Inspire West Michigan

Josh Brugger
Owner, BruggerHouse Builders & Ottawa County Commissioner
Some communities are held together by a surprisingly small number of people—the ones who volunteer, solve problems, mentor others, and quietly step forward whenever something needs to be done. Josh Brugger is one of those people.
In this episode of Inspire West Michigan, Josh shares how a chance conversation during college changed the trajectory of his life, how Habitat for Humanity helped shape his leadership philosophy, and why construction, local government, and community service are more connected than many people realize. Josh also offers an inside look at some of Ottawa County's biggest opportunities and challenges—from affordable housing and water resources to responsible growth—and explains why every community needs more people willing to ask, "If not me, then who?"
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⏱️ Timecodes:
00:00 – Introduction & Overview03:15 – The Pivotal Conversation Toward Service and Helping Others06:00 – Joining AmeriCorps & Habitat for Humanity11:00 – The Art of Historic Home Restoration14:30 – Leadership & Empowering Others24:30 – The "Sawubona" Mindset & Running for Office26:15 – Workforce Housing Incentives28:30 – Ottawa County's Water Resource Challenges35:45 – Community Moments & Ribbon Cuttings37:30 – Leading with Grace
Josh Brugger is the owner of BruggerHouse Builders, a Grand Haven-based company specializing in residential remodeling, restoration, and additions that preserve the character and craftsmanship of West Michigan's historic homes. Inspired by his early work with Habitat for Humanity and AmeriCorps, Josh built a career focused on improving both homes and communities.
In addition to leading his business, Josh serves as the Ottawa County Commissioner representing District 10. His public service has included the Grand Haven Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning Commission, City Council, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and numerous nonprofit organizations. Today, he helps shape decisions involving housing, economic development, water resources, infrastructure, and long-term community planning.
Whether restoring a century-old home or helping solve complex community challenges, Josh believes leadership begins with a willingness to serve. His philosophy is simple: communities become stronger when ordinary people choose to step forward rather than wait for someone else to act.
Get in touch: info@inspirewestmichigan.com Learn more: inspirewestmichigan.com

Maggie MaloneSuperintendent, West Michigan Academy of Arts & Academics
From learning to play music on a plastic guitar to leading one of West Michigan's most unique schools. In this episode, Maggie Malone, Superintendent of West Michigan Academy of Arts & Academics, shares how educators changed the course of her life, the leadership lessons she learned through music, and why she believes the arts enrich a student’s ability to learn and help them develop confidence and creativity.
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⏱️ Timecodes:
00:00 – Introduction to Maggie Malone and West Michigan Academy of Arts and Academics03:19 – Navigating College Applications as a First-Gen Student06:50 – Life-Changing Dog Attack Injury & Transition to Administration10:55 – Lessons in Educational Leadership & High Standards in Music vs. Academics12:47 – Giving Effective Feedback to High Performers and Struggling Teachers24:18 – Understanding Charter Schools vs. Traditional Public Schools27:00 – The Whole-Brain Benefits of Music and Arts in Learning31:40 – Advice to Her 4-Year-Old Self & Closing Remarks
 
Maggie Malone is the Superintendent of West Michigan Academy of Arts & Academics, where she combines a lifelong passion for education, leadership, and the arts to help students discover their potential.
A first-generation college graduate, Maggie's journey began with the encouragement of teachers and mentors who saw possibilities in her long before she saw them in herself. Growing up with limited resources, she found opportunity through music, eventually earning degrees  in Music Education and Performance from Michigan State University.
What started as a dream of becoming a professional musician evolved into a nearly four-decade career in education. Along the way, Maggie served as a teacher, Fine Arts Director, administrator, and educational leader, impacting thousands of students and educators throughout West Michigan.
Known for her belief that leadership is about serving others and creating opportunities for growth, Maggie has built her career around helping people become more than they thought possible. Today, she continues that mission through arts-integrated learning, meaningful relationships, and a commitment to preparing students for success both inside and outside the classroom.
