Podcasts about mackinac policy conference

Seven days. That's the average wait time Trinity Health Michigan says it takes to get a new patient in with a primary care doctor and it's a clue to how affordability and access can actually improve at the same time. From the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, I sit down with Shannon Striebich, president and CEO of Trinity Health Michigan, to talk about what a modern health system has to do differently if we want shorter waits, stronger prevention, and healthier communities across the state.We start with Trinity's “coast to coast” Michigan footprint and then get specific about what drives real patient access: expanding primary care, making scheduling easier with online tools, and keeping people connected to preventive care once they enter the system. Shannon makes a straightforward point that too often gets lost in policy talk: it's cheaper to be healthy than to develop a significant illness. That idea becomes the thread running through the whole conversation on healthcare affordability, prevention, and total cost of care.Then we widen the lens to community health, including Trinity's “food is medicine” work and hospital-based farms that provide tens of thousands of pounds of fresh produce to people facing food insecurity. Finally, we take on the hardest issue: healthcare payment reform. Shannon explains why today's incentives still favor hospital-based care over community-based prevention, and why double digit healthcare inflation in pharmaceuticals and supplies makes the current patchwork funding approach feel unsustainable. If you care about Michigan healthcare policy, value-based care, and practical steps that can move outcomes fast, this conversation is for you.Subscribe, share this with someone who cares about health policy, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

Health care is not just a line item for employers, it's a defining force in whether a region can grow, attract talent, and stay competitive. From the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Rick Baker of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce to connect the dots between community investment and the health care systems that keep West Michigan working.We talk about what the Chamber actually does across 3,100 member businesses, then zoom in on what makes Grand Rapids “sticky” for graduates and early-career workers. Rick shares how quality-of-life investments and higher education partnerships help employers recruit and retain, and why hospitals and health systems are true community assets. We also explore the region's long-term goal of becoming a destination city for health care, including the growth of the Medical Mile and the role of major institutions like Corewell Health, Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine, and the Van Andel Research Institute.Then we get candid about the toughest issue: rising health care costs and the real impact on employer benefits and workforce decisions. We close with a hopeful shift, discussing how COVID-era awareness accelerated more open conversations about mental health and why “above the neck” care must be aligned with physical health to support whole-person outcomes.Subscribe, share this conversation with someone who cares about Michigan health care, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

A lot of health care headlines sound distant until you realize how quickly a policy tweak can turn into a long drive, a missed refill, or an ER visit that could have been prevented. From the Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Monique Stanton, President and CEO of the Michigan League for Public Policy, to talk about why Medicaid is the number one health care issue for so many Michiganders and why people feel genuinely scared about what comes next.We get specific about what's changing and what isn't. Monique explains that Medicaid income eligibility in Michigan stays roughly at 138% of the federal poverty level, yet major barriers can still knock people off coverage, including work requirements, twice a year eligibility checks, and the paperwork that creates “churn” for families already stretched thin. We also dig into the potential impact of HR1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” and why advocates expect as many as 200,000 to 250,000 people in Michigan could lose coverage if rollbacks move forward.Then we zoom out to what these changes mean on the ground, especially in rural Michigan. When coverage shrinks, clinics and hospital service lines can close, and that hurts everyone, not only Medicaid recipients. A labor and delivery unit shutting down or a behavioral health clinic moving farther away can turn routine care into an hours long trip, making it harder to stay healthy, work consistently, and care for family. We also talk about why hospitals and the Michigan Health and Hospital Association are key partners, and how Healthy Michigan Medicaid expansion helped cut uncompensated care by about 50% while shifting chronic care from emergency departments to primary care.If you care about Michigan Medicaid, rural health care access, and practical health policy that improves real lives, you'll want this conversation. Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review to help more people find the show.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

A brand-new building can look like progress, but what happens when the real problem is leadership and accountability behind locked doors? From the Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Michigan State Senator Michael Webber to talk candidly about state-run psychiatric hospitals, what he says he saw after taking a closer look, and why mental health care oversight can't stay in the shadows.We get specific about patient safety and operational failures, including the fallout from a false active shooter drill at the Hawthorne Center, the cascading trauma it created for patients and families, and what that kind of breakdown signals about governance. Webber walks us through the push for an Auditor General review, the significance of multiple severe audit findings, and why agreeing with findings is not the same as fixing them. We also dig into recipient rights, patient advocacy, and how adding lived experience to oversight boards could change decision-making in behavioral health care.Then we zoom out to the economics: hospitals as major employers and community anchors across Metro Detroit and Michigan, and the affordability crisis constituents bring to lawmakers every day. Webber explains how well-intended insurance coverage mandates can still raise premiums, why transparency matters across hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and health plans, and what happens when families face high deductibles and start avoiding care.If you care about Michigan health care policy, mental health reform, hospital accountability, and making coverage more affordable, this conversation will give you real stories and clear policy tensions to think about. Subscribe, share this episode with someone who cares about mental health care, and leave a review, what policy change would you want lawmakers to prioritize first?Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

A Look to the Horizon: Michigan's Economic Future OpportunitiesOn this episode we sit down with Sandy K. Baruah, President and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber, for an important conversation about Michigan's economic future—and what it will take to compete, grow, and prosper in the decades ahead. Sandy brings a candid perspective on Michigan's economic-development challenges and opportunities, from attracting investment and talent to strengthening education, infrastructure, manufacturing, and more. Plus, an overview of the Mackinac Policy Conference.

