Me You Us

Many surveys show that fear of public speaking is the #1 phobia.  In fact, many people are more afraid of public speaking than they are of death.  My guest, Abbie Egherman, talks to us about Toastmasters and how they have helped her and  others overcome their fear of public speaking. 

What does it mean to be truly inclusive?  What are "hidden" disabilities?  Find out how Consumers Energy and the capABLE employee resource group are working to include people of all abilities.  Tonya Berry is the VP of Gas Operations and the Executive Sponsor of capABLE. Listen in as she talks about recognizing the abilities in all of us.

Joshua DeFour is a former Marine and military Veteran film maker.  As a student of film at the University of Texas he made the short film, The 11th Order, that follows that last minutes of the lives of two young Marines.  He was inspired by the speech "Six Seconds to Live" that was given by General John Kelly to Gold Star Families shortly after the loss of his own son in combat.

When my children turned 16 and earned their driver's license I had a long talk with them about how to drive, what not to do and how to behave behind the wheel.  I thought that this was the same talk that all parents had with their children during this exciting time in their young lives.  I found out that this is not necessarily true.  I also learned that people of color have a much different talk.  Join me as I explore this topic with my friend Noah Coleman.

Consumers Energy recently held a town hall meeting to discuss the pillar of Professional Well-Being.  This is often a forgotten dimension of our overall well-being.  Listen in as I discuss this pillar with Brandy Merritt and other town hall participants.

What is an Inclusion Champion and what do they do?  Marty Smith talks with us about her role her at Consumers Energy and why she chose to be an Inclusion Champion.

What is an Inclusion Champion and what do they do?  Dieterik Rozelle talks with us about his role here at Consumers Energy and why he chose to be an Inclusion Champion.

The first step in breaking down the stigma of seeking mental health care is knowing that it is ok to not be ok.  My guest, Rebecca Calkins, discusses the importance of knowing ourselves and others so that we can recognizes changes that may indicate a need for care.  She is a Mental Health First Aid Instructor and the Community Project Coordinator int eh Prevention and Community Health Department in Jackson, MI.

When sustainability is talked about, many times we immediately think about the environment and climate change.  It is much more than that.  Jessica Spagnoulo and Kristen Trovillion have a passion for sustainability.  Listen in as we discuss Environment, Social and Governance, the pillars of sustainability.

An alcoholic can be anyone.  They are not just the person with a brown paper bag under the bridge.  An alcoholic can be a professional, a friend or a family member.  Listen as Sharon shares her story of trusting a higher power and staying sober one day at a time.

What will your work epitaph say about you?  Listen as Katrina talks about her career at Consumers Energy and the importance of brining your whole self to work.

Julie Hegedus was recently recognized by the Energetic Women's Conference as an outstanding leader with their Maverick award.  She has spent her entire career as a first or only female in many traditionally male roles.  Listen as talks about not allowing fear to dictate her actions.

What does it take to be the Diversity Diva and live your life unapologetically?  Consumers Energy Chief Diversity Officer and VP Angela Thompkins tells us.

Mental Health First Aid is training that can teach the average person how to help others in crisis.  Steph Kastely busts the myths and breaks down some do's and don'ts when it comes to mental health.

This is the 100th episode of the Me You Us podcast!!  Listen in as your host, Bill Krieger talks with Kahryn Riley and Priya Machi about the evolution of the podcast.  They also discuss your questions and comments from our monthly survey.  If you are interested in a behind the scenes look at our podcast you won't want to miss this episode.

From the beginning of school in 1968 to her work here at Consumers Energy Bee Hale has beaten the odds and advocated for equal treatment.  Listen as she shares her story of overcoming her disabilities to live her life.

Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 25 years ago Teresa Stassines has learned that having a disability doesn't mean that you cannot live your life and be a leader.

Mark Twain said, "Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life."  Alyssa Welch and Matthew Papp share their stories of finding their passion at work and how lifelong learning has helped shore up their Professional Well-Being pillars.  Listen as they share their stories about their learning journey.

