LARA Living Room

In honor of Public Service Recognition Week, we’re sitting down with COO Courtney Pendleton to talk about what public service really means, why it matters, and how LARA’s work impacts people across Michigan every day.https://2026.ourpublicservice.org/public-service-recognition-week#downloads

Skilled trades keep Michigan running. Learn how LARA supports these careers through licensing, public safety, and the MI Trades Partnership, and why now is the time to join the trades.

Learn how the Michigan Tax Tribunal resolves tax disputes and what residents and businesses should know about the appeal process.

In this episode, we explore the important role customer service teams play across LARA and how they help shape the public’s experience from the very first call. From answering questions to guiding callers through complex processes, these teams provide clear, professional, and empathetic support every day.We also touch on efforts like the Phone Guidelines Workgroup, which are helping strengthen consistency, training, and resources for staff serving on the front lines.

What does recruitment and retention really look like at LARA? In this episode, we spotlight the Regulatory Effectiveness Office (REO) and the work happening behind the scenes to build, support, and retain a strong workforce. Hear how REO is making an impact across Team LARA.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-ho-151ab4107/ 

Legal doesn’t have to mean complicated. In this episode, Host Anastasha chats with Nick, Director of LARA’s Legal Affairs Office (LAO), about how legal expertise supports collaboration, good decision making, and smart regulation. 

LARA’s impact is often felt in the moments people don’t think twice about. From inspections to licensing, this episode explores how behind-the-scenes work helps keep Michiganders safe and supported.

Impact is more than a word at LARA. This episode sets the tone for Season Two, introducing LARA’s 2026 Word of the Year and sharing how storytelling will help highlight the real-life difference LARA’s work makes across Michigan.

Director Marlon Brown reflects on the future of LARA communications, the power of storytelling, “One LARA” culture, and the 2026 initiatives driving innovation and engagement.

We’re joined by Director Marlon Brown to explore 2026 regulatory trends, leadership transitions, tech-driven improvements, and insights from the Cutting Red Tape report shaping LARA’s future.

In this episode, Director Claire Patterson shares how Michigan’s Cannabis Reference Laboratory strengthens cannabis testing, recalls, and consumer protection. Setting national standards for safe, trusted products.

Executive Director Suzanne Sonneborn explains MOAHR’s mission as a Type 1 agency: fair hearings, effective rulemaking, and serving the people of Michigan.https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/moahr

Learn how LARA processes FOIA requests, why public access to records matters, and how transparency supports trust in state government.

Learn how professional licensing works in Michigan and why it matters. Deputy Director Bryan Modelski from the Bureau of Professional Licensing explains the process, common mistakes, recent changes, and where to find help.BPL Bureau website - https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bplProfessional Licensing Resources - https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bpl/resourcesBPL Contact - https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bpl/resources/contact-the-bureau-of-professional-licensing

Michigan State Fire Marshal Tom Hughes discusses fire safety, the role of BFS, and efforts to protect Michiganders every day. BFS Website: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bfsMI Prevention Website:– https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bfs/miprevention 

Discover how the Bureau of Community and Health Systems and the Bureau of Survey and Certification protect Michigan’s health through licensing, certifications, and inspections.

Navigate Michigan’s business startup process with expert advice on filing, compliance, and scam prevention.www.michigan.gov/corpentitysearchState of Michigan Entrepreneurs-Guide

Leaders from the CRA and MLCC discuss how they regulate cannabis and liquor to ensure compliance, foster industry growth, and protect the public.

Explore Michigan’s Cutting Red Tape Report, revealing how LARA is working to reduce licensing barriers, simplify regulations, and help businesses thrive.View the Cutting Red Tape Report and the Press Release.

Hear from employees nominated by their peers in the 2024 LARA Recognition Awards as they share stories about their work and experiences.

We break down how laws become rules, who enforces them, and how LARA makes sure they protect the public.Administrative Rulemaking System (ARS) – https://ars.apps.lara.state.mi.us/

In this episode of the LARA Living Room, we sit down with LARA Director Marlon Brown to discuss his background and his path to becoming the Director of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. 

In this kickoff episode, LARA Director Marlon Brown introduces the podcast, explains LARA’s mission, and shares what listeners can expect from future episodes.