THE mostly TRAVERSE CITY

Corey Birchmeier is the operating partner of Fleet Feet Traverse City, where he helps people find the perfect shoes to support their goals—whether they’re longtime runners, new walkers, or anyone dealing with stubborn foot pain. Driven by a passion for health and community, Corey leads walking, running, and training groups that meet people where they are and keep Traverse City moving. His mission...

Peter Garthe is a true Traverse City original—someone who embodies community in every sense. Known for his incredible memory, Peter can recall names, numbers, and graduation years with ease, and he does mental math faster than most people can open an app. But what makes him unforgettable isn’t his mind—it’s his warmth. Peter has a smile that shows up before he does, a laugh that fills a room, and...

Cathy is the founder of Step Up Northern Michigan, a local nonprofit that supports six school-based food and basic-needs pantries throughout the region. Food insecurity and lack of transportation create significant barriers for many students and families, often limiting students’ ability to reach their full potential. For more than a decade, Step Up Northern Michigan has partnered with Food Rescue...

Jordyn Ross, I’m the Development Director at Mt. Holiday, where I lead fundraising, sponsorships, and community engagement to support our mission of providing accessible year-round recreation for all. My focus is on building strong partnerships, expanding donor support, and developing programs that connect local families, youth, and organizations to the mountain and ensuring Mt. Holiday remains a...

Tyler Franz is a Traverse City native whose story proves you sometimes have to leave home to truly see it. After years away, Tyler returned with a fresh perspective and a renewed appreciation for the lakes, landscapes, and people that make this place special. Today, he channels that inspiration into two passions that connect him deeply with the community: skateboarding and photography. Whether he’...

I was born and raised in Traverse City. Attended Central High School, later on attending NMC and FSU. Working my way through college at Red Ginger, eventually starting with Busters as an installer. I worked these 2 jobs for 3 years, eventually going to just Busters as it grew. Helping scale the business I knew this was a path I wanted to go down. Chris Peron (my business partner) eventually opened...

Rod Trump, a Florida-based tech entrepreneur and angel investor, is reviving High Pointe with Tom Doak on board for a $24 million course renovation. Trump, who holds a leadership position at Pine Tree Golf Club in Boynton Beach, decided to spearhead the revival effort. Read more about it here!  https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikedojc/2023/02/16/high-pointe-golf-clubs-24-million-revival-speeding-alon...

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Maurie Allen is the owner of Captain’s Quarters, a men’s fine clothing and haberdashery store in Traverse City, known for its classic style with a relaxed “up north” vibe. A lifelong admirer of Northern Michigan, Maurie has built his business around quality, craftsmanship, and creating a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. On this episode of The (mostly) Traverse City Podcast, he shares...

Tom Doak, one of the world’s most respected and original golf course architects, lives and works out of Traverse City. After graduating from Cornell University, he earned a scholarship that took him to St. Andrews, where he caddied and studied the great links of Scotland. That experience shaped his philosophy that golf should remain natural, challenging, and accessible to all. Having studied more...

Dr. Teri Stockwell is a chiropractor, educator, and proud Traverse City local. Growing up, she spent every summer at her family’s cottage, dreaming of one day calling Traverse City home. After graduating from Michigan State University, she began her career with TBAISD before pursuing further educational and family goals. In 1994, she returned to raise her children and built a thriving chiropractic...

Kevin Rhodes is the longtime Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Traverse City Philharmonic  (formerly Traverse Symphony Orchestra ). Known for his engaging stage presence and vibrant interpretations, Maestro Rhodes has captivated audiences in Northern Michigan and beyond for decades. Beyond his local leadership, he is an internationally respected conductor, having led performances wi...

Marcel Lenz, a PhD-educated farmer, is passionate about Leelanau Cellars and the future of viticulture and agriculture in Northern Michigan. His commitment to health and vitality drives his focus on renewable and responsible farming protocols, making him a hands-on influencer in the industry. He views his farm as a living laboratory, aiming to merge traditional wisdom with  Follow our other social...

A familiar name in TC, Dan’s family has touched the lives of many with kindness and care at their most vulnerable time at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Now “retired”, Dan's passion for aviation and his problem-solving spirit led him to found Legacy Aviation, an educational institution preparing students for lucrative careers in the aviation support industry.  Listen in as Dan talks about hi...

The Guillen familia has been part of our region since 1992. Chasing the American dream, they left Mexico and set roots in the Suttons Bay area in 1997.  The fruits of the large family’s spirit and passion is showing up and delighting taste buds all over our community.   https://laslagunastc.com/ https://www.instagram.com/taquerialaslagunas/ https://www.facebook.com/laslagunastq/ Follow our other s...

Doug Grove, a highly respected golf professional and long-time Director of Golf at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, dedicated his distinguished career to the game with a steadfast focus on service. A notable achievement was his integral role in the development of The Bear golf course, collaborating closely with the legendary golfer and course designer, Jack Nicklaus.  Follow our other socials! Faceb...

Courtney Lorenz is the award-winning entrepreneur behind Cultured Kombucha, a brand celebrated for its innovative flavors and commitment to local, sustainable practices. With a passion for crafting vibrant, health-focused beverages, Courtney has built a thriving business that reflects her dedication to community and well-being. Her journey from kombucha enthusiast to celebrated business owner is a...

Dave Bos is a farmer first, winemaker second, and lifelong student of the soil. Founder of BOS Wine and a respected biodynamic consultant, he’s spent over 25 years transforming vineyards through regenerative, whole-farm practices. Originally from Michigan, Dave honed his craft in Napa Valley, managing iconic vineyards like Grgich Hills Estate. His belief—that healthy soil creates exceptional wine—...

Tom Roen, a Traverse City resident and former professional baseball player, transitioned from the Detroit Tigers organization to a successful career as a coach and mentor. He draws on his experiences in professional sports to guide individuals and teams, emphasizing consistent effort and practical wisdom. Tom's deep community roots and dedication to helping others make him a respected figure...

Liz Belt, owner and operator of Intrepid Cycling Company in Traverse City, Michigan, and a dedicated board member of the Charlie Golf One Non-Profit, embodies fierce drive and ambition. Her passion extends beyond her businesses, deeply rooted in her advocacy for the outdoors and community, and an unwavering love for her country. Liz's commitment to service is undeniable, having made the pivot...

Follow our other socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577148764406   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themostlytraversecitypodcast/?hl=en   Watch interview here: https://www.youtube.com/@performancechirointc/videos  

Follow our other socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577148764406   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themostlytraversecitypodcast/?hl=en   Watch interview here: https://www.youtube.com/@performancechirointc/videos  

Ashley Torchio Dr. Ashley Torchio, DC, is a passionate chiropractor and co-founder of Pangea Chiropractic in Bend, Oregon. A Spencer, Iowa native, she earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College and spent years traveling across the U.S. and internationally, gaining experience through chiropractic missions and holistic health outreach before planting roots in Central Oregon. Known...

Mike DeVries Mike DeVries is a renowned golf course architect known for his minimalist approach and deep respect for the natural landscape. A Michigan native, he grew up playing at Crystal Downs, where his passion for classic course design was born. After studying landscape architecture at the University of Michigan and apprenticing with architects like Tom Doak and Tom Fazio, he launched his own...