Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve
69 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 months ago - ★★★★★ - 14 ratingsA podcast you didn't know you needed— Highly experimental in tone and content, Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve is a podcast about people living life in the way they know best— as themselves. Throwing caution to the wind, Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve approaches conversation in an honest and spontaneous way, in hopes of providing a deeper insight into what makes people uniquely unique, all while revealing the heart, soul, and goofier side of being a human.
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Episodes
Socially Influential with Austin and Max!
February 21, 2024 13:00 - 1 hour - 53.7 MBNetworking and contributing to your community are the some of the most important aspects of working in today’s business world— and it’s a lesson not everyone hears. In this episode of Absolute B.S., we speak to Austin Reynolds and Max Rispler, two young entrepreneurs doing all they can to leave a mark on the city they work in! Through late nights, bottle service, and a loose grasp of social media, it looks like it’s working. Make some tacos and give a listen.
Leggo Explore the World
January 24, 2024 15:00 - 1 hour - 51 MBIt’s been a few... hundred... months.... But we’re back in the studio with our next guest! Featuring a storied career and trusted voice in the news, AND a major focus on health and wellness, Val Lego is now ready to take those talents in media to the next opportunity! Join us as we talk through the B.S. of switching careers later in life, the joys of trying to keep up with technology, and whether or not there’s something more "super than natural" going on just beyond our understanding of t...
Philanthro-what? with Erik Wolenberg!
June 30, 2023 12:00 - 1 hour - 51.9 MBThis time on Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve, we invite Erik Wolenberg, Executive Director of the Hope Network Foundation to our table. Through extremely self-deprecating humor we take a look into the world of Philanthropy— what thank means, why it is a thing, and how we should go about doing it locally. There’s that, an intention of starting a Kiss-Club in Grand Rapids, how we’re turning into our own fathers and the real importance of updating your Facebook profile. Have a stick of ...
Becoming a Communication Master with Craig Clark!
May 17, 2023 13:00 - 1 hour - 43.2 MBThis episode of Absolute BS with Brad and Steve, we are joined by the formidable Craig Clark of Clark Communications! A mainstay in corporate and private PR messaging and problem solving, Craig lends his spin on GR’s PR scene, where it’s going and where it’s been, also sharing humorous antics from his youth and the last time he threw up in public. It’s the kind of stuff you need to hear, so get back to the knitting and listen up.
Show us the money, Paige Afendoulis!
March 08, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 46.6 MBMoney! Some consider it, some don’t. Some have it. Some won’t. Listen in as we talk with Paige Afendoulis, a financial guru, a celebrated author, and succession planning consultant bringing her experience in family money management to our studio. We open her book of thoughts for children and adults alike on the importance of planning, investing, and managing personal finance. It starts way before you think it should, so grab a notebook and listen up!
Oo la la! Une Conversation avec Sheila VanZile!
January 11, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 50.2 MBBusiness executive, exotic homeowner, and now celebrated author-our next guest takes us through a personal journey, one of loss, acceptance, forgiveness, and eventual transformation. On this episode we talk to the indomitable Sheila VanZile, and gain perspective on using art to reconcile personal loss and the awakening to the promise of tomorrow. We also work our way through dumb things too. Grab some French Fries and listen up.
420 Realness with Sarah Tupper
December 08, 2022 15:00 - 1 hour - 48.1 MBWhether you're canna-curious or canna-confident, you can always rely on our next guest to give you the 420 on what exactly you need to do to put together a personalized package to elevate your experience. We’re talking to Sarah Tupper, founder of Sarah Jane, a women-empowered, cannabis brand. The world of marijuana is much more complex than most believe, and Sarah walks us through that carefully. And of course, we talk a lot of B.S. Grab some snacks and have a listen.
Nothing but Sh!t with Diane Teall Evans!
November 09, 2022 16:00 - 1 hour - 51.3 MBSometimes a pairing comes along that works just too well. We talk a lot of B.S. over here at ABS. Our guest this week talks a lot about…just S. This episode we are joined by Diane Teall Evans, Nutritional therapist and founder of DITEA Wellness, providing nutritional therapy programming for the betterment of women’s -gut health, energy, hormones, and skin. She’s also co-host of the educational podcast Get Your S#!? Together discussing dietary and lifestyle issues. We cover entrepreneuria...
