• A snowmobilers guide to Gaylord's best restaurant stops
    Feb 2 2026
    On this special edition podcast, we are joined by our great friend Christy Walcott, Vice President of all things FUN at the Gaylord Michigan Tourism Bureau.

    Christy is actually the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Bureau, which really does mean that her job involves taking visitors out to show them the very best that Gaylord has to offer. It's why we try to have her on as much as we can, because she not only lives in Gaylord, she gets on out there and experiences all the things that this fun Northern Michigan town has to offer. She's been on the show before, sharing everything from summer sink hole lakes for swimming to best places to paddle board.

    One thing she always has in spades is local restaurant recommendations, and more often than not, very specific DISH recommendations from said restaurants. Christy not only wants you to visit, she wants to make sure you try the best things on the menu.

    On this episode of Behind the Mitten, Christy gets extra specific for this 2026 winter season, which is turning out to be a bang up one for the Gaylord region, with oodles of snow piling up all over, creating amazing conditions for all the outdoor winter activities you can imagine. Gaylord is a mecca for snowmobilers, who can use the town as their base, and then explore all of northern Michigan via sled. Christy shares a fun itinerary for a, now get this, snowmobile foodie tour.

    Very cool, right? Christy takes us to places in town like Big Buck Brewery and Benethums, as well as places outside town, like The Thirsty Sturgeon and Paul's Pub, which is located just off Trail #403.

    You certainly don't have to travel via sled to experience all the great places that Christy suggests, you can also hop in your car and drive. But there is something both magical and downright wild about snowmobiling, so if you can give it a go, we highly recommend. There are places where you can rent snowmobiles, and all the gear too, in the Gaylord area. We've done this before and had an absolute blast. Let's just say that NEW snowmobiles are nothing like OLD 1980's snowmobiles, and we very much like the heated seat and handles.


    We also really recommend the Gaylord Tourism website, all the information that you need to explore this area can be found here.
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    12 Min.
  • Marquette is for Foodies, plus Marquette Mountain Resort, Polar Roll and more (Jan. 31-Feb. 1, 2026)
    Jan 30 2026
    This week, we visit Marquette Michigan, a gem no matter the season. This fun town nestled on the shores of Lake Superior is home to Northern Michigan University and really knows how to embrace winter with a flurry of activities and festivals.

    We kick off the show with Susan Estler from Travel Marquette who gives us an overview of winter in MQT, and then quickly gets down to business with what we love the most, where to eat. You need to warm up at some point, right? And Marquette has an incredible restaurant scene to check out, from funky dive bars with great burgers (yes, we are looking at you Pat's Bar) to hip spots like The Delft Bistro, where you'll feel like you might be in a slightly larger city. Of course, we'll gush on and on about one of our favorites, and a must stop when in town, delicious Lagniappe, which is yes, located in a basement downtown.

    First and foremost, you don't want to miss the very popular (and fun!) Winterfest and Rail Jam which is happening January 31 to February 1, 2026. Billed as a "marathon of mountain culture", this weekend will feature ski races, live music, and a freesyle rail jam. A highlight is the Torchlight Parade happening Saturday night, please be sure to register at the front desk so you can get your glow on. Also, don't miss FRESH oysters apres ski at the famous T-Bar, you probably won't be finding those anywhere else in the Yoop this weekend. Sunday, enjoy more skiing and racing.

    Orignally opened in 1957 as Cliff's Ridge, Marquette Mountain Resort is beloved by both locals and visiting tourists alike. In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding via three chair lifts and a rope tow. In the warmer months, bring your mountain bike and explore the trails, or just strap on your hiking boots. Anyway you experience MMR, you are sure to have a great time.

    https://www.marquettemountain.com/

    Next, Jason Rolling, Race Director for the Noqueamon Ski Marathon, joins us to explain cross country ski racing to us, since there are several kinds of races you can paricipate in. We found this extra helpful, because now we'll sound like we know what is going on during the Winter Olympics. Thank you Jason! Honestly, this race sounds like it's quite the experience. Jason also shares how important community support is for this race, from the volunteers, to local landowners granting permission for racers to cruise through their private land for the race. Just another reason to love our Yoopers.

