The Christal Frost Podcast: Recent Episodes
Christal Frost: Conversationalist
Daily podcast from host Christal Frost, featuring news, interviews and features from the people of Northern Michigan and beyond.
President of the Grand Traverse Area Veterans Coalition, John Lefler joins us to talk about the many ways to honor those who have served this Thursday for Veterans Day.
An admiration for—and the subsequent adoption of—the practice of hand-writing letters and thank you notes led Bill Marsh, Jr., of the blog Making You Matter, to the larger topic of “Gratitude,” and what a huge impact it can have in our lives.
“Why didn’t she leave?” It’s a question many people ask when they hear about a domestic abuse situation, and, with the national attention the Gabby Petito case is getting, one that’s being asked again. Juliette Schultz, Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Center in Traverse City, joins us to discuss this and October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Who would you like to be haunted by? If we learn from our mistakes, why are we so afraid to make mistakes? Part of the process of being our best selves is developing something called “Relational Capital,” also known as our capacity to make genuine connections with other people through curiosity, says Bill Marsh, Jr., of the blog Making You Matter. Here, we dive into a series of seemingly random questions to get our curiosity flowing!
A look back at the last week in music, featuring the HITS Act looking to give tax relief to recording musicians, Eminem’s new restaurant and why songs are getting shorter.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, including new scrutiny for the City Manager, East Front Street’s upcoming redesign, the parting ways of Norte and their founder, and the fate of the oft-seen bear roaming the area.
Wings of Mercy volunteer pilot Steve Melvin joins us to talk about September 25’s 5k on Cherry Capital Airport’s runway. Proceeds benefits Wings of Mercy, which provides transportation to distant medical facilities for patients who cannot afford to fly.
Ahead of hosting his “Night at the Beach” stand-up show at Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge on Friday, September 24, actor Adam Beach joins us to preview the evening and the comedians he’ll be presenting.
Broadcaster Rick Coates returns to continue last week’s discussion on advocating for mental health awareness, and is joined by Judy Barrett, president of the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
For more information, visit at nami.org
Green Lake Township trustees voted this spring to grant themselves bonuses for additional work done due to pandemic-related needs, with the funds coming from American Rescue Plan dollars. Township Supervisor Marv Radke joins us to speak about the controversy.
A look back at a few stories from the past week in music, including the uncertain fate of Afghanistan’s musicians and a way to invest in your favorite artists in the cryptospace.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, including Norte’s sudden change in leadership, Interlochen taking back a school building from TCAPS, numerous new apartment complexes planned, the current state of the job market in the area and what’s happening with school protocols.
We’re joined by our favorite genius, author and TED speaker Jeffery Ford, to discuss how highlighting and celebrating our unique talents leads us to creating better lives.
The stigma that goes along with mental illness often gets in the way of people reaching out for help and care. Broadcaster Rick Coates joins us to talk about his own journey with mental health, losing people close to him, and how he’s turning his focus advocating for programs and awareness that can help those who might need it.
For more information, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness at nami.org
Highlights from the last week in the world of music, including lawsuits coming against the SBA for how it distributed funds for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grants, Britney Spears’ father filing to end her conservatorship and Metallica reading aloud the worst reviews of “The Black Album.”
A look back at some of the week’s biggest local headlines, featuring the firing of Traverse City’s treasurer and new apartments and condos coming to downtown.
With the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks coming up this Saturday, we’re joined by Meredith Hawes, from the National Fire Protection Association, and Captain Michael Kozo, who provides Fire Safety Education for the FDNY, for a look at how the fire department has changed since 2001. Plus: avoiding the danger of static electricity fires.
The Ironman 70.3 is back — and they need your help! Volunteer Director Janice Davidson joins us to talk about their new location, on the shores of Lake Michigan in Frankfort, and the need for a thousand community members to lend a hand to help make the event happy — and raise money for the charity of their choice!
A look back at some of the top local stories of the week, featuring plans to use funds create a complete trail loop with a bridge over Sabin Pond and start an “incubator farm” and what COVID will mean for autumn events.
Following an incident with a reporter during a meeting for her group, Citizens Liberating Michigan’s Heather Cerone joins us to discuss the situation.
There’s no breakthrough quick-fix to overcome a lack of proper self-care, says Bill Marsh, Jr., of the blog Making You Matter. But you might be surprised to learn the difference minerals can make.
