The Real America Project

Get ready for an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek at the making of Deer Camp 86, the horror comedy hitting theaters on May 31st! Our guest, accomplished editor Scott McCambridge, takes us through the thrilling journey from initial edit to final release, sharing highlights like working with scriptwriter Eric Mishila and director Harold Cronk. You'll hear about the fun camaraderie, the challenges of balancing crude humor with suspense, and how excellent acting performances made this project a dream come true.

We'll treat you to a sneak peek of the trailer and a firsthand account of what it’s like to edit a film that's equal parts hilarious and terrifying. Learn how the team’s strong collaboration brought Deer Camp 86 to life, creating a unique blend of humor and horror that promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a film buff or just curious about the movie-making magic, this episode is packed with insights and entertaining stories you won’t want to miss.

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

Join host Eldon Palmer as he sits down with the inspiring Chef Jenna Arcidiacono to discuss her incredible journey from Manhattan to San Francisco and eventually Grand Rapids, MI with a few lessons and adventures on the journey! Chef Jenna shares her passion for food, love, and kindness through her restaurant Amore Trattoria Italiana and her heartwarming initiative, Food Hugs. This episode is filled with touching stories of compassion, adventure, and the power of community. Listen in to hear how Chef Jenna’s experiences and family heritage shaped her into the culinary force she is today.

Five Takeaways from this episode:
The Power of Food Hugs: Chef Jenna’s initiative, Food Hugs, started during the pandemic to support frontline workers and has grown into a movement of kindness, providing meals, groceries, and even vehicles to those in need.
   
Community and Connection: Jenna emphasizes the importance of connecting with others, whether through shared meals, support during tough times, or simply offering a smile and a kind word.

A Culinary Journey: From working at a small drive-in in Kentwood to managing a renowned restaurant in San Francisco, and finally opening Amore Trattoria Italiana in Grand Rapids, Jenna’s journey showcases her dedication to the culinary arts and her entrepreneurial spirit.

Family and Heritage: Jenna’s story is deeply intertwined with her family history, from her parents' meeting in New York to her Italian husband’s large family and their rich culinary traditions. These influences play a significant role in her approach to cooking and hospitality.

The Impact of Kindness: Throughout the episode, Jenna shares numerous stories of how small acts of kindness have a profound impact on people’s lives. She encourages listeners to think of others and take action, no matter how small, to make a positive difference in the world.

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

In this episode, we sit down with "Santi", Santiago Estrada, who shares his incredible journey from growing up amidst gang violence in Saginaw to finding redemption through the Marine Corps and a profound spiritual awakening. Santiago's story is a testament to the power of resilience, transformation, and faith. Join us as he recounts his engaging story including his challenging upbringing, the pivotal moments that led him to a better path, and his current mission to help others through his ministry, Healing Humanity.

Takeaway Lessons

1. Resilience in Adversity: Santiago's journey illustrates the importance of resilience when faced with life's toughest challenges. Despite numerous obstacles, he continually found ways to push forward and improve his circumstances.

2. The Power of Redemption: Santiago's story emphasizes that redemption is possible for everyone. His transformation from a gang member to a dedicated community servant shows that change is achievable with the right mindset and support.

3. Impact of Faith: Santiago's spiritual awakening played a crucial role in his recovery and ongoing mission. His deep faith provided him with the strength and direction needed to overcome his past and help others.

4. Support Systems Matter: Whether it was the structure provided by the Marine Corps or the love and guidance from his ministry, having a supportive environment was vital for Santiago’s turnaround. This highlights the importance of community and support systems in personal development.

5. Giving Back: Santiago's dedication to helping others through his ministry, Healing Humanity, demonstrates the significance of giving back. By sharing his experiences and providing support to those in need, he continues to create positive change in his community.

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP Real Estate Team

The Palmer Group is an enthusiastic and dynamic team within 616 REALTY, led by the experienced Eldon Palmer, who has over 20 years of expertise in guiding clients through the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support our channel and our inspiring guests, please contact Eldon at [email protected]. Don't forget to COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE, and SUBSCRIBE to our podcast! Discover more about our services at [thepalmer.group](https://thepalmer.group/).

Whether you're moving to Michigan or another state, we're here to assist you. We’d love to chat over coffee or your favorite beverage—on us!

HAVE A SUGGESTION? WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?
Reach out to Eldon at [email protected] or send us a DM. Your ideas and stories are what make our podcast special!