The son of a Firefighter and Social Worker, Adam Hollier grew up understanding what it means to be a servant leader.  As a Senator from Detroit's second district and an Army Reserve Officer he walks the walk.  Listen as Senator Hollier talks about his childhood, being a leader and what made him pursue a lifetime of public service. 

Congressman Jack Bergman represents Michigan's First District covering the Upper Peninsula and most of Northern Lower Michigan.  He is also a retired Marine Corps General with 40 years of service to his country.  Listen as we discuss the value of service and serving the greater good.

Emotional Well-Being and suicide prevention are serious topics.  Anthony Grupido has learned that sometimes the best way to have a serious discussion is through light hearted conversation.  Listen as he shares his story and how The Magic of Hope has helped many people understand that it is OK to not be OK. 

Representative Bob Bezotte represents Michigan's 47th District.  He is a Vietnam Veteran and retired Livingston County Sheriff.  He has spent his life in service to our country and especially our Veterans.

The VFW National Home was founded in 1925 to give shelter and aid to the widows and orphans of WWI.  Today the Home continues to honor this legacy by helping active-duty, reservist, and veteran families get back on their feet .  Listen as Communications Specialist Meghan Mitchell talks about its rich history and bright future.

Financial Well-Being is an important pillar of overall Well-Being.  Consumers Energy offers many programs to assist customers in reducing their energy use and saving money.  Listen in as Carrie Widenmier and Riki Shook share some of the programs that are available.

Karl Bloss is the Electric Vehicle Program Coordinator for Consumers Energy.  Listen in as we talk about the advantages and challenges that come with owning and driving an electric vehicle.

Financial Well-Being is an important pillar of our overall well-being.  Listen in as Mariah Hart and Jennifer Binkley-Power discuss the benefits of the Home Energy Analysis offered by Consumers Energy.  This free service can help you develop strategies for saving energy and money.

The Financial Pillar of Personal Well-Being is an important part of our overall well-Being.  Listen in as we talk about the Smart Meter program and the positive impacts that it can have for you and your wallet.

When we are born we are given an expiration date as well.  None of us know that date, so we should live our lives to the fullest.  Listen as Noah Coleman shares his end of the year insights.

Veterans Day can mean different things to different people.  Cory Rosencrance is an Electric Lines Apprentice at Consumers Energy.  He is also a Veteran.  Listen as he talks about the value of military service in the civilian world.

MG Paul Rogers is The Adjutant General of the Michigan National Guard and is responsible for both the Air and Army Guard across the state.  Listen in as he discusses self-care and care for others and shares his insights on leadership.

Zaneta Adams is the Director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA).  She is also a mother, disabled Veteran and suicide survivor.  Listen in as she talks about the many resources that are available and how it is truly ok to not be ok.

When we think of organizational security and the organizations that it encompasses our perception may not reflect the reality.  Listen in as Hannah Hargis, and investigator with Consumers Energy, talks about her career path and the interesting work that she does.

Amy Pelletier is the Work Force Lead in the security organization at Consumers Energy.  Listen in as she discusses her career path and the many facets of the work that she does.

There are many influences in our lives, but our fathers can be one of the most impactful.  Listen in as LeeRoy Wells, SVP of Operations at Consumers Energy, talks about his life and the influence that his father had on him.

What is Imposter Syndrome?  Have you ever been the "only" in the room?  Has anyone ever told you that you would be a great "diversity hire"?  Listen as I discuss these very questions with two of my co-workers, Davida Struck and Alyse Gray.  Both are highly educated Black women in Engineering at Consumers Energy.

Sometimes it can be difficult to understand where others are coming from if we haven't walked a mile in their shoes.  Listen as Consumers Energy's Ryan Bradley talks about his continuing journey through Diversity Equity and Inclusion.

No one is prepared for the loss of a child.  Listen as Richard Kachelski, Supply Chain Analyst at Consumers Energy, shares the story of the loss of his son Andrew at 18 months old.

There are five pillars of personal well-being that make up the holistic approach to taking care of ourselves and others.  Listen in as Jenn Malinowski, Well-Being Champion at Consumers Energy, talks about passion for well-being and where it came from.

