The Art of Awareness brings the stories of our neighbors to life, highlighting the people and organizations that make West Michigan vibrant. We believe that what makes people truly interesting is the empathy they carry - their struggles, passions, and perspectives - which is where genuine connection begins.
We go beyond surface-level storytelling to explore the purpose of those driving change, showing how their experiences inspire and engage. Through these local stories, we uncover ways to support one another and strengthen our community. In a world often dominated by sound bites and division, we aim to restore connection, celebrate local contributions, and make community support contagious again.
Join us on Saturday, October 3rd from 10-6pm at Rosa Parks Circle - create your own pottery!
The Pottery Lane (https://potterylanegr.com/)
1 Oct 2026
RC Caylan: A Journey Stitched with Purpose
Join us as we hear about RC’s journey, his passion for fashion, and his drive to make a difference in our community. Get your free tickets today and help us break the fashion show world record! Get your tickets here (https://www.acrisureamphitheater.com/events/2026/artprize-awards-celebration-and-fashion-show).
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RC Caylan’s journey began in the Philippines, where he discovered his love for fashion at just nine years old, inspired by his mother and grandmother, both seamstresses. His path to becoming an internationally recognized designer was shaped by embracing his identity, finding love while working aboard a cruise ship, and eventually making his way to Grand Rapids, where he turned his passion into a career.
From creating his first collection on a kitchen table to opening RC Caylan Atelier in downtown Grand Rapids, RC has built a name for himself on international runways while remaining deeply committed to the community he calls home. His story is one of artistry, resilience, love, and the determination to turn a dream into something extraordinary.
31 Jul 2026
Darrius Barnes: Soccer Journey to Grand Rapids and the ACGR community
Darrius Barnes shares his soccer journey which led him to Grand Rapids and growing the ACGR community.
31 Jul 2026
Graci Harkema: Mud Hut to Board Room
Laurie Duthie interviews Gracie Harkema.
5 May 2026
Katey Romence: Soil, Water & Sunshine - Building Community "Roots"
In this episode, Laurie Duthie sits down with Katey Romence of Romence Gardens & Greenhouses (https://romencegardens.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=15843915528&gbraid=0AAAAAD1MRUJ4b2fTb2wTzRmVPGotJ-WJj&gclid=Cj0KCQjws83OBhD4ARIsACblj1-w6m9cHSO4BCftstMWWSgcFLTlvn3Rca4MZm-JJsqUvAPhk_YTlQ0aAiirEALw_wcB) to talk about stepping into leadership within a multi-generation family business and what it means to teach the next generation the craft, care, and attention to detail that gardening demands.
From sunshine, soil, and water to the day-to-day work behind the scenes, Katey shares how growth happens by working side by side with her amazing team. Hoping to all learn through experience, passing down knowledge, and building a team that takes pride in every plant and every project.
Then, the challenge flips.
The KT Takeover is on—and this time, Laurie is the one on the clock. Guided by Katey and her team, she steps into Kristie’s yard to take on the project herself, putting those lessons into action and discovering firsthand what it really takes to bring a vision to life.
It’s a story about leadership, learning, and building roots that last—by growing people just as much as gardens.
Family business to teaching the next generation though hard work and willingness to work along side......truly building community "Roots"
5 May 2026
Burton Cardwell: Sailing into Opportunity and Access
Jolly Madison Sailing Club - Together We Can. (https://jollymadisonsailingclub.org)
5 May 2026
Cindy Foley: Summer Nights at the Museum
This episode is sponsored by Experience GR! (https://www.experiencegr.com/?creative=285088512854&mykeyword=experience%20grand%20rapids&mymatchtype=e&svap=114074&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=60571776&gbraid=0AAAAADvt2YhET_FhnMNG96KrhUgoe0SIe&gclid=CjwKCAjwqubPBhBOEiwAzgZX2hoZSToL5m4ZcmxCkburlc9gj0-PPt6lwKVEFPrW9VmXCKppWYU5RBoCMVcQAvD_BwE)
Take the journey from the GRAM's Sexy Cow, Sunset on the Terrace, AC GR (https://www.acgrandrapids.com)& GRAM Soccer Film Screening, Wonder Cycle, Sound Bath, and shoutout to AYA Youth Collective! (https://ayayouth.org)
Check out Cindy on her own podcast: Heart Move Magic (https://open.spotify.com/episode/27WA8LZxAGhHfInZayTp4X)!
Sunset on the Terrace - RSVP Today (https://www.artmuseumgr.org/events/sunset-on-the-terrace)
Free Thursdays starting June 11, 2026
Film Screening: Summer of '94 with AC Grand Rapids (https://www.artmuseumgr.org/events/summer-of-94)
Thursday, June 4th, 2026
VOTE for the Sexy Cow! Become a GRAM Member! (https://www.artmuseumgr.org/membership)
21 Apr 2026
Shawn Kohlhaas: Taste of Hope, Passion and Purpose
In this episode, we sit down with Shawn Kohlhass to explore how passion, purpose, and the culinary world converge to create a powerful community impact.