Health care gets blamed on villains, but the harder truth is that most people are reacting to the incentives right in front of them. From the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Matt Elliott, founder of Blue Lake Ideas and former president of Bank of America Michigan, to ask the question that quietly reshapes every other debate: who is the customer in health care?Matt brings a leadership lens he calls the “Power of And” thinking that refuses to collapse decisions into either-or. If Michigan wants a stronger future, we have to execute today and invest for tomorrow. We have to take care of people and still deliver results. That mindset matters when the state is facing what many leaders describe as a “house on fire” moment: slipping educational and economic outcomes, rising cost pressure, and real threats to access, especially for rural hospitals that often serve as the largest employer in town.We also get concrete about health care cost transparency and pricing signals. Patients rarely see the real price of care, there often isn't a usable price sheet, and even providers can be constrained by contracts and regulation. We talk about how benefit design and tax policy shape behavior, why clarity has to come before solutions, and what “winning” should mean if we want a health care system that works for patients and communities.Subscribe, share this conversation with someone who debates health care policy, and leave a review with your answer: who do you think the customer really is?Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

A kid walks into the ER because they thought a THC edible was candy, and the package did the lying. That's one of the most unsettling through-lines in my conversation with Luanne Thomas Ewald, chief operating officer at CS Mott Children's Hospital and Von Voigtlander Women's Hospital at University of Michigan Health, recorded at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference with the Michigan Health and Hospital Association. Luanne breaks down what's new at Michigan Medicine, including how CS Mott keeps pushing pediatric innovation and measurable outcomes, and why a design choice matters more than a press release: the women's hospital is built within the children's hospital, so high-risk deliveries can move a newborn to specialized care in a one-minute elevator ride instead of an ambulance transfer. We also talk leadership and collaboration across Michigan as she reflects on nearly 34 years in children's health and her role with MHA's Council on Children's Health, where hospitals step away from competition to focus on what's best for kids statewide. We dig into major child health policy issues that don't always make headlines: Medicaid funding threats that squeeze working families caring for children with chronic conditions, and how housing support like Ronald McDonald House Ann Arbor becomes critical when a children's hospital is consistently operating above capacity. If you care about pediatric patient safety, children's hospital capacity, Medicaid policy, or practical regulation that prevents harm, this conversation is for you. Subscribe for more healthcare leadership conversations, share this episode with someone who cares about kids' health in Michigan, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

One choice at the DMV can ripple into hundreds of surgeries, thousands of hospital hours, and a second chance at life for people you'll never meet. From the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Dorrie Dils from Gift of Life Michigan to unpack what actually happens when someone becomes an organ and tissue donor and why the system works only when families and clinicians can move with clarity and speed.We talk about Gift of Life Michigan's role as the state's organ procurement organization for deceased donation, how they coordinate with Michigan transplant centers, and how the program has scaled since 2016 from a few hundred donors a year to a pace of 600 plus donors, resulting in about 1,400 life-saving organ transplants annually. Along the way, we get into what “first of its kind” transplant procedures can mean for care in Michigan, plus the difference between living donation handled by transplant centers and deceased donation facilitated through Gift of Life.The heart of the conversation is human. Donor families face the worst day of their lives, yet many find real healing in knowing their loved one saved others. We also discuss why some organs carry extreme urgency, especially liver failure, where time is short without a transplant. Finally, Dorrie shares a practical policy push with big potential: expanding organ and tissue donation education in Michigan high schools so teens understand the decision before they're asked to register for the donor registry when getting a driver's license.If you care about organ donation, transplantation, Michigan health policy, or simply making sure your own wishes are known, listen now, then subscribe, share with a friend, and leave us a review so more people can find these conversations.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

Health care feels personal until you try to navigate it and realize how many parts are designed to be confusing. From the Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with former Michigan U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow for a fast, candid conversation about what's working, what's breaking, and what Michigan communities need next.We start with the pressure points she's most concerned about right now: mental health access, Medicaid cuts, and affordability. Stabenow explains why community behavioral health clinics with 24-hour access matter, not just for patients in crisis, but for families, hospitals, and communities trying to keep people out of emergency rooms and jails. We also talk about rural health care in northern Michigan, where hospitals are often the biggest employer and the backbone of local access, yet many are being forced to cut beds, reduce services, or stop delivering babies.Then we zoom out to the national policy fights. Stabenow reflects on the Affordable Care Act, what she would keep, and what she would change, including her push for a public Medicare option to drive real competition. She shares a stark reminder of why “essential health benefits” matter by revisiting the days when pregnancy could be treated like a pre-existing condition and prenatal coverage was far from guaranteed. We close on prescription drug prices, Medicare Part D, and the long-running impact of blocking Medicare from negotiating prices, plus how PBMs add yet another layer of complexity.If you care about Michigan health care, rural hospitals, mental health policy, the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, and prescription drug costs, this one's for you. Subscribe, share this conversation with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find The Common Bridge.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