Shelly Ortega is an investigator for Consumers Energy she is also Co-Chair of the Women's Advisory Panel.  Melissa Sherman is a Lean Coach and Co-Chair of the Women's Engineering Network.  Listen as they share their perspective on Women's History month, the power of mentorship and much more.

Randy Sundell is a Well-Being Champion at Consumers Energy.  Find out what he does and how he got here.  Listen in as we discuss being your best you and the resources that are available.

Consumers Energy maintains they system that delivers natural gas to much of Michigan.  It isn't just a commodity.  It is the heat that warms our homes and the energy that cooks our meals.  Today we celebrate Natural Gas Utility Workers with Pete Matrunola and Randy Koerber.

Does the power of positive thinking really work?  Is it possible to manifest our success?  What is a Vision Board?  I talk with Consumers Energy's very own Mimi Brown about these very concepts.  This may change your life.

Herb Elfring retired from Consumers Energy in 1985 after a 35 year career in engineering.  He is also a Pearl Harbor Survivor, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather and much, much more.  Listen as he tells the story of his 100 years of living life to the fullest.  This is a three part series.

Herb Elfring retired from Consumers Energy in 1985 after a 35 year career in engineering.  He is also a Pearl Harbor Survivor, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather and much, much more.  Listen as he tells the story of his 100 years of living life to the fullest.  This is a three part series.

Herb Elfring retired from Consumers Energy in 1985 after a 35 year career in engineering.  He is also a Pearl Harbor Survivor, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather and much, much more.  Listen as he tells the story of his 100 years of living life to the fullest.  This is a three part series.

This is part 1 of my conversation with Stan Mazur, who served his country as a Sea Bee in the Navy.  He has raised a family, had a career and continues to serve.  Listen in as he talks about what it took to bring the USS Arizona Memorial to the city of Jackson Michigan.

Happy Earth Day everyone!  Want to know what is new in electric Vehicles?  Have you heard about Consumers Energy's Clean Energy Plan?  Here to talk about both are our resident experts Jessica Woycehoski and Karl Bloss.

This is part 2 of my conversation with Stan Mazur, who served his country as a Sea Bee in the Navy.  He has raised a family, had a career and continues to serve.  Listen in as he talks about what it took to bring the USS Arizona Memorial to the city of Jackson Michigan.

Justice Richard Bernstein became the first blind justice, elected by voters statewide, to the Michigan Supreme Court where he has served for nearly 8 years.  He is also an advocate for persons with disabilities and Veterans.  In addition he is an Iron Man and marathon runner.  Listen in as we talk about his life and the positive impacts his service has had on so many.

Consumers Energy has a rich history of caring for our coworkers and a culture that values safety.  Listen as I talk with Justin Hobart about what the CE Memorial day means to him.

On Tuesday, May 19, 2020the Edenville and Sanford dams failed, causing flooding and an unprecedented loss of property.  Mike Clever is  a resident of Sanford and line worker for Consumers Energy.  He is also  one of the first people to respond to the tragedy.  Listen as he tells his story of devastation and home. 

There are two dates that are certain, the day we are born - the day that we die.  We know the first date, but the second is a mystery.  It is up to us to live our best lives in the dash between those two dates.  Listen in as these two history making women share their journey so far.

To many of us Memorial Day means time spent with family and cooking out.  To a Veteran it has a whole different meaning.  Jon DeBoe is a Gas Mechanic at Consumers Energy and a combat Veteran.  Listen in as he shares his perspective on this sacred day.

Greg Lyles is a Gas Mechanic at Consumers Energy.  His son, Creg, has been missing for nearly two years.  Greg's message for all of us is simple: Be who you are.  

Ben Annen is a Contact Center Teamleader for Consumers Energy.  He came out as gay to his family and friends at the age of 38.  Listen as he talks about his journey to being his authentic self.

Michael Belton is a Category Manager for generation at Consumers Energy.  He is also a gay, black, and cisgender man.  Listen as he talks about intersectionality and the impact of double bias toward him.

Confused about alphabet soup that is your retirement plan?  Want to know what it all means?  Kendra Grob, Manager of Retirement Plans, at Consumers Energy breaks it down for us.

Domestic Partner Benefits are an amazing step forward for all of our co-workers.  Listen as Lora and Tric discuss the teamwork and hard work involved in making this happen at Consumers Energy and how it will positively impact the workforce.

Consumers Energy's Jenny Rickard and Kym Parker are passionate about fighting cancer and supporting the Relay for Life.  Listen to their stories and why they will support this effort until no one has to hear "you have cancer" ever again.

In July of 2021 Jorden Wakeley and Matt Meersman won the Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon.  Not only did they win, they crushed the previous record that had stood since 1994.  Listen as they talk about teamwork, friendship, and their plan for this year's race.  

Think robotics is for engineering and math students?  Think again!  Consumers Energy has support First Robotics for a number of years.  Listen as Megan Hayward and Kevin Furlong talk about the excitement and teamwork that surrounds these competitions.

Paul Ohep is a production supervisor at the Campbell Plant for Consumers Energy.  Listen to his journey from Venezuela to Michigan.

Sometimes we can be so busy taking care of others that we forget to take care of ourselves.  Listen as Consumers Energy's Andrea Hedlund discuss her journey to being her best self.

Peter Meijer has served his country as a member of the US Army Reserves and then as part of Team Rubicon.  He has continued his service as a Congressman for Michigan's Third District.

Is it nag'em or naugam??  Nope, its NGAM (National Guard Association of Michigan) and Jeff Frisby is the Executive Director.  Listen as he discusses how this organization helps Veterans and their plans for the future.

In 1992 the war in Bosnia was just beginning.  Azra Vuk was 15 years old and had no idea just how bad things could get.  As the soldiers forced them from their home her mother held her hand and promised everything would be alright.  This is part 1 of a 2 part series.

In 1992 the war in Bosnia was just beginning.  Azra Vuk was 15 years old and had no idea just how bad things could get.  As the soldiers forced them from their home her mother held her hand and promised everything would be alright.  This is part 2 of a 2 part series.

For many Veterans service does not stop when they leave the military.  Just ask Charlie Henning, he has led a life of service to others.  This is part 1 of a 2 part series.

For many Veterans service does not stop when they leave the military.  Just ask Charlie Henning, he has led a life of service to others.  This is part  2 of a 2 part series.

Welcome to Drive Electric Week with Karl, Carson and Justin.  These three will talk about all things Electric Vehicle (EV) and what Consumers Energy is doing to make owing and operating one easier.

Dwayne Gill is a retired police officer and comedian.  Listen as talks about his life and the true value of diversity.

Lee Hausler is a retiree from Consumers Energy.  He is also a Military Veteran, husband and father.  He turned 100 April 2, 2022.  Listen as he talks about his extraordinary life and shares his wisdom.  This is part 1 of a 2 part series.

Lee Hausler is a retiree from Consumers Energy.  He is also a Military Veteran, husband and father.  He turned 100 April 2, 2022.  Listen as he talks about his extraordinary life and shares his wisdom.  This is part 2 of a 2 part series.

Stepping over clean laundry, changing deadlines, waiting until the last minute.  These can be aggravating to the outside observer.  To people with ADHD it can be everyday life.  Listen as Consumers Energy's Karli McNeill talks about her journey navigating the way her brain works. 

ADHD isn't necessarily something that a person develops.  It is a part of who they are throughout their lives.  Listen as Consumers Energy's Sarah Paterson talks about ADHD and how it has made her creative and successful.

It isn't always what we say, sometimes it's how we say it.  This can be especially challenging for someone with Asperger's Syndrome and for those around them.  Listen as Consumers Energy's Chris Pombier shares his unique journey.

This month we celebrate the service of our female Veterans with stories from our co-workers who also served in the military.  Shelly Ortega learned to be fearless while serving in the United States Air Force.  Listen as she talks about her journey.  #sheisaveteran

Christina DuVall is the Executive Director of Ethics, Compliance and Information Governance at Consumers Energy.  Helping others is a passion for her and her journey is definitely unique. 

