West Michigan Weekend (A Public Affairs Program from iHeartradio)

As students across West Michigan head back to school, drivers are once again sharing the road with school buses, crossing guards, and children walking or biking to class. On this episode, Phil Tower speaks with Brandon Hewitt, COO and attorney at Michigan Auto Law, about the rules every driver should know when approaching a stopped school bus. We discuss flashing red and yellow lights, divided-road requirements, penalties for illegally passing a bus, and Michigan’s expanded use of school-bus stop-arm cameras. Brandon also shares important safety reminders for drivers, parents, and children during morning pickup and afternoon drop-off.Learn more: Michigan Auto Law

On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower talks with Carmen Docter, Manager of Retail and Specialty Pharmacies at Trinity Health Grand Rapids, about a new partnership with Dispensary of Hope, a nonprofit helping qualifying uninsured and financially challenged patients access prescription medications at no cost.Carmen shares with us who qualifies, what types of medications are available, and how patients can access the program through Trinity Health Pharmacy – Roosevelt Park in Grand Rapids. The conversation also addresses the real impact of rising prescription costs and what options may be available for people who are skipping or stretching medications because they cannot afford them. Important links:Dispensary of Hope Trinity Health Pharmacy – Roosevelt Park Trinity Health Michigan Pharmacy Services  

On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower talks with internationally known author, speaker, and Bible educator Jeff Cavins about his newest project, The Great Adventure Catholic Bible for Young Beginners. Cavins discusses why introducing children to Scripture at an early age matters, how the new Bible makes the larger biblical story accessible to young readers, and the enduring lessons of resilience, forgiveness, courage, hope, and compassion found in its stories.Our conversation also explores Jeff Cavins’ work helping people understand the “big picture” of the Bible, as well as Ascension’s new Pillars of Faith K–8 curriculum.Important links:The Great Adventure Catholic Bible for Young BeginnersPillars of Faith Catholic CurriculumJeff Cavins — Official WebsiteAscension Press

For more than a century, Mel Trotter Ministries has served people experiencing hunger and homelessness in West Michigan, providing not only immediate assistance but pathways toward greater stability and transformed lives.On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Chris Palusky, President and CEO of Mel Trotter Ministries, for a conversation about the organization’s mission, the realities of homelessness in our community, and the work being done every day to help individuals move toward housing, employment, and renewed hope.Chris also previews Mel Trotter Ministries’ 2026 Season of Hope Gala, happening September 10, an annual evening celebrating stories of hope and transformation while raising support for the organization’s work.The conversation also explores ways West Michiganders can get involved through volunteering, giving, and supporting Mel Trotter’s mission throughout the year.Learn more:Mel Trotter MinistriesMel Trotter Season of Hope Tickets & Info.

Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer and one of the busiest travel periods of the year—but it can also be a particularly dangerous time on Michigan roads. As drivers prepare for the holiday weekend, law enforcement agencies across the state are participating in the annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, aimed at preventing impaired-driving crashes and saving lives. On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower talks with Alicia Sledge, Director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, about the realities of impaired driving in Michigan and why alcohol isn't the only concern. They discuss impairment involving marijuana and certain prescription medications, increased enforcement during the holiday period, encouraging trends in Michigan traffic fatalities, and the importance of planning for a safe ride before celebrations begin. Sledge also discusses Michigan's broader traffic-safety efforts, including the SAFER by 2030 initiative, which seeks to reduce roadway fatalities by 30 percent by 2030, and shares a simple message for everyone traveling Michigan roads this Labor Day weekend. The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign runs August 14 through September 7. Learn more: Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning

Electric vehicles and the infrastructure supporting them are changing quickly.On this episode of iHeartRadio West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes back EV expert Karl Bloss, host of the Zero E Michigan YouTube channel, for an update on the state of electric vehicles in 2026.Karl explains the rise of “Charging 2.0,” as major retailers and travel centers invest in EV charging, along with the impact of Tesla opening much of its Supercharger network to drivers of other EV brands.They also discuss whether range anxiety is becoming a thing of the past and how the growing charging network is making longer trips easier for EV owners.Phil and Karl also look at the increasingly affordable used EV market, what buyers should know about battery health, the growth of independent EV repair options, and some of the most persistent myths about charging, battery life, winter driving, and repair costs.Plus, Karl looks ahead at what consumers should be watching as the next generation of electric vehicles arrives.Follow Karl Bloss and learn more:West Michigan EV Facebook Group:Karl's YouTube-“Zero E Michigan” 

