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What happens when you take a material known for aerospace, automotive and high-performance applications and bring it into industries that have relied on steel for decades?

On this episode of the Entrepreneur Like ME Podcast, Courtney sits down with Willie and Eli Rytlewski of CF SPAN to talk about CarbonBar, their carbon fiber solution designed to bring strength, durability and lightweight performance into new industries and everyday applications.

But this conversation is about much more than carbon fiber.

Willie and Eli share the story behind CF SPAN, what it takes to introduce a new product into established industries, the importance of understanding your customer before going to market, and why even the best innovation still has to make business sense.

We also get into the realities of manufacturing and scaling, building the right team, listening to customer feedback, becoming cost competitive, and creating systems that allow a growing company to move from a great idea to a sustainable business.

Whether you're developing a new product, trying to disrupt an established industry, or simply figuring out how to turn your idea into something customers will actually buy, this conversation is a reminder that innovation isn't just about creating something new—it's about solving a real problem and building the business around it.

Learn more about CF SPAN and CarbonBar:
www.cfspan.com

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!

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From Visibility to Viability: Building Marketing Systems That Convert

Getting people to notice your business is only half the battle—turning that attention into paying customers is where the real work begins. In this episode of Entrepreneur Like Me, I sit down with Angela Carter, founder of Angela M. Carter Services, to talk about the strategy behind sustainable business growth and why successful entrepreneurs build systems, not just social media posts.

After making an unconventional transition from entertainment law to digital marketing, Angela now helps coaches, consultants, product-based businesses, and service providers create sales funnels, lead generation systems, and customer journeys that consistently convert interest into revenue. She shares why trust must be earned before a sale is ever made, how entrepreneurs can simplify their marketing, and why every customer interaction should have a purpose.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why visibility alone doesn't grow a business
• The difference between a website and a sales funnel
• Building trust through intentional messaging and video marketing
• Creating lead generation systems that work while you sleep
• Using email marketing to nurture relationships and increase sales
• How AI is helping entrepreneurs work smarter—not harder
• Practical steps to stop chasing algorithms and start building predictable growth

Whether you're just starting your business or looking to create a more consistent customer acquisition strategy, this episode will challenge you to think beyond marketing tactics and start building a business that scales with intention.

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!

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Building a Business That Leaves a Legacy

What starts as making custom treats for a child's birthday party can grow into something much bigger. In this episode of Entrepreneur Like Me, I sit down with Devonya Brown, founder of Sparkle Tees, to talk about building a business rooted in creativity, family, and legacy. From custom apparel and personalized gifts to empowering messages that inspire confidence, Devonya shares how she's creating more than products—she's building something her children can one day carry forward.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Pivoting from baking to custom apparel during the pandemic
• Teaching yourself design and growing through trial, feedback, and persistence
• Creating products that celebrate identity, confidence, and community
• Pricing your work with confidence and knowing your value
• Overcoming stage fright through Lift ME and the BET on Black Pitch Competition
• Rebranding your business to match the vision for its future
• Why entrepreneurship is about building a legacy, not just earning a living

Whether you're a creative entrepreneur, maker, or anyone working to turn passion into purpose, Devonya's journey is a reminder that every great business starts with believing in yourself—and staying committed to the vision even when the path isn't easy.

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!

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Building a Business That Gives People Time Back

What does it take to grow a service business from an idea into a company people trust? In this episode of Entrepreneur Like Me, I sit down with Lisa Mayo and Ashley LaVigne, co-founders of Scrubbydubs Cleaning Service, LLC, to discuss building a business founded on systems, exceptional customer service, and a culture that empowers both employees and clients.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Making the leap from corporate careers to entrepreneurship
• The pivot that transformed their business model
• Building a team through culture, accountability, and leadership
• Using technology and AI to improve the customer experience
• Why they believe they're not just cleaning homes—they're giving people their time back

Whether you're growing a service business or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, this conversation is full of practical lessons and real-world insights.

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!

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What does it really take to build a thriving downtown?

In this episode of Entrepreneur Like Me, Courtney Garrett sits down with Ann Marie Batkoski-Sullivan, Executive Director of Positive Results Downtown Saginaw (PRIDE), to explore how community development and economic development go hand in hand. From organizing the beloved Friday Night Live concert series to leading a volunteer-powered nonprofit, Ann Marie shares what it takes to create a downtown people want to visit, invest in, and call home.

You'll hear about her leadership journey—from construction project management to workforce development and now downtown revitalization—and why relationships, partnerships, and showing up for your community are the foundation of lasting impact.

Courtney and Ann Marie also discuss:

• The behind-the-scenes work of producing Friday Night Live and other downtown events
• How volunteers, sponsors, and community partners make free events possible
• Why a vibrant downtown is essential for entrepreneurs and small businesses
• The misconceptions people have about Downtown Saginaw
• How creating memorable experiences helps transform the narrative of a community

Whether you're an entrepreneur, community leader, volunteer, or someone who simply wants to see their hometown thrive, this conversation is a reminder that meaningful change starts with people willing to show up.

Listen now and discover why building a stronger community may be the best investment we can make.

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!

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Episode Title: From Cleaning Homes to Changing the Industry with Carrie Everett, Founder of Safiee

What happens when an everyday challenge turns into a groundbreaking innovation?

In this episode of Entrepreneur Like ME, Courtney Garrett sits down with Carrie Everett, founder and inventor of Safiee—a first-of-its-kind cleaning product created from years of hands-on experience as a professional house cleaner.

Carrie's journey is anything but ordinary. Without a formal business education, she transformed an idea born on the job into a patent-pending product, navigating trademarks, manufacturing, and product development with determination and the support of Michigan's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Along the way, she was recognized as the 2025 Innovator of the Year by the Midland Business Alliance.

But this conversation goes beyond entrepreneurship. Carrie opens up about motherhood, recovery, resilience, and the courage to believe in herself when the odds seemed stacked against her. Her story is a powerful reminder that innovation can come from everyday experiences—and that your past doesn't define your future.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, inventor, dreamer, or someone waiting for the right time to take the first step, this episode will leave you inspired to trust your ideas and keep moving forward.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• How Safiee was inspired by a real-world problem
• The journey from cleaning homes to becoming an award-winning inventor
• Lessons learned while navigating patents, trademarks, and manufacturing
• The power of community resources and asking for help
• Why resilience may be an entrepreneur's greatest superpower

Connect with Carrie Everett
🌐 www.safiee.com

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a reminder that big dreams often begin with one simple idea.

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!

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In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Tyler Harlan, insurance agent and member of The Power Link, to talk about one of the most valuable tools an entrepreneur can have—relationships.

Tyler shares why networking is about much more than exchanging business cards. It's about building trust, creating meaningful connections, and surrounding yourself with people who genuinely want to see your business succeed.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What "Networking Done Right" really means
• How referral-based relationships help businesses grow
• Common networking mistakes entrepreneurs make
• Why protecting your business with the right insurance matters
• The value of community when building a business

Whether you're launching a new business or looking to grow your network, this episode is full of practical advice that reminds us success isn't built alone.

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 Fan Mail

Season 3, Episode 4: Ann Sigsby – Curiosity, Connection & Supporting Small Business

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Ann Sigsby, a lifelong learner, connector, and champion for small businesses.

With a background that spans animal agriculture, entrepreneurship in holistic wellness, and 25 years as a Senior Analyst with AIM Targeted Intelligence, Ann shares how curiosity, data, and relationships help entrepreneurs make smarter decisions.

This conversation dives into the power of supporting small businesses, trusting both instinct and insight, and why careers don’t always follow a straight line.

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!