Michigan Motors Forward

In the Coronavirus pandemic, more attention is being paid to the psychological affects of kids not being able to get physical activity and interact with each other.  Since before COVID, Playworks has been helping kids to stay active and build valuable life skills through play.  And like all of us, they've had to adapt in 2020.

Matt Matthews of Playworks Michigan joins us to explain the importance of play for kids, and the ways that Playworks has pivoted, offering opportunities for physical interaction and play for students in person, as well as those in front of a screen.

More: https://www.playworks.org/playathome

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

Michelle Wein is the director of research and regional initiatives at WIN, Michigan's Workforce Intelligence Network.  

She explains the research that WIN does, and the numbers they've looked at before and during the pandemic.   How has the labor market in Michigan been hit, and where do we stand now? Are these jobs coming back?

Michelle talks about the value of the Michigan Works program to help job seekers find new employment, as well as the ways WIN helps employers think about hiring decisions.

We look to the future - where are the job opportunities now, heading into 2021, and beyond?

What's her best advice for those seeking employment, and those seeking employees?

Finally, we look at COVID-19's immediate impact on the workforce, and dispel the myth that opening the economy and controlling the pandemic are mutually exclusive.

Resources:

Michigan Workforce Intelligence Network: https://winintelligence.org/

Michigan Works! https://www.michiganworks.org/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

The Cystic Fibrosis community has been "social distancing" since before the term even existed.  Having a genetic disease that causes chronic and fatal lung infections causes a need for CF patients to remain six feet apart from one another.

Laura Bonnell has two daughters with CF, and that motivated her to create The Bonnell Foundation for Cystic Fibrosis.  This September 26th, they will be hosting their annual Night of Hope.  Like many organizations, the event has gone virtual.  In this case, however, this format allows much more flexibility and inclusion among the CF community.

Today, we preview the Night of Hope, with its numerous musicians, artists, and prizes available for attendees.

We also take a look at what the medical community has learned from Cystic Fibrosis, and how those lessons have informed the battle against COVID-19.  Mask wearing, social distancing, and accelerated clinical trials have a lot in common with Cystic Fibrosis treatment.

Resources:

Night of Hope: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/event/night-of-hope-celebration/

The Bonnell Foundation Website: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/

Laura's Podcast, Living with Cystic Fibrosis: https://livingwithcysticfibrosis.simplecast.com/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

The DuMouchelle’s auction house is a Detroit institution. 

Since 1927, the family business has handled auctions for rare antiques and art and established a reputation as one of the best businesses of its kind in the country. Located on Jefferson Avenue across from the Renaissance Center, DuMouchelle’s has hosted auctions in its gallery for decades, as well as online. Collectors around the world trust DuMouchelle’s to appraise works and handle all parts of auctions. But when the pandemic hit, everything had to move online.  

When you're on a Zoom call, a fraction-of-a-second delay may be a slight annoyance. In the context of a live auction, however, every moment is crucial.  Bob explains how the team had to evaluate different platforms for both functionality and security.

Of course, the pandemic has necessitated adjustments in all areas of DuMochelle's business.  Appraisals are done over FaceTime, items are often left in windows of the facility for prospective buyers to evaluate, and some customers opt to wait until it is safe to visit in person.

One positive that Bob sees: the ability to work from home and research pieces that they learn about.  He explains a unique collection that they've been able to take a deep dive into.

Resources:

DuMochelle's Website: https://www.dumoart.com/

DuMochelle's on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DuMouchellesArtAuctions

DuMochelle's on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DuMouchelleArt

DuMochelle's on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dumouchellesartauctions/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

"ChadTough" started as a rallying cry for 5 year-old Chad Carr. His grandfather Lloyd was the National Championship football coach at Michigan. His dad, Jason, was a Michigan quarterback. His mom, Tammi, began her career as a hospital fundraiser. After Chad passed away from a pediatric brain cancer known as DIPG, his family made sure his name and spirit became a mission, with the ChadTough Foundation. They have raised millions – but much more work is to be done. 

Tammi is our guest today, and she explains how the ChadTough Foundation has adapted its fundraising and events calendar in light of the pandemic. We cover the delicate balance between not seeming insensitive to COVID-19 while simultaneously not slowing the efforts against DIPG.

The Foundation's April event went virtual, continued to benefit from sponsors, and even creating ChadTough branded masks.

The annual  “RunTough” event on Chad's birthday will still happen this fall, with in person and online components. As always, there will be an auction for some incredible experiences with well-known friends of the Foundation.  In our climate of social distancing, those experiences may be different, but can actually be an easier request of those famous faces.

Finally, Tammi discusses the battle against the disease that took  her 5 year-old son.  While they were disheartened by the lack of progress over the last several decades, they are proud of the work that's been done in just the last five years.

Link:

ChadTough Foundation Website: https://www.chadtough.org/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

The Detroit Economic Club was founded in 1934, during the Great Depression. It intended to bring Detroit business together, and it also brought some of the country's brightest business and policy minds to Michigan to share their ideas.

Steve Grigorian, President and CEO of the DEC, is our guest today. He illustrates the parallels between 1934 and 2020, and he takes us through the transition to digital keynotes and networking groups.

Since Michigan's Stay at Home order went into effect, the Detroit Economic Club has brought in some of the biggest names in the financial, medical and education worlds to discuss various aspects of the pandemic with members.

Steve and Jon also delve into the conflicting points of view around working from home. Some employees love it, but others can't wait to get back to the office. Some employers will need far less office space and some will need to invest in more.

Finally, Steve talks about what makes him hopeful going forward.  Will we find better work-life balances? Will we finally address the connectivity gap?

Resources:

Detroit Economic Club Website: http://www.econclub.org/

Phone number: 313-963-8547

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

In March and April this year, Gleaners Community Food Bank saw their food distribution rise from 7.5 million pounds to 10.8 million pounds, a stunning 45% year over year increase.

Today we are joined by Rachelle Bonelli, Gleaners' Vice President of Programs. She explains how they saw the pandemic coming, and what steps they took in their supply chain to ensure they could meet the increasing food needs of those living in Southeast Michigan..

This included providing meals for kids who were all of a sudden out of school in March instead of June. Gleaners also expanded their partnerships with  health departments, the National Guard, and other organizations in the 5 counties they serve.

Each one of Gleaners' 70 sites serves approximately 300 households, opening on a bi-weekly basis, and providing healthy food in a safe, non-contact way.  They've also been providing shelf-stable food boxes to those who can't - or shouldn't - leave home.

Resources:
Gleaners Community Food Bank Website: https://www.gcfb.org/

Gleaners Phone Number: 313-923-3535.

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

June is Men's Health Month, and usually, that means large in-person events to raise money and awareness.  In the case of the MIU Mens' Health Foundation, Dr. Michael Lutz and his team had to re-work three signature fundraising events.

Cogs and Kegs will now be virtual, with $20 raised by bikers for every 20 miles they ride on their own, with an online leader board. Each $20 will cover the cost of a men's health screening this fall. Griffin Claw Brewing Company will be adding in gift cards as well.

Typically, "Blue Monday" kicks off Men's Health Week.  This June 15th, instead of dressing the city of Detroit in blue a free event Downtown, the Foundation is asking people everywhere to wear blue and display it on social media with the hashtag #BlueMonday2020. The idea is to start a conversation about getting men healthy.

Instead of taking place at the Detroit Zoo, this year's Run For The Ribbon 5K will be virtual on Father's Day, running close to home, wherever they would like.  Registrants can sign up online and download all materials from the raise, all in an effort to raise awareness for prostate cancer and other men's health issues.

Statistically, men are far less likely than women to visit health care providers.  Dr. Lutz explains why many men go to the doctor not for prevention, but as a reaction.  A goal of the MIU Men's Health Foundation is to educate and persuade men to be more proactive about their health.

Dr. Lutz previews this year's Ford Field event (link below) in September. It's a non-invasive health screening that helps men get checked out in all areas. This year, they are also hoping to add jobs resources in the wake of COVID-19.

Finally, Dr. Lutz explains the areas of health that men need to check on as they enter each new decade of their lives, and he catches us up on some of the theories on why Coronavirus seems to affect men disproportionately.

