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"The West Michigan Weekend Podcast with Phil Tower is a production of WOOD Radio and iHeartRadio in West Michigan. Stay connected with the people, places, and events shaping our community...
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"The West Michigan Weekend Podcast with Phil Tower is a production of WOOD Radio and iHeartRadio in West Michigan.
Stay connected with the people, places, and events shaping our community and our great state by subscribing wherever you get your podcasts. We'd love your feedback as well, so please consider leaving us a review!
For more of our episodes, find us here, or find us on the iHeartRadio app. Thanks for listening!"
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Stay connected with the people, places, and events shaping our community and our great state by subscribing wherever you get your podcasts. We'd love your feedback as well, so please consider leaving us a review!
For more of our episodes, find us here, or find us on the iHeartRadio app. Thanks for listening!"
West Michigan Weekend (A Public Affairs Program from iHeartradio)
West Michigan Weekend (A Public Affairs Program from iHeartradio)
WOOD RadioEpisodios & Posts
Episodios
Posts
Transcrito
7 FEB. 2026 · In this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes Andy Balaskovitz, Managing Editor of https://www.crainsgrandrapids.com/ for a look at the biggest business stories shaping West Michigan in 2025—and what should local leaders, entrepreneurs, and residents be watching in 2026 and beyond?
We dig into major development projects like the Fulton & Market “three towers” proposal and the uncertain future of https://www.miplace.org/programs/transformational-brownfield-plans/, along with record cannabis sales as the industry prepares for its next phase.
Andy also breaks down Grand Rapids’ $4.3 million placemaking grant to reimagine the Monroe North corridor, major corporate sales involving SpartanNash, Steelcase, and WK Kellogg, and the growing debate around data centers in West Michigan.
The discussion rounds out with a look at agriculture challenges tied to labor and input costs, plus downtown office-to-housing conversions—including the 111 Lyon project and redevelopment plans for the historic Ledyard building.
Online: https://www.crainsgrandrapids.com/
Transcrito
3 FEB. 2026 · In this segment, host Phil Tower welcomes https://www.mikameyers.com/attorneys/benjamin-e-anema/
Data centers are the backbone of our digital lives, but as they rapidly proliferate across Michigan, they are becoming flashpoints for local communities. Driven by the explosive growth of AI, developers are eyeing the Great Lakes State for its cooling climate and tax incentives. However, projects in places like Lowell Township and Sparta are facing intense scrutiny over environmental impacts and energy costs.
Ben shares some helpful information on the complex legal and regulatory landscape of Michigan’s data center boom.
Some things we learned in the conversation with Ben:
- Michigan currently hosts nearly 60 data centers, including nine in Grand Rapids. What specific geographic or infrastructure advantages make our state a primary target for these massive AI-driven developments?
- We’ve seen significant resident opposition in Lowell Township recently. Ben discusses the challenges municipalities face when a developer proposes a large-scale data center.
- The environmental impact of data centers. Beyond energy, data centers require immense cooling, often involving significant water usage. What legal frameworks or local zoning ordinances are currently in place to protect Michigan’s natural resources from this high demand?
- Resources: https://Source/cubofmichigan.org/blog/new-standards-set-for-data-center-power-agreements-in-consumers-energy-service-territory/.
- Resource: https://Link/www.woodtv.com/news/kent-county/why-michigan-is-a-hot-spot-for-data-center-development/#:~:text=Michigan%20is%20an%20ideal%20place,exemptions%20to%20bring%20them%20here
- https://Link/www.wzzm13.com/article/news/local/city-of-lowell-suspends-participation-in-potential-project-new-data-center/69-6229c361-f9a5-4525-b65c-b7f64ca3db89(12-12-25)
Transcrito
1 FEB. 2026 · In this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes https://uofmhealthwest.org/doctors/braden-engstrom/, a board-certified pediatrician at UM Health-West Hudsonville Pediatrics.
In early January, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced an unprecedented overhaul of the childhood vaccine schedule that recommends fewer shots to all children. Under the change — effective immediately — the vaccine schedule will more closely resemble Denmark’s, recommending all children get vaccines for 11 diseases, compared with the 18 previously on the schedule.
Health and Human Services Department officials said these changes to the vaccination schedule were meant to restore trust in public health that spilled over from the Covid pandemic.
Notable: The childhood vaccine schedule is a set of recommendations on the timing of vaccinations. It’s not a mandate; instead, it’s used to guide what vaccines are covered by insurance and are needed to attend day care centers and public schools. States determine which vaccines are required for school attendance and have historically relied on the https://www.cdc.gov/ schedule. It is usually reviewed annually by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and updated based on the latest scientific evidence.
