MLCC On The Road

Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC)

The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  The MLCC On The Road podcast will provide helpful information for businesses, licensees, local governmental units, and anyone interested in the alcoholic beverage industry in Michigan.The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc. To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov.

  1. May 20

    How Michigan’s Control State Model Helps Craft Distillers Grow

    We recorded this episode on location at the Michigan Craft Beverage Summit in Muskegon, bringing in three voices who live this every day: Richard Anderson (Iron Fish Distillery), Jon O’Connor (Long Road Distillers and president of the Michigan Craft Distillers Association), and Larry Cekola (Imperial Beverage, one of Michigan’s Authorized Distribution Agents). Together, we unpack how the MLCC’s control state structure intersects with the three-tier system, why listing and access-to-market matter, and what equal access looks like for retailers across the state. We also get practical about distribution reality: delivering spirits across two peninsulas, through snowstorms, and into remote communities, with a requirement to serve all 83 counties every week. Then we zoom out to the business side, including self-distribution as a learning tool, the tasting room license as an entry point, and how the Qualified Distiller Program changes the economics for producers who use Michigan grain. If you care about craft spirits, alcohol regulation, or how supply chains shape what ends up in your glass, this conversation connects the dots. Subscribe for more MLCC On the Road, share this with someone in the industry, and leave a review with your biggest question about Michigan’s spirits system. The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov. The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

  2. Apr 15

    Death & Taxes

    As the old saying goes, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.  In this episode we unpack how estates, probate, and taxes intersect with liquor licensing and what steps keep a business compliant when an owner dies or owes back taxes. MLCC Licensing Deputy Director Jackie Anthony joins us to explain documents, approvals, levies, seizures, and the practical paths forward. • Difference between active operation and escrow authority • Documents MLCC needs after a death • Approvals, denials, escrow-only decisions and appeals • Trusts, transfer-on-death and ownership transfers • Letters of authority timing and follow ups • License holds, renewals and enforcement checks • How a personal representative transfers interest to self • Spouse ownership structures and survivorship • What a Treasury levy triggers and how to resolve it • Seizures, tax warrants, auctions and license value For more information on the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov. The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

  3. Mar 20

    What To Expect When You Are Expecting... A Liquor License!

    Paperwork doesn’t sell your first drink, but it absolutely decides when you can. We take you behind the scenes of Michigan’s liquor licensing process with Sherry Ashton, a supervisor who’s guided thousands of files from first submission to final issuance. Together we unpack the checkpoints that matter most—what “complete application” truly means, why fingerprinting now triggers later by staff request, and how one missing lease clause can stall an entire timeline. From there, we map the enforcement investigation: the records investigators request, what they look for on site, and how your communication sets the tempo. We get candid about violations—often sitting with the seller—that can freeze a buyer’s file until fines or escrow terms resolve. Then we shift to administration review and show how analysts move files to consent agendas or build detailed syllabi for commissioner decisions. We highlight the small details that protect your timeline: reading commission orders line by line, responding to deficiency notices, understanding added fees when permits change, and notifying staff immediately when financing shifts. Finally, we demystify denials and appeals. Most denials that reach appeal are remanded for more information or reversed when applicants show clear funding, a practical operating plan, and strong compliance steps. Hearings happen over WebEx, making it easy to present your case. If your goal is a smooth opening, this guide offers the steps to get there: complete documentation, honest disclosures, tight coordination with investigators, and disciplined follow‑through on orders and fees. If this helped you plan your path to a Michigan liquor license, subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov. The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

  4. Feb 20

    Getting Ready For The 2026 License Renewal

    In this episode, we break down how to renew your Michigan liquor license in the upcoming liquor license renewal period that starts on March 1, 2026.  We discuss club certifications and brewer barrel counts, MILogin pitfalls, payment timing, escrow rules, triennial renewals for Salesperson licenses, and the new tools that make printing licenses faster. Links Discussed In This Episode: MLCC Renewal Portal Link: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/lcc/renewalFor more information on or to register for the Michigan Craft Beverage Summit, please visit the Craft Beverage Council's website at MichiganCraftBeverage.comCommission Approved Salesperson Accreditation Programs:Michigan Salesperson License Accreditation Program - mbwwasaleslicense.orgProgram managed by Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association - Phone: 517-482-5555 ext. 215 Michigan Brewers Guild’s Michigan Salesperson License Accreditation Program - https://www.mibeer.com/Training/HomeProgram managed by Michigan Brewers Guild - Phone: 517-327-5004 The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov. The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

  5. Jan 12

    What Endures When Laws Change: Tracing Michigan’s Alcohol Policy From 1774 To Now

