Behind the Mitten

This week takes us from blue water to blue water, with stops in the Thumb and Traverse City. First up, we have breaking news with our friends from the National Writer’s Series, which if you didn’t know, is a year-long book festival that happens both in person, and online. Kendall Kotcher joins us to share which amazing authors will be visiting TC this year, and let’s just say that once again, they’ve got some great ones. Here’s a hint for one: he might talk pretty one day. Then we’ll discuss taking a fun and informative boat cruise on the Huron Lady in Port Huron with owners Dusty and Kristy Walker. We’ll visit our number one pick for Michigan’s Best Diner, a fabulous spot located in Anchor Bay and owned by uber-talented Chris Hart. She’ll catch us up on what’s cooking….and baking….at the M-29 Diner. Finally, a little more coverage from TC, where we recently got to attend the Traverse City Food and Wine Festival. We’ll talk with Trevor Tkach about the changing food scene in Michigan’s pinkie, and we’ll just say it’s garnering national attention.Segment 1: Kendall Kotcher, NWSSegment 2: Huron Lady IISegment 3: M-29 DinerSegment 4: Trevor Tkach, Traverse City TourismBehind the Mitten is Michigan's premire travel radio show and podcast.Episode 767Aug. 29-30, 2026

John Gonzalez of Behind the Mitten previews this weekend's show with stops in Traverse City, Port Huron and Anchor Bay. He and co-host Amy Sherman are guests of The Morning Wake Up each Thursday on WILS-AM (1320) in Lansing.Behind the Mitten can be heard Saturdays from 8-9am on 1320 WILS.Our affiliates and air times across the state:Fridays• 8:10 AM — News/Talk/Sports 105.5 FM WPHM (Port Huron)Saturdays• 8:00 AM — WBRN 1460 AM / 107.7 FM / 96.5 FM (Big Rapids)• 8:00 AM — WILS 1320 AM (Lansing)• 10:00 AM — News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM (Benton Harbor)• 12:00 PM — News/Talk 600 and 93.5 WCHT (Escanaba)• 4:00 PM — WIOS “The Bay’s Best!” 1480 AM / 106.9 FM (Tawas / East Tawas)• 5:00 PM — WMIC “The Voice of the Thumb” 660 AM / 95.3 FM (Sandusky)Sundays• 6:00 AM — News/Talk 600 and 93.5 WCHT (Escanaba)• 7:00 AM — Black Diamond Broadcasting Stations:  -WCFX — CFX Today’s Hits (95.3) — Mt. Pleasant  -WGFN — The Bear (98.1 / 95.3) — Traverse City  -WMRX — Sunny 97.7 — Midland  -WUPS — The Classic Hits Station-UPS (98.5) — Houghton Lake  -WWMK — 106.3 MAC FM — Cheboygan• 1:00 PM — WSGW 790 AM / 100.5 FM (Saginaw)• 6:00 PM — WOOD 1300 AM / 106.9 FM (Grand Rapids)

Each Thursday, Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez share with listeners of WILS-1320AM what to expect on their Behind the Mitten radio show. This weekend Amy talks about why she loves Gaylord like a second home.

Each Friday, Gonzo and Amy Sherman give listeners of WPHM (105.5-FM) a preview of Behind the Mitten weekend's show. This week they are in Gaylord.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

Amy Sherman of Behind the Mitten hangs out with Rob and Kent of CFX-95.3 every Thursday to preview this weekend's show.

Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier travel radio show and podcastEpisode 766Aug. 22-23, 2026On this weekend’s show we learn why Gaylord is a perfect fall destination.In addition to great fall color tours, you will learn about the Pigeon River Country State Forest, home to 120,000 acres of Northern Michigan wilderness, six lakes, three rivers, horse trails and camps, 60 miles of biking and some 1,200 elk and special exhibits and classes at the Pigeon River Discovery Center. In fact, they have a mushroom hunting class on Sept. 13, which makes Amy happy as a former Mushroom Hunters junior club member, and a nature photography class on Oct. 17.Tune in to learn more about the new Elk Viewing Area maintained by the city where you can see the elk up close and personal.We check in with our friends at Jay's Sporting Goods to learn about some the newest accessories to make your outdoor adventures even more adventurous.And, and always, our good friends at the Gaylord Tourism Bureau share why Gaylord’s natural beauty make it the perfect "all outdoors" fall destination.Learn more about the Gaylord area at gaylordmichigan.net.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

Behind the Mitten, Michigan's premier travel radio show and podcastEPISODE 765Aug. 15-16, 2026The show includes fun things to do in the Port Huron area, including the opening for the Cheesburger Festival in Caseville (Aug. 14-23). Amy spends the day making a few stops in Spring Lake and Grand Haven. And John gets some mouthwatering doughnuts at Buttercrust Bakery in Bridgeport (near Frankenmuth).Follow John and Amy's adventures on their new Substack page. Just go to amyandgonzo.com to learn more.Want more events and things to do in Michigan? Follow the West Michigan Tourist Association, the official partner of Behind the Mitten. Go to WMTA.org.

John Gonzalez of Behind the Mitten appears on the Mike Austin Show on WILS-AM (1320) in Lansing to talk about what is in store on this weekend's BTM show.The show includes fun things to do in the Port Huron area, including the opening for the Cheesburger Festival in Caseville (Aug. 14-23). Amy spends the day making a few stops in Spring Lake and Grand Haven. And John gets some mouthwatering doughnuts at Buttercrust Bakery in Bridgeport (near Frankenmuth).

Behind the Mitten, Michigan's premier travel radio show and podcastEPISODE 764Aug. 8-9, 2026This episode is all about food, travel and music. That's right up BTM's alley!A big portion of the show is focused on Traverse City Food and Wine, which is back bigger, bolder, and more delicious than ever, with 80 events, a fully functional demonstration kitchen, sold-out chef dinners, and rare up-close moments with some of the biggest names in food.Amy Sherman sits down with Whitney Waara, COO of Traverse City Tourism, to unpack why year two of the festival feels like the real breakthrough. From collaboration dinners with multiple chefs to waterfront tastings, market-basket challenges, and the new Open Space Park kitchen built for real cooking, Whitney shares how Traverse City is turning August 19-23 into a choose-your-own-adventure for food lovers.In addition:John Gonzalez checks in with foodie Chad Lamar of Grand Rapids who is a truck driver by day, but uses his travels to explore some of his favorite destinations all over the country. John interviews Chad while in line at Stubburn BBQ in Grand Rapids.And Amy and Gonzo interview bluegrass musician Mark Lavengood, a.k.a. Huggy Bear, who is the master of ceremonies at the first ever (and SOLD OUT!) Ionia Freak Fair (Aug. 28-29). You will learn more about Mark's musical background, what it's like to be on stage with Billy Strings and Greensky Bluegrass, and his early years, when he played middle school basketball at Comstock Park - with John as his coach. We're not making that up!Follow John and Amy's adventures on their new Substack page. Just go to amyandgonzo.com to learn more.Want more events and things to do in Michigan? Follow the West Michigan Tourist Association, the official partner of Behind the Mitten. Go to WMTA.org.

Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premiere travel radio show and podcast.Episode 763Aug. 1-2, 2026Josh & Jase EpisodeOn this weekend's show, we look at the popularity of British social media influencers Josh & Jase, and how they have taken Michigan by storm. After arriving last winter and experiencing a good old-fashioned Pure Michigan winter and record snowfall, they returned in late July to soak up the sun and Great Lakes vibes.We go behind the scenes with the duo, revealing how their spontaneous, comment-driven approach fuels their adventure — and why their genuine reactions are contagious.Their journey isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about capturing the soul of Michigan through the eyes of visitors who are seeing it for the first time. It's like how we do things at Behind the Mitten.We loved having them on the show. Thanks, guys.Our Current StationsFridays• 8:10 AM — News/Talk/Sports 105.5 FM WPHM (Port Huron)Saturdays• 8:00 AM — WBRN 1460 AM / 107.7 FM / 96.5 FM (Big Rapids)• 8:00 AM — WILS 1320 AM (Lansing)• 10:00 AM — News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM (Benton Harbor)• 12:00 PM — News/Talk 600 and 93.5 WCHT (Escanaba)• 4:00 PM — WIOS “The Bay’s Best!” 1480 AM / 106.9 FM (Tawas / East Tawas)• 5:00 PM — WMIC “The Voice of the Thumb” 660 AM / 95.3 FM (Sandusky)Sundays• 6:00 AM — News/Talk 600 and 93.5 WCHT (Escanaba)• 7:00 AM — Black Diamond Broadcasting Stations:  -WCFX — CFX Today’s Hits (95.3) — Mt. Pleasant  -WGFN — The Bear (98.1 / 95.3) — Traverse City  -WMRX — Sunny 97.7 — Midland  -WUPS — The Classic Hits Station-UPS (98.5) — Houghton Lake  -WWMK — 106.3 MAC FM — Cheboygan• 1:00 PM — WSGW 790 AM / 100.5 FM (Saginaw)• 6:00 PM — WOOD 1300 AM / 106.9 FM (Grand Rapids)

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman make stops in Marshall, Grand Rapids, National City and a fun U-Pick farm in Ottawa County.Segment 1-Amy and Gonzo welcome Joe Caron, former mayor of Marshall, and current GM at Schuler's Restaurant & Pub, about the upcoming Classics & Cocktails event at Venue 19Zero9 (July 31) and the 3rd annual Marshall Motorfest (Aug. 1).Segment 2-Amy takes us to Crisp Country Acres in Holland, where co-owner Lindsey Visser tells us about the U-Pick opportunities at their family farm. You can find Crisp Country Acres at the Muskegon Farmer's Market on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and at the Kalamazoo Farmer's Market on Saturdays. Learn more crispcountryacres.com.Segment 3-Mark and Missy Stubbs, along with daughter, Tyler, operate Stubburn BBQ, a Texas-style BBQ joint that cooks with 100% apple wood in Walker (near Grand Rapids). They open one day week - noon Sundays. Brisket is the top seller (they sell 200 pounds on the weekend), but eveything is lip-smacking good. The sides, rubs and sauces are all made in house.Segment 4- Sand Lake Microbrewery is a hidden gem just north of M-55 between East Tawas and Hale on Sand Lake Road in National City. They have about 7 beers on tap, and other offerings for those who like wine, cider, and hard iced teas. They also have a fun, tiki bar-theme on the patio heavily inspired by co-owners (Brandon and Tammy) and their trips to Key West. They recently celebrated their fifth anniversary. Learn more at sandlakemicrobrewery.com.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