In December of 2025, the CDC rolled back a decades-long recommendation that all newborns get their first doses of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours — a move experts said could lead to a resurgence of infections.
Online resource: https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/rfk-jr-vaccines-overhaul-kids-denmark-fewer-childhood-shots-rcna250055
Online resource: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/13/health/vaccine-schedule-children-kennedy.html
Transcrito
24 ENE. 2026 · Guest Segment 1: On this episode of iHeartradio’s West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes Dr. Emerson Eggerichs, New York Times bestselling author of the landmark relationship book Love & Respect, to discuss his just-released new book, Lightbulb Moments in Marriage: 12 Biblical Perspectives for Successful and Satisfied Couples (Thomas Nelson).
Dr. Eggerichs introduces the idea that lasting change in marriage rarely comes from dramatic breakthroughs, but from small, biblically grounded “lightbulb moments”—powerful realizations that quietly reshape how couples think, respond, and love. Many of these insights come directly from real-life stories shared with him by couples who experienced sudden clarity in the middle of everyday conflict, disappointment, or misunderstanding.
In our conversation, we explore how couples can learn to recognize these lightbulb moments, why rooting your identity in Christ—rather than a spouse’s approval or mood—is foundational to a healthy marriage, and how cultural myths like “happy wife, happy life” often undermine true intimacy.
We also dive into communication—not just talking more, but truly hearing one another—along with the importance of self-awareness, emotional responsibility.
In his terrific new book, he also helps us understand the powerful principle of “My response is my responsibility.” Whether you’re newly married, decades in, or simply seeking a more biblical and realistic vision for marriage, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and practical hope.
Get the new book: Love & Respect | Lightbulb Moments in Marriage: 12 Biblical Perspectives for Successful and Satisfied Couples
Available now for pre-order through https://www.amazon.com/Lightbulb-Moments-Marriage-Perspectives-Successful/dp/1400352169, https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lightbulb-moments-in-marriage-emerson-eggerichs/1147732372, and major booksellers.
More Resources:
• https://www.thomasnelson.com/9781400352197/lightbulb-moments-in-marriage/
• https://www.loveandrespect.com
• https://www.instagram.com/loverespectinc/
Transcrito
24 ENE. 2026 · Guest Segment 2: Dan McMinn, Executive Director, Great Lakes Learning Academy (GLLA) Dan joined host Phil Tower for a conversation about Great Lakes Learning Academy(GLLA), a tuition-free, online public school serving students statewide in Michigan. Great Lakes Learning Academy offers digital access for all Michigan students.
Geographically, Great Lakes Learning Academy serves students in the Detroit Metro area, as well as the Kalamazoo–Battle Creek, Grand Rapids, and Tri-County areas.
Dan said that Great Lakes Learning Academy is popular among families seeking a flexible, accredited public-school option, and for parents of students who may not thrive in a traditional classroom setting.
Learn more: https://www.connectionsacademy.com/great-lakes-learning-academy/
Transcrito
17 ENE. 2026 · In this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes back guest Dawn Baker, the Show Manager for the Michigan International Auto Show. Dawn joined the program for a preview of one of the largest displays of new and exotic cars in the Midwest. The 28th Annual Michigan International Auto Show, which rolls into DeVos Place January 29-February 1, 2026, offers the best opportunity to view hundreds of vehicles from over 30 global manufacturers, including a variety of trucks, SUVs, electrics, and performance vehicles.
Gentex Corporation returns as the presenting sponsor of the 28th Annual Michigan International Auto Show, and they’re once again bringing the world-renowned Ringbrothers along for the ride. This year, Ringbrothers presents its custom 1971 Aston Martin DBS OCTAVIA.
Other show features include:
Electric Avenue: Electric Avenue display returns to Hall C with a line-up of fully EV vehicles.
Million Dollar Motorway: A collection of performance and exotic vehicles with an emphasis on Aston Martin.
After Market Features: Gas Pedal Customs and Auto Image.
More info at: https://showspan.com/mas/
Transcrito
17 ENE. 2026 · In this episode of West Michigan weekend, host Phil Tower speaks with Don Saldia, Division Manager, https://www.kalcounty.gov/243/Area-Agency-on-Aging, Health & Community Services.
Don joined us to discuss a powerful new resource for identifying caregiving help in Michigan.
https://www.micaregiverconnection.com/ is designed as a starting point for finding real, local caregiving support. The site is specifically designed for persons who are helping a parent, partner, or friend. Mi Caregiver Connection is comprised of the 16 https://www.micaregiverconnection.com/find-your-local-center in Michigan.
