The Real America Project

Discover why Grand Rapids is quickly becoming a business haven as Brent Case from the Right Place reveals the secrets behind employee retention and local business expansion in West Michigan. Learn about the strategic advantages like workforce availability and cost of living that make this region a hotspot for companies. But that's not all: filmmaker Sam VerMerris takes us on a behind-the-scenes journey of perseverance in the world of short films, sharing the grit required to complete creative projects despite overwhelming odds. 

Uncover the transformative power of resilience through Crystal Barnett's heartfelt story of overcoming addiction, founding a sober living facility for single mothers, and the emotional journey of regaining custody of her children. Hear Scott Hayes' insightful perspective on optimizing talent through behavioral assessments and how understanding these dynamics has been pivotal in his career. This episode is a rich tapestry of inspiring tales and invaluable lessons from a diverse group of professionals, each bringing a unique perspective on overcoming life's challenges and achieving personal growth.

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

Join us as we uncover the heartwarming story of Chef Jenna, whose vibrant personality and unwavering kindness have touched countless lives. From delivering meals to exhausted frontline workers to creating "porch treats" that brought joy to her community, Chef Jenna illustrates the incredible impact of generosity. Despite facing criticism, she remains a steadfast advocate for positivity and kindness, reminding us all of the power we hold to uplift one another in challenging times.

Discover the remarkable transformations that occur when individuals face their greatest challenges head-on. Hear the candid and inspiring journey of Aaron Sorrells, who overcame alcoholism to reinvent himself as the "unemployed alcoholic" and founder of the Soapstone Comedy Club in Meta Horizon Worlds. Aaron’s story is a testament to resilience and the unexpected paths that lead to new beginnings. Additionally, we bring you the inspiring tale of Katie DeBoer who established a thriving homeschool co-op, creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment for children who struggled in traditional schools. These stories of community, recovery, and perseverance are sure to leave you motivated and filled with hope.

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

Ever wondered how one can rise from the depths of despair to find ultimate success? Michelle Crumback’s story is one for the books, as she takes us through her incredible journey from homelessness to becoming a cherished jeweler who values every client’s experience. Tune in for Bob Hein’s expert advice gathered from over 25 years in the mortgage business at Mercantile Bank, where he shares his best marketing strategies and the power of staying consistent. And let’s not forget Scott Kellogg, who wears many hats as the broker owner of 616 Realty and a manager of a small rap business in Chicago. He’ll give you the inside scoop on the importance of mentorship and seeking guidance in any career. 

On a more emotional note, we tackle the difficult subject of childhood bullying, fitting in, surviving gang life and the influence of the marines and faith on Santiago Estrada's journey. This episode offers not just stories, but lessons in overcoming adversity and finding strength within.

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

What if the key to a better life for single mothers battling addiction lies in one woman's journey through her own personal hell and back? Meet Crystal Barnett, founder of A Mother's Touch, who shares her powerful story from a challenging childhood in Grand Rapids to creating a transformative sober living program for single mothers. Through her struggles with addiction, we learn about the profound impact of her early experiences, including supportive teachers who offered her a glimpse of hope amidst chaos.

Crystal's tale is not for the faint-hearted. She recounts her descent into severe addiction, including her battles with crack cocaine and the strain it put on her family, especially her relationship with her daughter. Hear firsthand how her life spiraled out of control, leading to multiple stints in rehab and losing custody of her child. But within these dark times, Crystal found moments of clarity and determination, notably through the compassion of a CPS worker and the birth of her last child, which ignited her commitment to sobriety. We explore the complexities of her family dynamics, childhood rejection, and the emotional pain that fueled her addiction, all while witnessing her steps toward recovery.

Finally, we see the remarkable transformation of Crystal turning her personal recovery into professional empowerment. Her creation of A Mother’s Touch stands as a testament to the importance of stable housing and comprehensive support systems for mothers in early recovery. Crystal shares inspiring success stories of mothers reuniting with their children and transitioning to permanent housing, emphasizing the power of community support. This episode highlights not just her journey, but also the critical need for programs like A Mother's Touch that provide genuine support and hope for a better future. Join us as we delve into Crystal's mission to empower other mothers on their path to sobriety and a fulfilling life.

Takeaways for the Audience

1. The Impact of Early Intervention:
   Crystal’s story highlights the importance of early support from teachers and community members, which can significantly influence a child’s life trajectory.
2. The Role of Personal Struggles in Shaping Purpose:
   Personal hardships and struggles with addiction can lead to a greater understanding of others in similar situations, paving the way for impactful advocacy and support.
3. The Power of Community Support:
   The support Crystal received from various individuals and organizations was crucial in her recovery and underscores the importance of building a strong support network.
4. Resilience and Persistence in Recovery:
   Crystal’s journey shows that recovery is an ongoing process requiring resilience, persistence, and a willingness to seek and accept help repeatedly.
5. Creating Safe and Supportive Environments:
   A Mother's Touch provides a safe and stable living environment for single mothers in recovery, demonstrating the need for specialized support systems to help individuals rebuild their lives.