Behind the Mitten - Bonus episode (July 23, 2026)Every Thursday, Gonzo and Amy Sherman preview what's on Behind the Mitten on WILS-AM (1320) in Lansing on the Mike Austin Show. On Thursday, July 23, Amy joined in to talk about out our show this weekend, which will feature stops at a brewery in National City, a BBQ joint in Grand Rapids and a U-Pick farm in Ottawa County.Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier radio show and podcast since 2015.Listen to the podcast on all popular podcast platforms.When can you listen on the radio? Tune in:Fridays• 8:10 AM — News/Talk/Sports 105.5 FM WPHM (Port Huron)Saturdays• 8:00 AM — WBRN 1460 AM / 107.7 FM / 96.5 FM (Big Rapids)• 8:00 AM — WILS 1320 AM (Lansing)• 10:00 AM — News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM (Benton Harbor)• 12:00 PM — News/Talk 600 and 93.5 WCHT (Escanaba)• 4:00 PM — WIOS “The Bay’s Best!” 1480 AM / 106.9 FM (Tawas / East Tawas)• 5:00 PM — WMIC “The Voice of the Thumb” 660 AM / 95.3 FM (Sandusky)Sundays• 6:00 AM — News/Talk 600 and 93.5 WCHT (Escanaba)• 7:00 AM — Black Diamond Broadcasting Stations:  -WCFX — CFX Today’s Hits (95.3) — Mt. Pleasant  -WGFN — The Bear (98.1 / 95.3) — Traverse City  -WMRX — Sunny 97.7 — Midland  -WUPS — The Classic Hits Station (98.5) — Houghton Lake  -WWMK — 106.3 MAC FM — Cheboygan• 1:00 PM — WSGW 790 AM / 100.5 FM (Saginaw)• 6:00 PM — WOOD 1300 AM / 106.9 FM (Grand Rapids)Find podcasts and more at amyandgonzo.com.

We're excited to announce that Behind the Mitten is returning to WPHM-FM 105.5 in Port Huron!For years, WPHM carried our full weekend show. After some programming changes at the station in April, we're thrilled to be back in a new role as a weekly travel and lifestyle feature on The Paul Miller Show, airing Fridays at 8:10 a.m.We want to sincerely thank Paul Miller and WPHM General Manager Scott Shigley for welcoming us back to one of Michigan's great heritage radio stations. We're grateful for the opportunity to continue sharing stories about the people, places, food, drink and experiences that make Michigan such a special place to explore.Our first segment is now available as a podcast and includes a conversation about the current state of Michigan's craft beer industry and some of the trends we're seeing across the state.Thanks for listening, and if you're in the Blue Water Area, be sure to tune in every Friday at 8:10 a.m. on WPHM 105.5 FM or listen live online at wphm.net.More travel stories are on the way!Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier radio show and podcast. Learn more at amyandgonzo.com.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman explore the west side of Grand Rapids, which has underdone a great transformation over the last decade. But with a new soccer club, AC Grand Rapids, beginning play in 2027, and the new Acrisure Amphitheater opening in 2026, is the area west of the Grand River ready for the infusion of activity?Certainly the excitement of the the World Cup 2026 has helped sparked interest for AC Grand Rapids season tickets as 4,000 people have already put down deposits for the 8,500-seat arena being built right off the US 131 expressway.We talk to about soccer in GR and the support of the west side business community.Segment 1-Amy and Gonzo let people know what to expect from the west sideSegment 2-Christian Van Andel, Director of Business Operations and one of the owners of AC Grand Rapids (Athletic Club Grand Rapids), talks about the level of play for the new team, and more about the new Amway StadiumSegment 3-Christian Van Andel returns with Dave Ringler of the nearby Kusterer Brauhaus, who explains how breweries and local restaurants support the emerging sport of soccer in GR.Segment 4- Rick Muschiana, chef at popular Scandinavian restaurant The Sovengard talks about how his restaurant's seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and a menu inspired by the New Nordic movement plays a role in bringing people to the west side.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Keep up to date on events throughout the state at WMTA.org.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman celebrate Michigan Craft Beer Month with City Built Brewery and Kusterer Brauhaus in Grand Rapids, Cedar Spring Brewery in Cedar Springs and good times with Nate Blury of DrinkGR and Dan Miller of The Beer Truck.Segment 1-Edwin Collazo of City Built BrewingSegment 2-Dan Miller of The Beer Truck and Dave Ringler of Kusterer Brauhaus and Cedar Springs BrewingSegment 3-More with Dan and DaveSegment 4-Nate Blury of DrinkGR social clubLearn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Keep up to date on events throughout the state at WMTA.org.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman share how  Detroit sports played a major role in the city's revival.Segment 1-Benita Douglas, Detroit Welcome Center Travel CounselorSegment 2-Ken Hayward, Visit Detroit's Chief Operating OfficerSegment 3- Brush Park Bodega; the revitalization of neighborhoodsSegment 4-Comerica Park Beer Hall; a great gathering spotLearn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Keep up to date on events throughout the state at WMTA.org.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman share how you can celebrate America 250 all season long at Mackinac State Historic Parks.Segment 1-Phil Porter, Historian and Director Emeritus of Mackinac State Hstoric ParksSegment 2-Dominick Miller, marketing director, Mackinac State Historic ParksSegment 3-Gonzo and Amy talk about America 250 events.Segment 4-More with Phil Porter, War of 1812Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Keep up to date on events throughout the state at WMTA.org.Learn more about Mackinac State Historic Parks at mackinacparks.com.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman travel from Port Huron, to Beulah, to Marshall, to Muskegon.Segment 1-Great Lakes Freighter Captain George HaynesSegment 2-Five Shores Brewery, BeulahSegment 3- Postal Museum in MarshallSegment 4-Pigeon Hill Brewery, MuskegonLearn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Keep up to date on events throughout the state at WMTA.org.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman celebrate Michigan BBQ with experts from around the state.Segments 1 and 2-Steve Seige of Zero Day BBQ Boot Camp, Zero Day Veteran Powered Food Truck and Zero Day BBQ ConsultingSegment 3-Earl Bovia of Bay City Bills and River Rock in Bay City.Segment 3-Tom Driscoll, manager at Norm's Market in Richville (Michigan's Thumb)Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Keep up to date on events throughout the state at WMTA.org.Learn more about Zero Day BBQ Boot Camp at https://www.facebook.com/p/Zero-Day-BBQ-Boot-Camp-61551056700227/