Why are some young adults choosing a life of faith and service in an age of seemingly limitless career options? On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, Phil Tower sits down with Father Nick Baker, Associate Director of Priestly Vocations for the Diocese of Grand Rapids, and Father Charlie Leidel, one of the Grand Rapids Diocese's newest priests, to explore their personal journeys, the calling to the priesthood, and the renewed interest many young people are showing in faith today. The conversation goes beyond religion to explore purpose, leadership, community, and the search for meaning in today's world. Whether you're a person of faith or simply curious about what motivates people to dedicate their lives to serving others, this thoughtful discussion offers an inside look at modern ministry and the values that continue to inspire a new generation. Online: Diocese of Grand RapidsPriestly Vocations

Michigan-based furniture retailer Gardner White is making history with its first-ever West Michigan location, and in this episode of West Michigan Weekend, CEO Rachel Stewart joins host Phil Tower to discuss what this milestone means for the company and the Grand Rapids community. Founded in Detroit in 1912, the fourth-generation family-owned business is bringing its customer-focused approach, expansive showroom, and personalized design services to West Michigan for the very first time. Rachel also shares how Gardner White is pairing business growth with community impact through its "Bring It Home for Kids" initiative, supporting early childhood literacy and kindergarten readiness across Michigan. It's a conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, giving back, and why investing in communities is just as important as investing in homes. Online: Gardner WhiteGardner Whites New Grand Rapids location

Data Centers Are Coming to Michigan—Is the State Ready? Artificial intelligence is fueling a boom in massive data centers, and Michigan has quickly become one of the nation's hottest destinations for these billion-dollar developments. But what do these projects mean for local communities, energy costs, jobs, taxes, and the environment?On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, investigative reporter Lucas Smolcic Larson of MLive joins us to explain why data centers are expanding across the state, the opportunities they present, and the important questions policymakers and residents are asking as Michigan prepares for an AI-driven future.During our conversation, Lucas discusses why Michigan has emerged as a prime location for data center investment, the debate over tax incentives and electricity demand, and how communities are weighing the economic benefits against concerns about infrastructure and environmental impact.Whether you're interested in technology, public policy, or Michigan's economic future, this conversation offers valuable insight into one of the state's fastest-growing—and most consequential—industries.Learn more about MLive Investigative Reporter Lucas Smolcic Larson and read his reporting HERE.Important Links:How many data center projects have been proposed in Michigan? The total grows Whitmer calls on data centers to sign pledge they won’t increase utility bills  When Big Tech moves in next door: Could Indiana data center town be Michigan’s future? 

In this updated conversation, Phil Tower welcomes back Whitney Waara, Chief Operating Officer for Traverse City Tourism, with the latest on the second annual Traverse City Food & Wine Festival, happening August 19–23.Whitney shares exciting new additions to this year's festival lineup, highlights signature events such as The Grand Tasting, and offers insider tips for planning the perfect late-summer getaway to one of Michigan's premier culinary destinations.From award-winning chefs and world-class wines to unique tasting experiences set against the stunning backdrop of Grand Traverse Bay, discover why this five-day celebration is quickly becoming one of the Midwest's must-attend food-and-wine festivals. For the complete schedule, tickets, and travel information, visit traversecityfoodandwine.com

On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes independent journalist, filmmaker, and one of YouTube's most compelling storytellers (he has 4.3 million subscribers!), Peter Santenello, whose millions of followers have joined him on journeys into overlooked communities across the United States.Peter discusses his new book, Your Fellow Americans: Dispatches from Across the Country We Call Home, and shares what years of authentic conversations—from remote Alaskan villages and Amish communities to small towns and big cities—have taught him about curiosity, human connection, and the importance of listening before judging.As America celebrates its 250th birthday, the conversation with Peter offers a refreshing reminder that some of our nation's most inspiring stories are found far beyond the headlines—and that we may have far more in common than we realize.Learn more:Peter Santenello's official website: PeterSantenello.comPeter's YouTube channel.Get Peter's new book: Your Fellow Americans: Dispatches from Across the Country We Call Home