Originally uploaded July 27th, reloaded August 17th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Charity Dean, CEO, Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA), Detroit, MI. Welcome, Charity, we weren't able to fit you in at Mackinac, can you tell us about MBBA? MBBA is celebrating five years of impact this year. Looking back, what accomplishments are you most proud of, and what do they say about the needs and opportunities facing Black entrepreneurs across Michigan? MBBA recently released its 2026 Policy Pillars. What are the top priorities you believe policymakers, business leaders, and economic development stakeholders should focus on to help small businesses thrive? Your report highlights nearly $14.7 million in capital access facilitated or supported, and almost 2,000 entrepreneurs served. What barriers do Black-owned businesses still face when it comes to accessing capital and growth opportunities? As Michigan looks toward the 2026 election cycle and continued economic development discussions, what role should entrepreneurship and small business growth play in shaping the state's future? MBBA has expanded its reach across communities, including Detroit, Flint, and Grand Rapids. What is your vision for the organization's next five years, and what impact do you hope to have on Michigan's business ecosystem? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: X.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Michigan Black Business Alliance Marks Five Years with Release of 2026 Policy Pillars Ahead of Mackinac Policy Conference, Calling for Greater Investment in Black-Owned Businesses and Small Business Growth Across Michigan As Michigan prepares for a pivotal election cycle, MBBA outlines key policy priorities impacting entrepreneurs, economic opportunity and the future of small business statewide DETROIT — May 2026 — As leaders from across the state gather for the Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss Michigan's economic future, the Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) is marking five years of impact with the release of its 2026 Policy Pillars and Five-Year Impact Report, outlining priorities to strengthen Black-owned businesses, expand economic opportunity and support long-term small business growth across Michigan. The release comes at a pivotal moment as Michigan enters a consequential 2026 election cycle that includes races for governor, U.S. Senate and the Michigan House. MBBA says the conversations shaping Michigan's future must include entrepreneurs and small businesses, particularly Black-owned businesses that continue to face barriers to capital, procurement opportunities and sustainable growth. Since launching in 2021, MBBA has supported nearly 2,000 entrepreneurs across Michigan, facilitated or supported more than $14.7 million in capital access, connected members to more than 1,500 business opportunities and delivered more than 7,000 hours of one-on-one technical assistance through programs designed to help businesses start, grow and scale. ### About the Michigan Black Business Alliance The Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the racial wealth gap by developing programs and advancing policies that support profitable, sustainable Black-owned businesses across Michigan.

Chris Holman welcomes back Lorri Rishar Jandron, MBA, Owner & CEO, EDGE Partnerships, Lansing, Marquette. Welcome back, Lorri. What were your highlights from the Mackinac Policy Conference? How has the summer gone for EDGE? Are you finding the talent you need? How has A.I. been impacting your business sector? You have the heart for service; tell us about AARP Michigan? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Originally uploaded June 25th, reloaded July 2nd. Chris Holman welcomes back Jim Holcomb, president and CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Lansing, MI Welcome back, Jim. Remind us about the Michigan Chamber? What have been the highlights so far in 2026? What is the top issue your advocacy team is dealing with at this time? What's next? How do you see the rest of 2026 shaping up? Our Michigan Future Business Index survey, underwritten by Cinnaire, is out in the field right now for the 41st time since 2006. You do surveys as well. What is your business community's pulse at this time? We ran into each other at the recent Mackinac Policy Conference. What were your takeaways? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Premiums are climbing, deductibles feel heavier every year, and most people still can't tell you why health care costs what it costs. From the Mackinac Policy Conference, we talk with Dominick Pallone, CEO of the Michigan Association of Health Plans, to get a clear look at what health plans actually do in Michigan and how state policy decisions ripple straight into employer coverage and family budgets.We start with the basics: MAHP represents nine health insurance companies covering nearly four million Michiganders, and their day-to-day work is advocacy with state lawmakers and regulators. From there, we dig into competition and choice in a market long shaped by a dominant carrier, and why employers and individuals should know they have other network options. The goal, Dom argues, is competing on access, quality outcomes, and real value rather than just headlines.Then we get to the affordability problem everyone feels. Dom explains why insurers often function as pass-through entities for underlying prices, and why pharmacy costs have become the biggest lever right now. We talk about double-digit premium trends, specialty drugs that are clinically remarkable but financially punishing, and the policy tightrope between supporting innovation and keeping coverage usable. We also explore practical fixes: value-based care arrangements, custom high-value networks, and health literacy tools like real-person call centers and apps that help members compare cost and quality for elective care.If you care about Michigan health care, health insurance affordability, pharmacy pricing, and what can actually move the needle, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share this with a friend or colleague, and leave a review with the biggest cost question you want answered next.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

A state budget can feel like spreadsheets and deadlines until you connect it to the moment someone needs insulin, prenatal care, or an ER visit they never planned for. From the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Michigan State Senator Sarah Anthony, chair of appropriations, to talk through what happens when federal decisions hit a state balance sheet and the bill comes due at home.We get specific about the pressure points: a projected $1.2 billion gap tied largely to Medicaid and SNAP food assistance, the real-world tradeoffs lawmakers face before they can fund anything new, and why Medicaid eligibility and preventive care matter for costs and outcomes. Senator Anthony makes the case that when people lose regular checkups and primary care, they don't disappear from the system, they show up later in crisis mode at local hospitals and emergency rooms.We also pull on a thread that too often gets treated as separate: food insecurity as health policy. From food deserts to supporting access to fresh options, she explains how nutrition shapes disease and why universal school meals became such a consequential fight. Then we dig into medical debt, including a bipartisan effort with hospitals to increase awareness of charity care and financial assistance and to keep medical debt off credit reports so a health emergency doesn't spiral into long-term financial damage.If you care about Michigan health care, Medicaid, hospital sustainability, and practical policy that works across party lines, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review with the biggest health care problem you want solved next.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

