Max Loves Midland

Do yourself a favor and listen to episode 12 of the Max Loves Midland Show before you go shop for all your Thanksgiving groceries! Joyce and Kevin share some personal favorites from Thanksgiving past. Let us know in the comments, what is a must have for your Thanksgiving feast? Listen to all episodes of the show on your favorite platform. ???? https://lnkd.in/gPXDRxjq #MaxLovesMidland #MidlandMi

On Friday, November 15, the Max Loves Midland Navigation Team met to tackle a critical topic affecting families, businesses, and the community: childcare infrastructure and policy. Local and regional experts gathered to share insights into the challenges and opportunities within this space, sparking discussions and collaborative problem-solving among attendees. Childcare is more than a family issue—it’s an economic driver. It impacts workforce retention, productivity, and community growth. The meeting explored how Midland County and Michigan at large are addressing these concerns, showcasing initiatives and solutions to build a sustainable childcare system for the future. Read the full recap: https://lnkd.in/getZwGnv #MidlandMi #MaxLovesMidland #Childcare

New in Stories ?? Accomplishing What Matters: Fostering Multi Generational Relationships, from Kathryn Tate, President & CEO of The Legacy Center for Community Success We live in a lonely era. For as connected as our society seems on the surface, deep and meaningful relationships seem to be on the decline. Many relationships are fostered through social media and texting now, rather than face-to-face interactions. The decline in in-person relationships seems to be taking a toll on the mental health of people of all ages. It’s well known that multi generational relationships are valuable for young and old alike, but with families more scattered than ever, these relationships are fewer and farther between, and more likely to be connections through social media and texting. Where does one go to build connections like this, ones that are meaningful and benefit both parties? The Legacy Center’s tutoring pairs are an amazing example of multi generational connections. Volunteer tutors spend two hours per week with their learner. During their tutoring sessions, they connect about life, they share stories, play (learning) games, and work hard to build reading, math, and English language skills. Time and again, we have seen reluctant learners come to our office when they start tutoring, feeling anxious and uncomfortable. In the span of a few weeks to a few months, the relationships grow and learners eagerly skip into the office with a smile on their faces, happy to see their tutor. As the relationship grows, students become more comfortable to try new skills and begin to build confidence. But this does not just benefit the students. Tutors often report finding the experience to be fulfilling and their favorite volunteer activity. They enjoy the day-to-day interactions about school and life, but they love the “ah-ha” moments when a skill clicks into place! Tutors see the moments when a learner’s life begins to change for the better, when school gets easier, or an adult is ready to take the next step in their education or career, the moment when their hard work has paid off. If you’re feeling lonely and looking for purpose and connection, The Legacy Center could be a great fit for you. Tutors don’t need to have a special background; the agency will prepare you with all the tools you need to teach the curriculum effectively, and their staff provide high levels of support when it is needed. Many kids and adults are waiting for a tutor to work with them. You could change someone’s life and build meaningful connections with just a couple hours each week. In doing so, you might just improve your mental health and theirs.

This might be the most important draft you’ve weighed in on this year… In episode 14 of the Max Loves Midland show Jason and Kevin share their top five picks for their favorite hip-hop artists of all time! If you watch or listen to the full episode, you’ll hear Jason’s request for people to share their favorite songs from these artists in the comments, so let’s do it! What are your favorite songs from these hip-hop legends, and who would be on your list?? ?????? #MaxLovesMidland #MidlandMi #HipHop Jason Story Kevin LaDuke

???? ALERT: I know you want another episode: “People want a sense of purpose, significance, & impact in both workplace & community. Having one and not the other isn't enough. People want both.” - Jason Story In this episode of the Max Loves Midland Show, Host Kevin LaDuke sits down with Jason Story, the Director of Talent and Small Business Initiatives for the Midland Business Alliance. They dive deep into a comprehensive framework for the retention, attraction, and development of talents (RAD TALENT, Y'ALL) in the Midland area. The discussion covers the key stages of the framework - attraction, acquisition, integration, equipment, development, retention, and sustentation - and how this model can be applied in the workplace and the broader community. Kevin and Jason explore the importance of building emotional connections, fostering a sense of belonging, and empowering individuals to find their roles and contributions to their community. This conversation expands beyond Midland, Michigan, and offers valuable insights for any community seeking to attract, develop, and retain top talent while strengthening community ties. Watch or listen: YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gxAi5sDq Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gnq53StM Apple: https://lnkd.in/g97KSaMk

?? NEW EPISODE ALERT ?? "Are you telling me I'm not living if I'm at work?!?" Jason Story discusses his journey to Midland, Michigan and his work in talent development and community initiatives. Jason shares his background growing up in Oakland County and his experiences living and working in various places around the country, including New York, California, and the Caribbean. He reflects on the importance of finding environments that resonate with his values and energy. Watch or listen: YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gBSCqRUQ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gnq53StM Apple: https://lnkd.in/g97KSaMk

Coming off a big win against the Packers last night, today is the perfect day to talk about your favorite Lions players of all time! Check out this draft from episode 13 of the Max Loves Midland show where Skylyr and Kevin share their top five picks for their favorite Detroit Lions players. ?????? Watch or listen to the full episode on your preferred platform and share YOUR favorite Lions players in the comments! #MaxLovesMidland #MidlandMi

What a great WakeUp! Midland event today, from the Midland Business Alliance. Our very own Kevin LaDuke took the stage with Mayor Maureen Donker and Jason Story to discuss talent attraction and retention. I’m so proud to live in a community where so many people care deeply and work tirelessly to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Are things perfect? Of course not. But are we doing our best to connect people with what they need? Absolutely. All of this work is done through the lens of love—because we love Midland and all the people who live here. ??

On Friday, November 15, from 9-11am, the Max Loves Midland Navigation Team meeting will focus on one of the most important issues in Midland County today: childcare infrastructure and policy. Hear from local leaders that work diligently on these issues in the community and discuss and provide your own experience and feedback. If you’d like to be included on future meeting notices please send me a message at [email protected] ?? #MaxLovesMidland #MidlandMi

NEW EPISODE! ?? This episode of the Max Loves Midland Show features an engaging conversation with Joyce Hagen-Flint, a passionate advocate for community connection and inclusivity. Joyce shares her journey of fostering neighborly relationships and her heartfelt insights on the command to love our neighbors. Thank you for being you, Joyce! Catch the episode wherever you enjoy podcasts by visiting MaxLovesMidland.com ?? YouTube: https://lnkd.in/grujCE9Y #MaxLovesMidland #MidlandMi