MI Best: An MLive Podcast

Today we talk with Bruce Bylsma about celebrating this holiday season at Emerald Springs, one of the newest Eastbrook Homes communities. Emerald Springs is located in Allendale, MI, a fast-growing city that is home to Grand Valley State University, Grand Ravines North County Park, Trail Point Brewing Company and so much more.

Today we talk with Amanda Smit, an interior designer with Eastbrook Homes. She walks us through how to design your ideal home, and how her work at Eastbrook Homes has let her help people create a place that is truly, uniquely their own.

In this episode, we talk about the Hope Forward program at Hope College and how it is changing the broken economic model in higher education.

Today on the podcast we talk with Kelly Kuiper, Eastbrook Homes' Manager of Land planning and Community Development - she and her team are responsible for the first steps in creating an Eastbrook Homes community.

Today, Eric talks with University of Michigan volleyball coach Erin Virtue as she takes U of M to the 2024 Olympics for another chance at gold. Plus we talk with Erin about her second season as head coach of the University of Michigan's Women's Volleyball team.

Munising Visitors Bureau's president, Cori-Ann Cearley, joins us to discuss summer happenings around the home of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. From brewery expansions to the best way to engage the shoreline, here's what to include in your itinerary.

In this episode, we are talking with speaker, author, and dear friend to the host Skot Welch. Skot will talk about not just some of the events around Michigan for Juneteenth but also the cultural and historical implications of this important holiday. 

In this episode of "At Home with Eastbrook Homes," we sit down with Becky Sims, Senior Loan Officer at Lake Michigan Credit Union, to delve into the current mortgage rates and offer crucial advice for prospective homebuyers in 2024. Becky discusses the challenges of low housing inventory and high interest rates, providing insights into how potential buyers can still make informed decisions. She emphasizes the importance of consulting with a loan officer to understand what you can truly afford versus what the guidelines might suggest. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the state of the housing market, practical tips for navigating it, and what the future might hold for homebuyers.

In today's podcast episode, we delve into the natural beauty and sublime attractions of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with Hannah Bradburn, the Communications Director for the Park Services Department. Hannah opens up about her professional trajectory, from her initial work with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to her current responsibilities at the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. During the discussion, she highlights some significant developments within the park, including a record number of visitors in 2021. Responding to the influx of over a million visitors, the park introduced an entrance fee to help bolster and maintain essential park facilities. Hannah breaks down the various types of passes and how they can be purchased. The podcast also covers how the park is coping with the increased visitor load by implementing numerous conservation initiatives. From revegetation efforts to monitoring inland lakes for invasive species, Hannah sheds light on the park's dedicated efforts to ensure the health and longevity of its delicate ecosystem. Hannah also provides valuable advice to first-time visitors and stresses the importance of respecting safety rules when venturing out on the waters of Lake Superior. The episode concludes with a brief mention of the upcoming 150th anniversary of the Au Sable Light Station, calling it a "commanding white beacon of the shipwreck coast" and inviting listeners to participate in its celebration.

Join us in this podcast episode as we explore the magic of the upcoming total solar eclipse with expert Emily Bingham. Get the lowdown on why this specific eclipse is so unique and exceptional, and discover what you need to do to experience its enchanting beauty safely. We discuss the reasons behind this eclipse's appeal, such as its occurrence during the peak of an 11-year predictable cycle, the sun's solar maximum, which leads to extraordinary solar activity and atmospheric displays. Furthermore, learn why the upcoming eclipse is being hailed as a 'must-see' due to its rarity of crossing over a significant portion of the United States. Emily piqued our curiosity with her detailed insights regarding the best places to experience the eclipse in Michigan and provided invaluable advice for those planning to witness the total eclipse. Her tips include watching the weather, establishing flexible plans, considering joining community watch parties, and prioritizing witnessing the totality of the eclipse over its partial views. Moreover, we delve into the primary practical considerations around viewing the eclipse, including ensuring you have appropriate protective eyewear or alternative viewing methods to safeguard your eyes. We also touch on interesting ways to create your own pinhole camera or use a simple household item like a colander to relish this natural phenomenon safely. Remember, viewing the solar eclipse is an extraordinary event that is both mysterious and profound. Prepare yourself adequately, respect the wonder of our universe, and enjoy a moment that won't return again until decades later.