A 111-year-old Detroit institution is making one of the biggest bets in Michigan health care, and the details are more ambitious than a new building. From the Mackinac Policy Conference, we talk with Denise Brooks Williams, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Henry Ford Health System, about the “Future of Health” initiative and what it takes to modernize a flagship campus while keeping community needs at the center.We get into Destination Grand, a roughly 1.2 million square foot, $2.2 billion hospital project on West Grand Boulevard. Denise explains how all private rooms, a redesigned emergency department with a stronger behavioral health focus, updated operating rooms, and new technology infrastructure are meant to change the experience of care, not just the skyline. Just as important, we discuss how Henry Ford worked through Detroit's community benefit ordinance process to hear directly from residents about affordability, access, transportation, and the kinds of services that make a medical district usable in everyday life.The conversation also widens to statewide access. With Henry Ford Health's joint venture with Ascension and partnerships across Michigan, we talk about how specialty expertise can show up closer to home in communities like Jackson, Genesee County, and beyond, while still creating a clear path to advanced care when needed.Finally, we tackle the policy headwinds shaping the future: the 340B drug pricing program, Medicaid reimbursement, and why “common ground” matters if we want sustainable healthcare affordability and access for Michigan patients. If you care about Detroit hospital development, Michigan health policy, and what real community-centered healthcare delivery looks like, hit subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

Michigan's biggest challenges aren't neatly separated into “economy” over here and “health care” over there. From the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Representative Bill G. Schuette of Michigan's 95th District to connect the dots between population growth, good jobs, education outcomes, and what families experience when the health system is hard to afford.We talk about what he's hearing from constituents who want high-quality care without the constant worry of the bill that follows. That leads us into the real-world impact of regional health systems like MyMichigan Health: not only as a major employer and economic driver, but as a lifeline for rural communities where access can depend on whether a hospital is close enough to serve people quickly and consistently.Then we get practical.  Schuette points to medical debt as a serious problem that can put a home or car at risk after an unexpected emergency, and he shares why Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and a stronger focus on preventive care can help families manage costs before a crisis hits. We also touch on the difficulty of passing policy in divisive times and why assuming good intent is still a necessary starting point if Michigan wants solutions that last.If you care about Michigan health care policy, hospital access, rural health, and smarter affordability ideas, you'll get a clear, grounded perspective here. Subscribe, share this conversation with a friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find the series.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

Medicaid decisions made in a capitol building can land in a hospital waiting room fast and the ripple effects are bigger than most people realize. From the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association, to talk about what Michigan hospitals are facing right now and what actually helps patients keep access to care.We start with the MHA's “convener” role and why it still matters even as healthcare consolidation creates bigger systems and sharper competition. Brian explains how Michigan maintains something rare: 100% hospital and health system membership, which changes the stakes when we speak with lawmakers, regulators, and the media. When we can show a united front, we can focus on solutions like quality improvement, shared learning, and practical public policy that supports communities across rural and urban Michigan.Then we get into Medicaid funding, Medicaid eligibility, and the administrative hurdles that can quietly knock eligible people off coverage. Brian lays out the tension between a consistent national message in Washington and the reality of 50 different state Medicaid programs, including differences in Medicaid expansion and provider tax approaches. We also zoom out on healthcare affordability after COVID, why finger pointing will not reduce costs, and how technology and AI could improve care delivery if we build systems people can actually use. Brian closes with an urgent message about the rise of workplace violence in healthcare and why respect for caregivers is essential to recruiting and retaining a strong bedside workforce.Subscribe, share this conversation, and leave a review so more people can find The Common Bridge and join us in building practical understanding across divided lines.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

Recently, Lorri and Becky welcomed back Angela Witwer is a Democratic Michigan state representative known for her long-standing community involvement, healthcare background and leadership in state budgeting. Before entering politics, Witwer spent 22 years in clinical health care at Sparrow Hospital, working in the burn unit, pediatric rehabilitation, and later in community relations and marketing. Witwer was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2018 and currently represents the 76th District, which includes much of Eaton County. She has served as chair of the House Appropriations Committee, overseeing Michigan's state budget. Her legislative work has included securing funding for local services, supporting public education and advocating for seniors. ● When you think back to being the very first guest on Bold LeadHERs a year ago, what stands out to you about that conversation or that moment in time? ● How have you seen the podcast evolve over the past year, and what does it mean to you to return for the anniversary episode? ● In the year since that first episode, what has changed most for you as a leader? ● What's one defining moment in your public service career that continues to guide you? ● What do you believe women leaders uniquely bring to policymaking and public life? They also spoke with Rebecca O'Connell, who brings 25 years of experience leading policy initiatives that address community and private‑sector challenges across local, state, and federal government. Before joining Consumers Energy, she served as Head of Government Affairs at Lake Trust Credit Union and Vice Chair of America's Credit Unions' Legislative Committee. Her advocacy has earned national recognition, including the 2021 NAFCU Paul Revere Award and the 2023 Habitat for Humanity of Michigan Advocate of the Year Award. Rebecca has served on numerous advisory boards, including Habitat for Humanity of Michigan, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Inclusiv, and the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan. Her recent work includes helping establish a Michigan CDFI fund that delivered nearly $100 million to credit unions, generating a billion‑dollar impact for low‑ and moderate‑income residents. She also partnered with Habitat for Humanity to create an innovative mortgage product expanding access to homeownership. ● You've spent 25 years shaping policy across Michigan. When you look back, what moment or experience most defined the leader you are today? ● In your new role as chair of a Women's Economic initiative, what inspires you to be a champion for women in Michigan? ● The Bold LeadHERs Podcast is celebrating one year. What has been the biggest change for you this past year? ● You've worked at every level local, state, federal. What makes Michigan's policy landscape unique, especially here at the Mackinac Policy Conference? ● Which project are you most proud of, and why? ● The Michigan CDFI fund you helped champion delivered nearly $100 million in support. What did it take to make that happen?