    And, lookin ahead, the 2027 Noquemanon Ski Marathon will be held January 22nd-23rd, so you best start your training now.

    Finally, we meet Todd Poquette, Director of Adventure forthe Polar Roll, which is the largest fat tire bike race in Michigan, and part of the Great Lakes Fat Tire Series. There are three different races you can participate in on February 21, and we'll just leave you with the race's tag line...."it gets worse, before it gets better". Sounds like this one is for those with experience on the fat tire, we will be at the mass start, which sounds like it might be a little bit wild and right up our alley.

    We love Marquette, and hope that you do too. If so, be sure to check out the Respect Marquette pledge, and let's keep it amazing for all of us.
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    45 Min.
  • Why does Gaylord get so much? NWS Meteorologist Jim Keysor explains
    Jan 29 2026
    Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier radio show and podcast.
    Co-hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman are celebrating 11 years of traveling the great state of Michigan.

    Description: What makes Gaylord the snowbelt of Michigan? And why does this tiny region get up to 168 inches of snow annually—more than most places in the state?

    If you’ve ever wondered how geography and lake effects create this winter wonderland, this episode unlocks the secrets behind Michigan’s snowfall powerhouse. Join us as we chat with Jim Keysor, the meteorologist in charge at the National Weather Service in Gaylord, who shares fascinating insights into the region’s extraordinary snowfall.

    Discover how Lake Superior and the unique geography combine to produce relentless lake-effect snow, making Gaylord a high-altitude plateau with some of the best winter conditions in the country. You’ll learn why the UP’s flat landscape acts like a snow conveyor belt, and how elevation adds an extra 50-70 inches of snow annually, transforming this area into a snow lover’s paradise.

    We break down the science of lake-effect snow with surprising details: from how two Great Lakes deliver this snowstorm magic, to why Gaylord is one of the few places where weather modeling involves a 17-person team working around the clock.

    Jim shares his passion for cross-country skiing—an activity made effortless by the region’s consistent, high-quality snow—and tips for visitors eager to experience Michigan’s winter at its best.

    If you’re a skier, a snow fanatic, or just want to understand why Michigan turns into a snow-covered wonderland, this episode is essential listening. Jim’s expertise helps you see the weather not just as a forecast, but as a powerful force shaping local life, safety, and recreation.

    Plus, get a sneak peek at what 168 inches of snow really looks like and how to track real-time conditions on the National Weather Service website.

    Perfect for snow enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and curious locals alike—this episode unveils the science, stories, and passion behind one of Michigan’s most iconic winter regions.

    Learn more about the NWS in Gaylord at weather.gov/gaylord.

    Learn more about the area at gaylordmichigan.net.

    Learn more about Amy and Gonzo at facebook.com/behindthemitten.
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    10 Min.
  • Marquette Mountain Resort Podcast
    Jan 29 2026
    Marquette Mountain offers four season's of fun, through sun, and in the winter, tons and tons of snow. We talk with Kaet Johnson, the resort's general manager, about all there is to do and experience when you are here.

    First and foremost, you don't want to miss the very popular (and fun!) Winterfest and Rail Jam which is happening January 31 to February 1, 2026. Billed as a "marathon of mountain culture", this weekend will feature ski races, live music, and a freesyle rail jam. A highlight is the Torchlight Parade happening Saturday night, please be sure to register at the front desk so you can get your glow on. Also, don't miss FRESH oysters apres ski at the famous T-Bar, you probably won't be finding those anywhere else in the Yoop this weekend. Sunday, enjoy more skiing and racing.

    Orignally opened in 1957 as Cliff's Ridge, Marquette Mountain Resort is beloved by both locals and visiting tourists alike. In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding via three chair lifts and a rope tow. In the warmer months, bring your mountain bike and explore the trails, or just strap on your hiking boots. Anyway you experience MMR, you are sure to have a great time.

    https://www.marquettemountain.com/

    Find all the information you need to plan an amazing trip to the Marquette region at Travel Marquette.
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    10 Min.
  • Kelly Wolgamott: It's never too late to learn how to ski, plus Pure Michigan fragrances
    Jan 29 2026
    Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premier radio show and podcast
    Celebrating 11 years on the air.