In this episode of the "At Home with Eastbrook Homes" podcast, industry expert, Stacy Vis, shares in-depth insights on the early onset of the spring housing market. Stacy discusses the impact of weather on housing prices, the solution to low inventory, enhancing current portfolio offerings, and advice on preparing to enter the current market. The market overview provided by Stacy reveals the effects of early spring weather on market activity and sales. Stacy points out that the market has witnessed a surge in demand, driving record-breaking home sales. However, this high demand has also led to challenges in the market such as low inventory, leaving many home-buyers frustrated. With her comprehensive knowledge of the market, Stacy further gives intriguing advice to prospective homeowners on how to navigate the current market. She encourages first-time buyers to take the plunge now instead of waiting on prices to fall, as historically, they tend to keep rising. She also suggests a different approach to the traditional plan of homeownership, advising young and first-time buyers to consider starting with a townhome to initially build equity, which can then be transferred to their preferred home later. From cul-de-sac dreams to real-life implications of market trends, this episode provides a realistic perspective on the current housing market. Stacy's adept understanding of the market, coupled with her strategic recommendations, makes this episode a must-listen for anyone considering venturing into the spring housing market.

In this compelling episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of conversing with Dana Walker, Director of the Michigan Downtown Association. Our discussion centered on the science and art of building and nurturing a thriving downtown community. Drawing on her extensive experience, Dana shared valuable insights into the workings of the Michigan Downtown Association, the importance of a vibrant downtown, and the essence of successful downtown management.  

In the latest episode of 'At Home with Eastbrook Homes,' Josh McGraw provides an insightful reflection on their fruitful accomplishment in 2023, despite the end-year uncertainties. He lauds the resilience and determination of the Eastbrook Homes team, who succeeded in maintaining a positive stride throughout the year. Providing a forecasting glimpse into 2024, McGraw unveils Eastbrook Homes' exciting new ventures and ambitious housing projects in Allendale's Emerald Springs and Spring Lake's Kingfisher Estates. This expansion offers more diverse housing options and promises comfortable and serene living spaces designed for homeowner satisfaction. Moreover, their commitment to meeting dynamic customer needs is demonstrated through the roll-out of new, aesthetic, and cost-effective home plans. McGraw affirms that they're devoted to ensuring these home plans are not only practical and reasonable but also beautiful. Innovation and Practicality: The Concepts Behind Eastbrook Home's Housing DesignsExperience a deep dive into the unique, innovative concepts behind Eastbrook Home's housing plans in this enlightening episode. Discover the distinctive designs of the Haven and the Marigold - two of Eastbrook's signature townhouse and condo plans. Gain valuable understanding of the creative and strategic steps taken to transform raw land into functional, aesthetic, and budget-friendly housing. Explore how Eastbrook reimagines traditional townhouse designs to create innovative multi-unit structures that accommodate different lifestyles. Learn about the transition of the Cass, a traditional townhouse model, into the flexible Haven, and the evolution of the terrace home design into the luxurious yet affordable Marigold. We also invite the audience to a behind-the-scenes tour of Eastbrook Homes' home-building process. Get firsthand insights into how we assist homeowners in making informed choices and navigate the journey of constructing their dream homes. Understand how Eastbrook Homes crafts a seamless and effortless home-building experience with a tailored, all-in-one design process for client convenience. This episode is a must-watch for prospective homeowners, design enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the intricate merging of creativity and practicality in the homebuilding industry.

Today's episode of Michigan's Best podcast highlights the remarkable journey of Jared Gadbaw, renowned Executive Chef, and Owner of Oak and Reel. Hailing from Garden City, Michigan's humble avenues, Gadbaw made his way to the esteemed kitchens of New York, crediting his success to unswerving dedication and fervor for culinary arts. His childhood experiences in Michigan fostered an early love for food and cooking, propelling him toward a hospitality degree from Michigan State. A pivotal experience, his college life honed his culinary skills and exposed him to a dynamic kitchen environment. Jared furthered his education at the French Culinary Institute, diving deeper into his culinary ambitions. He goes behind the scenes of his stint at the prestigious Eleven Madison Park, describing the demanding environment and invaluable lessons that established the foundation of his future triumphs. Among his notable accolades, Jared earned two Michelin stars during his tenure at Marea, garnering attention on the local, national, and global stage. The episode wraps with Jared detailing his dramatic return to Michigan and the launch of his restaurant, Oak and Reel. Influenced by his connection to local seafood providers, Motor City Seafood, Jared sought to bring top-tier culinary experiences to his hometown. Showing a deep appreciation for traditional cooking techniques, Gadbaw ensures each plate served at Oak and Reel reflects the quality and natural flavors of locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, steering clear of unnecessary garnishes or trends.    

On this episode, Eric Hultgren sits down with Rob Bell to talk about his latest book which is a science fiction book called "Where'd You Park Your Spaceship." Rob and Eric talk about collecting toys, the creative process, the elimination of rules for creation and bread.