State Rep. Bill G. Schutte joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss key policy issues, affordability and the economic impact of Michigan hospitals. To learn more, visit MIHospitals.org.

This episode of The Common Bridge is part of a special 21‑part series of interviews recorded with healthcare leaders from across Michigan during the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, in partnership with the Michigan Health and Hospital AssociationHealth care isn't just a line item anymore, it's the issue that keeps showing up in every hallway conversation. From the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with senior health care executive Rob Casalou to get a clear-eyed view of what's pressuring hospitals in Michigan and across the country, and why the usual policy debates are starting to miss the real story. We compare what Rob sees across multiple states, from Michigan's purple-state gridlock to places like Iowa, where lawmakers are moving to penalize inappropriate insurance claim denials. We get specific about how “denials” can shift from legitimate documentation checks into a strategy that delays payment and inflates administrative costs. We also talk about why states as different as California and Idaho still end up wrestling with the same core topics: 340B drug pricing, site-neutral payments, hospital-based reimbursement, and the challenge of explaining any of it in plain English that connects to patients and communities. Then we zoom out to the bigger warning lights. Rob explains why HR1 and upcoming Medicaid revenue hits, combined with simultaneous changes to 340B and site-neutral rules, could put some hospitals at real risk. We also ask the question that keeps coming up in Michigan health care finance: if Medicare and Medicaid now represent the bulk of patients, how do we modernize those programs instead of constantly cutting around the edges while carrying the administrative costs of a fragmented system? If you care about Michigan health care policy, hospital sustainability, and what actually drives costs, listen through and share it with someone who still thinks this is just about “waste.” Subscribe, leave a review, and send us your take: what's the first fix you'd make?Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

Healthcare affordability is having a moment, and not the vague kind. From the Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with Dr. David Miller, Executive Vice Dean for Clinical Affairs at Michigan Medicine and President of the University of Michigan Health System, to talk about what it takes to lower the total cost of care while protecting access to top-tier clinical outcomes for patients across Michigan.We start with timely news: Michigan Medicine will continue its partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield, easing uncertainty for people who rely on specialty care and were wondering whether they could even schedule their next visit. From there, we zoom out to the bigger policy and operational pressure points across the healthcare ecosystem: how to reduce complications in high-acuity care, why primary care and earlier intervention can prevent expensive crises later, and what “value-based insurance design” looks like when you're serious about paying for treatments that are proven to work.Then we get practical about AI in healthcare. Dr. Miller explains where ambient AI documentation is already reducing administrative burden, why technology-enabled medical education is becoming essential across the health professions, and how evidence from imaging and stroke triage can move innovations from promising demos into real clinical policy. We also talk about rural hospitals and lower resource environments, and how a statewide network can use technology to spread expertise beyond urban centers. We close with the financial reality of medical education and student debt, and what Michigan can do to keep the next generation of clinicians here. If this conversation helps you think differently about affordability, share it, subscribe, and leave a review so more people can find it.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

This episode of The Common Bridge is part of a special 21‑part series of interviews recorded with healthcare leaders from across Michigan during the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, in partnership with the Michigan Health and Hospital AssociationHealthcare costs keep climbing, but the most frustrating part might be how much of the system's pain is self-inflicted. I sit down with Bill Manns, President and CEO of Bronson Healthcare Group in Kalamazoo and chair of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association board, to get specific about what's driving affordability concerns for Michigan hospitals and the people they serve.We talk about what independence really changes for a local health system: local governance, faster feedback from the community, and the freedom to focus on “local care for local people.” From there, we zoom out to the policy environment and why legislative volatility can be just as damaging as a bad bill. When the rules swing back and forth, hospitals cannot plan staffing, investments, or long-term community health work with confidence.Then we tackle the heart of the affordability debate. Bill makes the case that hospitals often do not “set prices” the way people assume, because rates are typically locked in through insurance contracts or driven by government payment. We also dig into the administrative burden that quietly inflates costs, especially prior authorization, where clinicians and patients jump through hoops for services that are frequently approved anyway. If we want real healthcare cost reduction, reducing unnecessary paperwork and delays is one of the most practical places to start.The most hopeful part of the conversation is Kalamazoo County's progress on Black infant mortality, achieved through community collaboration, listening to moms, and a clear focus on health equity and trust. If you care about Michigan healthcare, hospital regulation, prior authorization reform, preventive care, and community health outcomes, this one delivers. Subscribe, share this conversation with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find it.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

