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Issue

LEADING

Clean You Deserve Fresh

The Gentlemen's Issue

This Gentlemen’s Issue of Harco City Lifestyle highlights the men in our community who are building, leading, and showing up with purpose, often in ways that extend far beyond their daily work.

In this issue, you’ll find stories of leadership shaped by experience, values, and a strong connection to the community. From a family business that has grown over generations while remaining rooted in service, to a young athlete pursuing his craft with discipline and focus, each reflects a different path, but a shared commitment to something larger.

You’ll also read about a group rethinking how businesses grow, taking a hands-on, partnership-driven approach to helping others scale in meaningful ways. In another feature, a local leader connects with businesses and nonprofits, using relationships and awareness to create lasting impact.

And in a more personal story, one longtime professional has shifted his focus toward creativity later in life, building something entirely new while drawing on decades of experience.

Together, these stories reflect the many ways men in our community are leading with intention and a clear sense of purpose.

Thank you for being part of Harco City Lifestyle, and for continuing to support the people and stories that make it strong.

DAVE BURRIS, PUBLISHER @HARCOCITYLIFESTYLE

June 2026

PUBLISHER

Dave Burris | dave.burris@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Jennifer Waldera | jennifer.waldera@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Kerry Paradis | kerry.paradis@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Margarita Scannell | margarita@genevapass.net

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kerry Paradis Photography, Shane CromwellNevins & Associates, Ujen Jonchhe, Sam Polakoff, Alan Pototsky, Val Scarborough, APGFCU, Dawn Bayer Photography, The Humane Society of Harford County, GKS Creative, Komodo Dragon Books, Liberty Pure Solutions, Pairings Bistro

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Liz Nixon

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN JUNE

1: Members of the Harford Community College Board of Trustees gather at Chesapeake Welcome Center grand opening. 2: Ribbon cutting for the new showroom at Ward Home Improvements. 3: Attendees at the Rock N Roll for Recovery event at Fallston Barrel House. 4: Nearly 550 pets were vaccinated and/or micro-chipped at a public clinic hosted by the Humane Society of Harford County. 5: Kelle Kalthof and Eileen Rice from Rockfield Manor at K&B Bridals Bubbly Soiree. 6: K&B Bridals staff at the Bubbly Soiree. 7: Ribbon cutting at Burton's Grill & Bar.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

KERRY PARADIS PHOTOGRAPHY

THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF HARFORD COUNTY KERRY PARADIS PHOTOGRAPHY

UJEN JONCHHE

KERRY PARADIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Liberty Pure at Home with Matt Stover

Liberty Pure Solutions had the privilege of installing a Whole-House Water Filtration system at none other than Baltimore’s All-Pro Kicker legend, Matt Stover. Just like all homeowners, Matt was looking for cleaner, better-tasting water and protection for his plumbing and appliances. Our team designed a system tailored specifically for his home and water conditions. It’s the same type of customized approach we bring to every home we work in. LibertyPure.com

Photography by Liberty Pure Solutions

Valerie and Shad Scarborough, owners of Stone View Farm in Darlington, Maryland, are expanding their mission beyond agriculture with the launch of their nonprofit, FarmFinity. Rooted in care farming, FarmFinity is designed to serve individuals within the special needs and disability community, those navigating mental health challenges, veterans, and individuals in recovery. Through hands-on experiences in farming, animal care, and nature-based programming, the Scarboroughs are creating a space where purpose, healing, and personal growth can flourish, bridging agriculture with meaningful community impact. StoneViewFarm.com

Scan to read more

Sixteen Years Behind the Lens in Harford County

Kerry Paradis has been a local photographer for 16 years in Harford County. She is the recipient of the Media Award from Harford Center, and has appeared on Harford TV and several podcasts. Kerry’s work extends from shooting local networking events and providing services for the Harford County Chamber ribbon cuttings to staff photography for Harco City Lifestyle and wedding, newborn, and family photo shoots. Paradis said, “I’m dedicated to my trade and absolutely love capturing all the milestones throughout people’s lives.” KerryParadisPhotography.com

Scan to read more

Photography by Val Scarborough

Photography by Dawn Bayer Photography

Built on VALUES AND VISION

A LEGACY BUILT ON SERVICE AND CONNECTION

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANE CROMWELL, NEVINS & ASSOCIATES

Jacob Klein, Sarah Klein, Marshall Klein, Stephen Klein, David Klein

Photo Credit: Shane Cromwell, Nevins & Associates

For the Klein family, business has always been about more than what’s on the shelves. It’s about people, connection, and a commitment that spans generations.

