Episodios

  • Navigating Michigan's Great Lakes: A Captain's Perspective

    Navigating Michigan's Great Lakes: A Captain's Perspective
    Oct 5 2025
    Behind the Mitten Bonus Podcast
    BTM is Michigan's premier radio show and podcast, celebrating 10 years on the air, co-hosted by Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez.
    This segment was recorded July 31, 2025.

    Description:
    In this special episode of Behind the Mitten, we take you on a unique journey along the St. Clair River. Join us as Captain George Haynes from the Lakes Pilots Association provides an insightful play-by-play commentary on navigating these challenging waters. Discover the intricacies of a pilot's role in guiding unfamiliar captains safely to Lake Huron, and experience the thrill of a freighter's passage through this vital waterway. Tune in for an engaging blend of maritime expertise and real-time adventure!

    Learn more about the Lakes Pilots Association at lakespilots.com.

    Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.
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    20 m
  • Beautiful colors this fall at Crystal Mountain Resort, plus indoor golf this winter (Oct. 5, 2025)

    Beautiful colors this fall at Crystal Mountain Resort, plus indoor golf this winter (Oct. 5, 2025)
    Oct 5 2025
    In this episode of "Behind the Mitten," host John Gonzalez sits down with Brittney Primeau from Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville, Michigan, to explore the exciting activities awaiting visitors this fall. From scenic hikes to vibrant festivals, discover the best ways to enjoy the season at this stunning resort. Plus, get an exclusive scoop just for our listeners: Crystal Mountain is introducing indoor golf this winter for the first time!

    Tune in for all the details and start planning your perfect autumn getaway.

    Learn more at crystalmountain.com.

    Follow the latest adventures of Behind the Mitten by following their Facebook Page.
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    14 m
  • Amy Sherman's new theme song, plus Michigan's first 'Oasis' at Gun Lake Casino (WILS interview)

    Amy Sherman's new theme song, plus Michigan's first 'Oasis' at Gun Lake Casino (WILS interview)
    Sep 25 2025
    Amy Sherman guests on the Mike Austin Show on WILS-AM (1320) in Lansing where she talks about the new "Oasis" concept bar and pool at Gun Lake Casino Resort in Wayland. Mike Austin also debuts a new Amy Sherman theme song.

    Amy Sherman is co-host of Behind the Mitten, which this weekend will feature Gun Lake Casino, Snowbelt Brewery in Gaylord and the popular progressive dinners at Treetops Resort.

    Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier travel radio show and podcast. It airs on the weekends on 22 radio stations across the state. Learn more at amyandgonzo.com.
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    10 m
  • Mecosta County Podcast (Sept. 13-14, 2025)

    Mecosta County Podcast (Sept. 13-14, 2025)
    Sep 22 2025
    This week takes us to Mecosta County, where you can find stunning rolling hills perfect for senic drives, fresh water lakes to fish on, and one exciting university where you can study both gaming and hospitality. So just where the heck is Mecosta County? Tune in to find out.

    You probably do know where Mecosta is, but not as a county. It's the home seat to Big Rapids, and to Ferris State University. We talk about both on this episode of Behind the Mitten, kicking off the show with the vivacious Dr. Bill Pink, President of Ferris State University. We always enjoy hearing what is new on campus, and we'll just say that Ferris does not disappoint. From exciting new buildings, including a unique gaming arena, to innovative majors that you won't find anywhere else, Ferris stands poised to create a great new generation of Michiganders. And did we mention that the Ferris State Bulldog's were the National Football D2 Champs last year? We didn't? Don't worry, Dr. Pink will.

    Next, we head to local icon Schuberg's restaurant for both burgers and great conversation. We meet Josh Pyles, local man about everything, who shares upcoming events from both Big Rapids Parks and Recreation and the downtown business association, because he works with both. He's really looking forward to October 25 for Fall Fest a family friendly event featuring inflatables, trunk-or-treating and more.

    Amanda Starkey and Jenifer Faris Jones from the Mecosta County Visitors Bureua stop by to talk fall with y'all. Turns out that Mecosta County is the perfect spot for gorgeous fall drives, whether you are in a car or on a motorcycle, which these two ladies are fans of and own and ride themselves. They share some of their favorite roads to travel, as well as why this community has had a hold on their hearts their wholes lives.

    Finally, we have two absolute Ferris firecrackers on, Amy Dorey, associate professor in Hospitality Management and Dr. Karyn Kio, also an associate professor in hospitality. We discuss why this major is so important to Michigan tourism, some of the innovative ways they engage their students, as well as their top spots to visit in Mecosta County. The Inn at Rustic Gate employs many Bulldogs in their hospitality journey, they both really like The Peaks at Canadian Lakes, and they give a super shoutout to the Big Rapids Culver's, where students go to learn systems that work. Thank you ladies for preparing our next generation of workers, they are in excellent hands.

