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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 a text

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 a text

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!

Send us a text

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 a text

Marcus Martin – Building Communities Through Access to Capital

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Marcus Martin, Community Development Manager at Lake Trust Credit Union, to talk about how financial institutions can do more than just provide banking—they can transform lives and fuel entrepreneurship.

Marcus shares insights on:

• The importance of financial inclusion for small business owners
• Programs and lending resources Lake Trust offers entrepreneurs
• Common barriers to accessing capital—and how to overcome them
• Why building trust and relationships matters as much as funding
• How partnerships with community organizations help create long-term impact

With years of experience bridging finance and community development, Marcus brings practical tips and an inspiring perspective for entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale.

🎧 Tune in for a conversation about capital, community, and the power of access.

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 a text

Season 2, Episode 9: Andrew Lay – Outsmarting Google & Elevating Your Marketing

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, we sit down with Andrew Lay, Founder & Owner of Hierographx—a full-service digital agency driven by innovation and problem solving. With over 25 years in digital marketing and more than a decade as a local business owner, Andrew brings proven strategies to help entrepreneurs show up, get found, and grow.

We talk practical tips for entrepreneurs just getting started, easy ways to elevate your marketing, and how to finally understand what drives local rankings on Google. Andrew also shares his free guide at outsmartgoogle.com
—breaking down the exact steps businesses can take to land in the Google Map Pack and turn searches into sales.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated about not showing up online, this episode is packed with insights you can start applying today.

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 a text

Season 2, Episode 8: Kisha Smith – Fueling Small Business in Saginaw

In this episode of The Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, we’re highlighting the local support systems powering entrepreneurship in Saginaw, Michigan.

Courtney sits down with Kisha Smith, Coordinator at the Saginaw Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), to talk about how SEDC is helping small businesses thrive through accessible micro and macro lending programs.

Kisha breaks down what it takes to apply, why a business plan and financial statements are key, and how SEDC is showing up for entrepreneurs beyond just funding—like at the upcoming Small Business Expo on August 28th, which will feature food trucks, entertainment, and mini-grant opportunities.

🎧 Tune in and learn how Saginaw is creating space for small businesses to grow and win.
👉 www.cmurc.com/elmpodcast

#EntrepreneurLikeMe #SaginawEntrepreneurs #SEDC #SmallBusinessSupport #GreatLakesBayRegion #BusinessResources

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 a text

Season 2, Episode 7: Christiana Malacara – Purpose, Power & Platform

We’re back and better than ever with an inspiring episode featuring Christiana Malacara, founder of That’s What She Said Radio Show and 3rd Eye Marketing.

Christiana is a powerful voice in the Great Lakes Bay Region—connecting communities, empowering women, and elevating the Latino voice through media, networking, and bold authenticity.

In this episode, she shares how discipline today creates freedom tomorrow, and why showing up, even when it’s hard, matters most. Christiana breaks down what it means to build your platform with purpose and reminds us all that representation is power.

🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite streaming platform.
Learn more: www.cmurc.com/elmpodcast

#EntrepreneurLikeMe #ChristianaMalacara #3rdEyeMarketing #ThatsWhatSheSaid #LatinaLeader #GreatLakesBayRegion #InclusiveEntrepreneurship

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!