S3, E25

Every summer, thousands of athletes—and the friends and family cheering them on—make their way to Shores & Islands Ohio for one of the region's premier sporting events: Ironman 70.3 Ohio. In this episode of The SHORE Line, we learn what's new for this year's event, including the expanded Ironman Village, family-friendly activities throughout race weekend, the IM Local program featuring discounts and special offers from area businesses, and everything spectators need to know to enjoy race day with S&IO Sports Tourism Manager, Jon Limber. Then, we hear from two inspiring athletes preparing to take on the challenge - one for the first time and the other a returning fan of the race day experience in Sandusky. Whether you're racing, volunteering, cheering from the course, or simply curious about what makes Ironman 70.3 Ohio so special, this episode offers an inside look at the determination, community, and inspiration that define this unforgettable weekend. Get hyped for the weekend at IRONMAN.com/races/im703-ohio and SHORESandISLANDS.com/ironman.  June’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S3, E24 

Whether you're planning a trip to Put-in-Bay or love learning about Lake Erie, this episode is packed with reasons to add the Aquatic Visitors Center to your must-visit list. We sit down with Steve Norton, manager of the Aquatic Visitors Center, to explore this free, family-friendly destination operated by the Ohio Division of Wildlife. Learn how the historic fish hatchery has been transformed into an engaging visitor experience featuring interactive exhibits, native Lake Erie fish, hands-on learning opportunities, and fascinating stories about the lake's incredible ecosystem. We also discuss the exciting renovations that brought new life to the facility, and Steve offers a few surprising facts about the wildlife that calls our Great Lake home. Whether you're visiting with kids, arriving by boat, casting a fishing line, or simply looking for something unique to do on the island, you'll discover why the Aquatic Visitors Center deserves a place on every Put-in-Bay itinerary. Learn more at OhioDNR.gov. June’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S3, E23

What better way to celebrate America's 250th anniversary than with an unforgettable road trip? On this episode of The SHORE Line, we sit down with Jason Werling who, alongside his two adult sons, traveled the entire length of U.S. Route 250—from Sandusky, Ohio, to Richmond, Virginia. Inspired by the America 250 celebration, the U.S. 250 Road Trip with the Werling Boys became much more than a multi-state journey. It was an opportunity to reconnect as a family, explore the history and hidden gems found along one of America's great highways, and experience the country one mile at a time. Hear how the adventure came together, what it was like to retrace a memorable family journey, and the fascinating places they discovered along the way. This episode will have you ready to hit the road. See the full itinerary and photos from the road at Facebook.com/250roadtrip. June’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S3, E22

What happens when a lifelong connection to Lakeside, a passion for STEM education, and a workshop full of cutting-edge technology come together? You get LEMI Labs. On this episode of The SHORE Line, Jill sits down with Andy Bruening, founder of Lakeside Education Maker and Invention (LEMI) Labs, to discuss the new hands-on learning space opening in the heart of Lakeside Chautauqua. Andy shares how his background in science education, robotics, and digital fabrication inspired him to create a place where curiosity and creativity can thrive. LEMI Labs gives participants of all ages the opportunity to learn by doing. Andy explains how maker-centered learning encourages problem-solving, innovation, and confidence while making technology approachable and fun. He also offers a preview of summer programs, family maker nights, and opportunities for both kids and adults to explore new skills. Learn more and sign up for programs at www.LEMI.space. June’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S3, E21 

On this episode of The SHORE Line, we return to Firelands Winery in Sandusky to catch up with General Manager Tobi Guseman on everything new happening at one of the region’s longtime favorite gathering spots. From the new 1880 Bourbon Bar and updated food menu to fresh wine offerings and redesigned outdoor spaces, there’s plenty for guests to discover this season. We also talk about “Chard in the Yard,” a laid-back picnic-style experience designed for relaxing afternoons on the winery’s beautiful grounds, plus we dive into the fascinating metal-detecting project currently taking place across the winery’s 70-acre property and the historic relics being uncovered along the way. Tobi also shares details about fun, upcoming events including Christmas in July, plant workshops, special dining experiences, and a unique car club. Whether you’re planning a relaxing afternoon, a seasonal getaway, or your next local adventure, this episode is full of reasons to visit Firelands Winery.  June’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S3, E20 

