Currently with Christal Frost
A weekly news roundup podcast featuring local Northern Michigan journalists explaining the top local stories of the week.
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Shrimp, Sirens, and Storefronts | wsg Art Bukowski, Traverse City Ticker | Week of Jan. 30, 2026
01/30/2026
Shrimp, Sirens, and Storefronts | wsg Art Bukowski, Traverse City Ticker | Week of Jan. 30, 2026
This week on Currently, Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) are joined by Art Bukowski (Traverse City Ticker) for a lively look at some of the stories making waves around Northern Michigan. Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City, and the National Writers Series, the premier home of passionate readers who love inspiring conversations with bestselling and award winning authors. The episode kicks off with a deep dive into locally grown shrimp — yes, shrimp! Art shares his story exploring how land-based aquaculture is taking shape in the region, along with Christal’s strong feelings about crustaceans and their possibly otherworldly origins. From there, the conversation turns to public safety, breaking down expanded ambulance services and updates from the Traverse City Fire Department. The episode wraps up with a roundup of the latest restaurant and retail news. Plus, Christal, Beth, and Art share what they’re looking forward to in the week ahead! It’s informative, unexpected, and very on-brand for Northern Michigan, all on this week’s episode of Currently. Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: Building Community Through Music | Gary Gatzke, Musician & Arts Facilitator
01/26/2026
The Conversation: Building Community Through Music | Gary Gatzke, Musician & Arts Facilitator
In this episode of Currently: The Conversation, Christal Frost sits down with Gary Gatzke — musician, educator, arts administrator, and one of the driving forces behind Northern Michigan’s vibrant classical music scene. This episode of The Conversation is presented by our lead supporter, TVC Cherry Capital Airport - Your Northern Michigan Connection. From his roots in Traverse City’s public school music programs to Interlochen Arts Academy and Juilliard, Gary reflects on the teachers, mentors, and moments that shaped his lifelong relationship with music. This discussion explores what it means to balance life as a professional performer and an arts administrator, from playing double bass on major stages with orchestras and opera companies to building accessible, community-centered arts education programs at Interlochen. Gary shares why playing music with other people matters at every age, how live performance creates connection, and what keeps artists coming back to the stage year after year. It’s a thoughtful, honest look at creativity, community, and the joy of showing up — for the music, for the people around you, and for the experiences that make Northern Michigan’s arts ecosystem thrive.
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Shelter, Shoreline & Supper | Week of January 23, 2026 | Traverse City News Roundup
01/23/2026
Shelter, Shoreline & Supper | Week of January 23, 2026 | Traverse City News Roundup
This week on Currently, Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) take a wide-ranging look at the stories shaping life in Northern Michigan. Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. The conversation begins with an update on the city’s evolving homelessness response and what the latest plans could mean in these colder months. From there, Beth breaks down the proposed riverfront design changes downtown and why the DDA’s vision is sparking conversation. The episode wraps with a lighter—but still meaningful—note, diving into local culinary news featuring celebrated Chef Pete Peterson AND big news for the team at Modern Bird. Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: Community is the Point | Joseph Beyer, Fresh Coast Film Festival Traverse City
01/19/2026
The Conversation: Community is the Point | Joseph Beyer, Fresh Coast Film Festival Traverse City
In this episode of Currently: The Conversation, Christal Frost sits down with freelance writer and filmmaker Joseph Beyer to talk about storytelling, community, and the power of shared experiences. Joe reflects on his creative path—from theater and freelance work to documentary filmmaking—and how those experiences shaped his belief that gathering people together matters more than the format itself. This episode of The Conversation is presented by our lead supporter, TVC Cherry Capital Airport - Your Northern Michigan Connection. The conversation explores the role of movie theaters, film festivals, and arts spaces in building community, including a deep dive into what inspired Joe to help bring the Fresh Coast Film Festival in Marquette to Traverse City. Along the way, Joe shares insights on accessibility, why informal spaces can be just as meaningful as traditional venues, and what makes an experience truly worth leaving the house for. It’s a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about creativity, connection, and why—especially right now—community-driven storytelling still matters.
