Podcasts about grand rapids

Amanda and Ash interview Charlie Kao. Charlie shares how growing up as “free labor” on his dad's properties eventually led him back into commercial real estate, where he's now best known for self-storage. He explains why he's cautious on self-storage at a national level, how overbuilding and new alternatives are changing demand, and why he's leaning into highly localized markets where he has an unfair advantage. Charlie also walks through innovative ways he's turning basic storage into a true service business, from accepting and placing medical shipments to offering boat/RV add-ons, all while using feasibility studies and data-driven pricing to stay ahead of the competition. Charlie KaoCurrent role: Principal and Asset Manager, Twin Oaks CapitalBased in: Grand Rapids, Michigan Say hi to them at: https://www.twinoakscap.com/ | LinkedIn Alternative Fund IV is closing soon and SMK is giving Best Ever listeners exclusive access to their Founders' Shares, typically offered only to early investors. Visit smkcap.com/bec to learn more and download the full fund summary. Join the Best Ever Community  The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we want serious commercial real estate investors like you inside. It's free to join, but you must apply and meet the criteria.  Connect with top operators, LPs, GPs, and more, get real insights, and be part of a curated network built to help you grow. Apply now at ⁠www.bestevercommunity.com⁠ Podcast production done by ⁠Outlier Audio⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We do political ads for one another, get a follow up from our Grand Rapids hook up girl, and more!

We do political ads for one another, get a follow up from our Grand Rapids hook up girl, and more!

What if the answer to West Michigan's—and America's—housing shortage isn't massive new developments, but small homes tucked into the neighborhoods we already live in? In this episode of the Rental Property Owner & Real Estate Investor Podcast, Brian Hamrick talks with Nathan Biller, accredited ADU specialist and co-founder of My Backyard Build. Nathan has built his own ADU, permitted several more, and is helping shape local policy as a member of Grand Rapids' ADU Task Force. You'll learn: What exactly an ADU is (granny flats, carriage houses, basement conversions, detached units, and more). Why investors should consider ADUs—from the math behind rental income to the 1% rule and reduced land costs. Local and national trends—how California, Portland, Seattle, and Denver have embraced ADUs, and what's happening in Michigan cities like Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Traverse City. Financing and cost considerations—real numbers on what it takes to build an ADU and how investors are paying for them. Practical challenges and solutions—utilities, zoning, setbacks, neighbor relations, and historic district restrictions. Future opportunities—policy changes and task force recommendations that could make ADUs more accessible and profitable. Whether you call them granny flats, backyard cottages, or carriage houses, ADUs are becoming one of the most practical solutions to today's housing crisis—and a smart investment strategy for rental property owners. Find out more: https://www.mibackyardbuild.com/ https://www.nathanbiller.com/ Today's episode is brought to you by Green Property Management, managing everything from single family homes to apartment complexes in the West Michigan area. https://www.livegreenlocal.com And RCB & Associates, helping Michigan-based real estate investors and small business owners navigate the complex world of health insurance and medicare benefits. https://www.rcbassociatesllc.com

Calvary Church, Grand Rapids, MI Senior Pastor Dr. Jim Samra (616)956-9377

Calvary Church, Grand Rapids, MI Senior Pastor Dr. Jim Samra (616)956-9377

In this week's episode, we welcome George Bayaard, Executive Director, with The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives.The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives' mission is to collect and retell the rich, colorful stories that compose the historic African American tapestry of living in Grand Rapids.George Bayaard joined us on the program to speak about the big move for GRAAMA to a new location full of immense potential for the organization.The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives (GRAAMA)is moving to 41 Sheldon Avenue SE in downtown Grand Rapids, which will serve as the organization's permanent home. Their new 30,000-square-foot space will be a major upgrade from the museum's former 2,000-square-foot building on Monroe Center.Bayaard encouraged community members to get involved by contributing to the project or serving as a volunteer. ONLINE:  Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives

Vic Verchereau welcomes Janet Korn, who is Senior Vice President at Experience Grand Rapids. From world-class attractions and outdoor recreation to nationally ranked food and craft beverage scenes; Grand Rapids, Michigan is filled with unexpected surprises. Discover why we're America's Best Beer City, the nation's Craft Beverage Capital, and a Top 20 U.S. Foodie City. Get an eyeful of spectacular art and an earful of live music. Explore our endless opportunities for family fun. Make your travel dreams come true in Grand Rapids! Michigan Corners host, Vic Verchereau, gets all the news from Janet Korn, Sr. Vice President of Experience Grand Rapids. Come on down to the Corner, and hear all about what's next in Grand Rapids! » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