Housing affects everyone—whether you're renting, buying your first home, raising a family, or hoping the next generation can afford to stay in West Michigan.On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower talks with Jen Radaz, Senior Manager at Housing Next, about the growing housing challenges facing communities across the region and the collaborative efforts underway to address them.During our conversation we discuss the inaugural West Michigan Housing Summit, bringing together housing leaders, developers, policymakers, and community stakeholders to explore practical solutions for affordability, availability, and long-term regional growth.Jen also helps to explain why housing is much more than a real estate issue—it's an economic, workforce, and quality-of-life issue that affects us all.Learn more:Housing NextWest Michigan Housing Summit

What really happened behind the scenes during Bernie Sanders' 2016 presidential campaign? Veteran political strategist Tad Devine, Sanders' chief strategist, joins West Michigan Weekend with host Phil Tower to discuss his new book, How the Democrats Screwed Bernie. Devine reflects on the forces that shaped one of the most surprising campaigns in modern political history, the role of money and party politics, declining public trust in American institutions, and what the lessons of 2016 still mean for democracy today.Whether you're a political junkie or simply interested in how our electoral system works, this insightful and engaging conversation offers valuable perspective, and it may just inspire you to become more politically active!Get Tad's Terrific New Book: How the Democrats Screwed Bernie.

In this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes Mike Busley, co-founder of Grand Traverse Pie Company.Grand Traverse Pie Company is celebrating 30 years of handcrafted pies, made-from-scratch comfort food, and strong Michigan roots, and that's why we caught up with Mike Busley to have him share the remarkable story of how he and his wife Denise built one of Michigan's most beloved brands—from a single Traverse City pie shop to a company serving customers across the country.Among the many topics we discuss, Mike talks with pride about the company's commitment to Michigan farmers, its philosophy of "The Power of Pie," giving back to local communities, and the special events planned for its 30th anniversary celebration.Grand Traverse Pie Company online

On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower talks with Kent County Clerk and Register of Deeds, Lisa Posthumus Lyons, about everything voters need to know before heading to the polls.From early voting and absentee ballots to voter ID requirements, election security, and important deadlines, Lisa offers practical, nonpartisan guidance to help Kent County—and all Michigan voters—cast their ballots with confidence.Whether you're a first-time voter or a longtime participant in the democratic process, this conversation will help you prepare for the upcoming elections.Election dates to know include:Tue Aug 4, 2026 - Michigan Congressional, State, and Gubernatorial Primary ElectionTue Nov 3, 2026 - Michigan Congressional, State, and Gubernatorial General ElectionFor more information, to verify your voter registration, find your polling location, or view your sample ballot, visit:Kent County VotesMichigan Voter Information CenterThis episode of West Michigan Weekend is available anytime on the iHeartRadio app and wherever you get your podcasts.

Can Christians disagree without becoming divided? Author Skot Welch joins Phil Tower to discuss his new book, Mending Sunday, exploring how churches can embrace diversity, strengthen unity, and build healthier communities through grace, understanding, and meaningful relationships.On this episode of iHeartRadio's West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes author Skot Welch to discuss his latest book, Mending Sunday: Embracing Differences in a Church Torn by Division.As churches and communities continue to navigate deep cultural and political divides, Welch explores why unity doesn't require uniformity—and how embracing our differences can strengthen both faith and relationships.In their conversation, they discuss practical steps toward reconciliation, what healthy diversity looks like in today's church, and why hope, humility, and meaningful conversations are more important than ever. Skot’s terrific new book, Mending Sunday, is available locally at your favorite bookstore. Get the book online here.

