MI PEOPLE is a laid-back podcast about the people doing cool things in Michigan—from business owners and Artists to local characters you just need to meet. Hosted by Mike Lamentola of Michigan Media House, it’s part conversation, part inspiration, and never boring. No forced hustle talk. No awkward small talk. Just real chats with real people doing real things around here.
What if ancient texts and modern psychology are pointing to the same truth? In Episode 19 of the MI PEOPLE Podcast, the conversation goes deep into Gnosticism, Carl Jung, Jordan Peterson, and the timeless questions surrounding consciousness, meaning, and personal transformation. Justin Jedele brings a rare blend of philosophical curiosity and grounded authenticity to the mic. The discussion moves through the Nag Hammadi texts, Neil Douglas-Klotz's Aramaic translations of Jesus' teachings, an...
30 Mar 2026
#018 | Devan Rucker - Monroe county News and The Development Group - Monroe, MI
Devan Rucker shares how he built real momentum in Monroe County by lifting up local voices and running for mayor using only social media. If you care about community, grassroots politics, or creating authentic Michigan content, you'll want to subscribe! In this episode, Devan Rucker (digital marketing professional, Politicians Popup Podcast host) reveals why collaboration trumps competition, how creators are changing the game by working together, and why local elections matter more than you ...
12 Mar 2026
#017 | Rick Enrico Morrone — DJ, Video Producer, Actor, Musician & Teacher - Dearborn, MI
Rick Enrico Morrone is a media producer, video editor, DJ/MC, on-camera talent, musician, and educator based in Dearborn, Michigan. In this episode of the MI PEOPLE Podcast, we dive into the world of a true creative polymath—someone who doesn't just wear multiple hats, but wears them all exceptionally well. The Multi-Hyphenate Creative Rick's career is a masterclass in versatility. From directing and editing national advertising campaigns to spinning records at weddings, performing as a bass...
24 Feb 2026
#016 | Comedian Erich Laux with Tree Town Comedy Festival – Ann Arbor, MI
Erich Laux is a comedian and organizer of the Tree Town Comedy Festival in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In this episode, he shares his passion for comedy, the vision behind the festival, and how Ann Arbor has become a thriving hub for stand-up comedy and creative performers. Erich's journey into comedy and event organization reflects a deep commitment to fostering local talent and creating spaces where comedians can thrive. The Tree Town Comedy Festival represents more than just a series of shows—it...
11 Feb 2026
#015 | Discussing Grass Lake Times with Chris Kent – Grass Lake, MI
Chris Kent is a photographer and content creator passionate about capturing local sports and community stories. He's collaborating with Mike Lamentola to launch "Grass Lake Times," a platform dedicated to celebrating the athletes, events, and moments that matter in Grass Lake. In this episode, Chris shares his journey into photography, his vision for community-focused content, and how he's building something meaningful in his hometown. You'll discover the power of local storytelling, the impo...
26 Jan 2026
#014 | Travis Terns, Restaurant Manager and Thinker – Ann Arbor, MI
Travis Terns joins the MI PEOPLE Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation that blends philosophy, personal experience, and grounded Midwest perspective. Based in Ypsilanti and managing a restaurant in Ann Arbor, this episode moves beyond surface-level small talk and dives into how people form meaning, find drive, and stay connected in a world that often feels divided. The conversation explores the relationship between science and spirituality, the value of open discourse, and why curiosity ma...
12 Jan 2026
#013 | Tony Lamentola, Cousin – Belleville, MI
Tony Lamentola joins Mike for the first episode of 2026, marking exactly one year since his last appearance on the MI People Podcast. Origin Story / Backstory Tony and Mike share a long history of podcasting together, a bond rooted in family and a shared passion for deep conversation. The conversation centers on the rapid advancement of AI and its impact on the "human story." Tony argues that while AI can mimic perfection, it lacks the "connection to source" that defines human intuiti...
29 Sept 2025
#012 | Aaron Cole, App Developer & Entrepreneur – Grass Lake, MI
Aaron Cole is an entrepreneur and app developer from Grass Lake, Michigan. He recently launched "Together," a hyper-local gig economy app that connects neighbors with neighbors for tasks and services. Aaron's journey began during a two-month trip to New Zealand and Australia with his family, where the pristine communities inspired him to create something that could bring that same community spirit to Michigan. What started as an idea for a recycling pickup service evolved into a comprehensive...
16 Jun 2025
MIPPL #011 | Chuck and Brenda Marshall with Life in Michigan
Chuck and Brenda Marshall share their journey of creating Life in Michigan, a platform showcasing the state's beer, music, trails, and hidden gems, in an interview with Mike.
28 May 2025
MIPPL #010 | Andy Beningo Michigan Comedian
Comedian Andy Beningo discusses his evolution from Central Michigan University open mics to global performances and balancing family life with touring, in an interview with Mike, offering insights into the life of a stand-up comedian.