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The Pines Are Gone. The Problem Isn’t. | wsg Ed Ronco, IPR News | Week of January 16, 2026
01/16/2026
The Pines Are Gone. The Problem Isn’t. | wsg Ed Ronco, IPR News | Week of January 16, 2026
On this week’s episode of Currently, we take a deeper look at the local stories prompting some of the biggest conversations across Northern Michigan. Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. IPR News Director Ed Ronco joins Christal and Traverse City Ticker's Beth Milligan to talk about a homelessness story that’s resonated strongly with his listeners this week. After Traverse City cleared the Pines encampment, homelessness became less visible but no less dire. We unpack why the story was pursued, what it revealed and the question many listeners are asking: What am I supposed to do with this information? We also touch on another story about the challenge, 10 months after 2025's big ice storm, that highlights the slow pace of federal response. Then, Beth shares updates on sustainability efforts involving TCAPS and Traverse City Light & Power, along with the latest restaurant and retail news from around the region. Plus, what everyone's looking forward to in the week ahead! Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: How a Cultural Anchor Continues to Serve the Community | Chad Lindsey, City Opera House
01/12/2026
The Conversation: How a Cultural Anchor Continues to Serve the Community | Chad Lindsey, City Opera House
On this episode of Currently: The Conversation, Christal Frost sits down with Chad Lindsey, Executive Director of the City Opera House, to talk about stewardship, relevance, and what it really means to run a historic cultural anchor in a modern community. Support for this episode comes from TVC Cherry Capital Airport—your Northern Michigan connection. Chad shares how his background as a performer and arts administrator shaped his approach to leadership—and why the Opera House was never meant to be an elite arts space, but a place where the community gathers first. From balancing fine arts and popular programming to keeping ticket prices accessible for locals, Chad explains the constant tension between mission, sustainability, and relevance. The conversation also explores the unique challenges of maintaining a 130-year-old building, the realities of fundraising and preservation, and why live performance still matters in a distracted world—especially for kids experiencing the magic of the stage for the first time. It’s a thoughtful look at how culture, place, and community intersect in downtown Traverse City—and what it takes to ensure a historic institution continues to serve the people who live here.
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Faith, Zoning, and a Town Divided in Leland | wsg Jacob Wheeler, Glen Arbor Sun | Week of Jan. 9, 2026
01/09/2026
Faith, Zoning, and a Town Divided in Leland | wsg Jacob Wheeler, Glen Arbor Sun | Week of Jan. 9, 2026
On this week’s episode of Currently, we’re covering the local stories everyone’s talking about across Northern Michigan. Support for "Currently" comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Glen Arbor Sun editor Jacob Wheeler joins us to discuss a proposed youth ministry “clubhouse” in downtown Leland that has ignited debate over zoning, parental rights, and religious freedom. Traverse City Ticker head writer Beth Milligan shares updates on Blair Township developments and a busy Traverse City agenda, including the Carnegie/Bijou RFP and parking projects. Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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2025 Year in Review | Week of January 6, 2026 | Traverse City News Roundup
01/02/2026
2025 Year in Review | Week of January 6, 2026 | Traverse City News Roundup
It’s a special year-end wrap-up on Currently. Host Christal Frost is joined by Beth Milligan and special guest Craig Manning to look back at some of the biggest local stories of 2025, from major headlines in Traverse City and Leelanau County to quick updates from the week’s news. The the group shares their favorite books, shows, podcasts, and other standout picks from the year, before reflecting on what’s ahead in 2026. Support for "Currently" comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: A Smarter Way to Care for Aging Parents | Nicole Farkas & Lori Wells, PACE North
12/22/2025
The Conversation: A Smarter Way to Care for Aging Parents | Nicole Farkas & Lori Wells, PACE North
Caring for aging loved ones can feel overwhelming…especially when you don’t know what help exists. On this episode of The Conversation, Christal Frost sits down with Nicole Farkas and Lori Wells from PACE North to break down what PACE is, how it works, and why so many families don’t learn about it until they’re already in crisis. The discussion explores how PACE’s wraparound model supports older adults in staying at home, the challenges families face navigating senior services, and the misconceptions that keep people from seeking help sooner. With real-world examples and statewide insight, this episode offers clarity, perspective, and practical next steps for anyone supporting an aging parent or loved one.
