In this episode of the RAC Podcast, Laura McCoy sits down with Erin Hudson, Executive Director of Harbor Habitat for Humanity. Erin shares her personal journey back to Benton Harbor and why providing safe, affordable housing has become her mission.

Erin breaks down what Harbor Habitat does — building homes for low-to-moderate income individuals and families, operating the Harbor Habitat ReStore as a key fundraiser, and partnering with homeowners through financial education, sweat equity, and affordable mortgages (Habitat homes are not “given away”). She also discusses the growing housing challenges in Southwest Michigan, the ongoing need for volunteers, and the organization’s vision for the future — including “Project T,” a major development effort planned for 2026.

If you’re passionate about community, stability, and creating real change close to home, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Get involved with Harbor Habitat for Humanity: 📞 269-925-9635 🌐 harborhabitat.org 🏠 Office: 175 West Main Street, Benton Harbor 🛠 ReStore: Plaza Drive

In this episode of The RAC Podcast, Laura sits down with Alex’s Veggies owner — and local legend — Alex Gallert (aka Mullet Man!) from Stevensville, MI. Alex shares the story behind his family’s long-standing farm, the evolution of the veggie stand, and the passion that drives him to keep growing (literally and figuratively).

From humble beginnings to steadily expanding offerings, Alex opens up about the importance of “starting small and not immediately having to be big” and the value of “gradually growing all the time.” He reflects on the advice he’s been given over the years, what he hopes to pass on to the next generation, and the additional projects he juggles outside of the stand.

Alex also has a special connection to Renaissance Athletic Club — he’s the cousin of our very own Kids Club Director, Tara Gallert, making this conversation even more meaningful to our RAC community.

This episode highlights the deep connection between wellness, community, and local food — values that align perfectly with our mission at RAC. In Southwest Michigan, we’re fortunate to have incredible local farm stands like Alex’s that nourish our bodies, support sustainable practices, and strengthen the fabric of our community.

If you love hearing stories rooted in passion, purpose, and homegrown goodness, you won’t want to miss this one.

Alex's Veggies is located at 5780 Washington Ave Stevensville, MI 49127

In this episode of The RAC Podcast, Laura sits down with Sean Todman, President and Owner of Renaissance Athletic Club, and Jerry “JP” Price, Director of Business Development (or as he likes to call himself — the Friendship Building Director). Together, they explore the story behind RAC — the inspiration, the vision, and what truly sets this fitness community apart.

Sean shares his personal journey of building a space where fitness, wellness, and connection come together under one roof. From the early ideas that sparked RAC’s creation to the ongoing mission of fostering growth through community, his passion for people and purpose shines through. JP adds valuable perspective on RAC’s deep ties to the community and how collaboration, relationships, and leadership continue to shape its future.

This episode is all about the “why” behind RAC — where every member, every class, and every story contributes to something bigger.

Join us for an insightful conversation on longevity: what it really means to live a long, vibrant life. Laura McCoy sits down with Karen Burgard, NBC-HWC, CSMC, DPP (Health & Wellness Coach, Certified Menopause Coaching Specialist, and Diabetes Prevention Lifestyle Coach) to explore the key pillars of longevity and how they can support lasting health and vitality.

Our guest this episode is Melissa Kantor, PA-C, who shares expert insights on a range of health and wellness topics - from hormone balance to skin health and everything in between. Her mission is to educate, empower, and inspire our community to take charge of their well-being from the inside out. With a medical career spanning over two decades, Melissa began her journey in emergency and family practice in 1998. In 2014, Melissa shifted her focus to aesthetic medicine, providing exceptional, personalized care that aims for natural-looking results. Melissa’s commitment to continued education and staying at the forefront of aesthetic innovation has made The Aesthetics Lounge and Spa a trusted destination for those seeking exceptional care and outstanding results.

