Behind the Business: Where Business Owners in Southwest Michigan Tell Their Story

About Behind the Business: Where Business Owners in Southwest Michigan Tell Their Story

A podcast where I sit down with local small business owners to discuss how their businesses got started, good times, bad times, and everything in between.

Publisher

Samantha Haas

Category

business · business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

6 May 2025

Latest episode

29 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   29 Sept 2026

   Tyler Strohschein: The Business Behind The Content Cove

   What happens when a passion for music, years of sales and marketing experience, and a desire to build something of your own come together? In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Tyler Strohschein, co-owner of The Content Cove, to talk about his journey from DJ and electronic music producer to entrepreneur and creative studio owner. Tyler shares how his background in music, marketing, and sales eventually came together to inspire The Content Cove—a creative studio designed to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, creators, and podcasters produce professional content without having to invest in all the equipment, technology, and setup themselves. We talk about taking the leap into entrepreneurship, starting a business around the same time Tyler and his wife were starting a family, and why Holland, Michigan, felt like the right place to build The Content Cove. We also dive into some of the biggest challenges small business owners face with social media and marketing, including finding time to stay consistent, knowing what to post, choosing the right platforms, and understanding whether they're actually getting their money's worth from their marketing. Tyler explains how The Content Cove approaches consulting by helping business owners understand their marketing and, when possible, teaching them how to do it themselves. But perhaps most importantly, Tyler shares his vision for the future of The Content Cove—from expanding the current studio and adding additional production spaces to eventually growing into a larger media production company. It's a conversation about entrepreneurship, creativity, family, marketing, community, and what happens when you turn what you're passionate about into something that helps other people.

2. 

   24 Aug 2026

   Alex Overhiser: Building the Next Chapter of a 160-year legacy

   In the newest episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Alex Overhiser, sixth-generation co-owner of Overhiser Orchards, to talk about what it takes to keep a family farm—and a family legacy—growing. From the farm's beginnings in 1863 to its evolution into a destination featuring U-pick fruit, a farm market, made-from-scratch bakery, animals, children's activities, and seasonal events, Alex gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the business and the people who make it happen. We talk about the challenges of modern farming, unpredictable weather, rising costs, working with family, the importance of social media and modern marketing in running a business, and why supporting local agriculture matters. But perhaps most importantly, Alex shares what motivates him to keep going: leaving the farm better than he found it and creating an opportunity for the next generation to carry on the family tradition. W: https://www.overhiserorchards.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/overhiserorchards IG: @overhiserorchards E: overhiserorchards@gmail.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl7Hl0s1vjdWqdflbIt-agg TikTok: @overhiser.orchards

3. 

   28 Jul 2026

   Monica Munson: The Heart Behind Restorative Healing Haven LLC

   In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Monica Munson, owner of Restorative Healing Haven LLC, to discuss the deeply personal journey that inspired her to build a business centered on healing, compassion, and whole-person wellness. Drawing on more than a decade of experience in mind-body wellness coaching and healing work, and from her own experiences with chronic illness, invisible disabilities, and emotional trauma, Monica shares how she transformed life's challenges into a mission to help others reconnect with their minds and bodies. Throughout the episode, we explore complementary healing practices such as Reiki, sound healing, and mind-body trauma support, while emphasizing the importance of these practices working alongside traditional healthcare. Monica also opens up about advocating for yourself through difficult diagnoses, preventing burnout, balancing entrepreneurship with chronic health conditions, and creating a welcoming space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. This heartfelt conversation offers an honest look at resilience, purpose, and the power of helping others heal—one person at a time. Connect with Restorative Healing Haven at the social media handles and website below: W: https://www.restorativehealinghaven.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/restorativehealinghaven IG: @restorativehealinghaven Email:Monica@restorativehealinghaven.com

4. 

   30 Jun 2026

   Behind B&B Grocery Outlet: A conversation with Beth and Ben Wagner

   In this month's episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Beth and Ben Wagner, Owners of B&B Grocery Outlet in Watervliet, to discuss how a passion for saving money, serving others and spending time together as a family grew into one of Southwest Michigan's most unique grocery destinations. Beth and Ben share their journey from creating what was once a 1,000-square-foot storefront to a 14,000 square-foot establishment offering pantry staples, fresh produce, fudge, deli meats, fresh baked goods and more at unbeatable prices, while offering an inside look at what it takes to successfully run a discount grocery store. They also discuss their most recent expansion and the importance of faith, family, supporting local communities, raising children in a family business and why creating meaningful relationships with customers are the foundation to their success.

