Total Michigan

Ready to make your own customized wine? Brett Scharnhorst, owner of Vinomondo, a unique winery in Port Huron, Michigan, talks about their unique 'do it yourself' winemaking experience. Brett shares his journey from working in IT to becoming a winery owner and describes Vinomondo's distinct approach to wine, which allows customers to participate in the winemaking process, from selection to bottling. The winery provides an extensive range of wine options, sourcing materials globally to cater to all tastes, and emphasizes a no-added-sulfites policy for a better wine experience. Brett also explains the personal history behind his shift to winemaking, reflecting on concerns about his future in IT and a serendipitous opportunity to take over Vinomondo with his wife, Jackie. The interview touches on the importance of enjoying quality wine, the versatility and fun of the bottling experience at Vinomondo, and how custom wine batches and labels can make meaningful gifts or event features. Brett's story highlights a profound career shift driven by passion, a love for wine, and a desire to offer a unique, interactive wine experience. Links:Vinomondo Website: https://vinomondowinery.com/Vinomondo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100031140955789Subscribe to our Email Newsletter: https://totalmichigan.com/join/Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/totalmichiganWatch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@totalmichiganShow Notes:00:00 The Unlikely Journey from IT to Winemaking03:51 Brett's Personal Journey and Transition into Winemaking07:11 Exploring the World of Wine: A Personal Transformation10:27 Vinomondo's Approach to Wine: Breaking the Rules for Better Taste16:42 The Vinomondo Experience: From First Visit to Bottling Your Own Wine23:30 The Social Aspect of Wine Bottling at Vinomondo25:06 How to Experience Vinomondo for Yourself

Sadaat Hossain, owner of the Raven Cafe in Port Huron shares the cafe's evolution under two different visions: one focused on creating a unique establishment and the other on operational excellence. Saadat shares his journey from a sound engineer to a restaurateur, culminating in his acquisition and management of the Raven Cafe, known for its espresso and spirit bar, eclectic live music, and Edgar Allan Poe-inspired ambiance. The episode explores the cafe's impact on the local music and arts scene, its inclusive community role, and Saadat's deep connection to Port Huron. It highlights the challenges and surprises of running such a distinctive local business, underlining the importance of community and personal passion in entrepreneurial success.Links:https://ravencafeph.com/Connect with Total Michigan:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/totalmichiganInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/totalmichiganYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@totalmichiganShow Notes:00:00 Introduction to the Love-Hate Relationship with the Industry00:15 Welcome to Total Michigan: Exploring the Raven Cafe00:47 The Tale of Two Owners: Vision and Execution at the Raven Cafe01:26 Meet Sadaat Hossain: From Sound Engineering to Cafe Ownership04:09 The Transformation of the Raven Cafe: A Renovation Story14:34 The Raven Cafe's Unique Offerings and Community Impact15:35 Sadaat's Journey: From Music to Managing the Raven Cafe23:26 The Raven Cafe's Signature Events and How to Connect25:33 Conclusion and How to Find the Raven Cafe

What is Yoga? What are the health benefits? Emilee Hartwig, the owner of Happy Dog Yoga Studios. Emilee shares her unexpected journey from aspiring yoga teacher to yoga studio owner, including how she stumbled upon yoga as a new mother seeking physical and mental wellness. Emilee outlines the evolution of Happy Dog Yoga Studios from its inception in Port Huron in 2015, and its expansion to St. Clair, offering a range of services including yoga classes, Reiki, and massage. The interview delves into the challenges and surprises of running a yoga business, the importance of modifying yoga poses for each individual, and the fundamental role of intentional breathing in yoga practice. Emilee's story illustrates a personal and professional transformation, underscored by a commitment to bringing yoga's physical and mental benefits to the community.Show Notes00:00 The Unexpected Journey to Yoga Studio Ownership01:20 Discovering Happy Dog Yoga Studios: A Journey of Growth04:39 Finding Solace and Strength in Yoga07:13 The Path to Becoming a Yoga Instructor12:32 Embracing the Challenges and Surprises of Studio Ownership16:50 The Transformative Power of Yoga: Beyond the Physical19:59 Breathing: The Essence of Yoga and Self-Care25:11 How to Connect with Happy Dog Yoga Studios