  A weekly magazine-style radio show featuring the voices and stories of Asians and Pacific Islanders from all corners of our community. The show is produced by a collective of media makers, deejays, and activists. Tonight on APEX Express Host Miko Lee speaks with spouses of detained refugees. We hear about the similarities and challenges of Hmong and Nepali speaking Bhutanese refugees. We also speak with Asian Law Caucus' Aisa Villarosa about the ongoing campaigns for freedom that ALC has been leading along with a host of other community based organizations. Join us: November 3, 4pm Pacific time, 7pm Eastern Time, Join us for “We Belong Here, Bhutanese & Hmong Americans in the Struggle Against Statelessness” a live virtual event featuring my three guests tonight, along with performances and conversations. bit.ly/WBH-2025   TAKE ACTION Rising Voices campaign for Lue Yang Mohan Karki's GoFundMe   And please help support these organizations working to support detained and deported folx: Asian Law Caucus Asian Refugees United Ba Lo Project in Vietnam Collective Freedom in Vietnam & Laos Asian Prisoner Support Committee & New Light Wellness in Cambodia November 1–2, people nationwide are joining the Disappeared In America Weekend of Action to stand up for immigrant families and defend due process. Actions include protests at Home Depots, candlelight Freedom Vigils, and Day of the Dead events honoring lives lost to detention.     We Belong! Transcript Miko Lee: Welcome to Apex Express.This is your host, Miko Lee. Today we're talking about detentions and potential deportations and the atrocities that the Trump administration is creating in our communities.We originally recorded this episode a month ago, and today is October 29th. 2025 and I have with me Aisa Villarosa a lawyer with Asian Law Caucus, giving us an update in the cases that we're talking about. Welcome Aisa Apex Express. Aisa Villarosa: Thanks so much, Miko. Miko Lee: Tonight we're gonna be talking with two spouses of detained folks. One is a Nepali speaking Bhutanese community member, and the other is Hmong community member. In the time since we recorded this, there has been a big update with Lue Young's case, and I wonder if you could provide us with that update. Aisa Villarosa: Miko since we last spoke, due to some really hard fought campaigning, both behind the scenes and drawing upon allies across Michigan and really across the country. Lue Yang, received a successful pardon from Governor Gretchen Whitmer. We actually received word shortly before Lue Yang was set to be placed on a very large deportation flight. Once we got word of the pardon, it was off to the races for the legal team to quickly draft some emergency motions for Lue Yang and to realize the power of the pardon before the deportation. Miko Lee: Can we back up for a moment and give for an audience a sense of what that means? Lue Young was incarcerated at a detention facility, which Trump has called the FedEx of detention facilities in, Louisana, and explain to us what happened to him and the other members that were suddenly pulled together onto an airplane. Aisa Villarosa: When these removal flights happen, there's so much confusion, there's so much fear that families undergo, and often it's due to the perseverance of the families that we honestly even know where folks are. Shortly before what we call final staging happens, someone is moved from, in Lue's case, a facility in Michigan to a facility like Alexandria in Louisiana where the planes do take off  from. Families typically look up their loved one on something called the “ice detainee locator.” What's challenging is when final staging starts. Often that person completely disappears from the detainee locator or information gets a bit scrambled. Because ICE has a bit of a sealed box as far as even telling families where, their loved one is. Families are either left to guess or rely on each other. So for Lue Yang and the pardon what is critical for folks to know is that as powerful, as rare as a pardon is, I can't stress how extraordinary this is in these very difficult times. A pardon does not instantly, allow someone to say, walk out of an ice facility. There's, numerous legal filings that need to happen. That is why , the team was so up against the clock. Miko Lee: So let's break this down a little bit around a pardon. What does a pardon mean in our current system? Because as a lay person, you think, oh, they're pardoned. That means they're free and they can go home and be with their family. Tell us a little bit about what a pardon means in our legal system right now. Aisa Villarosa: A pardon is different from a criminal expungement, which folks might be familiar with. In Lue's case, for example, when Lue was younger, he successfully expunged this record, in criminal court. The challenge is that immigration court, is basically the entity that issues something called a “final order of removal.” This document, is basically what powers deportation for folks. An expungement does not get at the final removal order. However, a pardon has that more direct link. The pardon has the weight of what we call “vacating a conviction.” To explain more legalese and hopefully folks can stay with me. A final order of removal is an immigration court order document where , it gives ice the power to do all these deportations We're seeing for the refugee community that Lue Yang belongs to. Often these are quite old orders, and so sometimes a loved one might be detained and they might not even realize that they have a criminal conviction or a final order of removal. Miko Lee: Thank you so much for breaking that down. So we described how he was pulled off the plane that was going for his deportation. Tell us where Lue is at right now. What is happening with his case? Aisa Villarosa: The call to action very much remains what it has been, which is we're calling to bring Lue home. At the moment, Lue is in a facility in Louisiana. Our hope is that Lue can return to Michigan. There is also a call to release Lue on a supervised release. The other component of the legal journey for Lue is something called a motion to reopen. Basically this is how the full weight of the pardon is realized. The motion to reopen calls on the Board of Immigration Appeals to reopen Lue's case, because years ago he got that final removal order, so when someone gets that order, typically their immigration case is closed. This petition says, Hey, he got a pardon. Please reopen Lue's case because the underlying conviction that led to the final removal order. Has been pardoned, right? We are hoping that this motion to reopen will be heard in front of the Board of Immigration Appeals, that we can get a great result and that as the campaign calls for that, Lue can come home. Miko Lee: I know lawyers like you are doing incredible work around the scenes. You did not sleep for two days, filing paperwork to be able to make sure that Lue was pulled off that plane. But what can regular people, what can our audience do to get involved right now? Aisa Villarosa: There's myriad actions along this really terrible deportation pipeline. We're seeing that folks who might not have, any deep knowledge of the immigration system can still be so impactful. We have partners in LA in the faith community and they've started working with community organizations to do things like accompaniment, which is, joining community members like Lue, who often have these ice check-ins. As folks have seen on the news, these check-ins can be really risky because that is where ice arrests can happen. If someone misses their ice check-in, typically that means that a warrant is issued, that immigration forces can come after you. In these cases, community members, particularly folks who are US citizens, accompaniment can be a great way to dig in to show up for our immigrant and refugee siblings. Miko Lee: Thank you so much for breaking down how folks can get involved. It's so important right now in a time where we feel so utterly helpless to be able to make change. Now we're gonna go back to listen to our interview that is with the two spouses, Tika, Basnet, and Ann Vue, and also our current guest, Aisa Villarosa Tika and Ann they're part of a horrible club, which is both of their spouses are currently in detention from our immigration system. I just wanna start on a real personal note in a way that I often do with my guests. Anne, I just would love to hear from you, who are your people and what legacy do you carry with you? Ann Vue: Thank you again, Miko and Isa, for having me on. We are Hmong. We helped Americans during the Vietnam War. In Laos, a lot of our pilots needed a communication. Because we're indigenous and we are in the mountains they were able to speak with us and use us. Our Hmong, helped a lot of the pilots rescued a lot, like thousands and thousands of Americans, so that they can make it back home. That is our contribution to the American people. When we were brought to America, was to resettle because of humanitarian purpose. Our legacy of helping Americans with the war. that is who we are and what we bring to America. That's who I am. I'm actually the first generation Hmong American. I was born right here in the capital of Lansing, Michigan. Miko Lee: Thanks so much ann. Tika, can you share who are your people and what legacy you carry with you? Tika Basnet: Hi, my name is Tika Basnet. I am Bhutanese Nepali community. My parents and all the Bhutanese, they ran away from Bhutan in 1990 due to the ethnic cleansing. They came to Nepal, seeking for asylum, and that is where we born. I was born in Nepal, in refugee camp. Even though I was born in Nepal, Nepal never gave us identity. They never give us citizenship. We were known as Bhutanese Nepali, but as known as Stateless. My husband also born in Nepal in a refugee camp. Miko Lee: Thank you. Aisa, I'm gonna ask the same question for you Aisa, that works at Asian Law Caucus. Who are your people and what legacy do you carry with you? Aisa Villarosa: So much love to you, Miko and to you Ann and Tika for being here today. I just am, I'm so honored. My name is Aisa and I carry the love and, Maki Baka spirit of Filipino Americans both in my family across the diaspora. A little bit about the Filipino American story. We came to the United States as part of the colonial machine. The first Filipinos were brought as part of the Spanish Gallian trade. We made California home, parts of Lueisiana home, and it's quite a contrast to a lot of the sort of model minority seduction that many of my people, and myself as a younger person tended to fall into that if we kept our heads down, if we were quiet, we would be left alone. I'm struck because at this moment of just unprecedented government attacks, so many of our communities have this story where someone somewhere said to us, yeah, just keep your head down and it'll be fine. We're seeing the exact opposite, that this is the time to really use our voices, both individually and as one. I'm also an artist and try to infuse that into my work in fighting government systems. Miko Lee: Thank you Aisa. I will say I'm Miko. I am fifth generation Chinese American. I grew up knowing that my family was full of fighters that built the railroads, worked in the gold mines in laundromats and restaurants, and my parents walked with Dr. King and Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, and I was raised in a family of social justice activists. I feel like our legacy is to continue that work and to fight for the rights of our peoples. I'm so honored to have both of all three of you powerful women join me today. As I was saying in the beginning, Tika and Anne are sadly a part of this club nobody wants to be a part of with the sudden, unexpected, harmful detentions of both of your husbands. I wonder if you can each just share the story about what happened and how you first found out about your husband being detained. Let's start with you Tika. Tika Basnet: My husband got his removal in 2014 when he was just 17 years old, high school student going from school to home. He's a teenager and with his friend, they were playing around and they wanna go home really fast. They just cross from private property. That is where someone saw and call 9 1 1. We came from the culture that we love to go people home , walking around, playing around. My husband came here in 2011. The incident happened on 2013. He just, came here without knowing culture, without knowing languages, So he has no idea. So when somebody called 9 1 1, he could not explain what happened. First of all, English is his second language, he was barely here without knowing rules and regulation, without knowing culture. The police took him to jail, gave a lot of charges. My husband doesn't know what are those charges? At that time, nobody explained, this is the three charges you got, and this could lead to deportation. He feel guilty without knowing those charges. He trusts [00:14:00] Nepali translate guy, and he told my husband, if you don't say I'm guilty, you will end up in prison for 20 to 25 years, but if you say I'm guilty, you'll go home. My husband said, guilty. At that time, neither criminal lawyer told my husband, if you say I'm guilty, you'll end up getting deport. Deport to the country that you are you never born. Deport To the country, you doesn't even speak their language. The lawyer did not explain my husband you will not gonna get your green card. You cannot apply your citizenship in your life. If those things the lawyer told my husband at that time, he will never gonna say, I am guilty to the crime that he did not even commit. When they tried to deport my husband back then, Bhutan say, he's not my citizenship, he's not from my country, We don't know this guy. He's not belongs to here. When US Embassy reach out to, Nepal, do you know this guy? They told, ICE no, we don't know this guy, like he's not belongs here. The ICE officer, told my husband, we can let you go, you need to come here, like order of supervision every three months, every six months, whenever we call you. It been 11 years. My husband is following rules and regulation. He never did any violation after that. He got married, he has a life, he pay taxes. He was taking care of his family and in 11 years he was doing everything. In 2025 for the first time they target Bhutanese Nepali community. I knew that this is the last time I'm gonna see my husband. I broke down. When they detained my husband in April 8, I was eight months pregnant. We dream a lot of things we are gonna take care of our daughter. We are gonna buy home, we are gonna work, we are gonna give her the life that we, I'm sorry. Miko Lee: Totally. Okay. Tika Basnet: I never thought like Bhutanese community can, like deport. Like my parent already go through this trauma, when Bhutan throw them away due to ethnic cleansing and same thing happening to us. It is unbelievable. I cannot believe that, we're going through this again and I don't know when this gonna be stopped. I don't know whether like my husband gonna come home. It is been five month and I really want my husband back. My daughter is, three month old. She need her dad in life 'cause I cannot provide everything by myself. My husband is the main provider for her aging parent. 'cause even now they cannot pay bills. I'm fighting for my husband case and I want my husband back. He deserve second chance because if you see his record is clean, like for one incident that happened like 12 years ago, that cannot define my husband. I cannot believe that my husband is able to get deport to the country that doesn't even accept. I don't know whether he gonna get killed. Whether he gonna disappear, I don't know what will happen to him. I don't know if it is last time I'm gonna see him. Miko Lee: Tika, thank you so much for sharing your story. Just to recap really briefly, your husband, Mohan Karki when he was a teenager, newly arrived in the country, was leaving high school, walked with his friends through a backyard and was racially profiled. The neighbor called police because he was trespassing on property. He was born at a refugee camp. Is that right? Tika Basnet: Yes. Miko Lee: There was not property that was like person's property on that refugee camp. So that whole concept of walking across somebody's land was something he was not aware of. He had an interpreter that did not give correct information. And so he signed something, including a deportation order, that he wasn't even aware of until recently when he was put into detention. Is that right? Tika Basnet: Yes. Yes. Miko Lee: Right now he's in detention. You live in Ohio, but he's in detention in Michigan, right? Tika Basnet: Yes. Miko Lee: Okay, Tika, let's talk about Mohans case and what's happening. He's held in detention right now in a detention facility in Michigan. What is going on with his case? Tika Basnet: His criminal attorney file, a Motion to Redeem asking BIA to send that, case back to Georgia. His case, that happened in 2013. Our attorney just submit documentation where he's asking to release my husband because it'd been five month. He's not risk to the community. He's not risk to the flight 'cause he doesn't have no one in Bhutan. He doesn't have no one in Nepal. All family is in here. His community love him ,he has family that loves him. We also get lot of documentations as a proof telling ICE that my husband is not risk to the community or to the flight. Miko Lee: Thank you. He has a a four month old baby that he has yet to meet. So that is a powerful reason to stay. As Tikas pointing out, the lawyer just submitted documentation along with 50 letters of support from the community from employers, from family members, all saying why he should stay in this country. Thank you so much for sharing. Anne, i'm wondering if you could share about what happened to your husband. He was also born in a refugee camp, right? Ann Vue: Lue was born in Nangkai, Thailand refugee camp in 1978. In1979 his parents and him and his older brother Granted urgent humanitarian reasons for or for public benefit. They made it to America right before Halloween. The early nineties, me even being the first generation American here, racism played a lot. We all went through that piece and our parents not speaking English at the same time, they were going to school themselves so that they can learn our English language, . They weren't able to teach us growing up. We had to fend for ourselves. I would say my husband he went out with some friends. He did not commit the crime. But of course now that is brought back to him, he understood about his particular case is second attempt, home invasion. Nobody was harmed. He was in the vehicle, in the backseat when he was caught. He didn't wanna partake, but he didn't wanna stop them either 'cause to him it was like, if I don't partake, then I have nothing to do with it. . Because if I do, then they might not be my friends anymore. It's just a part of growing up as a youth. Because he was there, and then would receive a court appointed attorney, and then provide it very similar to Tika's too. Had an interpreter, that was explaining to them, was provided bad legal advice. He had no knowledge about how this would impact his immigration status. It was advised by their attorney, take the plea it's easier, and you probably serve less than a year. You'll be out, you'll only be in the county jail anyways 'cause you didn't really commit the crime and technically it should have been a misdemeanor. But because you're an accomplice, that kind of falls under this category. So he took the plea, he served 10 months in a county jail. He actually was released for good behavior. He even finished his probation soon because he paid all of his stuff off. He even finished a youth advocate program for anybody that committed crimes between the age of 18 to 21. I just saw this form the other day and I was reading it and it talks about, the one thing about our parents, experiencing the war and coming to America, they don't talk about it. A lot of us are from communist countries. We are very afraid to voice our voices, because someone can take action. Our parents never talked about it. I read what he wrote to his, youth coordinator, he felt so bad about what he did. He created disappointment for his parents and he understands, there are sacrifices that got us here to America. He literally wrote all of this down, i'm going to be a better person. I'm going to make my parents proud now that I understand their sacrifices. They asked him, ” what was your upbringing like?” He wrote, “poor” and the coordinator wrote on the bottom of his comments said, “Lue is remorseful for what has happened and he wants to be a better person. I have no other questions. The training is complete.” He doesn't need any further, support and believes that he will move forward to be a better person. That's literally what they wrote on the document. Then fast forwarding to 1999 that's when, immigration showed up at his house. Him and I would meet in 2000, and then we'd be married in 2001. We'd celebrate. Almost 24 and a half years of marriage. We did appeal his case in the humanitarian piece of what this meant for Lue during the time where we all fled the country. Once the monks were declared enemy of the state by the LDR in Laos, we fled. It's well documented that there was a little bit over 400,000 of us there right after the genocide and the killings of the Hmong there was probably less than 45,000 of us left. Once we understood a lot of that, we wanted to do better. We wanted to really service our community. We appealed the case. The case was then denied in his appeal letters, general Vink Powell, which led the Hmongs during the war, even had a letter where he, also pled why Hmongs need to stay here in America. And why we need to bring the rest of our people to this country. The reality is our whole family, Lue's whole family was wiped out. We don't have anybody, Lue doesn't have anyone. That goes to Tika's thing too. There's nobody there. Going back to the case once it was denied in 2002. He then was forced to reach out to the embassy and was denied, entry into Thailand 'cause that's where he was born. We're stateless too, just like Tikas husband. We were denied by Thailand. We were denied by Laos stating that we are not a citizen of theirs. They do not allow or welcome any sort of entry. In 2006, they actually took his green card and then we again were denied. In 2008 we were denied a third time and that's when his immigration officer was like, just move on and start your life. Laos and Thailand, will never sign a repatriation act with America because of you guys, because of the Hmong people, what you guys have done to their country, making it the most bombed country during the war without even being a part of the war. They will never allow you guys back. So we were like, okay. So we moved forward. Then in 2014, this immigration officer, which we was doing yearly checkups at this time, was like, Hey go get your citizenship, get your green card. They're like you're doing so good. You probably could have a chance to get it. We moved forward to apply for citizenship and for the green card. We were denied in 2015 and we know how expensive this is. You pay $10,000 outright, you don't get that money back. You just have to go at it again. We decided that, we're gonna get his case expunged, and we got his case expunged in 2018. No questions asked. It was very straightforward. Once it was expunged, we continued with our [00:26:00] lives. Very involved in the community. We had six kids . This year we even called his immigration officer and he was like, “Hey, don't worry about it, Lue, we're moving you over to Grand Rapids and you should be fine. Just make sure that you stay outta trouble, continue to follow your stock.” I think what triggered it was when we applied for his work permit in April. He always meets his immigration officer at the end of the year, and we renewed his work permit is what triggered it. The money was cashed out, everything the checks went through while we were receiving that, he was gonna be here, everything was gonna be fine. Then July 15th he was detained at work, six 30 in the morning, the detained officer they told him they know who he is to the community, so they have to do it this way because they don't want any problems. They don't want media, they don't want reporters. He did ask them because he rode his motorcycle for some weird reason. He has not taken his bike out, his motorcycle out in the last three years. But for some reason that night he was like, I just wanna take my bike. So he took his bike that night and when ICE told him, do you have somebody come get your bike? You need to call somebody to come get your bike. He was like, nobody in my family rides motorcycles. I don't have anyone to come get my bike. I think there was some empathy and compassion for him. My husband was like, can I just take my bike back? I've got six kids. I've got my grandma at home and my parents are also at my house right now. I just wanna see them and wanna take my bike back. They asked him, “if we let you go, please don't run.” They followed my husband home and my husband literally called me at 6 37 in the morning and he was like, Hey, ICE is, here they got me. I'm like, “what? What's going on?” It was just so surreal. I was so shocked. It's a 30 minute drive. When he got there, they were already officers, packed tight in our driveway. We live in the country. There were like five or six cop cars there too. We had to walk about half a mile down to go see him. They wouldn't allow him to enter where our home was. The officer told, my husband, told him that they're so sorry. They have to do it this way. They know who he is. They don't want any problems, they don't want any reports in media out here. I will say my experience was a little bit different from others. They did take their mask off when they took him in, they were respectful. They even, talk to my two older boys