Muskegon Rising (a service of the Muskegon Rotary Club) takes on “economics you can actually use” as host DJ Hilson welcomes Matt Farrar, Muskegon County’s Deputy County Administrator, for a plain-spoken conversation about how the economy works—globally and right here at home. From tariffs and “economic indicators” to housing demand, interest rates, and why uncertainty can slow investment, this episode connects the headlines to real life in Muskegon County and explains why smart, steady economic development can be good for everybody.

In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host DJ Hilson sits down with Muskegon High School sophomore Neve McGinn to explore her journey into the Rotary Youth Exchange program and her upcoming year studying abroad in Denmark. Neve shares how the rigorous selection process, cultural flexibility, and personal growth opportunities are shaping her future, including her passion for culinary arts and global learning. This inspiring conversation highlights how Rotary empowers young people to become confident global citizens while representing Muskegon County on the world stage.

In this episode of Muskegon Rising, hosts DJ Hilson and John Gale explore how Muskegon County is strengthening school safety through preparation, partnership, and proactive leadership. Gale, a retired Norton Shores Police Chief and current Safety & Security Liaison for the Muskegon Area ISD, explains how law enforcement, educators, and administrators work together to prevent threats, respond effectively to emergencies, and keep students safe. The conversation covers active-shooter training, threat assessment teams, common safety language, reunification planning, and the role parents and students play in reporting concerns responsibly. This insightful discussion highlights why Muskegon County is leading the way in coordinated, community-driven school safety.

In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike talks with Bill Cooper, Vice President of Operations at La Colombe in Norton Shores, about the company’s major expansion, growing workforce, and deep commitment to Muskegon County. Cooper shares how La Colombe and parent company Chobani are investing in up to 340 new jobs, a 200,000-square-foot facility expansion, local talent development, school partnerships, food access programs, and community impact initiatives that strengthen families, students, and the regional economy. This conversation highlights how purpose-driven business, manufacturing growth, and community investment are helping shape Muskegon’s future.

In this inspiring episode of Muskegon Rising, host DJ Hilson sits down with Benika Longmire of Muskegon Public Schools to explore how early career pathways, community partnerships, and hands-on learning are shaping the future of local students. From the innovative “Future of You” conference to real-world internships and career academies, this conversation highlights how education, workforce development, and community collaboration are preparing young people for meaningful careers right here in Muskegon County. A must-watch for students, parents, educators, and community leaders alike.

In this flavorful episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike sits down with Tim Taylor of Hamburger Mikey to explore how a local burger joint became one of West Michigan’s most recognizable and community-driven brands. From crafting legendary Burgers of the Month and hand-cut fries to sourcing locally, creating jobs, and giving back through innovative community programs, Tim shares the passion, creativity, and heart behind a true Muskegon success story. Discover how great food, great people, and deep local roots are helping put Muskegon on the culinary map.

In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike sits down with Meredith Smillie of Bethany Christian Services to explore how strengthening families directly supports student success, workforce stability, and economic growth in West Michigan. The conversation highlights Bethany’s work in foster care, adoption, behavioral health, and refugee services—and how flexible donor support helps families overcome barriers like transportation, childcare, and housing. Learn how family stability fuels educational outcomes, why human services careers are in high demand, and how nonprofits like Bethany partner across Muskegon County to build a stronger, more resilient local economy. Produced by Muskegon Rising, a service of the Muskegon Rotary Club

In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike sits down with Sharlene Schineldecker, CEO of the Cherette Group, to explore the vision, strategy, and community collaboration behind one of Muskegon County’s most transformative developments, including the Harvey Street corridor project and the arrival of Costco. Schineldecker details how decades of local investment, data-driven site selection, infrastructure planning, and strong partnerships with Fruitport Township, Norton Shores, and Muskegon County enabled a former golf course to become a mixed-use hub featuring Class-A apartments, townhomes, single-family housing, and more than 200 new jobs. The conversation also demystifies tax increment financing, affordable housing economics, and the long-term economic impact of development that prioritizes local labor, sustainable growth, and community needs—underscoring why Muskegon County is emerging as a model for cooperative economic development on Michigan’s lakeshore.