A look back at the week in music news, featuring more funding for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, Kanye’s (unintentionally?) released album and remembering Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts with the best story about Charlie Watts.
Ahead of her performance at today’s final “Concerts on the Lawn” performance at the Grand Traverse Pavilions, Miriam Pico joins us to discuss her new album and “sing-along coloring book,” and navigating the last 18 months as a working musician.
President of the Board of Director of the Benzie Aquatic Center, Diane Tracy joins us to talk about how her organization is looking into the construction of an aquatic and fitness center in Benzie County, looking to bring year-round healthful exercise opportunities for all age groups to the area -- and there’s a way that YOU can help make this happen!
A look back at the week in music with Jordan Anderson from Mr. Music DJs, featuring the future of Afghanistan’s National Institute of Music, “vocal deepfakes” allowing for a future where any singer can be made to “record” any song, and the anticlimactic end to New York’s big homecoming concert.
Two-time Genius of the Year, Author and TED speaker Jeffery Ford joins us to discuss the what makes others take notice of you…and, often, it begins with showing an interest in them.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, including the HomeStretch Housing Project proposed for downtown TC, addressing the need to upgrade a vulnerable section of retaining wall along the Boardman River, Hagerty Insurance going public and the Grand Traverse County Commission’s vaccine messaging resolution.
With students getting ready to head back to college, it’s a good time to take a look at how you can avoid fire risks—both on and off campus—with the National Fire Protection Association’s Meredith Hawes.
Grand Traverse County Commission Chair Rob Hentschel join us to discuss a proposed resolution regarding the language used promoting COVID-19 vaccines, as well the potential mandating of vaccines for county employees.
A look back at the week in music with Jordan Anderson from Mr. Music DJs, featuring Britney Spears’ dad planning to vacate his role in her conservatorship…eventually, Tony Bennett’s retirement from performing and Pokémon Go for your ears.
A retired senior U.S. Diplomatic Advisor, Jack Segal joins us to talk about the complexity of the situation in Afghanistan.
A look back in the week of music with Jordan Anderson with Mr. Music DJ’s, featuring how some recipients of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant are waiting on their funding because the government thinks they’re dead, literally turning the works of Bach upside down, and the most wrong way to deal with being asked to turn down your music.
Last year’s inaugural Michigan Brewers Guild Spring Beer Festival, to be held at Traverse City Pit Spitters’ Turtle Creek Stadium, was cancelled due to the pandemic. While hopes were high for a 2021 kickoff, that, unfortunately, will not be happening. Scott Graham, Executive Director of the MBG, joins us to talk about the Guild, the decision to cancel, and what’s next.
How do schools serve not just educational needs of kids, but their social/emotional needs? Grand Traverse Academy Superintendent Jim Coneset joins us to talk about how their approach to learning has become especially relevant to helping students during the pandemic.
MAWBY, home of Leelanau County’s famous sparkling wine, has always been focused on giving back. Marketing Manager Claire LePine joins us to talk about their “Green Giving” program, where $1 from every bottle and glass of green sold goes to local groups that make our area a better place to live, work and play.
People get into arguments for a variety of reasons, says Jeffery Ford, the VedIQ Guild’s 2019 Distinguished Visionary of the Year award winner. However, not too many of them understand how it is that they, too, could win every single argument they get invited to attend.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, featuring a revamped vaccine registration system, a new apartment complex approved for Hall Street, clean up at the airport and a new restaurant heads to West Front Street.
A look back at the last week in music, featuring last night’s Grammy awards and the death of the godfather of the cassette tape.
From the Traverse City Human Rights Commission, Suzy Connor joins us to talk about the Sara Hardy Humanitarian Award, honoring someone who represents the ideals of diversity, equity and inclusion in Traverse City, as well as talk about how you can nominate someone you think is deserving.
In the safety community, the “change your clocks/change your batteries” for smoke alarms and other devices was, for a long time, the gold standard, but with so many different changes in smoke alarms and batteries, there’s a lot more to do. With Daylight Saving Time just over the horizon, National Fire Protection Association’s Meredith Hawes joins us to talk about staying safe this spring.
A look at some of the biggest local stories of the week, including restaurant and retail changes, and Cedar Polka Fest’s new, permanent date.