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman visit Mackinac Island to learn more about how Fort Mackinac played a role in American History.Segment 1-Dominick Miller, Mackinac State Historic Parks, Chief of MarketingSegment 2-Maverick Sharpe, historical military interpreterSegment 3-Alice Hill, museum store clerk, starting her 23rd seasonSegment 4-Craig Wilson, chief curator at Mackinac State Historic ParksLearn more about the parks at Mackinacparks.com.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Keep up to date on events throughout the state at WMTA.org.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman prepare for summer by checking in to some of their favorite destinations around the state.Segment 1-White Lake and HollandSegment 2-Calhoun CountySegment 3- Mt. Pleasant, and John Ball Zoo in Grand RapidsSegment 4-Traverse City and LansingLearn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Keep up to date on events throughout the state at WMTA.org.

Behind the MittenEpisode 753Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier travel podcast and radio show since 2015. On this podcast, they talk to:Segment 1: Steph Castelein, managing director of Mackinac Island Tourism, who tells us what is new in 2026.Segment 2: The owners of Big Little Wines in Suttons Bay.Segment 3: The founders and their inspirational story at St. Clair Butterfly Foundation.Segment 4: Organizers of the four annual running races on the Island at runmackinac.com.Follow updates for Behind the Mitten on Facebook and our new Substack for news and updates at amyandgonzo.com.

Behind the MittenEpisode 752"Behind the Mitten" is Michigan's premier travel radio show and podcast, hosted by Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez.Journey along I-75 from Mackinaw City to Wolverine, exploring local gems like the Inn Between Waterfront Restaurant, Vivio's Italian Restaurant, and the historic Michigan Central Depot, with delightful stops for ice cream, bakery treats, and a visit to the Thirsty Sturgeon.Segment 1-The first stop is in Mackinaw City for a little adventure.Segment 2-They stop in Indian River, Michigan, and visit the Inn Between Waterfront Restaurant and Vivio's Italiam Restaurant.Segment 3-The next stop is in Woverine at the old Michigan Central Depot with several businesses, including an ice cream shop and bakery.Segment 4-The final stop us the Thirsty Sturgeon in Wolverine.Follow updates for Behind the Mitten on Facebook and our new Substack for news and updates at amyandgonzo.com.

