Podcasts about kalamazoo

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Send us a textIn this episode of Friday Night Beers, Tom & Vince drink Tropical Hopslam. This beer comes from Bell's Brewery in Kalamazoo, MI. They drink it and somehow compare it to things like things we currently hate (“Hopslams”), college football game lengths, annoying ads, delayed TV, acting redemptions, Herbstreit's dog, tropical paradises and more. At the end, they rate this beer on a unique 1-5 scale. VINCE: 2.5 / 5 VincesTOM: 3.25 / 5 TomsInstagram: @friday.night.beersTwitter: @fnb_pod Threads: https://www.threads.net/@friday.night.beersEmail: friday.night.beerspodcast@gmail.com Theme music by Billy Hansa. Subscribe, rate and review the podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you find your podcasts!

In this episode, we speak with Patrick Placzkowski, Chief Executive Officer, Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids, and Daryl Reece, Community leader, founder of the Piecing Together Unity Foundation, and also a board member with the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids.Daryl shared his story with us regarding the powerful impact that was made on him as a young man while attending programming at the Boys and Girls Clubs in both Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor.The mission of the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids is to enable all young people to reach their full potential as responsible citizens through education, recreation, and positive community experiences in partnership with the Grand Rapids Police Department.The Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids offers youth a safe, caring environment and equips them with practical tools to help them prepare for a solid future.They offer very affordable memberships for only $5 per year!ONLINE-Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Cataanda James, Chief Beauty Officer of CJ The Beauty Group, talks about building a career that surpasses her wildest dreams.  Cataanda James is a textured-hair expert, educator, and beauty industry strategist whose career embodies resilience, authenticity, and the courage to follow one's passion.  Raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, she grew up inspired by her mother's love of fashion and flawless grooming.  By junior high, Cataanda was already recognized as the "cat-eye queen," sharing makeup techniques with classmates, and by her college years, she had turned her dorm room into a thriving salon.  What others dismissed as a pastime became her undeniable calling. Her journey wasn't without resistance. While her mother supported her talent wholeheartedly, her father insisted that beauty was not a "real career."  Determined to prove otherwise, Cataanda pursued cosmetology, but soon discovered that many schools neglected textured hair altogether.  The turning point came when she enrolled at Dudley Cosmetology University in North Carolina, where she was immersed in technical excellence and, equally important, a business-first philosophy.  There she learned to approach beauty not only as an art, but as a profession requiring entrepreneurship, customer service, and polish. From there, she built a diverse foundation, working in barbershops, marketing herself with Polaroid photos long before Instagram existed, and mastering speed and precision at Supercuts.  A bold move to Baltimore in 2002 brought her closer to New York and opened new doors.  At MAC Cosmetics, she refined her artistry, attracted a broader client base, and stepped into freelance opportunities that connected her to the wider beauty industry. In 2003, Cataanda began a career-defining relationship with L'Oréal.  What started with consumer events grew into a nearly decade-long role at the New York Technical Center, where she became the company's Texture Expert.  There, she collaborated with chemists and product developers, testing innovations for brands such as L'Oréal Paris, Garnier, Carol's Daughter, and Dark & Lovely, and influencing product launches worldwide.  Following the pandemic's impact on the industry, Cataanda joined The Mane Choice as a Brand Educator, focusing exclusively on curly and textured hair.  While that chapter was valuable, her entrepreneurial spirit ultimately led her to create CJ The Beauty Group, a consultancy dedicated to helping beauty brands innovate with integrity, test products rigorously, and design inclusive strategies that authentically serve textured-hair consumers. Through every chapter, her philosophy has remained the same: step boldly into opportunity, nurture authentic relationships, and trust that what is meant for you will not pass you by.  From Kalamazoo roots to global stages, Cataanda James is proof that when passion is paired with persistence, the sky is not the limit, it's only the beginning.   Key Takeaways from Cataanda's Journey Passion Always Leaves Clues - What you loved as a child often holds the seeds of your purpose. Pay attention to those early sparks. Don't Let Doubt Define You - Even when others can't see your vision, trust yourself enough to pursue it with bold confidence. Education Is More Than Skill - True success requires not just talent but also professionalism, business acumen, and the courage to treat your passion like a career. Say Yes to Opportunity - Sometimes the next step isn't clear. Leap anyway—the door may lead to more than you ever imagined. Relationships Are Currency - Genuine connections open doors that strategy alone cannot. Stay in touch, stay authentic, and stay open. Quotes by Cataanda "What's meant for you will never pass you by; your only job is to walk boldly into the opportunities placed in front of you." "You don't need to have the entire plan; sometimes you just have to move, trust God, and figure it out along the way." "Even when you're scared, do it anyway, fear doesn't mean stop, it means step forward with faith."   Connect With Cataanda   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cataandaj/   Website: https://cataandaj.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cataandaj   X: https://x.com/cataandaj

