Guests

Matt Bakker

President of Landscape Design Services

Matt Bakker is the President of Landscape Design Services, a multi-generational West Michigan company that has been helping shape outdoor spaces across the region since 1968.

What began as a small landscaping operation started by Matt’s father, Larry Bakker, has grown into one of the region’s leading full-service landscape architecture, construction, and maintenance companies. Today, Landscape Design Services serves communities across West Michigan with a team of nearly 200 employees.

Matt’s story is deeply rooted in the business itself. Growing up alongside his brother Jeremy, he spent his early years pruning trees, operating equipment, and working in the garden center long before he could drive. Those hands-on experiences gave him a deep appreciation for both the craft and the people behind the company.

Josh Bytwerk

Executive Director, Love In Action of the Tri-Cities

Josh Bytwerk serves as the Executive Director of Love in Action of the Tri-Cities, a community-driven nonprofit dedicated to addressing poverty through holistic care and long-term empowerment. With a leadership journey that began as a volunteer, Josh brings a deeply personal and relational approach to his work—focusing not just on meeting immediate needs like food, healthcare, and housing, but on helping individuals move toward stability, dignity, and freedom. Under his leadership, Love in Action has expanded its impact through innovative programs like community co-op markets, financial fitness initiatives, and free medical and dental services.

Josh is passionate about building a connected, compassionate community where transformation happens through relationships as much as resources. He believes the most effective response to poverty is not a handout, but a pathway forward—one rooted in empowerment, collaboration, and genuine care. Through strong partnerships with local churches, businesses, and volunteers, Josh continues to champion a model of service that reflects the heart of the community and creates lasting change for thousands of individuals and families each year.

Mark Allen

President & CEO, The Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg

Mark Allen is President of The Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg, where he leads strategic initiatives supporting businesses across Northwest Ottawa County. Appointed in 2023, Mark brought more than 14 years of chamber experience from the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, where he served as Senior Director of Business Services, overseeing programs, business outreach, growth initiatives, and member engagement. A graduate of the Institute for Organizational Management through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Mark is passionate about strengthening business ecosystems and building meaningful connections. Prior to his chamber career, he held leadership roles in hospitality and staffing — and notably once served as a volunteer Ambassador for this very Chamber, making his return as President a full-circle moment.

Peter Oleszczuk

President, Westwind Construction

Peter Oleszczuk is President of Westwind Construction and Midwest Property Development, Inc., leading the company founded by his father with respect for its legacy and a vision for continued growth. His journey began in high school sweeping floors, giving him firsthand experience at every level of the business. Over the past 20 years, he has grown into his leadership role, committed to excellence in construction management and real estate development. On the Inspire West Michigan podcast, Pete shares insights on running a second-generation family business, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how fatherhood has shaped his patient, team-first leadership style—crediting a strong leadership team as key to the company’s ongoing success. 

Kelly Larson

Owner, Sweet Temptations, Temptations, The Front Porch, Skoops & Fortino’s

Kelly Larson is a longtime Grand Haven entrepreneur best known for building some of the community’s most beloved “fun” destinations—ice cream shops: Sweet Temptations, Temptations, The Front Porch, Skoops; and the historic Fortino’s specialty food and gift shop downtown. Her journey started at age 15 with her first job on the boardwalk, then evolved into a family business she helped grow into a multi-location operation known for creative promotions, community connection, and nationally recognized ice cream. Kelly is deeply committed to a growth mindset bringing dynamic promotions to her stores, including standout events like her advent-style holiday ice cream calendar and popular limited-time promotions, like Stuff Your Stanley. She’s also a passionate developer of people, known for trusting young team members with real responsibility and focusing on training that helps them thrive.

Justin Raha

Chef/Owner, Grand Finale Bistro & Café, Grand Finale Deli & Bakeshop & Blueberry Haven

Justin Raha is a Grand Haven native, chef, and entrepreneur whose culinary journey began in pastry arts and has grown into ownership of multiple West Michigan food destinations, including Grand Finale Bistro & Café in Grand Haven, Grand Finale Deli & Bakeshop in Spring Lake, and Blueberry Haven. With a foundation as a pastry chef, Justin brings both precision and creativity to his menus. An avid traveler, he immerses himself in the culture, cuisine, wines, and restaurants of the cities and countries he visits—bringing those global influences back home to expand the palates of his customers. Through each of his ventures, Justin blends technique, hospitality, and worldly inspiration to create memorable dining experiences rooted in his hometown community.