Episodes

In this episode of "Making the Music Scene", host Dave Carlock talks with Mike Davis of the newly-formed Still Running band. You'll also hear a song from the Brian Randall Band.

What does a harbormaster do, and why does Southwest Michigan need one? In this episode, St. Joseph Harbormaster Mike Moran shares how he went from Coast Guard member and shipping enthusiast to coordinating activity in one of Lake Michigan's busiest small harbors. Learn how commercial freighters, tugboats, and research vessels move through the harbor, why ship watching has become a popular attraction, and the story behind the beloved "St. Joe-nuts" tradition. Whether you're a boating enthusiast, ...

Amy Birk, winemaker and operations manager at Domaine Berrien Cellars in Berrien Springs, shares how her background in chemistry led her to a career in winemaking, why Southwest Michigan's unique climate and soils produce exceptional grapes, and what makes Domaine Berrien's signature Syrah so special. She also highlights the winery's summer live music series and the 20th annual Art, Wine & Music Festival happening July 25. Learn how art, science, and a passion for local agriculture come together...

The free Shop & Shore Trolley is back for another summer in Southwest Michigan. Visit Southwest Michigan Executive Director Marcy Simpson shares what's new this season, where to ride, and how this fun, family-friendly transportation option makes it easy to explore the region. Find route details and more at swmichigan.org/trolley.

In this episode of Making the Music Scene, host Dave Carlock talks with local music veteran Mike Talbot. The episode also includes a performance of the song " This Heart's Been Around" by The Arkhoppers Band, featuring singer Jenna Mammina.

From Shakespeare and Agatha Christie to puppetry, comedy, and a classic Broadway musical, Twin City Players in St. Joseph is preparing for an exciting and wide-ranging 2026–27 season. In this episode, board president Scott Bradford shares details about the upcoming lineup, including Much Ado About Nothing set in the Roaring Twenties, Brave New World, Drinking Habits, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, and Fiddler on the Roof. Plus, hear about the long history behind one of Michigan’s oldest continuous...

A new kind of golf experience has arrived in Southwest Michigan. In this episode, we learn more about the new Wee Course at Harbor Shores Resort in Benton Harbor — a short course designed to make golf more approachable, affordable, and fun for everyone. Hear how golf legend Colin Montgomerie helped shape the course, why it’s perfect for beginners and experienced players alike, and how this community-focused space is already bringing together families, kids, leagues, and visitors of all ages. Ex...

For award-winning beer, wood-fired pizza, and one of the most inviting beer gardens in Southwest Michigan, just head to Haymarket Brewery and Taproom in Bridgman. We talk with owner Mike Gemma about what makes the Makers Trail experience so special, from craft lagers and nationally recognized porters to laid-back summer nights around the fire pits. Plus, hear why Southwest Michigan might just deserve its own pizza trail, and get details on Bridgman’s popular classic car show happening this summe...

From asparagus and strawberries to purple sweet corn and pumpkins, Alex’s Veggies has become a beloved stop for locals and visitors alike in Stevensville, Michigan. In this episode, we talk with fifth-generation farmer Alex Gallert about the family roots behind the farm stand, why Southwest Michigan’s produce culture is so special, and how an offbeat sense of humor helped turn Alex into a local social media favorite. Plus, hear about creative collaborations with area restaurants and the fresh fl...

Learn about The GhostLight Theatre in Benton Harbor, MI. Our Town runs April 16-May 2. Get tickets now!

For more than two decades, The Citadel Dance & Music Center has been a cornerstone of the Benton Harbor Arts District. In this episode, Citadel Director of Dance Lari Lawrence-Gist shares her passion for dance as both an art form and a universal human language. From training young dancers to directing more than 100 productions, Lari discusses the role of movement in building community, fostering creativity, and telling stories. She also previews an exciting season of performances, including stud...

In this episode of Making the Music Scene, host Dave Carlock speaks with musician Rodney Mills.

In this episode of Making the Music Scene, host Dave Carlock talks with Southwest Michigan musician Bob Fowler.

In this episode of Making the Music Scene, host Dave Carlock speaks with Susan Dietrich-Reed, Executive Director and Director of Music of the Citadel Dance & Music Center in Benton Harbor.

Learn about musician Steve Reed.

Learn about musician Bill Schnell.

Aaron DePue never planned on a career in brewing. With a degree in graphic design and a passion for homebrewing, he found his way into the craft beer industry almost by accident. Today, he's the brewer at Lake Time Brewing & Spirits in Bridgman, where he's creating everything from easy-drinking lagers to barrel-aged stouts and award-winning Belgian-style ales. Aaron shares his journey through breweries across the country, the creative freedom of building a beer program from the ground up, and wh...

Noah Hopkins, co-owner, brewer, and bartender at Fulcra Brewing Company in Sawyer, shares his journey from the coffee industry to opening one of Southwest Michigan's newest breweries. Drawing on years of experience with specialty coffee and beverage production, Noah discusses the surprising similarities between coffee and beer, his philosophy of creating balanced and approachable brews, and the community-focused atmosphere that makes Fulcra a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Plus, ...

Learn about musician Jimmy Phillips and Jimmy & the Mortals.

Learn about The GhostLight Theatre.

Learn about musician Char Jones.

Learn about ARS Gallery/ARS Arts and Culture Center

Learn about musician Char Jones.

Learn about musician Dan Geib.