The Keys To The Community

PODCAST · business

The Keys To The Community

The Keys to the Community is your go-to podcast for real estate and community in West Michigan, hosted by Phil Nykamp. Each episode features local business owners, leaders, and industry pros sharing market insights and neighborhood stories. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply love where you live, you’ll get practical real estate tips and inspiring conversations that celebrate the people and places that make our community thrive.

  1. 10

    Michigan Wine, Organic Vineyards & Local Impact: Sommelier Sarah Carlson on West Michigan’s Wine Scene

    🚀 In this episode of Keys to the Community, Phil sits down with Sarah Carlson, a passionate sommelier, to explore the world of Michigan wine. From her journey back from the Pacific Northwest to the unique climate that makes Michigan wines world-class, Sarah shares insights into organic farming, vineyard life, tourism impact, and how wineries help strengthen local communities.🎧 Hosted by: Phil Nykamp👤 Guest:🏡 Sarah Carlson– Sommelier & Wine ExpertSarah Carlson is a Michigan sommelier who began her wine career in Traverse City in 2004 and spent a decade in the Pacific Northwest wine industry before returning to Michigan in 2020. She is currently the Tasting Room Manager at Modales Wines, an organic winery in Fennville.One thing becomes clear: in West Michigan wine isn’t just made—it’s grown, shared, and rooted in community.What You’ll Learn:Why Lake Michigan creates ideal conditions for growing award-winning wine grapes How Sarah Carlson’s sommelier journey across the Pacific Northwest shaped her approach in Michigan What “organic farming” actually looks like inside a working vineyard like Modales How wineries drive tourism, support local farms, and strengthen West Michigan’s economy The surprising diversity of Michigan wine—from crisp whites to bold reds and ice wine What a real tasting room experience looks like today (and how it’s changed in the last decade) Why supporting local wineries has a direct impact on small businesses and community growth💼 Connect with Sarah Carlson:🌐 Website → https://modaleswines.com/🎙 Follow Phil Nykamp:🌎 Website → https://phil-nykamp.com/📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PhilNykampRealtor/?locale=vi_VN📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/philnykamprealtor/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/philnykamp322/🤝 This Episode Is Proudly Sponsored By:Lighthouse Title: Navigating your title and closing needs in Holland since 2001. Contact: 616-393-9240 Independent Bank – Joshua DeVries, Mortgage Lender: Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or exploring your options, Josh is ready to help guide you through the mortgage process with clarity and care. Contact Josh: 616-402-7823Coupe Burr Insurance in Partnership with Fremont Mutual Insurance:Protecting what matters most. Coupe Burr Insurance, partnered with Fremont Mutual Insurance, provides dependable coverage for everything from life’s small bumps to major storms.Jose Morales is ready to assist with your insurance needs. Contact: 616-355-2920🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate -https://iconsofrealestate.com/

  2. 9

    How Paws With A Cause Changes Lives Through Service Dogs

    🚀 In this inspiring episode of Keys of the Community, Ashley Diersch shares how Paws With A Cause transforms lives by training and placing highly skilled assistance and facility dogs across the country. Learn about medical alert dogs, autism service dogs, facility dogs in hospitals and schools, and the incredible process behind raising and training these life-changing companions.🎧 Hosted by: Phil Nykamp👤 Guest:🏡 Ashley Diersch – Chief Advancement Officer, Paws With A CauseAshley Diersch is the Chief Advancement Officer at Paws With A Cause® (PAWS), leading fundraising and communications to expand the organization’s impact through custom-trained assistance dogs. She brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience and a strong focus on community partnerships and accessibility.💡 Key Topics Covered:✔️ Nationwide assistance dog placement programs✔️ Medical alert dog scent detection training✔️ Facility dogs in hospitals and classrooms✔️ Puppy raiser and volunteer opportunities✔️ The custom dog-client matching process🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights!💼 Connect with Ashley Diersch:🌐 Website → https://www.pawswithacause.org/🎙 Follow Phil Nykamp:🌎 Website → https://phil-nykamp.com/📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PhilNykampRealtor/?locale=vi_VN📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/philnykamprealtor/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/philnykamp322/🤝 This Episode Is Proudly Sponsored By:Lighthouse Title: Navigating your title and closing needs in Holland since 2001. Contact: 616-393-9240 Independent Bank – Joshua DeVries, Mortgage Lender: Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or exploring your options, Josh is ready to help guide you through the mortgage process with clarity and care. Contact Josh: 616-402-7823Coupe Burr Insurance in Partnership with Fremont Mutual Insurance:Protecting what matters most. Coupe Burr Insurance, partnered with Fremont Mutual Insurance, provides dependable coverage for everything from life’s small bumps to major storms.Jose Morales is ready to assist with your insurance needs. Contact: 616-355-2920🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate -https://iconsofrealestate.com/