What's there to do in Port Huron? Plenty! Andrew Kerscher, the Manager of Community Engagement at Port Huron Museums, in Port Huron, Michigan shares his journey from a history-loving high school graduate to his role at the museum, including his time as an interpreter at Mackinac State Historic Parks. He delves into the unique challenges and rewards of museum work, emphasizing the importance of making history engaging and accessible in short encounters. Port Huron Museums, managing four distinct sites, including the Carnegie Center and Michigan's oldest lighthouse at Fort Gratiot, offers a wide array of historical and cultural exhibitions ranging from maritime history to Thomas Edison's early life. The episode also touches on Andrew's personal connection to Port Huron, highlighting how his dedication to the town's history and culture influences his work. Andrew also discusses upcoming and rotating exhibitions, like the unique Barbie exhibit, and how the museum aims to impact its visitors positively. The podcast concludes with ways to connect with Port Huron Museums online to learn more about their offerings and events.00:00 The Art of Engaging Families in Museums00:23 Welcome to Total Michigan: Discovering Port Huron01:31 Exploring the Rich History of Port Huron Museums03:17 Andrew Kerscher: A Journey Through Michigan's History06:42 The Challenges and Rewards of Museum Work07:27 Navigating Career Paths in the Museum Field07:55 From Big City Museums to Hometown History09:44 Sponsor Break and Audience Engagement10:18 Exploring Port Huron Museums with Andrew Kersher10:39 Diving into the Fort Gratiot Light Station14:34 The Fascinating World of Thomas Edison in Port Huron19:43 Discovering the Huron Light Ship Museum21:22 Inside the Carnegie: A Year-Round Cultural Hub22:57 The Creative Process Behind the Barbie Exhibit24:19 Connecting with Port Huron Museums Online

What is Michigan's contribution to hockey as a sport? Gary Warwick of Warwick Goalie Mask runs a family-run business based out of Port Huron, Michigan. They specialize in high-end, custom goalie masks. Gary delves into the history of goalie masks, highlighting how Jacques Plante's introduction of the mask in the late 1950s revolutionized the sport. Gary also shares the Warwick family's journey from construction workers to leading innovators in goalie mask production. He offers insights into the meticulous process behind crafting a custom mask, emphasizing the importance of measurements, preferences, and the advanced materials used today, including carbon fiber and Kevlar. The discussion also covers the evolution of masks from the basic fiberglass models of the past to the highly customized and protective gear available today, underscored by stories of NHL clients and the impact of goalie coaches on Warwick's business. The episode is a deep dive into the craft of making goalie masks, the history behind it, and the singular importance of this protective gear in the world of hockey.Links:Warwick Goalie Mask Website: https://www.warwickmaskcompany.com/Get these episodes sent directly to your inbox at https://totalmichigan.com/join/Show Notes:00:00 The Evolution of Goalie Masks: A Hockey Legacy01:02 Introducing Warwick Goalie Mask: A Family Business01:31 The Art of Crafting Custom Goalie Masks05:54 A Deep Dive into the Warwick Family History12:39 Taking Over the Family Business: A New Generation17:14 The Future of Goalie Masks: Innovations and Customizations24:53 Connecting with Warwick Goalie Mask

Carol Brooks is the innovative owner of Foundry and the Hallway Entertainment in Port Huron, Michigan. Carol shares her inspiring journey from a photography and history graduate to becoming an entrepreneur who transformed a struggling art gallery into a vibrant hub for art and entertainment. With a background deeply rooted in her love for photography and history, and a passion to enliven the Port Huron community, Carol ventured into creating the Hallway Entertainment, featuring escape rooms and game shows. She then took over a former nonprofit art gallery, morphing it into Foundry, a dynamic space offering a wide array of art-based activities like pottery classes, cosmic pottery, painting, splat rooms, and more. Beyond providing entertainment, Foundry also offers immersive experiences with music, dancing, comedy, and various classes, affirming Carol's commitment to making Port Huron a lively place for residents and visitors alike. Carol's story is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and entrepreneurship in reviving and reimagining communal spaces for the betterment of society.Links:Foundry Website: (Click here)Escape Rooms at The Hallway Entertainment (Click here)Show Notes:00:00 Introduction and Background00:55 The Birth of Foundry: A Home for Art and Entertainment01:50 Carol's Journey: From Photography to Entrepreneurship05:46 The Evolution of Escape Rooms05:55 The Power of Entrepreneurship and Community Engagement08:15 The Expansion of Foundry: From Pottery to Splat Room14:16 The Listening Room: A New Dimension of Art14:29 The Growth and Challenges of Foundry23:10 The Future of Foundry: Iris Photography and More24:46 How to Connect with Foundry

