It's one thing to be a part of your community–but truly building community is another feat entirely. From supporting small businesses to collaborating on large-scale events, what does it take to build, cultivate and maintain a positive neighborhood and community for entrepreneurs, business owners and residents alike?

Our first guest, Meghan Martin, knows a thing or two about supporting local creatives. As interim executive director of the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, she shares her insight on all things community: how we can support local art, the process of managing artists, and what creative placemaking really means.

Later, we introduce our second guest: Summer Schriner, owner of retail shops Bad Annie's and Grace Boutique in Old Town, Lansing. After spending two decades in the Old Town community, she's gained a strong foothold on what it takes to cultivate a safe, inviting and prosperous space. From the day-to-day of owning two businesses to how to deal with (literal) shit, Summer shares how she gets the job done.

Mentioned in this episode: The Death and Life of Great American Cities by Jane Jacobs