like, Hey, you guys have money. I could put the money in your dad's account. We're, take him into Grand Rapids, we're gonna process him, and then we're gonna take him to the detention center, which is gonna be in Michigan. They were very open about these steps . My grandma has chronic pulmonary disease stage four. We couldn't haul her fast enough because we only saw him for like maybe a quick minute, and that was it. They did ask us to turn around because they had to take him back and they didn't want our little ones to see them cuffing him. Miko Lee: They actually said, Anne, we don't want any media to be watching this? Ann Vue: I don't want any problems. Miko Lee: Your husband is also quite well known in the Hmong community, right? So probably, they were worried about folks coming out and protesting. Is that, do you think that was the case? Ann Vue: That's what I'm assuming. I don't remember their exact words saying media, but do remember that they didn't want people around, they didn't want to create issues for the community. Because if he would've gotten the letter just like everybody did, which everybody then would receive the letter on Friday, and because my husband is a community leader, he is the Hmong Family Association's president, we restart receiving many, many calls where everybody just wanted to talk to Lue 'cause they needed to know what's going on, how to handle, what to do. At that moment I realized, oh my gosh, they detained my husband first. Then everybody else got a letter. Miko Lee: And the ICE officer that he had been checking in with routinely has he been in touch with him since he was detained? Ann Vue: He hasn't. Miko Lee: So they had different people come in even, 'cause he was the person that said everything's okay, keep going with your life. Ann Vue: Oh yeah. Miko Lee: And so no contact with him whatsoever since the detention? Ann Vue: No. Miko Lee: Okay. Thank you so much. I just wanna point out, for all of our listeners, how many similarities there are in these two cases. In both of these amazing women are here supporting their spouses. Both spouses born in refugee camps. Dealing with intergenerational trauma from families that had to escape ethnic cleansing or involved in a war, came into the United States under, legal properties through refugee resettlement acts, made mistakes as young people, partially due to culture and wanting to fit in. They served their time, they paid their dues. They were racially profiled. They suffered from incredible immigration policy failure with bad advice, with a system that's broken. Now both of them are detained. Not yet deported, but detained. Many of the community members have already been deported and they're facing statelessness. We're seeing this not just with Bhutanese and Hmong folks, but with Mien and Lao and Haitian and El Salvadorian. We could fill in the blank of how many other peoples in other communities are facing this. We also know that these private detention centers where people are being held, are making millions and millions of dollars, and it's connected into our corrupt political system that's in place right now. Aisa, I'm wondering if you could, talk about the case, but also about some of the deals that we think have had to be made with Laos and Bhutan in order for these deportations to even take place. So Aisa from Asian Law Caucus, I'm gonna pass it to you to go over some of the legal ramifications. Aisa Villarosa: Of course, Miko, and thank you for it for the context. There are so many parallels that we as advocates must uplift because this is not the time to be divided. This is the time to build solidarity that we've long known needs to happen. What Miko is referring to is largely something that we've observed around the travel  bans. Earlier this year, right around the time that the Trump administration took hold, there was a draft travel ban list that leaked across a number of media outlets, the Times, et cetera, and the same countries we're talking about today, Bhutan, Laos. These were historically not countries that were subject to sanctions, like the travel ban, and yet here they were. A lot of us were scratching our heads and asking, why is this happening? Our theory, and this is a theory that is now also manifesting in a number of FOIA requests or Freedom of Information Act requests that are submitted from Asian Law Caucus to departments like the State Department ice, the Department of Homeland Security. Asking the same question that Tika and Anne are asking, which is, how are these deportations even happening? They were not happening until this year. What very likely happened was a bit of a quid pro quo. So in removing Bhutan, removing Laos from this list where they could be sanctioned as a country, there was likely some backdoor deal that took place between the US State Department and Bhutanese officials and the US officials, where essentially there was some form of an agreement that there would be an acceptance or a supposed acceptance of a certain number of folks from these communities. That is why around March, for the Bhutanese refugee community, for example, we started seeing pickups very similar to Mohan's case, where, many people who had perhaps made some mistakes in their youth or had really old criminal convictions were swept off the streets and thrust into these really rapid deportation proceedings. I don't even know if proceedings is the right word, because there essentially was no proceeding. The Immigration Court is very much a cloaked process. The immigration judge is kind of judge and jury wrapped up together, which is very different than many of us might turn on the TV and see something like Law and order. An immigration court works a very different way where this piece of paper, this final removal order, basically gives ICE a lot of bandwidth to make these deportations happen. However, that doesn't mean we should just accept that this is happening. We know that just basic procedures of fairness are not being met. We know, too that in the case of, for example, the Bhutanese community ICE officers have come to the wrong house. And put a lot of people in fear. So racial profiling was happening even before this recent Supreme Court decision, which essentially now condones racial profiling, as criteria that the ICE can use. I also just wanted to talk about this trend too, we're seeing with so many cases. It happened to Lue, it happened to Mohan, where in someone's underlying criminal court case, maybe they were given a court appointed attorney. In many cases, they were not told of the immigration impacts of, say, taking a plea. There is a Supreme Court case called Padilla versus Kentucky and basically the law shifted such that in many cases there now is a duty for a court appointed public defender to actually talk to folks like Mohan and Lue about the immigration consequences of their plea. So when Tika mentioned that there's something called a post-conviction relief effort for Mohan. That's happening in Georgia. This is very much what that legal defense looks like, where, an expert attorney will look at that very old court record, see if those rights were violated, and also talk to Mohan and make sure did that violation happen and is that grounds for reopening an immigration case. For Lue, there is a really mighty pardoning campaign that's brewing in the state of Michigan. So in Michigan, governor Gretchen Whitmer does have the authority to in some cases expedite a pardon in process. Unfortunately in the immigration arena the expungement does not have that same weight as say a vacating, or a motion to vacate that criminal record. So it's super frustrating because, so much of this turns ethically, morally on- do we, as people believe in second chances, and I know most people do, and yet here we are really. Based on a technicality. I also just want to name too that Lue as a person is both a natural organizer and he is a spiritual guide of his community. So something that many folks don't know is because of so much of the trauma that Anne talked about, both from, supporting the Americans during the Secret War, many Hmong folks who came to the States, they actually in some cases died in their sleep because of this, almost unexplained weight of the trauma. It almost underscores the importance of Lue, not just to his family, but this family is a collective family. He's both a mentor for so many, he's a spiritual guide for so many. Him being away from his family, away from community, it's like a double, triple wound. for Mohan, I'd love to uplift this memory I have of a moment in June when Tika gave us a call, and at that point, Mohan had called Tika and said, they're taking me, I'm being deported. At that point, they were removing Mohan from the ICE facility in Butler, Ohio and transporting him to the Detroit airport or that deportation to Bhutan. Tika was forced to essentially delay her childbirth. It was very much in the range of when she was due to give birth to their daughter. But because the clock was ticking, Tika drove to Butler, literally begged for Mohans life as our organizing and advocacy and legal team was trying to get together this emergency stay of deportation. That fortunately came through at the 11th hour. But the fact that Mohan remains in this facility in St. Clair, Michigan, that he's never held his daughter is unacceptable, is ridicuLues. I think so much of these two cases almost, this invisible brotherhood of pain that I know Ann has talked to me about that. Because Lue right now has been in a couple facilities. He is organizing, he's doing his thing and actually supporting folks while also just trying to keep himself well, which is no easy feat to do in so many of these facilities. Especially because, in Alexandria, for example, which is a facility in Louisiana. We know that folks are sleeping on cement floors. We know that folks are not being fed, that there's a lot of human rights violations going on. Here is Lue still continuing to use his voice and try to advocate for the folks around him. Miko Lee: Aisa thank you so much for putting that into context, and we'll put links in the show notes for how folks can get involved in both of these cases. One is, Rising Voices call to action for Lue. We encourage folks to do that. In terms of Mohan, there's a GoFundMe to help support Tika and the immense lawyer fees, and also a letter writing campaign to the ICE director Kevin Roff, to try and release Mohan and Lue. These are really important things that are happening in our community, and thank you for being out there. Thank you for talking and sharing your stories. We really appreciate you. And also, just briefly, I'd love us for us to talk for a minute about how many folks in our Asian American communities, we don't wanna talk about mistakes that we have made in the past because we might consider that shameful. And therefore, in both of these communities, when we started organizing, it was really hard at first to find people to come forth and share their stories. So I wonder if both of you can give voice to a little about that, the power you found in yourself to be able to come forward and speak about this, even though some other folks in the community might not feel comfortable or strong enough to be able to talk. Tika, can you speak to that? Tika Basnet: What makes me really strong, and I wanna see that my husband case is because he was 17, people can make mistake and from those mistake, if people are learning. Americans should consider, 'cause my husband did make mistake and I wish that time he knew the rules and regulation. I wish somebody taught him that he's not supposed to go somebody else property, around in backyard. I wish he was been in the United States like more than , one and a half year. I wish, if he was like more than two years, three years. I think that time he, from high school, he could learn. He's not supposed to go there. He was just been in the United States like one and a half year just going to high school. Nobody taught him. His parent doesn't even speak English. Until now, they doesn't even speak, like nobody in our community knew rules and regulation. He doesn't have guide, mentor to taught him like, and even though he did make mistake and he's really sorry, and from those mistake learning a lot, and he never get into trouble, after 11 years, he was clean, he work, he pay taxes. That is the reason that I really wanna come forward. People can make mistake, but learning from those mistake that changed people life. The reason that I'm coming forward is because organization like Asian Law Caucus, ARU, and, Miko, a lot of people helped me. They taught me like people can make mistake and, we shouldn't be same. I really wanna give example to my daughter, that, you are fighting for justice and you shouldn't fear. What is right is right. What is wrong is wrong. But if somebody's make mistake and they are not, doing that mistake again, I think the people can get a second chance. My husband deserves second chance. He's 30 years old. He has a family, he has a wife, children and he deserved to be here. We came here legally, my husband came here. Legally, we, promise that we'll get home and this is our home. We wanna stay here and I really want my husband be home soon so he can play with her daughter to play with his daughter. Miko Lee: Thank you so much, Tika. Ann I wonder if you could talk to the strength that it takes for you to come forward and speak about your husband and your family. Ann Vue: I'm a community leader with my husband. There was a moment when he was first detained where I was in complete silence. I was so shocked. It took my attorney, Nancy, just talking to me about it. Of course, back to what Aisa said earlier in our communities, we're afraid. I was so scared. I didn't know what to do. It took me visiting my husband in Baldwin and letting him know that, hey, a bunch of community members are now reaching out. And that's that. At that moment, he was like, you have to say something. You have to say something you have to make noise because you have a, 50% chance, right? We have a 50 50 chance. 50%. They're gonna send me 50%. You're gonna feel bad if you don't say anything, right? 50 here, 50 there. It doesn't matter. But a hundred percent regret if you don't say something. I thought about it and he was like, well, go out there, be my voice. He's like, you've always been my voice. You got this right. I didn't say no to Nancy. 'cause she really wanted to talk to our rep Mai you know about this. Mai and I are pretty close too. , I just knew if I said anything, Mai's gonna be like mm-hmm. All the way. I just let Nancy help me, and my most vulnerable time. I'm glad that she did. I'm glad that we did get this out. It is the most important thing for us. what keeps me going is all of those that have been impacted by this, from people like Tika. I have many, I call 'em sisters. We're all in a lot of these group chats together. They've been also keeping me going. Our amazing team of attorneys and everybody just strategizing through this unprecedented time. It's really everyone's voices. I get to talk to Lue daily. It's definitely not cheap, but he gets to share each story of each person. I believe that everybody has a story and they might not be as lucky as maybe Tika or my husband, but at least now I have their story. I will be their voice. I will tell each person's story, each name, each alien number that I track down, my husband's even literally learned how to count in Spanish, just so he can give them like my phone number in Spanish in case they need to call an emergency. Oh, I'm be getting a lot of calls. that is what keeps me going because I think that Tika and I and many others are, hoping that there is going to be a better day, a brighter day. I hope that everyone can see that, our children are American, right? Our children, they deserve to have their fathers and their mothers. They deserve to grow with these parents. And with that being said, the most important thing to me is they're not just bystanders. They're literally the future of America. I don't want them growing up with trauma, with trying to ask me questions “well mom, if we're refugees and we helped, Americans as allies, and we come to this country, why is this payback like this?” There's a moral obligation that has to be there and they're gonna grow up and they're gonna be trauma by this. I've got children right now that's been talking about joining the National Guard. It speaks volume about what happens to my husband. He's championed the Hmong, Michigan Special Gorilla unit, the Hmong veterans here in the last two years, really  with helping them through resolutions, tributes, making sure that they have things, that they are out there, that people now know them, they are finally recognized. This puts my husband at great danger by sending him back, because now he's championed the veterans here. He celebrates our veterans here. So it's a moral obligation. I hope that, and this is to every child, I hope that every child, they deserve their father's presence. There are many people who don't even have their father's presence and they wish their fathers were around. Our fathers wanna be around. I hope that our daughter, I only have one daughter too, that someday they can, their fathers can be a part of their, the American culture. I hope that we get that opportunity and I hope that somebody stop being scared, but turn around and help us. Help us. We came here legally, minor stuff, long decade old. This detainment has been worse than when he did time back in 1997. I just hope that somebody hears our podcast, Miko. Thank you. Aisa and Tika. And they turn and they have some compassion and help us because this is the tone that we're setting for the future of our American children. Miko Lee: Thank you so much for sharing. Tika, you wanna add? Tika Basnet: Yes, I really wanna talk about what kind of husband Mohan is. Even though like he detained for five month I put lot of money in his account and there was one guy, his family cannot support him. For me, it is really hard. I'm not working. But even my husband called me you don't need to put like money in my account, but can you please can you please put money in his account? He did not eat food. His family did not have money. I can survive without eating food. I think his story is really touching me. My husband was crying listening to that guy story in detention center and then I did put like $50 in his account. My husband is giving person. He love to give even though, he struggle a lot, even though, he doesn't know what will happen when he get deport. But, him saying other guy story. Does make him cry. I think this is the reason that I really wanna come forward. My husband is giving person, he's lovely person, he's caring person. That is the reason I wanna come forward. I want people to hear our voice, rather than silent. Right now people know our story. But if I was silent then I don't know whether my husband was already disappear. I don't know whether he gonna die torture or maybe he will expel within 24 hours. I have no idea. My husband is number one support system for me, because of him I'm here sharing his story. For years I had wonderful time with him. We build our dream and until 2025, our dream is destroy. I'm trying to build again. I'm hoping, my husband is coming home soon and I'm hoping that this will be the last time that he will get detained. I hope that this will be the end. I don't want him to get detained or deported again. I'm really tired. I don't know what to do. I'm hopeless. I hope listening to my story and Ann's story that separating family is not good. It is affecting not only one person but his whole community, whole family. We deserve to get our husband back. It is not only about the wife that is fighting for husband, it is the children. They're so small, they born here and we cannot raise alone, we cannot work. We have things to pay. Paying bills and taking care of child alone is really difficult. It's been five month. I went through postpartum depression, I went through trauma and I don't wanna deal anymore. Like I don't have courage to do this anymore. We need our husband back. Miko Lee: Thank you. I think both of your husbands are also main caregivers for parents that are ailing in both cases. It's a really important that we are intergenerational communities and as you both said, it's not just about the children, but it's also about parents and brothers and sisters and community members as well. Thank you so much for lifting up your stories. I just wanna go back for one more thing. We talked briefly about the crazy expensive lawyer fees that have come up for families that they've been dealing with this, and then also Tika was just bringing up about detention and commissary fees. Can you talk a little bit about the prison industrial complex and the fees that are associated? As Anne was saying, just calling Lue every day the costs that are associated with those things. Many people that don't have a family member that's incarcerated don't know about that. Can you share a little bit about what that system is? Aisa Villarosa: Yeah, absolutely Miko. Just to underscore, a big theme from this conversation, is that the US made commitments and they have broken them, both with, as Anne talked about, the refugee experience is one that is made possible through US commitment of acknowledging what, people have survived, what they have given to the country. Folks are being removed to countries where not only do they have zero ties to, don't speak the language, but, especially in the case of the Bhutanese refugee community, as Tika mentioned, it is truly a double expulsion. So the fact that we have well-documented testimonials of folks deported from Bhutan after they're removed there into these life-threatening conditions . A community member passed away in large part because of the failure of the US to both care for them while in detention. So going back to that prison complex, but also just putting them in such a harrowing situation. In another instance, a community member was found after wandering for over a hundred miles on foot. So this is not, deportation and the story ends. This is deportation and, there is a family that is grieving and thinking through next steps, there is, this call to not have borders, break us the way that this country is trying to do. And to say a little bit about the fees, USCIS, there, there has not been a point yet in history where so many changes and charges hurting families have been ushered in, But for this year. To give a couple examples of that – asylum cases for one, these often take many years through this administration. Now, families have to pay a cost yearly for each year that your asylum application, languishes because we're also seeing that those same folks who are supposed to process these applications are either being laid off or they're being militarized. So something like USCIS where this was where one would go to apply for a passport. Now the same department is literally being handed guns and they're now taking folks during naturalization interviews. Other avenues to challenge your removal. Like I mentioned a motion to reopen. All these things used to be fairly affordable. Now they can cost many thousands of dollars on top of the attorney fees. So something that's been quite challenging for groups like Asian Law Caucus where we do have attorneys representing folks in removal proceedings, there's often this misperception that oh it's costing so much money. Attorneys are pocketing cash. Unfortunately there are some situations where attorneys have been known to take advantage of families in this desperate moment. But for many, many attorneys who are in this mix, they're experts at this work. They're trying to do the right thing. They're both overwhelmed and they're seeing these new charges, which make the battle really even more difficult. So to turn it back to the listeners, I would say that as powerless as this moment can make us feel everyone is bearing witness. Hopefully the listeners today can take in Anne's story, can take in Tika's story and whatever power one has in their corner of the world, this is the moment to use that. Whether it's your voice, whether it's learning more about a community, maybe you're learning about for the first time. This is really the moment to take action. Miko Lee: Thank you Aisa. I wanna thank you all for being here with me today, for sharing your personal stories, your personal pain, and for recognizing that this is happening. We deeply believe that we need to keep our families together. That is really important. It is written into the very basis of this American country about redemption and forgiveness. And this is what we're talking about for misunderstandings that happened when these folks were young men, that they have paid for their time, and yet they're being punished again, these promises that were broken by this American government, and we need to find ways to address that. I really wanna deeply thank each of you for continuing to be there for sharing your voice, for protecting one another, for being there and standing up for your family and for our community. Thank you for joining me today. Check out our Apex Express Show notes to find out about how you can get involved. Learn about the Rising Voices campaign for Lue Yang and Mohan Khaki's GoFundMe. On November 3rd, 4:00 PM Pacific Time, 7:00 PM Eastern Time. Join us for We Belong here, Bhutanese and Hmong Americans in the Struggle Against Statelessness, a live virtual event featuring my three guests tonight, along with performances and conversations. Please check out our website, kpfa.org/program, apex Express to find out more about our show. APEX Express is a collective of activists that includes Ayame Keane-Lee, Anuj Vaidya, Cheryl Truong, Isabel Li, Jalena Keane-Lee, Miko Lee, Preeti Mangala Shekar and Swati Rayasam. Have a great night.     The post APEX Express – 10.30.25-We Belong! appeared first on KPFA.