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

What if you could transform your leadership style and revolutionize your team's productivity with just a few simple insights? Join us as we chat with Scott Hays from Synergistic Systems, who shares his remarkable journey from aspiring police officer to becoming an influential leader in behavioral testing for human resources. Scott's path, winding through private security, substitute teaching, and coaching high school wrestling, offers a treasure trove of lessons that have shaped his unique approach to leadership and employee engagement. 

In this episode, we uncover the secrets behind improving company culture and employee retention through the innovative Predictive Index (PI). Scott delves into how understanding employees' behavioral profiles can help leaders tailor their management styles, leading to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates. We also explore the impact of the Great Resignation, emphasizing the shift from the golden rule of management to the more personalized platinum rule. Learn how these strategies can create a more cohesive, motivated, and high-performing team environment.

Get ready to demystify the Predictive Index assessment and its role in optimizing both company culture and individual performance. Scott breaks down the nuances of PI, comparing it to other assessments like DISC and Myers-Briggs, and highlights its unique free choice stimulus response approach. From understanding behavioral differences to leveraging AI for better hiring practices, this episode is packed with invaluable insights. Plus, hear heartwarming success stories from various industries and discover the joy of fostering professional connections through networking. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

Five Takeaways for Listeners:

1. The Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership:
   • Scott emphasizes how understanding your own behavioral patterns and those of your team members can significantly enhance leadership effectiveness. Self-awareness is the foundation of empathetic and adaptive leadership.
2. Hiring the Right Fit:
   • The significance of using behavioral assessments in the hiring process to ensure the right fit for both the role and the company culture. This approach reduces turnover and increases employee satisfaction and productivity.
3. Tailoring Management Styles:
   • Adapting your management style to meet the needs of individual team members can lead to a more engaged and motivated workforce. The platinum rule—treat others as they need to be treated—is a game-changer in modern leadership.
4. Creating a Culture of Openness and Trust:
   • Sharing behavioral patterns within an organization fosters a culture of openness and trust. This practice improves communication, reduces friction, and enhances team dynamics.
5. Balancing Professional and Personal Life:
   • Scott's decision to leave a demanding retail management role to prioritize family highlights the importance of work-life balance. Finding a career that aligns with personal values and allows for a fulfilling personal life is crucial for long-term happiness and success.

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

What if a childhood TV hero could shape your future career aspirations? Meet Sam VerMerris, a budding filmmaker from Rockford, Michigan, who turned his fascination with "MacGyver" into a passionate journey through the world of filmmaking. Sam recounts his evolution from creating simple skits with friends to crafting more intricate films like "Evening Broadcast." Listen as Sam shares amusing behind-the-scenes stories, including the time a car got stuck in the snow during production. He provides a window into the meticulous process of planning, scriptwriting, and managing the myriad challenges that come with making a student film.

In our conversation, Sam offers valuable insights into the importance of perseverance and leadership, particularly when coordinating scenes and managing actors' schedules. We also discuss the recognition his film received at the Michigan Student Film Festival and how it has impacted his journey. As Sam looks to the future, he's actively seeking internships and PA positions to gain more hands-on experience in the film industry. Tune in to hear about his upcoming projects and learn how you can connect with this promising young filmmaker, eager to make his mark in the cinematic world.

FIND SAM HERE: https://samvermerris.my.canva.site/about

5 Takeaways
Perseverance is Key: Sam emphasizes the importance of pushing through challenges, whether it's coordinating schedules, dealing with weather issues, or motivating a team to complete a project.

Creative Problem-Solving: Filmmaking often requires on-the-spot solutions, like using a blanket to free a stuck car or adapting lighting setups to achieve the desired visual effects.

Importance of Experience: Hands-on experience is invaluable. Sam highlights that practical learning, even through trial and error, provides insights that theoretical knowledge can't match.

Collaboration and Leadership: Successfully completing a film project often involves leading and motivating a team, coordinating various roles, and ensuring everyone is aligned with the project's vision.

Evolving Vision: The final product can significantly differ from the initial concept due to practical constraints. Flexibility and adaptation are essential in the filmmaking process.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state,, we can help and we would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage on us!
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HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5 STAR REVIEW!

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

In this episode, we chat with Brent Case, VP of Business Development at The Right Place. Brent takes us through his career journey, from his military service and education at Central Michigan University to his pivotal role in economic development in Grand Rapids. We explore the strategies behind business retention and attraction, the importance of workforce development, and the major projects shaping the future of the region. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how Grand Rapids is growing and evolving to become a hub of opportunity and innovation.

5 Key Takeaways:
1. The Role of Economic Development: Economic development is not just about attracting new businesses but also retaining and expanding existing ones. The Right Place focuses on understanding local business challenges and connecting them with resources to help them grow in Grand Rapids.