What does it take to turn a great idea into a successful business?On this episode of iHeartRadio's West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower talks with Paul Moore, Co-Director of Start Garden, about the complete reimagining of The 100—West Michigan's longtime entrepreneurial competition that has helped launch hundreds of businesses over the past 13 years.This year's competition features more than $500,000  in funding opportunities, expanded investment partners, and a new approach that welcomes businesses at every stage of growth.The 100 is evolving far beyond a traditional pitch competition, as Paul explains how the revamped program works, why entrepreneurs now submit a simple 100-second video, and how the new "Sprint" model is designed to connect founders with the right resources to grow.Applications for The 100 are open through July 12.Learn more and apply at StartGarden.com

Northern Michigan's rich agricultural heritage, award-winning wineries, acclaimed chefs, and stunning waterfront setting all come together for one unforgettable celebration.On this episode of iHeartRadio's West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Whitney Waara, Chief Operating Officer of Traverse City Tourism, to preview the second annual Traverse City Food & Wine Festival happening August 19–23.Whitney shares how the festival has grown in just its second year into a five-day culinary showcase featuring vineyard tours, chef-led dinners, cooking demonstrations, farm experiences, wine and whiskey tastings, sailing excursions, and conversations with celebrated authors.She also highlights the festival's signature event, The Grand Tasting, where visitors can sample more than 100 wines and craft beverages while enjoying spectacular views of West Grand Traverse Bay.Whether you're a passionate foodie, wine enthusiast, or simply looking for the perfect late-summer getaway, this conversation offers a delicious preview of one of the Midwest's fastest-growing culinary festivals.Learn more, view the complete schedule, and purchase tickets at Traverse City Food & Wine Festival.

In this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Tony Gerheiser, Executive Director of the West Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross. Tony joins us on this episode to talk about the West Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross and their Roll Up & Give campaign in partnership with Neighborhood Michigan Ford Dealers.Tony explains why blood donations often decline during the summer months, how donated blood helps accident victims, cancer patients, surgical patients, and others facing medical emergencies, and why community partnerships are essential to meeting this ongoing need. He also discusses the expansion of the Roll Up & Give campaign following a successful 2025 pilot program and shares what first-time donors can expect when giving blood.For more information, to find a donation location, or to schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org,  download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS.Roll Up & Give Campaign Details

On this episode of iHeartRadio’s West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Alyssa Stewart, Director of Philanthropic Partnerships for Rx Kids.Alyssa joins us on the program to discuss Rx Kids, a groundbreaking program that is helping families across Michigan build stronger financial foundations during pregnancy and early childhood.Rx Kids is the nation’s first community-wide prenatal and infant cash prescription program, providing direct financial support to expectant mothers and families with newborns. Alyssa shares with us how eligible mothers receive a one-time payment during pregnancy, followed by monthly payments after their child is born, helping families meet essential needs during some of life’s most critical months.We also cover how the program got started, who qualifies, how communities are selected, and the rapid expansion of Rx Kids throughout Michigan—including new communities in West Michigan and the addition of Kent County’s 49507 ZIP code.Alyssa also talks about the measurable impact Rx Kids is having on family financial stability, maternal and infant health, and local economies, and what participating families are saying about how the direct cash assistance they receive is helping them navigate the challenges of pregnancy and a child’s first year of life.Learn more about Rx Kids and its growing impact across Michigan at RxKids.orgRx Kids on Social Media.

On this episode of iHeartRadio’s West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Meena Ariagno, creator and host of Eavesdrop with Meena, a locally produced podcast with a global perspective that encourages thoughtful dialogue, curiosity, and respectful conversation across cultural, political, and spiritual divides.Meena shares the story behind her podcast, which began as a passion project during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since grown into a platform dedicated to promoting the common good and restoring civil discourse at a time when meaningful conversation can often feel in short supply.She discusses how her global experiences have shaped the show's mission and what it has been like building an independent podcast from West Michigan with an international reach.Phil and Meena also spoke about an upcoming live podcast recording at the Grand Rapids Art Museum featuring acclaimed artist Warren King. The event will include a screening of the documentary Warren King: King of Cardboard, followed by a live conversation exploring art, identity, creativity, and the power of storytelling. Learn more about Eavesdrop with Meena at MeenaGlobal.com and on the iHeartRadio app.

