Total Michigan
Michigan is full of ordinary people who are doing some extraordinary things in their communities, our great state, and around the world. These Michiganders had to overcome serious obstacles to achieve their vision of success. We cover all of Michigan, both Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Sit back and enjoy these inspiring true stories. Visit us at https://totalmichigan.com to join our community and get these episodes sent straight to your inbox!
Building a Place for Grace: Jenny Radler’s Mission to Help Special Needs Families
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 struggles and triumphs, Jenny found her calling: creating a place where all children—regardless of ability—are welcomed, loved, and given the tools to thrive.
✅ How Jenny’s personal experience raising her daughter with special needs led to fou...
Serving with Love: The Role of Eastside Soup Kitchen in Saginaw
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. We discuss the history of the soup kitchen, the challenges of funding and food supply, and the many ways volunteers and donors contribute to this life-changing mission.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
T...The Story of Buddy’s Pizza: The Home of Detroit-Style Pizza
🚀 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, delicious, crispy-edged pizza. Wesley shares the history, the secret to their famous crust, and why Buddy’s continues to define Detroit-Style Pizza.
🔹 What You’ll Learn:
The rich history of Buddy’s Pizza and how it started in Detro...Empowering Dreams: Terry Duperon and Duperon Education
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 Duperon shares his inspiring journey from early struggles with dyslexia to founding a multi-million dollar company. Discussion of his educational ventures, including teaching entrepreneurship and starting Duperon Education and the One Degree Club. Insights into his philosophy on...Inspiration Beyond Walls: Exploring The Alden B Dow Home and Studio
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, emphasizing the deep community impact and educational programs associated with the Dow family's philanthropic work. -
The episode delves into
The influence Alden B. Dow had on Midland and beyond. Introducing modernism to...Wilderness Trail Zoo: Creating Wild Wonders
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 creating immersive experiences for its visitors while contributing to worldwide conservation efforts.
- Initiatives to Add More Public Interaction: Jeremiah emphasizes the zoo's focus on creating hands-on, memorable experiences for visitors, including a new rainforest...
🌸 Petals, Passion, and Perseverance: The Story of Smith’s Flowers & Gifts
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 power of family legacy.
🌸 In this episode, you’ll discover:
The secrets to a lasting family business – How Smith’s Flowers has navigated generational challenges and industry shifts.The art and emotion behind floristry...Aster Midland: From Michelin to Michigan
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 sustainability, community, and seasonality in his farm-to-table concept, and discusses the unique offerings and practices that set Aster apart.
Key points discussed include
Evan's roots and culinary backgroundThe philosophy behind AsterThe hurdles faced in...The Glenn Meadow Experience: Peace, Serendipity, and Community
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’s serene shores. Hear how her love for seasons and her passion for creating authentic connections inspired her and her husband Mark to turn their property into a retreat that is as much about...
Raising a Glass in Michigan: The Three Blondes Brewing Story
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 industry and the support received from other brewery and restaurant owners.The strategic planning and resilience that went into establishing Three Blondes Brewing, including overcoming early challenges and COVID-19 disruptions.The innovative and family-friendly atmosphere of the brewery, highlighted by...
