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

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.

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: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Decadent.Dogs IG: @decadentdogs South Haven Regional Business Hub: website: https://southhavenregionalbusinesshub.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoHaBusinessHub IG: south_haven_hub

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode, I sit down with Daniel Goss. Also known as Driftwood, he is the owner of Driftwood Custom Designs. This business offers one-of-a-kind, handmade wire-wrapped jewelry crafted from gemstones and fossils sourced from across the country, as well as pieces made from sentimental items. Driftwood also makes furniture from reused and recycled wood. During our conversation, we discuss the importance of building a community around small businesses, his teenage son's involvement in the business, what the future holds for his company, and finding a balance between personal and professional life. Check out his social's below! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556233505363 Instagram: @daniel.goss.7773

For the first official Behind the Business podcast episode, I sit down with the owner of SoHa Sauna Rentals. We discuss the initial idea behind SoHa Sauna Rentals, its services, family involvement, the stressors of being a business owner in a business rapidly gaining traction in the wellness community, what the future holds for the company, and its new 12-person sauna! For booking information, go to https://www.sohasaunas.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559209839955 IG: @sohasaunarental E: [email protected] Quick note: There were issues with the audio in the editing process. I will be looking for a new place to record in future episodes. But for now, enjoy!

Listen in as I describe the purpose of Behind the Business and prepare for our special guest in episode one: Arthur Piszczor, the owner of SoHa Sauna Rentals!