28 Apr 2025
MIPPL #009 | Stelios Stylianou founder of the Down River News Network
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 9 of the MI PEOPLE Podcast! 🎙️ This week, Mike catches up with Stelios Stylianou, founder of the Down River News Network. Stelios shares how his passion for filmmaking, music, and community storytelling led him to create a fast-growing local media platform connecting and uplifting the Downriver Michigan area. 🎥 Highlights from this episode: How Stelios turned a love for video and creativity into a platform that celebrates local people, businesses, and events.The ch...
14 Apr 2025
MIPPL EP#008 | Eze Enriquez Owner of Eze Creative - Saline, MI
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 8 of the MI PEOPLE Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, Mike sits down with Eze Enriquez—creative entrepreneur, visual storyteller, and founder of Eze Creative. Eze shares his journey from early creative endeavors to establishing a successful creative agency, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way. Eze delves into the importance of authenticity in branding, the power of storytelling in marketing, and how he leverages his creative skills to help businesses connect...
31 Mar 2025
MIPPL #007 | Brent Wyant Realtor Grass Lake, MI
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 7 of the MI PEOPLE Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, Mike sits down with Blake Wyant, a Grass Lake local, real estate dynamo, and former restaurant industry veteran. Blake shares his fascinating journey—from flipping burgers at 18 to becoming a head chef, and now thriving as a top real estate agent with Reinhart Realtors, closing millions in sales across Michigan. Blake’s story is one of grit, adaptability, and community spirit. Whether he’s coaching little league, serving on...
17 Mar 2025
MIPPL #006 | Marla Moore Owner of The Ann Arbor Music Academy in Ann Arbor, MI
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 6 of the MI PEOPLE Podcast! 🎙️ This episode is extra special because Mike sits down with Marla Moore, the owner of Ann Arbor Music Academy—and also his amazingly talented wife. Marla shares what it takes to run a thriving music school, how she’s built a strong community of students and instructors, and why helping others find their voice is her life’s work. With over 100 students walking through the doors every week, Ann Arbor Music Academy has become a hub for creativit...
3 Mar 2025
MIPPL #005 | Weston Barnes Founder of MR. MOCKS Hammocks in Chelsea, MI
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 5 of the MI PEOPLE Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, Mike sits down with Weston Barnes, owner of Mr. MOCKS, a Michigan-based company making high-quality hammocks, bug nets, and outdoor gear. Weston shares the story of how he started sewing hammocks as a teenager, turned his passion into a business, and now supplies collage students, campers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts with top-tier gear. 🏕️ Highlights from this Episode: How a DIY hammock project led to the creation ...
17 Feb 2025
MI PEOPE EP#004 | Chad Houghton Owner of UGQ Outdoor in Jackson, MI
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 4 of the MI PEOPLE Podcast! 🎙️ This week, Mike sits down with Chad Houghton, owner of UGQ Outdoor, a Jackson, Michigan-based company crafting some of the best outdoor gear on the market. From backpackers and hammock campers to tent campers and carside adventurers, UGQ’s quilts and gear help people stay warm and comfortable in the wild. Chad shares insights on running and growing a business in a niche industry while staying true to quality and innovation. 🌲 Highlights fro...
4 Feb 2025
MIPPL #003 | Steve Caro Owner of Grass Lake Yurt Co in Grass Lake Michigan
In this episode, Mike sits down with Steve Caro, the owner of Great Lakes Yurt Co., a Grass Lake-based business crafting and shipping handcrafted yurts across the country. Steve shares how a simple carpentry project turned into a thriving business and why more people are choosing yurts for off-grid living, Airbnbs, and unique homes. 🌲 Topics Covered: How Steve got into building yurts and grew his companyThe rise of yurts in the housing and travel industriesChallenges of running a manufacturin...
20 Jan 2025
MIPPL #002 | Clint Laster Owner of Flawless Auto Finish in Livonia Michigan
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 2 of the MI PEOPLE Podcast! 🎙️This week, Mike catches up with Clint Laster, owner of Flawless Auto Finish in Livonia, Michigan. From his early days in the auto body industry to becoming a business owner and fitness enthusiast, Clint shares his journey of balancing entrepreneurship with personal growth.💪 Highlights from this episode:How Clint’s fitness journey transformed his focus, discipline, and energy as a business owner.The challenges of running a business after setb...
6 Jan 2025
MIPPL #001 | Tony Lamentola from Taylor, MI: AI, UFOs, and Why Relationships Still Matter
Tony Lamentola, a creative entrepreneur from Taylor, MI, discusses how artificial intelligence intersects with human relationships, highlighting the importance of empathy and connection in a rapidly changing world.
Who has been a guest on MI PEOPLE
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Chuck Marshall
Brenda Marshall
Andy Beningo
Tony Lamentola
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
89,675
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 32 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
33
Social presence
0
YouTube
76
Engagement
0
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Guest appearances
Books guests
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