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A New Parking Deck? | Week of December 19, 2025
12/19/2025
A New Parking Deck? | Week of December 19, 2025
This week on Currently, Christal Frost and Beth Milligan return for an OG episode packed with local updates as Traverse City heads into the holidays. Support for "Currently" comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. We break down the proposed new downtown TC parking deck, share additional city news, and check in on county updates, including budget approvals, marijuana grants, and the future of NMC’s Boardman Lake campus. Plus, we wrap things up with restaurant and retail roundup and what we’re each looking forward to this weekend Currently is a Compass Local Podcast, produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: One Mentor Can Change Everything | Cecilia Chesney, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan
12/15/2025
The Conversation: One Mentor Can Change Everything | Cecilia Chesney, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan
On this episode of Currently: The Conversation, Christal Frost sits down with Cecilia Chesney, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan—also known as Bigs Up North—to talk about the power of consistent, one-to-one mentorship. Cecilia shares how the organization supports hundreds of youth across our five-county region, why careful matching and long-term commitment matter, and how having a trusted adult can help young people rediscover confidence, hope, and possibility. The conversation explores the challenges facing youth today, reflects on the organization’s decades-long impact, and looks ahead to plans for expanding mentorship across the region. Cecilia also offers a message for anyone considering becoming a Big—and why simply showing up can change a life. To learn more or get involved, visit BigsUpNorth.org.
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A Lot in the Works Around Traverse City | Week of December 12, 2025
12/12/2025
A Lot in the Works Around Traverse City | Week of December 12, 2025
On this week’s Currently, we’re diving into a full slate of updates on many ongoing local issues. Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. In this OG “Christal and Beth” show, Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) runs us through a proposed campus for Traverse City Light & Power, what’s happening with familiar downtown landmarks like the Carnegie Building, the Bijou, and the CityOpera House, plus Camp Greilick reopening to the public, local park grant news, and quick hits on airport-related projects, including a hotel update and the return of the Blue Angels. "Currently" is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: Why 217 Recovery Is Changing Lives in Northern Michigan | Corey & Marney Winfield
12/08/2025
The Conversation: Why 217 Recovery Is Changing Lives in Northern Michigan | Corey & Marney Winfield
In this episode of The Conversation, Christal Frost sits down with Corey and Marney Winfield, co-founders of 217 Recovery, a Traverse City nonprofit redefining what recovery can look like. With honesty, humor, and lived experience, they share their personal journeys through addiction and the turning points that sparked their mission to build an organization rooted in compassion, dignity, and hope. They also unpack the realities of substance use disorder, the stigma still surrounding it, and why peer-to-peer support remains one of the most powerful tools for change. Christal, Corey, and Marney dig into the culture of addiction in a tourist town, the growth of Northern Michigan’s recovery community, and how 217 has expanded from simple rides to treatment into free recovery coaching, community events, and recovery-friendly workplace training. Whether you’re in recovery, love someone who is, or want to better understand addiction, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and a clear message: recovery is possible, and it doesn’t have to be lonely.
