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Episode Title: From Cleaning Homes to Changing the Industry with Carrie Everett, Founder of Safiee

What happens when an everyday challenge turns into a groundbreaking innovation?

In this episode of Entrepreneur Like ME, Courtney Garrett sits down with Carrie Everett, founder and inventor of Safiee—a first-of-its-kind cleaning product created from years of hands-on experience as a professional house cleaner.

Carrie's journey is anything but ordinary. Without a formal business education, she transformed an idea born on the job into a patent-pending product, navigating trademarks, manufacturing, and product development with determination and the support of Michigan's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Along the way, she was recognized as the 2025 Innovator of the Year by the Midland Business Alliance.

But this conversation goes beyond entrepreneurship. Carrie opens up about motherhood, recovery, resilience, and the courage to believe in herself when the odds seemed stacked against her. Her story is a powerful reminder that innovation can come from everyday experiences—and that your past doesn't define your future.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, inventor, dreamer, or someone waiting for the right time to take the first step, this episode will leave you inspired to trust your ideas and keep moving forward.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• How Safiee was inspired by a real-world problem
• The journey from cleaning homes to becoming an award-winning inventor
• Lessons learned while navigating patents, trademarks, and manufacturing
• The power of community resources and asking for help
• Why resilience may be an entrepreneur's greatest superpower

Connect with Carrie Everett
🌐 www.safiee.com

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a reminder that big dreams often begin with one simple idea.

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Tyler Harlan, insurance agent and member of The Power Link, to talk about one of the most valuable tools an entrepreneur can have—relationships.

Tyler shares why networking is about much more than exchanging business cards. It's about building trust, creating meaningful connections, and surrounding yourself with people who genuinely want to see your business succeed.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What "Networking Done Right" really means
• How referral-based relationships help businesses grow
• Common networking mistakes entrepreneurs make
• Why protecting your business with the right insurance matters
• The value of community when building a business

Whether you're launching a new business or looking to grow your network, this episode is full of practical advice that reminds us success isn't built alone.

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us Fan Mail

Season 3, Episode 4: Ann Sigsby – Curiosity, Connection & Supporting Small Business

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Ann Sigsby, a lifelong learner, connector, and champion for small businesses.

With a background that spans animal agriculture, entrepreneurship in holistic wellness, and 25 years as a Senior Analyst with AIM Targeted Intelligence, Ann shares how curiosity, data, and relationships help entrepreneurs make smarter decisions.

This conversation dives into the power of supporting small businesses, trusting both instinct and insight, and why careers don’t always follow a straight line.

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Kelsey Snyder, Executive Director of Lead, to talk about leadership, technology, and building systems that create real community impact.

After 12 years working in the tech industry and moving forward with leading a global team, Kelsey felt called to step into work that created a more direct impact in her own community. That calling led her to Lead, where she helped launch the Lead Within online platform and build the infrastructure that now supports youth and families across Michigan.

If you care about community, growth, and building something that lasts — this episode is for you.

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Angie Evans, a familiar voice on 95.3 CFX and a true connector in the Mount Pleasant community.

Angie shares her journey from Detroit radio to building a life and platform rooted in local impact. From broadcasting and integrated marketing to deep nonprofit involvement, this conversation explores how using your voice with intention can uplift businesses, strengthen communities, and create meaningful change.

We talk about:

• The evolution from being “on the mic” to being a community advocate
• Helping local businesses tell their stories through radio and marketing
• The power of showing up consistently for people and causes
• Balancing leadership, service, and family

This episode is a reminder that impact doesn’t always come from a title — sometimes it comes from simply using your voice to serve.

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us Fan Mail

Season 3 Premiere: Eugene Seals Jr. – Leadership, Partnership & The Power of the Chamber

Season 3 of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast kicks off with a heavy hitter. Courtney sits down with Eugene Seals Jr., President & CEO of the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce, for a powerful conversation about leadership, connection, and community impact.

In this episode, Eugene shares his vision and strategic plan for the Chamber, why networking and partnerships are essential to a thriving business ecosystem, and how the Chamber is redefining what it means to show up for businesses across the region.

We also dive into the Chamber’s bold message “The Experience is the Difference” and what that means for entrepreneurs, employers, and community leaders looking to grow with intention.

If you care about economic growth, collaboration, and building something bigger than yourself, this conversation sets the tone for all of Season 3.

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us Fan Mail

Season 2, Episode 13: Michael Wooley – Building Bridges Through Immigration Law

In this episode of Entrepreneur Like Me, Courtney talks with Michael Wooley, Immigration Attorney at Varnum LLP, about how immigration law connects global talent, business growth, and community.

With over 30 years of experience, Michael helps companies across healthcare, education, and manufacturing navigate visa sponsorship and workforce challenges. He also shares how his Peace Corps service in Ecuador shaped his perspective and commitment to bridging opportunity through law.

Tune in for practical insights on hiring global talent, supporting families through immigration, and the power of service-driven leadership.

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us Fan Mail

Season 2, Episode 12: Protecting Your Ideas with Kristen Pursley, President of Dobrusin Law

In this episode, we sit down with Kristen Pursley, President of Dobrusin IP Law, a women-owned intellectual property boutique firm based in Pontiac, Michigan. Kristen specializes in helping innovators, founders, and growing companies protect what they create — from patents and trademarks to copyright strategy and tech transfer guidance.

We talk about:

• Why every business — no matter the size — should think about intellectual property early
• The key differences between patents, trademarks, and copyrights (in plain language)
• Common mistakes entrepreneurs make when DIY-ing IP (and how to avoid them)
• How strong IP strategy can make you more attractive to angel and venture investors
• Practical, budget-friendly steps founders can take right now to start protecting their work

Whether you're launching your first product, scaling a startup, or preparing to pitch investors — this conversation will help you think smarter about protecting your value and your vision.

#EntrepreneurLikeMe #DobrusinLaw #KristenPursley #IntellectualProperty #ProtectYourIdeas #SmallBusinessSupport #GreatLakesBay

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!