Max Loves Midland

In this episode of the Max Loves Midland Show, host Kevin LaDuke sits down with Natalia Iakovleva, one of the four owners of Chef Sergey’s Bakery, a European-style bakery nestled in Midland’s Center City. Natalia shares the incredible story of how her family fled Ukraine and, through an unlikely partnership with another refugee family, found hope and purpose by opening a bakery that has quickly become a beacon of community, comfort, and culture. From the classic Ukrainian saying, “bread is the head of everything,” to a deeply rooted philosophy of making everything from scratch, Natalia discusses how bread became not just a product, but a way to nourish lives and bring people together. Hear how Chef Sergey’s was supported through the Midland Area Community Foundation’s impact investing initiative, and how Natalia and her team are creating a new generation of bakers and community builders—right in the heart of the Circle. This episode is a celebration of food, resilience, and the quiet magic that happens when people care deeply for one another.

On this episode of the Max Loves Midland Show, we sit down with Cailey Brown, Forensic Interviewer and Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Coordinator at the Midland Child Advocacy Center (CAC), to talk about one of the most important — and often unseen — support systems in our community. Cailey shares her story of growing up in small-town Merrill, Michigan, her unexpected path into the world of psychology, and how that journey led her to a career in child advocacy and direct service work. We explore what the CAC is, how it operates at the intersection of prevention and intervention, and why its collaborative approach is so vital for families navigating some of the hardest moments of their lives. Cailey pulls back the curtain on what a forensic interview actually looks like, how prevention education plays a role in keeping kids safe, and what it means to truly support children and families in moments of crisis. We also talk about Midland — her initial perceptions of the community, how they’ve changed over the past three years, and what she hopes to see in Midland’s future. Plus, Cailey gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the CAC’s annual Arts & Advocacy event on May 1 at Creative 360 — a night that brings together art, conversation, and community support for a critical cause. This episode is a reminder that sometimes, the quietest work happening in a community is also the most powerful.

In this episode of the Max Loves Midland Show, we sit down with Penny Miller-Nelson, Superintendent of Midland Public Schools (MPS), to talk about her journey, passion for public education, and the bond proposal currently in front of our community. From her upbringing on a dairy farm in West Branch to her current leadership role in one of the top-performing districts in Michigan, Penny shares her heartfelt perspective on what it means to build a school system—and a community—that truly serves its people. We dive into proposed facility improvements, including new elementary and middle schools, enhanced safety measures, reconfigured learning environments, and expanded preschool and special education spaces. Penny walks us through the "why now" of the proposal, explains the real-world impact on families, and gets candid about the emotions of letting go of old school buildings while building something new. We also explore the academic excellence MPS is known for, the critical role of early childhood education, and how facilities can shape performance, pride, and belonging in a community. From civic engagement and community feedback to the role of arts, athletics, robotics, technical education, and more, this episode is a deep dive into how public schools touch every corner of a city—and how the choices we make today can shape the Midland of tomorrow. Don't miss Penny's insights on leadership, love for learning, and the power of people coming together. For more information on the bond proposal, visit www.midlandps.org. Explore Midland through the lens of its people! Check out more episodes at maxlovesmidland.com.

In this episode of Max Loves Midland, we’re hanging out with Jacqueline Leapheart—someone who seems to have her hands in everything great happening in Midland. Whether you know her from Adoption Option Inc., WindowStill Real Estate, her uplifting TikToks at Joy with Jax, or one of her other many community endeavors, Jacqueline brings nonstop energy, passion, and a deep love for Midland. We talk about her journey growing up, what keeps her so involved, and why she’s always rocking something red. From her cheerleading days at Dow High to her work supporting kids and families, Jacqueline shares stories that will make you laugh, think, and appreciate the power of showing up for others. She even gets into her love for The Infinite at Midland Center for the Arts, her obsession with shark movies, and what it’s like tutoring a student who keeps her on her toes. This one’s full of heart (and heart-shaped glasses). 

Join us for a stellar episode of the Max Loves Midland Show as we go to space—well, sort of! This week, we sit down with Alex Woody, Communications Manager for Midland Center for the Arts, to talk about The Infinite, an out-of-this-world immersive experience that brings real astronaut footage from the International Space Station right here to Midland. Alex shares insights on how the Center continues to be a regional arts and culture hub, the impact of accessibility in the arts, and his own journey from Kentucky to Michigan’s thriving creative scene. Plus, we talk about the legacy of the Center, the future of community leadership, and Alex’s top five favorite theater productions. Whether you're a space enthusiast, an art lover, or just looking for something new to experience in Midland, this episode has something for you! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and head to MaxLovesMidland.com to find your next local adventure! 🚀🎭

In this special 20th episode of The Max Loves Midland Show, host Kevin LaDuke sits down with Tonia West from The ROCK Center for Youth Development to explore her journey as a “boomerang” who returned to Midland and found a renewed sense of community. Tonia shares her experiences growing up as a military kid, her path from journalism to wellness and education, and how she’s making a difference as a Discover You Coach. Through her work, she’s empowering students with skills in resilience, communication, and self-worth—lessons she continues to apply in her own life. She also discusses the importance of social-emotional learning, her family's deep ties to the area, and her vision for a more connected, inclusive Midland. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about belonging, personal growth, and the power of community.

Erin Patrice, founder of The Breaking Bread Village, joins Max Loves Midland to share her journey of moving to Midland, Michigan, over 20 years ago and finding her purpose in fostering meaningful dialogue and community connections. She recounts her transition from Cincinnati, the challenges of adapting to a less diverse environment, and the pivotal moments that led her to create The Breaking Bread Village—a platform for open, inclusive conversations that bring people with differing perspectives together. Erin discusses the inspiration behind the initiative, which emerged during the social and political upheaval of 2020, and how it has since evolved into a powerful force for community engagement and understanding. With host Kevin LaDuke, she reflects on the impact of her work, the partnerships that have fueled its growth, and the upcoming Breaking Bread Village live show tour. Through candid storytelling and heartfelt moments, Erin underscores the importance of fostering curiosity, building bridges, and embracing diversity in all its forms.

🌲 Welcome to Nord Social! In this video, we talk with Grant Murschel, a Midland local who’s done it all—city planning, real estate development, and now launching a Scandinavian-inspired social club called Nord Social. His journey is about bringing people together, creating spaces, and helping communities grow. We explore how Grant’s rural upbringing shaped his passion for building strong communities, his experiences at the City of Midland and SPACE Inc. and what he learned about thriving communities, his career shift to working with Midland County Educational Service Agency's Career and Technical Education programs, and the exciting launch of Nord Social—a bar and social club that fills a gap in Midland’s food and drink scene. We also discuss why places like coffee shops and social clubs are important for bringing people together and sparking ideas, as well as what’s next for Midland, including plans for more walkable and connected spaces. Nord Social is coming to Midland’s Center City Corridor with local vibes, great drinks, and a mission to connect people. It’s more than a bar—it’s a hub for building relationships, and you can be part of it through their upcoming crowdfunding campaign! Grant’s story shows how teamwork builds communities, from his connections on the Max Loves Midland Show to his work with local groups like MYPros and the Midland Area Community Foundation, proving that great things happen when people collaborate. Dream big and stay local as Grant’s vision focuses on sustainability, innovation, and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. Watch this video to find out how you can help make it happen, and don’t forget to hit play, like, and subscribe to join us in building Midland’s future together!