“Originally, our family started out in the general grocery business in 1925 with a store in Fallston,” said Marshall Klein, the president of the family business. “We’ve grown from that single location to nine stores today.”

That growth hasn’t changed the family’s approach. “We are hands-on, value-driven operators,” Marshall said. “The culture of our business is to be front-line focused.” Vice President Sarah Klein agrees. “It makes you feel really in touch with the community,” she said. “We want to participate in the community, not just run businesses in it.”

That connection shows up visibly in the products that shoppers can find in the Klein’s stores. “Our product assortment engages with the community,” said vice president David Klein. “You can find local products made right here in Harford County and throughout Maryland. We’ve been a launchpad for businesses that are right here.”

Giving back to the community is also a high priority for the family-run business. Through the Klein’s ShopRite of

Klein’s 100th Anniversary Grocery Sweep Event at Forest Hill

Photo Credit: Shane Cromwell, Nevins & Associates

The Klein Family’s annual Maryland Food Bank Donation, Photo Credit: Shane Cromwell, Nevins & Associates

Maryland Charitable Fund, the family focuses on three core areas: health, education, and hunger.

“It is a core value of our family that we support the people who support us,” Marshall said.

That commitment to community stems from their family’s fundamental beliefs in the importance of supporting the foundational needs of people in the county. “My grandmother believed you shouldn’t have to go to Baltimore to have good health care,” Sarah said, referencing Shirley Klein’s role in shaping the Upper Chesapeake Health System.

“Everything that was instilled in us was to give back to the community.”

Programs like ShopRite’s Partners in Caring have helped expand that impact.

“It’s accelerated our ability to help,” Marshall said. “Being part of a cooperative gave us a level of scale we didn’t have as single operators.”

Marshall said. “Now there’s somewhere people can go when they don’t know what to do.”

For David, the impact is something he sees every day. “I get stopped equal amounts on the behavioral health center as I do the supermarket,” he said. “It’s really humbling -- the amount of support, recognition, and acknowledgment.”

Even as the business continues to grow, the Kleins are focused on balancing tradition with innovation. “Our uncle Michael is very fond of retelling our family’s history,” David said. “It keeps us grounded and informs how we move forward.”

We want to participate in the community, not just run businesses in it.

That approach allows each store and its teams to give in ways that feel meaningful locally. “We give them the ability to choose charities that resonate with the staff,” Marshall said. “Our associates are part of the communities we serve, and they can identify needs and respond to them directly.”

The family’s commitment has also extended into behavioral health, an area they saw as a need in the community, which was the impetus for the creation of the Klein Family Center. “There wasn’t really a facility able to address that need,”

At the same time, the Kleins are intent on moving forward. “We’re from a very entrepreneurial family and some of that is taking risks and trying new things,” Marshall said. “We take into consideration what the customer wants and needs. We help people save money and make their shopping experience better.”

Relationships in the store are also shaped by the Klein’s approach. “Our associates are essentially part of our extended family,” Marshall said. “When you walk into one of our stores, it’s like walking into a house.”

As the family moves forward, they are focused on continued growth, but not for its own sake. “If we can grow, our ability to impact the community grows,” David said. “That’s what excites us.”

410-967-9896(c)

410-879-7466(o) chris@streetthopkins.com

FROM LOGISTICS TO LITERATURE

AFTER YEARS IN LEADERSHIP, SAM POLAKOFF BEGAN WRITING HIS NEXT CHAPTER.

At just 13 years old, Sam Polakoff began working part-time for his father’s supply chain management company, TBB Global Logistics (now Nexterus). Six years later, after completing his associate’s degree, he took on a full-time role while working toward his bachelor’s degree in marketing at Towson University.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA PHOTOGRAPHY

BY CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Despite pledging at that time that he’d work for just a few more years at the family business founded by his grandfather, Abraham Allan Polakoff, Sam spent a total of 49 years at the company,

ultimately taking on the role of CEO. But during that time, he also pursued his personal passion: writing.

“I started writing novels in my fifties,” Polakoff said. “It was a challenge from a business coach. He said: What’s something you always wanted to accomplish that you’ve never done?”

Starting the process did prove to be challenging. “I had all of these ideas, but I sat down in front of the screen, and I didn’t know what to do,” he said. “I had been a technical writer, I wrote reports for clients -- but a novel is something completely different.”

