Legal doesn’t have to mean complicated. In this episode, Host Anastasha chats with Nick, Director of LARA’s Legal Affairs Office (LAO), about how legal expertise supports collaboration, good decision making, and smart regulation.

LARA’s impact is often felt in the moments people don’t think twice about. From inspections to licensing, this episode explores how behind-the-scenes work helps keep Michiganders safe and supported.

Impact is more than a word at LARA. This episode sets the tone for Season Two, introducing LARA’s 2026 Word of the Year and sharing how storytelling will help highlight the real-life difference LARA’s work makes across Michigan.

Director Marlon Brown reflects on the future of LARA communications, the power of storytelling, “One LARA” culture, and the 2026 initiatives driving innovation and engagement.

We’re joined by Director Marlon Brown to explore 2026 regulatory trends, leadership transitions, tech-driven improvements, and insights from the Cutting Red Tape report shaping LARA’s future.

In this episode, Director Claire Patterson shares how Michigan’s Cannabis Reference Laboratory strengthens cannabis testing, recalls, and consumer protection. Setting national standards for safe, trusted products.

Executive Director Suzanne Sonneborn explains MOAHR’s mission as a Type 1 agency: fair hearings, effective rulemaking, and serving the people of Michigan.

https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/moahr

Learn how LARA processes FOIA requests, why public access to records matters, and how transparency supports trust in state government.