Desde Mexico con Amor: Monica Mendez!
October 19, 2022 14:00 - 1 hour - 52.1 MBOn this episode of Absolute BS we talk with Monica Mendez, an unapologetic force of nature, leading the GR Chamber’s Talent and Leadership Program. We go over it all-her exodus from Mexico, her love for sappy movies, Steve’s terrible ability to speak Spanish, and we hear, quite possibly, the most transparent, embarrassing, and human story we’ve been told from a guest.
These Two Guys Set Out to Change the Medical Industry
September 28, 2022 15:00 - 1 hour - 53.6 MBOn this episode of Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve, we get to talk to two paragons of the science world. One guy is redefining the methods to identify and eradicate cancer— the other is keeping the operation running smoothly. Meet Anthony Chang and Chad Bassett! Join us for that story, as well as finding out what scientists do in their spare time, how martial arts influences critical thought, and why the good doctor always points to the camera in photographs!
Double Trouble with Holly & Stephanie
August 10, 2022 14:00 - 1 hour - 46.5 MBFor this episode of Absolute BS with Brad and Steve, we set the studio on fire with the unadulterated energy and enthusiasm brought to the room. Hang on, as we dive into the minds of Stephanie Andrews and Holly Visser; two besties driving much of the good coming out of the Grand Rapids Public School systems. Join us as we discuss the organization’s driving mission to educate, the possible benefits of exercise, why flora is better than fauna, and other eye-opening topics. Get a cocktail for...
He Ain't Your Average HR Rep: Mike Parnacott
July 27, 2022 14:00 - 59 minutes - 41 MBAfter a few weeks out doing summer stuff, we’re back in the studio with another episode. This time we’re speaking with the Vice President of Business Development at the HR Collaborative, Mike Parnacott. Join us as we learn why HR is not as bad as we all think it is, why working in food service is more fun than retail, and when it’s the appropriate time to let your parents know about all times you lied to them when you were younger.
Guess Who's Back, Back Again: Krista!
June 01, 2022 13:00 - 55 minutes - 38.4 MBThey say the second time is even better, and after being on our very first episode of Absolute BS with Brad and Steve, we felt we owed our guest another shot. We’re happy to have back Krista Paulin, Vice President of Marketing and Community Affairs for Huntington Bank West Michigan. Join us for a lively conversation about hipsters, the elderly, the damage caused by cell phones, and making relationships work when the world is full of disease. Go rake your yard and give a listen.
Gettin' Uncomfy with Anna
April 20, 2022 13:00 - 57 minutes - 39.7 MBIt takes a lot to rattle Brad’s cage, but in this episode, it happens as we interview Partner and COO of Failure Lab, Anna Baeten! Join us as we talk about the upside of failing, what it means to be Asian in America, and why it’s not a good idea to let Steve write Brad’s questions for the guest!
Special LIVE Episode: The Razzle Dazzle of Trino
April 06, 2022 14:00 - 52 minutes - 36.2 MBThis time we did it live! With real people watching! Listen into the magical sounds of LaughFest 2022 as we interview our next guest Trino, the comedy magician. His routine co-mingles comedy and theatrical feats, giving audience and hosts alike an energetic and thoroughly modern take on the ancient art of illusion. Then there’s the hair! He’s been seen on Fox, The Verge, CW Network, and ABC as well as a guest act on the Masters of Illusion tour. Do magician’s have interesting things to s...
It Ain't Easy Bein' a Boss
February 24, 2022 15:00 - 1 hour - 43.9 MBThis time on Absolute BS with Brad and Steve, we’re joined by author, entrepreneur, and whiskey-drinking creator of GoodFellows Creative, Marissa Callie Fellows! Join us as we travel through what starting a business in a pandemic looks like and the mental taxation it can have on yourself and your relationships. It ain’t easy being 30 in today’s world, but Marissa is making the best of it. Bring us along on your walk and listen in.
Comedic Grief Relief with Zack Berends
February 10, 2022 16:00 - 1 hour - 41.7 MBIt’s not easy pulling off a festival of comedy during a pandemic, but our next guest Zack Berends is doing it with some style. As the events and festival manager for Gilda’s Laughfest, Zack is still finding the humor in all things. We debate, discussion, and dialogue about why comedy that challenges you is a necessary evil. Practice some #SelfCare and give a listen as we discuss the healing power of laughter.
