Transforming Lansing Through Tourism | Julie Pingston, Choose Lansing | Mission Control Podcast

Julie Pingston, President & CEO of Choose Lansing, shares her journey from Washington D.C. politics to leading Lansing’s tourism industry. In this episode, she discusses Lansing’s transformation, launching the Choose Lansing rebrand, and guiding the community through the pandemic.

Julie Pingston
President & CEO, Choose Lansing
🌐 lansing.org
📧 [email protected]

00:00 – Introduction
Paul introduces the Mission Control Podcast and today’s guest, Julie Pingston.

02:15 – From Politics to Tourism
,Julie’s early career in Washington, D.C., and how she unexpectedly found her passion in hospitality and tourism.

06:40 – Why Lansing?
How Lansing’s mix of government, university energy, arts, and culture creates a one-of-a-kind destination.

12:30 – Lansing’s Transformation
From shuttered storefronts to downtown renewal, Julie recalls the city’s evolution and the role of the Lugnuts’ stadium and Old Town revival.

19:55 – Leading Through Crisis
Julie’s first day as CEO in March 2020—navigating shutdowns, furloughs, and finding ways to support restaurants, hotels, and frontline workers.

28:10 – Choose Lansing Rebrand
The bold decision to retire the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau name and launch Choose Lansing at Spartan Stadium.

34:25 – Tourism as Community Growth
How bringing in visitors supports local businesses and creates long-term opportunities.

40:50 – Finding Balance
including incorporating her leadership styleJulie’s joys: golf, reading, traveling to visit her kids, and keeping a little Disney “pixie dust.”

45:30 – Closing Thoughts

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