Detroit Economic Club's Podcast

The DEC hosted the Honorable Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan Governor, on Monday, April 14, at MotorCity Casino Hotel. In an exclusive meeting for DEC members and accompanied guests, the Governor outlined the current progress on fixing the roads and where legislation stands on a sustainable, long-term solution. She was later joined on stage by Jamie Jacob of AJAX Paving for a fireside chat.

The DEC hosted the Honorable Gary Peters, Senior U.S. Senator for Michigan, on Monday, March 31, at the Masonic. Nolan Finley of The Detroit News moderated the discussion titled "Cementing Michigan's Leadership in National Security, Advanced Manufacturing, and Innovation."

The DEC hosted Patti Poppe, CEO of PG&E Corporation on Monday, March 3, at MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a moderated conversation with Dow Chair & CEO Jim Fitterling, Patti discussed "A Climate Optimist's Stand for Our Planet" and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted the 2025 Michigan Economic Outlook Meeting on Tuesday, January 21, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a conversation moderated by Daniel Howes, Rachael Eubanks, Treasurer of the State of Michigan, Quentin L. Messer, Jr., Chief Executive and Economic Competitiveness Officer at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and Gabriel Ehrlich, Director of Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics at the University of Michigan, shared their insights and more. Before the discussion, the 13th annual Michigan Economic Outlook Survey results were unveiled. You can view the survey results here: www.outlooksurvey.com.

The DEC hosted U.S. Federal Reserve System Governor Dr. Adriana D. Kugler on Tuesday, December 3, at The Masonic. Dr. Kugler discussed "The State of the U.S. Economy" and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted Former U.S. Representative Liz Cheney and ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl on Tuesday, October 22, at MotorCity Casino Hotel. 

The DEC hosted the University Research Corridor presidents on Tuesday, October 15, at the Masonic. University of Michigan President Santa Ono, Michigan State University President Kevin Guskiewicz, and Wayne State University President Kimberly Andrews Espy discussed how their institutions collaborate to lead groundbreaking research and attract and support companies.

The DEC hosted Ali Velshi, MSNBC Chief Correspondent and Host of "Velshi," on Monday, October 7, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a conversation moderated by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Ali discussed his book "Small Acts of Courage: A Legacy of Endurance and the Fight for Democracy" and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted the Honorable Debbie Stabenow, U.S. Senator for Michigan, on Wednesday, October 2, at the Masonic. WXYZ-TV Channel 7's Chuck Stokes moderated "The Exit Interview."

The DEC hosted Lael Brainard, Director, National Economic Council and White House National Economic Advisor, on Monday, September 23, at the Masonic. In a conversation moderated by Glenn Stevens of MichAuto, Miss Brainard discussed "Strengthening the U.S. Auto Industry" and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted David Burritt, President & CEO of U. S. Steel, on Tuesday, September 17, at the Masonic. In a conversation moderated by Hannah Lutz of Automotive News, Mr. Burritt discussed "FAn America as Strong as Steel" and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted Dan Gilbert, Founder & Chairman of Rocket Companies, on Friday, September 13, at the Icon.

The DEC hosted MSU Athletics: All Access on Friday, June 7, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. In a fireside chat with Jamie Edmonds, Michigan State University's Athletic Director Alan Haller, Head Men's Basketball Coach Tom Izzo, Head Men's Ice Hockey Coach Adam Nightingale, Head Women's Basketball Coach Robyn Fralick, and Head Women's Volleyball Coach Leah Johnson, discussed their student-athletes remarkable success on and off the field.

The DEC hosted Mary T. Barra, Chair & CEO of General Motors, on Thursday, May 23, at MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit. In an exclusive meeting for DEC members and accompanied guests, WDIV Local 4's Rhonda Walker moderated the fireside chat to discuss GM's strategic bets on the future and how the company is driving technology advancements and improving the customer experience with the potential to create a better world for all.

The DEC hosted Mike Sievert, CEO of T-Mobile, on Thursday, May 2, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a conversation moderated by Jackie Paige of WWJ Newsradio 950, Mike discussed "Forever Disrupting: T-Mobile's Evolution From Underdog to Leader in Wireless and Beyond" and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted Barbara McQuade, Former US Attorney and Current Law Professor at the University of Michigan Law School, on Tuesday, April 23, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a conversation moderated by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Barbara discussed her book "Attack from Within: How Disinformation is Sabotaging America" and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted Jim Fitterling, Chair & CEO of Dow, on Wednesday, April 17, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a conversation moderated by Daniel Howes of The Detroit News, Jim discussed "Possible and Profitable: Clean Energy & Decarbonization" and answered questions from the audience.