Josh Schaeding shares the amazing story behind a staple in Hemlock, Michigan. The Maple Grille. Sponsored by the Stevens Center for Family Business, the episode dives into the restaurant's origin, its commitment to serving locally sourced, farm-to-table dishes, and the challenges of running a destination restaurant in a rural area. The Maple Grille is renowned for its use of whole animals, wood fire cooking, and an open kitchen concept, complementing its distinctive farm-to-table approach. Josh shares his journey from working in fast food to developing a passion for culinary arts and eventually starting his restaurant, which has become a staple in the community. Despite its location and the initial challenge of lacking a professional kitchen, The Maple Grille thrives through word-of-mouth and minimal advertising, focusing on quality, local ingredients, and a commitment to the community. The episode also touches on the importance of family support in the business, the decision to keep prices affordable, and the restaurant's strategy of menu flexibility to ensure freshness and reduce waste.Links:The Maple Grille Restaurant Website: (Click here)Facebook Page: (Click here)Address:13105 Gratiot Road ​Hemlock, MI 4862​6Phone: 989-233-2895Sponsors:The Stevens Center for Family Business: (Click here)Show Notes:00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:25 Welcome to Total Michigan: Interview with Josh Shadian00:56 The Story Behind Maple Grille01:35 Josh's Journey into Culinary Arts02:41 The Birth of Maple Grille03:26 The Challenges and Successes of Running a Restaurant04:15 The Farm-to-Table Concept at Maple Grille09:22 Sponsor Break: Stevens Center for Family Business11:03 The Family Affair and Community Involvement15:43 The Unique Dining Experience at Maple Grille18:22 The Importance of Local Sourcing and Sustainability25:16 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this interview, Reverend Kathy Albee, the CEO and founder of 'Released to Reign', expounds on the relevance of the Bible in today's world and the essence of Christianity. Reverend Kathy strongly emphasizes that the Bible is not merely a guide for a good life, but is for the children of God seeking to understand His plan and purpose for their lives. The interview also probes into issues such as the Prosperity Gospel or 'fire insurance' mindset and urges Christians to base their faith and identity in God's love rather than their works. Kathy also elucidates her organization's mission to help Christians grasp their inherited rights as children of God and free themselves from negative mentalities. Moreover, she points out the importance of humility, love, acceptance, security, and significance which manifest through faith.Contact Kathy:Phone: 989-415-9329Email: albee.kathleen@yahoo.comShow Notes00:00 Introduction: The Relevance of the Bible00:21 Meet the Guest: Reverend Kathy Albee01:28 Understanding 'Released to Reign'03:23 The Journey to Spiritual Transformation05:06 Religion vs Relationship: A Deeper Insight08:13 The Power of Love and Humility in Christianity14:45 The Bible's Relevance in the Modern World17:28 The Journey of Jews in Egypt17:28 The Significance of Ten Commandments17:42 The Modern Relevance of the Bible18:31 The Pitfalls of the Prosperity Gospel19:55 Personal Experiences and the Power of Faith21:27 The True Gospel and Overcoming the World22:32 Finding a Good Church and Understanding Doctrine25:34 The Five Major Needs of Every Human Being29:03 Reaching Out and Making a Difference

The interview features the transformation story of Mirakle McGlown, from facing incarceration to becoming a successful entrepreneur. After receiving a 20-year sentence, McGlown turned to spirituality and leather crafting while in prison for solace and personal growth. He went on to win clemency after demonstrating a significant change in behavior and a committed resolve to better his life. Following his release, he created 1-Eleven Leather Goods, a brand crafting unique handmade leather products. The brand was named to represent one love, one power, and one God, embodying the spiritual journey of McGlown and his commitment to positive change. The interview includes a detailed account of his life in prison, crafting as a form of therapy, his faith, and the subsequent establishment of a successful business.Links:1 Eleven Leather Goods Website: Click HereTo get these episodes sent directly to your inbox, join our email list at https://totalmichigan.com/join

100K Ideas, a nonprofit centered in Flint, Michigan provides diverse resources for aspiring entrepreneurs. Executive Director Brandee Cook Brown discusses the organization's evolution, including the initial challenges they faced in their infancy and subsequent community outreach efforts. Brandee also shares how 100K Ideas expanded its resource center to include a multitude of programs aimed to equip members with business-critical skills such as accounting and usage of QuickBooks. One vital success story highlighted is that of Miracle McGlone, a former client of 100K Ideas who began with crafting handmade leather bags and has now grown his business into a thriving venture.Links:100k Ideas Website: https://100kideas.org/If you want these stories sent right to your inbox, join our email list at https://totalmichigan.com/joinShow Notes:01:04 Understanding 100K Ideas02:01 The Process and Services of 100K Ideas03:46 Expansion and Impact of 100K Ideas04:27 Shops on Saginaw: A Platform for Local Businesses07:35 Brandee's Journey to 100K Ideas11:23 The Decision to Join 100K Ideas13:48 Discussing Challenges14:21 Navigating Community Boundaries15:29 Addressing Community Engagement19:38 Highlighting Member Programs22:46 Sharing Success Stories