  3. 8

    Water, Growth & Property Explained - EP 6

    🚀 In this insightful episode, Joe Bush, Ottawa County Water Resources Commissioner, breaks down how water infrastructure impacts real estate, development, and property values. From managing over 1,000 county drains to tackling groundwater challenges and rapid population growth, Joe shares how his team protects homes, supports development, and plans for the future of water in one of Michigan’s fastest-growing counties.🎧 Hosted by: Phil👤 Guest:🏡 Joe Bush – Water Resources CommissionerJoe Bush has served as Water Resources Commissioner for Ottawa County, Michigan since 2013, overseeing the protection of watersheds, stormwater infrastructure, soil erosion control, and water quality across the county. In this role, he leads a team responsible for the construction, operation, and maintenance of more than 1,300 stormwater management systems.💡 Key Topics Covered:✔️ Role of the Water Resources Commissioner✔️ Water infrastructure and real estate development✔️ Groundwater challenges and well sustainability✔️ Importance of retention and detention ponds✔️ Tips for homeowners on managing water usage🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights!💼 Connect with Joe Bush:🌐 Website → https://votejoebush.com/🌐 Website → https://miottawa.org/wrc/🎙 Follow Phil Nykamp:🌎 Website → https://phil-nykamp.com/📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PhilNykampRealtor/?locale=vi_VN📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/philnykamprealtor/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/philnykamp322/🤝 This Episode Is Proudly Sponsored By:Lighthouse Title: Navigating your title and closing needs in Holland since 2001. Contact: 616-393-9240 Independent Bank – Joshua DeVries, Mortgage Lender: Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or exploring your options, Josh is ready to help guide you through the mortgage process with clarity and care. Contact Josh: 616-402-7823Coupe Burr Insurance in Partnership with Fremont Mutual Insurance:Protecting what matters most. Coupe Burr Insurance, partnered with Fremont Mutual Insurance, provides dependable coverage for everything from life’s small bumps to major storms.Jose Morales is ready to assist with your insurance needs. Contact: 616-355-2920🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate -https://iconsofrealestate.com/

  4. 7

    Insurance Coverage During Real Estate Transitions - EP 5

    🚀 In this episode, Andrew and Jose from Koop & Burr Insurance break down essential insurance insights every homeowner, renter, and buyer should know. From coverage during moves and condo policies to umbrella insurance and water damage claims, this conversation is packed with practical advice to protect your assets and avoid costly mistakes.🎧 Hosted by: Phil Nykamp👤 Guest:🏡 Andrew Koop & Jose Mireles – Insurance Experts, Koop & Burr Insurance💡 Key Topics Covered:✔️ Insurance coverage during home sales and moves✔️ Scheduling valuables for full protection✔️ Condo insurance vs. HOA responsibilities✔️ Umbrella policies and liability protection✔️ Water damage claims and sump pump coverage🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights!💼 Connect with Andrew Koop & Jose Mireles:🌐 Website → https://www.koopburr.com/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-koop-56976641🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/josemirelesjr🎙 Follow Phil Nykamp:🌎 Website → https://phil-nykamp.com/📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PhilNykampRealtor/?locale=vi_VN📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/philnykamprealtor/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/philnykamp322/🤝 This Episode Is Proudly Sponsored By:Lighthouse Title: Navigating your title and closing needs in Holland since 2001. Contact: 616-393-9240 Independent Bank – Joshua DeVries, Mortgage Lender: Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or exploring your options, Josh is ready to help guide you through the mortgage process with clarity and care. Contact Josh: 616-402-7823Coupe Burr Insurance in Partnership with Fremont Mutual Insurance:Protecting what matters most. Coupe Burr Insurance, partnered with Fremont Mutual Insurance, provides dependable coverage for everything from life’s small bumps to major storms.Jose Morales is ready to assist with your insurance needs. Contact: 616-355-2920🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate -https://iconsofrealestate.com/

