Advertise on podcast: Muskegon Rising

When the USS Silversides left Muskegon for major preservation work, no one expected the refit to uncover a remarkable connection to another World War II submarine. During the war, the Silversides and USS Trigger were once docked side by side for repairs. When the Silversides needed a flood valve to get back into action, one was taken from the Trigger and installed aboard her. The Trigger was later lost in the war. More than 80 years later, that borrowed piece of equipment remains part of the Silversides—and its story is being rediscovered as the submarine undergoes extensive preservation work. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike talks with USS Silversides Museum Executive Director Veronica Campbell about what crews are finding during the submarine's refit, why decades in the fresh water of Lake Michigan helped preserve this national treasure, and what visitors can expect when she returns to Muskegon. But this story is about more than preserving a submarine. The museum is looking toward the future—expanding educational opportunities, connecting young people with engineering, advanced manufacturing and skilled trades, developing more immersive exhibits, and finding new ways for Muskegon families to experience history firsthand. The Silversides represents an extraordinary piece of American history. Its next chapter may be just as important: using that history to educate, inspire and connect another generation. Discover why preserving the Silversides matters to Muskegon—and why some of its most fascinating stories are still being uncovered.

Muskegon has something communities many times its size would envy: an extraordinary concentration of arts and cultural institutions—and their impact reaches far beyond the stage, gallery or museum. Muskegon Rising host Aaron Maike talks with Kirk Hallman about how the Muskegon Arts and Culture Coalition is helping turn these remarkable assets into an economic engine—attracting talent, strengthening businesses, welcoming visitors and creating a community where everyone can belong. Discover why investing in arts and culture is really an investment in Muskegon’s future.

For parents wondering what opportunities will be waiting for their children after high school, some of the most encouraging answers are being built right here in Muskegon County. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, Bernard Brown, Director of the Muskegon ISD Career and Technical Center, explains how career education is expanding to give students meaningful exposure to growing fields—including HVAC, community health, aviation and advanced manufacturing. These programs are being developed in direct conversation with local employers, helping students connect what they learn in school with genuine career opportunities in the community. The larger message for parents is especially important: there is more than one pathway to a successful future. Muskegon County students can explore careers, develop practical skills and make better-informed decisions about what comes after graduation—whether that means employment, certification, community college or further education. This conversation offers parents a valuable look at resources they may not realize are available to their children—and at a community working deliberately to make education more relevant to the opportunities of tomorrow.

Discover how reliable air service is helping fuel Muskegon's economic future. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike sits down with James Perry, Regional Manager for Denver Air Connection, to discuss the remarkable transformation of Muskegon County Airport. From record passenger growth and dependable service to the addition of a regional aircraft maintenance hub creating skilled local jobs, James explains how the airport is becoming a vital asset for business, workforce development, and community growth. Learn why more travelers are choosing to fly from Muskegon, how local aviation partnerships are creating career pathways for students, and why a thriving airport is essential to attracting new investment throughout West Michigan.

Discover why the Lakeshore Museum Center is one of Muskegon County's greatest educational resources. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host DJ Hilson talks with Executive Director Melissa Horton about the museums that preserve and celebrate our community's remarkable history. Learn about free educational programs for local students, interactive exhibits for families, the famous Hackley and Hume Historic Site, the Heritage Museum of Business & Industry, the Muskegon Museum of History & Science, and the stories behind the industries, innovators, and philanthropists who helped shape Muskegon. Whether you're a lifelong resident, a newcomer, educator, parent, or history enthusiast, this conversation highlights why preserving local history inspires future generations and strengthens our community.

Muskegon Rising host DJ Hilson talks with Jerry Farley of Oakmont Education about a new chapter for Muskegon Covenant Academy—one built around meeting students where they are and connecting education directly to meaningful careers. Farley explains how career-tech training, work-based learning, strong business partnerships, and continued support after graduation can give youth the skills, confidence, and pathway to lasting economic mobility while strengthening Muskegon’s future workforce.

In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host DJ Hilson sits down with Emily Morgenstern to explore how Silent Observer is strengthening public safety and supporting economic development across Muskegon County. Learn how this anonymous crime tip program empowers residents to share critical information without fear, helps law enforcement solve serious crimes, and builds a safer, more attractive environment for businesses and investors. From real-world success stories to how you can submit tips or support the program, this conversation highlights why community-driven safety initiatives are essential to Muskegon’s continued growth.

On this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike sits down with Scott Wilbur of MOTIV Bowling to explore the company’s major expansion in Roosevelt Park, its advanced manufacturing edge, and why a global competitor chooses to stay rooted in Muskegon County. From precision engineering and patented processes to workforce development partnerships with local colleges, Scott shares how innovation, integrity, and community collaboration are fueling rapid growth. This is a story about manufacturing excellence, local leadership, and building world-class products right here in West Michigan.

What does it take to turn a downtown “desert” into a statewide craft beer success story? From CPA to craft beer entrepreneur, Joel Kamp of Pigeon Hill Brewing Company shares how bold timing, local banking relationships, and disciplined financial strategy helped spark momentum in downtown Muskegon. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, we break down the real economics of craft beer—capital investment, bank financing, supply chain volatility, workforce structure, regulatory pressures, and scaling distribution across Michigan and into northern Indiana. It’s a candid conversation about risk, resilience, and refining operations for long-term sustainability in a maturing market.

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.