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Up North Nonprofits Holding the Line | wsg Jillian Manning | Week of Dec. 5, 2025
12/05/2025
Up North Nonprofits Holding the Line | wsg Jillian Manning | Week of Dec. 5, 2025
In this week’s episode of Currently, host Christal Frost is joined by Northern Express editor Jillian Manning and Ticker reporter Beth Milligan to break down the top stories across northern Michigan. Support for "Currently" comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. We begin with Jillian’s reporting on the growing strain on local nonprofits as deep cuts to the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding leaves the Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center and the Women’s Resource Center scrambling to meet rising needs. She also highlights the Elk Rapids nonprofit Do a Little Good, whose volunteer-driven efforts—including a new 24/7 Little Free Food Library—are quietly making a big difference for families facing food insecurity. Beth then brings updates from county and city government, including the narrow county vote to back $71 million in airport bonds, progress on Project Alpha, and the city commission’s unanimous decision to appoint Benjamin Marentette as permanent city manager. "Currently" is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: The Future of Community Philanthropy | Alison Metiva, Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation
12/01/2025
The Conversation: The Future of Community Philanthropy | Alison Metiva, Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation
In this episode, Christal sits down with Alison Metiva, the incoming President and CEO of the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, an organization that has quietly but powerfully shaped northern Michigan for more than 30 years. With nearly two decades inside the Foundation, Alison reflects on her journey from grantmaking to operations to the top leadership role, and what that path has taught her about partnership, collaboration, and the evolving needs of our region. Together, she and Christal unpack the rapidly changing funding landscape—from federal and state cuts to shrinking support for housing, childcare, infrastructure, and environmental programs—and what those shifts mean for local nonprofits that rely on those dollars. Alison shares how the Foundation is adapting its approach to both fundraising and grantmaking, stepping further into its role as a community convener and connector. From distributing over $330,000 in recent Community Funds grants to navigating emerging priorities such as housing, workforce challenges, and mental health, she outlines a vision for a more resilient and responsive future. It’s a thoughtful conversation about leadership, trust, and what it takes to keep northern Michigan strong, especially in a moment when the safety net is being stretched thinner than ever.
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Mountain Magic & Downtown Momentum | wsg Art Bukowski | Week of Nov. 28, 2025
11/28/2025
Mountain Magic & Downtown Momentum | wsg Art Bukowski | Week of Nov. 28, 2025
This week on "Currently," Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) are joined by reporter Art Bukowski to dive into three big local stories. Support for "Currently" comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. Art brings us the latest on Sugarloaf, where the Leelanau Conservancy has officially raised the $8 million needed to begin site planning — a major step toward eventually opening the iconic mountain to the public. He also explains why the property’s anonymous donation is one of the most remarkable preservation moves our region has seen. Beth updates us on Boardman Lake developments, including the Mill District groundbreaking, Brick Wheels’ future headquarters, new public access, and the latest on the TCAPS Administration Building’s transformation into workforce housing, office space, and condos. We wrap with downtown project updates from the DDA: the new Farmers Market Pavilion design, a recommendation to keep State, Pine, and Boardman two-way, and the next phase of Rotary Square. "Currently" is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: The Future of Cherry Capital Airport | Kevin Klein
11/24/2025
The Conversation: The Future of Cherry Capital Airport | Kevin Klein
Christal sits down with Kevin Klein, Executive Director of Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), to unpack the rapid growth transforming northern Michigan’s hometown airport. Kevin explains what’s driving record-breaking passenger numbers, how TVC is adapting to a surge in local and visitor travel, and why this moment reflects Traverse City’s evolution as a regional hub. They discuss the airport’s upcoming major terminal expansion, new parking additions, and the challenges of operating a facility built for far fewer passengers than it now serves. Kevin also breaks down funding details, community feedback, and how TVC plans to maintain Traverse City’s small-town feel while preparing for the future. It’s a concise, forward-looking discussion with the leader guiding one of the region’s most important assets.