Summer travel season is officially underway, and this week on The SHORE Line, we’re heading out onto Lake Erie with one of the captains behind one of Shores & Islands Ohio’s most iconic experiences—the Jet Express. Jill sits down with Captain Jackson Ives (who also happens to be a pilot and the company’s security officer!) for a behind-the-scenes look at life at the helm. From the path to becoming a captain and the extensive safety training required, to how weather impacts operations on Lake Erie and what a typical day looks like for the crew, this episode offers an insider perspective on island transportation. You’ll also hear about the evolution of Jet Express, what makes the passenger experience so unique, this season’s service details, and even a few memorable stories from life on the lake. Whether you’re a longtime rider or planning your first island adventure, this episode is your ticket aboard! The Jet Express offers service to Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island from Port Clinton and Sandusky – plan your trip at Jet-Express.com. May episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by the family-friendly and always dog-friendly Dog House at the Round House Bar – TheRoundHouseBar.com!

S3, E19 As we look forward to summer on the shores, this episode of The SHORE Line takes you inside the recent Shores & Islands Ohio Annual Meeting. More than 300 hospitality and tourism partners gathered to celebrate the organization’s 2025 accomplishments, honor industry leaders, and mark 20 years of collaboration between Erie and Ottawa counties, while also looking to the future. While at the event, Jill sat down with eight Shores & Islands Ohio partners for quick conversations about how they first became involved with the organization, what value they see in that partnership, and their hopes for the future of the region. From tourism attractions and local businesses to community organizations, these voices offer a snapshot of the passion, collaboration, and shared vision that continue to shape Shores & Islands Ohio as a destination. Learn more about the organization and its accomplishments at SHORESandISLANDS.com/about-us/ May episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by the family-friendly and always dog-friendly Dog House at the Round House Bar – TheRoundHouseBar.com!

S3, E18 

This week on The SHORE Line, we dive into the literary side of Shores & Islands Ohio with award-winning local author Brenda Haas, whose debut novel Finding Sutton’s Choice is rooted in the charm, complexity, and close-knit spirit of Lakeside Chautauqua. Brenda shares her journey from journalism to fiction, how life in the Shores & Islands region helped shape her storytelling, and why small-town communities make such rich settings for meaningful stories. We also explore the deeper themes at the heart of the novel—family secrets, second chances, memory, and the many ways we define “family.” Brenda opens up about why Alzheimer’s disease and caregiving became an important part of the novel, with the hope of raising awareness around a condition that affects millions of families. Get Finding Sutton’s Choice and find Brenda at BrendaHaas.com. May episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by the family-friendly and always dog-friendly Dog House at the Round House Bar – TheRoundHouseBar.com!

S3, E17

Summer is just around the corner, and this episode of The SHORE Line is packed with everything that makes the season on Put-in-Bay so special. Jill sits down with Anita McCann, longtime island business owner and part of a multi-generational family behind some of the island’s most beloved spots, including the iconic Round House Bar. Anita shares the story behind their family’s deep roots on the island, what it means to carry on a legacy of hospitality, and how they continue to evolve with new offerings like the Dog House at the Round House—a family- and dog-friendly patio experience featuring quick bites, specialty hot dogs, and even treats for your four-legged friends. The conversation also highlights major entertainment milestones, including the incredible decades-long runs of fan-favorite performers, and gives listeners a sneak peek at what’s ahead for the 2026 season. May episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by the family-friendly and always dog-friendly Dog House at the Round House Bar – TheRoundHouseBar.com!

S3, E16 

On this episode of The SHORE Line, we take the show on the road to explore one of the Shores & Islands region’s most innovative spaces. Broadcasting from Work Space Sandusky, Jill and Meaghan sit down with Community Manager Jessie Opfer to talk about the growing impact of co-working in our coastal communities. From flexible workspaces and meeting rooms to a full-scale content creation studio, Jessie shares how Work Space is serving locals, visitors, and businesses alike—while fostering connection, creativity, and economic growth. Plus, we look ahead to a packed May filled with signature events like Biggest Week in American Birding, Walleye Festival, and more. If you’re curious about new ways to work, gather, and experience the region, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what makes Shores & Islands Ohio a great place to visit, live, and work. Book your tour or day pass at WorkSpaceSandusky.com. April episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau. Plan your next Everyday Island Getaway to Put-in-Bay at VisitPutinBay.com.