Detroit Lions fever is sky-high, and in a few short weeks, the city of Detroit will be center stage for the NFL Draft. Lions fans are keenly interested in the Lions draft and that topic is dominating conversations and sports media. So exactly what are the Lions needs for 2024 and who should they draft? A panel of Lions beat writers will debate these items in an interactive multimedia conversation. To get us started, Lions Team President Rod Wood will talk about the City's draft readiness and the successful approach the Lions organization has used in the last couple of years that has Lions fans everywhere buzzing.

The DEC hosted the 2023-2024 Detroit Red Wings at the MotorCity Casino Hotel on Wednesday, February 28. Ken Daniels and Mickey Redmond served as the Masters of Ceremonies for the 18th annual meeting.  In a lively roundtable discussion, members heard from Executive VP & General Manager Steve Yzerman and Head Coach Derek Lalonde as they shared their thoughts on the season. A players-only roundtable with Dylan Larkin, Moritz Seider, and Alex DeBrincat followed. The always-fun meeting concluded with a raffle for Red Wings memorabilia.

The DEC hosted West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin on Monday, February 26, at the Masonic in Detroit. In an exclusive meeting for DEC members and accompanied guests, FOX 2 Detroit's Roop Raj moderated the fireside chat as Senator Manchin continued his listening tour for Americans Together and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer on Wednesday, February 14, at the Huntington Place in Detroit. In an exclusive meeting for DEC members and accompanied guests, the Governor shared remarks regarding her administration's FY '25 budget priorities. She was later joined on stage by U.S. Department of the Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen for a fireside chat.

The DEC hosted Jerry Norcia on Tuesday, February 6, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a conversation moderated by DEC Board Chair Sandy Pierce, Jerry discussed "Advancing the Energy Backbone of Michigan's Economy – Utilizing all the Tools in the Toolbox" and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted the 2024 Michigan Economic Outlook Meeting on Tuesday, January 16, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a conversation moderated by Daniel Howes, Hilary Doe, Chief Growth Officer of the State of Michigan, Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and Gabriel Ehrlich, Director of Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics at the University of Michigan, shared their insights and more. Before the discussion, the 12th annual Michigan Economic Outlook Survey results were unveiled. You can view the survey results here: www.outlooksurvey.com.

The DEC hosted The Honorable Pat McCrory, Former North Carolina Governor (R) and No Labels National Co-Chair, and The Honorable Jay Nixon, Former Missouri Governor (D) and No Labels Ballot Integrity Project Director, on Wednesday, December 13, at The MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a fireside chat with The Detroit News' Kaitlyn Buss, the former governors discussed No Labels' plans and why they feel No Labels presents common sense solutions to solve America's biggest problems and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted Santa J. Ono, President of the University of Michigan, on Wednesday, November 29, at The Masonic. In a fireside chat with WDIV-TV Local 4's Devin Scillian, President Ono discussed achievements, challenges, and opportunities he sees for partnership and growth with the region and community and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted Austan D. Goolsbee, President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, on Tuesday, November 14, at The Masonic. In a fireside chat with Detroit Regional Chamber's Sandy K. Baruah, Austan discussed the economy, employment, and inflation and answered questions from the audience.

The DEC hosted Sara Armbruster, President & CEO of Steelcase Inc., and Bill Emerson, President & COO of Rocket Companies, on Thursday, November 2, at the Westin Book Cadillac. In a fireside chat with the DEC's Steve Grigorian, Sara and Bill discussed "Navigating the Return to Office" and answered questions from the audience. This Future of Work Series meeting was presented in partnership with Detroit Public TV.

