In the latest episode of The Hey, Bay City! Podcast, join John Kaczynski, Vice President of Governmental and Community Relations at Saginaw Valley State University, as he delves into the nuances of attraction and retention in Bay County and the Great Lakes Bay Region. John shares his personal and family anecdotes to highlight the significance of quality of life and sense of community. From discussing historical migration patterns to the modern-day challenges of attracting college students, graduates, and retirees, John offers a comprehensive overview of strategies aimed at fostering a vibrant, welcoming community.
John talks about the importance of hospitality, the role of transportation and housing, and the collective effort needed to create a thriving regional identity.
Watch here, on YouTube, or listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction
00:27 Exploring Attraction and Retention
01:01 Personal Stories and Community Ties
01:22 Historical Context and Family Roots
04:18 Sense of Belonging and Regional Identity
06:27 Challenges and Opportunities in Higher Education
17:27 Mobility and Infrastructure Initiatives
30:00 Creating a Culture of Hospitality
30:50 A Story of Hospitality in Indianapolis
33:49 The Power of Perception and Kindness
34:43 The Importance of Community Ambassadors
35:41 Designing Communities for All Ages
36:07 Telling Our Story: Media and Education
36:45 Celebrating Local Schools and Achievements
38:12 The Value of Regional Assets
46:50 Creative Solutions for Community Growth
52:09 The Role of Hospitality in Community Success
01:00:11 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements
