Life In Michigan Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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Life In Michigan Podcast

Life in Michigan: The People Behind the Places

Society & Culture

Frequency: 1 episode/13d. Total Eps: 44

Michigan is more than a place—it’s a way of life. Through candid conversations with the people who call it home, we uncover the passion, creativity, and resilience that make the Great Lakes State special. Subscribe and join us for inspiring stories from across Michigan!

lifeinmichigan.substack.com

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🇫🇷 France - placesAndTravel
30/08/2026
#35

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https://lifeinmichigan.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38
44 shares
https://www.gigartmich.org/
5 shares
https://superduperdrinks.com/
3 shares

https://www.facebook.com/DancingstarProductions
2 shares
https://www.facebook.com/LifeInMichigan
1 share
https://www.facebook.com/louispizza
1 share

https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkinga2
4 shares
https://www.instagram.com/sapmillington
2 shares
https://www.instagram.com/lifeinmich
2 shares

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RSS feed quality

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Score global : 68%

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Crafting Community, Midwest IPAs, and "Day with Jay" Adventures with Brewer Jay Green!

Season 2 · Episode 14

Friday, August 21, 2026 • Duration 52:03

Get ready, Michigan craft beer fans! In this episode of the Life In Michigan podcast, we sat down with one of our favorite beer friends, Perrin Brewing’s resident “Beer Ninja,” Jay Green.

From cleaning out mash tuns at Tri-City Brewing nearly 18 years ago to scaling up batches in Perrin Brewing Company’s Comstock Park facility, Jay gives us an insider look at Michigan’s craft scene.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

* The Story Behind the “Beer Ninja”: How a joke job title at Tri-City turned into a lifelong moniker for whipping out tap wrenches and jumping in wherever help is needed.

* 100% Pure Michigan Brews: Jay breaks down the creation of Perrin’s new Great Lakes Grown IPA—a “Midwest Cowboy IPA” recipe originally crafted as a tribute brew for Cowboy Doug, made with local grains from Great Lakes Malting Company in Traverse City and fresh hops from Top Hops Farm in Goodrich.

* Local Fruit: Why living right near the Fruit Ridge north of Grand Rapids gives local brewers unmatched access to fresh apple cider and agricultural abundance.

* Reliving the “Day with Jay” Road Trips:

* Enjoying ciders and cheese plates at Pux Cider Taproom in Grand Rapids.

* The surprise “Who Is Jay Green?” welcome sign set up by Mark at The Hidden King in Ann Arbor.

* 906 Day with Jay, plus beers Blackrocks Brewery and Ore Dock Brewing Company.

* Supporting Diversity in Brewing: The legacy of Fermenta collaboration days and how organizations like the Pink Boots Society continue to empower women and non-binary professionals in craft beverages.

Events to Mark on Your Calendar:

* Perrin’s huge annual Backyard Bash in Comstock Park on Sept 12th!

* The Pro-Am competitions hosted by the Beer City Brewers Guild.

* Why the Michigan Brewers Guild UP Beer Festival in Marquette remains Jay’s absolute favorite festival of the year.

Shoutouts to New Spots: Jay gives a quick nod to the newly opened taproom for Our Brewing Company in Grand Rapids!

“As I always say, my favorite beer is the one shared with friends.”

— Jay Green

Catch up on our previous Day with Jay adventures (in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, Marquette), and let us know in the comments: Where should our next “Day with Jay” beer crawl head?

Get full access to Life In Michigan at lifeinmichigan.substack.com/subscribe

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Live with Chuck Marshall

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 • Duration 03:47

Get full access to Life In Michigan at lifeinmichigan.substack.com/subscribe

Hard Edges, Soft Landings: Suicide Prevention and Postvention with Six Feet Over

Season 2 · Episode 5

Friday, April 17, 2026 • Duration 56:01

In this episode, Chuck and Brenda sit down with Kate Hardy (Founder/Executive Director) and Laura Lukofsky (Administrative Coordinator) of Six Feet Over. After a chance meeting at the Great Beer State Conference, we learn how this Michigan-based nonprofit is changing suicide prevention and postvention by meeting people where they are—whether that’s a punk rock show, a local brewery, or a tattoo shop.

Content warning: This episode contains honest, direct discussions about suicide, loss, and mental health.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

* The “Suck It! Suicide” (SIS) Vibe: Why Kate moved away from clinical, “social worker” language to create a straightforward, “real-talk” outreach program that connects with musicians, artists, and hospitality workers.

* Postvention & The “Lemon Aid” Program: The critical need for emotional and financial support for survivors of suicide loss. Kate and Laura explain the “after-death” costs that families are often unprepared for and how Six Feet Over has worked to fill those gaps.