Closing Keynote Powered by MotorCity Casino Hotel: A Conversation with Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist Moderator: Justin Remington Speaker: Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist State of Michigan Visit http://www.econclub.org/meeting/2023-young-leader-conference/ to learn more! #decylc

BREAKOUT SESSION: Leading at Any Level Rising and elevating leaders of the now and the future have an opportunity to step into their potential by first seeing themselves as leaders as they navigate their careers, their business relationships and their growth. This session is designed to educate and empower leaders of their leadership potential, arming them with tools to combat challenges and exciting them to look forward to, and embrace their career futures, sometimes in unexpected ways. Key Takeaways: Identifying your default leadership style Reframing as a leadership tool Dealing with discomfort, fear, and imposter syndrome on your leadership journey Curating your Leadership Legacy Speaker: Jacqueline M. Baker Founder, Principal Consultant & Author Scarlet Communications Visit http://www.econclub.org/meeting/2023-young-leader-conference/ to learn more! #decylc

BREAKOUT SESSION: Bridging Corporate and Community: How to Leverage Your Skills, Talents, and Passions as Professionals to Create Positive Change Corporations have large platforms to use when it comes to change. As young leaders, we need to use our voices to speak up on issues and topics that are important to us within our organizations. Millennials and Gen Zs comprise a majority of the workforce and employers are eager to hear from us. When we come together to speak up, we can collectively influence corporations to make changes that benefit society. Right now our society is at a tipping point - Affirmative Action, Roe vs. Wade, Climate Change, amongst other issues – as young leaders how can we leverage our skills, talents, and passions to encourage change and set us up for success in the future and other generations to follow. Key Takeaways: How to leverage skills, talents and passions to encourage change How to set up success for generations to follow Moderator: Orlando Bailey Director of Engagement BridgeDetroit Speakers: Ghida Dagher President & CEO New American Leaders Vance Jackson Executive Director Renaissance of Hope Kamilia Landrum Executive Director Detroit Branch NAACP Visit http://www.econclub.org/meeting/2023-young-leader-conference/ to learn more! #decylc

BREAKOUT SESSION: The Future is Yours... Go Get It! Much of our professional success is determined by our willingness to put in the effort to achieve it. But what about those times when it seems like success is merely a product of dumb luck? Or when you have done everything it takes to be successful, but still come up short? The truth is, success typically falls somewhere between the two, and is oftentimes, a very personalized formula. It's time to crack the code and set ourselves up to take on the next steps of our professional lives! Key Takeaways: Understand and reflect on your personal journey to career success Redefine what effort means in the context of success Learn to leverage your strengths and sharpen your weaknesses Mentally roadmap your future and go get it! Speaker: Jason Sweet Sr. Talent Acquisition Specialist Harman International Visit http://www.econclub.org/meeting/2023-young-leader-conference/ to learn more! #decylc

BREAKOUT SESSION: Secure Your Future and Michigan's by Succeeding in Detroit Have you ever thought to yourself or been asked by someone else, “Why Detroit?” In this engaging presentation, we will answer that question with gusto. From unique small businesses, art galleries, specialty restaurants, and shops to world-renowned architecture and cultural institutions, historic neighborhoods, and unparalleled public spaces, Detroit is full of unique assets that make it an amazing place to call home, and it's only getting better. It's ground zero for innovative industries that will transform the future, one of the leading cities for entrepreneurship, and job opportunities abound no matter what your skillset or interest. This presentation will help young leaders see the benefit to themselves, and to Michigan, of being an integral part of taking Michigan into the future. Key Takeaways: What Detroit can offer young leaders and the value proposition for why they should stay in the area Why people are moving from New York, San Francisco and other parts of the country to Detroit Metro Detroit is full of opportunity regardless of field How young leaders can be a part of making Detroit and Michigan even better than it is now and the many great examples of successful people who did just that Speaker: Jeanette Pierce Founder & President City Institute Visit http://www.econclub.org/meeting/2023-young-leader-conference/ to learn more! #decylc

BREAKOUT SESSION: From Idea to Execution Goal setting is a fundamental process that empowers individuals to achieve their aspirations with purpose and efficiency. It involves outlining objectives and devising a strategic path to realize them. A systematic approach to goal setting enhances focus, motivation, and overall success. This abstract explores the 9 step-by-step methodology for effective goal achievement. In conclusion, effective goal setting is a structured process that maximizes the likelihood of achieving one's aspirations. By following these steps-clear definitions, sub-goal creation, prioritization, timeline establishment, action planning, adaptability, execution, monitoring, celebration, and reflection- individuals can approach their goals systematically and methodically. This approach enhances productivity, keeps motivation high, and transforms dreams into tangible accomplishments. Key Takeaways: A clear understanding of how to create goals How to establish an effective approach to goals How to achieve goals Speaker: Keyon Clinton CEO One Percent Better LLC Visit http://www.econclub.org/meeting/2023-young-leader-conference/ to learn more! #decylc