Kristen Chesak from the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo with the rundown of events on the calendar this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Claire Fisher, Director of Program Services for the Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association joined us with details on the October 18th walk in Kalamazoo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI. This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference. In this video Chris Holman welcomes Carrie Rosingana, CEO at Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, serving Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties They discuss the services, and challenges facing his Michigan Works! chapter, along with what he's experiencing with the Michigan Works! Annual Conference. » 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/ Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan's most pressing talent and employment challenges. The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association's annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners. On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies, (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration. The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan's workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting. Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions. By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI. This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference. In this video Chris Holman welcomes Jessica Topp, CEO, Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium. They discuss the services, and challenges facing his Michigan Works! chapter, along with what he's experiencing with the Michigan Works! Annual Conference. » 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/ Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan's most pressing talent and employment challenges. The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association's annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners. On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies, (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration. The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan's workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting. Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions. By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI. This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference. In this video Chris Holman welcomes Ryan Hundt, CEO, Michigan Works! Association, Lansing, but serving statewide in Michigan. They discuss the services, and challenges facing his Michigan Works! chapter, along with what he's experiencing with the Michigan Works! Annual Conference. » 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/ Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan's most pressing talent and employment challenges. The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association's annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners. On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies, (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration. The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan's workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting. Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions. By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI. This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference. In this video Chris Holman welcomes Tadd Wamester, Director of Partnership Development at EnGen. » 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/ Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan's most pressing talent and employment challenges. The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association's annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners. On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies, (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration. The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan's workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting. Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions. By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Guitarist Goh Kurosawa spent time with us talking about his career, performing at Sounds of the Zoo as well as at Kalamazoo College.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI. This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference. In this video Chris Holman welcomes Jennifer Llewellyn, Director of Oakland County Michigan Works! They discuss the services, and challenges facing her Michigan Works! chapter, along with what she's experiencing with the Michigan Works! Annual Conference. » 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/ Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan's most pressing talent and employment challenges. The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association's annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners. On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies, (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration. The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan's workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting. Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions. By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI. This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference. In this video Chris Holman welcomes Todd Gustafson, President & Chief Executive Officer, Kinexus, Benton Harbor, MI. They discuss the services, and challenges facing his Michigan Works! chapter, along with what he's experiencing with the Michigan Works! Annual Conference. » 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/ Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan's most pressing talent and employment challenges. The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association's annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners. On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies, (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration. The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan's workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting. Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions. By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI. This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference. In this video Chris Holman welcomes Chris Andresen, Partner, Dutko Grayling, based out of Washington, D.C.. They discuss the lobbying services, and challenges, along with what he's experiencing with the Michigan Works! Annual Conference. » 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/ Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan's most pressing talent and employment challenges. The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association's annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners. On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies, (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration. The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan's workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting. Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions. By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Monday, September 8th, MBN was on the road to the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo, MI. This was day 2 of 2025's Michigan Works! Association's Annual Conference. In this video Chris Holman welcomes Shamar Herron, Director of Michigan Works! Southeast. They discuss the services, and challenges facing his Michigan Works! chapter, along with what he's experiencing with the Michigan Works! Annual Conference. » 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/ Michigan Works! Association Wraps Up 2025 Annual Conference in Kalamazoo The Michigan Works! Association successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference September 7–9 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo. The three-day event brought together workforce development professionals, employers, educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore solutions for Michigan's most pressing talent and employment challenges. The conference opened Sunday with workshops, the Association's annual meeting, and a networking reception at the Gilmore Car Museum, providing an engaging start for attendees to connect with peers and partners. On Monday, the agenda featured keynote presentations from Sharon Gai and Dr. Christopher Laney, who offered insights into global workforce trends, leadership, and the future of employment. Attendees engaged in a variety of workshops covering workforce readiness, training strategies, and employer engagement. The Exhibit Hall was a focal point for building connections between businesses, service providers, and Michigan Works! agencies, (and also where MBN recorded its interviews from). While networking opportunities such as the Dessert Break & Headshot Lounge further fostered collaboration. The conference concluded Tuesday with workshops and a dynamic closing keynote from Dr. Sherene McHenry, emphasizing leadership, communication, and strategies to strengthen Michigan's workforce ecosystem. An invitation-only Executive Breakfast also gave business and policy leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas in a more focused setting. Across the three days, the conference highlighted the critical role of employment in economic development. Employers learned about the tangible costs of workforce gaps, explored innovative approaches to upskilling, and built partnerships to address talent shortages. The emphasis on collaboration positioned Michigan Works! as a vital connector between business needs and workforce solutions. By drawing together leaders from across the state, the 2025 Annual Conference underscored Michigan's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient economy through workforce innovation, business engagement, and talent development.

