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Mark Maynard is an Ypsilanti figurehead and a successful blogger with an impressive following. After graduating from the University of Michigan in 1993, he moved out of state, and in 1999 moved back to Ypsilanti for good.

Jesse studied anthropology at University of Michigan-Dearborn, but has always had a passion for the bar and restaurant scene. He is a managing partner at The Wurst Bar in Ypsilanti, The Alehouse in Ohio, and manager at Kelley’s Island House in Ohio.

During their conversation with Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK, Mark and Jesse explain why they decided to plant roots in Ypsilanti, and how they came up with the name Landline Creative. Mark and Jesse elaborate on why their location is so attractive to the creative minds in the Ypsilanti area. They also talk about how they were able to accomplish this endeavor through the support of SPARK, Washtenaw County, and the Innovate Ypsi program.

Listen to the podcast on SoundCloud.