THE mostly TRAVERSE CITY

Craig Silliven has the kind of stories you don’t simply hear—you feel.

One of the original graduates of Traverse City’s Great Lakes Maritime Academy, Craig went on to sail aboard the legendary Edmund Fitzgerald, making him one of a small number of people still able to share firsthand stories of life aboard the “Mighty Fitz.” Those memories and stories are now woven into John U. Bacon’s bestselling book, The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald.

But Craig’s story reaches well beyond the Fitz. A longtime Traverse City resident, he has family roots in the area that run deep, with generations of history along the shores of Spider Lake.

And, like any great sailor, Craig tells a story with a passion and pace that can transport you right onto the deck beside him.

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What began as one man's vision has become one of Northern Michigan's most beloved traditions. The Iceman Cometh isn't just a bike race—it's a celebration of the people, passion, and outdoor spirit that make this place so special.

In this episode of The Mostly Traverse City Podcast, we're bringing together Steve Brown, the founder and visionary behind the Iceman Cometh, and Kaye Paye, Executive Director of the National Cherry Festival Foundation, the organization now carrying the Iceman legacy forward.

From its humble beginnings, the Iceman has grown into an extraordinary November rite of passage, attracting more than 5,000 riders annually. We'll explore the story behind the race, the vision that started it all, and how an event that brings thousands together each fall has become something much bigger than a finish line.

For many, Iceman is the symbolic end of the riding season—a final celebration of dirt, determination, camaraderie, and the incredible community that surrounds it.

From the thrill of racing to the joy of simply being part of it, this is a story about what happens when a great idea becomes a community tradition.

And around here, that's a pretty great story to tell!

Want to be part of the Iceman experience?

Whether you're a rider, a spectator, or simply curious about this incredible Northern Michigan tradition, there's plenty to explore.

Follow the Iceman Cometh Challenge:

• Website: www.iceman.com
• Instagram: @icemancomethtcmi

More than 5,000 riders. One unforgettable community. One heck of a way to finish the season!

Tune in to The (mostly) Traverse City Podcast and hear the story behind the vision, the race, and the people who make it happen.

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Kimberly Berreth is a Traverse City native, massage therapist, and owner of Solstice Massage & Wellness—but the road that brought her there is the real story.

A lifelong athlete, Kim grew up pushing her body and navigating significant injuries. Then a near-fatal car accident changed everything. Recovery forced her to experience pain, trauma, rehabilitation, and healing from an entirely different perspective—and ultimately led her back to a calling she had felt since childhood: massage therapy.

In this episode, we talk about the journey from athlete to accident survivor to massage therapist, and how Kim’s own healing shaped the way she now cares for others. We explore resilience, body awareness, recovery, and why healing rarely happens in a straight line.

Today, through Solstice Massage & Wellness, Kim helps others reconnect with their bodies and become active participants in their own recovery.

Special offer for listeners: Mention The Mostly Traverse City Podcast and receive 15% off your first session at Solstice Massage & Wellness.

Instagram: @solsticemassagetc. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587753681296 

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Summer is the peak tourist season here in Traverse City, so we're bringing back a very special guest, Trevor Tkach, to chat about visitors and how he promotes the city. So sit back, grab a snack, and turn up your speaker! Welcome to the Mostly Traverse City Podcast!

Trevor Tkach is the President and CEO of Traverse City Tourism, where he leads efforts to promote the region as a year-round destination for visitors from around the world. A lifelong Michigander and passionate advocate for Northern Michigan, Trevor combines strategic vision with deep local roots to support sustainable tourism, regional growth, and community well-being. Under his leadership, Traverse City has earned national recognition for its natural beauty, vibrant downtown, and thriving food, wine, and outdoor scenes. Trevor also serves on several local and statewide boards, championing partnerships that elevate the area’s economy while preserving its charm and character.

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Stephen Ezell is an entrepreneur, innovator, and one of the leading voices in the growing movement toward conscious capitalism. As the founder and CEO of Truly Free, Stephen has built a company around a simple but powerful idea: families shouldn't have to choose between effective products and a healthy home.

Originally from New York, Stephen has built businesses around the world, but it was Northern Michigan that captured his heart. While the region's lakes, forests, and coastline first caught his attention, it was the people who convinced him to stay. He believes the true beauty of Northern Michigan isn't just found in its geography—it's found in its generosity, authenticity, entrepreneurial spirit, and the sense of community that makes this place unlike anywhere else.

Since launching Truly Free Home in 2015, Stephen has helped more than one million households eliminate harmful chemicals from their homes while preventing over 25 million single-use plastic containers from entering the environment through refillable cleaning systems. But his mission extends far beyond laundry and household products.

A passionate advocate for conscious consumerism, Stephen believes business should create value for people, communities, and the planet—not simply maximize profits. His work has earned recognition as an EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Henry Crown Fellow, Endeavor Entrepreneur, and multiple appearances on Inc.'s Best in Business list. He's also been recognized for his philanthropic efforts in combating human trafficking and for building companies that create meaningful jobs while making a lasting social impact.

On this episode of The mostly Traverse City Podcast, Stephen challenges conventional thinking about the products we bring into our homes, the companies we support, and the choices we make every day. From entrepreneurship and innovation to freedom, stewardship, and the future of conscious business, this is a conversation that may change the way you think about the world around you.