* Funding the Mission: A candid look at the current challenges facing nonprofits in Michigan and how the community can help keep the “Lemon Aid” program active.

* DIY Ethos: How the punk and metal scenes’ “take care of your own” mentality drives their daily work.

About Six Feet Over

Six Feet Over is a 501©(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing financial and emotional support to those impacted by suicide and loss in Michigan. Through their outreach program, Suck It! Suicide, they provide a “hard edge with a soft landing” for those who don’t fit the mainstream mold of traditional mental health services.

* Website: www.sixftover.org

* @sixftover / @suckitsuicide

Get full access to Life In Michigan at

Connecting People and Birds with Kathleen Mennillo from the Michigan Audubon

Season 2 · Episode 4

Friday, April 3, 2026 • Duration 44:20

In this episode, Chuck and Brenda sit down with Kathleen Mennillo, MBA, the CEO of Michigan Audubon. Kathleen shares her path from a nature-loving childhood in Northville to leading the state’s oldest conservation organization.

She shares why birds are the “litmus test” for Michigan’s environmental health, the launch of the Bird City Michigan initiative, and how a business-minded approach is helping conservation thrive in the 21st century. Whether you happen to be a seasoned birder with a “life list” or a backyard observer, this episode has tips on how to protect our feathered neighbors.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

* The “MBA of Conservation”: How Kathleen uses her business background to navigate the challenges of running a statewide nonprofit and executing a multi-year strategic plan.

* Bird City Michigan: The story behind this revolutionary program (supported by Ford Motor Company) that helps communities boost eco-tourism through bird conservation.

* The Economic Power of Birding: Why birding is a $107 billion industry and how Michigan communities can tap into that market.

* Conservation Success Stories: The recovery of the Kirtland’s Warbler and why Michigan is a global destination for seeing this “once-endangered” bird.

* Backyard Action: Simple, zero-cost things you can do today—like “lights out” and window film—to save bird lives.

* The Mystery of the Chimney Swift: Why these birds nest “communally” but only allow one couple to have a nest, and how Michigan Audubon is using recording technology to learn their secrets.

Michigan Birding Experiences Mentioned:

* Kirtland’s Warbler Tours (May 23 – June 30): Held in collaboration with Hartwick Pines State Park. Learn more here.

* Cerulean Warbler Tours: A chance to see the elusive, sky-blue “neck-breaker” warbler in its natural habitat..

Get full access to Life In Michigan at

From Beer to Coffee Beans: Christopher Lasher’s Detroit Roastery Journey

Season 2 · Episode 3

Friday, March 20, 2026 • Duration 59:03

This isn’t just a story about coffee; it’s a demonstration of Michigan Ingenuity. From Christopher Lasher’s early days driving beer-delivery trucks to his time at Michigan craft beer legends like Dark Horse and Griffin Claw, his journey is an example of the hard work and creativity that define our state. We talk about how a “COVID coffee epiphany” led to the birth of Super Duper Drinks, his unique approach to cold brewing, and the exciting opening of his new dedicated roasting space on Chene Street in Detroit.

Whether you’re a craft beer fan curious about how your favorite beer gets its coffee kick, a DIY-er who loves a story about homegrown ingenuity, or someone tired of drinking terrible hotel coffee, this episode is packed with the kind of grit and inventiveness that makes Michigan special.

What’s In It For You?

* Insider Access: Get the first word on the new Detroit walk-up window opening.

* Pro-Tips: Learn how to earn “Super Duper Points” just by taking photos on your next hike.

* Knowledge: Impress your friends at the next beer fest by explaining exactly how coffee-infused stouts are actually made.

Mentioned in this Episode

* Super Duper Drinks Order some today!

* The Hidden King (Ann Arbor): Home of the legendary Super Duper Cold Brew Martini. Listen to our interview with Mark Wilfong.

* Griffin Claw Brewing Co.: Where the coffee and beer worlds collide.

Get full access to Life In Michigan at

Illuminating West Michigan with the Lakeshore Keepers

Season 2 · Episode 2

Friday, March 6, 2026 • Duration 58:33

Episode Summary

What does it take to keep the lights burning on Michigan’s west coast? In this episode, Chuck and Brenda explore the world of lighthouse preservation with the team from Lakeshore Keepers. From managing over 300 volunteers to the ‘workcation’ of a lifetime, Amy and Jack share the joys, challenges, and even the funny story of a ‘haunted’ snoring sound that turned out to be a mechanical mystery. Whether you’re a history buff or an aspiring keeper, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the sentinels of Lake Michigan.