Eventually, Polakoff was able to channel a recurring dream that he’d had about his late grandfather into five chapters that would be the basis of his first novel, “Hiatus.” However, while he had crafted a foundation for the story, his writing still felt unrefined. But with a stroke of luck, he received a recommendation from a fellow writer at a friend’s barbecue to reach out to Diane O’Connell, a professional who helps first-time authors build their brands and get their books published.

As a prior editor for prominent publishing companies like Random House and Sesame Workshop, and author of six books and hundreds of magazine articles, O’Connell acts as a coach for new writers. At that time, she hosted writing retreats in the Berkshires in Massachusetts, and attending turned out to be a breakthrough for Polakoff. He was one of a small group of writers that O’Connell chose to work with long-term, and after over three years of writing and revisions, the collaboration resulted in the publication of “Hiatus” in January of 2018 through his own publishing company, Komodo Dragon Books.

After that, Polakoff said the process got easier. Since “Hiatus,” he has published five more novels and continues to write. His early books are primarily categorized as thrillers with themes related to science fiction, politics, medicine, and/or the paranormal. One, “Escaping Mercy,” was a winner of the American Fiction Awards and received two other recognitions by the National Indie Excellence Awards and Shelf Unbound.

More recently, Polakoff has switched gears, delving into historical fiction with his “Essie Lassiter Trilogy.” “I’ve always been fascinated by history, and as a reader, I enjoy reading historical fiction,” Polakoff said, explaining his transition to historical fiction. “I used to love to learn about foreign lands and world events through stories. If the author did a good job, I probably learned a lot of things that would have been boring in a different way.”

The trilogy tells the story of a young English midwife who overcomes seemingly insurmountable challenges in both London and Maryland in the 18th century. The first of the three books, “The Diary of Essie Lassiter,” was published in December 2024 and was a finalist in the National

Indie Excellence Awards. The second, “Freedom’s Lonely Cry,” became available in March of 2026.

Crafting the most recent novels required a different approach and some input from family. “Writing a first-person account from a woman’s perspective in 1773 was very challenging, but I wanted a challenge,” he said. “It took extra time, and I relied on both my wife and daughter for feedback.”

Today, Polakoff is no longer balancing the demands of running a company and writing. In 2025, he passed the torch to his son Ryan. The younger Polakoff took on the role of CEO at Nexterus in January of that year, making it one of the few family businesses in the United States that successfully transferred from the third generation to the fourth. “I still talk to Ryan. [At first], we were talking every day. Now we talk once or twice a week,” Sam said. “I still own the majority of the company, and I’m working on a plan to transition that over to him. He’s done a great job, and I’m very proud of him.”

The elder Polakoff is still keeping himself busy beyond his pursuits related to publishing from his home office in Forest Hill. For several years, he has been involved in a group that hosts author and artist events, but more recently, he has worked to build a large-scale festival that debuted in May. The Chesapeake Regional Authors & Artists Festival (CRAA Fest) is a multi-day event that features over 80 artists, from writers and muralists to improv performers and more. Plus, the event goes beyond sharing art and giving visibility to its makers -- it also gives back. “We became a 501(c)(3) so all of the proceeds can be distributed to charities that support the development of art and writing.”

Jay, Sam, and Ryan Polakoff.

Photo courtesy of Sam Polakoff.

A Career Built on Community

Business Development Director Izak Battle connects people, purpose, and progress across Harford County.

WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE AS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR LOOK LIKE DAY TO DAY?

A day in my life as a Business Development Director can take many forms. I may start my day in jeans and a polo at an outdoor event and end the day at a gala in a tuxedo! The great thing is, no matter the event or the attire, it is always in support of an organization doing great things and meaningful work in the community. Knowing that I have a part in supporting them through APG Federal Credit Union (APGFCU) is very fulfilling.

I also partner with area businesses to introduce them to our APGFCU@Work program. This is a free service we offer to businesses to introduce the benefits of credit union membership and financial education to their employees. These services range from account openings to seminars like “how to reduce your spending.” It is a great program that can help businesses retain their talent by helping them budget and plan for the future.

CAN YOU WALK US THROUGH YOUR BACKGROUND AND THE EXPERIENCES THAT SHAPED YOUR APPROACH TO LEADERSHIP?

I have been in the financial services industry for over 25 years. Most of my career has been spent leading a team to exceed goals and expectations. The time that I have spent assisting clients on their path to financial

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA | PHOTOGRAPHY

BY KERRY PARADIS PHOTOGRAPHY

well-being has shaped my leadership approach in the belief that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone has different backgrounds and experiences, and you have to tap into those to meet them at a place where they are willing to be coached.

