Mission Control Podcast

Welcome back to Mission Control, the podcast where nonprofit leaders and community change-makers share their stories, challenges, and wins.In this episode, host Paul Schmidt, owner of UnoDeuce Multimedia, sits down with Laurie Baumer, President and CEO of the Community Foundation in Greater Lansing. Laurie shares her journey from advertising and government work to leading one of mid-Michigan’s most impactful organizations.She discusses the Foundation’s mission to build vibrant communities across Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties, and how bold placemaking projects like Rotary Park and Fish Ladder Music Park transformed Lansing’s riverfront. Laurie also reflects on her early fundraising experiences, her leadership through the pandemic, and how collaboration and trust have fueled long-term community impact.Whether you’re in the nonprofit sector or simply inspired by local leadership, Laurie’s story is full of insight and heart.Enjoyed the episode?Learn more about Laurie and the work of the Community Foundation at ⁠ourcommunity.org⁠.Follow Community Foundation’s latest initiatives on social media — Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube — and get inspired by how local philanthropy is shaping the future of mid-Michigan.Subscribe to Mission Control on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for more powerful stories.Drop your guest suggestions or feedback at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com.Thanks for tuning in — we’ll see you next time in the Control Center.

IntroductionWelcome back to Mission Control, the podcast where host Paul J. Schmidt takes listeners behind the scenes of organizations and leaders driving change in their communities. This episode dives into the story of Jessica Johns, co-founder and executive director of Storehouse for Community Resources. This nonprofit has quietly transformed the way Michigan organizations access essential goods.From its humble beginnings—operating with zero employees and a borrowed pallet jack—Storehouse has grown into a statewide powerhouse, serving over half of Michigan’s counties. Think of it as “Feeding America for durable goods”: connecting surplus household items, personal care products, and more from retailers to nonprofits, schools, and other community organizations.Jessica’s journey is a story of vision, faith, and persistence. Growing up in a large family with limited resources, she learned firsthand the impact of community support. Her passion for education and service led her to identify a simple but powerful truth: nonprofits needed more than food to help those in need—they needed access to household goods, supplies, and essentials that often go unnoticed but make a lasting difference in people’s lives.In this episode, Paul and Jessica explore:How Storehouse discovered its niche and grew its operationsThe logistics behind running a 35,000-square-foot warehouse for nonprofitsThe pivotal role of education, technology, and partnershipsLessons learned scaling a nonprofit in a competitive landscapeListeners will leave inspired, with practical insights, and with a deep appreciation for what it takes to turn a vision into lasting community impact.Guest InformationJessica Johns – Executive Director & Co-founder, Storehouse for Community ResourcesLocation: Grand Rapids, MichiganBackground: Education, community outreach, nonprofit leadershipKnown For: Hands-on approach, innovative solutions, scaling operations from scratchConnect with Jessica:LinkedIn: Jessica JohnsStorehouse MI WebsiteJessica’s leadership style combines practical action with strategic vision, embodying the philosophy that lasting change comes from both boots-on-the-ground effort and thoughtful planning. From personally handling shipments to overseeing technology development, Jessica has built a culture where every team member, volunteer, and partner feels essential to the mission.Curious about Storehouse or want to support their mission? Here’s how:Learn More & Volunteer: Visit storehousemi.org to see current needs and volunteer opportunities.Partnership & Giving: Connect with Storehouse on Facebook or LinkedIn.Share the Story: Invite friends to tour the Storehouse facility—experience community impact in action.Subscribe to Mission Control: Follow on your favorite podcast platform for more stories of leaders transforming communities.Know a nonprofit leader with an inspiring story? Email missioncontrol@unodeuce.com.