BREAKOUT SESSION: Being Unapologetically Authentic Conforming, code-switching, and cultural norms often prevent us from showing up as our best and most authentic selves at work. Being authentic, however, means that we have to also accept others' authenticity which can be both challenging and beneficial. Using current examples, we'll consider the positives and negatives of being true to ourselves and others. Key Takeaways: Evaluation of experiences that limit and promote our authenticity Best practices that lead to more inclusive organizations Speaker: Michele Lewis Watts, Ph.D. She Equity Officer Woods & Watts Effect Visit http://www.econclub.org/meeting/2023-young-leader-conference/ to learn more! #decylc

OPENING KEYNOTE: Scripting Your Future Through the Language of Influence Everyone has a message. It might be a simple message for the moment, or a message that endures and influences for a lifetime. In fact, according to the Harvard Business Review, "The number one criteria for advancement and promotion of professionals is an ability to communicate effectively." Your road to professional growth and success begins with the stones of effective communication. You may need to communicate the vision for your company. Or lead a difficult conversation. Or present your perspective to a potential client. Or develop a new relationship with a peer. Or maybe your aspiration is as simple as sharing a heartfelt story with a close-knit group. In any case, your success is based on your ability to master the art of communication. But let's flip the script! It's not about more chatter, it's about influencing change, and stirring the pot of progress. Communicating well is not just about sending a message. It's about maximizing the influence and impact of your narrative. It's about understanding that there are always multiple perspectives in any situation. Key Takeaways: Understand the 5 keys to connecting through communication Master your approach to effective crucial conversations Speaker: Steve Lowisz Founder & CEO Qualigence International Visit http://www.econclub.org/meeting/2023-young-leader-conference/ to learn more! #decylc

The DEC hosted Jamie Dimon, Chairman & CEO of JPMorgan Chase & Co., on Wednesday, September 20, at MotorCity Casino Hotel. This exclusive meeting for DEC members and accompanying guests was the largest crowd since the pandemic. In a fireside chat with Dennis Archer, Jr., Chairman & CEO of Sixteen42 Ventures, Jamie discussed JPMorgan Chase & Co.'s decade-long commitment to Detroit, as well as global financial and geopolitical issues, and answered questions from the audience.

Join us via Zoom as we focus on everyone's favorite topic…your investments. We will ask John Lynch for three things to get excited about and three things to give you pause. FEATURED GUEST SPEAKER John Lynch Chief Investment Officer Comerica Wealth Management

The DEC hosted the 2023 Detroit Tigers at MotorCity Casino Hotel on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. Tigers broadcasters Matt Shepard and Craig Monroe facilitated two lively roundtable discussions. Members heard from President of Baseball Operations Scott Harris and Manager A.J. Hinch as they shared their thoughts on the season. A players-only roundtable with Spencer Torkelson, Jake Rogers, and Kerry Carpenter followed. The always-fun meeting concluded with audience questions and a raffle for Tiger memorabilia.

The DEC hosted Robert Riney, President & CEO of Henry Ford Health, Ray Scott, President & CEO of Lear Corporation, and Dr. Tarek Sobh, President & CEO of Lawrence Technological University, on Thursday, May 11, at Ford Field. In a fireside chat with the DEC's Steve Grigorian, the panel discussed "Technology Impacts on Industry and How to Prepare Future Workers Now" and answered questions from the audience. This meeting also included the culmination of the DEC Career Readiness Academy (CRA) program. High school students utilized the skills they learned during the 6-month career exploration program by networking with attendees.  This Future of Work Series meeting was presented in partnership with Detroit Public TV.

Join us via Zoom as we focus on everyone's favorite topic…your investments. We will ask Jill Garvey for three things to get excited about and three things to give you pause. FEATURED GUEST SPEAKER Jill Garvey, CPA, CFP® SVP & Senior Wealth Strategist Huntington Private Bank

The DEC hosted Matt Rossetti, Chief Architect of Serious Fun at ROSSETTI, and Amy Chesterton, Partner - Urban Planning at ROSSETTIon Tuesday, April 11, at Marygrove Conservancy. In an interactive town hall hosted by Nolan Finley and Stephen Henderson, the panel discussed "Thoughtful Urban Design for Downtown Growth."   This town hall was presented in partnership with Detroit Public TV as part of the Future of Work Series.