Behind the Mitten PodcastMay 22, 2026Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier travel radio show and podcast with nearly 800 episodes since launching in 2015. It is co-hosted by Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez.BATTLE CREEK, Mich. - On this special podcast, they explore Calhoun County's signature event - Cereal Fest, a mainstay in the community and known for celebrating the Cereal City's history as the birthplace of the breakfast cereal industry. John and Amy feature Annie Kelley, Communications Director of the Calhoun County Visitors Bureau, who talks about the upcoming (June 13) Cereal Fest.Every June, Battle Creek draws crowds from all around with tons of activities, entertainment, and of course, cereal! Best of all, the cereal is free!Free cereal for all visitors—sit at the world's largest breakfast table and enjoy a nostalgic meal.Live entertainment including music and performances.Animal shows featuring exotic animals (a highlight for kids and animal lovers).Miniature golf and bounce houses for kids, and suitable activities for adults.Food and craft vendors showcasing local flavors and products.In addition to Cereal Fest, Annie talks about other family attractions to enjoy in the area such as Binder Park Zoo and Full Blast Water Park.Other highlights:Cornwall's Turkeyville: A charming venue offering craft booths and delicious food, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.Schuler's Restaurant & Pub: Enjoy hearty Michigan comfort food at this local favorite in nearby Marshall.Station 66 Ice Cream: Located near the zoo, this retro gas station turned cafe serves incredible ice cream—ideal for ending your day on a sweet note.Visit the official website BattleCreekVisitors.org for event details, schedules, and accommodations.

This special edition podcast features an incredible story that led to the creation of a unique non-profit organiztion. In honor of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, we share the inspiriation that is The St. Clair Butterfly Foundaiton.We met with founders Chip and Lisa St. Clair recently, and learned more about this community organization. The Butterfly Foundation is a "neuroscience-based framework that strengthens how systems function under pressure."The work that the foundation undertakes works with structural systems that are already existing and in place, say a police force or a classroom, The work centers on stabilizing these envirionments, in an effort to reduce aggressive behaviors and disciplinary actions. Professionals who have been helped by their outreach are able to respond with clarity in the face of sometimes overwhelming circumstances. Chip shared the story of his traumatic past with us, and the reasons why he and Lisa started the organization. The couple, who met when they were in high school, have been professional writers for their careers, and have been spearheading The Butterfly Foundation for 19 years. Over 40,000 people have been positively influenced by their programs and outreach, both here in Michigan and nationwide. 

Amy Sherman previews this weekend's show with an appearance on the Morning Wake Up on WILS with host Mike Austin.Amy talks about our road trip show recorded while traveling southbound on I-75 from Mackinaw City to Indian River with stops at a cool coffee shop in former train depot and popular restaurant in the Sturgeon River Valley in Wolverine.

Opening week on Mackinac Island!Our friends at the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau invited us to join them on the island as they kicked off the 2026 summer season and welcomed everyone back home to Mackinac. We spent a few days enjoying the island as she reopened for business, and recorded our show at the lovely Bicycle Street Inn.We kick off the show with a new friend from a familar place. Leah Anderson, the senior marketing  manager at Mission Point Resort, joins us. Each season brings new changes, along with all the favorites you can always find at this amazing spot. This year, Mission Point is introducing a brand new pizza oven shipped directly from Italy, and will be opening Aidorandak's Pizza on the resort grounds. Super cool is that you don't have to be a guest here to enjoy, you can stop by on your bike ride or walk and grab a slice. Next, we meet the general manager of the Bicycle Inn, Misty Martinchek. She's been working on the island for a few years now, and shares what she likes about being here. The Bicycle Inn is conveniently located right on Main Street, across from the ferry dock. Misty let us know that their restaurant Winchester's has added a piano bar this season, which is sure to make for some rollicking nights. She also let us in on an island hot-spot, no matter your age, the Carousel Arcade, located just around the corner on Market Street. Located right in the lobby of the Bicycle Inn is one of Mackinac Island's seven fudge shops. A tradition for decades on the island, sweet fudge is one of the best souvenirs you can bring home. We meet with owner James Faulkner, who has been working hard at his shops on the island and in Mackinaw City and TC since 2016. James is a Michigander through and through, having grown up in Onaway. We highly recommend his caramel apples at Kilwin's, take if from our source (Amy!) that they're delicious. Finally, we reconnect with our good friend Brian Bailey. He is celebrating his 37 season on Mackinac, and couldn't wait to get back to work to get started. We discuss what it's like to get the island ready for a new season, what big changes the Pink Pony has undergone this year, including an expansion of the store and new menu iitems, and just how exciting it all is. Every year on Mackinac Island is special, no matter the season. We feel incredibly lucky that we once again got to see her open her arms to all for another year. 

Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier radio show and podcastEpisode 750Our annual baseball show!Segment 1: Gonzo and Amy talk Detroit Tigers baseball and a new season at Comerica Park.Segment 2: Matt DeVries, Director of Marketing and Entertainment and storytelling for the Great Lakes Loons in Midland, tells us what make this Midwest League team a great destination for foodies and families.Segment 3: Jesse Goldberg-Strassler, Broadcaster and Media Relations guru for the Lansing Lugnuts, is a longtime favorite of Behind the Mitten, and this weekend he talks about what makes Jackson Field such a great summer experience.Segment 4: Steve McCarthy, President of West Michigan Whitecaps, closes the show with what's new in minor league baseball, and what fans of the High-A affiliate for the Tigers can expect this summer at LMCU Ballpark.

Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier travel radio show and podcastEpisode 748Part II of our time at the Pure Michigan Governor's Conference on Tourism includes interview with reps from Port Huron, Detroit and Ann Abor. Plus, we check with our resident Ski Bunny. What does he do in the summer?Segment 1: Michael Hensley, who heads up tourism on Michigan’s Thumbcoast, says the best way to describe a summer in Port Huron would be Arts, Boats and Beaches. Learn more at bluewater.org.Segment 2: Ken Hayward of Visit Detroit checks in on what makes the Motor City a perfect destination for sports fans. Learn more at visitdetroit.com. Segment 3: -Sarah Miller, President CEO of Destination Ann Arbor, joins us with Jason Nelson of Vanguard Hotel in Ann Arbor to talk about the excitement of an NCAA men's basketball championship and what makes A2 a great place to escape to. Learn more at annarbor.org. Segment 4: Our Behind the Mitten Ski Bunny, Nick Nerbonne of Pure Michigan, always impresses with his knowledge of the Great Lakes State. Learn more at michigan.org.

Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier travel radio show and podcastEpisode 749Spring time in Michigan brings out all kinds of fun festivals and excitement for another Pure Michigan summer. Check out this episode, which aired April 25-26, 2026.Segment 1: We open the show with Adam Vibber, president of the Alma Highland Festival (May 22-24), who talks about what people can expect, including a Highland dance competition, whiskey tasting, an opening parade and those famous heavyweight games of strength. Learn more at almahighlandfestival.com.Segment 2: We are joined by Mary Ann Hayes, who with her husband Steve is co-president of the 85th Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival. The festival took place April 24-26, but if you missed it this year, Mary Ann tells us all the reasons why you want to add it to your list next year. Learn more at syrupfest.org.Segment 3: Amy and Gonzo talk to Barry Owens and Brian Smith of Treetops Resort in Gaylord about the 8th annual Grill on the Hill. They learn how this event has become a popular event on the BBQ competition circuit, and includes live music, a petting zoo for kids and beer and wine festival. Grill on the Hill is May 2. For VIP tickets and more details, go to treetops.com.Segment 4: Amy and Gonzo recap other events throughout Michigan.Follow all of BTM's travels on their Substack page, which you can access at amyandgonzo.com.