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of Mission Control, the podcast where executive directors and nonprofit leaders share their stories, challenges, and every little win along the way. In this episode, host Paul Schmidt, owner and creative video strategist for Introduce Multimedia, sits down with Glenn Wilson, the founder, president, and CEO of Communities First Incorporated.The chat is warm, friendly, and full of real talk about what it takes to start and grow a nonprofit. Glenn opens up about his journey of giving back to Flint, Michigan, the pivotal moments that shaped his purpose, and how passion drives his work every single day. From navigating the rough waters after the recession to scaling a team across multiple states, this conversation dives deep into leadership, team building, storytelling, and the importance of staying mission-driven while thinking like an entrepreneur.So, whether you're in the nonprofit world, leading a community group, or just curious about what makes someone tick, there’s a ton here to learn from Glenn’s experience and practical advice.Enjoyed the episode?Visit communitiesfirstinc.org to learn more about Glenn and Communities First Incorporated.Check out their events, programs, and latest updates on social media channels (YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram).Listen to the "No Name Podcast" on Spotify, Amazon, and Apple for more stories about community transformation.Subscribe to Mission Control on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.Drop your guest suggestions or feedback at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com.Thanks for listening—see you next time in the Control Center!

In this episode, host Paul J. Schmidt sits down with Beth Read, founder and Executive Director of TWIGS, a nonprofit dedicated to easing the everyday burdens of cancer patients and their families.Inspired by her mother’s cancer journey, Beth started TWIGS to provide practical support—rides, housekeeping, yard care, and more—so families can focus on healing and time together. She shares the moving origin of the organization’s name, the challenges of launching during the pandemic, and the lessons she’s learned as a nonprofit leader.Beth opens up about:Building a volunteer-driven nonprofit from scratchOvercoming the hurdles of fundraising and asking for helpBalancing leadership, business, and family lifeThe importance of collaboration with other community organizationsHow nearly TWIGS has already supported 100 familiesNotable Quotes:“Our mission at TWIGS is to lift everyday burdens from cancer patients and their families so they can concentrate on healing and spending time with loved ones.”“Volunteers make it all happen—now they’re fighting over shifts, it’s kind of beautiful.”Resources & Links:TWIGS: www.twiginc.orgMission Control Podcast: missioncontrolintuce.comLocal partners: Community Foundation, Davies Project, Helping Women PeriodWrap Up:This heartfelt conversation reminds us that small acts of service can spark significant change. To get involved with TWIGS—whether as a volunteer, donor, or partner—visit their website. And don’t forget to subscribe to Mission Control for more inspiring nonprofit stories.

Welcome to another episode of Mission Control, the go-to podcast for stories and insights from executive directors and nonprofit leaders who are making big waves in their communities. Hosted by Paul Schmidt from Introduced Multimedia, this show is all about honest conversations, learning from the journey, and highlighting the wins and challenges along the way.In this episode, Paul sits down with Casey Cooper, Assistant Director at the Tri-County Office on Aging (TCOA). Casey has been at TCOA for over eight years, advancing from a fundraising and volunteer specialist to the second-in-command. The conversation dives into what it means to serve the aging population, how TCOA makes a difference for older adults and caregivers in the Tri-County area, and why supportive communities for seniors are so critical.You will hear about Casey’s own journey into nonprofit work, the importance of person-centered service, how fundraising roots help with community engagement, and the evolving needs and perceptions of the population TCOA serves. There’s also an honest look at how organizations like TCOA adapted during the pandemic—plus some fun, lighter moments showing the person behind the nonprofit leader.If you enjoyed this episode or learned something new about aging, community support, or nonprofit leadership, let us know!Hit subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode of Mission Control.Share this episode with friends or colleagues who work in nonprofits, elder care, or anyone who wants to learn how good community work gets done.Please take a moment to leave a review to help us spread the word and keep these conversations going.Connect with TCOA—whether you’re looking for services, want to volunteer, or just want more info:Website: tcoa.orgPhone: 517-887-1440Follow TCOA on Facebook and social mediaAnd, if you know someone whose nonprofit journey should be featured on Mission Control, email the team at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com