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    45 m
  • Mt. Pleasant Podcast (Sept. 6-7, 2025)

    Mt. Pleasant Podcast (Sept. 6-7, 2025)
    Sep 18 2025
    This week we FIRE UP and head to Mt. Pleasant and Central Michigan University for fun things to do this fall in this vibrant college town located smack dab in the middle of Michigan. This is always a type of homecoming for host John Gonzalez, as he graduated from CMU, and is a memeber of their Journalism Hall of Fame. You'll hear all about it, including a few trips down memory lane, on this special show.

    Our friend Chris Rowley is the Executive Director of the Mt. Pleasant Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, and an expert on all things local for MP. Along with Jordan Ensing, Marketing Coordinator for the Bureau, she shares what makes this community special as well as fall activities. Insider tip: there is one last summer concert at Soaring Eagle Casino, Tim McGraw on September 26.

    Next, Gonzo got to meet and interview the brand new football coach for CMU, Coach Matt Drinkall, who joins us in Michigan direct from his last assignment as coach for the Army Black Knights. He is CMU's 30th head coach. He shares his insights for this season, as well as some of the very cool things this team is doing to reflect and honor the Native American heritage that is such a part of the Mt. Pleasant community, and this year will be reflected on the Chippewa's football uniforms. Coach also gives a shout-out to the Chip's of 1974, who were National Champs.

    Some people were clearly designed for thier careers, Gonzo is one, Marcie Otteman, Deputy Chief of Alumni and Constituent Engagement is another. This enthusiastic supporter, and CMU alumni 1987, shares all we can look forward to for CMU Homecoming 2025. There might also be reflecting on the good ole days at CMU, and the happy recognition that things are just getting better and better for the university.

    We recorded our show at a place that any CMU alumni knows well, O'Kelly's Sports Bar.
    We get to interview John Hunter, who's family has owned multiple establishments around Mt. Pleasant for decades. O'Kelly's, which is connected to sister business, and party palace, The Wayside, has been around for fifty years, and features all the college fun you could ever imagine. John shares why MP has been their community, and what makes working with CMU and students so great. Gonzo may or may not enjoy a very special, and very blue, drink from O'Kelly's during this segment.

    We just love these college town shows, especially in the fall, when the energy of fresh students on campus makes everyting incredible. A visit to Mt. Pleasant is perfect for this time of year.
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    45 m
  • Explore Gaylord, where you can find massive elk, yooperlites, a Snowbelt and more.

    Explore Gaylord, where you can find massive elk, yooperlites, a Snowbelt and more.
    Sep 5 2025
    This episode of Behind the Mitten finds us back in our second "home" of Gaylord Michigan, along with our co-host, and director of the Gaylord Tourism Bureau, Paul Beachnau. A regular on the show, and one of our best buddies, Paul takes around Gaylord, to spots both brand new, and old favorites. Come along as we go all outdoors, and a little bit inside, in Gaylord Michigan.Did you know that you can see elk literally right downtown Gaylord? It's a true story, and they've just built an awesome new viewing platform that you can get incredible vistas of these majestic animals that is located just minutes from I-75. Paul takes us on a tour, and record on-site. The elk herd in Gaylord is about 60 strong....and these animals, which can weigh upwards of 800 pounds and stand six feet tall, are particulary engaging.....or alarming....in the fall, when the bugling and rutting reaches a peak. Perfect time to stop by, or to do a deeper dive viewing the elk at the nearby Pigeon River State Forest. Where to find all the amazing elk in Gaylord Michigan, and how to view them best.Next, we hit the local disco where we find sparkling gems to dance the night away to. OK, that might be a stretch, but what we encountered was equally awesome...and sparkly. We catch up with regular Mark Copeland from Jay's Sporting Goods who always knows the coolest equipment, the best seasonal wear, and just what Michiganders need each season. We learn about the fascinating Yooperlites, those crazy glo-in-the-dark rocks that are causing obsessions around the state. Jay's has some super cool gear to help you find them, plus tons more for all your fall adventures. Next, another BTM regular, and great friend, Jordan Awrey comes back to chat about all things Snowbelt Brewing, where he is officially their marketing manager, and unofficially the "mayor" of Gaylord. Please don't be offended actual Mayor Todd, it's just that Jordan is such a great cheerleader of Gaylord, and turns that passion into action, in the form of their summer concert series and so much more. We always love to hear what Jordan has planned next, because it's honestly always amazing.Finally, a visit to Gaylord would NOT be complete without a visit to Michigan's Most Spectacular Resort, Treetops. We love using Treetops as a base for exploring Northern Michigan, we love joining friends at the resort for pizza in the pub, or for skiing or EXTREME tubing during the season.The fall, they are offering a series of Fall Progressive Dinners at Treetops that we would be beyond happy to attend. Book your tickets now, and you will be delighted not just by the seasonal menu, but also by the incredible autumnal views that you'll get to take in via your very own golf cart tour as you cruise the award-winning courses at Treetops while enjoying a cocktail and snacks. No need to swing your club this time, just drive along with a guide who will give you the deets on this incredible spot. Then, converge at the top of the hill at Legends restaurant for a mulit-course meal. Barry Ownes, GM of Treetops gives us all the tips on bookjng this experience. https://www.facebook.com/behindthemittenhttps://www.instagram.com/behindthemitten_/https://twitter.com/BehindTheMitten#BTM #amyandgonzo #BehindtheMitten And you can find all sorts of things on our website, https://www.amyandgonzo.com/
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    45 m
  • Historic Muskegon welcomes you with festivals, food, incredible art and lots of fun (Aug. 30-31, 2025)