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Tracy Riley
Executive Director, Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival Commander, U.S. Coast Guard (Retired)
In this episode, host Amy Atkinson sits down with retired Coast Guard Commander Tracy Riley to explore her remarkable leadership journey—from unexpectedly joining the Coast Guard to leading search and rescue operations, mentoring future officers, and ultimately returning to Grand Haven to lead one of the nation's most celebrated Coast Guard traditions.
00:00 - Inspire West Michigan Podcast Introduction 01:03 - Enlisting in the Coast Guard and Early Career Dreams 03:07 - Boot Camp in Cape May and Early Station Assignments 06:05 - Search and Rescue, Small Boat Operations, and Early Leadership Lessons 09:41 - Hazardous Oil Spill Responses and Life Aboard the Cutter Tahoma 19:14 - Station Cape May, 9/11 Duty at Headquarters, and Coming to Grand Haven 29:21 - The History and Meaning of the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival 31:25 - The Escanaba Tragedy and the National Coast Guard Memorial 33:40 - Becoming Executive Director and "Coast Guard City USA" Status 38:45 - Reflection on Lifetime Leadership, Mentorship, and Legacy Commander
Tracy Riley, USCG (Ret.), serves as Executive Director of the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival following a distinguished 28-year career in the United States Coast Guard. Beginning as an enlisted member in 1982, Tracy rose through the ranks to command Coast Guard stations, lead regional operations, and mentor future officers at Officer Candidate School.
Throughout her career, she served in assignments across the country, including search and rescue, law enforcement, environmental response, personnel leadership at Coast Guard Headquarters, and Group Commander in Grand Haven. Along the way, she became known for her people-first leadership style, commitment to mentorship, and belief that great leaders explain the "why" behind every mission.
After retiring from military service, Tracy eventually returned to Grand Haven—the community she knew would one day become home. Today, she leads one of Michigan's most beloved traditions, preserving more than a century of Coast Guard history while honoring the men and women who continue to serve our nation.
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John Foss Senior Vice President of Operations, Trinity Health Grand Haven & Shelby
In this episode, host Amy Atkinson sits down with John Foss to discuss the leadership, culture, and collaboration behind Trinity Health Shelby Hospital's recognition as one of the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the United States. John shares how teamwork, coordinated care, and a commitment to serving rural communities are helping deliver exceptional healthcare across Michigan's lakeshore region.
 
00:00 Introduction of John Foss – John details his operational leadership role spanning the Muskegon, Shelby, and Grand Haven medical campuses.
01:46 Joining the Army Out of High School – John shares why he enlisted to fund college and build personal accountability.
02:52 - Becoming a Combat Medic – How an automated test and an old video disc kicked off John's healthcare journey.
05:25 - Lessons in Empathy & Diversity – How basic training taught John to communicate across different backgrounds.
07:13 - Discovering the PA Profession – A chance encounter with a sign that introduced John to the physician assistant career track.
14:47 - Working in an HIV Clinic during the 1990s – A moving look at handling critical care and empathy during the Ryan White era.
18:46 - The Birth of the Hospitalist Movement – How John helped pioneer a groundbreaking model of centralized hospital care in West Michigan.
31:51 - Transitioning into Healthcare Administration – Pursuing an MBA to bridge the gap between business operations and clinical practice.
54:48 - Ready to Be the Most Important Person – A powerful leadership lesson on why every single hospital staff member has a day where they are the most critical piece of the puzzle.
John Foss serves as Senior Vice President of Operations for Trinity Health, overseeing hospital operations across Grand Haven and Shelby. Throughout his career, John has been committed to building strong healthcare teams, improving patient experiences, and ensuring communities have access to exceptional care close to home.
Under his leadership, Trinity Health Shelby Hospital was recognized as one of the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the United States by the Chartis Center for Rural Health—an honor awarded to only two hospitals in Michigan. John credits the achievement not to facilities or technology alone, but to a culture built on teamwork, collaboration, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to patients.
Passionate about connecting rural communities to comprehensive healthcare resources, John believes great leadership is about creating systems that allow exceptional people to do their best work while ensuring every patient receives seamless, high-quality care, regardless of which Trinity Health campus they visit.