Last summer, alongside theatres around the world, Northern Michigan’s own Parallel 45’s stage went dark. This year, thanks to the community’s generous support and dedication to the arts, they’re planning a return for their summer festival. Executive Director Erin Whiting, along with Director of Education Stacia Sexton, speak about how they navigated 2020 and what’s in store for 2021.
A deep dive into the world of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), a revolutionary new idea built on the Blockchain, and how its looking at changing the music industry from every angle.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, featuring the city tackling liquor license confusion and “drinking culture,” and the conversion of Mitchell Creek Golf Course into a nature preserve.
Since the age of 4, Dylan Dodds was been interested in building. Now a freshman in high school, Dylan, along with his mom, Emily, run Trees A Crowd, a business making items like coasters, tables and charcuterie boards using dead and dying trees. Having just landed his first major project for Elderberry Farm Estate, Dylan is enthusiastic about building and ready for hire. We spoke with the both of them about balancing a business and school, along with their other initiative, TC Teens, about helping area youth create purposeful and positive connections.
A regional nonprofit celebrating 10 years of advocating for STEM-related learning for all students, Newton’s Road is partnering with 20Fathoms for the March 2021 Cyber Learn-A-Thon, a free 15 hour self-paced course that gives an introduction to cyber security, exploring trends, threats and staying safe in cyberspace. Executive Director Barb Termaat joins us with the details.
There is currently, and there will continue to be, lots of road construction happening in our area. Traverse City Ticker’s Beth Milligan joins us to break it down.
A look back at recent headlines in the world of music, featuring vinyl’s very-healthy 2020, the new app that’s like late night talk radio mixed with a jam session, and Lady Gaga’s dog-napped pooches.
“How can we meet people where they’re at?” In an era defined for organizations by“the pivot,” the National Cherry Festival has been no exception. Executive Director Kat Paye joins us to discuss this year’s upcoming Leapin’ Leprechaun 5K, as well as adapting to the pandemic and finding ways to continue events under a new model, and looking to the future.
This month, Michigan launched a program providing a tuition-free pathway for state residents 25 years or older to receive an Associate’s Degree or Pell-eligible skill certificate from their in-district community college: Michigan Reconnect. Susan Corbin, the Acting Director of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, joins us with the details.
Officially becoming NMC’s eleventh president on January 1, 2020, Dr. Nick Nissley has had to face challenges no one could have foreseen. He joins us to speak about continuing education programs Michigan Reconnect and Futures for Frontliners, working to serve the community, and the “60 by 30” goal.
When asked if we want to be happy, all of us would probably say, “…well, yes, of course!” What the problem with what we think of as “happiness,” says Bill Marsh, Jr., of the blog Making You Matter, is multifaceted.
Stories from the world of music, including Daft Punk’s bizarre-but-on-brand break-up announcement, Kanye West’s impending divorce and how Metallica’s chickens came home to roost.
Society has its idea of what is normal and so does almost everyone else around us. However, Jeffery Ford, the VedIQ Guild’s 2019 Distinguished Visionary of the Year award winner, joins us to ask….is “normal” really the best way for you to be living?
A renowned Northern Michigan culinary fixture, chef Eric Nittolo joins us to talk about his new restaurant opening in Lake Leelanau, why their motto is “local supporting local because we’re local,” why less is more when it comes to pizza and what he’ll do if you ask for pineapple.
A look back at the some of the biggest local stories of the week, discussing the quiet extension of the restaurant restrictions for the state and County Commission’s partisan resolution debates.
Lead columnist for 9&10 News’ online magazine, Brighid Driscoll joins to talk about coming to Northern Michigan, the feel-good focus of GT Pulse, and why tending bar is a great way to learn an area.
Making a good cocktail at home can be difficult, but Iris Cocktail Co. is looking to change that with their series of delicious cordials -- just add alcohol, stir and enjoy! Co-owner Adrian Juarez joins us to talk leaving LA for TC, starting the company with partner Riley Billingsley, and what's ahead.
A look back at the week in music, including Bruce Springsteen’s suspicious DWI, New York state welcoming back (small) live events and Gene Simmons wanting kids to get off his rock ’n roll lawn.
A look back at the some of the biggest local stories of the week, including the upcoming decision on the FishPass injunction, restaurant and retail news, and one of the deadliest stretch of highway in the state.
Director of Cherry Capital Airport Kevin Klein is back to reveal another new, daily nonstop flight coming this summer: Charlotte.