Rev. William Stein from God's Kitchen of Michigan talks with us about the fundraiser to provide free Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Michael Brown, CEO of Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries, talks about the upcoming fundraiser for the organization.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Sept. 29, 2025 ~ Host Dave Lorenz explores fall fun in the Mitten, including visiting Sault Ste. Marie to see the historic Tower of History and watch freighters navigate the Soo Locks. Plus, he looks at Oscoda for a Lake Huron getaway at MaTiki Resort, Kalamazoo's cultural attractions like the Gilmore Car Museum and the Air Zoo, and Escanaba for fishing, hiking, ORV trails, and to experience the UP State Fair . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to Season 14 Episode 36 of the ParentingAces Podcast! In this week's episode, Lisa chats with WTA tour coach and former USTA National Coach, Michael Joyce, and high-performance junior coach, Todd Widom about what true high-performance coaching looks like and what it takes to make it to the top levels of our sport.Michael was a top junior player, winning Kalamazoo in the Boys 18s, who went on to a successful professional tennis career before turning his sites to coaching. Since entering the coaching arena at age 22, he has worked with Maria Sharapova, Jessica Pegula, and Ashlyn Krueger, among others. He has also worked with numerous junior players who had their sites on becoming pro players.Todd Widom runs a successful tennis program in Florida with a focus on preparing his players for college tennis and beyond. Todd also had an amazing junior and college tennis career before embarking on the pro tour. He brings those experiences to his work as a coach today.Both of these men grew up with strict junior coaches - Robert Lansdorp and Pierre Arnold - who taught them the value of hard work, commitment, and patience. Tennis development is a long process where the focus needs to be on growth over results and rankings.To contact Michael, you can email him at Michaeltjoyce73@gmail.com or call/text him at 407-421-4341.To contact Todd, you can email him at todd@twtennis.com. You can also follow him on Instagram at https://instagram.com/toddwidom_tennis.As always, I am available for one-to-one consults to work with you as you find your way through the college recruiting process. You can purchase and book online through our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://parentingaces.com/shop/category/consult-with-lisa-stone/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.If you're so inclined, please share this – and all our episodes! – with your fellow tennis players, parents, and coaches. You can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or via your favorite podcast app. Please be sure to check out our logo'd merch as well as our a la carte personal consultations in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠online shop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.CREDITSIntro & Outro Music: Morgan Stone aka STØNEAudio & Video Editing: Lisa Stone

Driving Vision Podcast: From Setbacks to Speed—Rally Driver Rhianon Gelsomino on Resilience, Risk & Rising to the TopThis week, we go backstage at Zeigler Honda in Kalamazoo with VP of Talent Development Mike Van Ryn and special guest Rhianon Gelsomino—world-class Subaru Rally co-driver and partner to motorsport legend Travis Pastrana.Rhi's story is nothing short of extraordinary: from growing up in a motorsport family, to overcoming devastating accidents that left her learning to walk again, to carving out her place as one of the best in a male-dominated industry.

