Truscott Rossman

In this episode of Beyond Both Sides, we go on the road—recording live from the grand opening of a new Sheetz in Novi—to explore a bigger question: what is the cost of saying no to development?Sheetz announced its Michigan expansion in 2022. It took years—and real resistance—to open its first locations. And that’s not unusual. From data centers to housing to retail, Michigan has developed a reputation as a place that is simply hard to build in.We break down why that matters—and what it’s costing the state in jobs, investment, and long-term competitiveness.We’re also joined by Nick Ruffner (Public Affairs Manager) and Justin Mandel (Director of Real Estate) from Sheetz to discuss:What it’s like to develop in Michigan vs. other statesWhy Sheetz is still betting on Michigan with a $500M investmentHow communities respond to new development—and what worksWhat state and local leaders could do differentlyPlus:Michigan political updates, including the latest in statewide racesThe legacy of former U.S. Senator Don RiegleTulip Time and what it says about building a lasting identity

In this episode of Beyond Both Sides, we explore a growing challenge in modern politics: the performance of authenticity.After Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear criticized the use of “advocacy language,” we dig into a deeper question—whether the problem is the words themselves or a broader breakdown in trust between politicians and the public.From “food insecurity” to “hunger,” does changing language actually make leaders more relatable—or just more rehearsed? And is this a messaging issue, or a sign that voters can tell when authenticity is being manufactured?We’re also joined by Trevor Tkach, President and CEO of Traverse City Tourism, to discuss:What makes Traverse City a standout destinationThe future of the Pure Michigan brandHow tourism plays a role in Northern Michigan’s recovery after recent floodingThe challenge of balancing growth with community identityPlus:Updates on Michigan’s statewide racesAC Grand Rapids building toward its 2027 debutFlood recovery efforts across Northern Michigan

In this episode of Beyond Both Sides, we unpack a striking moment in Michigan’s economic conversation: a Detroit developer saying to Grand Rapids, “we want to be you.”It’s a shift in how the state thinks about growth—not as a competition between cities, but as a question of whether Michigan has enough strong places to compete at all.We break down what Grand Rapids has done differently, from decades of coordinated downtown investment to talent-focused placemaking—and how similar strategies are now shaping Detroit’s next phase of development.We’re also joined by Megan Spanitz, Chief Operating Officer of the Detroit Regional Chamber, to discuss:The thinking behind the “house is on fire” messageWhat to expect from the Mackinac Policy ConferenceHow leaders can find common ground in a critical political momentPlus:Flood risk and infrastructure challenges in Northern MichiganProgress—and remaining gaps—in traffic safetyMichigan State’s medical school merger

In this episode of Beyond Both Sides, we take a closer look at Michigan’s travel and tourism industry—and ask a critical question: is it time to rethink Pure Michigan?Tourism drives more than $25 billion in annual visitor spending and supports over 200,000 jobs statewide, but the industry is entering a more uncertain phase. As consumer confidence softens and international travel—especially from Canada—lags, we explore what it will take for Michigan to sustain growth.We’re also joined by Julie Alvin, a media strategist and former executive at theSkimm, Bustle Digital Group, and Refinery29. Julie shares insights on how the media landscape is shifting, how audiences actually consume information today, and what leaders often get wrong when trying to communicate across increasingly divided and fragmented audiences.Plus:Michigan wins the NCAA ChampionshipNew signals in the Michigan U.S. Senate raceWhat GM’s recent sales decline means for the economy

In this episode of Beyond Both Sides, we break down a stark warning about Michigan’s economy: “the house is on fire.”The Detroit Regional Chamber’s State of the Region report argues that while headlines point to growth—new projects, stabilized population, and investment—Michigan is still falling behind peer states in job growth, income, and talent attraction.We explore what’s really driving this gap, why it matters for the state’s long-term competitiveness, and how this moment could shape the upcoming Michigan governor’s race and broader economic policy decisions.Plus:Grand Rapids pro soccer team and new downtown investmentDetroit Mayor Mary Sheffield outlines a bold State of the City agendaMichigan Republicans consolidate candidates ahead of the 2026 electionIf you’re following Michigan politics, economic development, or Midwest trends, this episode unpacks what’s beneath the surface.