Learn more:

• Website: Truly Free
• Instagram: @trulyfreehome
• Facebook: Truly Free

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Chad Lindsey is the Executive Director of the City Opera House, where he's helping lead one of Northern Michigan's most treasured cultural landmarks into its next chapter. A Michigan native raised in Saginaw, Chad returned home after an accomplished career that took him from avant-garde theater in Brooklyn to artistic work in Los Angeles, Chicago, and even stages across Europe.

A musician, actor, director, choreographer, designer, entrepreneur—and yes, even a snow-sculpting champion—Chad has spent his career saying "yes" to creativity in all its forms. From founding the award-winning Hook & Eye Theater Company to leading innovative arts organizations, he's built a reputation for bringing people together through meaningful experiences and bold artistic vision.

Since arriving in Traverse City in 2023, Chad has embraced both the beauty of Northern Michigan and the remarkable opportunity to steward the historic City Opera House. Under his leadership, the Opera House continues to evolve with an exciting mix of music, comedy, theater, film, and community programming that welcomes everyone through its doors.

On this episode of The mostly Traverse City Podcast, Chad shares his remarkable journey, why the arts are essential to healthy communities, and how one historic Victorian theater continues to inspire creativity, connection, and belonging in the heart of Traverse City.

Connect with the City Opera House:

• Website: City Opera House
• Become a Member: City Opera House Membership
• Facebook: City Opera House Facebook
• Instagram: @cityoperahouse

Special Offer: Become a City Opera House member to be the first to hear about year-round programming, enjoy ticket perks, and receive a limited-edition City Opera House tote bag while supplies last.

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Whether you're hearing this conversation for the first time or coming back for another listen, we think you'll walk away inspired by Liz's authenticity, determination, and unwavering commitment to her community and her country.

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 pivotal decision to enlist in the U.S. Army Reserve while pursuing her initial teaching degree. This dedication led to two deployments to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, a testament to her profound patriotism and resilience. Upon her return, her ambition drove her to shift her academic focus to health and fitness, launching a successful career that ultimately brought her to Traverse City.

Today, Liz channels her formidable energy into Intrepid Cycling Company, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and a relentless pursuit of her vision. Her involvement with Charlie Golf One further underscores her dedication to making a positive impact. Having found her home in Traverse City, she continues to inspire with her unwavering work ethic, her love for her community, and a spirit deeply infused with the values of service and determination. Her story is a powerful narrative of ambition, deep-seated patriotism, and the relentless drive to achieve and contribute. 

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Whether you're discovering this conversation for the first time or revisiting it with us, we hope you'll find something new to appreciate. In this Best Of episode, we're bringing back our conversation with Kevin Rhodes, the longtime Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Traverse City Philharmonic, whose passion for music, leadership, and community continues to inspire audiences throughout Northern Michigan and beyond.

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 with prestigious orchestras and opera companies across Europe and the United States. His commitment to musical excellence and community engagement has made him a beloved figure in Traverse City's cultural landscape.

tcphil.org

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Rachel Zemanek is the Owner, Founder, and self-proclaimed Keeper of Knowledge at The Folded Leaf, a charming Traverse City bookshop where great stories, great coffee, and great conversations come together. A Leelanau County native, Rachel has always had a deep love for Northern Michigan and the communities that make it special.

Before opening The Folded Leaf, Rachel spent a decade serving others in Fire & EMS, helping people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. While her setting has changed, her mission has not. Today, she channels that same spirit of care into creating a welcoming space where people can slow down, connect, learn, and belong.

Passionate about literacy, community, and helping young people thrive, Rachel has built The Folded Leaf to be much more than a bookstore. From book clubs and community gatherings to initiatives like the Good Dad Deeds Library and Letters to My Younger Self, she's creating a space where everyone is welcome and no one feels pressure to perform or purchase.

On this episode of The Mostly Traverse City Podcast, Rachel shares her journey from first responder to entrepreneur, the power of books to change lives, and why creating spaces for connection may be more important than ever.

Connect with Rachel & The Folded Leaf:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @thefoldedleaf.nomi
• Facebook: facebook.com/thefoldedleaf.nomi

Special Mention: Stop by for Footnote Fridays, where customers can participate in a pay-it-forward drip coffee program that helps spread a little kindness, one cup at a time.

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Mindy Jarmin is the owner, steward, and dreamer behind the beloved Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre, one of Northern Michigan's most iconic summer destinations. While many see a movie screen and a concession stand, Mindy sees something much bigger—a place where memories are made, traditions are passed down, and families can disconnect from their devices long enough to reconnect with one another.

A passionate entrepreneur and community builder, Mindy has dedicated herself to preserving a piece of Americana that has largely disappeared from the landscape. Under her leadership, the Cherry Bowl has remained a cherished gathering place where grandparents, parents, and children can share the simple joy of a movie under the stars.

On this episode of The Mostly Traverse City Podcast, Mindy shares the challenges and rewards of operating a seasonal business, the stories behind one of the region's most treasured landmarks, and why preserving experiences that bring people together matters now more than ever. It's a conversation about nostalgia, entrepreneurship, community, and the magic that happens when the lights go down and the screen lights up.

Connect with the Cherry Bowl:

• Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre
• Facebook: Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre
• Location: Honor

Whether you're there for the movies, the popcorn, or the memories, the Cherry Bowl remains one of Northern Michigan's most special summer traditions.

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