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Rev. John Bothof - Scripture: Matthew 13:44 Text: Matthew 13:44

Rev. John Bothof - Scripture: Psalm 130 Text: Psalm 130

Pregame show, actual game broadcast, halftime show, and post game show. Lakeshore gets their first win of the year and are now 1-3 on the season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pregame show, actual game broadcast, halftime show, and post game show. Lakeshore gets their first win of the year and are now 1-3 on the season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More discussion about the recent mural festival in Kalamazoo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our first Life Question comes from David in Kalamazoo, Michigan. David recently discovered he sees his life through a lens of personal failure and wants to dissolve that filter so he can see his True Self.  Next, Kerri is a single woman who believes she has a problem with love. Despite meditating, visualizing, and journaling about the man she wants, every time she meets someone, it doesn't work out and she's disappointed. How can she move past this? Finally, Michael leads a guided meditation on expanding your inner awareness. ✍️ Love Take Back Your Mind? This podcast grows through your support. If you've been inspired by an episode, we'd love to hear from you! Consider leaving a 5-star review or drop a comment. It helps others join this journey of growth and connection.

What does it mean to be truly blessed in the kingdom of God? In this episode, Camden Bucey welcomes back pastor and author Jonathan Cruse, pastor of Community Presbyterian Church (Orthodox Presbyterian Church) in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to discuss his latest book, Paradox People: Learning to Live the Beatitudes (P&R Publishing). Together they explore how Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:3–12 turns worldly expectations upside down—and how the Beatitudes offer not a checklist for salvation, but a portrait of Christ and those united to him by faith. Drawing from pastoral experience and theological insight, Cruse explains how the Beatitudes call Christians to a counterintuitive life: one of meekness, mourning, mercy, and spiritual hunger. Yet far from being burdensome, this vision of kingdom living flows from the grace already secured in Christ. The conversation also touches on inaugurated eschatology, Christian distinctiveness in the culture, and how the Beatitudes equip believers to live faithfully as pilgrims between two ages. Listeners will be encouraged to see the Beatitudes not just as commands, but as Christ-centered comfort—anchoring our present obedience in a certain future hope.

Contestant: Andrew Conkling, calling from Kalamazoo, Michigan

Narratives > facts. Todd Thompson dissects the reaction to Charlie Kirk's killing, the UK's massive Unite the Kingdom march, and a new frontier: identity-based “self-defense” militia groups moving from slogans to weapons. When speech is spun as violence, dialogue, then people, die. -- Broadcast on WBCQ 7490 kHz (Sept 15, 2025, 10 p.m. ET), Todd Thompson takes on a week where storylines outran facts. He starts with the media spin surrounding the UK's Unite the Kingdom marches and the online chaos after Charlie Kirk's killing—noting how even basic details now fracture along partisan lines. From there, the episode tackles the asinine “words are violence” doctrine and why it normalizes deadly confrontation. Todd examines public materials and reporting around Armed Queers of Salt Lake City—a self-described socialist, anti-capitalist collective that promotes “queer resistance.” Posters featuring rifles, militant rhetoric, and campus events have circulated widely; as of broadcast, there was no confirmed official link to the Utah shooter, and Todd makes the larger point: once identity politics moves from slogans to weapons, taboos disintegrate and copycats follow. Closer to home, he touches on a ridiculous incident in Kalamazoo where an Office Depot "manager" refused to print a Charlie Kirk vigil poster and was promptly fired; an emblem of the cancel-culture boomerang finally, and predictably, striking in the opposite direction. The through-line is trust: collapsing institutions, informational anarchy with incompatible “truths,” and a culture that can't even agree on what happened five minutes ago. Blunt and unfiltered, the broadcast argues that dialogue only works if both sides still want a country to share. When moral certitude replaces inquiry, and institutions reward loyalty over facts, tribes do what tribes have always done. Subscribe, rate, review, and share! 

