McLean Media Founder Don F. McLean Named One of Michigan’s Most Inspiring Leaders by Corp! Magazine

Recognition honors McLean’s leadership, entrepreneurship and impact across public relations, marketing, education, and Michigan’s business community

DETROIT (August 21, 2026) – McLean Media, an award-winning public relations and content marketing agency, today announced that president and founder Don F. McLean, MBA has been named one of Michigan’s Most Inspiring Leaders by Corp! Magazine, recognizing his leadership, innovation, and influence across Michigan’s business and communications communities.

McLean was honored during Corp! Magazine’s 2026 MVPs and Michigan’s Inspiring Leaders celebration on August 20 at The Colony Club in Detroit. The annual program recognizes visionaries helping shape the future of business and community, alongside winners of the 11th Annual MVP Awards honoring dynamic Michigan business leaders driving growth across the state.

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“This recognition means a lot because I’ve always believed that success becomes much more meaningful when you can use it to help other people succeed,” said McLean. “I’ve tried to build McLean Media around that idea by helping good people and great companies earn the attention they deserve, opening doors whenever I can and sharing what I’ve learned along the way. To be recognized among leaders making an impact across Michigan is something I’m incredibly grateful for.”

McLean’s impact extends well beyond his work at McLean Media. He is the author of The In Crowd for LinkedIn Mastery, an international speaker who has presented at SXSW, the Ireland International Conference on Education, and NAGC Communications School, and an adjunct marketing professor at Madonna University. He also serves on business school advisory boards for Madonna University and Schoolcraft College.

McLean is also the creator of Press Hustle, a new platform (launching soon!) designed to make professional public relations knowledge and resources accessible to founders and small businesses that may lack the budget for traditional agency support. The initiative builds on nearly two decades of McLean’s communications experience and his belief that stronger storytelling can help promising businesses gain the visibility needed to grow.

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The evening carried additional significance for McLean Media as several of the agency’s clients were also among those recognized by Corp! Magazine. Leaders representing Gloabi, Lofty Pops, and TSRL received honors through the 2026 MVPs and Michigan’s Inspiring Leaders programs.

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“Seeing several of our clients recognized on the same evening may have been one of the most rewarding parts for me,” added McLean. “Our team gets an up-close look at the work these leaders are doing and the businesses they are building. Being able to celebrate their accomplishments alongside this recognition made the night incredibly special.”

Corp! Magazine’s Michigan’s Inspiring Leaders editorial feature highlights individuals whose leadership and influence are making a lasting impact locally and nationally. Honorees will also be featured by Corp! Magazine as part of its coverage of the 2026 recognition programs.

See more photos from the evening here: https://www.corpmagazine.com/events/2026-mvp-awards/gallery/ 

About McLean Media

McLean Media is an award-winning, strategic communications agency that helps mission-driven leaders grow their visibility and influence. Led by Don F. McLean, MBA, the firm blends public relations, content strategy, and personal brand development to position clients as trusted voices in their industries. McLean Media turns messaging into momentum by helping clients lead conversations, earn trust, and stand out where it counts. For more information, visit https://www.mcleanmedia.com. 

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