Startup Grind Lansing
Deucey Award Reflections: Element Massage is the Latest Downtown Superstar
Element Massage: A Journey of Unforeseen Success
Element Massage began as an unexpected journey for its founder, Colton, who never imagined that his path in massage therapy would lead to such success. Initially, Colton didn’t plan to make a career out of it, nor did he envision owning a business or leading a team. Yet, through unforeseen circumstances and hard work, Element Massage was born and has since grown into a thriving business.
The Unplanned Journey
Colton’s story is one of fate. When he first went to school for massage therapy, he never intended to turn it into a lifelong career. But life has a way of surprising us, and for Colton, those surprises led to the creation of Element Massage. What began as a simple educational pursuit quickly evolved into a passion, and before he knew it, Colton found himself running his own business.
Element Massage has since become a place where clients can receive top-notch massage therapy, but there’s more in the works. Colton and his team are constantly exploring new ways to expand their services and enhance the client experience, making Element Massage more than just a pmassage place; i’s a wellness journey.
Creating a Unique Healing Environment
What truly sets Element Massage apart is the environment it offers. The ambiance in many massage therapy centers can feel stark or minimalist, but Element Massage takes a different approach. The goal is to create an immersive experience that engages all the senses, helping clients relax and recharge fully.
The center boasts four unique therapy rooms, each designed to reflect a different element and natural biome:
– The Earth Room is a whimsical forest setting that envelops clients in the tranquility of nature. With soft lighting and natural décor, this room is designed to make you feel grounded and at peace.
– The Fire Room draws inspiration from the desert landscapes of Southwest America. Under a starry ceiling, clients can relax with a campfire vibe, feeling the warmth and comfort of a desert night.
– The Water Room is currently in development, but it promises to bring the soothing essence of water into the therapy experience. Colton envisions a space where the sound of flowing water and the cool tones of blue will create a serene, calming environment.
– The Air Room is another future project that provides a breezy, open-sky experience. This room will be designed to evoke feelings of freedom and lightness, offering clients a refreshing escape from the stresses of daily life.
Each room is a testament to the care and creativity that Colton and his team put into every aspect of Element Massage. Creating these unique spaces aims to provide a truly transformative experience for every client.
Overcoming Challenges with a Great Team
Running a business comes with ichalenges, and Colton has faced his fair share. One of the biggest hurdles was stepping in front of the camera to create a promotional video for Element Massage. Colton admits that he’s not a fan of being on camera, but the support and encouragement from his team made all the difference. Together, they created a video that not only serves as a landmark for where Element Massage has been but also as a powerful marketing tool.
“It’s cool to have that video as a landmark of where I was,” Colton reflects, acknowledging this team’s collective effort. Their hard work and dedication have been instrumental in the success of Element Massage, and it’s something that Colton is immensely proud of.
Recognition and Appreciation
Element Massage’s excellence was recently recognized with the Deucey Award for Downtown Superstar, where Colton proudly accepted an award on behalf of the business. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, passion, and commitment of the entire Element Massage team. The award now adorns the space, serving as ba smbol of achievement and a motivator for future growth.
Future Aspirations: Beyond Massage
Looking ahead, Colton envisions Element evolving into something greater than just a massage studio. The future could see Element transform into “Element Emporium,” a comprehensive wellness destination that offers a wide range of services for the mind, body, and spirit. This dream is not just a distant goal but a tangible next step that Colton and his team are actively working toward.
As Element Massage continues to expand, the vision is to introduce various wellness services and mind-body therapies, creating a holistic oasis where clients can not only receive massages but also take yoga classes, participate in meditation sessions, and enjoy other wellness activities.
Concluding Thoughts
Element Massage started as an unexpected journey for Colton, but it has since blossomed into a thriving business that stands out for its unique environment and dedicated team. With plans to expand into a holistic wellness center, the sky’s the limit for what Element can achieve.
If you’re looking for a place that offers more than just a massage, where every detail is crafted to provide peace and relaxation, Element Massage is the place to visit. Stay tuned for more updates as Element continues its journey toward becoming Element Emporium, your holistic wellness destination.
EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Startup Stories: Lotus Beauty Lounge
More than just a business expert and startup founder, our guest today is also a beauty and wellness expert! Tune in to hear how Melissa Terry founded Lotus Beauty Lounge after facing a challenging situation where she was asked to change her hairstyle to fit corporate norms.
Join host Julie Holton Smith in this unique episode as Melissa also dives into the latest trends in hair, skincare, and makeup that can help business professionals make a powerful impression. Learn about the importance of self-care routines for building confidence, and discover how stress-relief techniques can keep you calm and collected during high-stakes meetings.
Whether you’re a business leader looking to enhance your appearance or just interested in the latest beauty and wellness trends, this episode has something for everyone.
Don’t miss this insightful conversation or future episodes packed with practical tips and inspiration to help you look and feel your best in the business world – subscribe to Expert Connexions today!
Connect with Melissa at Lotus Beauty Lounge: https://www.thelotusbeautylounge.com/
Connect with Julie and her team at mConnexions: https://www.mconnexions.com/contact-us/
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CLIENT STORY: First Day Homecare – What is Private Duty Nursing?
Private duty nursing plays an integral role in providing specialized care right in the homes of patients. This aspect of nursing is all about offering extended or hourly care, specifically through shift-based services. But what exactly does this entail? Let’s dive deeper into what private duty nursing is, its importance, and how it benefits both patients and their families.
Understanding Private Duty Nursing
Private duty nursing is defined by its focus on shift-based services within the home setting. Instead of tending to multiple patients, nurses in this field concentrate exclusively on one patient, allowing for a tailored and comprehensive care experience.
“Private duty, you have one patient that you’re focused on specifically.”
Key Components of Private Duty Nursing
Every patient in private duty nursing has a unique set of medical needs and care plans. Here are some crucial components involved:
Medication Lists: Each patient has their own medication regimen that needs to be followed meticulously.
Trach Suctioning Orders: Personalized instructions for tracheal suctioning.
Feeding Orders: Specific guidelines for feeding.
Personalized Patient Care
No two patients are the same, and this is where private duty nursing truly shines. Nurses get to know their patients deeply, understanding their needs and their unique ways of communicating distress or discomfort. This is especially true for pediatric cases, where understanding a child’s cries can make a significant difference in their care.
“Does he need meds? Does he need his belly rubbed? Does he need to be turned?”
These are some of the critical questions nurses might consider as they assess the immediate needs of their patients. The personal connection and understanding fostered in this environment are both unique and deeply impactful.
Flexibility for Families
One of the substantial advantages of private duty nursing is the flexibility it offers to families. Nurses can work out an ideal schedule that fits both their own needs and those of the family. For instance:
A nurse might be available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
These specifics are communicated to the family, allowing them to accept support that best fits their schedules and needs.
Meeting Unique Needs
In some cases, nurses may have unique hour requirements that don’t fit the typical hospital shift structures. Private duty nursing accommodates these needs, ensuring that excellent care doesn’t go to waste because of rigid scheduling conflicts.
Examples of Flexible Scheduling
Nurse Availability: Working odd hours that hospitals can’t accommodate but fit perfectly within a home care context.
Family Support: Families can negotiate timings that augment their caregiving efforts, improving the overall support system for the patient.
Conclusion
Private duty nursing is a vital service that offers personalized, flexible, and compassionate care right at home. By focusing on one patient at a time, nurses can provide the undivided attention necessary for optimal care outcomes. Families also benefit from the adaptability in scheduling, making private duty nursing an invaluable part of the healthcare landscape.
For those needing specialized and consistent care, private duty nursing provides a support system that is both professional and deeply empathetic. Through personalized schedules and intimate knowledge of patient needs, this service enriches the lives of patients and their families, ensuring everyone gets the help they need.
MISSION CONTROL: Navigating Public Health Leadership: A Conversation with Louise Montag from the Prevention Network
Welcome to another episode of Mission Control, where we spotlight nonprofit leaders who are making meaningful impacts in their communities. In this episode, host Paul Schmidt, owner and creative video strategist for Unroduce Multimedia, sits down with Louise Montag, Director of the Prevention Network. Louise shares her inspiring journey, from aspiring to be an ER physician to becoming a leader in public health, as well as the vital work her organization is doing to prevent substance misuse across the state.