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Jennifer Owens, President, Lakeshore Advantage
Jennifer Owens set out to tell stories. Today, she's helping write the next chapter of West Michigan's economic future.
In this episode, the President of Lakeshore Advantage shares her unlikely path from aspiring journalist to regional leader, and the lessons she's learned about growth, collaboration, and leadership along the way.
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00:00:00 - Introduction 00:15:57 - Bold Career Move: From Employee to Leader 00:19:59 - Learn to Trust your Instincts and Believe in Yourself 00:21:27 - Women in Leadership: Why You Should Take the Leap 00:32:38 - West Michigan: Preserving Local Businesses for Future Generations 00:48:17 - Retirees Want Walkable Cities & Affordable Housing
Jennifer is the President of Lakeshore Advantage, the economic development organization serving Allegan and Ottawa counties. A lifelong learner with a passion for research, writing, and problem-solving, Jennifer's career journey began far from economic development. After earning a journalism degree from Michigan State University, she set out to become a writer and broadcaster before discovering a passion for public policy, business growth, and community impact.
Over the course of her career, Jennifer has held leadership roles with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Ann Arbor SPARK, Southwest Michigan First, and Consultant Connect before joining Lakeshore Advantage. Today, she leads efforts to support business growth, talent development, entrepreneurship, housing solutions, and long-term economic prosperity across West Michigan.
Known for her collaborative leadership style, Jennifer believes communities thrive when organizations work together rather than compete. She is passionate about mentoring future leaders, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities that help both businesses and people succeed.
Through curiosity, relationship-building, and a commitment to service, Jennifer continues to help shape the future of West Michigan.
Get in touch: info@inspirewestmichigan.com Learn more: inspirewestmichigan.com

In this episode, host Amy Atkinson sits down with three of West Michigan's most influential business leaders: Mark Allen, President & CEO of the Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake & Ferrysburg; Rachel Gorman, President & CEO of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce; and Jodi Owczarski, President & CEO of the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce. 
Together, they discuss the evolution of chamber leadership, the importance of regional collaboration, workforce development challenges, and the leadership lessons they've learned throughout their careers. 
The conversation goes beyond chamber programming to explore how these leaders are helping build stronger communities, stronger businesses, and a stronger West Michigan. [01:00] - Leader Introductions [02:33] - Formation of the Coalition: The leaders share how mutual background connections and a shared mindset of "collaboration over competition" inspired the Lakeshore Chamber Coalition.[08:14] - Community Impact Day: A look into how an initial local volunteering effort expanded across the region and nation through collaborative chamber participation.[12:33] - Advocacy & Policy Work: Discussion on how combining forces gives member businesses direct access to state and regional policy leaders.[15:06] - Leadership Journeys: Each CEO outlines their personal career trajectory and how past experiences prepared them to lead their respective chambers.[20:05] - Community Differences & Local Focus: An exploration of the unique economic identities and evolving needs within Grand Haven, Holland/Zeeland, and Muskegon.[29:52] - Encouraging Peer Collaboration: How chambers create value for business owners through peer-to-peer roundtables and confidential sharing networks.[44:22] - Talent & Workforce Development: Overview of programs targeting youth career readiness, aptitude assessments (YouScience), and educational promise scholarships across the region.
Mark Allen, President & CEO, Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake & Ferrysburg
Rachel Gorman, President & CEO, Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce
Jodi Owczarski, President & CEO, Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce
Jodi Owczarski, President & CEO, Michigan West Coast Chamber of CommerceJodi’s professional background spans small business ownership, nonprofit leadership, human resources, and operations management, providing a unique perspective on leadership and organizational growth. Since becoming President & CEO in 2022, Jodi has helped guide the Chamber to national recognition while championing initiatives focused on workforce development, volunteerism, education partnerships, and community impact.
Rachel Gorman, President & CEO, Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of CommerceRachel’s efforts are focused on business advocacy, economic growth, and community development throughout the Muskegon region. Her leadership journey began within the Chamber itself, where she served in roles that allowed her to build deep relationships with local business leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders. Her collaborative approach and commitment to helping others succeed positioned her to become one of West Michigan’s most respected Chamber leaders.