In this episode of Beyond Both Sides, we break down the political shift in suburban America, focusing on Oakland County, Michigan—once a Republican stronghold and now a key battleground suburb shaping elections.As J.D. Vance and others push national narratives about cultural change, we examine what’s actually happening: a suburb that is more diverse, highly educated, and politically competitive than ever before. Oakland County offers a real-time case study in U.S. suburban voting trends and the future of American politics.Plus: updates on the Grand Rapids Whitewater Project, Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) TSA wait times, and ICE contractor donations in Michigan’s U.S. Senate race.

This week on Beyond Both Sides, a global conflict is getting closer to home.As the war with Iran enters its third week, the headlines focus on missiles, oil markets, and military strategy. But beneath the surface, the effects are already moving through Michigan’s economy — shaping everything from gas prices and auto demand to defense contracts, agriculture, and even cyberattacks on Michigan-based companies.So is this moment an economic opportunity for the state… or a growing risk?Chris and Allie break down the competing forces at play — from billions in potential defense investment in Macomb County to rising costs squeezing consumers and farmers across the state. Plus, what a cyberattack on Portage-based Stryker reveals about how modern conflict reaches far beyond the battlefield.Also in this episode:Historic snowfall shuts down parts of Northern MichiganInvestigation continues after an attack at a West Bloomfield synagogueA March Madness check-in with TR’s Elliot Talen (brackets included)A reminder from the University of Michigan on what it actually looks like to “disagree better”Because the biggest story this week isn’t just what’s happening overseas — it’s how global instability and local reality are more connected than we think.🎧 Beyond Both Sides explores the intersection of politics, policy, and people — without the noise.

Michigan’s tax system was built for a manufacturing economy. But today’s economy looks very different.In Episode 19 of Beyond Both Sides, Chris Moyer and Allie Walker break down one of the biggest policy debates unfolding in Lansing: Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall’s proposal to restructure the state’s tax system by reducing property-related taxes while expanding the sales tax to include more services.Supporters say the plan modernizes a tax code designed for a mid-20th century economy. Critics warn it could shift costs onto businesses and create new risks for school and local government funding. At the center of the debate is a bigger question: what should Michigan tax in a service-driven economy?The episode also covers several major Michigan news stories, including Governor Gretchen Whitmer securing federal disaster aid after severe storms, key takeaways from the Grand Rapids Policy Conference on regional vibrancy and talent attraction, and Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield’s proposal to raise wages for city employees.Plus, Haley Bennett, Director of Public Affairs at Truscott Rossman, joins the show to discuss her career in government, lessons from working for Governor Whitmer, and why policy challenges in northern Michigan increasingly affect the entire state.The episode closes with a Disagree Better moment from Grosse Pointe Public Schools, where the district recently appointed its first Black superintendent—highlighting how communities can move forward through thoughtful debate and civic engagement.Beyond Both Sides is a weekly conversation about Michigan politics, policy, and the issues shaping the state’s future—without the partisan spin.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered the final State of the State address of her tenure — outlining unfinished priorities and framing the legacy she hopes to leave behind.This week on Beyond Both Sides, Chris and Allie break down the biggest themes from Whitmer’s speech, including Michigan’s struggling literacy rankings, the push for housing reform, medical debt protections, and the growing debate over how the state should compete for economic investment.They also look at major headlines shaping Michigan right now: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s $246 million loss, the expansion of the Rx Kids program across the Upper Peninsula, and why national chains like Sheetz are betting on Michigan’s economy.If the 2026 governor’s race is already beginning, this episode explores the big policy questions that will define it — and what they mean for Michigan’s future.

Two new polls paint two very different pictures of Michigan’s 2026 governor’s race. One shows a tight three-way contest. Another shows a candidate pulling ahead. In a volatile electorate, perception can shift fast.But the bigger disconnect may not be in the horse race — it’s in how Michigan sees itself.Voters rank the state squarely in the middle nationally on income, education, and competitiveness. The data tells a different story. Reading scores rank near the bottom. Per capita income has fallen from 18th nationally in 2000 to 40th today. High-tech job growth and unemployment rankings trail most of the country.So why do Michiganders believe we’re average when the numbers say otherwise? And what happens to public urgency when voters don’t see a crisis?Chris and Allie dig into dueling polls, the education-to-income pipeline, the debate over data centers, tensions between local and federal authority, and whether Michigan is planning for the future — or reacting to it.Because reform only happens when reality is acknowledged.