This episode of *The Common Bridge* is part of a special 21‑part series of interviews recorded with healthcare leaders from across Michigan during the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, in partnership with the Michigan Health and Hospital Association.In these short conversations, with his guests, Rich explores regulation, cost pressures, workforce challenges, and the future of Healthcare in Michigan and around the Country.A rule written in 1906 still helps decide what “counts” as learning in Michigan classrooms and we think it's long past time to rethink it. From the Mackinac Policy Conference, we sit down with former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder to unpack how seat time requirements can quietly block the most practical kinds of education reform: project-based learning, competency-based credit, and interdisciplinary courses that feel like the real world students are about to enter.We dig into what a student-centered, real-life results model looks like when districts are actually allowed to try it. That means combining subjects (like English with history), connecting math to skilled trades, and building programs where learners demonstrate mastery instead of just logging hours. Snyder explains the bipartisan push behind current Michigan legislation and why local approval matters, with educators and parents closest to students helping shape innovation plans.We also connect education policy to the healthcare workforce pipeline. Michigan hospitals and clinics need motivated talent, and early exposure to health careers can turn school into something students want to show up for. We talk about programs already training future phlebotomists, rad techs, lab techs, and other in-demand roles, plus the “durable skills” that matter even more as artificial intelligence reshapes work: teamwork, critical thinking, and smart use of new tools.If you care about Michigan education, career and technical education, healthcare staffing, or economic growth, this conversation delivers a clear argument for changing the rules so communities can build modern pathways. Subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review with your take: should schools measure learning by time or by results?Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

Monique Stanton, president, CEO, Michigan League for Public Policy, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss pending Medicaid changes, rural access barriers and the essential role Michigan hospitals play as community leaders and trusted messengers when it comes to protecting access to care across the state.

Former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss healthcare policy issues, upcoming Medicaid changes, access challenges impacting rural communities and Sen. Stabenow's appreciation for Michigan's healthcare workforce.

Rick Baker, president and CEO, Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss the important role hospitals plays in local communities not only for the clinical care they provide, but also as economic drivers and primary employers.

State Senator Sarah Anthony joined Rich Helppie, host of The Common Bridge Podcast, May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss healthcare policy, Medicaid and key issues impacting Michigan communities.

Former Michigan governor Rick Snyder joined Rich Helppie, host of The Common Bridge Podcast, May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss key policy priorities impacting Michigan communities.

Robert Casalou, executive vice president, associate chief operating officer, Trinity Health, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss how hospitals are always caring for their communities and always advancing the health of the state. To learn more, visit MIHospitals.org.

Shannon Striebich, president and CEO, Trinity Health Michigan, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss how hospitals are always caring for their communities and always advancing the health of the state. To learn more, visit MIHospitals.org.

Matt Elliott, founder, Blue Lake Ideas, chair emeritus, board of directors, Detroit Regional Chamber, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss the state's evolving economic climate, the vital role of hospitals and the power of 'and' when it comes to moving Michigan communities forward.

Chris Holman speaks with Rejji Hayes, from Media Row, at the Grand Hotel, while at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference. Chris Holman interviews Rejji Hayes, CFO of Consumers Energy, at the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce's Mackinac Policy Conference at the Grand Hotel. Hayes discusses how intensifying weather and climate change are driving Consumers Energy's upcoming reliability action plan, including pole replacement, tree trimming, and a push toward undergrounding infrastructure where feasible. He highlights the company's affordability efforts, noting energy efficiency programs have saved customers $8.5 billion since 2009 (with $18 billion projected by 2050), alongside a major renewable energy buildout of about 11 gigawatts over the next 15-20 years. Hayes also addresses data centers, arguing they're net positive for the state despite their above-ground infrastructure needs, since they pay premium rates that lower costs for other customers, use minimal water, and generate construction jobs and tax revenue. » Visit MBN website: http://www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN's YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: http://www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: http://twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Dominick Pallone, executive director, Michigan Association of Health Plans, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss healthcare affordability challenges, policy priorities, health literacy and the importance of partnering with Michigan hospitals to enhance access to quality care.

Dorrie Dils, president, CEO, Gift of Life Michigan, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss the evolution of Gift of Life, the powerful impact of organ donation and policy change that would increase education around organ and tissue donation among high school students.

In this episode of Michigan Hidden History, Tharan and Robin uncover how Mackinac Island became the backdrop for two major political and business gatherings whose influence reached far beyond northern Michigan.First, they travel back to 1943, when Republican leaders gathered at the Grand Hotel during World War II to debate America's role in the postwar world. At the center was Michigan Senator Arthur Vandenberg, a former isolationist who became one of the country's strongest advocates for international cooperation. The compromise forged at Mackinac helped build Republican support for the United Nations and, later, NATO.That gathering eventually evolved into the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference, attracting major political figures including Ronald Reagan, John McCain, Mitt Romney, and others.Then, Tharan and Robin explore the very different origins of the Mackinac Policy Conference. Beginning in 1904 as a business conference held aboard a Great Lakes cruise ship, the event moved to Mackinac Island in 1981 and grew into one of the Midwest's most influential gatherings of political, business, and civic leaders.From wartime foreign policy debates to conversations about Michigan's economy, infrastructure, and future, this episode reveals how the Grand Hotel's famous porch became much more than a place to relax.Two conferences. One island. Decisions that reached far beyond Michigan.