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

From the tranquil soundscapes of rural Wyoming, Michigan, to leading a bustling real estate empire, Scot Kellogg's journey epitomizes the essence of determination, innovation, and the sheer force of pursuing one's dreams. In this captivating episode, join Scot as he chronicles his multifaceted path—from academic pursuits to making waves in Chicago's vibrant hip-hop scene. His pivotal moment came with the creation of a compilation CD that celebrated local artists, turning it into a heartfelt homage to burgeoning talent. Scot's saga extends beyond melodies; it serves as a profound tutorial on spotting opportunities, fostering community ties, and marching to the rhythm of entrepreneurial spirit.

As we segue from tunes to transactions, Scot's story unfolds the highs and lows that accompany a life fueled by ambition. Experience his transformation from an underdog in academia to a virtuoso of the housing market, where he founded and continues to build 616 Realty. With over a hundred agents and growing, the firm's ethos revolves around collaborative growth, leveraging social media, great branding, authenticity and enhancing support systems within the team. Tune in as Scot divulges his strategies for personal and professional mastery, making this episode an inspiring soundtrack for anyone looking to craft their own success narrative.

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

Discover the secrets of thriving in the mortgage industry from someone who's seen it all. Bob Hein of Mercantile Bank joins us to share his unexpected journey from sports enthusiast to economic whiz and eventually, a mortgage maestro. His story is a fascinating look at how adaptability and relationship-building can pave the way to a lasting career, even when you step into it 37 years ago! 

Navigating the real estate market's highs and lows can be a wild ride, and Bob provides a front-row seat to the strategies that helped him and his clients stay afloat during the most trying times. From embracing FHA loans during the mortgage crisis to the personal touch of fridge magnets and mailings, Bob's approach underlines the creativity and resilience required to make intelligent investments in people and maintain client trust when the industry faces turmoil.

In a world where WHO you know can be just as crucial as WHAT you know, Bob stresses the importance of nurturing relationships for real estate and mortgage triumph. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned professional, the insights from this conversation will inspire you to balance marketing savvy with top-notch service. Tune in and absorb the wisdom from a man who builds more than just mortgage plans—he builds lasting connections.

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

When Michelle Crumback, my personal friend, client and an all-round beacon of resilience and tenacity in the jewelry industry, graced our studio, she brought with her a treasure trove of insights that shimmer just as brightly as her exquisite diamond pieces. Her tale of transformation from a fledgling jewelry enthusiast from Florida to an independent jewelry consultant and diamond broker in Michigan epitomizes the fortitude required to succeed in the entrepreneurial world, and she's here to share her secrets. Join us as she recounts the pivotal moments where personal growth was as crucial as the finest cut diamond, and teaches us how a business model rooted in deep client relationships is the true jewel in her crown.

Throughout our conversation, Michelle unravels the threads of her personal narrative, demonstrating how every setback was a setup for a comeback, inspiring you to apply this philosophy to your own challenges. Her approach to selling jewelry is as unique as her designs, showing us how the artistry of jewelry is not just in the craft, but also in the connections it fosters. From empowering men to find the perfect gift for their partners to guiding couples through the maze of engagement ring shopping, Michelle’s personalized service shines a spotlight on the elegance of understanding and trust. Tune in for a session that sparkles with wisdom and learn why Michelle Crumback is a gem in her field.

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 dreamt of pairing a strategic board game with a cold pint? Nathan Murray, one of the two brains behind House Rules Board Game Lounge, shares his entrepreneurial journey from the humdrum of small-town existence to the bustling energy of Grand Rapids' nightlife. His tale is one of resilience, confronting early financial hurdles, and steering a unique business concept through the choppy waters of an industry that was blindsided by a global pandemic.

Nate doesn't stop at recounting the trials; he dives into the art of successful partnerships and how they've become the cornerstone of not just surviving, but thriving in a competitive market. From grappling with red tape to finessing the perfect balance between work and play, his experiences shed light on the critical decisions that have shaped customer relationships and paved the way for expansion, including the introduction of a kitchen to their board game haven.

We wrap up with Nate's seasoned advice for those itching to take the entrepreneurial plunge. He offers a measured approach, stressing financial savvy over simple passion. It's an invaluable reality check for those lured by the romance of self-employment, complemented by an open invitation to visit House Rules Lounge – a place where the allure of board games meets the comfort of beer, promising the added delight of burgers and fries soon. Join us for a story that's as much about the intricacies of business as it is about the joy found in the little squares and pieces of a board game.

