November 3, 2025
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.
October 27, 2025
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.
October 20, 2025
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. A Compass Local Podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.
October 13, 2025
“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.