Jess for 30

In this episode of #JessFor30, Ron sits down with Michigan State Senator Mark Huizenga, a farm kid from West Michigan who found his way into public service one nudge at a time. Mark shares the story of how a conversation with his insurance guy led to a planning commission seat, a city commission seat, and eventually the Michigan State Senate.   Ron and Mark cover a lot of ground, from the electric...

In this episode of #JessFor30, Ron sits down with Lawrence 'Jake' Sweeney, a four-year starting center for legendary University of Michigan football coach Bo Schembechler, decorated U.S. Border Patrol agent, performance coach, and author of the book You Are Allowed to Try. With a foreword written by 1997 national champion head coach Lloyd Carr, it is one of the most honest and practical reads on d...

In this episode of #JessFor30, Ron sits down with the Honorable Michael J. Riordan, Judge on the Michigan Court of Appeals, and proud Bishop Borges and Michigan State University alumnus. The two dive deep into Mike's Irish roots, his parents' journey from County Kerry to Detroit's west side, and trace his unlikely path from immigration officer and SEC enforcement attorney to 14 years on the bench....

On this episode of Jess for 30, Ron sits down with the President of Vietnam Veterans of America, Paul Palazzolo just before the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Detroit. As they get ready to ride together with the Knights of Equity, they reflect on their shared connections to Ireland, stories from Paul's life and connection with Detroit. Ron also discusses his childhood memories visiting Most Holy Trin...

On this episode of Jess for 30, Ron sits down with Detroit Red Wings legend Darren McCarty just before the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Detroit for a laid-back and meaningful conversation. As they get ready to ride together with the Knights of Equity, they reflect on their shared connections to Ireland, with stories from Darren’s travels and Ron’s family trip he took in June of 2006. Ron also discu...

In this episode at Brighton’s Smokin’ Rock and Blues Festival, Ron sits down with Bryan Bradford, who shares how Veterans Connected has provided over $800,000 in support to veterans who often fall through the cracks of traditional benefit systems. From organizing a suicide prevention march to leading community-driven efforts, Bryan highlights the urgent need for awareness, private funding, and vol...

On this episode of Jess for 30, Ron records live from the Brighton Smokin' Rock-and-Blues Festival with longtime Brighton resident and real estate leader Dan Mulvihill. Their conversation weaves through stories of northern Michigan lakes, fishing traditions, and the environmental challenges facing inland waters. They swap memories of growing up in a different era, when kids filled parks until the...

Today is the Mellow Men’s Super Bowl! Join Ron as he takes to the field of the Big House, where the University of Michigan honors the 7 Historic Mellow Men. With their legacy of excellence, unity, and service to the Michigan community, this tribute celebrates not just their seasons and championships, but their lifelong impact as leaders and makers of change.   00:00 Welcome to The Big House 01:32...

In this episode, Ron is joined by Niko Blakely, a recipient of the Butch Carpenter Endowment Fund. Hear as they discuss the enduring legacy of Butch Carpenter, a University of Michigan legend whose leadership, fearlessness, and commitment to excellence continue to inspire generations. Through the Butch Carpenter Scholarship and the brotherhood of the Mellow Men, his impact lives on, empowering law...

This episode honors the accomplishments and legacy of the Historic Mellow Men of Michigan, seven University of Michigan football legends who built a brotherhood rooted in discipline, service, and shared purpose. From iconic moments on the field to decades of community impact, personal resilience, and educational outreach, their story is a testament to the power of unity, values, and giving back.  ...

This episode honors the accomplishments and legacy of the Historic Mellow Men of Michigan, seven University of Michigan football legends who built a brotherhood rooted in discipline, service, and shared purpose. From iconic moments on the field to decades of community impact, personal resilience, and educational outreach, their story is a testament to the power of unity, values, and giving back. _...

In this episode, Ron sits down with Jim Brandstatter to talk Michigan football, what it was like playing for U of M and legendary coach Bo Schembechler and a lifetime behind the mic. Glenn Doughty of The 7 Mellow Men also joins to talk about being honored. This episode also honors the accomplishments and legacy of the Historic Mellow Men of Michigan, seven University of Michigan football legends w...