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Shay Straayer, General Manager, Pickle and Pin, Grand Rapids, MI. 1. What inspired the vision behind Pickle & Pin, and how has your first year in business reflected or evolved from that original idea? 2. With strong partners like Pure Architects and Wolverine Construction, how have collaborations supported your growth and continued momentum? 3. You've welcomed nearly 4,000 visitors and hosted over 49 private events, what standout moments have you shared with the community during your first year? 4. As you head into another year in West Michigan, what exciting changes or new experiences can guests look forward to? 5. Why is now the right time for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and how does it reflect where Pickle & Pin is today? Pickle & Pin, celebrated opening their doors this past year by reintroducing themselves to West Michigan with a ribbon-cutting this Friday, October 17, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Highlights from Pickle & Pin's first year: 3,795+ visitors served 49+ private events hosted Strong partnerships with: Pure Architects, Wolverine Construction, TKS Security, Frontier Electrical, and more. Nominated for: Best of the West Neighborhood Award Associated Builders and Contractors Excellence in Construction Award the Pickle & Pin team talk about the impact they've made in the community and how they continue to bring swings, serves, and social fun to the West Michigan community! » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

CPT fellow and senior pastor of Calvary Church in Grand Rapids, Jim Samra, joins Joel Lawrence and Matt Kim for episode two of Preaching and the Pastor Theologian. Together, they explore the connection between a pastor's inner life and the ministry of preaching. Samra reflects on the church as a “pillar” and “conduit” between heaven and earth, emphasizing how a preacher's holiness and attentiveness to God enable this connection. He shares practical rhythms of prayer, fasting, accountability, and sermon preparation rooted in dependence on the Holy Spirit. The conversation also delves into his understanding of prophecy, hearing God's voice, and cultivating a congregation that listens for divine guidance. In closing, Samra discusses the importance of “cleaning up contaminated land” within the church—acknowledging past wounds and cultural sins so that the body of Christ can truly embody healing and holiness in its community and witness.Living Church - Awe and Presence

Welcome to Season 6 of Fans With Bands. In this episode, I talk with Jason Doome, the founder of Grand Rapids Doom Fest. Jason just completed the second Doom Fest and has already scheduled the next Doom Fest for Oct 10, 2026. During our chat we talked about how Doom Fest came to be and how rapidly it has grown. Of course, we talked about music and pizza.Grand Rapids Doom FestCheck out the Facebook GroupWatch Doom Fest 2 on YoutubeRead an interview with Jason on WOODTV8Fans With BandsSubscribe to Fans With Bands on your favorite podcast service such as Apple, Youtube, Spotify, Audible, or Amazon Music. Be sure to rate the show and please send us feedback. We would love to hear from you.You can also follow Fans With Bands on Facebook, Youtube, Instagram, and BlueskyFor samplings of music by artists featured on Fans With Bands, check out our playlist on Spotify Get full access to Fans With Bands at fanswithbands.substack.com/subscribe

The finale of the story of Rhonda Belle Thomley Alderman Garrett Gipson Martin Martin. Waas there a serial murderer at large, an Angel of Mercy, or was she actually a walking, talking bad luck charm of life? Our drink today comes from Robinnette's Apple Haus and Winery in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/murder-mischief-moscato--5466986/support.

On episode 96, Charles briefly praises a tiki bar in Grand Rapids, MI, and then talks to Shawnna Morris about her fascinating new book, The Cambridge Spy Ring: The Treachery of the Five Who Got Away. Among the topics they discussed were: Who were the Cambridge Spies? Why were they susceptible to recruitment? How did they get away with it? Why were none of them prosecuted or executed? Why does Shawnna find the Cold War so interesting?The dial-up tone in the introduction was recorded by lintphishx and is used under a CC 3.0 License. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Title: The Handwritten Habit: Use This Secret for Endless Referrals Host: Michael J. Maher Guest: Dave DeBruyn Description: In this inspiring episode, Michael J. Maher sits down with veteran Realtor and Generosity Generation advocate Dave DeBruyn from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dave has taken the annual Notevember Challenge—writing 30 handwritten notes in 30 days—to an entirely new level. Each November, he writes up to 1,000 handwritten notes, and this single act of generosity fuels his referral business for the entire year. Dave shares how this powerful handwritten habit not only keeps him top of mind with his clients and community but also fills his life with gratitude, joy, and connection. You'll discover how a simple pen and paper can become your most effective—and heartfelt—marketing strategy. (7L) Referral Strategies Podcast Topics: Notevember, Handwritten Notes Special Offer: Join the Notevember Challenge today at www.Notevember.com

Does God still speak personally and clearly today, like he speaks to Phillip in Acts 8? Obedience to God's voice can lead to unexpected but life-changing outcomes. God speaks through Scripture, prayer, the Holy Spirit, and community. Believers can learn to recognize God's voice the same way they recognize a parent's—through familiarity and relationship.---Join us for service online or in-person in Grand Rapids every Sunday at 9AM & 10:45AM.Decided to follow Jesus? We would love to help you figure out what's next! Let us know at https://bit.ly/TLC-i-decidedStay Connected!Website: http://localchurchgr.orgFacebook: http://facebook.com/localchurchgrInstagram: http://instagram.com/localchurchgrWeekly Email Newsletter: https://bit.ly/trendingatTLCVisit & What to Expect: http://localchurchgr.org/expectEvents: http://my.localchurchgr.org/eventsIf you would like to support The Local Church GR's ministry and help us continue reaching people in the Grand Rapids area, click here: https://localchurchgr.org/giveNeed prayer? Please let us know! - https://localchurchgr.org/care

The Grand Rapids Griffins and Wilkes Barre Scranton Penguins are off to a blazing hot start to the 2025-26 season. A 5-0 start for the Griffins is the franchise record for hottest start to a season. The only other season they accomplished this feat was 2004-05. The Penguins are on a massive 7-0 streak to start the season.Both have huge games coming up in the last week of October. Their hopes are to keep the streak alive. On Monday, October 28, 2025, I sat down with Wilkes Barre Scranton Penguins beat reporter Sam Wismer of Olde City Sports to discuss what it's like to cover a wagon of a team. We also discussed a few other AHL and hockey related things !Enjoy!---------Johnny and Matt Gaudreau tribute that Sam Wismer released early this year. Part One : ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NREKKywDWjo&t=173s⁠Part Two : ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmh_AQ3YZKE&t=7s⁠---------TikTok : ⁠@imaraindancer⁠Youtube :⁠ @gracedbyrain⁠X: ⁠@GracedByRainPod⁠BlueSky : ⁠@imaraindancer.bsky.social⁠Facebook: ⁠ElaineShircliffWriter⁠------Graced By Rain LLC is run by Elaine Shircliff out of Michigan. The purpose of “Graced By Rain” is to highlight the beauty in life. You can read articles, blog posts, and creative writing posts, on ⁠⁠GracedByRain.com⁠⁠.------The Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL) are the farm team of the Detroit Red Wings (NHL). They play out of Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and are currently on a hot streak,starting the season 5-0. The Wilkes Barre Scranton Penguins (AHL) are the farm team of the Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL). They are currently on a 7-0 winning streak to start the 2025-26 season.