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Food Fight: Thanksgiving Pie Edition | wsg Gary Gatzke | Week of Nov. 21, 2025 | Traverse City News Roundup
11/21/2025
Food Fight: Thanksgiving Pie Edition | wsg Gary Gatzke | Week of Nov. 21, 2025 | Traverse City News Roundup
This week, Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) updates listeners on the latest developments in the downtown Traverse City parking deck shooting, including the suspects’ arraignments, charges, bond decisions, and what comes next in court. Support for "Currently" comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. They also break down the fast-moving news out of Kalkaska, where the developer behind a proposed 1,400-acre data center abruptly pulled the plug after significant public pushback and legislative opposition. Then it’s Beth’s always-popular restaurant and retail roundup, featuring new openings, closings, and business moves shaping downtown Traverse City and beyond. Finally—just in time for Thanksgiving—it’s the return of FOOD FIGHT: Thanksgiving Pie Edition, with Christal, Beth, and guest Gary Gatzke taste-testing apple, pumpkin, and pecan pies from Third Coast Bakery, Grand Traverse Pie Co. and 9 Bean Rows, respectively, to declare this year’s holiday favorites. "Currently" is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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Special Report: What We Know About the Weekend Violence in Traverse City
11/17/2025
Special Report: What We Know About the Weekend Violence in Traverse City
In this special report from Currently, Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) outline what’s been confirmed about the killing of 32-year-old Lawrence Boyd IV, a Traverse City Parking Services employee found shot in the Larry C. Hardy Parking Deck. Police believe his death is connected to another Saturday night incident in which two teens fled from officers, and, during the chase, one fired multiple shots at police. Both suspects are now in custody, and police confirm a firearm has been recovered. After this podcast was recorded, it was confirmed the two suspects are expected to be arraigned tomorrow (Tuesday, November 18) at 1:30 pm.
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The Conversation: Healing Through Horses: Peace Ranch | Jackie Kaschel and Kim Walton
11/17/2025
The Conversation: Healing Through Horses: Peace Ranch | Jackie Kaschel and Kim Walton
In this episode, Christal sits down with Peace Ranch Founder Jackie Kaschel and Executive Director Kim Walton to explore how horses help people heal when words fall short. Together, they unpack the origins of Peace Ranch, the science behind equine-assisted trauma recovery, and the profound ways horses mirror human emotion to restore trust, calm, and safety. Jackie shares how Peace Ranch has grown over 15 years into a nationally recognized model, while Kim reflects on her diverse background with land stewardship and wild horse programs — and what brought her back to Northern Michigan. The conversation also previews Peace Ranch’s new retreat center, designed for deeper healing experiences for families, veterans, first responders, and more. A hopeful, heartfelt look at trauma, resilience, and the human-horse connection — and the community that makes it possible.
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Land of 9,000 Airbnbs | wsg Craig Manning | Week of Nov. 14, 2025
11/14/2025
Land of 9,000 Airbnbs | wsg Craig Manning | Week of Nov. 14, 2025
In this week’s episode of "Currently," Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) are joined by guest Craig Manning (Traverse City/Leelanau Ticker) to break down some of the biggest stories shaping northern Michigan right now. Support for "Currently" comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. The show kicks off with a look inside Northern Michigan’s short-term rental market. With nearly 9,000 Airbnbs spread across the region, Craig walks us through the new data, how it impacts local housing, and what communities are doing to respond. Next, they run through a high-energy roundup of local sports highlights— including district titles, standout coaching seasons and field goal controversies. After the break, Beth dives into upcoming Traverse City Light & Power changes, explaining why funding shifts and rate adjustments are back on the table...and what they will mean for residents. The team also covers the latest updates from Cherry Capital Airport, including terminal expansions, new gate configurations, and what airport leadership shared with county commissioners about preparing for continued passenger growth. If you want a fast, clear, journalist-driven breakdown of what’s happening in northern Michigan—from housing pressures to infrastructure changes to hometown sports—this episode of "Currently" has you covered. "Currently" is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: The Stories That Connect Us | Kabie Stein, Here:Say Storytelling
11/10/2025
The Conversation: The Stories That Connect Us | Kabie Stein, Here:Say Storytelling
