A New Start
The Grand Rapids Chamber has officially relaunched a new podcast. Previously known under the name Good Company, the Chamber’s podcast is now Back to Business. This new title reflects the new style of the show and our vision for a prosperous West Michigan for all.
The Grand Rapids Chamber staff is busy at work in the community , and so are our members. Back to Business highlights the work of the Chamber and its members for the community. Whether it’s talking about new COVID-19 regulations with our government affairs team, or discussing a new or innovative idea from one of our members, or something else entirely, Back to Business will highlight your Grand Rapids Chamber’s work in the community. Each quarter, you can expect to hear episodes highlighting the different areas of work the Chamber is involved in including talent development, business services, government affairs, and more.
Listen Now
Two Episodes of the Back to Business podcast have already been released! New episodes will be released biweekly on Mondays and will be available on our website. They will also be available on major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.
On the first episode, host Connor Smithee had a chance to sit down with Inclusion Program Manager, Emily Smith and former Director of Inclusion, Ken James to discuss the value of DEI programming for employers. We also discuss the Chamber’s long history of DEI programming and its commitment to all members of our community.
On the second episode, Smithee had a chance to sit down with David Green, Communications Director for the City of Grand Rapids, and Rich App, Retail, Retention, and Attraction Specialist for the Grand Rapids Chamber. We had a chance to discuss Grand Rapids’ continuing growth and how the city, Chamber, and other organizations are working to make sure that Grand Rapids continues to grow and prosper, as well as what makes Grand Rapids an attractive city to live and work.
More episodes will be coming soon! The Grand Rapids Chamber is filled with busy people making a difference and we can’t wait to highlight their work!
Meet Your Host 
Connor Smithee, Multimedia Marketing Specialist, Grand Rapids Chamber
With almost ten years of broadcasting experience, Connor knows how to lead a conversation behind a microphone. Originally from Lowell, Connor has worked at multiple radio stations in the Grand Rapids area, including with award-winning morning show Connie and Fish. A graduate of Michigan State University’s School of Journalism, Connor has a wide range of experience reporting on many topics around Michigan. Most recently, Connor has done extensive reporting on the 2020 election and how COVID-19 has affected businesses and organizations. Connor loves West Michigan and wants to use Back to Business to help connect the Chamber with the West Michigan community. He welcomes any feedback, questions, or ideas for the podcast. You can reach Connor by emailing him at connor@grandrapids.org.