What does the future of higher education look like in Michigan—and why does it still matter? On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, Phil Tower sits down with Russ Kavalhuna, the 10th president of Western Michigan University, to discuss his unique journey from commercial airline captain and federal prosecutor to university president, and his vision for one of Michigan’s leading public universities.Kavalhuna shares what inspired his early passion for aviation, the experiences that led him into higher education leadership, and the priorities guiding his presidency since taking office in July 2025.The conversation also explores the growing national debate over the value of a college degree, how universities can better align with workforce needs, and the important role higher education plays in developing talent and strengthening Michigan’s economy.In addition, Kavalhuna discusses his work as co-chair of Michigan’s Higher Education Workgroup, efforts to expand college access and opportunity, and why he remains a strong advocate for the transformative impact of higher education.Learn more about Western Michigan University at wmich.edu. Additional resources:Western Michigan University College of AviationHenry Ford CollegeGrowing Michigan Together CouncilWest Michigan Weekend is a weekly public affairs program hosted by Phil Tower and heard across the iHeartRadio West Michigan radio stations and podcast platforms. 

On this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes artist and designer turned best-selling author, Dave Eggers, for a conversation about his new novel, Contrapposto.Known for bestselling and critically acclaimed works, including his groundbreaking debut,  A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, and What Is the What, Eggers joins the program to explore the inspiration behind Contrapposto, a sweeping story that follows the lifelong friendship of Cricket Dib and Olympia Argyros across six decades of art, ambition, creativity, and personal transformation.During our conversation, Eggers discusses the novel’s unique title—borrowed from the classical artistic technique that creates balance through asymmetry, and how his own background as a visual artist helped shape the story. As Eggers explained, "think of a statue of Michelangelo balancing on one foot."He also reflects on themes of friendship, aging, creativity, and the often-absurd nature of the art world.Later, in our conversation, Eggers shares his passion for educational opportunity and literacy through organizations he helped establish and support, including ScholarMatch, which helps first-generation college students from low-income backgrounds earn bachelor’s degrees, and 826michigan, which provides free writing and literacy programs for K–12 students across Southeast Michigan.Eggers also talks about his upcoming appearance with the National Writers Series in Traverse City, and what continues to inspire him after decades as one of America's most influential literary voices.Learn more about his terrific new novel, Contrapposto, from Penguin Random House, or pick up a copy from your favorite local bookstore.

On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes West Michigan author Natasha Warren to discuss her deeply personal memoir, Morphine and Malts: A Daughter's Path Through Her Father's Cancer, Caregiving, and Letting Go.Warren's book chronicles the 105 days between her father John's terminal cancer diagnosis and his passing, offering an honest and heartfelt look at the realities of caregiving, grief, family relationships, and finding moments of grace during life's most difficult seasons.She also shares how she navigated the sudden transition into the role of caregiver, the challenges of supporting a fiercely independent parent, and the lessons she learned about love, resilience, and letting go.Natasha reflects on the moments of laughter, family connection, and unexpected joy that helped sustain her family through an incredibly difficult journey.Whether you're currently caring for a loved one, have experienced a significant loss, or simply want to better understand the caregiving experience, this conversation offers valuable insights, encouragement, and hope.Learn MoreNatasha Warren's book: Morphine and MaltsCancer caregiver resources from American Cancer Society

On this episode of iHeartRadio’s West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Mike Guswiler, President of the West Michigan Sports Commission, for a conversation about the continued growth and regional impact of the West Michigan Sports Commission and the exciting expansion of the Meijer Sports Complex in Rockford. Mike shares news about the official opening of four new championship softball fields at the Meijer Sports Complex, part of a major expansion project designed to support the growing demand for youth and amateur sports tourism in West Michigan.Our conversation highlights how the Meijer Sports Complex has become one of the premier destinations for baseball, softball, and pickleball events in the Midwest. Phil and Mike also explore the economic impact of sports tourism on the region, including the millions of dollars generated annually through tournaments and visitors traveling to West Michigan for national and regional events. Mike also previews several major upcoming events hosted at the complex, including national softball championships and expanding pickleball tournaments, and the return of The Hartford Nationals, July 10-16, the largest U.S. youth and adult sport competition for people with disabilities.     Learn more about the West Michigan Sports Commission and the Meijer Sports Complex at West Michigan Sports Commission.