Denise Brooks-Williams, executive vice president & chief operating officer, Henry Ford Health, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss how hospitals are always caring for their communities and always advancing the health of the state. To learn more, visit MIHospitals.org.

Luanne Thomas Ewald, chief operating officer, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, Von Voigtlander Women's Hospital, University of Michigan Health, joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss how hospitals are always caring for their communities and always advancing the health of the state. To learn more, visit MIHospitals.org.

Dr. Adnan Munkarah, president, care delivery system, chief clinical officer, Henry Ford Health joined Rich Helppie from The Common Bridge Podcast May 27 at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss how hospitals are always caring for their communities and always advancing the health of the state. To learn more, visit MIHospitals.org.

Originally uploaded June 9th, reloaded June 19th. Chris Holman welcomes back Sandy Baruah, President & CEO, Detroit Regional Chamber, Detroit, MI. Welcome back Sandy, another Mackinac Policy Conference behind us, please share some highlights? Tell us more about "A Quest For Common Ground", and did it meet expectations or evolve in unexpected ways? Tell us about the DRC Chamber/Gallup Detroit Data Dashboard? What are the pillars coming out of this year's conference? We spoke with this year's chair Bob Riney of Henry Ford Health, tell us about Tina Freese Decker who has been named the 2027 Mackinac Policy Conference Chair? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ And just like that…the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference has come to a close. Last week's Conference brought together local and national voices from across the political spectrum and encouraged civil, productive exchanges, highlighting Michigan's unique potential to unite diverse perspectives and find common ground amid a divisive political environment. For more check out this story: https://michiganbusinessnetwork.com/edetroiter-top-10-mpc26-conference-moments/

The fastest way to lose faith in your country is to let a screen tell you who your neighbors are. We take that head-on, because the gap between media narratives and real life keeps growing, and it is warping how we talk about policy, elections, and each other.Rich Helppie shares what we are building in season seven of The Common Bridge, including the expanded set of “bridges” across healthcare, education, finance, science, and world affairs. He also brings back a fresh read from the Mackinac Policy Conference in Michigan, where he recorded 21 short interviews across party lines. The big surprise is not that people disagree; it is that plenty of serious, practical work is happening while cable news insists everything is hopeless.Then we get specific about what is driving the disconnect. Rich frames it as two P's: the press and polarization. We talk about why outrage coverage spreads faster than nuance, why audiences keep returning to sources that have misled them, and a simple question that cuts through the hype: how many people do you actually know who behave like the villains you are warned about?To ground it, Rich shares a personal story about hitchhiking across the United States and Canada and meeting people from every walk of life, plus three rules he gave students in a commencement speech: work hard, look it up yourself, and take care of people. If you care about media literacy, fact checking, and healthier civic dialogue, this is a practical reset. Subscribe, share this with a friend who feels burned out by politics, and leave a review so more listeners can find The Common Bridge.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!

June 15, 2026 ~ Jeff Donofrio and Lloyd Jackson speak with Sandy Baruah, President and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber. They discuss the Mackinac Policy Conference, Michigan's economic challenges, and the Gordie Howe Bridge. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Michigan Opportunity Podcast Continues Conversations at the Mackinac Policy Conference 2026We continue broadcasting from Media Row at the legendary Mackinac Policy Conference, hosted at the iconic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The podcast featured an outstanding lineup of guests discussing Michigan's future across economic development, mobility, manufacturing, leadership, innovation, defense, technology, talent, and global competitiveness.Part 2 guests include:Joe White, High Speed Rodeo SubstackMatt Elliot, Blue Link IdeasCarmen Wells Quigg, Economic Growth InstituteKelly Wolgamott, Pure MichiganCarolina Pluszczynski, Michigan CentralDr. Robert McMahan, Kettering UniversityRachel Kuntzsch, Public Sector Consultants

The Michigan Opportunity Podcast Heads to the Mackinac Policy Conference 2026The Michigan Opportunity Podcast once again broadcasted from Media Row at the legendary Mackinac Policy Conference, hosted at the iconic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The podcast featured an outstanding lineup of guests discussing Michigan's future across economic development, mobility, manufacturing, leadership, innovation, defense, technology, talent, and global competitiveness.Part 1 Guests include:Tricia Keith, Blue Cross Blue ShieldHilary Doe, MoveDetroitColin Bird, Canadian ConsulRichard A. Bierschbach, Wayne State UniversityLaura Lee McIntyre, Michigan State UniversityStephen Rapundalo, MichBioMary Lewis, Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic

This week's episode includes host Samantha Shriber's coverage of the Mackinac Policy Conference, a yearly gathering of government, business and nonprofit leaders hosted by the Detroit Regional Chamber.  MIRS sits down with David Jurcak, president of the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. They talk about hiring tourism employees from overseas, concerns around the Shepler's Ferry monopoly and the United States' 250th anniversary (3:19).  U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin, the Holly Democrat, also explains why, as a former CIA officer, she sees Chinese cars driving into the country as "surveillance packages on wheels" (27:22).  Also, President Brian Calley of the Small Business Association of Michigan says that 42% of members are one to three years away from no longer being able to offer health insurance due to rate increases (40:39). 