The DEC hosted Stuart Hoffman, SVP & Senior Economic Advisor at PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., on Thursday, April 13, at Westin Book Cadillac. Stuart discussed “A Challenging Year Ahead: The U.S. Economy Experiences a Mild Recession But Slower Inflation” and answered questions from the audience.

Join us via Zoom as we focus on everyone's favorite topic…your investments. We will ask Jacob Taylor for three things to get excited about and three things to give you pause. FEATURED GUEST SPEAKER Jacob Taylor SVP & Managing Director PNC Private Bank S.E. Michigan

The DEC hosted Linda Foutty, Executive Board Chair of Deloitte US, and Linda Hubbard, President & COO of Carhartt, Inc., on Tuesday, March 28, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a fireside chat with DEC Board Chair and Huntington Bank's Sandy Pierce, the panel discussed “What Does It Take for Women to Thrive in Leadership Roles Today?” and answered questions from the audience. Janet's co-authored book, Arrive and Thrive, 7 Impactful Practices for Women Navigating Leadership, provided a framework for the discussion.

The DEC hosted 313 Presents President Howard Handler on Tuesday, March 14, at the Fox Theatre. In a fireside chat with Music Journalist Gary Graff, Howard discussed "The Enduring Power of Live Entertainment" and answered questions from the audience. The event concluded with a behind-the-scenes tour to learn the many secrets of the Fox Theatre.

The DEC hosted the 2022-2023 Detroit Red Wings at the MotorCity Casino Hotel on Friday, March 10. Ken Daniels and Mickey Redmond served as the Masters of Ceremonies for the 17th annual meeting. In a lively roundtable discussion, members heard from Assistant General Manager Shawn Horcoff, and Head Coach Derek Lalonde as they shared their thoughts on the season. A players-only roundtable with Dylan Larkin, Moritz Seider, and Lucas Raymond followed. The always-fun meeting concluded with audience questions and a raffle for Red Wings memorabilia. Thank you to our Sponsors & Partners for supporting the DEC: http://www.econclub.org/sponsors-partners/

Join us via Zoom as we focus on everyone's favorite topic…your investments. We will ask Jason Tinsley for three things to get excited about and three things to give you pause. FEATURED GUEST SPEAKER Jason Tinsley Michigan Market Manager J.P. Morgan Private Bank

The DEC hosted Jeff Donofrio, President & CEO of Business Leaders for Michigan, and Rachel Stewart, President of Gardner-White, on Tuesday, January 31, at MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a fireside chat with Dustin Walsh, Jeff and Rachel discussed Michigan's economic growth and reversing unwanted trends, and answered questions from the audience. Thank you to our Sponsors & Partners for supporting the DEC: http://www.econclub.org/sponsors-partners/ Become a member today: https://www.econclub.org/membership/

The DEC hosted the 2023 Michigan Economic Outlook Meeting on Thursday, January 12. In a conversation moderated by Daniel Howes, Elaine Buckberg, Chief Economist of General Motors, and Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, shared their insights and more. Before the discussion, the results of the 11th annual Michigan Economic Outlook Survey were unveiled. You can view the survey results here: www.outlooksurvey.com. Thank you to our Sponsors & Partners for supporting the DEC: http://www.econclub.org/sponsors-partners/

The DEC hosted Bruce Van Saun, Chairman & CEO of Citizens Financial Group, Inc., on Monday, December 12, at The Townsend Hotel in Birmingham. In a fireside chat with DEC's Steve Grigorian, Bruce discussed "Tapping the Power of Innovation and Transformation in a Dynamic Environment" and answered questions from the audience. Thank you to our Sponsors & Partners for supporting the DEC: http://www.econclub.org/sponsors-partners/

The DEC hosted Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., President & CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), on Wednesday, December 7, at MotorCity Casino Hotel. In a fireside chat with DEC's Steve Grigorian, Johnny discussed “THE GREAT RESET: The Future of Work?” and answered questions from the audience. This meeting was presented in partnership with Detroit Public TV as part of the Future of Work Series. Thank you to our Sponsors & Partners for supporting the DEC: http://www.econclub.org/sponsors-partners/