The Mission of Prevention Network
The Prevention Network is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to supporting substance misuse prevention efforts at the grassroots level. As Louise explains, the organization offers comprehensive support, including training, technical assistance, and resources to help build healthier communities. Their mission is to address substance misuse and promote wellness, ensuring that prevention efforts are both effective and sustainable.
A Unique Path to Public Health
Louise’s journey to public health leadership is both unique and inspiring. Initially, she set out to become an ER physician, driven by a desire to help people in crisis. However, her experience working in a hospital during college exposed her to the struggles of individuals dealing with substance use and mental health issues. This experience, coupled with her own battles with mental health, shifted her focus from reactive medicine to proactive prevention, eventually leading her to the Prevention Network.
Recognizing Resilience: The Arthur Ashe Award
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Louise is also a survivor of Larry Nassar’s abuse, and her advocacy efforts were recognized in 2019 when she, along with other survivors, received the Arthur Ashe Award from ESPN. This significant recognition highlights her resilience and dedication to supporting others who have faced similar challenges.
Early Inspirations and Career Shifts
Louise’s initial aspirations were shaped by her environment, particularly her family’s experiences with healthcare. Her early desire to become a doctor was driven by a deep-seated need to help others. However, as her interests evolved, she found a way to blend her passion for teaching with public health, influenced by her mother’s career as a teacher.
Mental Health and Public Health: A Personal Connection
Louise openly discusses her struggles with anxiety and depression, which have informed her understanding of the complex relationship between mental health and physical health. Her personal experiences have been invaluable in her role at the Prevention Network, where she advocates for mental health awareness and support, emphasizing the importance of addressing the psychological and social factors that impact health.
Transitioning to Leadership
Louise’s involvement with the Prevention Network began in an administrative capacity, despite her limited knowledge of substance misuse prevention at the time. However, her dedication to health promotion and support for college students helped her transition into a successful administrative role. Her work as the Michigan Higher Education Network coordinator, particularly the development of the cannabis prevention toolkit, earned her recognition as the Preventionist of the Year in 2019.
Rising to the Challenge: Becoming the Interim Executive Director
In 2020, Louise stepped into the role of interim executive director at Prevention Network, a significant challenge given the organization’s financial struggles and the uncertainty of the pandemic. Despite having only four years of experience, Louise’s proactive approach and commitment to the organization’s mission helped her lead it through a period of strategic planning, board development, and leadership initiatives.
The Importance of Mentorship
Louise credits much of her success to the mentorship and support she received from experienced advisors. This guidance was crucial in her development as a leader, demonstrating the importance of having a strong support network during critical career junctures.
Balancing Work and Well-being
Balancing a high-stress role with personal well-being is essential, and Louise shares her strategies for maintaining this balance. She finds solace in connecting with friends through board games, movies, and dinners, as well as traveling with her partner. These activities help her recharge and stay focused, ensuring that she can continue to lead effectively.
Conclusion
Louise Montag’s journey from aspiring doctor to public health leader is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of passionate leadership. As she continues to lead the Prevention Network, her dedication to creating healthier communities through proactive prevention measures serves as a beacon of hope and strength.
For more information about Louise Montag and the Prevention Network, you can reach out through the following contact details:
– Phone: 517-393-6890 (Ask for Louise)
– Email: louiseh@preventionnetwork.org
– Website: PreventionNetwork.org
Thank you for joining us on this episode of Mission Control. Be sure to subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform and give us a review. If you know someone whose journey you’d like to hear about, please email us at missioncontrol@unroduce.com. See you next time in the control center!
MIPRENEUR-2024 Marketing Trends
We’ll leave pointless speculation about AI at the door and instead focus on three key trends in the marketing industry:
1. As consumer behavior evolves, neuroscience grows increasingly important.
2. There is a continued shift towards freelance and fractional talent.
3. Content saturation is having a ripple impact on brands of all sizes.
PRESENTER:
Tim Haines — Tim Haines lives at the intersection of marketing, people, and technology. He sold his first marketing agency in 2023 after spending ten years building it.