The 'V' Word with Erin Fisk
January 19, 2022 15:00 - 1 hour - 41.5 MBIt’s time to get vulnerable. On this episode of Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve, we’re joined by consultant, therapist, ally, and all-around advocate of 'being kind', Erin Fisk. It’s time for the eye-opening take on race and gender equality in West Michigan you always knew we were going to have. Go iron your shirts and give us a listen.
Handcrafted with Liz 'Lemon' Della Croce!
January 05, 2022 13:00 - 1 hour - 41.5 MBOccasionally, one is 'hashtag blessed' and gets to converse with a superstar. Kicking off Season 4 of Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve, we sit down with internet sensation Liz Della Croce to discuss her online food, travel, and health resource ‘The Lemon Bowl.’ From her humble beginnings blogging to the creation of a digital empire, her stories, recipes, and global reach know no bounds. Grab a plate of hors’ devours as we find out how to turn passion into profit and see if this Midwest ...
She's Got Style, She's Got Grace
October 13, 2021 14:00 - 1 hour - 45.3 MBAs Brad and I round out our third season and nearly 50 recorded stories, we wanted to close this season with our biggest one, yet. It’s a tale of drama…and politics, and what it’s like to make city-affecting decisions, when all you want to do is eat nachos. This time, we share the microphone with the effervescent Mayor Rosalynn Bliss. Join us as we keep things completely informal, showing you that government officials CAN be datable, under what circumstances a ride with O.J. Simpson is ok,...
She Got Style, She Got Grace
October 13, 2021 14:00 - 1 hour - 45.3 MBAs Brad and I round out our third season and nearly 50 recorded stories, we wanted to close this season with our biggest one, yet. It’s a tale of drama…and politics, and what it’s like to make city-affecting decisions, when all you want to do is eat nachos. This time, we share the microphone with the effervescent Mayor Rosalynn Bliss. Join us as we keep things completely informal, showing you that government officials CAN be datable, under what circumstances a ride with O.J. Simpson is ok,...
Lens Stuff with Brian Kelly
September 14, 2021 19:00 - 1 hour - 54.7 MBFrom droning our city for coffee-table book material to photographing the nation’s funniest celebrities, our next guest sees the world through a different lens. Photographer, filmmaker, and podcaster Brian Kelly gets the microphone turned back on himself as we share our stories: the pros and cons of podcasting, what it’s like to photograph comedy royalty, who the best and worst subjects have been, and why Betty White is exactly who you want her to be.
Try, Try Again with Carrie 'Cookie' Kolehouse
September 02, 2021 12:00 - 50 minutes - 34.4 MBIf anything can be said about our next guest, it’s that ‘She tries!’ That’s our big takeaway from our conversation with Carrie Kolehouse, The Executive Director of Mom’s Bloom, an organization helping those women and men facing post-partem depression. A serial entrepreneur, ex newscaster, and current YouTube lounge singing star-Carrie flips the script on us and keeps up with all our B.S. Get out your laundry and have a listen!
The name's Good, David Good
August 16, 2021 13:00 - 57 minutes - 39.6 MBThings are (G)ood on Absolute BS as we speak about the perils and profit of being a true and self-effacing geek in today’s culture. Our new friend David kicks off a very sincere and unapologetic conversation about growing up introverted; effused in a sub-culture once generally misunderstood, but firmly standing center-stage of pop-culture today. Begin your favorite chore, run those errands, and join us as we find out how David Good created experiences to help himself and other’s combat the...
Back-handed App Slap!
July 30, 2021 13:00 - 57 minutes - 39.4 MBFrom grunt photographer and gallery owner to curating a city in a job with too many words in the title... This is the story of Rich 'don’t call me Dick' App. In this episode, we discuss art, culture, and the serious challenges of being hired to cultivate a city-wide business association in the midst of a pandemic (What? You've never done that before?) We also learn of his 'exit strategy' to Iceland when the world falls apart. It's comedy. It's pop culture. It's Absolute B.S.