Assisting clients and team members on their journey side by side, rather than from a higher position, [helps them] become more open to coaching and growth. You have to be in it with them, not dictate to them.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PART OF THE HARFORD COUNTY COMMUNITY, AND WHAT HAS KEPT YOU ROOTED HERE?

My family relocated here from upstate New York 12 years ago. Raising our children here and getting them involved in extracurricular activities such as soccer, basketball, dance, and many other activities has helped us to become rooted here by meeting new people in the community. Being able to explore the area on Sunday

Izak Battle.

Photo Credit: Kerry Paradis Photography

drives has also helped us discover great places and history throughout Harford County.

IN YOUR CURRENT ROLE, HOW ARE YOU WORKING TO CREATE MEANINGFUL OR LASTING IMPACT, BOTH WITHIN YOUR ORGANIZATION AND BEYOND IT?

Getting involved with area nonprofits through APGFCU and understanding their mission has been a great experience. Through that work, I have been able to involve myself, my family, and my colleagues in activities to support these nonprofits and their endeavors.

I always say, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” My role at APGFCU has enabled me to be in the know and spread that awareness to others. This directly impacts the nonprofits by

giving them another voice in the community to shine a light on the positive work that they are doing.

WHAT DOES “POSITIVE CHANGE” LOOK LIKE TO YOU, AND HOW DO YOU PUT THAT INTO ACTION IN YOUR WORK?

Positive change is getting involved. I have been increasingly active in the community because of my work at APGFCU. I have also found so many wonderful nonprofits and businesses that I have been able to personally work with and support outside of my work.

ARE THERE ANY COMMUNITY INITIATIVES, PARTNERSHIPS, OR CAUSES YOU’RE ESPECIALLY PASSIONATE ABOUT RIGHT NOW?

I am currently involved with the Harford Leadership Academy (HLA). HLA is a program co-sponsored by Harford Community College and the Harford County Chamber of Commerce. It is designed to promote the development of emerging and existing leaders and to create a committed, involved, and diverse network within Harford County.

I have learned so much about our local government, education system, and resources available in the community through

Izak Battle presenting a check to Fresh Start Furnishings.

Photo courtesy of APGFCU.

Izak Battle at a community event. Photo courtesy of APGFCU.

this program. It has allowed me to be more informative to my friends and colleagues about the resources and opportunities, which may seem to be invisible, but are in plain sight.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE PROFESSIONAL GROWTH WITH PERSONAL FULFILLMENT, AND WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED?

Professionally, my work allows for growth by exercising a lot of different skill sets, including event planning, budgeting, speaking engagements, etc. There is always a lot going on, often at the same time. The part that keeps me personally motivated is the impact my work has on the community. There are many great people who are behind the area nonprofits that I have had the pleasure of meeting through my activities. Knowing that my work is an integral part of them being able to provide community services is very fulfilling.

WHAT LESSONS HAVE STAYED WITH YOU THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER THAT STILL GUIDE YOUR DECISIONS TODAY?

You can always do a little more. We have a lot of competing priorities these days, both professionally and personally. But whatever the situation, you can always do a little more. That extra effort is usually the thing that makes the greatest impact. If everyone just did a little bit more, no matter the task, think about the impact that would have across the board.

OUTSIDE OF WORK, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME IN HARFORD COUNTY?

Spending time outdoors with my family is my happy place. Our children are getting older now, so whether it’s in the backyard, at a game, or on an early morning back road drive to a car show, family time is the best!

Izak Battle. Photo Credit: Kerry Paradis Photography

Izak Battle at the Harford County Government Homebuyer Expo.

Photo courtesy of APGFCU.

RACING A RISING NAME IN

A young local driver blends skill, focus, and ambition behind the wheel.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRY PARADIS PHOTOGRAPHY, BRENDON CRONIN

Brendon Cronin racing.

Photo courtesy of Brendon Cronin

Brendon Cronin.

Photo Credit: Kerry Paradis Photography

At just 18, Havre de Grace native Brendon Cronin is already turning heads in the world of racing, moving from virtual tracks to national podiums in just a few short years.

“I’ve liked cars all my life,” Cronin said. What began with a gifted steering wheel evolved into hours on iRacing, where he raced routinely and sharpened his technique. “All throughout the pandemic, I just kept getting faster and faster.”