Coffee isn't just a drink; it's a ritual, a moment of calm, and a way to connect with your community. And in a city as creative and welcoming as Grand Rapids, there's no shortage of amazing places to grab your next cup. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to work, meet with friends, or simply savor that perfect latte, Grand Rapids has something for every coffee lover. It's time to highlight three of the best coffee shops in Grand Rapids, each with its own unique vibe and flavor.SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWLKp_rEg77NKMFthOTVeiw?sub_confirmation=1 Contact us now:Call or Text: (616) 330-2555Email: info@marketgr.comMoving to Grand Rapids? Pick up our FREE relocation guide!https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guideMore from Group Realtors:Website

Today, I am joined by Philosopher and author of Hungry Beautiful Animals, Matthew Halteman. Matt is is professor of philosophy at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and a fellow at the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics in the UK. He is the author of Compassionate Eating as Care of Creation and co-editor of Philosophy Comes to Dinner: Arguments about the Ethics of Eating.His book Hungry Beautiful Animals, of which we talk a lot about, is a heartfelt, humane, and humorous exploration of how going vegan can bring abundance into our lives.This is such a rich conversation of veganism, morality, abundance, leading with love, and the parallels we observe in the state of our world right now, Matt and I dig in deep with a lot of care, love, and laughs. To connect with Matt:Book website is here: www.hungrybeautifulanimals.comPersonal website is here: www.matthewchalteman.weebly.com Instagram is @hungrybeautifulanimals: https://www.instagram.com/hungrybeautifulanimals/ LinkedIn is https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-halteman-49b2b56b/ Mentioned in this episode:Ethos Farm to Health - https://www.ethosfarmtohealth.org/Nathan Nobis Ph.D - https://www.nathannobis.com/Clare Mann - https://vystopia.com/To connect with me:Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummusFor more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: ⁠https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists⁠Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.comSign up for meditation sessions hereSign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program hereJoin my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLCTheme Song ©2020 JP Winters ⁠@musicbyjpw⁠

This week, Ron Messelink wraps up our Colossians series, with his message All Supreme and All Sufficient: Part 5.We are so blessed you're joining us for this message.LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE!

This week, Lisa Chayer continues to teach on our Colossians series, with her message All Supreme and All Sufficient: Part 4.We are so blessed you're joining us for this message.LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE!

Nate Danielson returns to the Grand Rapids Griffins lineup after being out with an injury since the Red Wings preseason and makes an instant impact, Sebastian Cossa makes a statement with a 30 save shutout, the Griffins tie their best ever start to a season and remain one of the three undefeated teams in the American Hockey League, and so much more in this weeks episode! Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hockeytownwestpodcast Follow for highlights: X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/HockeytownWpod Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/hockeytownwpod.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hockeytownwestpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hockeytownwpod Sponsor: Everything Hockey Clothing Company: Use code WEST at everythinghockey.com for $3 off your entire order Thumbnail player photo credit: Grand Rapids Griffins #gogrg #ahl #americanhockeyleague #grandrapids #griffins #grandrapidsgriffins #Cossa #Danielson #Lombardi #Watson #DanWatson #toledo #toledowalleye #ourfishourfight #lgrw #RedWings #AxelSandinPellikka #treyaugustine #MSU #DetroitRedWings #Hockeytown #NHL #Hockey #HockeyLife #IceHockey #HockeyFans #RedWingsNation #DetroitSports #RedWingsHockey #LetsGoWings #DetroitVSEverybody #GoWings #yzerplan #yzerman #steveyzerman #NHLTradeDeadline #TradeDeadline #NHLRumors #NHLTrades #NHLDeadline #NHLTradeTalk #TradeRumors #HockeyRumors #NHLDiscussion #HockeyNews #NHLUpdates #NHLPlayoffs #StanleyCup #RoadToTheCup #QuestForTheCup #StanleyCupPlayoffs #NHLBracket #PlayoffPush #NHLWildcard #WinOrGoHome #Game7Mindset #ChasingTheCup #PlayoffHockey #ClutchHockey #StanleyCupFinals #NHLPlayoffHunt #BigGameMoments #HockeySeason #CupContenders #PlayoffMomentum #WildCardRace #MustWin #NHLHighlights #HockeyPodcast #HockeyTalk #SportsTalk #NHLNews #GoalieShowdown #PetrMrazek #AxelSandinPellikka #ClutchPerformance #HockeyAnalysis #NHLTonight #HockeyContent #SportsViral #HockeyCulture #GameDay #HockeyCommunity #BigPlays #NHLHighlights #HockeyPodcast #StanleyCupPlayoffs #NHLNews #HockeyTalk #HockeyLife #SportsTalk #nhlrumours #HockeyAnalysis #HockeyContent #RedWingsNation #DetroitSports #GoWings #caldercup #playoffs Draft Kings: Use code THPN when betting with Draft Kings Draft Kings Disclaimer: Call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Gambling Problem? Call 877- 8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY), If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (CO/IL/IN/LA/MD/MI/NJ/OH/PA/TN/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS/NH), 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), visit OPGR.org (OR), or 1-888-532-3500 (VA) 21+ (18+ NH/WY). Physically present in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/LA(select parishes)/MA/MD/MI/NH/NJ/NY/OH/OR/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. VOID IN ONT. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Bet $5 Get $150 offer (void in NH/OR): Valid 1 per new customer. Min. $5 deposit. Min $5 pre-game moneyline bet. Bet must win. $150 issued as six (6) $25 bonus bets. Promotional offer period Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Joe Chapp and co-host Cindy Berry dive into one of the most pivotal moments of the Detroit Red Wings' young season. From Michael Brant Nygaard's reassignment to Grand Rapids to the emergence of rookies Emmitt Finnie and Axel Sandin-Pelikka, this episode breaks down what's working, what's not, and what Todd McLellan needs to fix before the schedule tightens. Joe and Cindy examine the upcoming Western road trip — St. Louis, L.A., Anaheim, San Jose, and Vegas — and why November and December could define the Wings' playoff hopes. Can Detroit finally avoid its midseason collapse? Or are they setting up for another March heartbreak? ✅ Deep dive into lineup changes and analytics

Another Monday, another round of “The Beauty of the Grand Rapids Griffins”. On these segments, our host, Elaine Shircliff, discusses a few things that she found beautiful surrounding the Griffins. This weekend, I had a chance to speak with Head Coach Dan Watson and Goaltending Coach Roope Koistinen. During both interviews, they mentioned the importance of staying in the moment and enjoying what is in front of you. On this week's episode, I dove into the beauty of that sentiment. Share your favorite moments from the past week with Elaine at any of her socials below! ---------TikTok : ⁠@imaraindancer⁠Youtube :⁠ @gracedbyrain⁠X: ⁠@GracedByRainPod⁠BlueSky : ⁠@imaraindancer.bsky.social⁠Facebook: ⁠ElaineShircliffWriter⁠------Graced By Rain LLC is run by Elaine Shircliff out of Michigan. The purpose of “Graced By Rain” is to highlight the beauty in life. You can read articles, blog posts, and creative writing posts, on GracedByRain.com.------The Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL) are the farm team of the Detroit Red Wings (NHL). They play out of Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and are currently on a hot streak,starting the season 5-0. #GoGRG #GrandRapids #GrandRapidsMichigan #MinorLeagueHockey #LGRW #RedWings #DetroitRedWings #GrandRapidGriffins #Griffins #DanWatson #RoopeKoistinen #Finland #LiveInTheMoment #Beauty #BeautyOfHockey #Beaut #HockeyPodcast #Hockey #AHL #AmericanHockeyLeague #TheAHL #NHL #NationalHockeyLeague

We're celebrating Jocktober by revisiting Mojo in the Morning, a show that airs in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Toledo. Bianca is the newest member of the show and she might be super hot! Oh wait… nope, we checked her Instagram. Either way, she has an unpleasant conversation with a coworker and that becomes a call-in segment.  Trucker Andy joins the show to reveal that their listeners are cucks and that Mojo has the worst take ever on the NBA gambling scandal. Ray DeVito has a drunk cokehead on his show and talks to her like she's speaking coherently. Erock sent in an example of radio's dystopian future, the Fred Show's fake “waiting by the phone” segment, and a pre-recorded NYC morning show. Opie is back at Gebhard's with Ron the Waiter and they have the worst possible takes on ICE raids and the NBA gambling scandal. Kevin Brennan failed miserably trying to sabotage Stuttering John's standup show with Geno and Keanu in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Speaking of StutJo, he was wasted on Friday night with guest Ava Raiza who admits she visited his trans son's house. What?? We end with Net News and your voicemails. Andy's show - https://allapologiespodcast.com/ Support us, get bonus episodes, and watch live every Saturday and Wednesday: ⁠http://bit.ly/watp-patreon⁠ ⁠https://watp.supercast.tech/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

God has written a great story, and we are right in the middle of it. The middle is not an easy place to be. There are antichrists all around us and the spirit of antichrist is at work in this world. And even more, an Antichrist is coming. In this sermon we are encouraged to remember, it's still God's story and He is the author. Rescue is coming! Jesus is going to return! The question is are we ready for that return? Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: 1 John 2:28-29 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 26, 2025

