In this episode, Chuck and Brenda sit down with Alex Resnick , the Executive Director of the Flagstar Strand Theatre in Pontiac, Michigan. Alex shares the fascinating history of this century-old landmark—from its Vaudeville roots to its $20 million restoration. You’ll hear how the theater is acting as an economic engine for downtown Pontiac, the addition of a new art gallery, and why you might see the Executive Director mopping floors one minute and booking Grammy-nominated artists the next. Key...
Feb 06, 2026•27 min•Season 1Ep. 26
Mark Wilfong, owner of The Hidden King, joins Chuck and Brenda to share how a Main Street spot in a 160-year-old building evolved into one of Ann Arbor’s coziest cocktail bars. Mark talks about pivoting from cafe plans to a cocktail-focused menu, the hidden mural that inspired the name, and why the fairy doors might be the most Ann Arbor detail of all. You’ll also hear how local collaborations shaped the drinks, plus a few unexpected history stories that prove Ann Arbor really does punch above i...
Jan 23, 2026•54 min•Season 1Ep. 25
We met Jeff Wood and Ryan Malott at GIG–The Art of Michigan Music, and instantly wanted to hear their story. In this episode, the hosts of The Mitten Music Podcast share how their show got started, what they have learned after 100-plus episodes, why video has become a game-changer for reaching new listeners, and what they are building next with a more on-the-road format that puts Michigan venues, festivals, and artists in the spotlight. Listen to their podcast’s episode featuring the artists fro...
Jan 09, 2026•55 min•Season 1Ep. 24
Ken Konarzewski Jr. joins Chuck and Brenda for a relaxed, post-Turkey Day conversation that starts with comfort food and quickly turns to two things Ken knows well: Michigan craft beer and bowling. Ken looks back on launching the Better On Draft Podcast in 2015 out of Podcast Detroit in Ferndale, on how the show grew into hundreds of episodes, and on what it was like to be part of the early days of podcasting in the Michigan beer scene. He also shares thoughtful advice for new podcasters. The co...
Dec 26, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 23
This week, we are talking with Detroit street and event photographer Scott Millington about finding his voice behind the camera, documenting real life in Detroit, and why he started his ongoing Cameras and Coffee project. From protests and sports to concerts, fire hydrants, and spilled cereal in the grocery store, Scott shares how he looks for small moments that tell big stories. In this conversation, we get into * How the pandemic, Black Lives Matter protests, and everyday walks through Detroit...
Dec 12, 2025•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 22
In this episode, we visit with Lorri Smith and Patty Barton from Peace Pie in Marquette. Lorri shares Peace Pie’s humble beginnings, from apartment baking to the farmers’ market. Lorri and Patty share details about the drunken pasty pie made with Kognisjon Bryggeri’s Midnight Society beer, plans for a pierogi-and-dumpling truck, and a values-driven approach to team and community. Peace Pie sources locally when possible, composts with Partridge Creek Compost , and keeps creativity, service, and f...
Nov 28, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 21
In this episode, we talk with Marissa Jardine , clinic manager at the Bird Center of Michigan , about how their team rescues, rehabilitates, and releases thousands of injured and orphaned birds each year. We cover: * The most common reasons birds need help (window strikes, cat attacks, orphaning) * What to actually do if you find a baby bird * How the center trains interns and volunteers * The emotional side of wildlife rehab * A powerful rescue story involving a mallard shot with a pellet gun *...
Nov 14, 2025•54 min•Season 1Ep. 20
What happens when your neighbor, who works for the local sheriff, wants to buy your homebrew and you realize bootlegging might not be your best business model? You start a brewery — with a little grit, a lot of heart, and unwavering support from your community. In this episode, we sit down with Zack and Jessie Bigelow, the powerhouse duo behind Ramshackle Brewing in Jonesville, Michigan. They share how their DIY beer beginnings (think Dremel-cut keg and Igloo cooler mash tun) evolved into a smal...
Oct 31, 2025•59 min•Season 1Ep. 19
In this episode of the Life In Michigan podcast, we sit down with Maria Skrzynski , Content Strategist at Destination Ann Arbor , to explore her journey into travel storytelling, her love for Ypsilanti , and the creative heart of Michigan. Maria shares how a front-desk role at the Ypsilanti Visitor Center sparked a passion that eventually led her to shape regional storytelling through Ypsi Real and Destination Ann Arbor . We talk about building authentic content that reflects local communities, ...