That virtual experience translated into real-world success. After working his way through indoor and outdoor karting, Cronin entered a Sports Car Club of America competition, starting in Formula Vee before advancing to Formula Continental. He secured a second-place finish at the SCCA Runoffs and earned the coveted Jim Fitzgerald Rookie of the Year award. “I looked at the past winners and there are a lot who have made their names in professional racing. It’s nice to be able to see my name along with them.”

Behind the wheel, the demands are intense. “People think you’re just driving around in circles,” Cronin said. “But it’s a full-body workout.” Without power steering or assisted braking, drivers endure high G-forces while maintaining precision and focus. “You need strength, endurance, and a team behind you. Without a good team, you won’t have a car that’s competitive enough to win.”

That support system extends at home. “My family has been involved in every step,” he says. “And my faith has helped me stay focused and push through challenges.”

Cronin also carries his hometown with him -- he races with a Havre de Grace flag on his helmet. “It’s a place where people are happy for each other,” he said. “I wanted to represent that.”

Looking ahead, Cronin’s sights are set on the USF2000 series and, ultimately, IndyCar Series, with a dream of winning the Indianapolis 500. He’s also focused on building the partnerships that will help fuel that next step. “Right now, the biggest thing is funding,” Cronin says. “I’m looking to connect with companies. I wish to be able to find sponsors who are able to back this and build both of our brands together.”

Reach out to Brendon for partnership opportunities or learn more about him and his racing at: BrendonCroninRacing.com.

Brendon Cronin next to his car.

Photo courtesy of Brendon Cronin

Brendon Cronin.

Photo Credit: Kerry Paradis Photography

GROWTH Backed By EXPERIENCE

A seasoned team brings strategy, structure, and support to small businesses.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRY PARADIS PHOTOGRAPHY

A trio of experienced professionals with strong roots in Harford County is using their own approach to building businesses that thrive. Together, they’ve created a model grounded in partnership, shared expertise, and long-term impact.

“Ten years ago, I had an IT company, DNA, and I dreamed of an empire, but didn’t know how it was going to work out,” said Tony Hatzigeorgalis, CEO of Watchtower Business Services. “I then brought in Dean and Justin, and we united.” That evolution led to the creation of Watchtower Business Services, a parent company launched three years ago that now partners with a range of ventures across industries to propel them forward.

The model is intentionally hands-on. “We are venture capitalists that trade equity for partnership,” said Justin Gera, one member of the executive team who heads up business development. “We are essentially an executive backbone that you can imagine attaching to any small business if they meet our requirements. We immediately give that company an energizing force. All of the knowledge, expertise, tools… this has a place, and it’s of extreme value.” Rather than passive investment, the team embeds itself in businesses, helping owners scale beyond what they thought might be possible.

That leadership is anchored by both experience and a strong ability to work together as lifelong friends. Dean Hadjis, CFO, previously also served in the same role for Peter Angelos and brings that knowledge to Watchtower. “We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses,” Hadjis said. “That’s what makes this possible.”

Today, Watchtower is based in nearby Elkton, but its ties to Harford County remain strong. The portfolio reflects that

Dean Hadjis, Justin Gera, and Tony Hatzigeorgalis. Photo Credit: Kerry Paradis Photography

range with HVAC operations like Complete Mechanical Solutions and agricultural ventures like Fresh Source Farm. “We target companies that we can make a difference in,” Hatzigeorgalis says.

Community remains central to Watchtower’s mission. “We help promote and sponsor events,” Hadjis said, noting partnerships with local schools and nonprofits. “Anything that we can do to help spread the word, promote other people, and plug through our vast network is a huge [part of our] effort.”

The executives have a shared straightforward philosophy. Hatzigeorgalis said, “Don’t talk about it -- be about it.”

Tony Hatzigeorgalis.

Photo Credit: Kerry Paradis Photography

Dean Hadjis.

Photo Credit: Kerry Paradis Photography

Justin Gera.

Photo Credit: Kerry Paradis Photography

Broad Creek Manor is where refined assisted living meets the comfort of home — a destination unlike any other.

Nestled on 23 scenic acres with sweeping views of the Susquehanna River, we offer more than care — we provide peace of mind and a true sense of home. Our boutique, family-owned community is defined by personalized attention, a low staff-to-resident ratio, a promise of luxury living, and a commitment to keeping residents independent.

Sophisticated Take on

Summer Sipping A

BRIGHT STRAWBERRIES, CITRUS, AND BASIL COME TOGETHER IN A REFINED COCKTAIL FOR EFFORTLESS ENTERTAINING.