As a lay leader of Traverse City Presbyterian Church, Linda Racine and a team of enthusiastic congregants prompted her church to start on a journey toward effective climate action. You can read about their commitment to creation care and learn about their 3 bright ideas for reducing carbon emissions in this congregation-led video. Traverse City Presbyterian took advantage of tools like the Interfaith Power and Light Carbon Assessment to understand their own energy use.Learn more about how Linda's denomination, the PCUSA, has committed to climate solutions in their Earth Pledge.Linda is also part of the Michigan Citizens Climate Lobby, which has local chapters all over the country.Many thanks to Linda and all the other terrific people who graciously hosted us when we visited Traverse City!Linda RacineTRANSCRIPTLinda Racine In 2022, there were multiple policies or overtures passed focused on creation care, and it really put out an alarm, saying “It's serious, folks, the Earth is really in trouble. So we need to take strong action.” And they were encouraging all churches to reduce their carbon emissions by at least 25% in the next four years and get it down to net zero or net positive by 2030.Debra RienstraWow. That's ambitious.Linda RacineVery ambitious. But a group of interested folks at church looked at that and said, “Let's do it. Let's go for it.”Debra Rienstra Welcome to the Refugia Podcast. I'm your host, Professor Debra Rienstra. Refugia are habitats in nature where life endures in times of crisis. We're exploring the concept of refugia as a metaphor, discovering how people of faith can become people of refugia: nurturing life-giving spaces in the earth, in our human cultural systems, and in our spiritual communities, even in this time of severe disturbance. This season, we're paying special attention to churches and Christian communities who have figured out how to address the climate crisis together as an essential aspect of their discipleship. Today, I'm talking with Linda Racine from the Presbyterian Church in Traverse City, Michigan. Linda happens to be Michigan co-coordinator for Citizen Climate Lobby, a role she adopted after a long career in academia. But I'm talking with Linda today in her role as a lay leader at the church. Traverse City Presbyterian, in many ways, is an ordinary congregation, but they are doing extraordinary work, integrating climate action into every aspect of church life. They have heat pumps, solar panels, native plantings, a pocket forest, educational programs and more. Their story demonstrates the importance of active pastoral and lay leadership, broad community buy-in, and denominational commitments. Linda will tell us their story. Let's get started.Debra RienstraLinda, thank you for talking with me today.Linda RacineOh, glad to be here.Debra RienstraIt's great to be here in your beautiful home, here in Traverse City. Thank you for your hospitality today, and I'm really excited to talk about the work of Traverse City Presbyterian Church. So I know you've been involved in the church for a long time. Maybe tell us a little bit about your personal background and how long you've been involved in the church.Linda Racine Oh, I think I joined about 25 years ago. We used we had been members at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church just down the street here, and it was actually our oldest son who was in high school at the time, going through confirmation class, and a lot of his friends were going to the Presbyterian Church, and he really wanted to go, and for a variety of reasons, we said, “Let's check it out.” And we've been members since. That was 25 years ago.Debra Rienstra Yeah, so you have been around for all of the adventures that your church has had in their creation care work. Yes, so let's start with that spark point. We're really interested in finding how these things begin with a church. So can you think back to the moment when something happened at the church that people began to work in earnest to respond to climate change as a community. What was that spark point for Traverse City Presbyterian?Linda Racine The thing that really kicked it off was Laura Jacobson, who manages/schedules things for our Wednesday night adult education, came to me because she knew I was really involved in Citizens Climate Lobby, which is a non-partisan volunteer organization. And, “Would you do a session on climate?” I wanted to, but I was also a little hesitant, just because, sadly, climate has become so politicized, and our church has had a long history—we're a purple church, check your politics at the door, and I was concerned about how people might receive it. So, I put together a presentation very thoughtfully about “How do I make this as non-political as possible?” But the heading for it was “Caring for God's Creation: a faith based approach to climate change.” I wasn't sure how it would go over. And at that time, we were getting maybe 20 people coming on Wednesday nights. 65 people came. The room was packed. So clearly there was a lot of interest.Debra Rienstra What year was this?Linda Racine It was like January of 2020, right before Covid hit.Debra Rienstra Goodness.Linda Racine So anyway, the evening went really well. Kind of started with a very broad based, here's what Scripture says. Here's what—oh, we did the Katharine Hayhoe video, which—she takes such a broad view of every faith tradition has something important to say about our responsibility to care for creation and for one another. So Katharine Hayhoe, then the Pope, and you know, went through some different traditions and how they're responding. And then did some information about what PCUSA was doing, which was new to me. I didn't really know what all our denomination—because it had never been talked about in our church. So went through that and offered the idea that our denomination has a certification process for creation care teams. And by the end, people were saying, “Let's do this!” There was an impromptu—somebody grabbed a piece of paper and pen, and “Who wants to be a part of the team?” And we got, I don't know, eight or 10 names on that list. Quickly got together and said, “Well, what do we want to do? Let's pitch it to our session.” So February's meeting, we had a proposal, and they all said, “Absolutely, let's go for it.” So that's what started it.Debra Rienstra What do you think prepared people to be that enthusiastic after one session? What was going on in the church? What are the congregation members like that makes you look back on that and say, “Yeah, we were somehow primed or prompted or ready for that moment.”Linda Racine I think that's hard to say. Our church has always—I guess what drew me to the church initially is it was really clear this was a community that really walked the talk. It wasn't coming on Sunday to check a box, but really genuinely living their faith. And people of faith were called to care for creation. And so I think that was a strong ethic that people had anyway. And clearly, by 2020, we're seeing, “Oh my gosh, this earth is in trouble.” That was pretty clear. And so, just to have a topic on—let's gather on Wednesday night and talk about it. I think people were ready.Debra Rienstra Fascinating, yeah. And I wonder if, because up north here in Michigan, this beautiful area of Michigan, people are very aware of the outdoors. So many people care a lot about the natural world around here and enjoy it. Summer up here is so beautiful. So I wonder if it was just a little bit of a more natural leap there.Linda Racine I think you've got a point there. People are drawn to this area because of its natural amazingness. And so there is a strong environmental ethic here. I mean, look at the land conservancy: all the explosion since that launched back in the 90s, I believe. The number of just natural areas that have been preserved, the whole Sleeping Bear sand dunes could have been development, but that has been preserved. There is a strong environmental ethic here. No question.Debra Rienstra Yeah, yeah. So what happened next? How did you go about inviting the whole congregation into a process that—you didn't know what was going to happen next. You have this spark moment. But then what happened?Linda Racine I think the structure of the certification process really drove that. It's so solid. When a church decides to do that, you're committing to really look at how you manage your facilities, how your worship embraces this, how your education programs, and advocacy—that's always been the toughest one. But those four areas. First you assess, where are we now? And then, what are your church's goals? And so that involved, in order to do that and to get all the committees in the church involved: what are you doing currently, and what would you like to do? What would you like to see happen in the next year? So every committee was involved in setting goals. The pastor support was critical. Oh my gosh, without that, this wouldn't have gone anywhere. Pastors have been, right from the beginning, very supportive. One Sunday, the whole church read the pledge.Debra Rienstra The Earth Care Pledge from the Presbyterian Church, okay.Linda Racine Yeah, yeah. So people were aware that that was going on. And then people have different interests. “I'm really excited about this piece of it or that piece of it.” So always open to anyone who wants to jump in and get involved to do that. But I think it's the discipline, the structure and the discipline, of that certification process that keeps us on track.Debra Rienstra Okay, yeah, and it sounds like you were able to get that certification pretty quickly, because you've had it since 2020, so pretty quickly you got the certification.Linda Racine Yeah, I think that first year, we filled out all the forms and sent goals, and then you submit that and get the certification, they review it at the denominational level,Debra Rienstra Yeah. So it seems, from all the conversations I've had with church folks this weekend that the physical plant aspects became a big part of it, first, as well as the landscaping and grounds aspects. So talk a little bit about the processes of those things happening.Linda Racine Well, one of the first projects that first year was converting pieces of ground. We had a bed out front that was dying. Some of the bushes were dying. And a couple of our church members, Gary Richardson and Cheryl Gross, were aware of a National Wildlife Federation grant opportunity. And so Gary was a member of Building and Grounds and took the idea to that committee, and they were all supportive of it. So we submitted the grant. We got $1,500 to get us started. And so work crews showed up. We ripped out the old plants. Then that also connected to the education piece. That's one of one of those other four areas. Our children's education person was absolutely passionate. So the Vacation Bible School that summer focused on pollinators. So we did a whole education piece on the role of pollinators and their importance, and then the kids helped plant the new pollinator garden.Debra Rienstra Yeah, awesome.Linda Racine Yeah. It was fabulous.Debra Rienstra So it sounds like what we need is enthusiasm across the leadership. Yeah. And the leadership working together.Linda Racine Absolutely.Debra Rienstra And I think you folks at this church have so many—not only enthusiastic, but really skilled leaders. You have organization experience. You have Cheryl, who does native plants as a passion. I had a wonderful tour today with Randy, who was excited about boilers and transferring those to heat pumps, which was so delightful to hear about. And at some point, the church made this wonderful video, which we'll link in the show notes, explaining the goals—the three bright ideas, goals. So talk about how that happened.Linda Racine That was triggered by our denomination's policy, where, as a denomination, delegates meet every two years to look at policy for the church. And in 2022, there were multiple policies or overtures passed focused on creation care, and it really put out an alarm, saying, “It's serious, folks. The earth is really in trouble, so we need to take strong action.” And they were encouraging all churches to reduce their carbon emissions by at least 25% in the next four years and get it down to net zero or net positive by 2030.Debra Rienstra Wow, that's ambitious.Linda Racine Very ambitious. But a group of interested folks at church looked at that and said, “Let's do it. Let's go for it.” So you need to start—understand where you are first before you can reduce something. So we use the Interfaith Power and Light carbon assessment. And Chris Wendland, who you met, really drove that train, and she and Randy both worked with staff to gather all the—here's our electric bills and our gas bills and all the stuff needed to submit that. And so then we got this feedback about, “Here's where you are.” And then it was, “Okay, now what do we do?” And so another church member said, “Let's talk with Tim Pulliam,” who was—he's the owner, executive, I don't know what his title, but he runs Keen Technical Solutions who, for I don't know, 25 years have been really focused on clean energy transformation.Debra Rienstra This is also a member of the church?Linda Racine Tim Pulliam is not, but it was a church member who recommended him. So Tim brought a team of folks in and looked at all this stuff, and they said, “Well, the thing you could—that would make the biggest impact the quickest would be changing all your lighting to LED.” So that seemed like a no brainer. We also had this ancient boiler that was ready to die any minute, and people were starting to panic about that. And so, okay, we got to do something there. And then there were a lot of people in the church saying, “Can we put solar panels up?” Because there's so many great things about the solar. Not only is it good for the clean energy, but it's also a public statement. It really is a public witness, and it helps normalize, because there's still so many people out there who think, “Oh, this is Northern Michigan. You can't— solar is worthless here.” Well, actually, it's not.Debra Rienstra Actually, it's not, especially because we have such very long summer days.Linda Racine Yes, yeah. And so anyway, there was a lot of enthusiasm around that. So kind of gathered after Sunday, after church on Sunday, anybody who wanted to come and talked about, “Well, here's what the report said, and what do we think?” And so there was interest in all three of those ideas. So we created task forces. People said, “Yeah, I'll work on this.” And everybody, the groups, had about three months to do their homework, come back with, “Here's what we think the options are and what it's going to cost.” And that in about April of that year, we heard what people had to say, and people wanted to do all three.Debra Rienstra Yeah, that's just amazing. Was there resistance at all? Were there people who were resistant?Linda Racine I'm not remembering that. Maybe they weren't showing up at the meetings. Are they quiet? I don't know. I don't remember. I mean, there's always questions about, “Well, will solar really work?” There were questions about, “Well, can we afford it?” And that was maybe the biggest concern. But people had done quite a bit of research on that, and between the very low interest loans that our denomination offers—that was huge, the potential for grants. And we did end up getting an $80,000 grant from our local utility. And then at that time there were IRA dollars available. That's a question mark right now, but the combination of that, and then when you look at the energy savings, it's like, “Okay, what we're going to save in electric bills is probably going to be pretty darn close to covering our monthly loan payment.” So when people saw that, it was like, collective, “Okay, sure, this is doable.”Debra Rienstra So at that point was the video made at that point?Linda Racine Yes, because the next step was, “Okay. So we've got maybe 50 people in the room. We've got 600 people in the church. How do we get everybody involved?” So putting together a strategy for really getting everyone enthused about it. And so the idea for the video came up. And Ray Starkenberg and her dad are professional videographers.Debra Rienstra Once again, talent in the congregation.Linda RacineOh my gosh. And so they took that project on. And you've seen the video, it's just amazing. The storytelling is so well done.Debra Rienstra It's playful, it's persuasive, it's full of facts. And I love the theme, you know, “the time is now” is the theme of the video, and the involvement of kids in the video saying their piece, saying, “This is about me and my future. Please help.” It's just—and that combined with the playfulness, it's just brilliant.Linda Racine It's a good balance, isn't it? Yeah. And a couple things about that. One member of the church, after seeing the video, said, “If this was just about buying a new boiler, I wouldn't be that enthused. But this is about the future. There was so much enthusiasm in the church after really hearing the whole story and the possibilities there. I do want to mention, that theme, “the time is now,” that's right out of the overture that was passed by our general assembly.Debra Rienstra Yeah. Once again, that denominational leadership is so important.Linda Racine Yeah, that was in that very first overture in 2022 talking about how serious this moment in time is and the time is now to act.Debra Rienstra Hi, it's me, Debra. If you are enjoying this podcast episode, go ahead and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. If you have a minute, leave a review. Good reviews help more listeners discover this podcast. To keep up with all the Refugia news, I invite you to subscribe to the Refugia newsletter on Substack. This is my fortnightly newsletter for people of faith who care about the climate crisis and want to go deeper. Every two weeks, I feature climate news, deeper dives, refugia sightings and much more. Join our community at refugianewsletter.substack.com. For even more goodies, including transcripts and show notes for this podcast, check out my website at debrarienstra.com. D-E-B-R-A-R-I-E-N-S-T-R-A dot com. Thanks so much for listening. We're glad you're part of this community. And now back to the interview.Debra RienstraSo how was the video used and disseminated?Linda Racine We started doing some meetings, just in homes, small groups, eight or 10 people. Showing the video, and then having a discussion. And that was the first step, and getting people's questions answered, and then Sunday morning it was in the service. And, wow.Debra Rienstra So it worked, so to speak, yeah.Linda Racine And then it's been on our website ever since. The thing is that video has gone—I wouldn't say viral, but it has been broadly, broadly disseminated.Debra Rienstra Oh, I can see why. I think every church should imitate it as best they can. Yeah, I mean the statistics—the numbers are specific to you folks.Linda Racine Yeah, the storytelling though, the power of that, are things that other churches can use, yes.Debra Rienstra And it stars many people from your church. So the stars of the show are your fellow congregants.Linda Racine And they're all people who have really stepped up and wanted to be and are a key part of this.Debra Rienstra So at this point you have—the heat pump system is well underway. Solar panels are sitting on the roof waiting for installation when the snow melts. You have education programs going. Maybe we'll come back to that. Quite a lot of landscaping work, quite a lot of native planting done, really neat native gardens. You have a pocket forest going. So as far as the four things, the four elements of earth care congregation: it's the building, the landscaping...Linda Racine Well, those are kind of together, so how you manage your facilities.Debra Rienstra Okay, what are the other three again?Linda Racine Worship. And pastors lead that, and they do that beautifully. That first year that we received certification, we had a kickoff celebration in the prayer garden that was just lovely. And so that theme gets worked into the worship by the pastors.Debra Rienstra Yeah, give some examples of how that happens in worship. Are there sermons? Is it in the litanies, in the music?Linda Racine Hmm, probably all of the above.Debra Rienstra Yeah. Okay, and you have two worship services. So this has to be done in two different ways, so it requires a little creativity.Linda Racine Yeah, although often in the spring, especially around earth— there can be combined services. We do a combined service once a month anyway, and so there have been a couple earth care themed services, that way it was one service.Debra Rienstra Yeah. And then do you have anything special for Earth Day or Season of Creation?Linda Racine Usually, yes, on like Wednesday, well, that would be more the education piece, but usually on the Wednesday nights, we've done something big related to earth care. This year, we're telling our story. We've got a thing planned for that Wednesday of Earth Week. We're inviting every church in the region to come and hear the story. Our contractor will be there to answer questions, and resource people, the Light and Power folks will be there. So if they have questions about, “Well, what programs do you have?” And there are other churches in the area also that are doing similar things. So it'll be a good chance to share stories also and learn from one another. So we're doing— that's the plan for this during Earth Care Week.Debra Rienstra So just to make the refugia connection there, as Traverse City Presbyterian is operating as a refugia place, a refugia space, doing their work, modeling that work, with this idea of getting other churches together, you're creating those corridors and creating that whole network to let these life giving capacities spread and grow. That's brilliant. Really great idea.Linda Racine Another thing that we've done, we've got a racial justice task force that has, over the last several years, made a very focused effort to build relationship with the local tribe. And so the last, I think, three Lent seasons that we've had a Lenten series where inviting tribal leadership into talk about the—to educate us about the history of the tribe and practices and beliefs, and whereas much of that is focused on caring for the earth, caring for Mother Earth, it's central, yeah. So we've learned a lot and helped make a connection with that.Debra Rienstra I noticed in your bulletin, there's a land acknowledgement. And also I noticed you have a garden specifically co-cared for with the indigenous folk around.Linda Racine Not yet.Debra Rienstra Okay, that's in the plans.Linda Racine Yes, it's on the plans to—because in one of the sessions where a tribal leader was talking about...it was right after the land acknowledgement had been created. And the talking through that, someone at the end asked, “So, what's next?” You know, we really, our heart is in this land acknowledgement, what's next? And her response was, “When you care for the earth, you care for the Anishinaabek and what we believe in.” So that sparked this thing in my head of, “Oh my, here's a beautiful opportunity.” And we followed up, thinking, if we could learn from tribal leadership on how to create a healing garden, we'd love to do that. And so we have had one of the tribal leaders come and help educate us about a healing garden, what all it involves. And we've created a space. It's all smothered and ready to go. And the first thing that we would like to plant there is a plum tree. Because what we learned from her, I had no idea, but apparently, the plum tree is a has a very special place in the Anishinaabek story, where—my understanding is that plum trees were very prevalent in the Grand Rapids area, and when the Dutch came and settled that area, the plum trees were taken out. And so, in fact, it was hard when she came to meet with us, she had brought a plum tree as a gift, and we didn't have a place to put it. Broke my heart. But we so would love that to be the center of this healing garden. So we've got, you know, ground is all ready. We weren't even sure where it ought to go. And so anyway, so we've got a spot, because she helped us find a place for the healing garden. So as soon as we can reconnect, and they have the time, though, we're going to get that garden launched.Debra Rienstra Wow, that's beautiful. And will it be medicinal plants?Linda Racine That's the thought, yes.Debra Rienstra So healing plants, but also healing a relationship.Linda Racine Both, yes, all three, yeah, all three things.Debra Rienstra Beautiful. So a lot of churches struggle with—I've been sort of calling it the “boutique issue” problem, which is to say, you have, you know, your creation care folk, and they have a green team or something, and they kind of do their little thing off to the side, and other people have other issues that they're dealing with, and it's really hard to get that creation care work to infuse through, to diffuse through the whole congregation's life. And it sounds like that happened fairly organically. So what advice would you have for other churches that struggle with that boutique issue problem?Linda Racine Well, I think the strength of the PCUSA certification process is what allowed that to happen or fostered that. Because when you've got—you're required or expected to set goals in very comprehensive list of how the church functions, it really requires everybody to be involved. And so right from the beginning, pretty much every committee was asked to look at, what are we doing related to creation care, and what do we want to do? And every year that gets repeated. So there's a clear—we've got a pace of it. It's built into the planning structure. Every fall, the committees are looking at their goals around everything but creation care is on the list, and they're looking at their budgets to submit for the final reports and what happens next year. So it's really built into the fabric and structure of how we operate. So if it weren't for that, it would be a committee off to the side doing whatever it does. But really, everyone in all committees are involved.Debra Rienstra So it sounds like that answers my next question too, which has to do with the problem of “fade.” So by that, I mean everybody gets excited. You replace the boiler, you replace the LED lights, or replace lights with LED, and then...yeah, this enthusiasm sort of fades. But it sounds like that annual goal-setting process with an indefinite horizon, like there's no end point to that, right? So that annual goal-setting process also helps with that fade problem.Linda Racine I think it's key.Debra Rienstra One last question, what has been most challenging and most joyful about the transformation that Traverse City Presbyterian has gone through in a mere five years?Linda Racine I don't know that anything has been particularly hard, but oh my gosh, the joy. Ah. Just so many examples. When we decided that there was this huge section of lawn that was totally unusable as lawn, let's turn it into a pocket forest. And we were able to get a local tree trimmer to donate the wood chips to smother it. And we have this huge group of people with two truckloads or three, I don't know how many truckloads of stuff. We're out with the wheelbarrows spreading stuff. We're having so much fun. Jordan is sliding down it like it's a ski slope. We're just having a great time, and I'm looking around and thinking, “I absolutely love this community.” They're so committed to being the best stewards of creation and one another. Yeah, it's not hard, it's just wonderful.Debra Rienstra Linda, it's been such a pleasure to talk to you. There's been joy in this conversation, too. Thank you for your time. Thank you for all that you do and blessings on Traverse City Presbyterian.Debra Rienstra Thanks for joining us for show notes and full transcripts, please visit debrarienstra.com and click on the Refugia Podcast tab. This season of the Refugia Podcast is produced with generous funding from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. Colin Hoogerwerf is our awesome audio producer. Thanks to Ron Rienstra for content consultation as well as technical and travel support. Till next time, be well. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit refugianewsletter.substack.com