5. 

   22 May 2026

   Behind Michigan Local Market: A conversation with Lindy DeVries

   In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Lindy de Vries — artist, entrepreneur, lifelong South Haven local, and owner of Michigan Local Market. Lindy shares the story behind her journey from childhood creativity and old-school graphic design to running both her family’s screen-printing business, Little Oscar’s, and her own Michigan-inspired retail shop in downtown South Haven. Our conversation dives into the evolution of graphic design before modern technology, building a business through the South Haven Farmers Market, creating iconic local apparel designs, and what it means to support small businesses and local artists in Southwest Michigan. Lindy also opens up about entrepreneurship, self-doubt, work-life balance, seasonal business challenges, and her recent breast cancer diagnosis — sharing a deeply honest perspective on resilience, health, community, and finding purpose through creativity. From stories about Michigan history and local tourism to heartfelt reflections on family, community, and personal growth, this episode is a reminder of the people and passion behind the businesses that make small towns feel like home. Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur, a small business owner, or someone who loves supporting local, this conversation is full of inspiration, honesty, and heart.

6. 

   27 Apr 2026

   Behind Decadent Dogs: A conversation with Roxanne Leder

   In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Roxanne Leder, owner of Decadent Dogs in downtown South Haven, to talk about her incredible journey from a 30+ year career in healthcare to becoming the heart behind one of the community’s most beloved small businesses. Roxanne shares how her passion for animals and people inspired her to create a boutique centered on quality pet products, affordability, and the celebration of the special bond between pets and their people. We discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, from long hours and seasonal challenges to providing mentorship and guidance to employees, delegating tasks, and learning to wear many hats as a business owner. Roxanne also opens up about the importance of kindness in customer service, supporting local businesses, and staying deeply involved in the South Haven community through events, charities, and local partnerships. From gourmet dog treats and breed-specific gifts to heartfelt advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, this episode is full of wisdom, warmth, and inspiration. Whether you’re a pet lover, small business owner, or someone chasing a dream, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Want to connect further with our guest and sponsor? Check out the links below 👇 Decadent Dogs: website: https://decadentdogs.com/ Email: decadentdogs@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Decadent.Dogs IG: @decadentdogs South Haven Regional Business Hub: website: https://southhavenregionalbusinesshub.org/ Email: elizabeth@southhavenregionalbusinesshub.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoHaBusinessHub IG: south_haven_hub

7. 

   29 Mar 2026

   Behind Gulotta Imagery: A Coversation with Nichole Valkner

   In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Nicole Valkner, the heart behind Gulotta Imagery, to talk about the journey from picking up a camera as a hobby to building a photography business that captures some of life’s most meaningful moments along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Nicole’s story isn’t just about photography—it’s about taking a leap into the unknown, trusting your instincts, and building something meaningful while balancing the realities of motherhood, family, and running her own business. From long summer days filled with back-to-back sessions to late nights spent editing, she shares the behind-the-scenes moments people don’t always see. Raised between Southern California and Michigan and inspired by a family of artists, Nicole developed a style rooted in authenticity—capturing genuine laughter, connection, and the fleeting seasons of life we often wish we could hold on to just a little longer. This episode dives into the beauty and challenges of running a mostly seasonal business, the power of community support, and why—despite the rise of smartphones—professional photography still matters. Because in the end, these aren’t just photos, they’re memories you get to keep for a lifetime.

8. 

   23 Feb 2026

   Behind Willow Behavior Specialists: A Conversation with Lacy Wolter

   In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Lacy Wolter, owner of Willow Behavior Specialists in Saint Joseph, Michigan. We discuss how Lacy saw a gap in care for children with Autism and other neurodivergent behavioral issues, as well as care for their families. From reimagining what therapy can look like to building meaningful community partnerships, our conversation dives into the heart of their mission to increase quality of life, reduce ambiguity and stress for families, and create an inclusive, community-driven support system. With her practice now serving 40 families after only one year in business, we also explore the realities of rapid growth for small business owners and Lacy’s vision for a more collaborative, inclusive future. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn purpose into impact — and build a true village around families who need it most.

9. 