2. Importance of Workforce Development: One of the primary factors for attracting and retaining businesses is the availability of a skilled workforce. Grand Rapids boasts a young and educated talent pool, with 95,000 people enrolled in local universities and community colleges.

3. Diverse Industrial Base: Grand Rapids' economy benefits from a diverse industrial base, including manufacturing, health innovations, medical devices, and furniture industries. This diversity helps the region weather economic downturns better than areas reliant on a single industry.

4. Success Stories: Examples like SnackCraft, a Greek company that chose to expand in Grand Rapids due to the available workforce and lower cost of doing business, highlight the successful outcomes of effective economic development strategies.

5. Future Challenges: Despite successes, challenges remain, such as the availability of industrial properties with the necessary infrastructure. Addressing these challenges is crucial for continuing the region's growth and attracting new businesses.

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast. 

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state,, we can help and we would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage on us!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5 STAR REVIEW
Explore the podcast

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

Ever wondered how to juggle multiple demanding roles while making a significant impact in your community?

In this episode, we sit down with Katie DeBoer, a remarkable woman who wears many hats – owner of a residential construction business, founder of the Faith and Freedom homeschool co-op, and Kent County Commissioner. Katie shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a community leader, balancing her roles in business, family, and public service. She opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and the importance of faith and perseverance in her life.

Join us as we delve into Katie's story and uncover valuable insights on leadership, resilience, and making a difference in your community.

Key Takeaways:
1. The importance of recognizing when you need help and seeking support.
2. How to transition between careers and find your true calling.
3. The impact of building a strong partnership in marriage and business.
4. Navigating the challenges of homeschooling during a pandemic.
5. The value of humility and learning before leading in public service.

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast. You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   Whether moving to Michigan or another state,, we can help and we would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage on us!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5 STAR REVIEW

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

Can humor and recovery reshape your entire life? Whether you're a comedy enthusiast or curious about the metaverse, this episode offers a compelling blend of personal narrative and innovative vision. Join us for an engaging chat with Aaron Sorrells, the Unemployed Alcoholic, as he uncovers the transformative power of clean comedy in both the real and virtual worlds. From his turbulent college days and struggles with alcoholism to his breakthrough in the world of virtual reality comedy, Aaron's story is a testament to resilience and reinvention. You'll get an in-depth look at his journey from the stages of traditional comedy clubs to the innovative creation of the Soapstone Comedy Club in Meta Horizon Worlds.

Discover how the global pandemic became a catalyst for Aaron's dive into the metaverse, leading to the development of a unique VR comedy venue that has become a beacon for both seasoned and emerging comedians. We break down the intricacies of Meta Horizon Worlds, and the Soapstone's standout features like omnipresent celebrity performances, daily open mics, and recorded video specials. Aaron also shares the challenges and triumphs of bringing a dream to virtual reality, from collaborating with world builders to managing a vibrant and dynamic online community.

But it's not just about the laughs. Aaron opens up about his personal battles, how sobriety steered him towards a fulfilling path, and the creation of Clean Comedy Time—a platform that challenges comedians to be funny without being hurtful. As Aaron reveals the meticulous process behind building the Soapstone Comedy Club, you'll gain insights into how he's merging technology and humor to create an accessible and engaging environment for comedy lovers everywhere. 

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW

What drives a filmmaker from capturing simple moments with friends to crafting intricate documentaries and high-profile series? Meet Scott McCambridge, a local filmmaker and video editor, whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Scott takes us from his early days in Traverse City, Michigan, filming with a Sony Handycam, to the profound influence Sam Raimi's "The Evil Dead" had on his passion for storytelling. The friendships and experiences in his hometown laid the foundation for his creative endeavors, ultimately leading him to collaborate on major projects. Recently he edited the award-winning  DEER CAMP '86, a made-in-Michigan comedy-thriller released in select theaters around the country and eventually to be released on streaming platforms.

Scott recounts the exhilarating yet grueling process of creating his first professional project, "Exploring Kaman," a reality TV show featuring NBA star Chris Kaman's adventures, which aired on AXS TV. With no initial storyline, Scott and his colleague Caleb Slain spent years meticulously editing raw footage into a captivating narrative. We also delve into his ambitious documentary on tobacco pipe making, a project that expanded globally and evolved over nearly a decade, highlighting the importance of collaboration and external feedback in bringing a complex story to life.

In the latter part of the conversation, Scott sheds light on the multifaceted challenges of film distribution and marketing, especially for documentaries. He shares his experiences working on a high-profile animated series based on League of Legends, emphasizing the crucial role of audience feedback and collaboration. For aspiring filmmakers, Scott offers invaluable advice: cultivate passion, practice relentlessly, and surround yourself with a supportive network. Tune in to learn the intricacies of editing, storytelling, and the creative process from a filmmaker dedicated to his craft.

Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact [email protected], drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to [email protected] or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW