American Worker with Tony Grace

American Worker (Episode 009) | A Different Fast Track w/Jordan Munsters

Jordan Munsters shares his path from changing tires and rising through the ranks at Bridgestone to stepping off the corporate fast track and building something of his own. That journey ultimately led to the launch of High Caliber Karting, an indoor racing and entertainment destination in Lansing, Michigan.
In this conversation, Jordan reflects on mentorship, building strong teams, surviving a near-fatal accident and the long road to recovery, and the perspective that comes from taking real risks. We talk through international projects, hard-earned business lessons, and how his priorities evolved along the way.

American Worker (Episode 008): India with the Graces

Over the course of the episode, Tony and the crew recount how a chance encounter at SEMA led to a dealer partnership with Indian tire maker Ralson Tires, later leading to an invitation to recently tour their plant in India. They share highlights from the trip — plant visits, rich cultural experiences, memorable meals like lamb masala and paneer tikka, sunrise at the Taj Mahal, an elephant ride at Amber Fort, and deep conversations with Ralson team members. The episode reflects on India’s rapid economic growth, powerful hospitality, and the lasting relationships formed during the visit.

American Worker (Episode 007): The Human Side Of Business with Jeff Calhoun

Jeff Calhoun’s path has never followed a straight line but has always arrived where it was meant to be. From the wild world of minor league baseball, to mentoring students at CMU, and now leading a regional nonprofit, there has been one constant. It’s about people.
Jeff’s story is one of leadership, authenticity, and a conviction that building connection begins with truly listening. In his conversation with Tony, Jeff details the lessons learned from early “failures”, the value of creativity in unexpected places, and the importance of finding an anchor during choppy waters. He shares the creative promotions he pioneered, lessons on team building, and why hiring the right boss matters. Now Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Jeff discusses how strong community partnerships will always power impact. 

American Worker (Episode 005): A Worthy Career Change with Jeremy Worthington

Jeremy Worthington transformed his career, jumping from engineering to founding CrossFit Worthy in Mount Pleasant over 13 years ago. He explains how his passion for fitness and dedication to helping others shaped his path and impacted his community, as well as how an unexpected partnership led to a door opening that he couldn't ignore.
In this episode, Jeremy shares his personal challenges and triumphs, including the pivotal moments that led him to embrace CrossFit as a lifelong pursuit. Learn about the growth of CrossFit Worthy and the value of building a supportive community. Explore how Jeremy balances his roles as a business owner, coach, husband, and father, and his aspirations for CrossFit Worthy's future. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or seeking motivation in your own journey, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement to keep pushing boundaries.

American Worker (Episode 004): Work Hard, Stay Humble with Third Coast Craftsman

In today’s episode, we take a behind the scenes look at the world of a master of one’s craft, Chris Schoenberg of Third Coast Craftsman. Chris’s titles include woodworker, timber framer, content creator, and most recently added, President and Co-Founder of Temple Tool Co. Though he would never let you know it, Chris’ following across the web approaches nearly a million subscribers. We were lucky enough to go on-site to Chris’ property, where an in-progress original timber frame home overlooks a spacious workshop filled with vintage tools, projects that can only be described as true art, and reminders of where he came from. It’s safe to say that this is where his visions come to life.
Guided by the legacy of family and generations past, Chris shares how early summers in the woodshop alongside his grandfather sparked a lifelong journey of building and creation. We’ll talk about his time in the Air Force as a nuclear weapons technician, the roots of his woodworking revival, and the launch of Temple Tool Co., where the history of the East meets the ingenuity of the West, resulting in the perfect blend of high-quality, finely crafted tools. Chris' story is one of family, craftsmanship, and finding purpose in doing what you love.
Third Coast Craftsman
https://www.youtube.com/c/thirdcoastcraftsman
Temple Tool Co.
https://templetoolco.com/
 

American Worker (Episode 003): Blue Collar Marketing with Rob Brown

In this extremely resourceful episode of the American Worker Podcast, we sit down with Rob Brown, the Media Producer at Bandit Industries, a renowned mid-Michigan manufacturer specializing in tree care and recycling equipment. Rob provides insights on marketing for any company within the worlds of blue-collar and skilled-trade work, demonstrating that storytelling and authenticity are at the heart of effective marketing within any industry. Rob shares his inspiring journey from a creatively inclined child to his pivotal experiences as a young adult that reshaped his career path. He delves into the significance of courageously embracing opportunities that come your way and highlights a transformative career switch that opened doors to nationwide connections and creativity. 

American Worker (Episode 002): Automotive Artistry with Blake Shaw

In this episode, Tony Grace explores the world of automotive artistry with Blake Shaw, the innovative owner of Shaw's Auto Body in Ithaca, Michigan. Blake shares his fascinating journey from painting toy cars as a kid in his dad's mechanic shop to operating a renowned collision repair and custom fabrication business.
Blake opens up about the challenges and rewards of running a successful auto body business, including the importance of teamwork, the joy of building high-end hot rods, and the lessons learned from family and mentors. 

American Worker (Episode 001): Generational Business with Tony Grace

Tony Grace is a father, husband, brother, and an enthusiast of all things "fast cars and freedom". He is also the CEO of Alma Tire Companies, a fourth-generation company that operates within several sectors of the transportation industry across the state of Michigan. In this episode, he walks us through his early years as a "nerdy" kid finding his way towards community and success, what it was like growing up with a family of business owners, his journey through college that led him across the country, his return to Alma Tire Companies, and his growth as a leader over the past decade.