Michigan's LARA launches new podcast to discuss regulatory landscape

Marlon I. Brown, DPA Director
Marlon I. Brown, DPA Director | Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) has introduced its inaugural podcast, "LARA Living Room," during the Mackinac Policy Conference. This podcast, released twice a month, aims to provide listeners with insights into the department's operations, including its policies and enforcement efforts.

LARA Director Marlon I. Brown expressed that the podcast serves as a platform to engage with various audiences and enhance understanding of LARA's role in ensuring safety and promoting business growth across Michigan. He stated, “At LARA, our mission is to protect the public, promote business growth, and ensure safety, fairness, and accountability across Michigan.”

Anastasha Osborn, LARA’s Assistant Deputy Director, will host the podcast. It will feature interviews with department staff and leadership to offer perspectives on how LARA operates within diverse industries. The episodes are designed to provide licensees, partners, stakeholders, lawmakers, and employees with a comprehensive view of Michigan’s regulatory framework.

The podcast intends to address significant issues affecting Michiganders by discussing topics such as regulations in collaboration with the Michigan legislature, oversight of cannabis and liquor industries, healthcare regulation, licensing of professionals in healthcare and other occupations.

The first episode is now available for listeners in the "LARA Living Room," with subsequent episodes scheduled for release every two weeks.