Learn more about House Rules Board Game Lounge here: https://houseruleslounge.com/

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, contact [email protected], drop a comment, and LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast. You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/

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

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

When you hear Josh Pulsifer's story, it's like watching a tree firmly rooted in rocky soil flourish against the harsh elements. As our guest from Transnation Title, Josh shares an intimate portrait of his ascent from the grips of poverty to the summit of his current aspirations—a narrative that resonates with the kind of resilience and determination we all hope to embody. His life is a testament to the significance of positive influences, from the unwavering support of his grandparents to the steadfastness of his faith, all of which helped him navigate the tumultuous waters of a challenging upbringing in Muskegon, Michigan. As we unpack his journey from a stock boy to a corporate success, we uncover the universal themes of ambition and the critical life choices that pave the road to personal success.

Whether it's through the heartfelt bonds of marriage or the disciplined symphony of balancing work and family, we discuss the profound impact of authenticity in forging strong foundations for ourselves. This conversation is a reminder that the courage to face our past can shape a steadfast platform for achievement and satisfaction in the present and beyond.

We then shift our focus to the essence of human connection—how empathy can be a golden thread sewing us together through shared experiences and how our intrinsic ties to nature can be both grounding and enlightening. Amongst anecdotes of grounding, and plant-based ceremonies, our dialogue turns to the significance of respecting nature and our role within it. We close with an invitation for continuous learning, drawing from eclectic sources like Jia Jiang's "Rejection Proof" and the diverse insights from podcasts such as Joe Rogan's, solidifying the idea that curiosity is the fuel for lifelong learning and success. If you're looking to connect with your community, this is a great reminder of the people around us, and being REAL!

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, contact [email protected], drop a comment, and like or subscribe to this podcast. You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/

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

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

Unlock the secrets of transforming your living space for a quicker and more profitable sale as we chat with Anna from C2 Interiors, whose 20 years in the business have made her a maestro of house staging. This episode is brimming with her expert strategies, focusing on decluttering, finessing floor plans, and utilizing neutral color schemes to captivate potential buyers. As Michigan's spring market buzzes with activity, we delve into the distinct tactics required for staging new constructions versus resale homes, and how these nuanced approaches can influence buyer interest and offers.

Ever considered the simple, yet profound, impact of painting cabinets or swapping out old fixtures? Join us to explore the budget-friendly updates that can refresh key areas like kitchens and bathrooms—often the make-or-break spaces for prospective buyers. We don't just tell you why staging and professional photography can elevate your home's appeal; we guide you through a practical checklist to prioritize your renovations wisely. It's all about making smart investments to create an inviting canvas that buyers can easily picture as their future home.

For those daunted by the prospect of decluttering, we illuminate the game-changing role of storage units and pods to streamline the staging and moving process. Anna and Eldon's clients have reaped the benefits of these solutions, making their homes more marketable and easing their transition when time to move. And because we love our quirky moments, don't miss out on the light-hearted sign-off with Bling, the chicken. It's the kind of send-off that adds just the right touch of whimsy to our conversation on high stakes home sales.

FOR MORE INFO ABOUT ANNA AND HER BUSINESS: https://c2interiorsllc.com/

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, contact [email protected], drop a comment, and like or subscribe to this podcast. You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/

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

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

Unlock the secrets of entrepreneurial success with Ashton and Keegan from Short Kings Moving as they map out their journey from college start-up to West Michigan moving industry leaders. They've mastered the chess game of business growth, sharing how they cash-purchased a moving truck within five months and continue to checkmate the competition with smart SEO and marketing tactics. Their playbook is not just about muscle and boxes; it's about strategic thinking, savvy reinvestment, and a thorough understanding of finance and business that has propelled their company forward.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to build a credible and well-loved brand from the ground up. Ashton and Keegan aren't just moving furniture; they're moving the needle on customer engagement, creating a strong social media presence, and ensuring an empathetic touch with every transaction. As they unpack the nitty-gritty of hiring, the significance of owner involvement, and the power of community connectivity, you'll be inspired to lift your own business ideas off the ground—no heavy lifting required. Join us for a lively conversation that proves with the right strategies, even the underdogs can move mountains. 

For more information visit: https://www.shortkingzmoving.com/ 
Contact Ashton or Keegan at [email protected]

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, contact [email protected], drop a comment, and like or subscribe to this podcast. You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/

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

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