   27 Jan 2026

   Behind Mitchell's Patch of Blue: A Conversation with Kyle Mitchell

   In this episode, Kyle shares his journey from the fast-paced restaurant industry to college classrooms and back to his roots as a third-generation blueberry farmer at Mitchell’s Patch of Blue. He reflects on growing up on the farm alongside his immediate and extended family, the legacy of his great-grandfather—who founded the farm amid the challenges of being an African American entrepreneur at the dawn of the civil rights movement. Kyle discusses why he returned home after nearly 20 years away, the current transition of purchasing the farm from his father and uncle to himself and his wife, and how the farm continues to honor tradition by using original equipment while embracing innovation. Our conversation explores the varieties of blueberries grown, organic and emerging farming practices—including future plans inspired by Korean agriculture—and how the farm supplies restaurants, hospitals, and breweries while strengthening local food systems. We also discuss how he markets to both agricultural and restaurant industries, organizing educational seminars, mentoring through programs like ProStart and the Great Lakes Conference on Food Protection, and viewing the farm not simply as a business, but as a way to serve and uplift the surrounding community. From managing stress with gummy bears to reflecting on winning a 40 Under 40 award, Kyle shares candid insights, advice he passes on to students, and his vision for where Mitchell’s Patch of Blue will be in the next decade—all while balancing respect for the past with a commitment to growth and evolution. Be sure to check them out at https://www.mitchellspatchofblue.com/ and on Facebook and Instagram FB: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchellspatchofblue IG: @mitchells.patch.of.blue

10. 

    21 Dec 2025

    Behind Big Blue Rentals: A conversation with Ryan and Mandy Servatius

    In the season one finale of Behind the Business, I sit down with Ryan and Mandy Servatius, from Big Blue Rentals. Our conversation explores how Big Blue Rentals began, how it has grown, what sets it apart from other property management companies in the area, and how short-term rental ordinances and the housing market affect their business. We also discuss the stressors that come with their dedication to being available to tennants 24/7, their future goals for Big Blue Rentals, and the couple's deep commitment to community involvement in Southwest Michigan.

11. 

    25 Nov 2025

    Behind Unique Catering Solutions: A conversation with Josh Vochaska

    In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Josh Vochaska, Owner of Unique Catering Solutions. Join me as we discuss Josh's 20-year career in the restaurant industry, facing burnout, only to return to his passion a few years later, starting his own detailing side hustle, and how he wants to see Unique Catering Solutions grow in the future.

12. 

    5 Oct 2025

    Behind Paint Haven: A conversation with Sarah Vochaska

    In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Sarah Vochaska, Co-Owner of Paint Haven, to discuss her career shift from veterinary management and her rapid move from Los Angeles to South Haven last year, to be with her husband, Josh, who is also her business partner. We also discuss the stressors that went into renovating their current space at 510 Williams Street in South Haven, how Sarah would like to see the business grow, and how supporting small businesses is the core of the American Dream.

13. 

    26 Aug 2025

    Behind Recharge South Haven: A conversation with Seth Greenwald

    During this episode, I interview Seth Greenwald, owner of Recharge South Haven. We discuss how opening South Haven's newest coffee shop represents the first step of Greenwald's vision to develop a large, high-speed charging lot for electric vehicles that also provides healthy food, drinks, and amenities to travelers. We also cover the chaos of operating a business in South Haven during peak summer, Recharge's recent partnership with Uncommon Coffee Roasters, and how Greenwald balances living in Chicago while running a business on the other side of Lake Michigan.

14. 

    2 Jul 2025

    Behind Driftwood's Custom Designs: A conversation with Daniel "Driftwood" Goss

    Daniel "Driftwood" Goss of Driftwood Custom Designs shares with the host how community involvement and family contribute to his unique jewelry and furniture business in this interview.

15. 

    26 May 2025

    Behind SoHa Sauna Rentals: A conversation with Arthur Piszczor

    Arthur Piszczor, owner of SoHa Sauna Rentals, discusses the company's origins, services, and future plans in the wellness community, highlighting the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship in this interview.

16. 

    6 May 2025

    Introducing, Behind The Business: The Podcast!

    Host introduces the Behind the Business podcast and previews an upcoming interview with Arthur Piszczor, owner of SoHa Sauna Rentals, setting the stage for stories from Southwest Michigan business owners.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 6 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

12

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0