Host Christal Frost sits down with Kabie Stein, founder and creative director of Here:Say Storytelling, the beloved Traverse City series where community members take the stage to share true, first-person stories. Now entering its 11th season, Here:Say has become a Northern Michigan institution, and Kabie and Christal explore the origins of the series, what inspired its creation more than a decade ago, and why storytelling continues to resonate so deeply today. Kabie also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming 2025–26 Here:Say season, launching November 19, including new themes, evolving storytellers, and a few surprises that keep the series fresh while staying true to its roots. "Currently: The Conversation" brings you authentic voices and meaningful stories from the people shaping life in Northern Michigan. A Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: Building a Stronger Workforce | Janie McNabb, Networks Northwest
11/03/2025
The Conversation: Building a Stronger Workforce | Janie McNabb, Networks Northwest
In this episode of Currently: The Conversation, host Christal Frost sits down with Janie McNabb, CEO of Networks Northwest, to explore the state of workforce development across northwest Michigan — and why investing in people is essential to the region’s economic future. From its 50-year history to its evolving mission, Janie shares how Networks Northwest supports jobseekers, employers, and communities across ten counties through initiatives like Michigan Works!, adult education, apprenticeships, and the Going PRO Talent Fund. Together, Christal and Janie discuss the shifting dynamics of Michigan’s labor market, the industries facing the greatest challenges, and the innovative ways local partnerships are addressing barriers like housing, transportation, and childcare. They also take a candid look at the impact of recent state and federal funding cuts — and what’s truly at stake for both workers and businesses if workforce investment continues to decline. Whether you’re an employer, policymaker, or community member, this conversation highlights how workforce development is more than a program — it’s a blueprint for stronger communities and a more resilient regional economy. Currently: The Conversation is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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Small Towns, Big Decisions: The Future of Local Control | Week of Oct. 31, 2025
10/31/2025
Small Towns, Big Decisions: The Future of Local Control | Week of Oct. 31, 2025
This week on Currently, we’re diving into how small-town governance shapes life across Northern Michigan, and what happens when communities rethink the rules altogether. Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. First-time guest Austin Rowlader, a freelance journalist contributing to Bridge Michigan, Interlochen Public Radio, and The Antrim Review, joins Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) to explore a bold and controversial proposal in Banks Township in Antrim County: the potential removal of all zoning ordinances. What would that mean for residents, developers, and the future of land use in rural Michigan? Then, the conversation widens to a broader challenge: how townships across the state are struggling to manage budgets and finances, especially in rural areas where resources and oversight can be limited. Christal, Beth, and Austin unpack the implications of these changes and what they reveal about the shifting landscape of local governance. Plus, Beth brings her regular round-up of restaurant & retail updates and a look at upcoming road projects. Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: Fighting Hunger, Reducing Waste - Inside Food Rescue’s Mission | Taylor Moore
10/27/2025
The Conversation: Fighting Hunger, Reducing Waste - Inside Food Rescue’s Mission | Taylor Moore
Christal sits down with Taylor Moore, Director of Food Rescue of Northwest Michigan, for a timely and heartfelt discussion about the growing challenge of food insecurity across our region. Every year, Food Rescue collects, re-packs, and distributes over 2.2 million pounds of food—enough to create 1.8 million meals across Northern Michigan. The program stands at the intersection of two urgent issues: food waste and hunger. But as Taylor explains, the need is accelerating—and a looming federal crisis could make it even worse. With the ongoing government shutdown threatening to pause SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, thousands of local families, seniors, Veterans and working adults who rely on monthly SNAP support to afford groceries could soon find themselves without that lifeline. The ripple effects would hit food pantries and meal sites especially hard, as more people turn to community resources as federal support slows or stops. Christal and Taylor discuss how Food Rescue and its partners across the Northwest Food Coalition are preparing to respond, what gaps they’re already seeing, and how local collaboration, volunteers, and donors can help cushion the impact for neighbors in need. They also explore the logistics behind rescuing nearly 8,000 pounds of fresh food every day, the partnerships that make it possible, and the hope that keeps this mission moving forward. Currently: The Conversation shares meaningful stories from the people shaping Northern Michigan’s future, real conversations about community, compassion, and action. A Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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Fresh Coast Film Fest is coming to Traverse City | wsg Joe Beyer | Week of Oct. 24, 2025