IntroductionWelcome back to another lively episode of Mission Control, the podcast that dives into the stories and lessons from executive directors and nonprofit leaders making waves in their communities. Hosted by Paul Schmidt, owner and creative video strategist for Introduced Multimedia, Mission Control brings real talk and authentic journeys to anyone interested in the heart and hustle behind community impact.This week, Paul sits down with Kwaku Osei, the Executive Director of the Love Building in Detroit—a unique hub for social justice and creative collaboration that's home to seven active nonprofits. In this heartfelt and revealing chat, Kwaku shares not only how he ended up at the helm of the Love Building but also what it really means to lead a nonprofit, blend corporate and nonprofit know-how, and create meaningful connections across Detroit and beyond.If you're someone who loves hearing behind-the-scenes stories, lessons on leadership, and ideas on bringing people together for good, this episode is packed with insights. Expect a thorough exploration of community, experimentation, heartbreaks, and joy—all in one inspiring listen.Guest InformationKwaku OseiRole: Executive Director, The Love Building, DetroitPrevious Experience: Founder of Pharmacy Food and Cooperative Capital; Board President of Bridging Communities; Various board roles including Fair Food Network, Detroit Community Wealth Fund, Economic Development Corporation for Detroit; Past consulting and executive work at Deloitte and with Dan Gilbert (Rock Ventures)Joined The Love Building: February 27, 2024Purpose: Turning the Love Building into a lab for community-rooted economic development, social justice, and loveEpisode SummaryIn this episode, Paul welcomes Kwaku Osei for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, community, and the experimental spirit driving the Love Building in Detroit. Kwaku shares the mission and evolution of the Love Building—a space that serves as headquarters for seven nonprofits dedicated to social justice and creative collaboration.Kwaku opens up about his personal journey to the Love Building, which included several nudges from friends and a moment of cosmic coincidence involving a Rick Rubin video and a timely job listing. He explains how his mix of corporate, government, and nonprofit experience shapes his leadership, highlighting both the similarities and the key differences between these sectors.Listeners get an inside look at the nuts and bolts of nonprofit management, how to foster collaboration instead of duplication, and why real innovation in community work means constant experimentation (and accepting some failures along the way). Kwaku provides specific examples, such as the Earn a Bike program, and offers insights on leveraging top talent across multiple organizations, rather than working in isolation.Throughout, there is a strong emphasis on open-armed collaboration, love in action, and bringing people together—whether it’s through sharing space, supporting grassroots events, or simply creating opportunities for connection. Kwaku ends with a heartfelt call for unity in the face of division, urging listeners to experience the love firsthand and help build a stronger community.Key TakeawaysThe Love Building is more than a space—it’s a living community lab for health, wealth, and love.Kwaku’s journey to leadership was driven by timing, encouragement from others, and a willingness to listen to the universe.Blending corporate, government, and nonprofit experience can spark new ways to solve old challenges.Real community impact depends on connecting disconnected efforts, experimenting boldly, and sharing resources.Anyone interested in making positive change is invited to visit, connect, and collaborate—Detroit (and the world) needs more love and unity.Subscribe, leave a review, and join us next time in the Control Center—because Detroit thrives when more people join the party!