On this episode of At Home with Eastbrook Homes, Kim Southwick from Five Star stops by to tell the story of how a local, Eastbrook Homes' house became the house of choice on a recent episode of HGTV's House Hunters.

On this episode of the podcast, we talk with Kerry from Papa Chops Eatery in Grand Rapids, MI about how the restaurant came to be and how they make such incredible gluten-free food.

In this episode, Skot Welch talks about his new book Unfractured which talks about how together we can change the conversation--and change the world. We're often left in dead-end debates on racial tensions, foolishly expecting solutions from a culture obsessed with canceling and dividing. But what if the church could create a more effective dialogue?

In this episode, Eric Hultgren talks with Brian Peterson-Roest from Bees in the D about Cicada Killers, what bees do in the winter and how that relates to Seth Godin and their amazing bourbon drop coming up this week with Detroit City Distillery. 

Today on At Home with Eastbrook Homes we talk with Jeff Costello; talking through the realities of the housing market in West Michigan versus nationwide and why the Eastbrook Homes approach (helping people find or build their dream, custom, affordable home in a 'suits you to a tee' community) has helped create a nimble and successful business.

On today's episode Eric talks Suz Schalon, executive director of the Silver Beach Carousel Foundation, to learn more about the the magical 'St. Joe' carousel. How it began, and how it's going now (spoiler alert, it's enclosed now, so autumn rides are not out of the question)

In this episode of At Home with Eastbrook Homes we talk with agent Jennifer Sequin about the properties available in and around the Lansing area along with how Eastbrook works to build communities.

Tips for decorating your home for summer, with Molly Fazakerley. Molly works at LMCU but her passion is decorating homes inside and out, which is how she came to choose Eastbrook Homes for her family's home. Being able to customize her own design touches throughout the build process was a must-have and made the home buy and build process fun.

Adam joins the podcast to talk about the huge new award for Dragon's Milk Origin bourbon, shares the origin story, and gives some insight into what is coming from New Holland for the rest of the year.

We sat down with Mary Beth Kiczenski professional photographer and Great Lakes based adventurer who is currently serving as an ambassador for the Michigan State Park system, to ask about some of the best spots along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to catch the Northern Lights and perhaps some tips on getting the best shot possible.

Let's head down to southwest Michigan to talk about the Makers Trail Festival on June 10th for Southwest Michigan's premier wine, beer, cider and spirit makers all in one place. This is the perfect chance for you and your friends to try new drinks or stick with your go-to favorites.

In this episode, Eric Hultgren sits down with the owner of Vinyl Alchemy, Kevin Romanyk to talk about records, the store opening, and how the art of being a pharmacist for the past 3 decades helped advised the philosophy behind the shop

This weekend the Michigan Panthers are hosting the Pittsburgh Maulers for Kids Day so WWE Superstar and Panthers MC Big E stops by to talk football, wrestling, and his favorite stadium food.

Dr. Marcus Collins is an award-winning marketer and cultural translator with one foot in the world of practice—serving as the Chief Strategy Officer at Wieden+Kennedy New York—and one foot in the world of academia—as a marketing professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan. His new book is out today and as a proud Michigan resident, we wanted to spotlight his work in and around culture and share it with you. 

Eric Hultgren sits down with Glen Miller from Kids Read Now to talk about the summer learning gap, how Kids Read Now came into the world, and how to get your kids excited about reading. 

Since the mid-80's Wattsson & Wattsson Jewelers has had a 100ft mining museum, IN THEIR STORE! So not only can you have a custom statement piece built in-house, but also learn about local mining and gemological history, while supporting a decades-old local business. Check out our interview with Chris Wattsson to learn more.

5 professionally curated collections to enhance your home build and easy one-and-done decision-making. Today on this episode of At Home with Eastbrook Homes, we talk to Ann Wierengo, Senior Director of the Home Creation Studio at Eastbrook Homes.

In this episode brought to you by the MRA, Eric Hultgren heads to Rockford, MI to talk with Raeann Rouse of Bridge St. Baby about her beginnings in 2017 and what the store is like 5 years later. 

In this episode, Eric Hultgren sits down with Eastbrook Homes CEO, Mick McGraw to talk about the anniversary coming up and the innovation that this company has created over the past 4 decades.