Breaking down the musical performances at last night’s Super Bowl LV with Jordan Anderson from Mr. Music DJ & Event Services.
Director of Cherry Capital Airport, Kevin Klein joins us to talk about new non-stop flights coming this summer, including Philadelphia, Dallas, Charlotte, Washington, D.C. & New York.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, including the search for housing solutions, GT County Commission deadlocked on repercussions over a recent incident, and Acme Township potentially getting its own water.
Executive Director Jennifer Szunko and Development Director Sarah Hunt join us to preview the presenters at tonight’s virtual meetup from TC NewTech!
A look back at stories from the past week in the world of music, featuring the acquisition of the legendary Sun Records catalog by a giant holding company, Spotify recommending songs based on how you talk, Jimmy Fallon getting into the recording booth, and music standing the test of time.
TC Central Hockey Coach Chris Givens, along with parent & coach Scott Dawson, join us to discuss their concerns about the continued “pause” for contact sports, inconsistencies with the current rules, and the importance of sports as an outlet for our kids during this unusual time.
After some technical issues, including Zoom bombing and an inability to control inappropriate comments, during Thursday’s County Commission special meeting, Grand Traverse County Administrator Nate Alger joins us to discuss what happened and the steps being taken to prevent this happening again in the future.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, including yesterday’s controversial special meeting for the Grand Traverse County Commission and an update on COVID vaccine distribution for Northern Michigan.
Director of Community Health at Northwest Michigan Health Services, Tammy Sorensen joins us to talk about getting federal approval to provide the COVID vaccine to the community, which groups get vaccinated in what order, what to know about the other variants, and more.
Recent research is showing that the scattered feeling of distraction in our lives is no only a social and economic issue, but a public health issue, as well. Bill Marsh, Jr., of the blog Making You Matter, joins us to explore some of the causes of distraction, and offer solutions to help regain your focus and mental clarity.
A look back at stories from the past week in music, featuring the first “space bubble” concert, high tech scalpers being forced to pay up, and breakfast courtesy of Darius Rucker.
During the public comment period of this week’s virtual Grand Traverse County Commission meeting, Vice Chairman Ron Clous’ display of a firearm has gone viral. Commission Chair Rob Hentschel joins us to discuss.
Each year, MAWBY Sparkling helps to raise funds for beloved local nonprofits. MAWBY Marketing Manager Claire LePine joins us for at look back at the organizations they worked to help in 2020.
A look back at some of the biggest local headlines of the week, including confirmation of indoor dining returning February 1st, upcoming city projects, and the Grand Traverse County Commission meeting that made headlines for two reasons.
Founders of Kultura Group, Matt Hodges and Abby Sierputowski are hosting a 10-month long #AllThemSmiles campaign, promoting the continued positive CULTURE happening all over Northern Michigan by partnering with the local non-profit Father Fred Foundations. Things kick off Thursday, January 21st at Nolan’s Tobacco and Cigar Bar in Traverse City.
A look back at the past week in the world of music, including the death of Phil Spector, getting ready for the Save Our Stages Act funds, and why sea shanties are all the craze.
How would you respond to the question, “Who are you?” Would you talk about your job or your family? Or would you say something else? Jeffery Ford, the VedIQ Guild’s 2019 Distinguished Visionary of the Year award winner, joins us for a conversation on becoming “self-actualized,” and how we can use this to live happier lives.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, including changes to business closure requirements (and what lies ahead for restaurant owners in particular), two new neighborhoods planned for Old Mission and getting folks to slow down on Peninsula Drive.
Grand Traverse County Health Department Director Dr. Michael Collins joins us to discuss updates on COVID-19 measures in Northern Michigan, featuring those in 1A and preparing for phase 1B, the new strain of the virus, and the size of the needle.
Stories this week from the land of music include the Grammy awards postponement and Tracy Chapman’s unusual copyright infringement case against Nicki Minaj. Plus, the weirdest foods Jordan and Vic have ever eaten.
As the COVID-19 vaccine becomes more widely available in our area, the required cold storage techniques related to its distribution, transportation and storage pose many safety risks, including flammability. National Fire Protection Association’s Meredith Hawes, along with Traverse City Fire Chief Jim Tuller, join us with the details, as well as a discussion on our First Responders and the vaccine.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, including wastewater testing for COVID-19, vaccine distribution updates, Acme K-Mart’s new life, food trucks possibly coming to East Bay Township, and TCAPS’ return to face-to-face learning.
