Caffeinated Conversations

Conversations on art and culture

Caffeinated Conversations

This program is designed to go beyond the traditional networking event to facilitate real, meaningful relationships through robust topical discussion.

We are curating a list of facilitators with unique perspective or expertise to guide discussion on timely topics related to art, culture and the intersections with our lives in community.

These engaging sessions start with some social time, followed by discussions guided by curated facilitators with a unique perspective on a specific, timely topic. Engage with peers in the creative community around themed conversations that respond to the evolving needs of the arts and culture sector.

  • The cost for this program is underwritten by our supporters
  • Free to attend

How to Foster a Culture of Innovation

Join us for an interactive discussion about how to foster a culture of innovation within your organization. Together, we'll learn about the importance of innovation regardless of the type or size of your organization, best practices that you can implement today, and we'll share peer-to-peer learnings as intrapraneurs and entrepreneurs.

Facilitator: Brittany VanderBeek

Brittany VanderBeek has spent her career at the intersection of business, higher education, and the nonprofit world, championing business as a force for good and preparing the next generation for successful careers. Through sustainability consulting at BrownFlynn, Michelin’s Global Leadership Program, corporate giving and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy at Hagerty, fund development and community engagement at 20Fathoms, teaching innovation and entrepreneurship at Northwestern Michigan College and Grand Valley State University, starting her own innovation and growth strategy consulting business, Illuminate Opportunity LLC, and now leading U.S. business development for AquaAction, Brittany illuminates opportunities for people and organizations to innovate and positively impact on the world. She has an International MBA from the University of South Carolina and a BBA from the University of Michigan. In the community, you’ll find her on the water everyday throughout Michigan – whether training for the Detroit Marathon on the Detroit River, running with the Traverse City Track Club on Grand Traverse West Bay, or volunteering as a Grand Traverse Lighthouse Keeper.

Audience: Who is this for?

This session is designed for:

  • Art & culture administrators
  • Creative sector entrepeneurs

Register Here

A Soul for Northern Michigan: Amplifying the Arts in our Region

Join Peter Payette for a conversation about the role of arts and culture in shaping and defining the identity of Northwest Michigan. Explore how the creative sector can move to become a central and celebrated aspect of our region's character in the way we think of dunes and cherries. Together, we’ll discuss strategies to amplify the impact of the arts and make them an integral part of what makes our community unique.

Facilitator: Peter Payette

Peter Payette is the Executive Director of Interlochen Public Radio, where he has led the station since 2016. With a journalism career spanning over two decades, he has reported extensively on issues critical to the culture and economy of northern Michigan. Under Peter's leadership, IPR is dedicated to uncovering and sharing the people and stories that shape the community's identity.

Audience: Who is this for?

This session is designed for:

  • Art & culture professionals / administrators
  • Individual creatives
  • Broader creative community

Register Here

Previous Topics

In response to the topics our members have shared the greatest need for educational opportunities. These programs have been offered in different locations across NW Michigan, and may be offered again across the region.

  • Balancing and Juggling: Navigating Complex Cultural Issues w/ Sheila Ruen
  • Getting Curious About Art That Makes Us Uncomfortable w/ Dr. Kate Korroch
  • Audience Centered Approach to Programming w/ Matthew Kacergis
  • Creative Public History w/ Dr. Emily Modrall