This week on Beyond Both Sides, big ambitions collide with political reality.Michigan’s latest literacy scores show just how far the state has to go to get more students reading at grade level — even as Governor Gretchen Whitmer proposes a $625 million investment in early reading. At the same time, GOP gubernatorial candidate John James offers a sharply different approach centered on parental rights and school choice. Same challenge. Very different philosophies.Then we dive into the escalating controversy surrounding the nearly completed Gordie Howe International Bridge. What was meant to symbolize cross-border cooperation has become a flashpoint in national politics after President Trump threatened to block its opening. What would that mean for Michigan’s economy, trade, and leadership?Plus, a heartfelt tribute to Mike Bernard in our “Disagree Better” segment — and a reminder that how we engage each other matters just as much as the policies we debate.

A race that usually flies under the radar is suddenly front and center in Michigan politics.This week on Beyond Both Sides, we unpack why Michigan’s Secretary of State race has become one of the most consequential contests of the 2026 cycle. Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist’s entry has dramatically raised the stakes, putting new attention on an office that oversees elections, voting access, campaign finance, and public trust in outcomes.But that shift isn’t happening in isolation. We also break down:Why Michigan congressional candidates are raising serious money earlier than everHow questions about transparency and cryptocurrency investments are shaping a key Detroit primaryWhat rising home values in Detroit mean for trust in property assessments, affordability, and local government credibilityDifferent stories, one shared theme: who do people trust to run the institutions they depend on—and what happens when that trust is tested?In our deep dive, we explain why the Secretary of State role carries so much power in a swing state like Michigan, how the nominating convention process works, and what Gilchrist’s move means for both parties heading into a high-stakes election year.We close with a reminder that trust isn’t built only through politics, but through consistency and service—highlighted by a Detroit educator whose decades in the classroom earned a world record.Hosted by Chris Moyer and Allie Walker.From Truscott Rossman, this is Beyond Both Sides.

Michigan’s political future is already taking shape as the 2026 election cycle begins to stir. While most voters remain tuned out, campaigns are ramping up early — testing messages around the economy, education, energy, and public trust.We also look at policy decisions landing closer to home, from proposed classroom cell phone limits to the growing tension between clean energy goals and the rising power demands of data centers.In our deep dive, we examine how federal immigration enforcement is affecting Michigan one year into the current administration, as ICE arrests surge and debates over due process and accountability intensify. We close with a rare bipartisan moment focused on one simple idea: how we disagree still matters.

Big promises are easy. Delivering on them is harder.This week, Michigan finds itself caught between rising expectations and tightening constraints. State lawmakers are facing a billion-dollar revenue shortfall just as communities are asking for more investment, not less. Detroit is exploring new ways to fund essential services, only to run into constitutional limits and political reality. And long-running efforts to protect the Great Lakes from invasive carp are facing fresh uncertainty as federal decision-making slows.We also take a one-year look at how current federal policies are landing across Michigan. Some industries and households are seeing real gains, while others feel squeezed by higher costs, delayed projects, and uneven outcomes.This episode isn’t about whether leaders have ambition. It’s about whether the systems we rely on are built to turn that ambition into results — and who pays the price when they can’t.

Michigan takes center stage as power, politics, and industry collide. Chris Moyer and Allie Walker break down Lansing’s budget showdown, the Detroit Auto Show’s shift from spectacle to experience, and Microsoft’s controversial data center proposal. Plus, a deep dive into President Trump’s Detroit visit—and whether political theater helps or hurts Michigan’s economic story.

Chris Moyer, Allie Walker, and Ryan Gajewski share predictions on Michigan’s high-stakes 2026 elections, examining the open races for governor and U.S. Senate, the major candidates, and the policy questions that will shape the state’s future. New episodes each week from the team at Truscott Rossman. 

Chris Moyer and Allie Walker look back at the Michigan stories that defined 2025. They revisit the Northern Michigan ice storm that became the state’s largest natural disaster of the year, the tariff shock that disrupted the auto industry, and the early and crowded start to the 2026 governor’s race. They break down Detroit’s historic election of Mary Sheffield as the city’s first woman mayor, the long-debated road funding package that finally passed, and Ford’s late-year pullback from its EV plans. They also examine the growing scrutiny facing the MEDC and the uncertainty surrounding the future of Detroit’s Renaissance Center. New episodes each week from the team at Truscott Rossman. 

