Blog

Versatile digital writer crafting sharp, narrative-driven criticism on music, media, and culture, and clear, on-voice blog content for brands—tailoring tone, depth, and style to fit both editorial storytelling and client marketing goals.

Marketing

ICYMI: What Google's Antitrust Ruling Means for Advertisers

Google's antitrust ruling is reshaping the advertising landscape. Discover what this legal decision means for your campaigns and how to prepare for the changes ahead.

Google AdsAdvertisingAntitrustDigital Marketing
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Five AI Tools for Personalized Marketing

Elevate your marketing campaigns with these five AI tools designed to personalize content, generate creative assets, and build engaging social media reels.

AIMarketing ToolsPersonalizationContent Creation
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The Importance of Ethical Marketing

Building lasting customer relationships starts with ethical marketing practices. Learn the foundational principles that foster trust and loyalty with your audience.

EthicsMarketing StrategyCustomer RelationshipsTrust
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AI in Marketing: Personalization at Scale

Modern consumers demand personalized experiences. Explore how artificial intelligence enables brands to deliver customized marketing at scale.

AIPersonalizationMarketingCustomer Experience
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Music

Review: Deftones "private music"

Deftones' tenth studio album marks a spiritual shift toward introspection, prioritizing atmospheric sound over structure in a meditation-like listening experience.

MusicAlbum ReviewDeftonesOpinion
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Forever, Howlong – ALBUM REVIEW

The English art-rock group's third studio album may have some skeletons in its closet–of past selves, past sounds–but they're joined by something tender and breathing: presence, warmth, and a willingness to stay soft.

MusicAlbum ReviewBlack Country New RoadArt Rock
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The Critic is Lord: How the Internet Reshaped Music Criticism

While likely alien to today's generation of young music nerds, there was a time when getting a review in Rolling Stone or Creem could make or break a record. Music criticism hasn't died—it's mutated, and we as listeners are mutating with it.

MusicCriticismInternetOpinionMedia
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My top 10 albums of 2024

A personal countdown of the year's best albums spanning alternative rock, indie pop, hardcore, and hip-hop, crowned by Tyler, the Creator's introspective masterpiece.

MusicAlbum ReviewOpinionYear-End List
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Every Taylor Swift album, ranked

A comprehensive ranking of Taylor Swift's complete discography, evaluating each album's artistic merit and cultural impact across her career.

MusicTaylor SwiftAlbum RankingOpinionPop Culture
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8 Years of TPAB: How Kendrick Lamar Shaped the Future of Hip-Hop

Kendrick Lamar's 'To Pimp a Butterfly' revolutionized hip-hop with its jazz-infused sound and powerful social commentary, influencing a generation of artists.

MusicHip-HopKendrick LamarAlbum Analysis
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Review: MGK Embraces the Hate With 'Mainstream Sellout'

Machine Gun Kelly's sixth studio album doubles down on pop-punk while addressing critics head-on, creating a defiant and energetic follow-up to 'Tickets to My Downfall.'

MusicAlbum ReviewPop PunkMGK
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Column: Is Pop Punk Back?

A resurgence of pop-punk sounds and aesthetics has taken over mainstream music, but is this a genuine revival or just nostalgia-driven trend?

MusicPop PunkOpinionMusic Trends
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Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Announces Most Diverse Nominee List Yet

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's latest class of nominees represents a broader range of genres and artists, reflecting the evolving definition of rock music.

MusicRock Hall of FameOpinionMusic History
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Column: Is Streaming Good for the Music Industry?

An examination of how streaming services have transformed the music industry, exploring both benefits and drawbacks for artists and listeners.

MusicStreamingOpinionMusic Industry
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Column: The Weeknd Explores the Afterlife With 'Dawn FM'

The Weeknd's fifth studio album takes listeners on a journey through purgatory with 80s-inspired synth-pop and existential themes.

MusicAlbum ReviewThe WeekndPop
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Sports

Michigan Football's success proves that the sign stealing scandal means little

Michigan's undefeated championship run demonstrates that the sign-stealing controversy had minimal impact, with performance under scrutiny proving their dominance was legitimate.

SportsMichigan FootballOpinionCollege Football
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Don't Give Into the Pressure of Sports Betting

As sports betting becomes more accessible, it's crucial to understand the risks and resist the pressure to participate in what can become an addictive habit.

SportsOpinionGamblingMental Health
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Michigan's 'One More Year' Fund Returns Players, Raises Concerns

Michigan's NIL fund bringing players back for another year raises questions about competitive balance and the evolving landscape of college athletics.

SportsCollege FootballNILOpinion
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Medical

Staying on Track With Your Fall Health Plan

As summer turns to fall, reassess your health goals. Define your "why," map out steps, and focus on small changes that create lasting impact.

HealthWellnessGoal SettingLifestyle
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September is Suicide Awareness Month: Recognizing Risks and Getting Help

48,683 people died by suicide in 2024. Learn the warning signs, how to start life-saving conversations, and where to find help. Call or text 988.

Mental HealthSuicide PreventionAwarenessCrisis Support
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How to Treat PCOS Symptoms

PCOS affects 7-10% of women and is the leading cause of infertility, but it's treatable. Lifestyle changes and the right medications can transform your health.

PCOSWomen's HealthFertilityTreatment
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The Pros & Cons of Telehealth Care

Telehealth improves access, reduces costs, and delivers quality care—but it's not without challenges. Learn when virtual care works best for you.

TelehealthHealthcareVirtual CareTechnology
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Hair Loss: The Conditions That Cause It & How to Prevent It

33% of women experience hair loss during their lifetime. From hormones to nutrition to stress, learn the causes and how to keep your hair healthy.

Hair LossWomen's HealthPreventionWellness
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Don't Wait: Early Diagnosis for Appendicitis in Women

Women face diagnostic delays for appendicitis by 12-24 hours compared to men. Learn the symptoms and why self-advocacy can save your life.

Women's HealthEmergency CareDiagnosisAdvocacy
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Breaking Barriers to Wellness

Wellness isn't about perfection—it's about direction. Identify what's holding you back and take small, consistent steps toward better health.

WellnessHealthMindsetPersonal Growth
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How to Sync Up With Your Circadian Rhythm

Feeling off despite healthy habits? Your internal clock might be out of sync. Discover how to align with your circadian rhythm for better energy and sleep.

SleepCircadian RhythmEnergyHealth
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Let's Chat: Instrument of Change - Redesigning the Pelvic Exam

Say goodbye to pain and anxiety with the Nella Speculum—a TIME Magazine Invention of the Year that's transforming pelvic exams for women everywhere.

Women's HealthInnovationMedical TechnologyHealthcare
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How Michigan Is Leading the Charge in Menopause-Informed Healthcare

Michigan is pioneering menopause policy with 24 new bills nationwide, town halls across the state, and proposed funding for menopause education in medical schools.

MenopauseWomen's HealthHealthcare PolicyMichigan
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Reducing Joint Pain & Increasing Mobility

Joint pain doesn't have to sideline you. Learn how strength training, nutrition, and hormone support can help you stay active through midlife and beyond.

Joint HealthOsteoarthritisMobilityFitness
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Preventing Injury During Summer Fun

Women over 40 face higher injury risks due to hormonal shifts. Learn how to prepare your body with warm-ups, nutrition, and proper recovery.

Injury PreventionSummerFitnessWomen's Health
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Men's Health By the Numbers

Cardiovascular disease is the #1 cause of death in men, yet it's largely preventable. Learn the 9 essential health numbers every man should know.

Men's HealthPreventionCardiovascular HealthWellness
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Building a Gut-Healthy Grocery List

Your gut health impacts everything from digestion to mental health. Learn which foods feed your microbiome and support lifelong wellness.

Gut HealthNutritionMicrobiomeWellness
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News

Three Finalists Selected in GV Police Chief Search

Grand Valley State University has narrowed down its search for a new police chief to three finalists, marking a significant step in campus safety leadership.

NewsGVSUCampus SafetyLeadership
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Carillon Concert Series Makes Return to GV Allendale Campus

The beloved carillon concert series returns to Grand Valley's Allendale campus, bringing bell tower music back to students and community members.

MusicGVSUConcertCampus Life
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GV Theatre Recreates Simpsons Episode With New Play

Grand Valley's theatre department brings animated comedy to life with a creative adaptation of a classic Simpsons episode for the stage.

Cultural CommentaryTheatreGVSUComedy
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GV Animation Students Collab With GR Ballet for Show

Grand Valley animation students partner with the Grand Rapids Ballet to create visual elements for an innovative performance blending traditional dance with digital art.

Cultural CommentaryArtGVSUCollaboration
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GV Art Gallery Hosts Third Installment of 'On The Wall'

The Art Gallery continues its popular 'On The Wall' series, featuring works that challenge conventional perspectives and engage viewers in meaningful dialogue.

Cultural CommentaryArtGVSUExhibition
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GV Hosts GR Poet Laureate for Virtual Poetry Night

Grand Rapids Poet Laureate visits Grand Valley for an evening of poetry readings, workshops, and celebration of the spoken word.

Cultural CommentaryPoetryGVSULiterature
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Former GV Professor Publishes New Book

A former Grand Valley professor releases a new publication, drawing on years of academic research and creative exploration.

Cultural CommentaryLiteratureGVSUPublishing
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MTD Department Closes Black History Month With Student Concert

The Music, Theatre & Dance department celebrates Black History Month with a powerful student concert showcasing diverse musical traditions and talents.

MusicGVSUBlack History MonthConcert
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GV Professors Host Virtual Talk About Death

Grand Valley faculty members facilitate an important conversation about death, dying, and grief in contemporary society.

