Wayne County Community College District - Critical Conversations Podcast

Tune in to our latest episode featuring Justin Onwenu, a fourth-generation Detroiter, Michigan attorney, and the City of Detroit’s first Director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity. Hear his compelling perspectives on empowering local entrepreneurs, strengthening community impact, and expanding opportunities for economic growth and innovation across Detroit. Discover how his leadership is shaping the city’s future and supporting the next generation of business leaders.

In this episode of WCCCD’s Critical Conversations Podcast, we welcome Ray Lozano, Executive Director of the Mexicantown Community Development Corporation. Join us as he shares valuable insights into the organization’s efforts to drive economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and support community development in Detroit’s vibrant Mexicantown.

Join us for another exciting episode with guest Mark J. Heppner, President and CEO of Ford House, who shares the fascinating history and cultural importance of the Edsel and Eleanor Ford Estate, a National Historic Landmark in Grosse Pointe Shores. Discover exciting updates on upcoming programs, sustainability efforts, and Ford House’s commitment to diversity, equity, and accessibility.

Tune into to our latest podcast featuring Dr. John Hartig, Visiting Scholar at the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research at the University of Windsor in Canada. Dr. Hartig shares his expert insights on the initiatives to maintain the cleanliness of the Great Lakes, explores strategies for fostering environmental sustainability, and discusses his acclaimed book, Waterfront Porch.

Listeners can learn about the inspiring career journey of Jennyfer Crawford-Williams, founder and CEO of "Ask Jennyfer," in our latest podcast episode. Gain insights into her path to success as an entrepreneur and her mission to empower local businesses. Tune in for valuable advice and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.

Our latest podcast features Wendy Ekua (W.E.) Da’Cruz. In addition to being the founder and CEO of the Mushroom Angel Company, she is widely recognized as The Digital Diplomat™ for her efforts in promoting digitalization to help drive economic development. W.E. shares her remarkable career journey and offers listeners tips on how to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

Join us for another exciting episode with special guest Joseph Gruber who serves as the Community Economic Development Director for the City of Wyandotte. Gain valuable insight into Wyandotte’s real estate development, infrastructure, and ongoing public improvement projects.

In this podcast, guest Mary Bohling, District 12 Director of the Michigan State University (MSU) Extension, shares information about the MSU Extension and resources such as the Downriver Linked Greenways and the Michigan Sea Grant. MSU Extension, the community outreach arm of the university, helps Michigan communities, families, individuals and businesses transform and grow through locally-based education.

Tune into our latest podcast featuring Ron Hinrichs, president and CEO of the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber (SWRC), to learn about SWRC initiatives, business networking opportunities and how the organization continues to positively impact the region

Join host Ed Clemente and Christopher Girdwood, executive director of the Detroit Region’s Aerotropolis, to learn about the Aerotropolis and how it impacts our region’s economic development.

Join host Ed Clemente and Christopher Girdwood, executive director of the Detroit Region’s Aerotropolis, to learn about the Aerotropolis and how it impacts our region’s economic development.

In this podcast, Jim Perry, executive director of the Downriver Community Conference (DCC), shares information about the DCC's programs, it's history and community partnerships.