There are an estimated 63 million caregivers in the U.S., paid or unpaid, who provide care for people who rely on them for basic needs. The caregiving workforce is under increasing strain. Americans are living longer, and the growing number of people needing care is at odds with the limited resources available to provide it.
Online: https://www.micaregiverconnection.com/
See thehttps://publichealth.jhu.edu/2025/what-is-the-caregiver-crisis:
Transcrito
16 ENE. 2026 · In this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes back Michael Wildschut, director of the January Series at Calvin University.
Michael joins the program for a preview of the 2026 January Series, presented by and hosted at Calvin University.
For nearly 40 years, people have been showing up from all walks of life, ready to be challenged, enlightened, and connected to something far beyond themselves.
This year’s lineup of speakers will no doubt challenge and enlighten, and inspire attendees both in person and online.
By promoting education, civic engagement, and open inquiry, The January Series at Calvin University has been growing a community of lifelong learners who don’t want to be passive observers but active participants in creating a better, more inspired, more inclusive world.
This year's January Series begins on Monday, January 19, and runs through Friday, January 30th.
The January Series lectures are available to watch live in person or on-demand the day of the event.
Online: https://calvin.edu/january-series
Transcrito
16 ENE. 2026 · In this episode host Phil Tower welcomes Christy Buck, CEO and Founder of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, joins host Phil Tower to discuss the national expansion of the life-saving "Be Nice" program.
Be Nice originally began as a school-based initiative, but now, thanks to some incredible connections, Christy has developed throughout West Michigan and far beyond. Be Nice has now reached the National Football League, recently being adopted by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Jaguars partnered with Be Nice as part of an expanded focus on staff well-being and psychological safety within their organization.
Christy joined us to talk about the importance of noticing changes in mental health and the powerful impact that the Be Nice program can have everywhere, including the National Football League.
Online Resources:
https://www.benice.org/
https://www.jaguars.com/video/k000550-jacksonville-jaguars-partner-with-the-be-nice-foundation
Be Nice encourages you to get help right now if you are thinking of harming yourself or if you are in emotional distress. Please reach out.
Texting "nice" to 741741 (Crisis Text Line) is a good way to cool down and get some positive coping mechanisms to manage how you're feeling right now.
Transcrito
3 ENE. 2026 · ArtPrize 2025 has officially wrapped, leaving a lasting impression throughout downtown Grand Rapids.
In this episode of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower welcomes back Catlin Whitington, Executive Director of ArtPrize, to reflect on the success of this year’s international art competition and its evolving role in our community.
Inside This Episode, we discuss:
Celebrating the Winners: We discuss the $100,000 Grand Prize winner who captivated both the public voters and the juried art judges.
https://www.artprize.org/2025-winners
https://www.artprize.org/2025-winners an evocative textile installation by the artistic duo Second Vibess (Camille Steverson and Kaitlynn Fitzpatrick).
The Evolution of ArtPrize: Catlin shares how the event has matured, becoming a more decentralized, global stage for art, and still maintaining the accessibility factor for artists from all walks of life.
The crowds are back: ArtPrize 2025 saw crowds that were more in line with the pre-COVID numbers that the event had drawn before.
Digital Engagement: A look at how the public interacted with the art this year through QR codes and the impact of digital voting on the visitor experience.
Economic & Cultural Impact: Beyond the galleries and venues, we explore what ArtPrize means for West Michigan’s economy and how it continues to shape Grand Rapids' identity on a global scale. Catlin shared that the economic impact of ArtPrize for 2025 exceeded $80 million.
ArtPrize Runs On Donor Support: donations keep this world-class event free and accessible to all. Donations also help provide $200,000 in grants to artists, as well as access for thousands of Michigan students experiencing ArtPrize this year. https://www.artprize.org/donate
ArtPrize 2026 planning is underway. The next event is September 17 through October 3, 2026.
More Online: https://www.artprize.org/
"The West Michigan Weekend Podcast with Phil Tower is a production of WOOD Radio and iHeartRadio in West Michigan. Stay connected with the people, places, and events shaping our community...
mostra más
"The West Michigan Weekend Podcast with Phil Tower is a production of WOOD Radio and iHeartRadio in West Michigan.
Stay connected with the people, places, and events shaping our community and our great state by subscribing wherever you get your podcasts. We'd love your feedback as well, so please consider leaving us a review!
For more of our episodes, find us here, or find us on the iHeartRadio app. Thanks for listening!"
mostra menos
Stay connected with the people, places, and events shaping our community and our great state by subscribing wherever you get your podcasts. We'd love your feedback as well, so please consider leaving us a review!
For more of our episodes, find us here, or find us on the iHeartRadio app. Thanks for listening!"
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