You’ve gotta love when a bad idea turns out to be great: Bad Idea Social Club live podcast with Ed from City Built Brewing in Grand Rapids.
Bad Idea Social Club
I’m not exactly sure how I became a fan of the Bad Idea Social Club podcast. I think it was a social media post from City Built Brewing giving a shout-out to Aaron McCall, who creates the brilliant designs on City Built’s cans and hosts the podcast. So, I guess I’ll blame Steph Harding, who handles the marketing for City Built.
Anyway, I was intrigued as the core of the podcast is in-depth conversations with creative folks about what they do and, more importantly, why they do it. Also, some of the big questions we are all curious about such as: Where do you find your inspiration? As well as hearing someone’s story of how they create and the path in life that led them to become a creator. After all, it is a lofty goal to become a creator of something. Creating a story, creating a painting, creating a bookshelf, creating yourself, all these things are intriguing (at least to me).
Curious About Creativity
My curiosity led me to download a few episodes of Bad Idea Social Club and dive in. About a third of the way into the first episode, I was hooked. I enjoyed Aaron’s laid-back approach to talking with his guests. These relaxed and casual conversations offer laughs along with insights. You are treated to a new perspective from someone engaged in a creative pursuit, whether that be photography, graphic design, acting, videography, or whatever.
In addition to the engaging conversations (which typically involve a shared brew—bonus points), Aaron is concerned for his guests’ well-being. He is upfront about mental health and asks questions to find out how his guests deal with some of the challenges we all face from time to time. He does this with love, care, and, of course, humor.
Bad Idea Social Club comes to City Built Brewing
I’d listened to an episode of Bad Idea Social Club, which was recorded live in Ann Arbor with graphic artist Jacob Rosenburg. It was a fun episode and turned me on to Jacob’s work. When I received word that Bad Idea Social Club was doing another live podcast recording and the guest would be City Built Brewing’s owner Edwin (Ed) Collazo, I picked up a couple of tickets to attend.
You got a beer for a low dough price, and your ticket proceeds went to support the Grand Rapids Pit Bull Alliance. This team of volunteers works to help keep dogs with their owners who may be facing financial hardship. They offer support services and free dog food (and cat food too).
Folks who arrived early before the start of the podcast were treated to an incredible brunch whipped up by the fantastic kitchen crew at City Built (which includes Ed’s wife, Sweet K). I sadly did not take pictures of the biscuits and gravy, which were awesome. Take a moment to call to mind a big plate of biscuits and gravy, and then read on.
Talking With Ed
Aaron’s friends and co-conspirators Joe Matteson and Amber Gray joined him at City Built Brewing. In addition to helping with the technical setup (sound, photos, guest wrangling, etc.), they handled introductions and post-show follow-up commentary. Think of them as the three peas in the Bad Idea Social Club pod.
Aaron’s conversation with Ed was fun and enlightening. Ed wasn’t sure he really fit into the role of a creative person. Aaron was quick to point out that successfully running a business and leading a team of people involving a variety of crafts (such as brewing, cooking, and service) requires not only great skill but also creative thinking. I couldn’t agree more.
Along the way, their conversation touched on Ed’s history and more. I don’t want to give away the whole list of themes covered; however, ghosts were mentioned. You’ll need to check out the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcast to get the full scoop. I believe this interview will be part of the next season of Bad Idea Social Club. If you subscribe now, you’ll be sure to get it.
Want to experience Bad Idea Social Club live?
If you missed experiencing the live recording of the Bad Idea Social Club podcast at City Built Brewing, have no fear. As I mentioned earlier, I’m a huge fan of the podcast. After finding out that they had done a live recording in Ann Arbor, I contacted Aaron about doing one at GIG—The Art of Michigan Music, and he was all in.
On Saturday, November 9th at 3:10p, we’ll have Bad Idea Social Club doing a live interview with the GIG 2024 poster artist, Craig Horky! I think this will be an outstanding interview and a ton of fun. Plus, it dovetails nicely into a weekend full of creative energy. You can score tickets now. Better yet, make a weekend of it! We’ve got discount hotel rates waiting for you.
Photos
There are a few more photos from the live recording of Bad Idea Social Club at City Built Brewing in Grand Rapids. Feel free to check them out.
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