Oct 17, 2025•56 min•Season 1Ep. 18
In this episode of the Life In Michigan Podcast, we’re joined by Barry LaRue—a lifelong Ypsilanti resident, community historian, and retired University of Michigan Performance Hall Operations Manager. Barry’s deep love for history, preservation, and the arts has shaped the fabric of Ypsilanti in ways most people don’t even realize. We met up with Barry earlier this past July while exploring Starkweather Chapel at Highland Cemetery . His passion for sharing local history inspired our recap articl...
Oct 03, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 17
In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Hudson-Prenkert, founder of the Sounds of the Zoo music festival in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Jennifer shares her inspiring journey from a career in dance and theater to creating a one-of-a-kind, mission-based music festival that celebrates diversity, sustainability, and community. “I’m creating change through music.” That’s not just a tagline—it’s the heart of Sounds of the Zoo , a weeklong, free music festival that features over 50 bands across eight venues in...
Sep 19, 2025•57 min•Season 1Ep. 16
In this episode, we hang out with Janelle Buttery—community builder, fiber artist, bread baker, and the operations manager at Peace Pie Company in Marquette, Michigan. We dive into her journey from East Detroit to the Upper Peninsula, her work with small businesses, and her passion for creating welcoming spaces that connect people through food, creativity, and collaboration. What We Talked About * Growing up in East Detroit and finding home in the U.P. * The smoky skies of Marquette (thanks, Man...
Sep 05, 2025•59 min•Season 1Ep. 15
In this enchanting episode of the Life In Michigan podcast, we’re joined by Mary Stewart Adams, star lore historian and passionate advocate for dark skies. Mary shares her incredible journey from studying English literature to becoming a cultural storyteller of the night sky—and how a serendipitous encounter on an airport tarmac led to the founding of Michigan’s first International Dark Sky Park. What You’ll Hear About in This Episode: * Mary’s path to becoming a “star lore historian” and why sh...
Aug 22, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 14
In this episode, we sit down with Erin and Ryan Cottongim , the passionate husband-and-wife team behind Witch’s Hat Brewing Company . From humble beginnings with a $3 Mr. Beer kit, they’ve built one of Michigan’s most beloved breweries. We dig into: * Witch’s Hat's origin story of finding $3 Mr. Beer kit at a garage sale to opening their doors the day after Christmas in 2011. * How the Fury for a Feast event got its start with a summer stout and grew into a powerful food drive and community cele...
Aug 08, 2025•55 min•Season 1Ep. 13
In this inspiring and laughter-filled episode, we’re joined by Tahra Gribbin and Paul Stark from Monster Box Theatre , a dynamic live performance company now based in downtown Jackson, Michigan. After more than a decade of professional theater in Waterford, Michigan, Monster Box has found new life—and a new home—in Jackson’s growing arts district. We explored the roots of Monster Box, their mission to make the arts accessible for all, and how they’re creating space for people of all backgrounds ...
Jul 25, 2025•53 min•Season 1Ep. 12
In this heartfelt and wildly entertaining episode, we sit down with Michigan music legend Johnny Williams —educator, community builder, and founder of The Speakeasy —along with the brilliant singer-songwriter Judy Banker . Johnny shares stories that span decades: from his roots in Adrian, Michigan, to dodging the draft in Canada, landing unexpectedly in Heidelberg, Germany, and eventually returning to Ann Arbor to become a pillar of the music community. We journey through the founding of The Spe...
Jul 11, 2025•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 11
In this episode of Life In Michigan , we sit down with Ed McKenna, author of The Grand Secret , a thrilling murder mystery set against the backdrop of Michigan’s most iconic locations — including the legendary Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Ed shares the inspiration behind his story, his long journey to publishing, and why he feels Michigan itself is one of the stars of his novel. “I always kind of wanted to write about murder. However, I never murdered anybody, just for the record,” Ed jokes a...
Jun 27, 2025•50 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode, we’re joined by Evan Westervelt, Sales and Marketing Manager at Midland Brewing Company. From a PBR-fueled epiphany at the Sawmill Saloon to homebrewing misadventures in Colorado, Evan shares how he found his way into Michigan’s craft beer scene—and why Midland Brewing has become a hub for innovation, collaboration, and community connection. We talk about: * The legacy and rebirth of Midland Brewing, including its roots in the 1930s and its transformation into a full-on beer and...
Jun 13, 2025•58 min•Season 1Ep. 9
This week, we chat with Terris Ahrens , Executive Director of the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce and frontman of the alt-rock band Sometimes Pretty . Terris shares what it’s like growing up in Michigan—hanging out on the River Raisin, exploring forgotten cement ruins, and camping in hidden corners of the state. We talk about his journey from video store manager to chamber leader, why he loves Chelsea’s creative energy, and how Sounds & Sights supports both tribute bands and original music....