Sermon date: 10-26-25 Location: City Life Church, Grand Rapids, MI

AEI Colleague Week is off with a bang as Jonah Goldberg dives deep with Kori Schake on the interplay between the American military and government. They survey history and current events alike, covering the Whiskey Rebellion, Andrew Jackson's invasion of Florida, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's meeting of the generals, and the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. Shownotes:—The State and the Soldier—Bret Devereaux's Dispatch author page—Jonah on Congress—Live Remnant recording in Grand Rapids on November 4—Jack Goldsmith on the Insurrection Act The Remnant is a production of ⁠The Dispatch⁠, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch's offerings—including access to all of Jonah's G-File newsletters—⁠click here⁠. If you'd like to remove all ads from your podcast experience, consider becoming a premium Dispatch member ⁠by clicking here⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WWP NIGHT w/ the DETROIT RED WINGS (Nov. 15th vs. BUF) TICKETS:  https://www.gofevo.com/event/WingedWheelPodcast11-15 WWP NIGHT w/ the GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS TICKETS ON SALE NOW: https://griffinshockey.com/wwp MAKE IT FIVE STRAIGHT IN HOCKEYTOWN! Tune in as we open by discussing the Detroit Red Wings and their now 5 game win streak, starting with their win over Vasilevskiy and the Tampa Bay Lightning: Axel Sandin-Pellikka's 1st goal, John Gibson's redemption in net, Todd McLellan coaching the Red Wings to a dominant playstyle, and Dylan Larkin's heroic overtime winner in Hockeytown (4:00). Next, their win over Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and the Edmonton Oilers, Emmitt Finnie's 1st career goal (& 2nd!), Dylan Larkin's 2 goals & 4 point night, another John Gibson win, Lucas Raymond returning to the lineup as Patrick Kane was out with injury (Brandsegg-Nygard in his spot), & more (18:00). Also, a discussion on how solid the Detroit Red Wings defense currently looks under Trent Yawney (Moritz Seider and Ben Chiarot, Simon Edvinsson and Axel Sandin-Pellikka, and Albert Johansson and Jacob Bernard-Docker), the Red Wings leading the Atlantic Division, Larkin & Finnie among NHL leaders, & more (27:10). After that, trade rumors in Detroit as Steve Yzerman may be looking to shed some roster jams via Erik Gustafsson, Justin Holl, or others (Berggren? Another depth forward?), as well as updates on Nate Danielson's potential return as the team has him, Mazur, & so many others waiting in Grand Rapids (36:00). Finally, NHL news & ridiculous stories (45:35) before we take your questions and comments in our Overtime segment (58:10) - enjoy! Head over to wingedwheelpodcast.com to find all the ways to listen, how to support the show, and so much more! This episode is brought to you by Green Light Lending: gogreenlightlending.com #ad Support the Jamie Daniels Foundation through Wings Money on the Board: https://www.wingedwheelpodcast.com/wingsmotb

WWP NIGHT w/ the DETROIT RED WINGS (Nov. 15th vs. BUF) TICKETS:  https://www.gofevo.com/event/WingedWheelPodcast11-15 WWP NIGHT w/ the GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS TICKETS ON SALE NOW: https://griffinshockey.com/wwp MAKE IT FIVE STRAIGHT IN HOCKEYTOWN! Tune in as we open by discussing the Detroit Red Wings and their now 5 game win streak, starting with their win over Vasilevskiy and the Tampa Bay Lightning: Axel Sandin-Pellikka's 1st goal, John Gibson's redemption in net, Todd McLellan coaching the Red Wings to a dominant playstyle, and Dylan Larkin's heroic overtime winner in Hockeytown (4:00). Next, their win over Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and the Edmonton Oilers, Emmitt Finnie's 1st career goal (& 2nd!), Dylan Larkin's 2 goals & 4 point night, another John Gibson win, Lucas Raymond returning to the lineup as Patrick Kane was out with injury (Brandsegg-Nygard in his spot), & more (18:00). Also, a discussion on how solid the Detroit Red Wings defense currently looks under Trent Yawney (Moritz Seider and Ben Chiarot, Simon Edvinsson and Axel Sandin-Pellikka, and Albert Johansson and Jacob Bernard-Docker), the Red Wings leading the Atlantic Division, Larkin & Finnie among NHL leaders, & more (27:10). After that, trade rumors in Detroit as Steve Yzerman may be looking to shed some roster jams via Erik Gustafsson, Justin Holl, or others (Berggren? Another depth forward?), as well as updates on Nate Danielson's potential return as the team has him, Mazur, & so many others waiting in Grand Rapids (36:00). Finally, NHL news & ridiculous stories (45:35) before we take your questions and comments in our Overtime segment (58:10) - enjoy! Head over to wingedwheelpodcast.com to find all the ways to listen, how to support the show, and so much more! This episode is brought to you by Green Light Lending: gogreenlightlending.com #ad Support the Jamie Daniels Foundation through Wings Money on the Board: https://www.wingedwheelpodcast.com/wingsmotb

God loves to take the ancient truth of the gospel and breathe new life into it. In Acts 7 & 8, we read of the persecution and scattering of Christians as Jewish leaders tried to stop the spread of the gospel. But this physical movement of Jesus's followers to a new place ignited a bigger movement of the Spirit in people's hearts.---Join us for service online or in-person in Grand Rapids every Sunday at 9AM & 10:45AM.Decided to follow Jesus? We would love to help you figure out what's next! Let us know at https://bit.ly/TLC-i-decidedStay Connected!Website: http://localchurchgr.orgFacebook: http://facebook.com/localchurchgrInstagram: http://instagram.com/localchurchgrWeekly Email Newsletter: https://bit.ly/trendingatTLCVisit & What to Expect: http://localchurchgr.org/expectEvents: http://my.localchurchgr.org/eventsIf you would like to support The Local Church GR's ministry and help us continue reaching people in the Grand Rapids area, click here: https://localchurchgr.org/giveNeed prayer? Please let us know! - https://localchurchgr.org/care