Deciding between living in Grand Rapids or Kalamazoo? These two West Michigan cities are just 50 minutes apart, but they each offer a unique lifestyle, opportunities, and community feel. Whether you're considering a move for work, school, or quality of life, this guide will help you compare Grand Rapids vs Kalamazoo and see which city might be the best fit.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

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Pastor John Bothof - Scripture: Psalm 42-43 Text: Psalm 42-43

Rev. John Bothof - Scripture: Matthew 13:33 Text: Matthew 13:33

Full game broadcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Full game broadcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April Gordon has a cool title: Success Coach. The concept is to help employees with everyday challenges - which can have an impact on their job performance. Doing so, April says, improves retention and work performance.The service is part of the national Employer Resource Network (ERN) and is administered through the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research in Kalamazoo and Michigan Works!April, along with Director Kelli Adams, tell Community Matters how the program works, a bit about its successes and whether there is capacity for more businesses to sign on.Episode ResourcesERN Southwest Michigan Success Coach W.E. Upjohn Insitute for Employment ResearchABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERSFormer WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays at 8:00 AM on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at battlecreekpodcast.com.Community Matters is sponsored by Lakeview Ford Lincoln and produced by Livemic Communications.

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

EP12 -In this captivating episode of Let's Talk: Passion & Purpose, host Nicole Thomas welcomes the award-winning author, educator, and speaker Shonda Buchanan. A Kalamazoo, Michigan native, Shonda shares her journey as a writer, her passion for storytelling, and her work as an advocate for cultural history and mixed-race identity. Dive into her inspiring career and gain insights into her powerful works, including her memoir Black Indian and her forthcoming poetry collection, The Lost Songs of Nina Simone.

It began as an ordinary night in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Families were out, friends gathered, strangers hailed rides to get across town. But beneath the surface of that routine evening, something unthinkable was unfolding. A man who seemed to have everything together, a job, a family, no history of violence, suddenly broke from the life he knew. Over the course of just a few hours, a city was gripped by a series of random, senseless attacks that defied explanation. Between rides for a car service, he struck again and again, leaving investigators and residents searching for answers. On episode 366 of The First Degree, Jac and Lex dive in, exploring the answers of impossible questions. Like, what could drive someone with no warning signs to unleash chaos on total strangers? And how do you stop a threat that blends so seamlessly into the everyday? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steve Smith and Dave Anderson sit down to tackle issues shaping today's tennis, from the growing trend of withdrawals at tournaments like Kalamazoo to the impact of DNFs in college play. They share candid stories—from Connor Smith's days at Ohio State to the traditions of junior tennis—to underline why competing fully matters more than ever. The conversation highlights how playing matches, regardless of the outcome, builds resilience and experience that no shortcut can replace.The discussion then shifts to creative scoring, situational drills, and charting as essential tools for player development. From handicapped scoring systems that level competition to drills that demand awareness under pressure, the coaches offer dozens of ideas to make practices purposeful and fun. They also touch on broader topics like adult beginners, the need for a “master plan” in coaching education, and how tennis can compete with sports like pickleball by emphasizing fundamentals. Packed with humor, history, and practical takeaways, episode 263 is a roadmap for players, parents, and coaches striving to improve.