Cultural CommentaryGVSUPhilosophySocial Issues
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GV to Showcase Student Art With 'A Reluctant Adornment'

Student artists explore themes of identity and self-expression through wearable art and adornment in this thought-provoking exhibition.

Cultural CommentaryArtGVSUStudent Work
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Grand Rapids Public Library Introduces New Vinyl Collection

Music lovers can now check out vinyl records from the Grand Rapids Public Library, celebrating the analog format's enduring appeal.

MusicVinylLibrariesCommunity
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Behind the Scenes on Campus Art

A look at the process, planning, and people behind Grand Valley's public art installations and how they enhance the campus environment.

Cultural CommentaryArtGVSUCampus Life
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Metalsmith Team Channels Grief in New Art Showcase at Grand Valley

Metalworking artists transform personal loss into powerful artistic expressions, creating pieces that resonate with themes of memory and mourning.

Cultural CommentaryArtGVSUExhibition
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GV Professor Powers Through Grief in Metalsmith Exhibition

A Grand Valley professor uses metalworking as a means of processing grief, creating emotionally resonant pieces for a campus exhibition.

Cultural CommentaryArtGVSUFaculty
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GV Professor Explores Pandemic Blues at ArtPrize

A Grand Valley professor channels pandemic experiences into an ArtPrize entry that reflects on isolation, loss, and resilience.

Cultural CommentaryArtGVSUArtPrize
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GV Dance Company Ditches Themes, Embraces Variety for Fall Dance Concert

The Grand Valley dance company takes a new approach for their fall concert, showcasing diverse styles and choreographic voices without a unifying theme.

Cultural CommentaryDanceGVSUPerformance
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GV New Music Ensemble Celebrates Lake Michigan

The New Music Ensemble presents works inspired by Lake Michigan, exploring the relationship between place and sound.

MusicGVSUConcertContemporary Music
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GV Hosts Renowned Pianist for Concert

Grand Valley welcomes an acclaimed pianist for an evening of classical and contemporary piano works.

MusicGVSUConcertPiano
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A 50-Minute Dive Into the World of Shakespearean Drama

An intensive exploration of Shakespeare's dramatic works brings the Bard's timeless themes to contemporary audiences in under an hour.

Cultural CommentaryTheatreShakespeareGVSU
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GV Features Unique Saxophone Performance

An innovative saxophone performance pushes the boundaries of the instrument, exploring extended techniques and contemporary compositions.

MusicGVSUConcertSaxophone
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GV Holds Second Installment of Writers Series

The Writers Series continues with readings from accomplished authors, offering insight into the creative writing process.

Cultural CommentaryLiteratureGVSUWriting
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Octubafest to Celebrate the Best of the Baritones

The annual Octubafest brings together tuba and euphonium players for a celebration of low brass music and community.

MusicGVSUConcertBrass
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The Tesla String Quartet Returns for a Birthday Celebration

The acclaimed Tesla String Quartet returns to Grand Valley for a special anniversary concert celebrating their ongoing partnership.

MusicGVSUConcertChamber Music
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GV Writers Series Began With Fiction Readings From Deesha Philyaw

Award-winning author Deesha Philyaw kicks off the Writers Series with readings from her acclaimed short story collection.

Cultural CommentaryLiteratureGVSUFiction
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GV Art Gallery Explores 'Canal by Canal' With Jason Reblando

Photographer Jason Reblando documents Chicago's waterways in an exhibition that examines urban infrastructure and environmental change.

Cultural CommentaryArtPhotographyGVSU
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GV Faces Off Against MSU in a Comedy Showdown

Grand Valley and Michigan State comedians compete in a friendly rivalry showcasing the best collegiate comedy talent.

Cultural CommentaryComedyGVSUCompetition
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GV Art Celebration Champions Outsider Art With 'Honest and Unrefined'

An exhibition celebrating outsider art highlights works that challenge traditional artistic conventions with raw, authentic expression.

Cultural CommentaryArtGVSUOutsider Art
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GV New Music Ensemble Tours National Parks, Hatches Fall Plans

The New Music Ensemble returns from a national parks tour and announces an ambitious season of contemporary music performances.

MusicGVSUConcertTour
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Circle Theatre Returns to Their Main Stage With 'Cabaret'

Circle Theatre makes a triumphant return to live performance with a production of the classic musical 'Cabaret,' bringing Weimar-era Berlin to life.

Cultural CommentaryTheatreMusicalPerformance
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Cultural Commentary

The Truth Hurts, So We Laugh: How Satire Can Restore Public Trust in the Media

In January 2024, I watched Jon Stewart's triumphant return to The Daily Show and thought: 'Why does this fake news feel more honest than the real stuff?' When comedians ask better questions than traditional press, what does that say about journalism?

MediaSatireJournalismOpinionCultural Commentary
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Artists Bring Abortion Rights to Center Stage

Local artists use their platforms to advocate for reproductive rights, creating powerful works that spark conversation and inspire action.

Cultural CommentaryArtSocial IssuesActivism
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