Daily Detroit is on the porch at the Mackinac Policy Conference, and Jer and Devon have a wide‑ranging conversation about Michigan's political future and Detroit's urgency problem. From Governor Gretchen Whitmer's emphatic "no" on a presidential run to the very real possibility she ends up as the top choice for vice president, they unpack what her popularity says about the broader electoral landscape and 2024's lessons for Democrats in a swing state. (That said, after we recorded, she hedged her bets later in the day). On the island, the 2026 governor's race was present (but not in a debate), and we talk about it. Then, they zoom in on one of the most revealing moments of the week: A years‑long legislative delay on the RenCen brownfield deal, even with a billion‑dollar offer on the table and no profit motive. What does it say about how Michigan makes decisions, and we talk about why "maybe" is often worse than "no." The conversation closes with a look at the dysfunction of elected university boards in Michigan in the wake of the resignation of the MSU president, the talent pipeline, and the physical glow‑up on Mackinac Island — from the Grand Hotel to Lake View and Mission Point — as Michigan lives up to its billing as a top national destination.

On today's Daily Detroit, we start the week with a conversation with State Senator — and Democratic U.S. Senate hopeful — Mallory McMorrow. It's the third in our series of Democratic Senate candidate interviews, and we're focused squarely on what federal power could actually mean for Detroit, Metro Detroit, and Michigan. McMorrow talks about why she first Googled "how to run for office" after the 2016 election, and why she frames governing as a design challenge to build policy that improves people's lives. She talked about an approach to ieconomic development that feels less like "Lucy and the football" and more like real, ground‑up regional growth — including transit as economic development, and keeping young people from leaving the state. From there, the conversation moves to the auto industry and EVs, competition from China, and why she wants incentives that grow talent and clusters of jobs instead of focusing on chasing megaprojects. We also touch on affordability: gas prices, housing, childcare, and McMorrow's push to scale ideas like universal pre‑K, free school meals, more housing production, paid leave, and cracking down on scammy online ads. You'll also hear her vision on healthcare access, expanding Michigan's red flag law approach to the federal level, and supporting Detroit‑grown community violence intervention. And because this is Daily Detroit, they close with some city love — from classic Michigan license plates helping fix roads to her favorite spots around town.  We'll be at the Mackinac Policy Conference all week, so be sure to check your podcast feeds and inboxes for updates.  Constructive feedback as always: 313-789-3211 or dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com. And make sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

Day Break | Strength, Sacrifice, and the Battle for America's Future --- 00:00 - Monologue 19:07 – Mary Holland, Esq., President of Children's Health Defense and longtime health freedom advocate. Holland discusses reports linking a soldier's heart condition to a COVID vaccine she was allegedly required to take while serving in the military. The conversation focuses on vaccine mandates within the armed forces, informed consent, and the rights of military personnel regarding medical decisions. 47:08 – Nick Hopwood, Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Peak Wealth Management. Hopwood discusses Memorial Day traditions and boating safety while also covering financial topics including annuities, IPO market activity, and investment strategies. He explains why some investors become trapped in “annuity hell” and discusses the concept of derivative income versus traditional dividend income. 38:08 - Monologue Featuring Ivey Gruber 47:08 – Natalie Dominguez, Title Theft Education Specialist for Home Title Lock. Dominguez discusses a Louisville woman whose home was allegedly stolen through quitclaim deed fraud. She explains how title theft schemes work and why homeowners should monitor property records carefully. 57:17 – Frank Kelly III, CEO of Kelly Benefits and author of Love & Go. Kelly discusses America's growing loneliness epidemic and the broader decline of community and personal connection in modern society. He explains why rebuilding relationships and social engagement is critical for emotional and societal health. 1:16:16 - Monologue 1:24:10 – Congresswoman Kat Cammack, representative for Florida's 3rd Congressional District. Cammack discusses efforts to address workplace sexual misconduct in Congress and reforms aimed at improving accountability and protections for staff members. 1:34:23 – Ryan Duffy, member of the Enbridge Communication Team. Duffy discusses major energy issues facing Michigan ahead of the Mackinac Policy Conference, including energy reliability, security, and the Line 5 tunnel project. He also provides updates on construction progress related to Line 5 infrastructure work in Wisconsin. 1:43:06 – Ivey Gruber, President of the Michigan Talk Network. Gruber discusses food ingredients, health awareness, and concerns over harmful additives in modern diets. The conversation also reflects on the passing of legendary NASCAR racer Drew Busch and his impact on the racing community. --- Check out our brand new podcast, 'Forgotten America'... Episode 16 is live NOW at Steve Gruber on YouTube! Link below: https://youtu.be/I4UA2LzQQUg

Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has abruptly ended his independent run for governor, blowing up Michigan's 2026 race less than six months before voters head to the polls. In this emergency episode of Daily Detroit, Jer, Devon and Norris break down why Duggan says "the numbers just aren't there," how national headwinds shifted after Trump's second-term agenda, and why independents are stampeding away from the GOP this cycle. We get into what Duggan's exit means for Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson's path to the governor's office, the clown car situation on the Republican side, and how this all reshapes the map heading into the Mackinac Policy Conference. We also kick around some speculation on Duggan's next move — including strong rumors about the presidency of the University of Michigan — and why his "fixer" skill set might be headed from city hall to collegiate head.  As always, be sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to shows.