Let's hear it for the Geeks!
July 14, 2021 17:00 - 1 hour - 57.1 MBWhat do Hannibal Lecter, War of the World’s, The Walking Dead, and VR training for mental health have in common? Our next guest! This time we have a blast sharing stories with Brian Hillard, Emmy-award winning special FX makeup artist, actor, producer, and CEO of Metashpere, the next level of therapy for mental and body health.
I Love You, Man
June 28, 2021 15:00 - 1 hour - 41.9 MBIn a culture struggling to reconcile a male’s role in the world today, we thought we’d change it up a little and interview one of our mutual childhood best friends. It’s rare to have long-term friendships, and this time we invite our long-term friend James Reinhardt to talk with us. It’s one of our favorites as we share our stories spanning 4 decades. There’s a ton of dirt, and we get right into it-the vomiting, the betrayals, and all the broken bones. We guarantee some of this is going t...
Beef, it's what we're talking about.
June 17, 2021 15:00 - 1 hour - 46.5 MBThis episode of ABS we’re talking to a bit of a celebrity. A bit of a chef. A bit of a social influencer, and a bit of a geek. Yes, We’re joined by the ‘soon to be legend’, Chef Mike Haracz, phoning in from Illinois. Mike’s energy keeps us busy as we discuss some of the bigger things he’s been a part of, most notable his time at McDonald’s where he was singularly responsible for bringing Szechuan sauce back to the franchise, then leaving for the greener pastures of Wendy’s and leading the ...
The Impact of Social Media With Cortney Duffner
May 19, 2021 15:00 - 1 hour - 42.2 MBIn this week’s episode of Absolute B.S. With Brad & Steve, Cortney Duffner walks us through the impact of social media on ourselves and our children. It’s the usual (and at times, unusual) B.S. that covers everything from Blue’s Clues to the age-old argument of bees versus spiders. Plus, if you love Michigan memorabilia-you’re in luck. Tune in throughout the episode for a promotional code to get free shipping on all of your Mitten State orders, throughout the month of May.
Cookin' Fresh with Chef Tommy!
May 07, 2021 19:00 - 1 hour - 41.4 MBIn this week's episode of Absolute B.S. With Brad & Steve, Tommy Fitzgerald serves up breakfast with a side of manic energy. We cover everything from how sh**ty dating is at this age to the art of napkin rolling. Stay tuned throughout the whole episode not only to find out if the camera adds ten pounds but also to get free shipping on your Mitten State orders, thanks to our generous sponsors.
Getting Back to YOU with Barbara Rapaport
April 28, 2021 15:00 - 57 minutes - 39.6 MBThe second time is always better, and for this episode of Absolute BS with Brad and Steve, we are once again joined by Executive Coach and new author, Barbara Rapaport. We further our discussion about mental health, cancer and what the future holds, in a more introspective episode. There’s even a little free therapy in there for you all. We invite you to stick around and learn more about this Grand Rapids legend, as she forces us to learn a little more about ourselves.
The Mitten Man: Scott Zubrickas
April 12, 2021 14:00 - 57 minutes - 39.7 MBWe like clothes…and we like Michigan. On this episode on Absolute B.S., we explore what it means to love both as we talk to Scott Zubrickas, the co-owner of The Mitten State, West Michigan’s premiere spot for uniquely Michigan-branded clothing and the ‘best apparel in the country.’ Join us as we take a deeper dive into a story of Michigan; and a story of how two friends created one of the most recognized Midwest operations, which now, reaches all the way across the country. It’s all the typ...
Media Hypes and Stereotypes: it’s Jen Pascua!
March 24, 2021 15:00 - 1 hour - 42.1 MBIn this episode of Absolute B.S,. we're joined by community treasure and media personality: Jennifer Pascua! Jen takes us through her full career, from teaching college classes on ‘pandemic-friendly’ digital platforms, to tumbling over trash cans on live television-she certainly gives us a unique perspective! We then get real; diving into her brushes with racial stereotypes, both public and private, as Jennifer highlights some of the toxicity in the television business. And as usual, we’ll ...