Welcome to Season 14 Episode 32 of the ParentingAces Podcast! In this week's episode, Coach Jack Newman of the Austin Tennis Academy is back to dig deeper into his recent article (click here to read) on taking one of his alternate-listed junior players to this year's Level 1 in Kalamazoo.Duey Evans shared Jack's article in our Facebook Group and I was very interested to read all the comments. They definitely covered a wide range of opinions, so I wanted to give Jack a platform to talk about the WHY behind his actions. My hope is that this episode will open the minds of coaches, players, and parents to alternative ways of developing players to their full potential. As we all know, there are so many paths through Junior Tennis, and I believe it's helpful to know your options!Jack and I also chat about the upcoming Little Mo Nationals which will once again be hosted by Austin Tennis Academy. To learn more about one of my favorite junior tournament series, visit the Little Mo website at https://mcbtennis.org/.For those interested in contacting Jack and/or Austin Tennis Academy, visit their website at https://austintennisacademy.com/. You can reach Jack via email at Jack.Newman@austintennisacademy.com.As always, I am available for one-to-one consults to work with you as you find your way through the college recruiting process. You can purchase and book online through our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://parentingaces.com/shop/category/consult-with-lisa-stone/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.If you're so inclined, please share this – and all our episodes! – with your fellow tennis players, parents, and coaches. You can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or via your favorite podcast app. Please be sure to check out our logo'd merch as well as our a la carte personal consultations in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠online shop⁠⁠⁠⁠.CREDITSIntro & Outro Music: Morgan Stone aka STØNEAudio & Video Editing: Lisa Stone

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Maria Sorrentino started as a tech while studying social work and went on to build Pest Pros in Kalamazoo—plus Hive Nine and the “Lead People Manage Stuff” workshops. The Blue-Collar Twins dig into how she hires, pays, and develops people, why peer groups changed her trajectory, and the faith-driven mission that keeps her scaling without losing the heart of the business. It's a field-tested blueprint for owners who believe culture and accountability win long term. You'll hear: The “part-time is a lie” origin story and why pest control is a marketable, problem-solving trade.How she worked every role—tech to termite inspector to operator—and why being a people-first leader beats being a “bug nerd.”Comp & culture: the “altruism base” (paid non-billable hours), commission hygiene, and building a team that actually likes accountability.The Top-100 epiphany that expanded her vision—and how a 100-mile service radius actually works.Peer pressure, the good kind: inside “The Eagle's Nest” where owners open P&Ls and leave with bruises (and breakthroughs).Why Hive Nine & “Lead People Manage Stuff” were built for leadership benches—not just owners. Show links: From Gym Teachers to Service Leaders: The Julio Twins' Story | Last Bite Mosquito, Viking Pest https://youtu.be/DAYxtzhswxs From PE Teachers to Pest Control Owners: The Julio Twins Share Their POTOMAC Experience https://youtu.be/HAx9noqsqTo https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore www.potomaccompany.com https://bluecollartwins.com Produced by: www.verbell.ltd Timestamps 00:00 – Cold open: “Pest control is a real marketable skill… it's problem-solving.” 00:34 – Intros + how Maria connected with the Twins (Pest Cemetery days). 02:00 – Getting in: social work student → office → certified → field (and why “part-time” is a myth). 03:16 – Working every role: tech, termite inspections, then operator. 03:56 – “People person” vs. “bug nerds” at home—owning her lane. 04:31 – Starting Pest Pros (2018) with a home-inspector partner. 19:29 – The “altruism base”: paid non-billable hours that keep teams balanced. 20:22 – Paul Bello: from officiating her daughter's wedding to training her techs. 22:08 – Vision unlock: seeing Top-100 peers and realizing what's possible. 23:16 – Service map: running a 100-mile radius out of Kalamazoo. 25:46 – Boundaries, family, and why the business became a shared “fun thing.” 26:21 – Coaching bias: why Maria pushes revenue (and learned to respect margin). 31:24 – Hive Nine Consulting: events that develop teams, not just owners. 31:52 – “Lead People Manage Stuff”: the leadership workshop series. 32:45 – Community: why pest control attracts the “best-hearted” people. 33:04 – Her personal mission—and how faith guides the next bet. 42:49 – Inside “The Eagle's Nest”: open books, hard feedback, real accountability. 52:05 – Superpower: being a connector—and a final invite to collaborate. 53:09 – Outro & CTA to Potomac and more resources.