CLIENT STORY: Ingham County Clerk – Michigan’s Proposal 2 Explained
In the wake of Michigan’s 2022 passage of Proposal 2, the state’s voting rights landscape has undergone significant change. This new legislation, driven by the collaborative efforts of lawmakers and election officials like Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum, has introduced several critical modifications to make voting more accessible, secure, and straightforward for the state’s registered voters. With these changes now in effect, Michigan’s electoral process is set to become more inclusive and efficient, beginning with the 2024 elections.
Key Changes in Proposal 2
Proposal 2’s most notable feature is the expansion of early in-person voting opportunities for Michigan voters. Under this new law, every voter in the state is guaranteed a minimum of nine days of early voting. This provision is designed to accommodate the varying needs of communities, allowing local authorities the flexibility to extend this period if necessary. The early voting process mirrors that of Election Day, maintaining all the standard procedures and security measures to ensure the integrity of the vote.
Ahead of each state and federal election, local clerks will inform voters of their area’s designated early voting sites. Upon arrival at these sites, voters will undergo an identity verification process conducted by an election inspector, which can be completed with a photo ID or via an affidavit. After verification, voters will receive a ballot to cast their vote on-site, completing the process by inserting their ballot into a tabulator.
Early Voting Procedures
The early voting process in Michigan has been designed to be as straightforward and secure as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what voters can expect:
1. Notification: Voters will receive information from their local clerk about the location of early voting sites.
2. Arrival: During the specified voting period, voters should proceed to their designated early voting site.
3. Identity Verification: An election inspector will verify each voter’s identity through a photo ID or a sworn affidavit.
4. Ballot Issuance: Voters will be issued a ballot once verified.
5. Voting: Voters will cast their ballots and insert them into a tabulator, just as they would on Election Day.
6. Sticker: After voting, voters can collect their “I Voted” sticker as a token of their participation in the democratic process.
Early Voting for Absentee Ballot Holders
An additional provision under Proposal 2 allows absentee ballot holders to participate in early voting. A few days before Election Day, those who have received absentee ballots can bring their completed ballots to an early voting site and insert them into the tabulator. While the tabulators will process these ballots and track the votes cast each day, the actual results will be available once the polls close on Election Day.
Ensuring Election Security
Michigan’s election officials, including local and county clerks, are committed to making the voting process as secure as it is accessible. The changes introduced by Proposal 2 are not just about convenience but also about safeguarding the integrity of the election process. By expanding early voting opportunities and enhancing procedures for absentee ballots, Michigan strives to ensure that every voter’s voice is heard while maintaining the highest election security standards.
Why Your Vote Matters
The changes to Michigan’s voting laws underscore the importance of participating in the democratic process. Whether voting early, on Election Day, or by absentee ballot, every vote counts. These expanded voting rights and new procedures are designed to make it easier and safer for all registered voters in Michigan to exercise their right to vote.
How to Get More Information
For those who have questions about the new voting procedures, how to register to vote, or how to vote absentee, Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum encourages reaching out for more information. Voters can call her office at 517-676-7201, email clerk@ingham.org, or visit Michigan.gov/vote for comprehensive resources on all aspects of the voting process.
As Michigan progresses with these new voting rights and procedures, the message is clear: Your vote matters. So, get out and vote in the upcoming elections and be a part of shaping the future of your community and state.
Match. Recognition. Bigs. Foster. – UnoDeuce Visual Storytelling for July 2024
Four stories were told in July 2024, and we will showcase them visually. Watch as we show our premiere visual storytelling with MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, United Way South Central Michigan, Big Brothers Big Sisters Capital Region, and Child and Family Charities. For the full video of each of these, please visit our Vimeo channel.
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EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Marketing with Empathy: How Kindness Shapes Customer Journeys
Recently on Expert Connexions, we highlighted how employing kindness may be just the underutilized strategy you need to emphasize to create a more thriving company culture and achieve genuine success in your business.
In today’s short but jam-packed episode, we take this idea further, diving into how empathizing with customers’ needs and challenges can reshape your approach to user experience (UX) and marketing.
Learn the importance of not just starting with empathy in your marketing but carrying it throughout the entire customer experience; discover how to embed kindness and understanding into every touchpoint, ensuring your customers feel seen and valued at every stage!
Tune in for insights that can elevate your business by prioritizing the human side of your strategy, and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes!