May 30, 2025•57 min•Season 1Ep. 8
In this episode of Life In Michigan, we sit down with Dianna Higgs Stampfler, author of Kalamazoo County Characters , to explore the curious and sometimes downright bizarre history of Kalamazoo County. Dianna shares her upbringing in Kalamazoo—from back-to-school shopping at the Kalamazoo mall to college days and beyond—and how it inspired her to chronicle the lives of 50 remarkable people who shaped the county’s past. We talk about her father’s legacy as a radio legend (and how he helped the Ea...
May 16, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Join us for a fun conversation with Kevin McKinney, Sales and Distribution Manager at Barrel + Beam. Kevin shares his journey from his time in the military and how his love for travel and beer eventually led him to the Upper Peninsula. We talk about his experiences in the Michigan craft beer scene, the unique farmhouse ales of Barrel + Beam, and the joys (and challenges) of road life as a beer rep. Plus, Kevin gives us some top recommendations for food, outdoor adventures, and must-visit breweri...
May 02, 2025•56 min•Season 1Ep. 6
Today, I had a chat with a friend from across the pond, Nuno Babo who writes the Needle in a Substack . This probably fits more under our Fans With Bands podcast as we spent a good hour and a half just chatting about music - from metal to progressive rock and lots of stuff in between. This was a first for us checking out the Substack Live feature. It was great to connect beyond the usual notes and comments. Get full access to Life In Michigan at lifeinmichigan.substack.com/subscribe...
Apr 29, 2025•1 hr 33 min
In this episode, we tap into Michigan’s vibrant cider culture with Paula Englin, Executive Director of the Michigan Cider Association. From Cider Week GR to GLINTCAP and the Michigan Apple Festival, Paula gives us the inside scoop on the events, people, and apples driving the Great Cider State. We talk about cider tourism, cider education (hello, Pommelier certification!), and what makes Michigan apples so perfect for the pour. Upcoming Michigan Cider Events * Cider Week Grand Rapids (May) * Gli...
Apr 18, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 5
In this episode, we catch up with two Michigan legends of the vinyl scene — Geoff Walker and Jon Teichman — co-founders of Geoff & Jon’s Record Show . Broadcasting from Marquette, Geoff and Jon share how a single record event at Ore Dock Brewing 12 years ago sparked a beloved multi-day music marketplace that now draws collectors from all over the Midwest. We talk about the origin of the show, their enduring friendship of nearly five decades, and how community is the heart of everything they ...
Apr 04, 2025•48 min•Season 1Ep. 4
In this episode of Life in Michigan, we sat down with Breeda Miller – storyteller, author, performer, and, as she calls herself, “a recovering caregiver.” Breeda opens up about her deeply personal experience of caring for her mother — a journey that ultimately inspired her one-woman play and the moving memoir Mrs. Kelly’s Journey Home . During our conversation, she shared humorous and heartfelt tales. Anyone who has loved someone with dementia can relate when Breeda said, “Caring for a person wi...
Mar 21, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 3
Cheers, and Happy Sunday, friends! The sun is hanging out a little bit more each day. Pretty soon, the spring peepers will be…well…peeping. Today, I’m going to share some recent experiences with inspiring people. Then I’ll drag you through a bunch of events happening over the next two weeks, share some fabulous substack restacks, a look at a book, a spin on the turntable, and your moment of zen! Hanging Out with Inspiring People You are probably aware that inspiring people are everywhere. Especi...
Mar 16, 2025•32 min
In this episode of Life in Michigan , we sit down with Tony DeRosa , owner of Hear.Say Brewing + Theater in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to explore how he’s blending the art of brewing with live performance. Tony shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey to living in Michigan, his career transition from working at Google to focusing on the local community, and how he got into brewing. We discuss the unique aspects of Hear.Say Brewing + Theatre , including their small-scale brewing process, dedica...
Mar 07, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Episode Summary: In our very first episode, we dive into the charm and adventures of Grand Marais, Michigan, with Robin and Bill Scully, who share their journey from below the bridge to life in the North Woods. Our conversation covers topics from the local dog sled race UP200, the life-changing decision to retire in the Upper Peninsula (UP), to the joy and challenges of managing a vacation rental in a remote town. You will learn about the area's up and coming music scene, local wildlife, and uni...
Feb 21, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Season 1Ep. 1
In this episode, we are talking with you as we kick off our new adventure in podcasting 🙂 As mentioned in this introductory episode, we want to explore the stories of the people behind the scenes. Whether they are running local businesses, ambassadors for Michigan arts, champions of Michigan destinations, or long-time Michiganders enjoying their lives in this state, we want to share their stories. Our goal is to dig a bit deeper than the typical tourism pieces and get to know more about the Mic...
Feb 04, 2025•3 min