Julie Pingston, President & CEO of Choose Lansing, shares her journey from Washington D.C. politics to leading Lansing’s tourism industry. In this episode, she discusses Lansing’s transformation, launching the Choose Lansing rebrand, and guiding the community through the pandemic.Julie PingstonPresident & CEO, Choose Lansing🌐 lansing.org📧 jpingston@lansing.org00:00 – IntroductionPaul introduces the Mission Control Podcast and today’s guest, Julie Pingston.02:15 – From Politics to Tourism,Julie’s early career in Washington, D.C., and how she unexpectedly found her passion in hospitality and tourism.06:40 – Why Lansing?How Lansing’s mix of government, university energy, arts, and culture creates a one-of-a-kind destination.12:30 – Lansing’s TransformationFrom shuttered storefronts to downtown renewal, Julie recalls the city’s evolution and the role of the Lugnuts’ stadium and Old Town revival.19:55 – Leading Through CrisisJulie’s first day as CEO in March 2020—navigating shutdowns, furloughs, and finding ways to support restaurants, hotels, and frontline workers.28:10 – Choose Lansing RebrandThe bold decision to retire the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau name and launch Choose Lansing at Spartan Stadium.34:25 – Tourism as Community GrowthHow bringing in visitors supports local businesses and creates long-term opportunities.40:50 – Finding Balance including incorporating her leadership styleJulie’s joys: golf, reading, traveling to visit her kids, and keeping a little Disney “pixie dust.”45:30 – Closing Thoughts🎧 Subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify📧 Guest ideas? missioncontrol@unodeuce.com

IntroductionIn this episode of Mission Control, host Paul Schmidt talks with Rebecca Kasen, Executive Director of the Women's Center of Greater Lansing. From her move from New Jersey to her transformative leadership, Rebecca shares how advocacy, humor, and strategy have guided her work in the nonprofit sector. Her story offers real insights into what it takes to lead with heart and drive change.Guest InformationRebecca Kasen. Executive Director, Women's Center of Greater Lansing With over a decade of experience in advocacy, Rebecca has led significant growth at the Center, expanding its budget, programs, and community partnerships. She brings a unique blend of warmth, strategy, and bold leadership.Episode SummaryCandidly," she "she'sRebecca discusses her journey from NJ to Michigan, burnout, and how a “rage-apply” led to her current role. She shares her transition from advocacy to direct service, and how she’s transformed the Women's Center—tripling the budget, increasing staff, and launching impactful programs: counseling (market/sliding scale), job help, business coaching, savings support, hygiene supply distribution, and even canning workshops. She speaks honestly about nonprofit finances, leadership, and building a sustainable future—including plans for a $20 million campus with housing and retail space.

Welcome back to Mission Control, the podcast spotlighting nonprofit movers and shakers making a real difference in their neighborhoods. In this episode, Paul Schmidt sits down with longtime friend and executive director Gabe Biber, who now leads the Fenner Nature Conservancy in Lansing. With a career rooted in nonprofit service, Gabe brings a fresh perspective shaped by years in urban farming, homelessness services, and now nature education.Gabe's listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at Gabe's journey—from restaurant kitchens to Lansing's urban farms, leading Haven House, and now guiding Fenner. The conversation is personal, insightful, and honest, digging into the challenges and wins of leadership, collaboration, and purpose-driven work.Gabe BiberExecutive Director, Fenner Nature ConservancyBackground in urban farming, food security, and homelessness advocacyFun Fact: Enjoys grilling, open mic poetry, and playing trumpet, piano, and guitarPaul Schmidt guides a candid conversation about nonprofit leadership through the lens of Gabe Biber's story. Gabe reflects on how his early experiences in kitchens and urban agriculture shaped his views on food, place, and community, eventually leading to work with the Greater Lansing Food Bank. He shares how managing farms and connecting refugee families with land laid the groundwork for deeper service.Gabe then discusses his pivot into homelessness work at Haven House, where he encountered both the rewards and challenges of direct service. He opens up about the difficulty nonprofits face when collaboration is needed, but philosophies clash. From inter-organizational tension to mission alignment, the episode explores the reality of building bridges under pressure.As executive director, first at Haven House, now at Fenner, Gabe describes stepping into leadership with both humility and curiosity. He shares insights on managing a team, balancing day-to-day logistics with visionary thinking, and how Fenner's programs—especially nature-based early education—are meeting growing community needs.There's no single path to nonprofit leadership—diverse experiences matterCollaboration is vital but challenging; progress requires patience and honest communicationLeadership means stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing growthSustainability in service starts with what's sustainable for youPlaces like Fenner meet a real need, connecting people to nature and each otherLoved this episode of Mission Control? Please share it with a friend, sign up for updates, or better yet, wander over to Fenner Nature Center and say hello to Gabe in person. Got a guest suggestion or question? Drop Paul a line at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com. Subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others discover stories that inspire action—one garden, one idea, one walk in nature at a time.

