Total Michigan

Before his song You Ain’t Pretty hit the Top 40 on the Billboard country charts, Nate Barnes was clocking in at a nuclear power plant in Michigan. In this revealing interview, Nate shares his journey from small-town South Haven to Nashville’s country music scene—and how faith, family, and trades work shaped every step. In This Episode: Why Nate spent over a decade in skilled trades before pursuing...

Gary Johnson, a lifelong educator and music historian, is the founder of the  Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame  and the curator of a stunning exhibit at the Historical Museum of Bay County. From teaching Michigan’s first junior high rock history class to curating world-class displays, Gary's passion for rock and roll has inspired generations. Key Topics Discussed: The founding...

A heartfelt journey from logistics to layers of dough, Maria Otto left a thriving corporate career to rediscover her joy in the kitchen. In this episode, she shares the emotional, practical, and often humorous twists that led to the creation of  Little Pastry Shop  in Bay City. From baking pies at a golf course to quitting her executive role to reconnect with her daughter, Maria’s story...

When most people visit a museum, they walk through history. But aboard the USS Edson, you're  walking inside it . In this episode, Navy veteran and lifelong Bay City resident  Bill Randall  takes us deep into the hull of a Vietnam-era destroyer—now a floating museum—and deeper still into the heart of what it means to serve, remember, and preserve. From scavenging radar systems throu...

In this episode of  Total Michigan , we dive into the story of Lonnie Paser, owner of Artisan Urban Bistro in Saginaw. With a deep love for food and community, Lonnie transformed her restaurant into more than just a place to eat—it’s a movement. From using locally sourced ingredients to launching a weekly ‘Grateful Pasta’ night that raises funds for nonprofits, Lonnie shares how small busines...

Never underestimate the power of a mother's love. We sit down with  Jenny Dumont Radler , the founder of  A Place for Grace , Michigan's only fully inclusive childcare, preschool, afterschool program, and teen center for children with special needs. Jenny shares her deeply personal journey of raising her daughter, Emma, who was born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. Through her stru...

In this inspiring episode of Total Michigan , we visit the Eastside Soup Kitchen in Saginaw, where Executive Director Diane Keenan shares the incredible work being done to serve the community. With a deep passion for helping those in need, Diane and her team prepare and distribute over 8,000 meals a week, ensuring that individuals and families have access to nutritious food and essential resources...

🚀 Ever wondered where Detroit-Style Pizza started? In this episode, we sit down with Wesley Pikula, Chief Brand Officer of Buddy’s Pizza, to uncover the history, tradition, and expansion of this iconic Michigan staple. From its humble beginnings as a corner bar to becoming a nationally recognized pizza phenomenon, Buddy’s has maintained its commitment to quality, community, and of course, de...

How did a dyslexic high school dropout become a successful inventor and entrepreneur? In this episode of Total Michigan, host Cliff DuVernois interviews Terry Duperon, founder of Duperon Corporation and Duperon Education. Terry shares his incredible story of overcoming severe dyslexia and other personal challenges to become a successful inventor and entrepreneur. In this show, we discuss: Terry Du...

What makes the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio a landmark of both history and futuristic design? - Craig McDonald shares the unique architectural legacy of Alden B. Dow, highlighting the historic and innovative essence of his nearly 100-year-old home and studio. - Craig discusses his personal journey from a high school part-time employee at the Dow residence to becoming the Executive Director, emphas...

Can a small zoo in Michigan redefine the zoo experience and make a global impact? In this episode of Total Michigan, host Cliff DuVernois sits down with Jeremiah Tietz, the passionate director of Wilderness Trails Zoo. They delve into the zoo's interactive initiatives, conservation efforts, and Jeremiah's unique journey that led him back to Michigan. Discover how this sanctuary near Frankenmuth is...

What does it take to keep a family business thriving for over 75 years? In this episode of  Total Michigan , we step into the world of floristry with Mark Smith, third-generation owner of Smith’s Flowers & Gifts in Midland, Michigan. From its humble beginnings in 1947 to becoming a beloved community institution, Smith’s Flowers is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the enduring po...

What does it take to transform a hidden gem into a beloved local eatery? In this episode of 'Total Michigan,' host Cliff Duvernois interviews Evan Sumrell, chef and owner of Aster restaurant in Midland, Michigan. Evan shares his culinary journey from Georgia to Chicago and ultimately to Michigan, revealing the challenges and inspirations behind opening Aster. He emphasizes the importance of sustai...