Leona Sullivan, one of the founders, and Amy Bartels Roe, the executive director of Mustard Seed Shelter, a resource for women and children experiencing homelessness. Based in Saginaw, Mustard Seed provides a supportive environment for guests to rebuild their lives, offering help with life skills, housing assistance, and opportunities for healing from traumas and substance misuse. The shelter operates under the principle of 'radical hospitality', ensuring every guest receives new belongings and is treated with dignity. Amy and Leona also discuss some upcoming fundraising events for Mustard Seed.Links:The Mustard Seed Shelter Website: https://themustardseedshelter.org/Upcoming Events: https://themustardseedshelter.org/events/Show Notes:00:00 Warning and Personal Story01:10 The Mustard Seed: A Place of Hope02:43 The Mustard Seed: A Closer Look09:03 The Founding of Mustard Seed04:45 The Journey of Mustard Seed08:29 Amy's Involvement with Mustard Seed10:51 The Unique Approach of Mustard Seed18:21 Transitioning from Mustard Seed14:46 The Role of Mental Health and Trauma15:23 The Importance of Time in Recovery16:23 Funding and Support18:26 The Importance of a Comfortable Living Space19:40 Community Support and Sponsorships23:47 Upcoming Events and Ways to Help

Cliff DuVernois engages in a delicious and enlightening chat with Amy Ruis, a Michigander who has turned her passion for food into thriving businesses - Aperitivo and Art of the Table. They discuss the unique joys and challenges that come with running a gourmet store and the importance of providing diverse, high-quality products for customers. In this episode, Amy discussesHow to approach trying new thingsMaking the experience of new cheeses funWhat you can expect at AperitivoShow Notes:00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:06 The Story of Aperitivo01:41 Amy's Journey to Grand Rapids02:53 The Birth of Art of the Table04:05 Why Retail? Amy's Love for the Business05:14 The Evolution of Art of the Table08:00 The Creation of Aperitivo09:42 The Art of Cheese and Wine11:18 Educating Customers and Staff15:14 Overcoming Challenges in Business15:32 The Struggles of Running a Business Solo18:39 Exploring the Cheese Shop Experience18:54 The Art of Choosing and Tasting Cheese21:34 The Unique Wine Collection at Aperitivo23:01 Cheese Recommendations and Where to Find Us

Cindy Schneider, the owner of Beacon Corner Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan, shares her journey from a teaching degree to the restaurant business, owning popular restaurants like Sanchez and Rome by Sanchez. She explains how the concept of Beacon Corner Bar developed, offering the Grand Rapids area an enjoyable seafood dining in a casual ambiance. The conversation further details the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, sourcing and maintaining the quality of seafood, and their menu, including signature dishes like walleye bites, seafood boils, lobster rolls, among others. Her restaurant also offers extensive mocktails, cocktails, and wine menu to overlay the diverse palate of customers.Links:Beacon Corner Bar Website (Click here)Beacon Corner Bar Facebook (Click here)San Chez Tapas Bistro Bar (Click here)Address:38 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

This script is an interview between Cliff Duvernois, the host of 'total Michigan,' and Bernie Arbic, a board member at the Chippewa County Historical Society (CCHS). Topics discussed include the significance of historical preservation, the role of the CCHS, particularly in relation to Sault Ste. Marie's history, Bernie's personal interest in historical photography, and a detailed explanation about the CCHS's unique model railroad display. Other topics covered include Sault Ste. Marie's past industries, military history and Bernie's story about the Mackinac Bridge. Lastly, Bernie shares the ways for people to get involved or visit the CCHS.Links:Chippewa County Historical Society of Michigan Website (Click here)CCHS Facebook Page (Click here)

In this episode, we hear the fascinating journey of Hausbeck Pickles and Peppers, a family business that went from humble beginnings to playing on an international stage. The interview with the president and CEO of Hausbeck Pickles and Peppers, Tim Hausbeck, takes us through his early life, education, and the decision to join the family business. He talks about the challenges the company faced, their growth journey, and their transition from supplying local grocery stores to becoming a major supplier of Burger King, Subway, and other fast food chains. Today, they ship out around 60 semis a week to Canada and the U.S, and their pickles are a part of over a billion meals a year. Tim also shares his business philosophy, giving insights into his leadership style. Finally, he talks about his proudest moments in the company.Show notes:00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgement01:19 Getting to Know Tim Hausbeck03:56 The History of Hausbeck Pickles and Peppers06:29 Challenges and Growth of the Family Business07:28 Transition of Leadership in the Family Business08:26 Tim's Journey into the Family Business09:49 The Growth and Expansion of Hausbeck Pickles13:02 The Journey of Landing Major Fast Food Chains19:00 The Challenges of Expansion and Growth22:36 The Decision to Stay in Saginaw23:48 Tim's Ascension to President and CEOLinks:Hausbeck Pickles and Peppers Website: https://hausbeck.comSponsor:Stevens Center for Family Business: https://svsu.edu/scfb