CLIENT STORY: Ingham County Health Department: Life-Changing Home Visiting Programs in Ingham County
Ingham County’s home visiting programs provide invaluable support to pregnant and parenting families, helping them recognize and embrace their vital roles in their children’s lives. Catering to families with children up to five, these programs offer a comprehensive network of home-based and community-focused services designed to support parents and enhance child development.
What is Home Visiting?
A diverse group delivers home visiting programs of professionals, including nurses, social workers, parent educators, and community health workers. These dedicated individuals educate families on topics such as safe sleep practices, child development, and discipline approaches. They also connect families with educational groups and avarious cmmunity resources.
“The goal of home visiting is rto help parents recognize that they are the most important peoplein their child’s life.”
Who Are the Home Visitors?
In Ingham County, home visitors come from varied professional backgrounds, each bringing unique expertise to their roles:
– Nurses: Provide medical guidance and health-related support.
– Social workers: Offer emotional and mental health support, and esources for social services.
– Parent educators: Guide parents in educational and developmental activities for their children.
– Community health workers: Bridge families to community resources and services.
These professionals tailor their support to meet each family’s needs, ensuring a practical and respectful personalized approach.
Educational Support and Resource Connection
The support provided by home visiting programs is comprehensive and adaptable. Families receive guidance on crucial topics, including:
– Safe Sleep Education: Ensuring safe sleep environments for infants.
– Child Development Guidance: Understanding and supporting developmental milestones.
– Discipline Techniques: Learning positive and effective ways to guide children’s behavior.
– Community Resource Referrals: Connecting families to resources like food banks, child safety equipment, and more.
“We might provide education on things like safe sleep, approaches to discipline, or child development.”
The Tailored Approach
Home visiting programs are designed to meet families where they are, providing support that is as unique as the families themselves. This approach is especially beneficial for first-time parents, who may find parenting responsibilities overwhelming. One parent shared how, with her first child, she managed day-to-day tasks on the fly. However, with the assistance of a home visitor for her second child, she could delve deeper into educational activities and focus on what was most important for her family.
Mental and Emotional Support
Beyond practical guidance, home visiting programs offer crucial mental and emotional support. For parents who may feel isolated or overwhelmed, having a familiar visitor can significantly enhance their emotional well-being. This support also extends to children, providing them with opportunities to socialize and interact with people outside of their immediate family.
Real-Life Success Stories
The impact of home-visiting programs in Ingham County is evident in the numerous success stories shared by participating families. These programs have provided essential support in areas such as:
– Monitoring and assisting with hearing or speech concerns: Helping parents understand and address developmental delays.
– Activities tailored to child development stages: Offering age-appropriate activities that support growth and learning.
– Emotional support and validation: Offering reassurance and encouragement to parents.
To have somebody come in as a home visitor to help you clear out all of the noise, focus on essentials, and tell you, hey, you’re doing a good job, is validating.
Positive Outcomes for Children
Children with special needs have particularly benefited from early intervention and tailored therapies provided through these programs. For example, one parent shared how early home visiting helped her autistic daughter find her voice, while another parent noted significant developmental strides in her prematurely born child.
“Early on in MIHP, home visiting gave my oldest daughter a voice.”
Community and Emotional Support
In addition to practical assistance, home visiting programs foster a sense of community and emotional support that many parents lack. In a world where family and community ties are often fragmented, these programs help rebuild a sense of belonging and provide crucial support networks.
Accessible and Non-Judgmental Support
One of the standout features of Ingham County’s home visiting programs is their accessibility. They are free of cost, making them available to all families who need them. Families can enroll through various channels, including community partnerships and self-referrals.
“Families can enroll in many different ways. We get referrals from many different places. We also have many people who will refer themselves to home visiting.”
The relationship between home visitors and families is built on partnership and mutual respect. Visitors aim to support parents in setting and achieving their goals, withot judgment.
“It’s not our role to judge. We’re here to help support them.”
Conclusion
Home visiting programs in Ingham County offer a lifeline to families, providing essential support that fosters child development and parental well-being. Through educational materials, emotional support, and connections to community resources, these programs ensure that parents are not alone in their parenting journey. For more information about these programs, visit the Ingham GreatStart website and explore the “Local Leadership Group” section.
Ultimately, these programs empower families with the tools and support they need to thrive, making a lasting, positive impact on their lives and communities.