    Historic Muskegon welcomes you with festivals, food, incredible art and lots of fun (Aug. 30-31, 2025)
    Sep 5 2025
    It's always a pleasure to get to go back to Muskegon, we just love this city located on the shores of Lake Michigan, and the very cool things that are happening here. On this episode of Behind the Mitten we'll introduce you to Skee town, and take you to cool places both old and new, hear all about one of the best Irish music festivals in the land, learn about a major art expansion, and eat some really good pizza. We kick off with the effusive Amber Mae Petersen, Marketing and Operations Manager for Visit Muskegon and her co-hort Lashelle Mikesell, Digital Marketing Coordinator. They give us a great overview of downtown, and the many nice changes that have been happening here, from businesses moving locations, to new ones opening up. One thing we mention is the beautiful Frauenthal Center, where they host the magical Singing Christmas Tree every year, plan ahead and get those tickets early.One of the largest, and best, Irish musical festivals in the country has happened for the last 25 years in Muskegon. The Michigan Irish Music Festival is happening September 11 through the 14th, and we have Morgan Witmer, the volunteer marketing coordinator for the festival on to tell us all about it. We were excited to learn that new this year there will be a Ceili (KAY-lee), which is a special Irish square dance that anyone can participate in. Organizers are pumped that on Saturday night, Skerryvore, a band from Scotland is coming for the first time. I'm excited to check out the Celtic Canines exhibit on Sunday, where I can meet (and pet!) all the breeds of traditional Irish dogs. There is also a cool Irish Instrument petting zoo on Sunday that sounds incredibly interesting. There are all sorts of Irish culture, food and drink classes as well, please be sure to register ahead of time. We have to give a shout-out to all everyone who gives thier time to this amazing event, it is entirely volunteer run.We've learned over the years that sometimes everyting just comes together, whether you planned it or not, and our time in Muskegon proved this once again. While recording at the new CORE Plaza, we realized that our friends from the Muskegon Museum of Art were also in the house. So, we invited Kirk Hallman, the Executive Director, and Cathy Mott, Assistant Director to join us and give us an update on their major expansion. We had them on last year, so it was nice to hear that it has been an incredible journey, and that all of Michigan is lucky to have this resource.The CORE Plaza is a lovely new spot for Muskegon, and has the feel of a place you might find in a much larger city. Co-owner Troy Wasserman joins us to share how this historic building remodel came to be, shares the businesses that call CORE home, including the very fun Liquid Assests Bar that runs all down one side, and talks about his family's long history in Muskegon. Stop by for lunch, or a meeting, or happy hour, or a hair cut.....CORE Plaza is a hot spot of activity, much like Muskegon.www.facebook.com/behindthemittenhttpswww.instagram.com/behindthemitten_twitter.com/BehindTheMitten#BTM #amyandgonzo #BehindtheMitten And you can find all sorts of things on our website, https://www.amyandgonzo.com/
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    45 m
  • A Culinary Color Tour: Autumn Delights at Treetops Resort in Gaylord

    A Culinary Color Tour: Autumn Delights at Treetops Resort in Gaylord
    Sep 4 2025
    Join host Amy Sherman on this episode of "Behind the Mitten" as she sits down with Brian Smith, the Food and Beverage Director at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, to explore an extraordinary culinary experience that celebrates Michigan's vibrant autumn season.

    Discover the magic behind the Fall Color Tour and Progressive Dinner, a unique event that pairs the breathtaking fall foliage of Northern Michigan with exquisite cuisine and local beverages.

    Brian Smith shares insights into the creative process behind the event, where guests embark on a leisurely golf cart journey across the Jones Masterpiece Golf Course. Along the way, they savor Michigan-made beer and wine, accompanied by fall-themed hors d'oeuvres, all while capturing the stunning views of the resort's colorful landscape.

    Dinners are: Friday, October 3rd and Saturday, October 4th and Friday, October 10th.

    The event is just $154 per person. The price includes FIVE drink tastingsand all taxes and fees.

    Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique getaway, this episode will inspire you to experience the autumnal beauty and culinary delights at Treetops Resort.

    Tune in to discover how Treetops Resort is redefining the fall season with this sensory sensation, and get ready to plan your visit to Michigan's most spectacular resort.

    Seating is limited. To reserve a Treetops Resort Getaway anytime of year visit www.treetops.com or call 888-TREETOPS.
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    10 m