On this episode of iHeartRadio’s West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower brings you an on-location conversation with Michael and Peter Laing, co-founders and co-owners of bigLITTLE Wines, based in Leelanau County, Michigan.The Laing brothers share their personal story behind their family’s journey into winemaking, which began in 2002 when their parents relocated to the Suttons Bay area and planted two vineyards. Michael and Peter discuss growing up around the vineyards, balancing outside jobs in the early years, and eventually returning to Northern Michigan to help build what would become the bigLITTLE Wines brand.Our conversation explores the growth of Michigan’s wine industry, the unique characteristics of the Leelanau Peninsula wine region, and the passion and craftsmanship required to operate successful vineyards and wineries in a competitive and evolving market. The brothers also talk about managing both MAWBY and bigLITTLE Wines, while continuing to expand their family’s legacy in Michigan winemaking.The episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Michigan’s most respected wine-producing regions and the people helping shape its future through innovation, hospitality, and a deep connection to the land.Learn more at bigLITTLE Wines.  

In this episode of iHeartRadio’s West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes attorney and community advocate Tom Sinas, partner at the Sinas Dramis Law Firm.Tom shares details about the annual Lids for Kids bike safety event happening Saturday, May 30, at Garfield Park in Grand Rapids. Families attending the free event can receive professionally fitted bike helmets for children, along with bike safety education, games, giveaways, and the chance to win free bicycles. Our conversation also highlights the importance of helmet use and the real impact the program has made across Michigan, providing more than 14,000 helmets to children while promoting injury prevention and community wellness. Special guests at the event include local first responders, including the Brain Injury Association of Michigan, Fox 17, the Grand Rapids Police Department, the Grand Rapids Fire Department, Michigan State Police bicycle troopers, the Cosplay Crusaders, and several others.Learn more about the event at Lids for Kids Michigan.

On this episode of iHeartRadio’s West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Chip and Lisa St. Clair, founders of the St. Clair Butterfly Foundation, for a powerful conversation about trauma, resilience, and transforming lives through neuroscience-informed care. Our conversation explores the deeply personal story that inspired the foundation’s mission, including Chip St. Clair’s extraordinary childhood experience surviving while on the run with his father, a convicted serial child killer. From that trauma emerged a national nonprofit dedicated to helping young people, educators, and communities better understand the effects of trauma and how healing-centered environments can change outcomes. Phil talks with Chip and Lisa about how the St. Clair Butterfly Foundation works with schools, juvenile justice systems, behavioral health organizations, and community partners across Michigan and the nation to create more stable, supportive, and effective environments for youth and adults alike. The conversation also highlights the foundation’s growing national impact, including partnerships that have supported more than 40,000 individuals through trauma-informed training, mentorship, and implementation strategies designed to create lasting behavioral and emotional change. Learn more about the St. Clair Butterfly Foundation and its mission at SCBF.org

In this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower sits down with Rich MacKeigan, one of the key figures helping shape the future of entertainment, sports, and live events in downtown Grand Rapids. As General Manager overseeing Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place, DeVos Performance Hall, the brand-new Acrisure Amphitheater, and the future Amway Stadium, MacKeigan offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most transformational moments in West Michigan’s entertainment landscape. The conversation happens just days after the official opening of the Acrisure Amphitheater on May 15—a milestone, years in the making. Rich reflects on what the opening means personally and professionally, why the venue is already drawing national attention for its design and riverfront setting, and how the project fits into the evolving identity of downtown Grand Rapids. Phil and Rich also explore the changing realities of the live entertainment business, including rising ticket prices, shifting concert tour economics, and what venues must do to keep audiences engaged in an increasingly competitive market. The discussion also looks ahead to the arrival of professional soccer in Grand Rapids with the construction of Amway Stadium and the launch of AC Grand Rapids in 2027. Plus, Rich shares what artists and promoters from around the world are saying about Grand Rapids, why live events still create powerful emotional connections for audiences, and what continues to excite him after nearly three decades in the industry. As a bonus, Rich shares one of his all-time favorite concert memories and common misconceptions about managing major entertainment venues. Learn more about the new Acrisure AmphitheaterTopics discussed: Live music venues, the economic impact of music and entertainment, downtown Grand Rapids Development, the impact of art and culture on economic development.  