In this episode, Ron is joined by Reggie McKenzie, who reflects on the powerful legacy of the “Mellow Men,” Michigan’s trailblazing Black football recruits of 1968, whose success extended far beyond the field. From building lasting friendships and leading community efforts through the Reggie McKenzie Foundation to championing a strong running game philosophy and honoring those who shaped his path,...

In this episode, Ron is joined by Leo Wines, who shares the story behind Ponderosa Ridge Farm Market, a family farm dating back to 1918. He discusses the joys and challenges of running a modern farm, the importance of community support, and his mission to keep local agriculture alive by offering homegrown beef and goods from local vendors, all while preserving a legacy for future generations.   00...

On this episode of Jess for 30, Ron records live from the Brighton Smokin’ Rock-and-Blues Festival with guest Rob Johnson of Wayne Media. The conversation covers community, sports, and the ambitious new project celebrating the Mellow Men, a group of former University of Michigan football players who played under Bo Schembechler. Ron and Rob discuss the honor of a possible recording at Michigan Sta...

This episode honors the accomplishments and legacy of the Historic Mellow Men of Michigan, seven University of Michigan football legends who built a brotherhood rooted in discipline, service, and shared purpose. From iconic moments on the field to decades of community impact, personal resilience, and educational outreach, their story is a testament to the power of unity, values, and giving back.  ...

In this episode, Ron is joined by Doug Brzezinski, who reflects on the lessons that shaped his life, from his Livonia roots and time at Catholic Central to the NFL and beyond. He shares powerful insights on mentorship, faith, and family, offering a look at the values that matter most and his desire to leave a legacy built on gratitude and making a difference.   _____________ The past is worth revi...

In this episode, Ron is joined by Frank Guirlinger, who shares his remarkable journey from building Detroit’s Ford Field to rebuilding his own life after paralysis. Through faith, grit, and a shift to holistic healing, Frank opens up about overcoming opioid addiction, embracing alternative medicine, and pursuing his dream to barefoot water ski again, proving that resilience can turn tragedy into t...

In this episode, Ron and Tony “T Money” Green connect over their shared Detroit roots, reflecting on family, music, and the city’s changing face. From Tony’s journey through the music industry, touring with legends and working with Snoop Dogg, to Ron’s personal story of sobriety and growth, hear a heartfelt tribute to resilience, respect, and the power of community.   _____________ The past is wor...

Yorg Kerasiotis is a multi-talented, social media influencer and music producer from Detroit. He's known for his work with Singers in the Round, a monthly event showcasing singer-songwriters, and his involvement in various music and creative projects in the Detroit area. He is also the guitar player in the Louie Lee Show Band!   ************************************** The past is worth revisiting....

In this fourth and final episode of the Redford Union Series, Ian Iler and Robert Miller discuss with Ron about Redford Union’s young football team, the importance of player development over records, and the vital role of leadership. Hear as they also reflect on Redford’s deep baseball roots, ongoing efforts to revive the sport, and the impact of community involvement and charitable work.   ______...

Jaden Pydyn, a recent Novi Catholic Central graduate, shares his inspiring path to West Point, where he’ll pursue economics while playing football and baseball. From overcoming injury to leading with integrity, Jaden reflects on family, faith, and the future of service in this inspiring conversation. _____________ The past is worth revisiting. Join Ron Jess as he sits down with people from his pas...

In this third episode of the Redford Union Series, Jason Witt, J.D., Redford Union’s Superintendent,  shares about the school’s strong community roots while boldly reimagining the future of education. Hear how he is bringing fresh insight from law and HR, how the district is investing in modern facilities, career tech programs, and project-based learning, all while navigating funding challenges an...

In this episode, Ron is joined by award winning photographer Richard Lim, who shares his journey from the financial world to capturing powerful portraits, inspired by the memory of his father and a deep respect for American veterans. With a wide ranging conversation, Lim reflects on his cultural roots, community impact in Michigan, and how photography became both his healing outlet and gift to oth...

In this second episode of the Redford Union Series, Mike McCrea and Randall Taylor share their journey on what has led them to being at Redford Union. From their experience with being leaders, highlighting the power of mentorship, navigating challenges in special education, to building a strong basketball culture, learn how their stories reveal a deep pride in their school.   _____________ The pas...