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

Relevance, Resonance, and Community—An Audience-Centered Approach to Programming

  • April 9, 2025
  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
  • Great Lakes Center for the Arts

An arts organization’s programming conveys a lot about its values and purpose. How can we present “great art” that also speaks to our community in a way that encourages deeper participation and patron loyalty? How can we best balance artistic ambition with accessibility? We look forward to a spirited discussion about how artistic leaders can support one another in finding the sometimes-elusive balance between serving as “taste-makers” and providing experiences that are responsive to our audience's interests.

Facilitator: Matthew Kacergis

Matthew Kacergis is an arts executive, performer, and creative serving as Artistic Director of the Great Lakes Center for the Arts in Petoskey, MI. A professional actor and vocalist for nearly two decades, he has appeared on stages nationwide, including Ford’s Theatre and the 5th Avenue Theatre. Previously, he spent five years with the DeVos Institute of Arts Management, co-authoring strategic plans and mentoring cultural leaders. Kacergis holds a BA in Arts Management from UMASS Amherst and splits his time between Northern Michigan and Seattle.

Audience: Who is this for?

This session is designed for:

  • Art & culture administrators

Register Here

Inclusive Narratives: Creative Public History

  • April 23, 2025
  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
  • Location TBD

Join us for a conversation led by Dr. Emily Modrall as we explore how public history can expand beyond traditional narratives to embrace creativity and inclusivity. This session will delve into the intersections of history and artistry, illustrating how creative interpretations—like the Anishinaabe Trails History Project Marker—can powerfully honor and elevate the story of people and place. Together, we’ll discuss innovative ways to frame and share the past, envisioning new possibilities that connect history with our shared present and future.

Facilitator: Emily Modrall, Ph.d.

A graduate of Interlochen Center for the Arts, Emily earned a B.A. from the University of Michigan and an M.Phil. from the University of Cambridge. She holds a Ph.D. in Mediterranean archaeology from the University of Pennsylvania and was awarded Fulbright and Kolb Fellowships in support of her doctoral research in Rome and Sicily. In her work as a board member for the Traverse Area Historical Society, she has been administrating the Kchi Wiikwedong Anishinaabe trail marker project. 

Audience: Who is this for?

This session is designed for:

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

Register Here

 

How to Foster a Culture of Innovation

  • November 5, 2025
  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
  • Location: TBD, Little Traverse

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 at Northwestern Michigan College, business development at AquaAction, and her growth strategy consulting business, Illuminate Opportunity LLC, 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, she serves on the Grand Traverse Bay Watershed Center board, volunteers as a Grand Traverse Lighthouse Keeper, is one of the founding members of the Office of Possibilities, and is a Traverse Connect Ambassador and Creative Coast Northern Navigator.

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

  • November 12, 2025
  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
  • Location: TBD; Traverse City

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