The bar team at Pairings Bistro works together to craft new and creative cocktails each season. This one is perfect for warm-weather sipping and was shaken up by Pairings as the signature cocktail at Harco City Lifestyle’s Launch Party in April. Try whipping it up for all of your summery gatherings that call for a refreshing, easy-to-make crowdpleaser or allow the amazing team at Pairings Bistro to make it for you.

Strawberry Fields

INGREDIENTS

• 2 ounces tequila

• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 ounce honey syrup

• 1 egg white

• 4-5 strawberries muddled

• Drizzle of Dimitri’s 18-year balsamic vinegar

• Basil and dehydrated strawberries for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Muddle 4 strawberries and 2 basil leaves and transfer to a cocktail shaker.

2. Add tequila, lemon juice, honey syrup, and egg white.

3. Add ice and shake vigorously.

4. Finely strain and serve in a coupe glass.

5. Garnish with basil, dehydrated strawberries, and a swirl of Dimitri balsamic vinegar.

Visit Pairings Bistro at 2105 Laurel Bush Rd #108, Bel Air, MD 21015. PairingsBistro.com

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAIRINGS BISTRO

Strawberry Fields cocktail.

Photo courtesy of Pairings Bistro.

AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST

Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short

Creative Director: Jen Birn

Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill

Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX

MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.

After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.

Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?

A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”

THE QUIET STANDARD:

MIKE JOHNSON

“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”

— Mike Johnson

Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?

A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”

Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?

A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”

This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

MIKE JOHNSON

JUNE 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

VARIOUS DATES

Paws and Read

Harford County Public Library -Various Library Locations

Get cozy with a good book and a four-legged friend at Harford County Public Library. This fun program pairs readers with trained therapy dogs for relaxed, one-on-one sessions designed to build confidence and make reading fun. Registration required; visit HCPLOnline.org for dates and locations.

FIRST FRIDAY EVENINGS EACH MONTH THROUGH OCTOBER

Havre de Grace First Fridays

711 Pennington Ave, Havre De Grace,

Set along the Susquehanna River, Havre de Grace First Fridays turn the waterfront town into a lively destination. Stroll the streets to explore live music, browse work from local artists and vendors, grab a bite from food trucks, and enjoy car shows and family-friendly activities throughout the town.

Live Music at Fiore Winery & Distillery

3026 Whiteford Rd, Pylesville, MD 21132 | 1:00 - 4:00 PM

Pack a picnic and settle in for a laidback Sunday at Fiore Winery. Enjoy live music from 1-4 pm while sipping wine available for purchase -- no tickets required. In case of inclement weather, the event moves indoors with seating, making it an easygoing way to spend the afternoon, rain or shine. FioreWinery.com

Summer Concert Series

Spend your summer evenings enjoying live music at beautiful Shamrock Park!

The Summer Concert Series runs from June 7 to August 16, featuring a variety of talented performers the whole family will love. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and friends for a relaxing night of great music and summer vibes.

SUNDAYS

Bend & Brew at Independent Brewing Company

418 N Main St, Bel Air, MD 21014

Start your Sunday with a stretch and a sip at Independent Brewing Company. Bend & Brew Yoga offers a one-hour, all-levels class led by certified instructors, followed by a drink (included in the ticket price). Held outdoors in warm weather and indoors during colder months or inclement weather, it’s an easy way to reset for the week ahead. For tickets, visit IndependentBrew.com.

JUNE 7TH

Sinatra at the Sands with Chris Pinella

700 Congress Ave, Havre De Grace, MD 21078 | 5:00 PM

Celebrate the 60th anniversary of Sinatra at the Sands with vocalist Chris Pinnella and a 14-piece big band at The Star Centre. The immersive concert recreates the iconic live album in full, complete with original audio clips from Frank Sinatra, along with many timeless favorites. StarCentreMD.com

JUNE 13TH-14TH

KarmaFest Unity '26

Steppingstone Museum, 461 Quaker Bottom Road, Havre de Grace, 21078MD

Spend a weekend reconnecting at KarmaFest Unity '26, June 13-14. This two-day gathering features yoga classes, guided meditations, hands-on workshops, and a curated lineup of vendors offering a variety of products and services. Choose single-day or weekend tickets, or upgrade to VIP for access to two exclusive workshops. KarmaFest.com. June 13th, 10am-10pm and June 14th, 10am-6pm