Behind the Mitten

Run Mackinac Island, Butterfly Project, Big Little Wines and more (May 23-24, 2026)

Behind the Mitten Episode 753 Behind 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, [https://www.mackinacisland.org/] who tells us what is new in 2026. Segment 2: The owners of Big Little Wines [https://www.biglittlewines.com/] in Suttons Bay. Segment 3: The founders and their inspirational story at St. Clair Butterfly Foundation. [https://www.facebook.com/StClairButterflyFoundation/] Segment 4: Organizers of the four annual running races on the Island at runmackinac.com [https://runmackinac.com/]. Follow updates for Behind the Mitten on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/behindthemitten/] and our new Substack for news and updates at amyandgonzo.com [https://behindthemitten.substack.com/].

From Mackinaw City to Wolverine: Another road trip! (May 16-17, 2026)

Behind the Mitten Episode 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 [https://www.facebook.com/behindthemitten/] and our new Substack for news and updates at amyandgonzo.com [https://behindthemitten.substack.com/].

Cereal Fest, plus Calhoun County Fun 2026

Behind the Mitten Podcast May 22, 2026 Behind 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 [https://riverside.com/editor/58aaccef-27e9-4044-b84a-48874c7d2821/6a1063cee1aedc09f7d472a6] for event details, schedules, and accommodations.

The St. Clair Butterfly Foundation

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. [https://www.scbf.org/?fbclid=IwY2xjawR0Qf5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFidWx1QWdIRHhjbG9KaFp4c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHl9KYGYbXOUhzQgXZZRLqAVshoavl_eFB_8jx3xOBu0ctQX_rpex8uK0fm_q_aem_JDwUPFu_4gHqnA46d7jUCg] 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 our road trip show on WILS with Mike Austin (May 14, 2026)

Amy Sherman previews this weekend's show with an appearance on the Morning Wake Up on WILS [https://1320wils.com/] 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.