Mark Allen, President & CEO, Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake & FerrysburgWith nearly 20 years of Chamber leadership experience, including senior leadership roles at the Grand Rapids Chamber, Mark Allen has dedicated his career to helping businesses thrive through strategic partnerships, workforce development, and community engagement.
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From medical assistant to blueberry farm owner, Sharon Behm shares her unique leadership journey to co-owner of one of West Michigan's most trusted local businesses. Her career pivots shaped her path, and the lessons she's learned through entrepreneurship, community service, and decades of helping people make her an inspiring leader and successful business owner. We can’t wait for you to experience her infectious energy and hear her amazing story.
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⏱️ Timecodes:
[00:00] - Introduction to Inspire West Michigan Podcas
[01:22] - Early Career & Personal Transitions
[02:46] - Entering Agriculture & Blueberry Farming
[03:34] - Joining Bor's Shoes
[08:44] - Combining Healthcare Experience with Shoe
[12:32] - Navigating Business Challenges during COVID-19
[17:42] - Buying Trends & Fostering Customer Connections women.
[27:47] - Downtown Grand Haven Development & New Hotel
[31:47] - Community Involvement & Advice for Women
 
Sharon Behm is the co-owner of Borr's Shoes, a family-owned footwear retailer serving West Michigan through locations in Grand Haven and Holland. Her career path has been anything but traditional. Before becoming a business owner, Sharon worked as a medical assistant, operated a daycare business, managed a chiropractic practice, and owned a blueberry farm with her husband. Each chapter strengthened her passion for helping people, building relationships, and serving her community.What began as a part-time position at Borr's Shoes eventually led to business ownership alongside Cathy Tubbergen. Today, Sharon helps lead a company known for exceptional customer service and a commitment to helping customers stay active and healthy.Beyond the business, Sharon has dedicated countless hours to community service through local boards and organizations, making a lasting impact on the Grand Haven area through both her leadership and volunteerism.
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Matthew BakkerPresident, Senior Landscape Architect, Landscape Design Services
From Lawn Cuttings to Nearly 200 Employees: The Story of Landscape Design Services | Inspire West Michigan
What does it take to build a landscaping company that has thrived for over 60 years, survived the 2008 recession, navigated COVID, and is now planning for the next 50 years? Matt Baker, President of Landscape Design Services, sits down with us to share the remarkable story of a family business rooted in people, passion, and plants.
From wielding a machete as a teenager to leading a team of nearly 200, Matt opens up about the lessons learned from his father, the heartbreak of layoffs during the recession, the unexpected boom of COVID-era demand, and why relationships — with both clients and team members — are the true foundation of their success. You'll also hear the incredible story of two families, the Bakers and the Martinezes, whose partnership helped shape one of West Michigan's most respected landscape companies.
Whether you're a homeowner curious about transforming your outdoor space, an entrepreneur navigating family business dynamics, or someone who loves a great story about grit and community — this episode is for you.
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⏱️ Timecodes:
00:01:29 – How Matt's father started Landscape Design Services in 1968 and what the early days looked like
00:09:04 – Matt joins the business full time and how the company and client needs have evolved over the decades
00:14:22 – Surviving the 2008 recession: a 37% revenue drop and the hardest decisions Matt has ever made
00:16:41 – How COVID transformed demand for outdoor spaces and the hiring challenges that followed
00:45:13 – Building an inclusive workforce: the Martinez family legacy and the Hispanic Leadership Council
Matthew Bakker is the President of Landscape Design Services, a multi-generational West Michigan company that has been helping shape outdoor spaces across the region since 1968.
What began as a small landscaping operation started by Matt’s father, Larry Bakker, has grown into one of the region’s leading full-service landscape architecture, construction, and maintenance companies. Today, Landscape Design Services serves communities across West Michigan with a team of nearly 200 employees.
Matt’s story is deeply rooted in the business itself. Growing up alongside his brother Jeremy, he spent his early years pruning trees, operating equipment, and working in the garden center long before he could drive. Those hands-on experiences gave him a deep appreciation for both the craft and the people behind the company.