  5. 6

    Delivering 700 Beds to Kids in Need | Holland, MI Community Story - EP 4

    🚀 In this inspiring episode, Phil sits down with Lisa Ghiardi to discuss her journey from real estate appraiser to nonprofit leader in Holland, Michigan. Lisa shares how she became involved with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, delivering nearly 700 beds to local children in need, and her role as Executive Director of the Zealand Education Foundation. From supporting innovative classroom grants to ensuring no child sleeps on the floor in our town, this conversation highlights the power of community engagement and servant leadership.🎧 Hosted by: Phil Nykamp👤 Guest:🏡 Lisa Ghiardi – Licensed Real Estate Appraiser & Nonprofit LeaderLisa Ghiardi is a real estate appraiser and community leader in West Michigan. She serves as the Executive Director and Community Engagement Coordinator for the Zeeland Education Foundation and is also a chapter president of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, supporting local families through nonprofit service.💡 Key Topics Covered:✔️ Addressing bed insecurity in the local community✔️ Supporting teachers through classroom innovation grants✔️ How businesses and individuals can give back✔️ Leadership development for high school students✔️ Building stronger communities through service🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights!💼 Connect with Lisa Ghiardi:📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/zeelandeducationfoundation🔗 LinkedIn  → https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-ghiardi/🎙 Follow Phil Nykamp:🌎 Website → https://phil-nykamp.com/📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PhilNykampRealtor/?locale=vi_VN📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/philnykamprealtor/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/philnykamp322/🤝 This Episode Is Proudly Sponsored By:Lighthouse Title: Navigating your title and closing needs in Holland since 2001. Contact: 616-393-9240 Independent Bank – Joshua DeVries, Mortgage Lender: Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or exploring your options, Josh is ready to help guide you through the mortgage process with clarity and care. Contact Josh: 616-402-7823Coupe Burr Insurance in Partnership with Fremont Mutual Insurance:Protecting what matters most. Coupe Burr Insurance, partnered with Fremont Mutual Insurance, provides dependable coverage for everything from life’s small bumps to major storms.Jose Morales is ready to assist with your insurance needs. Contact: 616-355-2920🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate -https://iconsofrealestate.com/

  6. 5

    Inside Downtown Holland’s Growth and Revitalization - EP 3

    Phil Nykamp interviews Jeff Genova about the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) in Holland, Michigan, and Jeff Genova’s role supporting residents, businesses, and visitors. They discuss the historic snowmelt system, the new $11M downtown ice rink, future 8th Street improvements, recreation connectivity projects, and how strategic planning continues to shape downtown as a year-round destination.🎧 Hosted by: Phil Nykamp👤 Guest:🖋 Jeff Genova – Downtown Development Authority (DDA) RepresentativeJeff Genova is the Downtown Development Authority Coordinator for the City of Holland, where he works to support and strengthen the city’s downtown district. Prior to joining the city, he served for more than seven years as General Manager of Big Lake Brewing in Holland. Jeff also brings a creative background as a former contributing photographer for Getty Images, with work that took him around the world.💡 Key Topics Covered✔️ Downtown Holland DDA operations✔️ Snowmelt system history and scale✔️ $11M downtown ice rink development✔️ 8th Street future infrastructure updates✔️ Recreation hub and connectivity planning✔️ Farmers Market and Tulip Time📇 Connect with Jeff Genova:📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/oneday100miles/📱 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/jeffgenovaphotography/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-genova-11ba175/🎙 Follow Phil Nykamp:🌎 Website → https://phil-nykamp.com/📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PhilNykampRealtor/?locale=vi_VN📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/philnykamprealtor/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/philnykamp322/🤝 This Episode Is Proudly Sponsored By:- Lighthouse Title: Navigating your title and closing needs in Holland since 2001. Contact: 616-393-9240 - Independent Bank – Joshua DeVries, Mortgage Lender: Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or exploring your options, Josh is ready to help guide you through the mortgage process with clarity and care. Contact Josh: 616-402-7823- Coupe Burr Insurance in Partnership with Fremont Mutual Insurance:Protecting what matters most. Coupe Burr Insurance, partnered with Fremont Mutual Insurance, provides dependable coverage for everything from life’s small bumps to major storms.Jose Morales is ready to assist with your insurance needs. Contact: 616-355-2920🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate -https://iconsofrealestate.com/

