The Michigan Opportunity Radio Show ~ FROM INNOVATION TO IMPACT: Turning Michigan Ideas Into Economic Opportunity, from both the University of Michigan & Nunchi

Sept. 12, 2026 ~ Two very different conversations on WJR’s Great Voice, connected by one powerful theme: innovation.

I spoke with Associate Vice President for Research – Innovation Partnerships and Economic Impact at the University of Michigan, Kelly Sexton, about moving breakthrough research and discoveries from the university into the marketplace—through industry partnerships, technology commercialization, startups and investment.

I also spoke with Founder of Nunchi, Trista Van Tine, about the entrepreneurial side of innovation and what it takes to turn an idea into a company, build a team and create solutions for real-world markets.

From the research lab to the startup ecosystem, these conversations highlight an important part of Michigan’s future: our ability to transform knowledge, creativity and innovation into companies, jobs and economic opportunity.

Michigan has tremendous intellectual and entrepreneurial assets. The opportunity is connecting them.