Today we visit the Meauwataka General Store to talk to Pam Sandy, new-ish owner, to find out how you go from the 'bottom of the state' to owning a general store that offers a little bit of everything. And that everything includes 'meal deals' 7 days a week, a variety of smoked meats, and a continually expanding set of offerings. A little store Atop a hill In a forest - Ken Sandy

Today we talk to Dan Nadeau and Bill Thompson, to learn more about two of the things that help make Munising a Winter Playground - Ice Fest and Snowmobiling. Ice Fest 2023, runs from February 8-12. With presentations, experts, and gear, the 31st year of this ice climbing celebration continues to amaze. Set among the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore landscape, it's like 'climbing right out of Lake Superior' The Munising area offers more than 330 miles of snowmobiling trails that are consistently groomed as long as the snow lasts. With that much ground to cover, you can ride a new trail every ride. Dan talks about some of his favorite/most recommended rides.

In this episode, Eric Hultgren talks with new homeowners Matt and Stephanie about getting into a home before the holidays, the process, traditions and what they are looking forward to most. 

In our continuing series with the Michigan Retailers Association, we talk to Jordan Ritter from Hilbert's Honey Co. Operating out of Traverse City, MI for over 135 years, Hilbert's Honey has about 250 pollination locations, mostly in northern Michigan. We talk about scaling a 'niche service-product' into a larger-scale local operation and the importance of keeping their colonies in no-spray/chemical free areas.

As a consumer, how can you save money, on expert-evaluated products offered at the best prices? Today we talk with Consumers Energy's Shannon Morrow about just how Consumers Energy can help with its online store, offering customers items that can help save money on energy use.

Fresh off their pumpkin crawl, a few days into November, and with holiday songs on the radio, our talk turns to the upcoming holiday season. We sit down with the Ada Business Association and Downtown Development Authority, discussing all the events and holiday shopping that is, and will be, happening in the Ada area, the efforts over the last few years to build a thriving Ada community, and how the MRA has helped these groups to achieve this.

Today we talk to Consumers Energy's Greg Stevenson about the ways Consumers Energy is partnering with Michigan businesses to help them save money, save energy and to decarbonize their operations.

Today, on At Home with Eastbrook Homes, we talk to Kids Food Basket's Bridget Clark Whitney, CEO. Kids Food Basket is all about making sure kids and families in Kent, Allegan, Muskegon and Ottawa counties heave easy access to nutritious food and education throughout the year. We talk through their farms, the nearly 10,000 kids they serve, and how the rising costs of healthy food has had an enormous impact on the need for their services.

Today we're talking to Joe Mooney of Integrity Printing. We discuss the art that is printing, combined with the science of customized receipt printing, and the marketing vision that is the b-side of receipts (the advertising space).

Today we're talking to Jeff Joyce of Mieras Shoes. We discuss how their customer-first approach helped them thrive during the pandemic years; how they've stayed nimble through over 100 years of family ownership and operation; and what impact the MRA has had on their business and outlook.

The NFL kicks off this weekend. Eric Hultgren talks with Ben Raven beat writer for MLive who covers the Lions about Hard Knocks and what to expect this season.

Today on the podcast Eric Hultgren talks with Trisha Patrias from Explore Brighton/Howell Area about the full fall activities not to miss this year things like cider mills, ghost tours, shopping, and fall colors.

Today we talk to Consumers Energy's Emily McGraw - watch/listen to our discussion to find out how Consumers Energy is working to ensure they can meet needs during high demand (ahem, the dog days of summer), their energy efficiency program and tools, and the simple things users can do to help lower their energy consumption which helps lower bills.

Today we're talking to Bill Golden, Co-President of Golden Shoes and Vice-Chair of the MRA board. A family business since its start in 1954, Golden Shoes has seen three generations of Goldens and myriad changes in Traverse City. Their customer-centered focus means they have lifelong customers from all over - even going so far as to build a trip to Golden Shoes in to their Traverse City visits (delayed flights notwithstanding)

Today we talk to Jerry Price and Bryan Joseph about the Lake Breeze Music Festival, taking place Saturday, August 20 in St. Joe. We learn how a their time working on the Senior PGA led to a great friendship and a desire to keep the music going, especially highlighting regional artists.

Today we talk to Nate Carver, Consumers Energy's Director of Project Management for Commercial and Industrial Businesses and Jill Diliberti from the Genesee County Intermediate School District. Since 2009 Consumers Energy Energy Efficiency programs has been helping businesses save billions of dollars - because they know that using less energy or changing the time of use means that they can use more cost- and energy-efficient energy sources. These programs have helped businesses around the state, including factories, health care providers, farms, retailers, school districts and more, saving them up to 25% on projects. Find out more at www.consumersenergy.com/charlesatwork

Today we talk to 'My Casual Mom', Brooke Cummings all about her building a new home journey with Eastbrook Homes. Though building felt like it would be overwhelming, they learned that for their life, remodeling and trying to buy an existing home were both too big undertakings. Eastbrook Homes made building a new home so easy, quick and customized that it was a no brainer.