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Stories That Bring Us Home

Troy Farkas brings people together for a sense of connection in impersonal times

The Seacoast was given a gift when Troy Farkas planted roots in Portsmouth two years ago. A storytelling, strategy, and connection powerhouse, Farkas is the creator and producer of the popular Seacoast Stories podcast and Seacoast Stories Dinner Club.

After a difficult chapter in his life, Farkas landed in Portsmouth. He was searching for a creative, grounding place rich in history, and after forming friendships at 3 Bridges Yoga, he decided to stay. “I’d been searching for home for years, and the Seacoast kept showing up,” said Farkas. He renewed his lease, and his wheels began churning. 

Farkas’ career included working with influential names, including ESPN and Spotify. While he’s grateful for those experiences, he sensed something deeper was calling him. He recognized a need for storytelling that went beyond sports and metrics. He craved personal—not digital—connection. Growing up as a performer, Farkas longed for a stage and belonging.

The inaugural episode of Seacoast Stories took place in June 2024. But it was in March of 2025 that Farkas reached a turning point that would ultimately change both his career and the Seacoast for the better. That’s when he hosted a live podcast on “The Found Generation” at the Music Hall Lounge, inviting Stephanie Paolini, owner of 3 Bridges Yoga, and Jennifer Wilder, owner of several hospitality brands including Laney and Lu. Seventy-five people filled the room. It was what Farkas calls the “ride or die” moment. His commitment going forward became a larger-than life pursuit.

What Farkas discovered on the Seacoast is a rare blend of personal meaning and professional fulfillment. He does it all. He is the on-air host, producer, camera director, ticket runner, event planner, and sponsorship lead. He secured 32 sponsors in 2025, and he obsesses over every detail. 

Farkas is committed to unveiling human truths that reveal vulnerability, identity, growth, and resilience. He believes that when we hear real stories, we connect on a more personal and communal level. 

Certain stories have shaped his vision. Episodes centered on yoga have been deeply meaningful because of his own practice. Stories about businesses, restaurants, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs such as Bird Dog Cider, Vernon Family Farm, Limitless Fitness, Red’s Good Vibes, David Vargas, Laura Fox, and Tanya Hart have been transformative for Farkas and his listeners. Some stories change individuals, while others change whole communities. 

Across hundreds of interviews, Farkas has noticed clear patterns: collaboration over competition, people wanting one another to succeed, and female entrepreneurs shaping the region. "There is a shared devotion to growth on the Seacoast. People are doing big things—and everyone is supportive of one another’s dreams."

Seacoast Stories quickly filled a gap the community needed. In July 2025, Farkas launched the Seacoast Stories Dinner Club, which has created meaningful connections in a technology-driven era. The dinners bring together people of different ages, backgrounds, and industries. The events are about belonging.

Farkas positions prompts on tables, asking questions like, “Who inspires you?” and “Tell me something you’ve never said before.” The result is intimacy and trust. He has witnessed something rare unfold at these gatherings. People linger long after events end. Conversations continue. It is humanizing. Diners share their fears, hopes, and personal stories. They exchange phone numbers and become friends.

Like many who live here, Farkas believes there is something special about the Seacoast. His belief, strengthened by his own success, is that people want to see you win. People encourage each other. When someone shares an idea, the response is: “How can I help?” Farkas has used storytelling and connection to spark something special in Portsmouth.