Resources:

MIU Mens Health Foundation Website: https://www.miumenshealthfoundation.org/

Cogs and Kegs: www.cogsandkegs.org

Run For The Ribbon 5k: www.MIURunfortheRibbon.org

Blue Monday: www.BlueMondayMensHealth.org

Ford Field Men's Health Event: https://www.miumenshealthfoundation.org/mens-health-event

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

Rochester Community Schools were among the first districts in the state to switch to distance learning.  This was no easy task. Dr. Robert Shaner explains the complex thought process that preceded the move.  This included getting input from state and local officials, as well as a task force comprised of many different types of voices.

The district was quick to dismantle computer labs and buy mobile hot spots, to make sure as many kids as possible had the tools they needed to continue their education.  The course work wasn't the first priority though. Dr. Shaner walks us through the steps taken by his team to make sure that the kids themselves were taken care of.  After all, this is a trauma informed situation.

Preparation was key - from having enough hot spots to donate to other communities, to partnering with the Center for Trauma Resilient Communities to offering resources to kids and professional development for staff.

Moving forward, Dr. Shaner talks about his most pressing issues, and we discuss what school could look like if we return in the fall.  Social distancing would be difficult - and expensive - to maintain in classrooms. And there are a number of variables that most folks haven't even considered.

If you find it challenging to manage your job and your kids at the same time, imagine what teachers are going through.  Dr. Shaner explains how emotional it can be for the educators who really miss their kids.

Finally, we cover some of the leadership lessons Robert learned in his time in the Marine Corps and as a police officer, and how that informs his style managing his team. And we close with his message to the educators, parents, and students in his district.

Resources:

Rochester Community School District Website: https://www.rochester.k12.mi.us/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

Josh Baker is owner of Cinderella's Wedding DJs, based in Waterford.  We've all heard stories of restaurants closing, folks losing their jobs, and more.  But imagine planning your wedding - and then having to postpone it.

First, Josh explained some of the conversations he's had to have with clients since the shutdown began in March - and the idea of planning, not panicking.

Some couples are opting for smaller weddings and making other changes, but most have a new sense of perspective as they re-plan their big day.

We talk about some of the logistics of re-booking DJs, and how far out rebookings are happening, and the potential backlog of weddings as we look ahead to 2021.

Josh also discusses the struggles of being a small business owner, and how he considers himself lucky to be working out of his home.

Finally, we cover some of the ways that Cinderella's Wedding DJs is trying to help - having conversations with clients and non-clients alike, just trying to offer help and support as brides and grooms-to-be navigate this tough situation. 

Contact info:

Cinderellas Website: http://cinderellasweddingdjs.com/

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cwdjs

Via Phone: 248-618-3211

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

Maria Fracassa Dwyer is the first woman to serve as Member In Charge of Clark Hill, PLC's Detroit office in its nearly 130 year history.  She experienced another first when she joined her fellow firm leaders to make the call to have all employees work from home.

As the one of the top workplace experts in Michigan, Maria has pivoted the focus of her practice to advising clients on how - and when - to bring employees back to the office. How does business continue amid this crisis?

Maria explains how Clark Hill is bringing people back, as well as other businesses. It comes down to obeying the law first (there have been more than 187 federal and state laws passed during the pandemic). Next, however, employers must find other ways to accommodate their staff.

What will the future hold? Now that many of us have been working from home, will some continue to do so? We explore that as well.

Resource:

Clark Hill Website: https://www.clarkhill.com/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

Variety, The Children's Charity of Detroit, has been helping kids since 1932.  Their programs include everything from horseback riding to food assistance to prosthetic hands.

Like all of us, the Coronavirus pandemic caused the organization to have to revamp the ways it operates.  Executive Diretor Michelle Murphy joins us to explain.

Through the group's Variety Feeds Kids Program, Variety has been providing weekend meals to children for 8 years. Prior to COVID, these meals were handed out in school on Fridays. Seemingly overnight, Variety's volunteers and partner organizations (including the Oakland County Sheriff's Office) had to pivot.  Food still needed to get to these kids, but large groups of volunteers couldn't work together in the age of social distancing.

