Midwest House

Can you really launch a startup hub with $5,000, no space, and a dream? Amanda Lewan did—and it didn’t stop there.
In this energizing episode of the Midwest House Podcast, host Ted Velie sits down with Amanda Lewan, co-founder and CEO of Bamboo, to explore how a scrappy coworking experiment in Detroit became one of Michigan’s most impactful startup communities. From Detroit's post-bankruptcy days to launching a 40,000-square-foot flagship in Grand Rapids, Amanda shares the behind-the-scenes story of how Bamboo has evolved into a statewide platform for founders, innovators, and underestimated entrepreneurs.
Inside this episode:
  • How Amanda helped Detroit’s startup scene take shape from scratch
  • What building real community looks like when there’s no playbook (or budget)
  • Why Bamboo’s new Grand Rapids space is more than a building—it’s a signal
  • The power of density, open access, and designing spaces where everyone belongs
  • What’s next for Michigan's east-meets-west startup ecosystem—and why now is the moment
Bonus: lessons from Detroit Startup Week, what Amanda learned from Brad Feld’s Startup Communities, and a sneak peek at her favorite up-and-coming Midwest startup.

🎯 This one’s for the builders, the connectors, and anyone who believes the Midwest is just getting started.

Creators and Guests

Guest
Amanda Lewan
Amanda Lewan is the co-founder of Bamboo, building Michigan’s innovation and creative community through coworking spaces, events, and programs for entrepreneurs.
Guest
Ted Velie
Ted Velie is the co-founder of Start Midwest and CEO of Midwest House, connecting the Midwest’s innovators and creators to the world through community, storytelling, and shared experiences.

What is Midwest House?

A podcast experience born from the intersection of innovation and community—amplifying thought leaders, startup builders, and culture-makers in the Midwest, hosted by Midwest House in collaboration with ThinkTank.