Chris Moyer and John Truscott break down the Michigan stories that may not dominate headlines but will shape the year ahead. They look at Detroit’s fast-moving mayoral transition, the Legislature’s end-of-year push in Lansing, and a new report on Michigan’s strengths — and vulnerabilities — in the auto and mobility sector. Chris and John also share a history-and-politics holiday gift guide, highlighting books and experiences that bring clarity to a noisy moment. Then Chris is joined by Jer Staes of Daily Detroit to explore how local media is changing, why newsletters and podcasts matter, and what Detroit stories people are missing. New episodes each week from the team at Truscott Rossman.

Chris Moyer and Allie Walker dig into three Michigan stories that all point to the same big question: who is steering the state’s future and who is paying for it. They look at the state’s fast-growing data center buildout and the local concerns around water, energy, and community impact. They break down the political heat on the MEDC as Quentin Messer Jr. defends Michigan’s strategy for attracting jobs and investment. And they walk through Sen. Aric Nesbitt’s argument that Michigan cannot “Make it in Michigan” without a major reset of K–12 education. In the deep dive, Chris and Allie explore the surprisingly human case for self-driving cars. They look at how autonomous vehicles could sharply reduce crashes, expand mobility for seniors and rural residents, and give Michigan a real advantage in the global race for smarter transportation. The episode wraps with a Disagree Better spotlight on Holland’s new Ice Park, a reminder that when communities dream big, good things can happen. New episodes each week from the team at Truscott Rossman. 

This week on Beyond Both Sides, Allie Walker and guest co-host Ryan Gajewski (filling in for Chris Moyer) dig into three Michigan headlines that all circle the same question: who has the power and who benefits? They break down Detroit’s next move on the long-blighted Packard Plant, a Detroit Free Press column on lobbyist perks and political optics, and a new Democratic push to tie tax incentives more tightly to job creation and retention.Then they dive deep into Michigan’s never-ending redistricting saga — how map-making really works, why “fair” maps may be mathematically impossible, and whether it’s time to blow up the whole system with ideas like proportional representation and even a state constitutional convention.The episode wraps with a look at the bipartisan wave of school cell phone bans, why Michigan lawmakers are circling the issue, and what it all means for kids, parents and classrooms.In this episode:Detroit’s Packard Plant and the politics of redevelopmentLobbyists, Lansing culture, and the power of opticsTax incentives, jobs, and who actually winsMichigan’s redistricting fight and a bold case for proportional representationThe growing push to limit smartphones in schoolsHit play to hear how disagreement can be sharp, funny, and still civil — even on the issues that quietly shape everything.

Chris Moyer and new co-host Allie Walker break down three major stories shaping Michigan’s future: an aging workforce that is slowing economic growth, a large share of young Detroiters who are thinking about leaving the city, and Michigan farmers facing collapsing exports linked to tariff fallout. Together, these trends show the growing gap between the state’s long-term goals and the daily pressures people are experiencing. In the deep dive, Chris and Allie offer practical ways to navigate political conversations at Thanksgiving. They explain how to set the right intentions, avoid persuasion traps, look for common ground, and keep discussions respectful even when viewpoints differ. The episode ends with a Disagree Better segment highlighting a Michigan Chronicle story on the success of Black-owned PR agencies. New episodes each week from the team at Truscott Rossman. 

Chris kicks things off with the big Michigan stories of the week, from a major shift in voter sentiment to Ford’s $1.2B new HQ and a potential development boom in Grand Rapids.Then Ryan and Allie dive into the passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney — his complicated legacy, his influence on today’s GOP, and how leaders evolve in public.Plus: a surprising moment of political humility from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene sparks a conversation about what it really takes to disagree better.Smart politics. Honest conversations. No spin. Tune in now.

John Truscott and Chris Moyer unpack the deal ending the nation’s longest government shutdown, who won, who lost, and what it means for Michigan. They also dig into the state’s worst monthly job losses of the year and ask whether the Michigan Economic Development Corporation can be saved or if reform is the only path forward. Then, a deep dive with Ryan Gajewski on how algorithms are shaping what we see, what we believe, and how we talk to each other, and what communicators can do about it. 

Chris Moyer and guest host Ryan Gajewski, Chief Strategy Officer at Truscott Rossman, unpack OpenAI’s massive Michigan investment, the future of economic development in the state, and key local election results. Plus, a deep dive into what Mary Sheffield’s historic election as Detroit’s first female mayor means for the direction of the city.