For obvious reasons, some programs have had to go on a temporary hiatus - like horseback riding.  Others, such as KIDS  - Kids In Distressed Situations - are continuing to accept and process donations.  Michelle explains how the process has adapted to the times, and how Variety is still able to work with its 30 partner charities in this effort.  The logistics have changed, but the need hasn't.

The pandemic has also affected Variety's fundraising capabilities, as large scale events are on hiatus during Coronavirus. There's been a shift to corporate donations, and companies here in Metro Detroit have responded.

We close with a few minutes about the Myoelectric Center at Beaumont Children's Hospital.  The work that this program does to provide functioning robotic hands to kids is inspiring.

Resource:

Variety, The Children's Charity Detroit Website: http://variety-detroit.com/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

You may be missing the bar or restaurant experience, and no doubt you've heard the stories about the owners of these establishments.  But what about the other companies that rely on bar and restaurant patrons to stay in business?

Mike Yum founded local trivia company Quizzo! in 2008. Chances are, if you've played trivia in a bar or restaurant in Metro Detroit in the last decade, it was hosted by one of the company's "Quizmasters."

As it became increasingly apparent that MIchigan was going to close bars and restaurants, Mike and his team began working on re-inventing their entire business model, shifting it online.  Over the past weeks, the company started several online offerings, including:

1. Virtual Quizzo - with the hosts and players participating over video chat
2. Virtual Quizzo for corporate clients - the equivalent of a virtual happy hour
3. Carry-Out Quizzo - themed packages available to purchase online to host your own game.
4. Free Quizzo twice weekly on Facebook live.

As a Michigan company, it was also important for Quizzo to give back to the community that's supported them for 12 years.  This included creating revenue-earning opportunities for the company's hosts, and even some educational quiz packages to help with home schooling, written by a board-certified educator.

Resources:

Quizzo Website: https://quizzodetroit.com/

Quizzo Online Store:  https://store.quizzodetroit.com/

Quizzo on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/quizzodetroit

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in partnership with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications

Samaritas is one of the largest nonprofit organizations in Michigan, with about 2000 staffers across 60 sites statewide. The organization cares for seniors, the underprivileged, foster families, and more.

May is Foster Care Awareness Month, and with that in mind, we look at the different ways Samaritas has had to adapt their foster efforts since the COVID-19 hit Michigan.

They've ramped up efforts to provide tablets and other technology to birth parents, so that they can stay in touch with their kids in foster care.  In person visits have to wait, but maintaining a connection to their birth parents is especially important to kids of any age.

Before the shutdown, Samaritas was serving 1,000 kids in the state. They estimate, however, that number to be only a third of those in need.  And  those numbers are likely to skyrocket after the "shelter in place" order is lifted.  There are no guardrails currently - nobody outside the home for kids to reach out to.

To prepare for the influx of foster and Child Protective Services cases, Samaritas is simultaneously reaching out to existing foster parents and recruiting new ones.  The training for new ones has moved online.

Additionally, with the increase in alcohol sales, substance abuse has become an even bigger concern. Kelli Dobner, the Chief Advancement Officer, explained how Samaritas is expanding efforts in this area.

Samaritas says "It takes a purple village" to surround these kids, both during Foster Care Awareness month and always.

Resources:

Samaritas Website: https://www.samaritas.org/

Samaritas Foster Care Resource Page: https://www.samaritas.org/fostercare

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in collaboration with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

For more than 40 years, CARE House of Oakland County has been serving the area's most vulnerable - kids in unsafe situations.  There is no "business as usual" when it comes to the work they do, but like all of us, they've had to adapt to the pandemic.

Blythe Tyler, the organization's CEO, joins us today to explain the legal and counseling work that CARE House does. This includes a shift to therapy sessions via telehealth for victims and their families.  Also, their forensic interviews are able to continue.

1 in 10 kids in Oakland County has been abused.  Because many cases are of a sexual nature, they often go unreported. 90% percent of these abusers know their victims.

As the Coronavirus crisis unfolded, CARE House didn't simply blanket their clients with what they thought these families needed.  They actually asked what those areas of need are.  Like the abuse itself, COVID-19 knows no socioeconomic boundaries.

Families told CARE House they need essentials.  This includes food, diapers, cleaning supplies, and more. Care house is now helping more than 60 families in need. In addition to telehealth, this includes contact-less drop off of these essential items.