“If it were any more real, you’d think you’d need sunscreen!” That how owner Mike Sinnard talks about X-Golf, Traverse City’s indoor golf simulator. Mike joins us, along with golf pro Holden Price, to talk about the facility and their upcoming short game clinic this Saturday, and their youth clinic on January 23rd.
Sara Hardy Farmer’s Market has relaunched their online version, and will continue each Saturday through April. Downtown Traverse City DDA Experience Coordinator Nick Viox joins us to give all the details.
Executive Director Jennifer Szunko and Development Director Sarah Hunt join us to preview the presenters at tonight’s virtual meetup from TC NewTech! Featured this evening are Niccolo Antinucci of Motus, an AI-powered fitness startup; Ashley M. Williams of RIZZARR, a tech-enabled content marketplace; Janine Thomas of Ysanne, jewelry with hidden SOS technology; and Vritti Sethi of Bonfire Live, an artist-centric platform sparking virtual connections between local independent artists and fans to create the magic of a live show remotely.
A look back at the past week in the world of music, featuring the sale of the Neverland Ranch, Cyndi Lauper’s NYE performance, and the crowd-sourced Ratatouille musical.
It’s been…quite a year. A very tough one for so many, but one, says Bill Marsh, Jr., of the blog Making You Matter, from which you can still learn some important lessons.
A look back at the last week in the world of music, featuring predictions for 2021 and Weird Al’s digital reunion with an old crush and a piece of art.
After pivoting his shows into online experiences that still retain the fun of their in-person counterparts, magician Ben Whiting joins us to talk about the new holiday version of his popular “Magic on the Rocks,” happening tonight at 7:30 pm. Test “Houdini” to 66866 to get the link!
For the first time in more than a year, a new ad in the Pure Michigan travel campaign (“Still Pure”) hits the airwaves and digital spaces, encouraging safe winter travel at a critical moment for numerous industries in our state. We spoke with Dave Lorenz (Travel Michigan) about the return of Pure Michigan.
A look back at the least week in the world of music, featuring the passage of the Save Our Stages Act in the COVID-19 Relief Bill, illegally streaming music becoming a possible felony, and a more light-hearted look at one of the Beatles’ more publicly turbulent times.
People often needlessly suffer throughout their entire lives because they don’t know how to manage their memories properly, says Jeffery Ford, the VedIQ Guild’s 2019 Distinguished Visionary of the Year award winner. While we can’t control all the happenings of our lives, we can definitely control our perception of them and the power that we give these memories to control our present day actions and emotions.
Executive Director of the Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center, Ginger Kadlec joins us to talk about their “Take 10” campaign, focusing on the great deal of stress on families during the pandemic.
President of the Grand Traverse chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Judy Barrett, joins us to talk about their dedication to improving the quality of life for people with mental illness, and for their families. Plus, musician and psychiatrist Lawrence “Doc” Probes speaks about their fundraising efforts for the organization.
A look back at some of the biggest local stories of the week, featuring City Commissioners raising salaries for themselves and others, the COVID-19 comes to TC, and TCAPS Superintendent Dr. John VanWagoner looks to the immediate future of area schooling.
Looking for a unique gift this holiday season? A popular series of prints of our region have been turned into coloring posters, for both children and adults. Proceeds for “Color for Hope” benefit the Grand Traverse County Drug Free Coalition, working towards awareness and action in the prevention, treatment and recovery of substance abuse.
From the Kultura Group with Exit Realty, Matt Hodges and Abby Sierzputowski have partnered with Father Fred to take donations of non-perishable items, canned goods, blankets and cash.
A new agreement eliminates a 15% tariff for Michigan cherry growers exporting Taiwan. Ben LaCross, of LaCross Farms and Leelanau Fruit Company, joins us to discuss this development, as well how local growers compete with Turkish cherries, how food production leads to a stronger nation and the best gift to put under the tree.
A new agreement eliminates a 15% tariff for Michigan cherry growers exporting Taiwan. Ben LaCross, of LaCross Farms and Leelanau Fruit Company, joins us to discuss this development, as well how local growers compete with Turkish cherries, how food production leads to a stronger nation and the best gift to put under the tree.