroit's top Dzigners in the runway show. Every year Creme de la Creme Event will promote a unique cultural aspect of Detroit, ultimately promoting Detroit as a the Ultimate Cultural Destination.

The goal of Le Salon is to offer the highest level of service and satisfaction while elevating weddings to fine art.

John Scherer   www.crustpizza.net          248-855-5855

CRUST Hand-Crafted Pizza + Wine operates an upscale restaurant featuring Neapolitan, thin crust pizzas in a cool environment consisting of an open kitchen and dining room with natural wood elements, and a cool mix of lounge, ambient and relaxed electronic music. Really good pizza, really fun atmosphere, really smart service.

To complement our food, a carefully selected list of over 35 primarily American wines, all priced aggressively to encourage experimenting, sampling and sharing, and all available by either the bottle, the 6 ounce glass or in a symphony of three 2 ounce samples of a "build your own wine flight".

Voices of Detroit #30-Filmemerge.com and Movie Director Sam Kadi

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 09:18:49 GMT

Voices of Detroit #30-Filmemerge and Movie Director Sam Kadi

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin take up residence at Crust Pizza and Wine Bar, 6622 Telegraph Road in Bloomfield, Township to discuss Michigan's growing film industry.

Joining us on the program is Jonathan Rayos, CEO of Filmerge, "The production resource and film distribution center."

Sam Kadi is a movie director, producer, and screenwriter who resides in Walled Lake, Michigan and is having his short "Raised Alone" about to be featured at the Detroit-Windsor International Film Festival.

These two gentlemen give an insight into how the film industry is finding a home in Michigan and in some new programs unfolding to help workers prepare for jobs in the industry.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_30-Filmemerge_andMovie_Director_Sam_Kadi.mp3

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Sam Kadi     Movie Director,Writer,Producer    www.SamKProduction.com

Educational Background: B.S -Mechanical Engineering 1999 Diploma in Film Directing from Motion Picture Institute Of Michigan 2007

Films Written and Directed By Sam Kadi: Schizophrenia (27 minute) Schizophrenia is my first narrative film after graduating from the Filming School. The film was nominated for best Director in MPI Film Festival 2007 and second place for the Audience choice during the same festival.

YOUR CHOICE -Promo musical film (5 min) that was screened in a fundraising dinner to help building an Islamic High School . This film helped in raising 4 million dollars in one night at the fundrising Dinner. -YOUR CHOICE was Aired on 2 public access T.V's and was mentioned in Oakland Press Newspaper in Michigan.

Current film is “Raised Alone” which is being previewed at the Detroit-Windsor International Film Festival on Friday June 26th. http://www.dwiff.org/

Jonathan Rayos        www.filmemerge.com       JRayos@filmemerge.com

CEO/Co-founder of FilmEmerge.org and FilmEmerge.com

FilmEmerge.org is a 501(c)3, Michigan based non-profit organization. The FilmEmerge Foundation provides scholarships to deserving youth and retraining opportunities for displaced workers interested in the art of film documentary, narrative filmmaking and positions in major motion picture productions.

FilmEmerge.com is a Michigan online movie production resource and industry directory for film, television, video, live event and digital media production. The online webportal service was developed as a tool for locating film, motion picture production products, equipment, services and professionals.

President -Soya Technical Consulting-We offer custom software programming services, from simple web application and software development to outsourcing support and application enhancement.

Voices of Detroit #29-Integrated Directives and Red Ox Tavern

Larry Henry-David Benjamin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 09:29:21 GMT

Voices of Detroit #29--Integrated Directives and Red Ox Tavern

Voices of Detroit with Larry Henry and David Benjamin wrap up their stay at the Red Ox Tavern in Auburn Hills, Michigan by talking with a man that knows the business well, Manager Joe Church.

Joining Joe on this show is Jeremy Van Dam, Senior Director of Integrated Directives, a Michigan company that specializes in Special Operations missions and training and vulnerability assessments.

Direct download: Voices_of_Detroit_29-Integrated_Directives_and_Red_Ox_Tavern.mp3

Click here to subscribe to Voices of Detroit

Jeremy Van Dam        www.int-dir.com       JVD@int-dir.com

Jeremy Van Dam is the Senior Director at Integrated Directives Inc. He is
currently charged with engineering the transformation of IDI from a
successful defense contractor to a world class security consulting firm.

Mr.Van Dam's background is in corporate management and training, with a degree
in political science emphasizing comparative politics.

A dynamic and powerful speaker, he is experienced with regional, national, and
international audiences. With professional expertise in personnel and
physical security, Mr. Van Dam has done extensive international travel for
the last 10 years and has lived abroad.

He is skilled in both personal and professional travel tactics, techniques, and procedures. In addition to his current position, Mr. Van Dam maintains a successful consulting firm

Joe Couch    Manager Red Ox Tavern Auburn Hills   248-340-7070