Follow her journey on Instagram: @melissa_aestheticinjector

About The Aesthetics Lounge and Spa: Southwest Michigan's premier medical spa is located in the Edgewater Complex in St. Joseph, Michigan. We provide a diverse array of services, including dermal fillers, neurotoxins, Halo/BBL, laser hair removal, Ultherapy, chemical peels, Hydrofacials, microneedling, weight loss, IV Therapy, NAD+, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, PRP/PRF, and medical-grade skincare. Our skilled team of professionals is committed to delivering exceptional aesthetic treatments in a luxurious and soothing atmosphere. Reach out to us today to book your consultation and indulge in the finest wellness services this area offers.

Our guest is Gretchen Krivak, Director of the Didactic Program in Dietetics and Interim Director of the Fitness and Exercise Science Program, discussing family and nutrition.

From Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. BA, Bethel College - Exercise Science MS, Andrews University - Nutrition & Wellness Currently Working On: EdD, United States Sports Academy - Sports Management with Emphasis in Sports Health and Fitness RD (Registered Dietitian) CGFI (Certified Group Fitness Instructor) EIM - Level 1

Gretchen Krivak, MS, RD, CGFI, EIM-1, is an Assistant Professor in the School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She has been a part of the Andrews faculty since 2010, providing the school with her expertise in both nutrition and fitness. Gretchen graduated from Bethel College in Mishawaka, Indiana, with her BA in Exercise Science. She completed her Master of Science at Andrews University in Nutrition and Wellness, and she is currently working on her Doctorate of Education in Sports Management with an emphasis in Sports Health & Fitness through the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, Alabama. Gretchen is a Registered Dietitian and is part of the Dietetic Practice Group SCAN (Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition). She is certified as a Group Fitness Instructor and Exercise is Medicine Specialist Level 1. She currently serves the school as the Director for the Nutrition Science and Dietetics Program and Interim Director for Fitness and Exercise Science.

Gretchen serves the Andrews University campus as a Wellness Ambassador and on the Wellness Council. She currently leads the Community Outreach Task Force for the Wellness Council and the Health and Fitness Expo Committee within the College of Health and Human Services. Gretchen has successfully planned the Community Health & Fitness Expo event since 2012. She also serves on the College of Health & Human Services Interprofessional Education Committee and the University Assessment Committee. Most recently, she became a site reviewer for ACEND (Accreditation Council of Education in Nutrition and Dietetics), where she helps conduct site reviews for the field of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Dr. Geoff Heddle has over 25 years of unparalleled experience in optometry. He is passionately dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of patients across all age groups. A proud Canadian, he graduated from the prestigious Indiana University School of Optometry, where he honed his skills and commitment to patient care.

Dr. Heddle is driven by a mission to understand and address each patient's unique needs thoroughly. He believes in educating individuals about their visual processes and how they affect their daily lives. His extensive background in vision therapy and developmental optometry is truly impressive, encompassing work with elite athletes and teams. He has made significant contributions as a sports vision consultant for the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs and has been a valuable medical team member for the NBA's New York Knicks. Furthermore, he has provided expert consultation for draft prospects with the NFL's Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs. With Dr. Heddle, patients can be assured they receive top-tier care backed by a wealth of experience and expertise.

Coach Clare Ramirez is a professional coach licensed by USA Boxing and the founder of Boxing House International. A Chicago Golden Gloves Champion with six appearances, she has over 25 years of boxing experience, including the last six years training with the Cuban National Team in Havana. In 2021, she opened Boxing House International, which is now home to four undefeated fighters. Beyond the ring, Clare is a passionate healer and educator. For over a decade, she has led world-class wellness retreats around the globe, drawing on her extensive knowledge of yoga, Ayurveda, and spiritual coaching to help individuals reconnect with their strength and purpose. Currently, she is studying to become a Doctor of Chinese Medicine and a Primary Care Physician. Clare's mission is to create healthy, empowered communities and guide people toward becoming the best version of themselves—mind, body, and spirit. Exciting Breaking News: Clare will begin teaching a beginner boxing program at the club at the end of April!