In Episode 12, they interview

Representative Angela Witwer: 

Background:

Angela Witwer is a Democratic Michigan state representative known for her long-standing community involvement, healthcare background, and leadership in state budgeting.

Before entering politics, Witwer spent 22 years in clinical health care at Sparrow Hospital, working in the burn unit, pediatric rehabilitation, and later in community relations and marketing.

Witwer was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2018 and currently represents the 76th District, which includes much of Eaton County. She has served as chair of the House Appropriations Committee, overseeing Michigan’s state budget. Her legislative work has included securing funding for local services, supporting public education, and advocating for seniors.

She has also held numerous community leadership roles, including serving on the Waverly Community Schools Board of Education, the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation Board, and the Wharton Center for Performing Arts Advisory Council.

With hosts Becky Burtka & Lorri Rishar Jandron, their Questions:

● When you think back to being the very first guest on Bold LeadHERs a year ago, what stands out to you about that conversation or that moment in time?

● How have you seen the podcast evolve over the past year, and what does it mean to you to return for the anniversary episode?
● In the year since that first episode, what has changed most for you as a leader?
● What’s one defining moment in your public service career that continues to guide you?
● What do you believe women leaders uniquely bring to policymaking and public life?
● What practices or mindsets help you stay grounded and resilient in a demanding political environment?
● What’s the next chapter for you personally, professionally, or legislatively?
● When you think about your long-term impact, what legacy do you hope to leave for Michigan and for women leaders?
● What message would you share with the next generation of women stepping into leadership roles?
● How does it feel to come full circle and return to the show where you were the very first guest?
● A book you love, a leader you admire, and a habit that keeps you sharp.

For segments 4 and 5 was a conversation with Rebecca O’Connell, who brings 25 years of experience leading policy initiatives that address community and private‑sector challenges across local, state, and federal government. Before joining Consumers Energy, she served as Head of Government Affairs at Lake Trust Credit Union and Vice Chair of America’s Credit Unions’ Legislative Committee. Her advocacy has earned national recognition, including the 2021 NAFCU Paul Revere Award and the 2023 Habitat for Humanity of Michigan Advocate of the Year Award.

Rebecca has served on numerous advisory boards, including Habitat for Humanity of Michigan, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Inclusiv, and the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan. Her recent work includes helping establish a Michigan CDFI fund that delivered nearly $100 million to credit unions, generating a billion‑dollar impact for low‑ and moderate‑income residents. She also partnered with Habitat for Humanity to create an innovative mortgage product expanding access to homeownership.

One of her proudest achievements is helping pass Michigan’s Cottage Kitchen Law, which opened doors for food entrepreneurs and contributed to the state’s thriving farmers market economy. Becky has recently started working with Project Green, a non-profit that empowers financial capability in our community and implements advocacy initiatives that tear down systemic barriers to economic success as a chairwoman.

Their discussion covered these questions:
● You’ve spent 25 years shaping policy across Michigan. When you look back, what moment or experience most defined the leader you are today?
● In your new role as chair of a Women’s Economic initiative, what inspires you to be a champion for women in Michigan?
● The Bold LeadHERs Podcast is celebrating one year. What has been the biggest change for you this past year?
● You’ve worked at every level: local, state, federal. What makes Michigan’s policy landscape unique, especially here at the Mackinac Policy Conference?
● Which project are you most proud of, and why?
● The Michigan CDFI fund you helped champion delivered nearly $100 million in support. What did it take to make that happen?
● What does effective advocacy look like in 2026?
● Many leaders struggle with navigating complex systems. What advice would you give to someone trying to create change in a space that feels overwhelming?
● You’ve served on multiple different boards; how do you choose where to invest your leadership energy?
● As a woman leading in policy and corporate spaces, what challenges have shaped you the most?
● What conversations happening here at Mackinac feel most urgent for Michigan’s future?
● What’s the next big challenge or opportunity you’re excited to tackle?
● What does being a bold leader mean to you today?