MI PEOPLE
MI PEOPLE
Podcast Description
MI PEOPLE is where Michigan’s most fascinating stories and personalities come to life. Hosted by Mike Lamentola of Michigan Media House, this podcast shines a spotlight on local business owners, community doers, and inspiring entrepreneurs—plus a few quirky, interesting folks. Whether it’s uncovering the journey of a local leader, swapping stories with a unique guest, or just having a good laugh, MI PEOPLE is your backstage pass to the best conversations in the Mitten. Serious inspiration, zero boring small talk.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores a variety of themes centered on entrepreneurship, community engagement, and innovative local businesses. Episodes include discussions on the growth and challenges faced by local ventures like UGQ Outdoor and Great Lakes Yurt Co., the customization of outdoor gear, the rise of yurts in alternative living, and personal growth via fitness in a competitive industry.

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.
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 intuition. He suggests that as the internet becomes flooded with AI-generated content, society will naturally pivot back to the ”raw” and the ”real.” This means a renewed appreciation for live musical performances, local community connections, and the inherent value of human imperfection. Tony also touches on ”creative mobility,” noting that technology has lowered the barrier to entry for geniuses who might have otherwise gone unheard.
Tony is a proud new resident of Belleville, MI, and the episode explores the local impact of global trends. They discuss the powerlessness many feel regarding the development of massive data centers in Michigan townships and the need for local communities to ”tend to their own gardens.” Mike advocates for local investment funds and a more proactive approach to local government, ensuring that Michigan residents have a seat at the table as the state’s infrastructure evolves.
Episode Highlights
⛳️ The ”Jesus Ball” and finding faith in unexpected places.
🤖 AI vs. Human Intuition: Can machines ever truly create?
🎸 The future of live music and the value of raw performance.
🏘️ Local impact: Data centers and the changing face of Michigan townships.
⏳ Experiencing time as biological beings in a digital age.
This episode is tailored for Michigan-based creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone wrestling with the implications of technology on our daily lives. It’s for those who value deep discourse over soundbites and are looking for a reason to stay optimistic about the future of human creativity.
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