Have you ever dreamed of escaping the chaos of life and finding a place where peace and connection thrive? In this episode of  Total Michigan , we take you to Glenn Meadow Bed & Breakfast in South Haven, a haven of tranquility where strangers become friends and lives are transformed. Tracey Davis, co-owner of Glenn Meadow, shares her journey from California’s bustling culture to Michigan’...

In this episode of Total Michigan, host Cliff DuVernois interviews Carrie Troyer, co-owner of Three Blondes Brewing, a thriving brewery and restaurant in South Haven, Michigan. Carrie shares the journey of opening and managing the brewery with her sisters, overcoming challenges, and creating a community hub. Key discussion points include: The collaborative spirit of the Michigan craft beer industr...

What if the secret to spreading love was as simple as baking a pie? In this episode, we visit Sweetie-Licious Bakery in DeWitt, Michigan, where Linda Hundt turned her passion for baking into a mission of joy and connection. From battling personal struggles to earning national acclaim, Linda’s story is proof that love can be baked into every bite. Join us as we uncover the heartwarming journey behi...

Everywhere you look, there's a help wanted sign. Today we talk to Ben Rogers, the owner of Ziebart Automotive franchise in Bay City, Michigan. Rogers shares his journey from working in automotive service to running a successful franchise, emphasizing the importance of finding fulfillment and passion in work. He also discusses overcoming staffing challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,...

Curious how someone with no management experience took over a family-owned bar and turned it into a successful restaurant? In this episode of Total Michigan, Cliff DuVernois sits down with Cathy Howell, the owner of The Wicked Sister in Sault Ste. Marie, to discuss her journey from waiting tables to owning a bustling restaurant. Cathy shares the challenges she faced, the strategies she implemented...

How important is local art to a community?  Michele Leclaire, the Executive Director of Buckham Gallery in Flint, Michigan, discusses the 41-year history of the gallery, its mission to enrich the community through contemporary art, and her personal journey from Orlando to Flint. Key highlights include: - The founding of Buckham Gallery by local artists in 1984 to create a supportive artistic...

How does a stay at home mom turn into a chocolate entrepreneur?  Michelle Daniels founded Homemade Chocolates by Michelle in Flint Township. Michelle shares her transformative journey from being a stay-at-home mom and part-time dental hygienist to becoming an entrepreneur after her husband's death.  We discuss:  the emotional and financial challenges she faced the pivotal moments an...

Deborah Tacoma, the inventor of the Freedom Wand. Discover how a car accident and a personal need for better hygiene solutions led Deborah to design a multifunctional tool that has changed lives worldwide. From her humble beginnings in Holland, Michigan, to international distribution, hear Deborah's inspiring story of innovation, faith, and determination. We discuss: How did a bathroom hygiene pro...

More Michigan Magic with Mooville. Eric Westendorp of Mooville, uncovers the evolution of their on-farm creamery and the family's journey from dairy farming to producing award-winning ice cream. Eric shares insights on the challenges of family business dynamics, the unique qualities of their 'Creamline' milk, and their commitment to preserving a farm-to-table experience. Tune in to hear how Moovil...

Dive into the world of Last Level, a unique game bar set up with a nostalgic retro theme. Host Cliff DuVernois interviews Ed McNulty, owner of Last Level in Fenton, Michigan, as they explore the concept behind combining classic arcade gaming with console gaming and social activities. Discover how Ed transitioned from a law enforcement career to owning a game bar, and learn about the challenges and...

What is Radical Hospitality? Leona Sullivan and Amy Bartels Roe from Mustard Seed Shelter discuss the founding and mission of Mustard Seed Shelter, which provides a home for women and children experiencing homelessness in Saginaw. The episode delves into the unique, compassionate approach of the shelter, the support they receive from the community, and the specific programs they offer to help gues...

What kind of passion goes into a really god cup of coffee? Rodney Hensley, owner of Sozo Coffee in Ionia, Michigan. Rodney shares his journey from being a traveling musician to starting a coffee roasting company 18 years ago with his wife. In this episode, we cover: The importance of building direct relationships with coffee farmers. Ensuring fair compensation, and the commitment to quality in eve...