The red hot Grand Rapids Griffins have started the season 4-0 for just the third time in franchise history and newcomer Eduards Tralmaks has made an instant impact on this team. Carter Mazur stays hot and the Griffins might have the best goalie tandem in the AHL. That and a whole lot more on this weeks show! Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hockeytownwestpodcast Follow for highlights: X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/HockeytownWpod Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/hockeytownwpod.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hockeytownwestpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hockeytownwpod Sponsor: Everything Hockey Clothing Company: Use code WEST at everythinghockey.com for $3 off your entire order Thumbnail player photo credit: Grand Rapids Griffins #gogrg #ahl #americanhockeyleague #grandrapids #griffins #grandrapidsgriffins #Cossa #Danielson #Lombardi #Watson #DanWatson #toledo #toledowalleye #ourfishourfight #lgrw #RedWings #AxelSandinPellikka #treyaugustine #MSU #DetroitRedWings #Hockeytown #NHL #Hockey #HockeyLife #IceHockey #HockeyFans #RedWingsNation #DetroitSports #RedWingsHockey #LetsGoWings #DetroitVSEverybody #GoWings #yzerplan #yzerman #steveyzerman #NHLTradeDeadline #TradeDeadline #NHLRumors #NHLTrades #NHLDeadline #NHLTradeTalk #TradeRumors #HockeyRumors #NHLDiscussion #HockeyNews #NHLUpdates #NHLPlayoffs #StanleyCup #RoadToTheCup #QuestForTheCup #StanleyCupPlayoffs #NHLBracket #PlayoffPush #NHLWildcard #WinOrGoHome #Game7Mindset #ChasingTheCup #PlayoffHockey #ClutchHockey #StanleyCupFinals #NHLPlayoffHunt #BigGameMoments #HockeySeason #CupContenders #PlayoffMomentum #WildCardRace #MustWin #NHLHighlights #HockeyPodcast #HockeyTalk #SportsTalk #NHLNews #GoalieShowdown #PetrMrazek #AxelSandinPellikka #ClutchPerformance #HockeyAnalysis #NHLTonight #HockeyContent #SportsViral #HockeyCulture #GameDay #HockeyCommunity #BigPlays #NHLHighlights #HockeyPodcast #StanleyCupPlayoffs #NHLNews #HockeyTalk #HockeyLife #SportsTalk #nhlrumours #HockeyAnalysis #HockeyContent #RedWingsNation #DetroitSports #GoWings #caldercup #playoffs Draft Kings: Use code THPN when betting with Draft Kings Draft Kings Disclaimer: Call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Gambling Problem? Call 877- 8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY), If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (CO/IL/IN/LA/MD/MI/NJ/OH/PA/TN/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS/NH), 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), visit OPGR.org (OR), or 1-888-532-3500 (VA) 21+ (18+ NH/WY). Physically present in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/LA(select parishes)/MA/MD/MI/NH/NJ/NY/OH/OR/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. VOID IN ONT. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Bet $5 Get $150 offer (void in NH/OR): Valid 1 per new customer. Min. $5 deposit. Min $5 pre-game moneyline bet. Bet must win. $150 issued as six (6) $25 bonus bets. Promotional offer period Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this message, we see that the Bible makes it clear there is an end-time Antichrist figure coming. We don't know when, but it is already decreed and there is no stopping it. The far bigger concern for us today though is that the spirit of antichrist is rampant in our culture and in our world. This message tells the story of the Antichrist and helps us recognize that spirit of antichrist at work in this world. As we listen, we'll learn to embrace the Spirit of the real Christ, the Spirit of the True Messiah so we are not led astray. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 2:18-27 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 19, 2025

In this message, we see that the Bible makes it clear there is an end-time Antichrist figure coming. We don't know when, but it is already decreed and there is no stopping it. The far bigger concern for us today though is that the spirit of antichrist is rampant in our culture and in our world. This message tells the story of the Antichrist and helps us recognize that spirit of antichrist at work in this world. As we listen, we'll learn to embrace the Spirit of the real Christ, the Spirit of the True Messiah so we are not led astray. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 2:18-27 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 19, 2025

God has written a great story, and we are right in the middle of it. The middle is not an easy place to be. There are antichrists all around us and the spirit of antichrist is at work in this world. And even more, an Antichrist is coming. In this sermon we are encouraged to remember, it's still God's story and He is the author. Rescue is coming! Jesus is going to return! The question is are we ready for that return? Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: 1 John 2:28-29 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 26, 2025

We're back in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for episode 2 of season 7, graciously hosted by Good Good Good Wine & Flowers. Owners Kyle and Sam run this supercool wine bar and retail shop on Plainfield Ave. NE; stop in if you're town, but be sure to check 'em out and give them a follow on Instagram at @goodgoodgoodgr, too.Kyle also joined our discussion panel, alongside Jaime Haener of wine wholesale distributor AHD Vintners, and Nadim Audi of the acclaimed wine import company Selection Massale. Their conversation was friendly, witty, and disarmingly open, highlighting why we brought the show to GR in the first place: it's a community of terrific wine enthusiasts! Our panelists strategically deciphered the Wine Cipher segment, and easily saw through what we thought were cleverly deceptive, fake wine news stories.You'll also meet Tom Cariano, the winemaker of new, northern Michigan winery, Thomas Acker Wines. One of his wines was tasted blind by the panelists, and you'll love to hear what they thought of it!Settle in and enjoy the discussion, and don't be shy to laugh out loud with us. It's a full 1hr 9mins of quality entertainment. Thanks for listening, and please Like and follow our channel. Please also follow us on Instagram at @therealwineshow.

In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Mary Jennings, Executive Director with The Grand Rapids Ballet, and James Sofranko, the Artistic Director with the Grand Rapids Ballet.Mary and James joined us on the program for a preview of the 2025–2026 season.The season kicks off with the world premiere production of “Sherlock"--October 24-26, 2025, at Peter Martin Wege Theatre. Next up is the timeless holiday classic, “The Nutcracker", December 12-14 & 19-21 at DeVos Performance Hall, and three other dynamic productions throughout the remainder of the Ballet's 2025-2026 season. Tickets for all shows, as well as more information, are available at grballet.comOnline: The Grand Rapids Ballet

Have you ever struggled with doubts concerning your salvation? Today, Joel Beeke gives practical advice to help Christians overcome doubt and live in the joy of assurance. Request Assurance of Faith, Joel Beeke's video teaching series, with your donation of any amount. We'll send you the DVD and give you lifetime digital access to the series and study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4339/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global    Meet Today's Teacher:   Joel Beeke is president and professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and a pastor at Heritage Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, MI.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Send us a textThe guys catch with Elliot Eisenberg, the Bowtie Economist to talk all things economy, from tariffs to supply chain to consumer confidence. While Eisenberg says that the economy is at a B-, there are still things to be optimistic about. Check out his presentation, “Economic Crystal Ball: What the Trends Mean for Your Business," at PHCC CONNECT in Grand Rapids, Wednesday, October 28 at 8:00 am.Visit our sponsor at www.webstonevalves.comSubscribe to the Appetite for Construction podcast at any of your favorite streaming channels and don't forget about the other ways to interact with the Mechanical Hub Team! Follow Plumbing Perspective IG @plumbing_perspective Follow Mechanical Hub IG @mechanicalhub Sign up for our newsletter at www.mechanical-hub.com/enewsletter Visit our websites at www.mechanical-hub.com and www.plumbingperspective.com Send John and Tim your feedback or topic ideas: @plumbing_perspective

The Holy Spirit bears witness to genuine believers that they are the children of God (Rom. 8:16). Today, Joel Beeke examines five evidences of the Spirit's witness in the life of a Christian. Request Assurance of Faith, Joel Beeke's video teaching series, with your donation of any amount. We'll send you the DVD and give you lifetime digital access to the series and study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4339/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Listen every weekday to Things Unseen, Ligonier's devotional podcast with Sinclair Ferguson: https://ligonier.org/thingsunseen    Meet Today's Teacher:   Joel Beeke is president and professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and a pastor at Heritage Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, MI.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Mark Peters is the Chief Executive Officer of Butterball Farms, Inc., which was nationally recognized as one of The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® from 2018 to 2025. Most recently, named a Top 101 Companies to Work For® in the nation. The second-generation family business, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is America's leading producer of culinary butter and margarine and creates custom butter flavors for some of America's biggest brands.  Peters began as a factory worker in his father's company at the age of 12: an experience that taught him first-hand about the challenges that frontline workers face. At 30, he took over the company determined to lead a financially successful business that would also enrich the lives of its workers. In 2003, he organized a pioneering group of CEOs and community leaders to found The SOURCE, a not-for-profit organization that has helped hundreds of workers navigate personal challenges that were interfering with their jobs and delivered an average annual return on investment of 200 percent to its partner organizations. This West Michigan-based model has been replicated in nearly 12 states; and Peters is currently expanding its mission to help frontline workers not only maintain their jobs but progress into better positions within or across partner companies.  His second book, The Retention Trap,  was published June 3 of 2025 and highlights the need to rethink talent and focus on investment rather than retention. Recognized by numerous companies from Ernst & Young to McDonalds for his leadership, Peters is an engaging speaker and storyteller who has addressed TED-x and other audiences. He lives in Grand Rapids with his daughter and dog and is an avid boater, biker, and skier. To know more about Mark visit his website: www.i-3leadership.com

I am so excited for you to listen to my conversation with the incredible Linzie Hermsmeyer, a high-performance coach, former college athlete, and all-around powerhouse. We dive deep into what it truly means to be a strong woman, not from a place of hustle and burnout, but from a place of being deeply anchored in Christ. This conversation was so timely for me, and I know it will be for you too, as we unpack how to push through challenges and build resilience God's way. Linzie shares her powerful "GRIT" framework—Growth, Resilience, Intentionality, and Tenacity—which is a game-changer for pursuing your calling without losing yourself in the process.   In this episode, you'll discover: The crucial mindset shift that turns a difficult season from something you just get through to something you can grow through. Why "intentionality" is the secret weapon against burnout and the key to aligning your daily actions with your ultimate mission. The surprising reason that consistent, small "reps" matter more than talent, and how to keep going when you feel bored, discouraged, or like nothing is happening. The one foundational truth you must anchor your identity in to stop seeking affirmation from the world and find unshakeable strength.   Join The Firebrand Story Room: October 17–18 in Grand Rapids (only a couple tickets left!) → https://melissaleahughes.com/firebrand-story-room   Website: www.melissaleahughes.com Social Channels: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissaleahughes Melissa's IG: https://www.instagram.com/melissaleahughes/ Rise's IG: https://www.instagram.com/risesocialmediaagency/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissa.harrington.758 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissaleahughes   Linzie Hermsmeyer: Website: https://linziescoaching.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/linziehermsmeyer/ Free Guide: https://linziescoaching.myflodesk.com/morningroutine Services Page: https://linziescoaching.com/services    

Our assurance of salvation can increase or diminish over time. Why does this happen? And what should we do about it? Today, Joel Beeke considers reasons why a Christian may lose a sense of assurance and how it can be renewed. Request Assurance of Faith, Joel Beeke's video teaching series, with your donation of any amount. We'll send you the DVD and give you lifetime digital access to the series and study guide:  https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4339/offer Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series and study guide with your donation:  https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Meet Today's Teacher: Joel Beeke is president and professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and a pastor at Heritage Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, MI. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Meditating on the Bible is the primary road God provides for our pursuit of holiness, spiritual growth, and assurance of faith. Today, Joel Beeke looks at four spiritual disciplines that help us cultivate our assurance. Request Assurance of Faith, Joel Beeke's video teaching series, with your donation of any amount. We'll send you the DVD and give you lifetime digital access to the series and study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4339/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global    Meet Today's Teacher:   Joel Beeke is president and professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and a pastor at Heritage Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, MI.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In this nonprofit spotlight conversation, Carla Moore, CEO of United Methodist Community House, discusses the organization's mission to strengthen the community across generations through various programs. She highlights the significant need for early childhood education and food security in Grand Rapids, as well as the importance of data in shaping their strategies. Carla also emphasizes the organization's efforts to build financial sustainability and future plans for expansion, including affordable housing and community engagement.Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

Support the pod and get so much extra content for $5/month at   / stiffsockspod Bonus eps also available on Apple Podcasts! https://www.apple.co/socks Zach Justice joins the boys for a wild one. From getting farted on by Dwight Howard to literally giving away $300k on a Netflix show. The guys dive into dating app horror stories, American Idol sob stories, breast milk nutrition and Zach admits to stealing toilet paper from Subway. Follow Zach Justice: Youtube - @Thezachjustice Tik Tok - @zacjustice IG - @zacjustice

Support the pod and get so much extra content for $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/stiffsockspod Bonus eps also available on Apple Podcasts! https://www.apple.co/socks