Mission Control Podcast: Joseph Yang’s Journey from Club Member to CEOContentsIntroGuest InfoLinksSummaryTakeawaysQuotesEpisode BreakdownWrap-UpIntroHost Paul J. Schmidt speaks with Joseph Yang, the new President & CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing. A former member, tech lover, attorney, and nonprofit leader, Joseph shares how his path shaped his passion for youth services, innovation, and leadership.Guest Info: Joseph YangRole: CEO, Boys and Girls Club of LansingBackground: Club alum, MSU grad, attorney, community leaderYears with Club: 21+Contact: jyang@bgclansing.org | 517-394-0455 | bgclansing.orgRelated LinksBoys and Girls Club of LansingBoys & Girls Clubs of AmericaUnoDeuce MultimediaEpisode SummaryJoseph discusses his upbringing with the Club, his tech background, his transition into law, and his leadership style. Key themes include accessibility, esports, mentorship, and adapting youth programs to meet the needs of modern youth. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching and gardening.Key TakeawaysClub membership remains $10 per year, unchanged for over 20 years.Mentorship and lifelong learning are vital for leadership growth.Innovation (e.g., esports) helps keep programs relevant.Maintaining a balance between personal and professional life is essential.Notable Quotes“The Club’s mission is to inspire all youth to reach their potential.”“It’s still $10 a year. It’s been that way for 21 years.”“I grew up in a computer lab. That love of tech never left.”“Being a lifelong learner means knowing your gaps and closing them.”“We meet kids where they are—traditional programs and now esports.”Episode Breakdown00:00 – Meet Joseph: Club mission and leadership intro03:26 – Tech Roots: Early coding, Sega, MSU degree09:10 – Law Career: Serving the community in court13:05 – Club Journey: Member to CEO, mentors, leadership24:39 – Vision: Expanding access, adding esports29:23 – Life Balance: Coaching and gardening as outlets31:55 – Wrap-Up: Final thoughts and how to connectWrap-UpConnect with Joseph at jyang@bgclansing.org or visit bgclansing.org. Subscribe to the Mission Control Podcast on YouTube or your favorite platform. Share this story and stay tuned for more inspiring journeys.

Eric Hufnagel of the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness is leading a statewide data-driven effort to fight homelessness. Learn how MCAH uses coordinated data, policy advocacy, and community partnerships to drive real, systemic change across Michigan.For more on the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness: https://www.mihomeless.org/The Mission: To serve as an inclusive statewide voice to improve systems and support communities to prevent and end homelessness in a way that leaves no one behind.If there is someone you know of whom you would like to hear about their journey, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com

In this Season 5 premiere of Mission Control, Paul J. Schmidt of UnoDeuce Multimedia talks with Megyn Forest, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Capital Region, about mentorship, nonprofit leadership, and building community through meaningful connection.For more on the Big Brothers Big Sisters Capital Region: https://bbbsmcr.org/The Mission: To create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.If there is someone you know of whom you would like to hear about their journey, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com

Mission Control returns for Season 5 with host Paul Schmidt and powerful conversations with nonprofit leaders. Tune in biweekly for inspiring stories from Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Club, and more. Available on all major platforms!