Blythe also explains Early Head Start, part of the national Head Start program for kids at risk. 

Often times, abuse is reported by teachers or other facilitators outside the home.  With all of us staying at home, potentially with abusers, Blythe talks about her concern for these victims and what can be done now.  Not only can you report potential abuse on their website, but you can also take an online training course on what to do if you suspect abuse.

This is a difficult time for all of us, and CARE House is doing a web series called Strong Families on their site, as a resource for the community.

Resources:

Care House Website https://www.carehouse.org/

Prevention Education https://www.carehouse.org/prevention-education/

Care House Blog https://occarehouse.wordpress.com/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in partnership with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

Daniel Kaufman is the Head of Corporate Strategy and New Business Development at FKA Brands, parent company of HoMedics.  The Commerce Twp., Michigan based, family-owned company, has a long history of bringing both lifestyle and medical devices to the public, as well as giving back to the community they call home.  COVID-19 gave them an opportunity to revamp their global supply chain and do all of these things at once.

As the pandemic spread, the company realized the brick and mortar stores selling their products would be closing. But they did have production and distribution channels in China.  This enabled them to shift production and begin making masks and other forms of PPE, or personal protective equipment.  But it wasn't easy.  Daniel says it was only because of their robust audit system that they were able to properly vet factories.  In the end, of 70 factories vetted, only 6 were up to par.

Once the equipment starting rolling off the assembly line, though, it had to make its way to Michigan. And when HoMedics didn't have much luck with traditional shippers, they reached out to commercial airlines.  For the first time, an Israeli El Al Jet landed at Detroit Metro Airport.  The plane wasn't carrying people, it was helping to save them. And this proved very special for Daniel's father - Alon Kaufman, a native Israeli.

Finally, the company is ramping up production on its ultraviolet light products - used to sanitize phones and other products.  Daniel spoke about the need to teach the public about these products.

More: 

HoMedics on the web: https://www.homedics.com/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in partnership with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

The Chaldean American community is an essential part of the fabric - and economy - of Southeast Michigan.  Martin Manna, President of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce, joins us to discuss the leadership role of the Chamber, as well as its charitable arm, the Chaldean Community Foundation.

The Foundation serves the entire Metro Detroit community, regardless of ethnicity or religion. And when COVID-19 hit Michigan, like everyone else, they had to adjust. This included transitioning 50 staff to working from home, as well as how to serve clients that are normally seen face-to-face.  Whether it's a language barrier or a developmental disability, each client presents different challenges.  In the last 5 weeks, they've answered and processed 3,500 calls.

A challenge unique to the Chaldean community is distrust of government.  Many in the immigrant community come from countries where government information isn't to be believed. To combat that, the Chamber and Foundation enlisted trusted religious leaders to get the the word out about COVID-19 and the risk of community spread.

The Coronavirus resource page on the Foundation website (linked below) offers resources for the Chaldean American community with regard to mental health and business assistance - as 60% of households are business owners.

Additionally, there is a strong effort to make sure that Chaldeans are counted in the 2020 Census.  It's important for these citizens to understand that they need to be counted to increase federal funding in the community.  In the 2010 Census, only 45,000 of Michigan's estimated 160,000 Chaldeans were counted.

Finally, we highlight some member businesses that have gone above and beyond to help their fellow Metro Detroiters, including Wild Bills Tobacco, Beyond Juice, and Regency Manor. The Chamber has also partnered with Gardner White.

Many Chamber members own grocery stores in and around the city of Detroit. They've also been doing their part to re-work the customer experience, including delivery and pickup options.

Nearly 35% of Chamber members are non-Chaldean, and among Foundation clients, nearly 20% are non-Chaldean.  The efforts of both of these organizations are helping Metro Detroiters of all backgrounds during this challenging time.

Resources:

Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce: https://www.chaldeanchamber.com/

Chaldean Community Foundation: https://www.chaldeanfoundation.org/

COVID-19 Resources Page: https://www.chaldeanfoundation.org/covid-19-community-resources/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in partnership with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

No doubt you've seen the Sam Bernstein Law Firm on your television for quite some time.  You may have noticed, however, that their ads have taken a much different tone during the pandemic.

