Inspire West Michigan

Kelly Larson: The Ice Cream Innovator & Grand Haven Icon | Episode 2

Join us for a deliciously inspiring conversation with Kelly Larson, a longtime Grand Haven entrepreneur best known for building some of the community’s most beloved “fun” destinations: Sweet Temptations, Temptations, The Front Porch, Skoops, and the historic Fortino’s specialty food and gift shop downtown. Kelly’s journey began at age 15 with her first job on the Grand Haven boardwalk—a path that evolved into a thriving family business now recognized for its multi-location success, inventive promotions, community connection, and award-winning ice cream.
In this episode, discover how Kelly turned her passion for ice cream and candy into a year-round business, navigated the challenges and joys of family entrepreneurship, and championed a growth mindset rooted in serving customers and developing the next generation of leaders. Hear about her nationally recognized flavors, creative promotions like the much-loved Stuff Your Stanley event and holiday advent-style ice cream calendar, and her commitment to empowering young employees with real responsibility and life skills.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, community booster, or ice cream aficionado, you’ll enjoy Kelly’s stories of grit, invention, and giving back in Grand Haven and beyond.
Timestamps:
Introduction to Inspire West Michigan (00:00:00) Host introduces the podcast, its mission, and guest Kelly Larson.
Kelly’s First Ice Cream Job & Early Days (00:01:14) Kelly recalls her first job scooping ice cream at 15 and how it led to her career.
Advice to Young Kelly & Early Challenges (00:02:38) Kelly reflects on advice to her younger self and early business challenges.
Business Growth & Expansion Timeline (00:04:23) Kelly discusses returning to the family business, expansion, and moving to year-round operations.
Staffing & Developing Young Employees (00:05:47) Conversation about hiring, training, and retaining young staff, and changes in ideal candidates.
Transition to Year-Round Business & Corporate Gifting (00:10:01) Kelly explains the shift to year-round operations, corporate gifts, and adapting to new markets.
Kelly Larson is the creative force behind Grand Haven’s favorite ice cream shops and the historic Fortino’s, building a business—and community—where fun, flavor, and giving back are always on the menu. Don’t miss this uplifting episode!
 

How is Justin Raha Transforming the Culinary Scene in West Michigan? | Episode 1

In this inspiring episode of Inspire West Michigan, host Amy Atkinson sits down with Justin Raha—acclaimed pastry chef, owner of Grand Finale Restaurant Group, and partner at Blueberry Haven. Justin candidly shares his culinary journey from a teenage baker’s apprentice in Grand Haven to leading multiple thriving food businesses focused on scratch-made quality, creative adaptation, and community connection. Justin Raha, Chef/Owner — Grand Finale Bistro & Café and Grand Finale Deli & Bakeshop
Discover how Justin navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship, embraced changing food trends like gluten-free and vegan offerings, pivoted during the pandemic, and built a restaurant group that’s as passionate about people and collaboration as it is about food. You’ll also hear the exciting story behind his partnership with Chef Jeremy and Blueberry Haven, plus how Grand Finale’s bistro and bakery experiences help shape what’s next in Michigan’s dining scene.
Whether you’re a food lover, entrepreneur, or community supporter, you’ll be inspired by Justin’s commitment to innovation, local collaboration, and giving back. Grab a seat at the table for behind-the-scenes stories, leadership wisdom, and a taste of something sweet!
Key Timecodes:
00:01:39 — Justin’s Educational Journey  00:08:31 — Navigating the Pandemic  00:15:06 — Scratch Cooking & Allergen-Friendly Innovation  00:26:39 — Collaboration Over Competition  00:40:16 — Wine Education & Creative Experiences  
Watch now and feed your passion for food, entrepreneurship, and West Michigan’s creative spirit!