Behind the Mitten

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.

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.

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

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.

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 

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

On this special recap of 2025, co-hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman of Behind the Mitten share some of this season's most memorable moments.

• We kick off with show with an interview from the kitchen of Jen's Hen House in St. Helen,
• followed by the intriguing job of a Great Lakes Pilot,
• followed by a great market (known for their feta cheese) in Houghton Lake.
• Finally, we wrap up with a heartwarming conversation with Dominick Miller from Mackinac State Historic Parks, offering a unique glimpse into life on Mackinac Island throughout the seasons.

Don't miss this engaging episode filled with adventure and insight!

Learn more about Mackinac State Historic Parks at mackinacisland.org.

Cover Photo courtesy of:

It's Wonderful Photography by Sara Wright 

Learn more at itswonderfulphotography.com

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman celebrate a decade of exploring Michigan's attractions, focusing on winter activities and local events.

They highlight the importance of supporting local restaurants during the winter season and discuss the diverse winter experiences available in Gaylord, Crystal Mountain, and Grand Traverse Resort. The episode emphasizes the joy of embracing winter, from cross-country skiing to festive markets, encouraging listeners to explore and enjoy Michigan's winter wonders.

Learn about My Winter Trails and Learn to Ski Day (Jan. 10) at mywintertrails.org.

Learn more about Gaylord at gaylordmichigan.net.

Learn more about Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville at crystalmountain.com.

Learn more about Grand Traverse Resort in Traverse City at grandtraverseresort.com.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman celebrate 10 years of exploring Michigan's Great Lakes.

They discuss winter activities in Michigan, focusing on Treetops Resort in Gaylord, which offers skiing, snowboarding, and family-friendly fun. The episode features interviews with Barry Owens, the general manager, and other team members, highlighting the resort's commitment to creating lasting memories, local culinary experiences, and new winter activities, including the introduction of a mascot, Mama Bear.

Listeners are encouraged to embrace winter and explore the beauty of Michigan's winter landscape.

Book your stay at Treetops Resort at treetops.com.

Or call for a reservation at 866-348-5249.

Join co-hosts Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez on "Behind the Mitten," where they explore the vibrant offerings of Michigan's hidden gems. This week, dive into the tropical paradise of Gun Lake Casino Resort in Wayland, conveniently located off US 131 between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Discover the Wawyé Oasis, where it's always a balmy 80 degrees with over 4,000 tropical plants and a swim-up bar. You staycation in paradise also allows you to indulge in the excitement of slot and table games. With a variety of dining options and 250 luxurious rooms in the hotel and spa, Gun Lake promises an unforgettable escape. Tune in for an insider's look at this unique destination!

Learn more about Gun Lake Casino Resort at gunlakecasino.com.