MI Best: An MLive Podcast

The Art and Science of Downtowns with Dana Walker from the Michigan Downtown Association

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

 

At Home with Eastbrook Homes Exploring 2023 Achievements and Anticipating 2024 Prospects

In the latest episode of 'At Home with Eastbrook Homes,' Josh McGraw provides an insightful reflection on their fruitful accomplishment in 2023, despite the end-year uncertainties. He lauds the resilience and determination of the Eastbrook Homes team, who succeeded in maintaining a positive stride throughout the year.

Providing a forecasting glimpse into 2024, McGraw unveils Eastbrook Homes' exciting new ventures and ambitious housing projects in Allendale's Emerald Springs and Spring Lake's Kingfisher Estates. This expansion offers more diverse housing options and promises comfortable and serene living spaces designed for homeowner satisfaction.

Moreover, their commitment to meeting dynamic customer needs is demonstrated through the roll-out of new, aesthetic, and cost-effective home plans. McGraw affirms that they're devoted to ensuring these home plans are not only practical and reasonable but also beautiful.

Innovation and Practicality: The Concepts Behind Eastbrook Home's Housing Designs

Experience a deep dive into the unique, innovative concepts behind Eastbrook Home's housing plans in this enlightening episode. Discover the distinctive designs of the Haven and the Marigold - two of Eastbrook's signature townhouse and condo plans. Gain valuable understanding of the creative and strategic steps taken to transform raw land into functional, aesthetic, and budget-friendly housing.

Explore how Eastbrook reimagines traditional townhouse designs to create innovative multi-unit structures that accommodate different lifestyles. Learn about the transition of the Cass, a traditional townhouse model, into the flexible Haven, and the evolution of the terrace home design into the luxurious yet affordable Marigold.

We also invite the audience to a behind-the-scenes tour of Eastbrook Homes' home-building process. Get firsthand insights into how we assist homeowners in making informed choices and navigate the journey of constructing their dream homes. Understand how Eastbrook Homes crafts a seamless and effortless home-building experience with a tailored, all-in-one design process for client convenience. This episode is a must-watch for prospective homeowners, design enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the intricate merging of creativity and practicality in the homebuilding industry.

Unveiling Jared Gadbaw's Stellar Success in Michigan's Restaurant Scene

Today's episode of Michigan's Best podcast highlights the remarkable journey of Jared Gadbaw, renowned Executive Chef, and Owner of Oak and Reel. Hailing from Garden City, Michigan’s humble avenues, Gadbaw made his way to the esteemed kitchens of New York, crediting his success to unswerving dedication and fervor for culinary arts. His childhood experiences in Michigan fostered an early love for food and cooking, propelling him toward a hospitality degree from Michigan State. A pivotal experience, his college life honed his culinary skills and exposed him to a dynamic kitchen environment.

Jared furthered his education at the French Culinary Institute, diving deeper into his culinary ambitions. He goes behind the scenes of his stint at the prestigious Eleven Madison Park, describing the demanding environment and invaluable lessons that established the foundation of his future triumphs. Among his notable accolades, Jared earned two Michelin stars during his tenure at Marea, garnering attention on the local, national, and global stage.

The episode wraps with Jared detailing his dramatic return to Michigan and the launch of his restaurant, Oak and Reel. Influenced by his connection to local seafood providers, Motor City Seafood, Jared sought to bring top-tier culinary experiences to his hometown. Showing a deep appreciation for traditional cooking techniques, Gadbaw ensures each plate served at Oak and Reel reflects the quality and natural flavors of locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, steering clear of unnecessary garnishes or trends.

 

 

Rob Bell Talks Where’d You Park Your Spaceship on the MI Best Podcast

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

Eastbrook Homes’ house featured on HGTV’s House Hunters | At Home with Eastbrook Homes

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

Celebrate Gluten-Free Diet Awareness with Kerry from Papa Chops

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

Skot Welch talks Unfractured - How a new conversation can change the world

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

It’s Holiday Bourbon Season - we talk to Bees in the D about Detroit City Distillery’s Honey Bourbon

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

West Michigan’s housing market with Jeff Costello | At Home with Eastbrook Homes

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

Silver Beach Carousel Foundation | MI Best Podcast

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