Conversations with Mark

Conversations with the Grand Rapids Children's Museum

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Maggie Lancaster, CEO of the Grand Rapids Children's Museum. We discuss their incredible work connecting kids with learning through play, hands-on education programs and community connections. The full episode is available now on all major streaming platforms.

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Conversations with Blandford Nature Center

Join me for my podcast conversation with Stacy Stout, President and CEO of Blandford Nature Center. We discuss their incredible work connecting our community with nature, conservation, and outdoor education.

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Conversations with McDonalds

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Ryan Reardon, local McDonald's Franchisee. We discuss the challenges of running a small business, taking care of your employees and giving back to the community you serve.

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Conversations with Mayor Rosalynn Bliss

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Rosalynn Bliss, former mayor of Grand Rapids. We discuss the importance of local government, the planning required to run a municipality, and the blessings and challenges that come with growth.

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Conversations with LMCU

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Julie Leonard, President and CEO of Lake Michigan Credit Union. We discuss the vital role credit unions play in our communities, including their work in financial literacy and homeownership.

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Conversations with Johnny Brann Jr.

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Johnny Brann Jr., restaurateur and business leader. We discuss the history of the Brann Family, the businesses he has started, and how he gets involved and gives back to the West Michigan community.

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Conversations with the City of Coopersville

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Kate Terpstra, the marketing and economic administrator and senior recreational director for the city of Coopersville. We discuss the growth of Coopersville, maintaining the small town feel and creating community engagement.

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Conversations with Swanson Pickle Company

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Katie Hensley, CFO at Swanson Pickle Co. We discuss how this family farm grew from a postwar idea into a product found on shelves nationwide and what it takes each day to maintain their impressive operation.

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Conversations with the League of Michigan Bicyclists

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Bill Brennan, an active member of the League of Michigan Bicyclists. We discuss the beautiful trails we have here in West Michigan, how cycling brings people together, and policy that keeps cyclists safe on the road.

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Conversations with the Michigan Railroad Association

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Jon Cool, President of the Michigan Railroad Association. We discuss the various railways in our state, how they support our economy, and the modern technology used to keep rail transportation safe.

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Conversations with Homestead Orchards

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Adam Dietrich, Co-Owner of Homestead Orchards and President of the Ottawa County Farm Bureau. We discuss the importance of agriculture in our community, teaching our youth where their food comes from, and the diversity of farming right here in West Michigan.

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Conversations with the Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Join me for my podcast conversation with Tory Richardson, the President and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. We discussed the airports growth, upcoming projects, and how it has become one of the top airports nationally.

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Conversations with Jo DeMarco

Join me or a conversation with Jo DeMarco, clerk for Ada township. We discuss what a typical day looks like for a clerk, the important role of local government, and her favorite part of serving the people of Ada!

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Conversations with Conservation Districts

In this week's episode of Conversations with Mark, I sat down with Rivka Hodgkinson, Exectuive director of the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts. We discuss how conservation districts educate the public on native plants through spring and summer plant sales.

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Conversation with Mark, featuring Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce

Join me for a conversation with Josh Lunger, Vice President of Advocacy at the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce. In this episode, we discuss the affordable housing crisis, what affordability truly means, and ways we can work together to address this challenge.

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Conversations with Mark featuring Walker Mayor Gary Carey

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I’m joined by City of Walker Mayor Gary Carey. We discuss the importance of local economic development, the new public library in Walker, and the role of local government. You can catch the full episode now on all major streaming platforms.

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Conversations with Kent District Library

In this week's episode of Conversations with Mark, I sat down with Kent District Library Executive Director Lance Werner to learn more about the library's resources and the spaces available for the public to use for learning opportunities, community gatherings, and more.

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Conversations with Mark joined by Habitat for Humanity

In my conversation with Bev Thiel, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Kent County, we discussed how their work and mission help families in West Michigan find affordability and stability in our communities. The full episode is available on all major Platforms!

Stay Tuned!

I’m State Senator Mark Huizenga, and I want to invite you to my new podcast, Conversations with Mark. This podcast is about listening and learning. I’ll be sitting down with community members, local leaders, organizations, and elected officials from Michigan’s 30th Senate District. Stay tuned on February 19th, 2026, for our first episode!