ABS Special Episode: The One about Cancer
March 16, 2021 14:00 - 44 minutes - 30.6 MBGrand Rapids podcast ‘Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve’ brings their irreverent and transparent conversational style to LaughFest 2021! Joined by leadership coach Barbara Rapaport, and stand-up comedian Nardos Osterhart, the four will carry a live discussion about all things cancerous: including the grief journey, binge-watching television, doing puzzles, finding silver linings, and ridiculous pop-culture. Show links: https://www.realtimeperspectives.com https://www.goodreads.com/book/sho...
Can't box her in: it's Keri Larsen Kujala!
March 03, 2021 16:00 - 1 hour - 45.1 MB🔈 Some new B.S. is here with... Keri Larsen Kujala! 🔈 In this episode, we dig into her humble beginnings as a cheerleader, turned professional G.R. Rampage dancer, turned... ‘eye-candy’ for an Elvis Costello concert? Then we pivot, or as Keri likes to call it “turning Pos de Bourree,” to her current career at Special Occasions, LLC. Find out why she and her biz partner started an event company just prior to a pandemic and how events are still produced and catered. Lastly, stick around ...
What's a 'Friend Factory'?
February 17, 2021 14:00 - 57 minutes - 39.4 MBIn this episode of Absolute B.S., Brad and Steve talk with local sportsman and culinary master, Christopher Wessely. They explore hot topics such playing sports to make friends, delicious opinions on hipster food preparation, the meaning of real hibachi, and the fact that Eggs Benedict does, in fact, suck. Don't @ us.
Business B.S.
January 11, 2021 21:00 - 13 minutes - 9.53 MBHappy New Year from Absolute B.S. with Brad and Steve. Coming out of whatever that was last year, we’re starting out 2021 with an ABS-mini! Spotlighting local businesses, for this ‘divergence’ we’re talking to GreenFrog Stills and Motion, a local resource for photography and videography. Join us, Jeff Hage and Seth Thompson, for a brief look into the how’s and why’s of their business, how they’ve survived a pandemic, and why in 2021 captured images will be more important than ever! It’s a l...
Music, Beer and Giving by Chris Andrus
November 11, 2020 15:00 - 1 hour - 47.8 MBAbsolute B.S. with Brad and Steve is back in the studio, and we’re social distancing hard! This time we are joined by the philanthropic force that is Chris Andrus. Entrepreneur, brew-master, and ‘dough’ maker extraordinaire, Chris opens up about bad music, how ‘not’ to act in a restaurant, and why being a philanthropic business isn’t a hard as you might think. Sit back, take your mask off, and be educated!
We are back with a splash... the great community supporter; Guillermo Cisneros
October 26, 2020 16:00 - 53 minutes - 36.7 MBAbsolute B.S. with Brad and Steve is back in the studio. Sitting roughly 5’9” away, we are joined by the indomitable force that is, Guillermo Cisneros. Join us as the Director of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce takes us on a journey from Mexico to Spain-onto Portugal, and then the Home Depot. It’s about personal struggle, pandemics, and Superman. It’s also the first time we leave a guest speechless with one of our “Are you Dateable” questions.
Ange Nelson... the indomitable spirit of resolve in a city of no hair salons
July 20, 2020 14:00 - 1 hour - 43.8 MBDay 3,122 of a global pandemic finds us talking to the spirited Angela Nelson, Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Vice President of Multicultural Business Development at Experience Grand Rapids. There’s that, and an exhaustive list of other leadership positions, entrepreneurial goals achieved, and life accomplishments. One of Grand Rapids ‘50 most influential women’ breaks down, marketing a city during a pandemic, thoughtfully addresses the civil unrest in the country, and proves to be our...
The amazing Shaun Shira talks social distancing, fruity beer and how to ask for money in 2020.
July 01, 2020 18:00 - 50 minutes - 34.9 MBAbsolute B.S. continues in quarantine with Shaun Shira, Major and Planned Gifts Director at the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Not a big ‘fruit in my beer’ kind of guy, Shaun gets into all things ‘pandemic!’ From new approaches to philanthropy planning to the convenience of curbside pickup; we’ll talk masks, we’ll talk social distancing, and we’ll talk about how Shaun seems to be the only person to lose weight in the past few months. Mow your lawn and give a listen.
