Inspire West Michigan is a podcast collaboration between Acorn Marketing, the Grand Haven, Spring Lake & Ferrysburg Chamber of Commerce, and ReDiscover Studios—created to elevate the voices of West Michigan’s business community.
Guests
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.
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.
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.
