Stephen Henderson

Michigan Public has announced the forthcoming debut of Michigan, We Need to Talk, a new weekly live call-in program launching in summer 2026 from Michigan Public and journalist Stephen Henderson.  Hosted and produced by Henderson, the show will bring together voices from across the state for thoughtful, live, unscripted conversations about the issues shaping life in Michigan. It will air statewide on Michigan Public on Thursday evenings at 8:00 p.m.

Henderson has a vision. “This show will be a space for inquiry, context, and conversation, where people can hear stories and policy perspectives about the issues that challenge us as Michiganders,” said Henderson. “They can ask questions and listen to one another in a way that feels increasingly rare. It won’t be a shouting match, adorned by insults and framed by humiliation of guests or listeners.”

“This project is grounded in a simple belief,” said Wendy Turner, Executive Director of Michigan Public. “People want more than noise. They want to understand what’s really going on and hear directly from each other. We’re proud to open our airwaves and phone lines to conversations that reflect the full range of experiences across Michigan.”

The Center for Michigan, publisher of Bridge Michigan, and Michigan Public are collaborating to provide administration and distribution support for this important and timely show.

“Inviting a more expansive understanding of our state is the core of our work,” said Katy Locker, CEO of The Center for Michigan. "This show brings that to life in a new and powerful way.”

Henderson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and one of Michigan’s most respected voices, will guide each conversation with a focus on clarity, fairness, and understanding.  “At a time when a lot of people feel talked at or talked about, this show is about talking with each other,” Henderson said. “We’re making space for real conversation.”

Listeners can sign up to get show information and updates at miweneedtotalk.org

Michigan Public will provide the technical and distribution support, ensuring all Michiganders can participate. The Center for Michigan is the fiscal sponsor for the project.  Funding for the project is provided by a grant from The Kresge Foundation.  Additional details about the show’s schedule and format will be announced ahead of its summer launch.