Jeffrey McDonald

My name is Jeffrey McDonald. I am a veteran of the Unites States Coast Guard and co owner of fit20 Traverse City. I am originally from Ludington, MI but after getting injured in the military and medically retired, my girlfriend (at the time) and I moved to Traverse City to be closer to family. 3 years, a marriage and a 6 month old baby boy later, we are loving this area and plan to stay!

Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My wife Samantha and I have been married for a year and a half and we have a 6 month old boy named Mason.

Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am currently a co owner of fit20 Traverse City. We help those that are not currently exercising get fit and healthy in the safest and quickest way possible. I love that we are helping a lot of seniors with their health, energy, and vitality as they age.

Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Mama Lu’s, Red Ginger, Boathouse

Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? What brought you to Grand Traverse County?
We have lived here since September of 2017. We moved here to join my brother in a business venture and have since been apart of 3 different businesses

Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Sean Thornton

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
St. John, Virgin Islands. We went there for our honeymoon and can’t wait to go back!

Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Christmas Vacation (since its just after the holidays) and Game of Thrones, Parks and Rec, The Office

Q: What advice would you give to people who want to visit our community?
Go to as many wineries and restaurants as you can, visit Sleeping Bear Dunes and Torch Lake

Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Travel around the world. The trip is planned, just need the time!

Q: What current or former local business makes you feel the most nostalgic about our community?
Probably State Theater. I remember seeing that sign when we would visit when I was younger

Q: If you could choose anyone today with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you all meet for this lunch?*
Matthew McConaughey. I have always been a fan of his and I love his outlook on life, happiness and charity. The Burger Barge on torch Lake would be perfect for that lunch

Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love all of the water. So many beautiful Caribbean looking lakes to enjoy that nobody ever expects to see in northern MI

Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Still Living in TC, hopefully with a few more fit20 studios throughout the state.

Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I can do (a lot of) magic.. But gave it up a long time ago

Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
St. John!

Q: Favorite month? Favorite holiday? and the best single day on the calendar?
July, Christmas/4th of July are a tie, and June 29th- Masons Birthday!

Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My wife! Her intelligence and drive are contagious to me in the best way. She is incredibly caring and encouraging 100% of the time

Q: What is your favorite season in Northern Michigan? And what is your favorite activity to do in those seasons?
Summer! We are happiest when we are on our boat with friends!

Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Lake Michigan, Love and Happiness