The script is a conversation between the host, Cliff Duvernois, and Carri Bradley, a board member and co-chair of the I-500 snowmobile race in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. They discuss Carri's involvement with the race, the history and significance of the I-500, the events and activities during race week, and the experience of watching and participating in the race. Carri also talks about the community involvement and volunteers needed for the event.Links:https://i-500.com/

In this episode of Total Michigan, host Cliff DuVernois talks to Erica Hammel McLaughlin, the woman behind Wyatt's Law, a preventive measure aimed at protecting children from potential harm. After her son Wyatt suffered severe child abuse at the hands of a convicted abuser, she took it upon herself to prevent such tragedies from happening to others. Erica shares her emotional journey of relentless advocacy that led to the introduction and passing of Wyatt's Law, making part of Michigan's Central child abuse registry accessible to the public. Listen as Erica shares the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and the hope she has for safer future for all children.Links:Wyatt's Law for Parents: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/abuse-neglect/accordion/forms/central-registry-clearance-requestsFollow Wyatt's Journey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/237703759718130Get These Interviews Sent Directly to Your Inbox: https://totalmichigan.com/join/Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background00:16 The Start of a Heartbreaking Journey01:33 Erica's Early Life and Marriage09:26 The Tragic Incident and Hospital Experience12:30 The Aftermath and Legal Proceedings16:11 The Fight for Justice and Wyatt's Law18:22 A Mother's Fight: The Emergency Room Incident18:22 The Aftermath: Dealing with the Legal System18:59 The Birth of Wyatt's Law: A Mother's Crusade19:51 The Struggle: Navigating the Political Landscape25:22 The Turning Point: A New Direction for Wyatt's Law26:41 The Triumph: Wyatt's Law Becomes a Reality27:02 The Impact: Wyatt's Law in Action29:19 The Future: Advocacy and Awareness

Host Cliff DuVernois talks with Peter Jacob and Jason Kakabaker, co-owners of the Cakabakery, a custom bakery out of Grand Rapids, Michigan. They share the backstory of their bakery, recounting how they started over 12 years ago out of a rented house and have grown the business to include three locations. They discuss their experience on the Food Network’s ‘Cupcake Wars’ and the impact that had on their business. They shed light on their signature offerings, the Dark Chocolate Merlot cupcake and the award-winning chocolate chunk cookie among others. Links from the show:The Cakabakery Website: https://thecakabakery.com/The Cakabakery Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/THECAKABAKERY

In this episode of Total Michigan, host Cliff Duvernois sits down with Casey Lowery, the President of Applied Innovation, a technology company based out of Grand Rapids, Michigan. They discuss the company's journey from a startup in the copier and printer industry to its explosive growth into a tech giant with a strong presence in various states. As part of a family-run business, Casey discusses his experiences stepping into different roles within the company and his transition into his current position as President. The discussion provides unique insights into how Applied Innovation maintained its customer-focused ethos while growing and diversifying their services. The company's unique culture, transition into the IT space, and their approach to customer service are all discussed, revealing a story of perseverance, strategic growth, and the power of a service-centric approach.Links from this Interview:Applied Innovation Website: https://www.appliedinnovation.com/Children's Healing Center: https://childrenshealing.org/Simon Sinek Start with Why Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4ZoJKF_VuAAtomic Habits Book: https://a.co/d/9TQiYwE

Roger LeLievre is the owner, publisher, and editor of "Know Your Ships" which is now in it's 65th publication. They discuss Roger's passion for ships and the shipping industry, how he inherited the responsibility of publishing the Guide from its original author, Tom Mance, as well as his mission to keep the maritime enthusiasm alive among a younger generation. The conversation includes stories of interesting vessels and anecdotes, depicting Roger's path from being a boat nerd to a recognized figure in the maritime industry. Roger also details his efforts to keep the "Know Your Ships" Guide relevant and engaging.Links:https://knowyourships.com/https://boatnerd.com/Get these excellent episodes delivered straight to your inbox at https://totalmichigan.com/join/