Join host Paul Schmidt on this episode of Mission Control as he talks with Kim Renwick, Executive Director of the Shiawassee Community Foundation. Discover her journey from banking to nonprofit leadership, the impact of COVID-19, and the foundation's future goals. For more on the Shiawassee Community Foundation: https://www.shiacf.org/ The Mission: Enriching lives in the Shiawassee County region through strong community relationships and good stewardship of our funds. For good. Forever If there is someone you know of that you would like to hear about their journey, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com

On this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Alex Brace, Executive Director of Small Talk Child Advocacy Center, shares his journey into child advocacy. He discusses the center's mission, leadership challenges, and the importance of creating a positive work environment while addressing sensitive issues. For more on Small Talk Child Advocacy Center: https://www.smalltalkcac.org/ The Mission: Small Talk is dedicated to providing hope, healing, and justice for children and families impacted by abuse in Ingham and Eaton counties. If there is someone you know of that you would like to hear about their journey, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com Please Subscribe to Mission Control: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/UnoDeuceMultimedia Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/48rXeAj445PewVH0nyeiis Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-control/id1541380912

In this episode of Mission Control, host Paul Schmidt interviews Cameo King, the founder of Grit, Glam, and Guts (GGG). Cameo shares her mission to empower girls aged 12 to 17 with educational and civic learning opportunities while increasing their self-identity and self-awareness. Starting from her career in journalism, Cameo reveals how she transitioned into founding GGG and her motivation behind it. The podcast delves deep into her approach to storytelling, which she uses in her podcast, the Good Girl Podcast, and her work with other non-profits to help them find their voice and communicate effectively. For more on Grit Glam & Guts: https://www.gritglamguts.org/ The Mission: Grit, Glam, & Guts works to transform the lives of underserved girls through the arts, educational and civic engagement opportunities to promote social change, eliminate barriers to success, maximize potential, empower girls to gain higher self-awareness, develop a healthy self-identity, and also recognize and engage in the power of their voice. If there is someone you know of that you would like to hear about their journey, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com

Dive into this episode of Mission Control as Paul Schmidt interviews Louise Montag, Director of the Prevention Network. Discover her unique journey from aspiring ER physician to public health leader, her advocacy for substance misuse prevention, and the impactful work being done. For more on Prevention Network: https://www.preventionnetwork.org/ The Mission: To cultivate healthy communities across Michigan through resources, technical assistance, and support. If there is someone you know of that you would like to hear about their journey, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com

On this episode of Mission Control, we talk with Aaryn Richard, former director of marketing and communications at the Michigan State University Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. We spoke about insights into his journey, the mission of the Burgess Institute, and the evolving communication landscape. TO NOTE: This interview was recorded in the spring, and Aaryn has since moved on to be the Senior Director of Marketing & Communications at the MSU College of Law For more on the MSU Burgess Institute, https://entrepreneurship.msu.edu/ The Mission: To prepare Michigan State University students for the real world by equipping them with an entrepreneurial mindset and supporting them as they build their businesses here on campus. If there is someone you know of that you would like to hear about their journey, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com

Our owner welcomes you back into the control center as we gear up the launch to season 4 of our podcast, Mission Control. Check this short preview out as we highlight who our first few guests are. The new season begins in May and you can subscribe to it on your favorite podcasting platform.

In this engaging episode, Paul Schmidt interviews Brian Philson, the leader of Highields, Inc., about his extensive career in juvenile justice and nonprofit leadership career. Brian talks about the origins and mission of Highields, founded in 1962, aiming to provide opportunities to children, youth, and families, helping them become responsible, productive members of society. He shares stories from his early career and the pivotal moments that solidified his commitment to this work. Brian also discusses the significant changes and reforms in juvenile justice over the past decades and how Highfields has adapted its strategies, especially during the pandemic. Balancing his values of faith, family, and fitness with his professional duties, Brian emphasizes the importance of being a lifelong learner. He shares his experiences managing a team through challenging times. For more on Highfields, Inc: https://www.highfields.org/ The Mission: To provide opportunities to children, youth and families to become more responsible for their own lives and to strengthen their relationships with others. If there is someone you know of that you would like to hear about their journey, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com