At the heart of the conversation is Taste of Hope (https://tohwestmi.acsgala.org), an inspiring event supporting the mission of the American Cancer Society (https://www.cancer.org). We delve into how this movement, through powerful partnerships with organizations like the American Cancer Society and the Van Andel Institute (https://www.vai.org) (VAI), is driving forward both crucial patient support and groundbreaking cancer research. This includes mentioning the valuable support of organizations like Revive & Thrive (www.reviveandthrive.org), which provides boots-on-the-ground journey support for those navigating cancer.
The episode dives into the culinary industry’s vital role in driving change, recognizing the influence of the American Culinary Federation (https://www.acfchefs.org) and innovative efforts like Culinary Cultivations, which open doors and create pathways for the next generation of chefs. This commitment to strengthening the community is also celebrated through the meaningful work of the Tip Jar Foundation (https://tipjarfoundation.com), which supports food and hospitality professionals.
Finally, we celebrate the people and platforms bringing this story to life - from the creative lens of MeganLeigh (https://www.meganleigh.photography)to forward-thinking collaborations like BreakingBread.ai (http://BreakingBread.ai) and Silva (silvagr.com), all working to elevate connection, storytelling, and impact.This is a conversation about resilience, generosity, and the profound power of coming together to support one another.
This conversation is about more than food - it’s about resilience, generosity, and the power of coming together to create something bigger than ourselves.
🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and discover how you can be part of the movement.
American Cancer Society. 1-800-227-2345
9 Apr 2026
Winsome Kirton: From Breaking Code to Breaking Bread
Laurie sits down with Winsome Kirton to discuss how BreakingBread.ai (https://breakingbread.ai/)is turning tech into in-person connection.
Sign up for the next Come as YOU are Gathering with Breaking Bread. (https://beta.breakingbread.ai/event/dc2e76b5096ce1239b59105851866c4f)
31 Mar 2026
Connie Lettinga: Jet Ski Model to Autism Advocate
Laurie Duthie sits down with Connie Lettinga to explore her unexpected journey from a carefree jet ski model to a passionate autism community advocate. Laugh, learn, and be inspired as Connie shares the vision behind Coral Reef (https://www.liveatcoralreef.com), a one-of-a-kind community that empowers independence while ensuring no one is ever truly alone.
Consider getting involved at the Autism Walk on the Blue Bridge (https://hopenetwork.org/foundation/events/2026-blue-bridge-walk-for-autism-and-sensory-friendly-museum-night)or signing up for the Hope Network - Michael P Lettinga Golf Outing. (https://hopenetwork.org/foundation/events/2026-michael-p-lettinga-golf-classic) Both support and raise awareness of living with autism.
Special thanks to Megan Leigh Photography (https://www.meganleigh.photography) and Silva (https://silvagr.com) for hosting our Come as You Are Events.
Follow us on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtofAwarenessPodcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theartofawarenesspodcast/), and sign up for the next event (https://www.theartofawareness.org)!
16 Mar 2026
Megan Erskine: Second City Improv to Healthcare CEO
Laurie Duthie sits down with Megan Erskine to talk about the unexpected journey from Second City in Chicago to CEO of Catherine’s Health Center (https://catherineshc.org/).
Laugh with us, be inspired, and hear how becoming more aware in your own space can shape the path you never planned.
As Catherine’s Health celebrates its 30th Anniversary on May 7th at FMG (https://secure.qgiv.com/for/catherinesevent/event/catherineshealthcenter30thanniversarycelebration/), we also explore a simple but powerful question: What do the blue doors represent?
Thank you to Silva (https://silvagr.com/)for hosting our Come As You Are Gathering (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeYZpCEoHnZhy2pVylC1sP06J8-ekXxnmX05o2f67hLWlu-1g/viewform)on March 19 | 4–7 PM.
Special thanks to Megan Leigh Photography (https://www.facebook.com/MeganLeighH.Photography) for capturing the moments.
Follow along and watch the episode on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtofAwarenessPodcast) and engage with us on Substack (https://substack.com/@theartofawareness).
4 Mar 2026
Laurie Duthie: Silicon Valley to Podcast Host
Step into the world of The Art of Awareness with host Laurie Duthie, whose thoughtful presence and genuine curiosity guide powerful conversations about growth, healing, and conscious living. This trailer offers a glimpse into the insight, inspiration, and authentic connection that define the journey ahead.
4 Mar 2026
Mandy Thompson: Feeding Neighbors to Feeding her Community
The conversation covers Chef Mandy's journey from culinary arts to holistic wellness, her experience with Revive and Thrive (www.reviveandthrive.org), and the challenges she faced in her career path. It also explores the theme of imposter syndrome and the new opportunities that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation covers the engagement of volunteers in the kitchen, teaching cooking skills to teens, overcoming cooking challenges, and the art of awareness and growth. It also provides valuable cooking tips for listeners.
Thank you to Silva (https://silvagr.com/) for hosting this meaningful conversation. To learn more about Revive & Thrive and how you can support their mission, including joining their upcoming 5K Miles for Meals (https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/GrandRapids/RTMilesForMeals), be sure to check out their work.
Follow us on Substack (https://substack.com/@theartofawareness) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtofAwarenessPodcast) to stay connected and stay aware!
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