    Description:
    Join John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman on "Behind the Mitten" as they welcome Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President of Pure Michigan. In this episode, they explore the wonders of Michigan's winter season, from skiing adventures at TreeTops Resort to the unique seasonal fragrances that capture the essence of the state. Discover how Pure Michigan is innovating to elevate its brand and learn about the exciting winter activities and events that make Michigan a premier destination. Whether you're a seasoned skier or new to the slopes, this episode offers insights and inspiration for embracing the beauty of Michigan's winter wonderland.

    Learn more about Pure Michigan at michigan.org

    Learn more seasonal fragrances at thearomalabs.com/pure-michigan

    Learn more about Behind the Mitten at facebook.com/behindthemitten

    Photo Courtesy of adventuremom/Pure Michigan
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    12 Min.
  • Find out why Gaylord is 'All Outdoors' all the time! (Jan. 17-18, 2026)
    Jan 19 2026
    Behind the Mitten - Michigan's premier radio show and podcast

    Season 11 of BTM continues from Michigan's "All Outdoors" capital - Gaylord. Yes, Gonzo and Amy spend a lot of time in Gaylord, but on this episode they take you to a few new places. Plus, they show you how to embace a Michigan winter.
    • Segment 1-Paul Beachnau, executive director of the Gaylord Tourism Bureau, and Christy Walcott, director of marketing and communications, meet Gonzo and Amy at Big Buck Brewery to talk about the area's best features, including two great downhill skiiing opportunities and plenty of outdoor options. In addition, Paul talks about how Big Buck owners Shawn and Kathy Smalley have resurrected one of the first craft breweries in Michigan.
    • Segment 2-Jim Keysor, metereologist in charge at the National Weather Service in Gaylord, drops some knowledge on Gonzo and Amy as to why the Gaylord area generates the most snowfall in the lower peninsula. Learn more at weather.gov/gaylord.
    • Segment 3-Ann Wagar, director of Forbush Corner in Frederic, just south of Gaylord off I-75, tells us all about what makes this Nordic Cross Country Ski trails one of the best in the midwest. Chewck out the trails, webcams, events (including those for snowshoers) at forbushcorner.com.
    • Segment 4-Paul Beachnau and Christy Walcott of the Gaylord Tourism Bureau return to tell us more about the area, including the popularity of winter rafting and how the area has become a hotspot for snowmobilers. In fact, Christy is a bit of a foodie herself (like Amy and Gonzo) and has created an exclusive "Snowbile Foodie Excursion" you can take throughout the Gaylord area.
    Learn more about the Gaylord area at gaylordmichigan.net.

    Also, Gonzo and Amy just launched a Substack page. Check it out at behindthemitten.substack.com.
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    45 Min.
  • Marquette Winter Fun: Heikki Lunta, Meijer State Games, UP200 and more (Jan. 10-11, 2026)
    Jan 12 2026
    Behind the Mitten - Michigan's premier radio show and podcast

    Season 11 begins with "Winter Fun in Marquette"! Co-hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman of Behind the Mitten take you behind the scenes to some of the Upper Peninsula's biggest events.
    • Segment 1-Susan Estler, Travel Marquette - travelmarquette.com
    • Segment 2 - Nate Heffron, City Manager for Negaunee, and member of the DDA, talks about the legend behind Heikki Lunta (Feb. 6-8) - travelmarquette.com/heikkilunta
    • Segment 3 - Julie Cullen, Director of the Meijer State Winter Games (Feb. 6-8) - stategamesofmichigan.com
    • Segment 4 - Ross Anthony, president of the UP200 dogsled race (Feb. 12-16) - up200.org
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    45 Min.
  • Old Town Lansing, Austin Bros. Beer Co., TC Curling Club and more (Jan. 3-4, 2026)
    Jan 12 2026
    Behind the Mitten - Michigan's premier radio show and podcast

    On this special show to open 2026, co-hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman of Behind the Mitten share a few of their favorite show segments from last year.

    Segment 1-Happy New Year from Gonzo and Amy
    Segment 2-Old Town Lansing - iloveoldtown.org
    Segment 3-Austin Bros. Beer Co. - austinbrosbeerco.com
    Segment 4-TC Curling Club - tccurling.org



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    45 Min.