Today, we speak with the man in many of those spots - Mark Bernstein - about the discussions his family had.  They needed to change the messaging and meet the moment,  but do so in a way that was consistent with their brand.

First, they went against their normal slogan of "CALL SAM," and said "Don't call Sam. Call your loved ones."  It was a message that really resonated with viewers, and the family heard from many of them.

Next, the Bernsteins partnered with another Michigan brand - Biggby Coffee - to provide first responders and medical workers free coffee at local drive-thrus.  Mark explains how that partnership came to be, and how they've been able to put thousands of cups of coffee in the hands of some very deserving people.

Finally, Mark and his family forged a fast relationship with the American Red Cross.  Without traditional blood drives, there is an urgent need for donors.  This ad campaign helps explain how Red Cross donation centers can still safely accept blood.

While the TV ads are running, so is the Sam Bernstein Law Firm.  Over the past several years, the company has largely invested in remote technology. They wanted to be prepared if a catastrophic event kept them out of the office. This technology helps them continue to service their clients, safely and securely.

Resources:

Bernstein Law Firm Website: https://callsam.com/

Biggby Website: https://www.biggby.com/

American Red Cross Website: https://www.redcross.org/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in partnership with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

Detroit Public Television is the widest-reaching media outlet for kids in Southeast Michigan, available to anyone with a television or connected device.  When it became evident that Michigan schools were going to close, DPTV knew they needed to revamp both programming and resources to meet the needs of Michigan children of all ages, as well as their parents.

First, they tapped into the vast PBS programming resources available for kids.  Then they began working with PBS Learning Media, a classroom resource that has been around for quite some time.  By the time schools were shut down, their 6-days-per-week newsletter was providing resources and encouragement to teachers, parents, and students alike. DPTV has also kept in touch with the communities it serves via daily Zoom calls with school districts in Southeast Michigan.

Next, Detroit Public Television revamped its entire program schedule, leveraging their recently created 24x7 kids channel as well as their main channel.  The "kids" channel now serves upper elementary, middle, and high school students from 7am-6pm, airing shows out of the vast PBS library that have been aligned to national educational standards.

It was important for DPTV to keep their entire audience in mind, as some homes have multiple connected devices.  Others, however, may not have internet connectivity at all.

We close with some words of encouragement for parents, who are balancing work, home, and school all at once.

Resources:

Detroit Public Television Website: https://www.dptv.org/

Detroit Public Television Education Page and Newsletter Signup: https://www.dptv.org/education/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in partnership with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/

Jason Grobbel is the President of EW Grobbel and Sons, a Detroit Institution since 1883.  You may know some of their famous brands, including Grobbel corned beef, Sy Ginsburg Jewish Corned Beef, Topor's pickles, and more.

While much has been made of supermarkets, and their heroic staff, how does the food get to the actual stores?  Jason explains the importance of food processors in the supply chain, and how COVID-19 has affected the balance of restaurant vs supermarket in their business model.

As a distributor, EW Grobbel and Sons has a close relationship with the restaurants they serve, and they are trying to help their partners in that space through the pandemic.

In addition to restaurants, of course many Metro Detroiters are struggling to put food on the table. Jason and his team partnered with Forgotten Harvest, and donated a 40,000 pound truckload of corned beef.

Finally, as author of the book Leading America Back to Work: Reimagining Today's Workplace, Jason talks about some of the lessons he's learned in adaptability apply today.  Jason explains how Coronavirus could  cause us to re-invent our economy moving forward.  He believes the "skills gap" isn't in the workforce, but with entrepreneurs.  We could stand to learn a few lessons from a well known Detroit businessman - Henry Ford.

Resources:

Jason's Book: Leading America Back to Work : https://www.amazon.com/Leading-America-Back-Work-Reimagining-ebook/dp/B07N6G13DK/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=leading+america+back+to+work&qid=1587581170&sr=8-1

EW. Grobbel and Sons Website: https://www.grobbel.com/

Forgotten Harvest Website: https://www.forgottenharvest.org/

Michigan Motors Forward is produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts in partnership with Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

https://jagindetroit.com/

https://tannerfriedman.com/