In this episode, Allie Walker and Ryan Gajewski welcome Ryan back to his old stomping grounds (yes, the red couch lives on). At the time, he was serving as Community & Partnerships Manager at The Dispatch, where he managed community engagement and podcast production. Before The Dispatch, Ryan spent nearly two years at NBC’s Meet the Press, researching interviews, crafting panel segments, and producing episodes of the Chuck Todd-cast. His path started with the John Carroll–Russert Fellowship at Meet the Press…and, even earlier, a formative internship right here at Truscott Rossman. 

In this episode of Beyond Both Sides, hosts John Truscott and Chris Moyer unpack Michigan’s biggest political stories — from a Lansing court fight and new road-funding taxes to a sweeping legislative transparency package reshaping ethics in government.Then, they’re joined by Allie Walker, President of Truscott Rossman and Crain’s Grand Rapids 40 Under 40 honoree, for a candid conversation about leadership, communication, and finding common ground in divided times.Allie shares her path from Capitol Hill to the C-suite, the lessons she’s learned about curiosity and collaboration, and why authenticity is key to leading in today’s fast-changing media landscape.🎧 Tune in for real talk on politics, purpose, and public affairs — from three voices shaping Michigan’s communications conversation.

In this episode of My First Gig, host Ryan Gajewski and co-host Allie Walker sit down with Michelle, who at the time of recording served as Senior Vice President of Market Growth & Business Attraction at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Since then, Michelle has been promoted to the role of Chief Communications & Attraction Officer, overseeing business attraction and market growth in her expanded capacity at the organization. 

Beyond Both Sides Smart. Civil. Real. Hosted by John Truscott and Chris Moyer, two trusted political communicators known for their work in government and public affairs, Beyond Both Sides goes deeper than partisan headlines to explore why the issues shaping Michigan and the nation really matter. Each episode blends sharp analysis, thoughtful disagreement, and practical insight on politics, policy, and communication in the era of the attention economy. From the latest developments in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and communities across Michigan to the national movements reshaping civic discourse, Beyond Both Sides delivers context, clarity, and conversation that respects every listener’s intelligence.

Hosts Ryan Gajewski and Allie Walker sit down with leadership advisor and author Ken Bogard to dig into the power—and limits—of honesty at work. From managing a dine‑in Pizza Hut at 17 to turning around underperforming restaurants and guiding leadership teams today, Ken’s through‑line is simple: tell the truth, deliver it with love, and never lose who you are.

Before leading one of West Michigan’s premier leadership programs, Megan Rydecki got her start as assistant to the city manager in Wyoming, Michigan — a role that taught her how proximity, curiosity, and consistency can shape a career. In our latest episode, Megan joins Allie Walker and Ryan Gajewski to talk about:  The value of “support” roles early in your career  Why mid-sized cities are perfect for people who want to make an impact  The leadership lessons that still guide her today Her story is a reminder that leadership doesn’t start with a title — it starts with showing up and paying attention. 

If you’ve spent any time around Grand Rapids’ food and beverage scene, you’ve probably felt the gravitational pull of City Built Brewing—part neighborhood hangout, part lab for creativity, and fully committed to community. In this episode of My 1st Gig, hosts Ryan Gajewski and Allie Walker sit down at City Built with owner Ed Collazo to trace the winding path that led him here—and the choices (and hard lessons) that keep him grounded. Like many of our guests, Ed’s first gig wasn’t glamorous. At 13, he was up before sunrise, riding his bike six miles to a muck farm to pull weeds for $3.85 an hour. The work was humbling—and formative. “I don’t think anyone works harder than me,” he says now, crediting family role models and those early mornings for a deep, blue-collar ethic he still carries. 

Learn how Katleyn grew from a part-time assistant job in Chicago politics to running statewide campaigns. Katelyn talks about how she "kind of liked" checking petition signatures in her early days of political consulting, how she got a former pawnbroker elected Lt. Governor of Illinois, and why work-life balance was important in her decision to leave that role.

Andy Johnston went from scrubbing dishes at MSU to shaping policy at the Grand Rapids Chamber. Hear how small jobs, strong relationships, and seizing opportunities shaped his path to leadership. 

When John VanderHaagen took his first post-college job, he didn’t expect to be microwaving hot dogs for a mascot to shoot into the crowd. But as a Ticket Sales Account Executive for the Grand Rapids Griffins and Grand Rapids Rampage, John quickly learned that a job in minor league sports means wearing a lot of hats—and sometimes, dodging flying hot dogs.