This week on iHeartRadio’s West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower talks with Charles Burke, President & CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, about the powerful role art, culture, and nature can play in helping communities reconnect and heal during challenging times.Burke reflects on his first three years leading Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, recently recognized for the third consecutive year as the Best Sculpture Park in the United States by USA Today readers. Our conversation also explores Burke’s recent column, “What the World Needs Now: How Art, Culture, and Nature Can Help Heal Communities in Difficult Times,” and examines why shared experiences in cultural spaces matter more than ever in an increasingly divided and technology-driven world.Phil and Charles also discuss the return of world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly and the spectacular new Chihuly at Meijer Gardens exhibition, now open, and featuring immersive indoor and outdoor installations throughout the gardens.Plus, we also share a preview of the popular Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series, the unique concert experience that has become one of West Michigan’s signature summer traditions.Learn more at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

West Michigan is coming together once again to honor those who’ve served—and to strengthen the bonds that connect our community.In this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower sits down with Joe DiBenedetto, co-chair of Armed Forces Thanksgiving, and Adam Lancto, Principal at Grandville High School and board member, to explore the mission and impact of this powerful annual event.Returning May 15 at the JW Marriott in downtown Grand Rapids, Armed Forces Thanksgiving brings together veterans, students, and community leaders for a meaningful shared experience centered on service, sacrifice, and connection.What started in 2014 as a luncheon to honor active members of the military as well as military veterans has grown into something much bigger—an investment in the social fabric of West Michigan.The event co-chair, Joe Dibenedetto, shares how proceeds support the West Michigan Veterans Coalition and why supporting veterans strengthens not just individuals, but the region’s workforce and community as a whole. Adam offers insight into how student participation transforms this event into a “live civics lesson,” creating unforgettable moments of intergenerational connection.Joe also discusses the inspiration for the new Hometown Heroes Banners initiative and gives us a preview of keynote speaker Marcus Luttrell, whose story of resilience continues to inspire audiences nationwide. This year’s event is sold out.Learn more: Armed Forces Thanksgiving 

In this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Jenny Waugh, Vice President of Economic Growth at the Grand Rapids Chamber, to preview the inaugural Small Biz Week West Michigan. Kicking off Monday, May 4, at GLC Live in downtown Grand Rapids, this first-of-its-kind regional initiative is designed to support, connect, and inspire small businesses.Jenny shares how the Chamber and its partners are building momentum around entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth across the region.The week begins with a high-energy kickoff event featuring keynote speaker Gina Thorsen, the first female CEO of Jacquart Fabric Products—home of the iconic Stormy Kromer brand. From networking opportunities and panel discussions to real-world insights from business leaders, this conversation highlights why investing in small businesses means investing in the future of West Michigan.Key Topics Covered:The vision behind the first-ever Small Biz Week West MichiganWhy small businesses (500 employees or fewer) matter to the regional economyWhat to expect from the kickoff event and week-long programmingLeadership lessons from Gina Thorsen and the Stormy Kromer brandHow the GR Chamber supports growth, innovation, and connectivity across industriesOnline:Grand Rapids Chamber of CommerceSmall Biz Week West Michigan

Phil Tower talk with Seth Velderman and Daniel Irwin.

Host Chuck La Tour welcomes Cyndi Bouma of The American Heart Assn for CPR training

Cyndi Bouma with the American Heart Association discussing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training.

Mark Wagenschutz with Michigan HEAT discussing help with eliminating auto theft.

Rebecca Rynbrany with the City of Wyoming discusses library and park upgrades, as well as, their summer concert series.

Andy McIntyre with the John Ball Zoo discusses their summer education programs.

Robin Lott the Executive Director of the Michigan Education Trust (MET) discussing their Fostering Futures Scholarships (FFS).

Christina Fecher with the Meijer Simple Give program on helping the needy get fed.

Tom Sinas with Lids for Kids on helping people with brain injuries, and help prevent them.

Ace and Bing with the Grand Rapids Asian Festival!

The American Heart Association's Cindy Bouma!

The Ottawa County Clerks Office!

Nicole Rodamer of Eles Place!

Dennis Van Kampen with Mel Trotter and Sheila Bauer with United Against Abuse discusses getting women out of a domestic violence situation and helping them get back on their feet.

Cheri Honerd with Hand2Hand discussing helping feed children in poverty in West Michigan.

Syd Baxter YMCA Charity Sale

Katlyn Mettler with Blanford Nature Center discusses animal survival and rehabilitation.

Jen Wittlinger and Becky Barnes discussing the JDRF Gala 2017.