Paul Lee...purveyor of taste in Grand Rapids
June 08, 2020 14:00 - 1 hour - 50.7 MBAbsolute BS Season 2 Episode Episode 9 We’re back…mostly...with our laptops and social distancing. Join us as we speak to restaurant provocateur Paul Lee, and get to hear all his B.S. Take a moment of needed levity and learn how this entrepreneur broke the mold: starting a restaurant revolution in Grand Rapids. From inception to movie inspiration to how food service is going to pivot post-pandemic, your B.S. is served.
Not our ABS (Justin) Swan song... meet this foundation man!
April 01, 2020 16:00 - 50 minutes - 34.5 MBA Pre-Quarantine Swansong. The Cascade Community Foundation’s CEO Justin Swan drops by just ahead of the Covid-19 quarantine to share some insights, some Corona Lights, and some strategy on donating in a time of crisis. It’s sumo babies, Christian artists, and animal testing. Give it a listen. You’ve got nothing else to do.
Jon O'Conner; 110 Proof Grand Rapidian
March 18, 2020 16:00 - 55 minutes - 37.9 MBAbsolute B.S. begins an epic journey as we talk to Jon O’ Connor, co-founder of Long Road Distillers! From humble beginnings in a garage, we trace the Long Road story from Grand Rapid’s West Side, all the way to its newest tasting facility located in *REDACTED* (you’ll have to listen to find out where!) From being a First Ward Commissioner to the burdens of new fatherhood, Jon’s candid demeanor and penchant for singing karaoke Dolly Parton songs, paints a portrait of a man with strange taste.
Jaime Counterman; Foundation Gunslinger
March 04, 2020 16:00 - 1 hour - 42 MBA true leader and influencer in every sense of the word…..according to LinkedIn…maybe: Jaime Counterman Foundation Director at Metro Health, strolls into the booth and launches into commentary, opinions, and what she thinks her superpower is. We also find out what she’s not passionate about and what haunts her thoughts 98% of the day. Listen in and see where this one takes us.
Welcome to the Chamber, my name is Laura (Traxler). How may I be of assistance?
February 19, 2020 16:00 - 54 minutes - 37.8 MBThis episode finds us improvising our way through the quizzical mind of Laura K. Traxler, Director of Membership Development at the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce. With a sharp attitude, and an explosive ‘twerk,’ -this hairdresser turned manager throws all the passion, energy, and ‘can-do’ attitude she can at us.
Now playing on a podcast near you...J.D. Loeks
January 29, 2020 16:00 - 57 minutes - 39.3 MBIt’s movies, music, and madness as we speak to President of Studio C and Celebration Studios- J.D. Loeks. With a firm eye on taking over the entertainment industry in Grand Rapids, J.D. speaks to the legacy of a family business, explains the origin of the ubiquitous ‘Wilhelm’ scream in cinema, and tries to use philosophy to duck our ‘dating’ questions.
A man, a large dog and an accent... this is Petrit Rudi
January 22, 2020 15:00 - 59 minutes - 41.2 MBPetrit Rudi CTO at Designvox, blasts into our studio to record a harrowing tale of greed, lust, and revenge! Actually, none of that-but he does describe growing up in wartime Kosovo, and his eventual escape from Kosovo with saxophone in hand. There’ll be dancing, there’ll be drums, and there will be a bastardization of the English language like only a young Albanian can. Borat would be proud! You don’t know as much about Albania as you think you do, so lean in and get cultured.
What a (David) Darling interview we had...
January 15, 2020 20:00 - 52 minutes - 36.4 MBAbsolute B.S., Brad and Steve gets cute with our next guest David Darling of Creston Industrial Sales. Extremely datable, but extremely unavailable, David challenges our notions of crappy movies, Care-Bears, and what it means to be part Native American in America today. Strap in for some frozen-yogurt mixed with a healthy dose of B.S.
Take a drive down the BCW (Bridget Clark Whitney)
January 08, 2020 16:00 - 49 minutes - 34.1 MBKicking off Season 2 of Absolute B.S., Brad and Steve get set on fire by the relentless energy of our first guest of 2020. There’ll be food. There’ll be baskets. Join us as we take a ride on the BCW to find out the power of ‘Electronica’ music, why school uniforms are a must, and just how ‘basic’ a Grand Rapids leader can be!