In this episode, Dave Carlock talks with musician John Schneider.

Host Dave Carlock catches up with singer - songwriter Lou Emery.

Captain Megan Cairns of Tall Ship MJ, the region's resident tall ship based in St. Joseph, shares how a lifelong passion for sailing led her to bring this unique maritime experience to Southwest Michigan. Learn about the ship's rich history, its traditional design inspired by vessels of the 1860s, and the unforgettable experience of sailing Lake Michigan under wind power alone.

The conversation also explores Tall Ship MJ's mission beyond tourism. Through youth crew training programs, educational science sails and hands-on opportunities for local students, the ship helps introduce the next generation to maritime careers and Great Lakes stewardship.

In this episode we chat with Brian Conybeare of the Harbor Impact Foundation about the return of the Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament to downtown Benton Harbor.

Taking place June 26–28 2026, this family-friendly event will transform Riverview Drive into "Mackerville," featuring dozens of outdoor basketball courts, hundreds of teams, food trucks, vendors, entertainment and appearances by the Detroit Pistons Extreme Team. Organizers expect thousands of players and spectators to attend the weekend-long celebration of basketball and community.

Brian also shares how proceeds from the event support the Harbor Impact Foundation's mission of providing young athletes with access to basketball training, travel opportunities, mentorship and recruiting guidance.

What happens when a world-touring rock star falls in love with Michigan wine country? We talk with Zach Filkins, founding guitarist of OneRepublic and co-owner of Filkins Vineyards in Coloma. Zach shares the story of how he and his wife, Lindsay, discovered Southwest Michigan's wine scene, purchased the former Karma Vista property, and transformed it into Filkins Vineyards. The conversation explores Michigan-grown wines, what makes their Sauvignon Blanc stand out, and why the future of Michigan wine is about creating its own identity rather than imitating other regions.

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, a maritime history buff, or simply curious about life on the waterfront, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the activity that keeps St. Joseph's harbor moving.

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 in every bottle.

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.