  7. 4

    Building Health, Wellness, and Community Through Prime IV - EP 2

    In this episode of Keys to the Community, Phil Nykamp sits down with Dana Kupper, owner of Prime IV Hydration & Wellness in Holland and Arizona. Dana Kupper shares her journey building a top-performing spa franchise, expanding into West Michigan, and educating clients on IV therapy, NAD+, peptides, and proactive wellness. The conversation highlights entrepreneurship, community impact, and helping people live longer, healthier lives.🎧 Hosted by: Phil Nykamp👤 Guest:🖋 Dana Kupper – Owner, Prime IV Hydration & WellnessDana Kupper is a multi-unit entrepreneur and wellness business owner operating Prime IV Hydration & Wellness locations in Arizona and Michigan. With nearly two decades of leadership experience, she focuses on building people-first businesses and is now spending more time in West Michigan as she builds roots in the Holland community.💡 Key Topics Covered✔️ IV hydration therapy✔️ NAD+ and cognitive health✔️ Peptide treatments✔️ Community-driven business growth✔️ Mobile wellness services📇 Connect with Dana Kupper:📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PrimeIVHolland/📱 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/primeivholland/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-lam/🎙 Follow Phil Nykamp:🌎 Website → https://phil-nykamp.com/📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PhilNykampRealtor/?locale=vi_VN📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/philnykamprealtor/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/philnykamp322/🤝 This Episode Is Proudly Sponsored By:- Lighthouse Title: Navigating your title and closing needs in Holland since 2001. Contact: 616-393-9240 - Independent Bank – Joshua DeVries, Mortgage Lender: Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or exploring your options, Josh is ready to help guide you through the mortgage process with clarity and care. Contact Josh: 616-402-7823- Coupe Burr Insurance in Partnership with Fremont Mutual Insurance:Protecting what matters most. Coupe Burr Insurance, partnered with Fremont Mutual Insurance, provides dependable coverage for everything from life’s small bumps to major storms.Jose Morales is ready to assist with your insurance needs. Contact: 616-355-2920🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate -https://iconsofrealestate.com/

  8. 3

    Introducing the Keys to the Community Podcast - EP 1

    In this introductory episode, Phil Nykamp from Keller Williams Harbortown Realty shares his journey from a business insurance career to becoming a realtor in West Michigan. He discusses his passion for real estate, his personal background, and the mission of his new podcast 'Keys to the Community'. The podcast will delve into various aspects of real estate and community engagement, featuring discussions with home inspectors, lenders, title reps, nonprofits, local business owners, and community leaders. Phil expresses gratitude to sponsors and invites listeners to suggest guests for future episodes.🎧 Hosted by: Phil Nykamp💡 Key Topics Covered✔️ Career transition into real estate✔️ Community-focused podcast vision✔️ Real estate transaction insights✔️ Nonprofit and business leadership✔️ Buyer and seller guidance🎙 Follow Phil Nykamp:🌎 Website → https://phil-nykamp.com/📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/PhilNykampRealtor/?locale=vi_VN📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/philnykamprealtor/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/philnykamp322/🤝 This Episode Is Proudly Sponsored By:- Lighthouse Title: Navigating your title and closing needs in Holland since 2001. Contact: 616-393-9240 - Independent Bank – Joshua DeVries, Mortgage Lender: Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or exploring your options, Josh is ready to help guide you through the mortgage process with clarity and care. Contact Josh: 616-402-7823- Coupe Burr Insurance in Partnership with Fremont Mutual Insurance:Protecting what matters most. Coupe Burr Insurance, partnered with Fremont Mutual Insurance, provides dependable coverage for everything from life’s small bumps to major storms.Jose Morales is ready to assist with your insurance needs. Contact: 616-355-2920🔖 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!💎 Produced by Icons of Real Estate -https://iconsofrealestate.com/

  9. 2

    Intro.

    The Keys to the Community is your go-to podcast for real estate and community in West Michigan, hosted by Phil Nykamp. Each episode features local business owners, leaders, and industry pros sharing market insights and neighborhood stories. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply love where you live, you’ll get practical real estate tips and inspiring conversations that celebrate the people and places that make our community thrive.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

The Keys to the Community is your go-to podcast for real estate and community in West Michigan, hosted by Phil Nykamp. Each episode features local business owners, leaders, and industry pros sharing market insights and neighborhood stories. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply love where you live, you’ll get practical real estate tips and inspiring conversations that celebrate the people and places that make our community thrive.

HOSTED BY

Phil Nykamp

CATEGORIES

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