Key Takeaways

* The Fleet: Lakeshore Keepers manages five distinct historic sites:

* Big Sable Point Lighthouse (Ludington)

* Little Sable Point Lighthouse (Mears)

* Ludington North Breakwater Light (Ludington)

* White River Light Station (Whitehall)

* Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse (Manistee - their newest acquisition!)

* The “Workcation”: Resident volunteers live on-site (often in modern residences with Wi-Fi and laundry) and serve as docents, gift shop keepers, and tower guides.

* Volunteer Impact: With only six staff members, the organization relies on 300+ volunteers to welcome nearly 40,000 guests annually.

* Safety First: Working on a pierhead means respecting the lake. Jack explains why the Ludington North Breakwater Light closes when the northwest winds hit 12–15 mph, causing waves to crash over the pier.

* Preservation Needs: While professionals handle scaffolding and heavy restoration, volunteers support “light painting,” fence maintenance, and general upkeep.

Organizations & Businesses Mentioned

* Lakeshore Keepers: The primary organization dedicated to preserving and promoting West Michigan lighthouses.

Get full access to Life In Michigan at

Lights, Camera, Ann Arbor: The Christina Morales Hemenway Interview

Season 2 · Episode 1

Friday, February 20, 2026 • Duration 50:56

Chuck and Brenda talk with Ann Arbor’s own Christina Morales Hemenway, founder of Dancingstar Productions. From studying under Marcel Marceau to producing six feature films, Christina shares her journey of creating independent, “uplifting” cinema outside the Hollywood system.

Episode Highlights:

* The Independent Spark: Why a “lost” master tape at a major studio led Christina to embrace total creative independence.

* Michigan Film Scene: A look at the rise and fall of the state’s film incentives and why she insists on filming in Ann Arbor.

* Cinema that Heals: The mission behind “uplifting” films and a moving story of how her movie Angel Moon saved a viewer’s life.

* Universal Chord: Details on her upcoming 1969 period piece starring Sally Struthers, featuring Ann Arbor icons like Iggy Pop and the Big House.

* Mentorship: How her Creative Academy and Presence Coaching help new artists break into the business without making the same mistakes she did.

Resources & Links:

* Stream Her Films: Watch directly at DancingStarProductions.com (where 100% of your rental goes to the filmmaker!).

* Uplifting Film Festival: Join the event on April 26th at Hearsay Brewery.

* Learn the Craft: Check out her film-making and content creator tutorials.

Get full access to Life In Michigan at

The Strand’s Second Act: Reviving Pontiac, Michigan’s Landmark

Season 1 · Episode 26

Friday, February 6, 2026 • Duration 27:06

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 Takeaways from the Conversation

* A Storied History: The Strand opened in 1921 for Vaudeville and silent films. It survived the demolition of historic buildings in the 80s (partly due to its stint as a “Triple X” cinema) before being beautifully restored and reopened in 2017.

* More Than a Stage: Under the leadership of the Westberg brothers and the Encore Performing Arts Center, the Strand has transformed into an arts campus. This includes a second-floor rotating gallery and upcoming community education programs for youth and adults.

* Economic Catalyst: Alex discusses how the theater helps drive traffic to local businesses like Fillmore 13 Brewery and helps change the perception of downtown Pontiac.

* The “Marquee” Experience: During the pandemic, the theater stayed alive by putting bands on top of the outdoor marquee to perform for the street—a tradition that continues today with the city’s partnership.

* Upcoming Highlights: Look out for performances by Sierra Hull and Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs, plus the return of the Pontiac Youth Theater intensive.

Tips for Your Visit

* Free parking is available near the corner of Wayne and Water Streets (near the Coney Island). Street parking and paid lots are also available.

Get full access to Life In Michigan at

Why The Hidden King Feels So Ann Arbor

Season 1 · Episode 25

Friday, January 23, 2026 • Duration 54:01

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 its weight.

Links and Mentions

* The Hidden King in Ann Arbor

* Super Duper Coffee

* Mammoth Distilling

* Amor y Amargo in New York

* Sother Teague

* Dead Rabbit in New York

* Ari Bakes

* TeaHaus in Ann Arbor

* Food Gatherers

* Vault of Midnight

* Ann Arbor’s fairy door tradition

Get full access to Life In Michigan at

Talking Michigan Music With Mitten Music

Season 1 · Episode 24

Friday, January 9, 2026 • Duration 55:01

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 from the GIG- The Art of Michigan Music annual event on November 8th.

Links mentioned

* The Mitten Music Podcast

* GIG - The Art of Michigan Music

* Local Spins

* Sounds of the Zoo

* WYCE

* Oddfellow Concert Lounge