    We trace Michigan’s liquor laws from 1774 merchant rules to modern regulation, showing how taverns, quotas, Sunday bans, and “forever” prohibition shaped today’s safeguards. The throughline is simple: protect public welfare while supporting responsible commerce. • 1770s Detroit merchant rules and self-imposed fines • Early territorial licenses, fees, and local enforcement • 1838 reforms on credit, intoxication, Sunday sales • Location-specific premises and the meaning of “tavern” • Restrictions near churches and the short-lived on-premises ban • Township welfare protections and spendthrift limits • Local option, dry counties, and failed early prohibition • Oddities: cemetery buffers, crackers and pretzels, ad bans with ex-presidents • Quotas tied to population and standard hours • 1916 “forever” prohibition and 1932 repeal • Birth of the Liquor Control Commission and control-state model The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov. The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

  6. 09/24/2025

    From Alpacas to Zebras: The Lewis Adventure Farm Story

    Step into the enchanting world of agritourism at Lewis Adventure Farm and Zoo, where four generations of farming heritage have blossomed into one of Michigan's most beloved family destinations. Nestled just six miles from Lake Michigan between Muskegon and Ludington, this 500-acre haven welcomes 160,000 visitors annually to experience the perfect blend of agriculture, exotic animals, and family entertainment.  What began as a simple market has evolved into a destination employing over 160 people during peak season, demonstrating the significant economic impact of agritourism on rural communities. Owner Scott Lewis guides us through his family's remarkable journey, from traditional fruit farming to creating an immersive destination where children squeal with delight in corn boxes while parents enjoy craft cocktails and homemade pizza. The farm's menagerie of exotic residents—including kangaroos, sloths, capybaras, lemurs, and camels—creates unforgettable hands-on encounters for visitors of all ages. As Scott explains, "We want you to see stuff that you've never seen before, touch things that you've never touched before, and create memories with your family." This conversation captures the essence of modern agricultural tourism—where traditional farming practices meet innovative entertainment experiences, creating spaces where multiple generations can connect through shared wonder and discovery. Whether you're planning your next family outing or dreaming of starting your own agritourism venture, this episode offers a heartwarming glimpse into how one Michigan farm family's vision created an extraordinary place where memories are made and cherished for years to come. The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov. The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

  7. 09/16/2025

    Taste the History, Toast to Revival - Detroit City Distillery

    Join hosts Sara Weber and David Marvin at 100 Proof, Detroit City Distillery's new event space, as they sit down with Sales Manager Jamie Wright and Brand Development Manager Dante Desaro to uncork the fascinating journey behind this Michigan success story. The conversation flows from amusing beginnings—a bachelor party where the wedding never happened but a distillery was born—to the thoughtful business strategy that guided their expansion from Eastern Market to the historic Stroh's Ice Cream factory. At the heart of Detroit City Distillery's philosophy is an unwavering commitment to Michigan-grown ingredients. The team reveals how they source 97% of their products from local grain, including a special strain of Michigan rye grown exclusively for them. This dedication to local sourcing doesn't just support Michigan agriculture—it creates spirits with distinctive flavor profiles that have earned loyal fans across the state. The podcast delves into the creative process behind innovative products like their viral Paczki Vodka (distilled from actual Polish pastries) and their artful label designs that tell stories of Detroit's rich history. Each bottle serves as a canvas for storytelling, from the image of founder JP Jerome's bootlegger grandfather on their flagship Butcher's Cut Bourbon to the Michigan Central Station depicted on Railroad Gin. Perhaps most compelling is how Detroit City Distillery demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, pivoting within hours to produce hand sanitizer and creating their special release "Shutdown Bourbon" as a symbol of Detroit's ability to rise from adversity. The team shares valuable insights for aspiring distillers: stay flexible, chase quality over trends, and above all, remain authentic to your vision. Whether you're a spirits enthusiast, an entrepreneur, or simply someone who appreciates a great Michigan success story, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the craft, creativity, and community behind every bottle of Detroit City Distillery spirits. The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov. The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

    Taste the History, Toast to Revival - Detroit City Distillery

  8. 08/13/2025

    Data, Policy, and Public Safety: NABCA's Role in Alcohol Control

    National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA) President Neal Insley joins MLCC Chair Kristin Beltzer for an insightful conversation about how control states balance commerce with public health through data-driven regulation and education. • NABCA is a non-advocacy organization providing unbiased, factual data to its 17 member control states and other alcoholic beverage industry stakeholders • Control states reflect diverse community needs while maintaining consistent regulation and public health protections • Education and outreach to licensees creates transparency and compliance rather than simply "licensing and walking away" • NABCA partners with over 30 universities on research projects related to alcohol policy and public health The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov. The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

    Data, Policy, and Public Safety: NABCA's Role in Alcohol Control
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Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  The MLCC On The Road podcast will provide helpful information for businesses, licensees, local governmental units, and anyone interested in the alcoholic beverage industry in Michigan.The mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc. To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email mlccinfo2@michigan.gov.

Information

  • Creator
    Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC)
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 MLCC On The Road
  • Show Website
    MLCC On The Road