Keep Up with Liz & Kim

For the final episode of Season 2, Liz & Kim sit down with Mark Custer from Worklab of Ada. Mark shares his experiences as an entrepreneur and the vision behind Worklab, a modern coworking space designed to inspire productivity, collaboration, and community right here in Ada. From flexible workspaces to fostering connections among local professionals, Mark gives us an inside look at how Workla...

In this episode, Liz & Kim sit down with Dr. Samy Salhadar, owner of Ada Family Dentistry. Samy shares his journey in dentistry, why creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for patients matters most, and how his practice is rooted in caring for the whole community. It’s a thoughtful conversation about passion for people, building relationships, and the smile-worthy rewards of running...

In this stylish and spirited episode, Liz & Kim chat with Gina VanTimmeren, the fashion-forward force behind Gina’s Boutique in Ada. Gina shares how she turned her passion for fashion into a thriving business and how she keeps things fresh and fun for her customers. From ‘why Ada’ to small business hustle, this episode is full of personality, heart, and plenty of inspiration!

Keep Up with Liz & Kim – Featuring Dave Echelbarger & Matt Fegan from EHTC In this episode, Liz & Kim sit down with Dave Echelbarger, Managing Partner, and Matt Fegan, Valuation Services Partner, at EHTC - a full-service CPA firm serving West Michigan. From strategic guidance to building lasting client relationships, Matt and Dave share insights into what sets EHTC apart—and why accoun...

In this episode, Liz & Kim talk with Diane Smith, the powerhouse behind Revolve Cycle Studio in Ada. As an independent female business owner, Diane shares what it’s like to build a business from the ground up, create a welcoming fitness community, and inspire others to keep moving—on and off the bike. Tune in for an energizing conversation about passion, perseverance, and pedaling toward your...

In this episode, Liz & Kim sit down with Mike and Jason Veenstra of Veenstra’s Garage—an Ada family business with a century of service under its belt. As they gear up to celebrate 100 years in 2025 and take on the role of Grand Marshals in this year’s July 4th parade, the Veenstras share stories of legacy, community, and what it means to keep a business running strong across generations. It’s...

In this episode, Liz & Kim chat with Samantha Baker, owner of The Artisan Fox, Ada’s charming flower and gift shop. Samantha shares how her love of flowers, creativity, and community inspired her to open The Artisan Fox, and how she’s bringing a little extra beauty and joy to the village. From being an entrepreneur, to the business name origin story, to running a small business with heart, thi...

This week, Liz & Kim catch up with Loren Crandell, the CEO of Baton Collective, to hear all about how his team is building connections, strategizing growth and helping to shape the future of Ada. Loren shares the story behind Baton, what makes a strong community, and why he’s so excited about the future of local business. It's a conversation you won’t want to miss—whether you're an entrepreneu...

We’re serving up a delicious rewind! In this special “Best of” episode, Liz & Kim revisit some of the most flavorful moments from our conversations with Ada’s restaurant owners from Seasons 1 and 2. From behind-the-scenes stories to passion-fueled journeys, you’ll hear the heart, hustle, and humor that make these local spots more than just great places to eat. Whether you’re hungry for inspira...

Meet two long-time employees of Godwin Ada Village Hardware – a staple in Ada village. Bob Weiland has been with the company for 38 years and Brandon Gessler has worked at the Ada location for 14 years. Both Bob and Brandon exemplify Godwin’s commitment to top-rate service and support for the local community. Join us in learning more about Bob and Brandon and the secret to Godwin’s 70 year success...

We were excited to have Christine Gilbertson, one of the owners of Tip Toes Children's Boutique, join us for this episode of Keep Up With Liz & Kim. Take a listen to learn more about Christine, the store and the joys and challenges of running a family-owned small business.

We have a Wine Bar coming to Ada - The Lark! Listen to this episode of Keep Up with Liz & Kim to meet May Graceffa, owner of The Lark, and to get the inside scope!

In this episode, we sit down with Rachel Stadt, Executive Director of Brody's Be Cafe, a nonprofit coffee shop dedicated to creating community impact beyond just serving great coffee. Join us as we explore how they blend social entrepreneurship with a passion for making a difference. Discover the challenges and triumphs of running a nonprofit business and the inspiring stories that fuel their miss...

Get the inside scoop on what is happening in the Ada Parks and the new programming planned for 2025. Wesley Deason, Director of Parks & Recreation for Ada Township, joins us on Keep Up With Liz & Kim to chat about his role, future plans for the parks in Ada - including the new Ada Bridge Park and the programming his department offers for the community.

Meet Julie Packard, owner of Pursuit Paper & Gifts in Ada, MI. Julie acquired the store earlier this year and has made it her own with new product lines, gifts for anyone on your list and fun classes to learn a new skill. Enjoy the conversation!

Chief Dave Murray is a long-time member of the Ada Community as well as the Ada Fire Department. He is one of our favorite people to collaborate with for events! Listen to this episode of Keep Up With Liz & Kim to learn more about Dave and his journey from firefighter to chief - with a few anecdotes and memories mixed in.

What a pleasure it was to sit down with Paul Berglund, Owner of Myrth Restaurant in Ada. Learn more about Paul's journey to opening Myrth, why he choose to specialize in pizza and pasta and how the staff chooses new specialty drinks to feature.

Liz and Kim enjoyed the opportunity to sit down with Scott Ninemeier, a Regional Manager with Kent District Library responsible for the East Grand Rapids branch, and the Amy Van Andel branch here in Ada. The conversation covers Scott's role at the library, how libraries play a vital role in the community and of course - the perfect Saturday in Ada!

Liz & Kim are excited to be back for Season 2 of Keep Up With Liz & Kim! The season kicks off with a dynamic interview with Becky Jones, General Manager of the Ada Hotel. Listen to hear how Becky's career has unfolded and why she is thrilled to be involved with this incredible new landmark in Ada.

Vonnie Woodrick, Founder of i understand, is a social change agent, author, speaker, advocate for mental health awareness and so much more! Check out our conversation with Vonnie on the final episode of Season 1 of Keep Up With Liz & Kim. The podcast also includes information on upcoming events in Ada.

The Buchanan Law Firm specializes in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. Join us for a conversation with Rob Buchanan and Leslie Caliguri to hear the passion for their work, how they create cultural in the office, why they chose Ada and how they can serve you as a concierge firm!

Ron Cook started his career with a degree in Political Science and working in higher education. Several career twists and turns led him to new industries and even took him overseas to Europe. After returning to West Michigan, he took on a new challenge - restaurant owner! Learn more about Ron, his journey and how he and his wife created Nonna's: The Trattoria - an Ada favorite!

Christina Perez is a successful local business women who owns Siren & Proper. We had a a fun time talking with her about how she started her business, the challenges of owning a small business and balancing it all! We share updates on the new businesses in Ada and upcoming events. Thanks for listening!

Race competitor to co-owner of the company that owns the largest triathlon events in Michigan. Join us for an engaging conversation with Jon Conkling from Tris4Health - parent company of the Grand Rapids Triathlon held in Ada Village.

There is a good chance you have seen or met this episode's guest, Kate Chase, in Ada Village. Kate is our local Community Policing Officer. She grew up in the area and she loves spending time in Ada - both in and out of uniform! We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did!