About Us

Meet the founder

Tim Dye

I’m a Grand Rapids based media and strategic communications professional who worked in leadership positions at four of Michigan’s largest and most influential broadcast news outlets. Since 2013, I have served as a communications consultant providing a wide range of public relations services to clients including issue management, crisis communications, news event planning, media relations and media coaching. I excel at delivering a highly personalized style of service, customized to your communication needs.

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C Valade
Consulting

In more than 30 years as the leader of West Michigan’s most established business publication, it was apparent many great stories were waiting to be shared. Now, as the President and CEO of C Valade Consulting, I’m focused on helping businesses grow by leveraging my network of top business executives and my abilities as a writer, editor and executive.

As the executive editor of the Grand Rapids Business Journal, one of seven publications that I created and managed at Gemini Publications, I developed trusted relationships in the business community. Each year, GRBJ proudly hosted events recognizing business and governmental leaders, with specific emphasis on diversity, minority-owned businesses, female leaders, and women business owners. These events grew in stature and were sustained over dozens of years, built on the trust we established in the business community and the integrity of the selection process.

Tim and I have known each other for more than 20 years, competing against each other at times and collaborating on projects at other times. Now as strategic partners we are combining our talents and our media expertise to help clients across the state tell their story and grow their business. I say “cheers” to that!

Tim and I first crossed paths over 20 years ago, and I couldn’t be more excited to be working with him again. While our professional backgrounds are similar, our individual journeys have helped us develop a unique yet complementary skill set that will benefit clients.

Thiessen & Co specializes in providing simple, clear communications. We develop and implement strategies to convey sensitive or complicated information in an easy-to-understand way. In addition, we’ve also crafted and managed social media strategies to help clients grow their online presence and engage with their audience. We have extensive experience in the non-profit sector, which includes work with local, statewide, and international organizations.

Together, this strategic partnership will allow Tim and I to deliver a personalized, client-focused approach to meet a client’s complex communication needs.

Rick Chapla
Consulting

Planning and economic development – it’s been a central part of my professional life for more than 40 years – and it’s something I continue to do with my own company, Rick Chapla Consulting. I specialize in forming strategic plans and building relationships that foster economic development throughout West Michigan.

My background in urban planning, economic development, government affairs, grant writing and project management were honed during my 23 years with The Right Place, Inc., and 16 years as Director of Planning and Economic Development for the city of Muskegon. I use that knowledge now to assist clients in navigating the complexities with federal, state and local offices, so that they can achieve their project goals.

I have known Tim for more than 30 years and I welcome the opportunity partner with him of future ventures that require our specialized skills.

Endorsements

“When I served as the general manager of four over-the-air TV stations in northern Michigan, I had an obligation to seek out programming that was timely and relevant to the viewers in our region. Tim and I collaborated on a number of initiatives to produce just such content. In 2018, Tim worked with our news management to produce a live Town Hall program about the ongoing opioid epidemic in Michigan and what steps could be taken to combat it. With his background in media, Tim understands how to best position his client in a way that is also beneficial to the media outlet and the audience.”

Kevin DunawayFmr. General Manager,
Heritage TV Group
“The Better Business Bureau of Western Michigan serves accredited businesses in 38 counties. The Board of Directors is composed of talented business and community leaders who help deliver value to the BBB’s 4,200 members. When Tim joined our board in 2018 it was immediately clear that he was prepared to offer media, marketing and business counsel that made our regional office stronger. Tim also serves on the marketing and Trust Award committees, providing insight that strengthens the BBB’s overall brand position in the market. The staff greatly values and appreciates the contributions Tim brings to the BBB mission!”

Phil CatlettFmr. President & CEO,
BBB of Western Mich.
“During my 13 year TV news career I encountered countless business and community leaders. Some of these individuals became personal mentors to me, helping me to better understand the events, decisions and policies that made news in our state. Tim Dye was one of the more impactful people for me in that group. I first met him in 2007 when I interned at FOX-17. Since then I have called on him over the years to seek input on journalistic practices and career counseling. More than anything he has served as a trusted advisor who has helped me assess situations so that I could make better decisions regarding my personal and professional life. I’m thankful to have such a valuable person in my circle of friends.”

Leon HendrixCommunications Lead,
Spectrum Health
“May I highly recommend Tim Dye for service! I have had the pleasure of working with Tim in his role as a public relations specialist. As host of The WGVU Morning Show, I was the “media receiver” of his interview pitches. His guests were highly appropriate, prepared and polished. Tim is professional, thorough, attentive to details and a PLEASURE to work with! He is committed to the community as demonstrated by the many events he attends and has a strong reputation as a leader in the media business as a result of his work as a news director for two Michigan award winning television stations. Tim knows his craft and his passion is evident in any encounter.”

Shelley IrwinHost/Producer,
WGVU Broadcasting