After earning his degree in Landscape Architecture from Michigan State University, Matt returned to the family business, eventually stepping into leadership during one of the company’s most challenging seasons — the economic downturn in 2008. Through resilience, innovation, and a people-first approach, Matt helped guide the company into its next generation of growth.
Under Matt’s leadership, Landscape Design Services continues to evolve beyond traditional landscaping, creating outdoor living environments that blend architecture, design, functionality, and long-term client relationships.
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In this episode of Inspire West Michigan, Josh Bytwerk shares how his faith has shaped his leadership journey and fuels an open invitation for others to step in, serve, and be part of meaningful, life-changing work in the community.
Josh knows that real change doesn’t come from quick fixes—it comes from relationships, dignity, and walking alongside people for the long haul. As Executive Director of Love in Action, he’s helping reshape how our community responds to poverty, creating pathways to stability through compassion and connection.
Timecodes:
00:01:23 – How Josh got connected to Love in Action and what drew him back in 2015
00:02:51 – The staggering growth of food insecurity: from 4,500 to 16,000 annual pantry visits
00:16:07 – Breaking down Love in Action's housing programs and how they help people move from homelessness to independence
00:22:33 – Why isolation is the hidden crisis behind poverty and how connection changes everything
00:42:01 – What's next for Love in Action: student mentoring, housing expansion, and Community Haven
osh Bytwerk serves as the Executive Director of Love in Action of the Tri-Cities, a community-driven nonprofit dedicated to addressing poverty through holistic care and long-term empowerment. With a leadership journey that began as a volunteer, Josh brings a deeply personal and relational approach to his work—focusing not just on meeting immediate needs like food, healthcare, and housing, but on helping individuals move toward stability, dignity, and freedom. Under his leadership, Love in Action has expanded its impact through innovative programs like community co-op markets, financial fitness initiatives, and free medical and dental services.
Josh is passionate about building a connected, compassionate community where transformation happens through relationships as much as resources. He believes the most effective response to poverty is not a handout, but a pathway forward—one rooted in empowerment, collaboration, and genuine care. Through strong partnerships with local churches, businesses, and volunteers, Josh continues to champion a model of service that reflects the heart of the community and creates lasting change for thousands of individuals and families each year.
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n this episode, we sit down with Mark Allen, President of the Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg, to uncover what a modern chamber of commerce truly looks like — and why it matters MORE than ever for local businesses.
Mark shares his journey from volunteer chamber ambassador to chamber president, how his big-market experience in Grand Rapids is transforming the Tri-Cities business community, and the surprising ways the chamber is helping businesses grow, connect, and thrive in today's rapidly changing landscape.
Whether you're a small business owner, an entrepreneur just getting started, or a community leader looking to make an impact — this episode is packed with insights, resources, and inspiration you won't want to miss.
🔑 In this episode, you'll discover:The "hidden" resources your chamber offers that most businesses don't know aboutHow AI is reshaping small business operations right nowWhy in-person networking still wins — and how to do it rightThe programs connecting local youth to careers in West MichiganHow manufacturers are future-proofing their businesses through diversification
⏱️ Timecodes:00:00 – Introduction & Mark Allen's Background04:50 – Pain Points Every Business Faces (Big Market vs. Small Market)09:02 – Hidden Chamber Resources & Government Access21:16 – AI for Small Business: Tips, Cautions & Real Examples51:46 – Keeping Young Talent in West Michigan: The Boomerang Program
Mark Allen is President of The Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg, where he leads strategic initiatives supporting businesses across Northwest Ottawa County. Appointed in 2023, Mark brought more than 14 years of chamber experience from the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, where he served as Senior Director of Business Services, overseeing programs, business outreach, growth initiatives, and member engagement.
A graduate of the Institute for Organizational Management through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Mark is passionate about strengthening business ecosystems and building meaningful connections. Prior to his chamber career, he held leadership roles in hospitality and staffing — and notably once served as a volunteer Ambassador for this very Chamber, making his return as President a full-circle moment.
Get in touch: info@inspirewestmichigan.com
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