This month we celebrate the service of our female Veterans with stories from our co-workers who also served in the military.  Sarah Nielsen learned a lot about leadership and diversity during her service in the Army.  She brings that experience with her to Consumers Energy.  Listen as she tells her story.  #sheisaveteran

This month we celebrate the service of our female Veterans with stories from our co-workers who also served in the military.  Deuce knew that she wanted to be a United States Marine from an early age.  Listen as she shares her journey and the story behind her nickname.  #sheisaveteran

This month we celebrate the service of our female Veterans with stories from our co-workers who also served in the military.  Anne Prenzler learned valuable lessons while she served in the United States Army.  Respect is one of the lessons that she has carried with her throughout her life.  #sheisaveteran

Consumers Energy's Colin Dunham grew up on a farm.  The lessons he learned there have shaped the way he overcomes adversity and has lived his life.  Listen as he shares his journey.

The holidays are not one size fits all.  Many people celebrate different holidays throughout the year.  Listen in as Consumers Energy's Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer discusses what the holidays mean to her.  We also discuss how to respect others without disrespecting our values. This is our final episode of the season.  Please go back and listen to episodes you may have missed or some of your favorites.  We will be back on January 11, 2023.

Carolyn knows that non-profit organizations and volunteers are an important part of the fabric of our society.  Listen as she talks about her work in Corporate Giving and shares her journey.

Sometimes our attachment to stuff can be detrimental to our relationships and even our health.  Listen in at Sharon McRill from the Betty Brigade breaks down simple strategies for decluttering our lives.

Consumers Energy has always been known as a great place to work.  In fact there are generations of families that have worked here.  Listen as John Gribble discusses his work at the company and the legacy of his father.

The Frank Johnson Utility Diversity Scholarship will help to build the next generation of leaders.  Meet the namesake of this exciting scholarship and hear about his journey from Meter Reader to President and CEO of CMS International Gas and Electric and well as SVP of Operations at Consumers Energy.

Being your own biggest fan and surrounding yourself with a dream team are a few ways that Alanna Tremble has found success.  Listen as she talks about her journey as a young Detroiter to Work Week Field Leader at Consumers Energy.

Consumers Energy's Victoria Moore has an amazing story to tell.  From humble beginnings to Manager at Consumers Energy.  Listen as she talks about her journey.

Treating life as an adventure has brought perspective to Consumers Energy's Vangie Harvey.  Listen as she talks about the importance of taking control of your career and how mentorship helps.

Welcome to the adventures of the Galacto Girls and the Dairy Queen.  Wondering what this is all about?  Listen in as Consumers Energy's Jodie Solari explains the rare disease that her daughters have and how it has impacted her family.

Elissa Slotkin represents Michigan's 8th district.  She has also served her country in Iraq as a CIA officer and as an advisor to both President Bush and President Obama.  Representative Slotkin truly understands the power of team work and putting service first.

Consumers Energy's Mary Anne Marr has always supported her co-workers.  She recently discovered that it may be more important to advocate for them.  Listen to her story as describes her journey to understanding the difference.

There are more people enslaved in the world today than at any other time in our history.  Human trafficking is currently a $150 billion a year industry.  Listen in as A21's Mollie Thorsen discusses what we can do to combat this ever growing threat.

Tallulah West has a passion for all things environmental.  She does all she can do to preserve our planet for future generations.  Listen in as she discusses Environmental Justice and what it means to those that are impacted.

As we look at taking care of the planet it can seem that our efforts are just a drop in a very large bucket.  However, every effort matters.  Listen as Consumers Energy's Sarah Crouch discusses sustainability and why it matters.

Jennifer Rose is the Executive Director of Enterprise Project Management for gas projects at Consumers Energy.   Listen as she discusses everything from mentorship to what it means to be an Asian American.

Russ Bilderbeck has led an interesting life.  As a result, he thinks about what others are going through rather than judge them.  Listen in as he gives his perspective on ally-ship and what pride month means to him.

This is my final episode hosting Consumers Energy's Me You Us Podcast.  Listen in as I talk with Angela Thompkins about the podcast, life and my next chapter.