10/24/2025
Fresh Coast Film Fest is coming to Traverse City | wsg Joe Beyer | Week of Oct. 24, 2025
This week on Currently, we’re taking you behind the scenes of a brand-new festival coming next spring: the Fresh Coast Film Festival: Traverse City. Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. Arts and culture contributor Joe Beyer joins Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) to share how this beloved Marquette-based festival is bringing its mix of outdoor adventure, environmental storytelling and community spirit to the Boardman Lake District. Plus, Beth brings the latest local headlines on freshwater issues, updates on Leelanau County’s only marijuana dispensary and the future of the TAG program at TCAPS. Currently with Christal Frost is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: Tackling Northern Michigan’s Housing Crisis | Yarrow Brown, Housing North
10/20/2025
The Conversation: Tackling Northern Michigan’s Housing Crisis | Yarrow Brown, Housing North
In this episode of Currently: The Conversation, host Christal Frost sits down with Yarrow Brown, Executive Director of Housing North, to unpack one of Northwest Michigan’s most pressing challenges: the housing crisis. From young families and seniors to essential workers and professionals, more and more residents are finding it difficult to secure a safe, attainable place to live. Christal and Yarrow explore the factors driving the shortage, the impact it’s having on local communities and economies, and the innovative partnerships and policy efforts working to turn things around. Whether you’re a renter, a homeowner, or simply someone who cares about the future of our region, this episode sheds light on how collaboration, education, and advocacy are key to building stronger, more sustainable communities across Northern Michigan. Currently: The Conversation — thoughtful stories and meaningful discussions that go beyond the headlines. New episodes every Monday at , on Facebook and YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. A Compass Local Podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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Building a Better Traverse City? | Week of Oct. 17, 2025
10/17/2025
Building a Better Traverse City? | Week of Oct. 17, 2025
This week on Currently, it’s a classic Christal-and-Beth episode as Beth Milligan, Head Writer for the Traverse City Ticker, returns to break down the latest local news. Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. From the newly unveiled Rotary Square plan to updates on Complete Streets, the Bijou and Carnegie buildings, and big changes coming to East Bay Township, Christal and Beth cover what’s going on. Currently with Christal Frost is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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The Conversation: "Rocky Horror" at Old Town Playhouse | Wes Curry & Tanner Presswood
10/13/2025
The Conversation: "Rocky Horror" at Old Town Playhouse | Wes Curry & Tanner Presswood
“Let’s do the Time Warp again—Traverse City style.” In the premiere episode of Currently: The Conversation, host Christal Frost kicks off the series with a lively and heartfelt dive into the return of The Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Old Town Playhouse, back for the first time in 20 years. Christal is joined by Old Town Playhouse Artistic Director Wes Curry and actor Tanner Presswood (a.k.a. “Rocky” himself) for a spirited talk about the magic of community theater, the cult legacy of Rocky Horror, and how volunteer-driven productions bring people together across generations. From the show’s playful chaos to its deeper themes of identity, inclusion, and chosen family, this conversation celebrates what makes local theater such a vital part of Northwest Michigan’s creative heartbeat. Plus, hear how Rocky Horror’s interactive traditions are being reimagined for 2025 audiences. Currently: The Conversation is the companion podcast to the flagship news roundup Currently with Christal Frost, bringing you deeper stories, voices, and perspectives from around Northern Michigan — new episodes drop every Monday. The Conversation is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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Lights, Camera, Frankfort! | Week of Oct. 10, 2025 | wsg Nick Loud
10/10/2025
Lights, Camera, Frankfort! | Week of Oct. 10, 2025 | wsg Nick Loud
Coming up on Currently, it’s movies and businesses on the move! Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends. Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) welcome back Nick Loud (The Boardman Review) to talk about his new role as Communications Director for the Garden Theatre in Frankfort and to preview the upcoming Frankfort Film Festival, October 15-19. From acclaimed indie features to crowd-pleasing documentaries, Nick shares what makes this small-town celebration of cinema such a big deal. Then, Beth has updates on the YMCA expansion and the latest restaurant and retail news. Currently with Christal Frost is a Compass Local podcast, produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
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