🎙️We’re kicking off the New Year with a conversation about intentions, choosing a word for the year, and letting go of the pressure that often comes with resolutions, and goal setting. Kensie, Kelly, and Sandi share their personal words, what they’re hoping to cultivate this year, and why community and local businesses are at the heart of Keys to the Coast.

Topics We Cover:

• Resolutions vs. intentions
• How to choose a word for the year
• Personal & professional goals without pressure
• The future of the Keys to the Coast podcast
• Celebrating community and local businesses

Listener Prompt:
What’s your word for the year? Send it to us or share it on social and tag us — we’d love to cheer you on.

In this episode of Keys to the Coast, Mckensie introduces the newest powerhouse on the Sandi Gentry Team — Kendall Stratton, our new Social Media + Marketing Coordinator. With her beauty, wellness, and marketing background, aesthetic eye, and ability to bring strategy to the chaos, Kendall is already transforming the way we show up online.

Together, Mckensie and Kendall dive into:
✨ Kendall’s journey from the beauty and wellness industry to real estate marketing
✨ How storytelling ties both industries together
✨ The fun (and occasional chaos) of content days
✨ Social media trends to watch in 2026
✨ Why authenticity and community-driven content are the future
✨ A rapid-fire Q&A that reveals their coffee habits, workplace chaos, and more

🔗 Connect with Us

Follow along for coastal living, real estate insights, behind-the-scenes fun, and gorgeous Michigan homes:
Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

⭐️ If you enjoyed the episode…

Leave us a review, share with a friend, and tag us when you’re listening! We love hearing from you.

🎙️ Thanksgiving Special-Turkey Talk- Keys to the Coast Podcast

In this light-hearted episode of Keys to the Coast, the crew gathers around the mic for a warm, funny, and nostalgia-filled conversation that feels just like sitting around the holiday table with friends.

From playful debates over whether the turkey really deserved its national-bird status (sorry, eagle), to swapping stories about their favorite Thanksgiving traditions, the episode is packed with humor and heart.

The hosts also dive into:

🦃 Costco vs. Sam’s Club — the great holiday-prep showdown
☕ Local coffee culture — their go-to spots and newest sips
🏘️ New businesses popping up along the coast — and why they’re excited
🎄 Upcoming events in Grand Haven — what to mark on your holiday calendar
💛 A moment of gratitude — for listeners, local businesses, and the coastal community that makes this place feel like home

It’s an episode full of laughs, community spirit, and the cozy vibes we love about the season. Grab a cup of something warm and join us for this festive Thanksgiving conversation!

In this cozy coffee-chat episode of Keys to the Coast, Kensie, Sandi, and Kelly catch up on life, real estate, and all things West Michigan. They dive into what’s happening in today’s market—from shifting buyer behavior to the reality behind rate changes—while sharing behind-the-scenes stories from their busy fall season.

The trio also highlights their favorite local spots, seasonal traditions, and the charm of West Michigan as the holidays approach. From pumpkin patches to the Sparkle Kickoff in Spring Lake, this episode blends real estate insight with hometown warmth.

A feel-good mix of market knowledge, community love, and festive excitement—perfect for anyone who loves the Lakeshore lifestyle.

🎙️ Show Notes – Episode 12 of Keys to the Coast

Title: Behind the Scenes of Real Estate Title with Julio Ramos

When it comes to buying or selling a home, one step often feels like a mystery: title. What is it? Why do you need it? And what happens if there’s an issue?

In this episode, Kensie sits down with Julio Ramos, Title Officer with Chicago Title, to demystify the world of real estate title. Julio shares his personal journey into the industry, explains what title really means, and answers some of the most frequently asked questions from buyers and sellers.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Julio’s story and how he became a Title Officer
• What real estate title is and why it matters
• The difference between title and title insurance
• Common title issues that can delay closings—and how to avoid them
• FAQs: liens, unpaid taxes, multiple owners, and more
• Pro tips for making your transaction smoother

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this conversation will give you the knowledge and confidence you need when it comes to title.

📲 Connect with Julio and Chicago Title julioramos@ctt.com

🎙️ Episode 10 – “New Chapters & Community Roots with Bill Van Lopik”

Keys to the Coast Podcast | Hosted by Mckensie Gentry

🔑 Episode Overview:

In this episode, Mckensie sits down with someone who embodies what it means to serve — both in real estate and in life. Meet Bill Van Lopik: a former client turned real estate agent, a community leader, and a perfect example that it’s never too late to start something new.

After a successful career and retirement, Bill chose to dive into the world of real estate and is now a licensed agent on the Sandi Gentry Team. Beyond buying and selling homes, Bill stays deeply connected to the Grand Haven and lakeshore communities through his involvement in various boards, councils, and service initiatives.

Whether you're considering a new chapter in your career or you're just curious about how community and real estate intertwine, this episode will leave you inspired.

💬 What We Talk About:

• Bill’s professional journey before real estate
• What inspired him to start a new chapter after retirement
• His experience transitioning from client to agent
• The role of community involvement in real estate
• Advice for others thinking about making a late-career switch
• Why West Michigan is such a special place to serve

📍 Favorite Quote from the Episode:

"You’re never too old to start something new — especially when that something connects you deeper to your community." – Bill Van Lopik

📲 Connect with Us:

Follow along for more inspiring interviews and local highlights!
Instagram: @thesandigentryteam

In this episode, Mckensie sits down with renowned interior designer Kristin McNeil, founder of Anne Rae Designs. With features in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, The NY Times, and more, Kristin has made her mark across the country — and now calls West Michigan home.

Together, they talk about:
✨ Kristin’s journey into design (and her move from California to Grand Haven)
✨ The mission and growth of Anne Rae Designs
✨ Behind-the-scenes of her personal home remodel downtown Grand Haven
✨ Current design trends she’s loving (and the ones she’s leaving behind)
✨ How to elevate your home, even on a budget
✨ Plus… her favorite paint color, local shops, and a few rapid-fire fun facts

Whether you're looking for design inspiration or dreaming up your next renovation, this episode will leave you full of ideas and ready to bring beauty and intention to your space.

🎧 Listen now and follow Kristin’s work at @anneraedesigns or annerae.com

This week on Keys to the Coast, we’re diving into the magic that is Coast Guard Festival—and what a week it was! From hosting our 400+ person client appreciation party, to handing out 7,000 t-shirts at the parade, to sponsoring the street dance with Brena… our team was all in.

Join Kensie and Sandi as they relive their favorite moments of the week—Sandi’s unforgettable ride on the Coast Guard ship, the joy of connecting with our community, and the incredible pride we feel calling Grand Haven Coast Guard City, USA.

This episode is packed with:

• Community highlights and behind-the-scenes stories
• Why Coast Guard Festival is more than just an event—it’s a tradition
• Heartfelt appreciation for those who serve in the U.S. Coast Guard
• And a huge THANK YOU to everyone who celebrated with us

🎙️ Tune in now and relive the magic of the festival with us.