Stateside On Air

A special presentation of On Hand, answering your questions about all things Michigan. Why do we call ourselves “Michiganders?” Is it really that pricey to be rescued at Sleeping Bear Dunes? And is Michigan a hotspot for black squirrels?

A look back at the year's economy, as experienced by Michiganders. Also, a long- awaited contract for teachers in Grand Rapids’ Public Schools. And our series The Dish is back! Chef Yumna Jawad has some ideas for making holiday kitchen work more manageable.

University of Michigan head football coach Sherrone Moore was fired with cause this week, and then promptly arrested. What happened?

A look at the new cannabis tax and its potential effects on the marijuana industry. Plus, researchers share finds from an Indigenous archeological site in the Upper Peninsula.

Immigrants detained in Michigan are bringing habeas corpus lawsuits against the federal government, a wintry medicinal plant blooms in Michigan winters, and federal funding cuts are hampering statewide programs that support farmers’ mental health.

First, a mother's determination to keep her son's education going behind bars. Plus, more on the geomagnetic storm over Michigan (and what it has to do with the Northern Lights). Then, the co-founder of band Destroy All Monsters. Also, a look back to a sliced-bread ban in Michigan, followed by a listener reaction to the latest On Hand episode.

Will the Detroit 3 automakers take up the president’s suggestion to make microcars? Also, the flavors of indigenous survivance. Our series The Dish visits Raphael Foods. And a fond farewell to a SE Michigan business forming an anchor for generations: Downtown Home and Garden.

Listen in for an update on the latest data center controversies in Michigan, a song for feeling blue in December, and a deep dive into the unusual hobby of amateur submarines.

Another county in Michigan begins implementation of AI in processing non-emergency calls. Also, a discussion with one of the voice actors of the Anishinaabemowin dub of "Star Wars: A New Hope."

Michigan State University hires a new football coach, a Detroit-based food journalist talks about using SNAP benefits, and a biology professor discusses how wildlife survives Michigan winters.

First, a review of statewide changes to sex education standards. Then, a Yooper's long-time devotion to sunrises. Plus, Michigan Public's On Hand took a deep dive into why Kalamazoo shows up in so many songs.

We broke down what's working for the Detroit Pistons right now. Also, the Keynote Sisters talk about musical evolution within a family. And we talked about the upcoming game between the University of Michigan and the Ohio State University with one of the players hoping to secure a win for the Wolverines.

We discussed recent changes at Ford Motor Company and the rivalry between marching bands at U-M and OSU. And, the latest episode of The Dish.

First, more on environment-friendly changes recently made to animal farm waste disposal laws. Then, we heard about the escalation of demonstrations led by two different conservative political candidates outside of a Dearborn city council meeting.

We learned about what food prices can tell us about the economy, sustainable products for curly hair, and a fatal car accident involving a Ford test vehicle that is still unresolved a year later.

First, with government subsidies hanging on a balance, some Michiganders are worried about affording health insurance; we found out more. Then, Michigan author Angeline Boulley spoke with us about her third novel, set in a fictional tribal community in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Also, Michigan Public's On Hand looked into the history of The Game and the long term college rivalry behind it.

We learned about the increase in measles cases in Windsor, an invasive species from the Great Lakes wreaking havoc in Japan, what’s behind the “muck” in Lake St. Clair, how wealth inequality destabilizes the world, and indigenous traditions for harvesting wild rice in Michigan.

We discussed Rx Kids coming to Wayne County, a Detroit high school that provides bikes for its students, how cyanotype printing changed how one writer sees her photographs,and a new jazz record of an old live WUOM performance from Griot Galaxy.

First, more on Michigan State University pausing admissions to 27 graduate programs. Then, a journalist for the Detroit Free Press spoke about Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook's first public remarks since President Trump attempted to fire her from the Board of Governors.

This show features conversations about conserving the Huron River Watershed in a time of flux, surviving a plane ejection at 695 miles per hour, and a new book about how Black Americans have expressed the psychological scars of slavery.

First, some clarifications on food aid during the government shutdown, followed by one Michigander SNAP recipient's story. Then, a survivor of a fishing boat's capsizing, caused by the same storm which sunk the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, shares his memory of that day. Plus, Michigan Public's On Hand featured a listener's tale of a supernatural encounter.

Changes to Medicaid and rising insurance premiums could major have ripple effects for Michigan's health care providers — and their patients. Meanwhile, food pantries are seeing an influx in people as the timeline for November's SNAP benefits remains murky. And, a remembrance of West Michigan football star Marshawn Kneeland, who died this week at the age of 24.

This episode included segments about SNAP recipients struggling with the pause on benefits, the economic impact of Michigan’s 12 federally recognized Indigenous tribes, vaccine research from Henry Ford Health, and the historic election of Mary Sheffield as mayor of Detroit.

First, an analysis of Detroit's mayoral election. Then, a review of various school funding issues that were on the Michigan ballot. Plus, a lot of eyes have been on New York's mayoral election; we learned more about the effect of the "Mamdani moment" in Michigan.

On Election Day, we learn about the history of Michigan’s original constitution. Then, some features from Interlochen Public Radio about a whitefish hotspot and H-2A worker wages. And two women share their journeys of infant loss and love.

First, more on the potential construction of an OpenAI data center in Saline township. Also, a recent study exposed abuses of Michigan farmworkers. Plus, Chad Smith, the drummer of indie rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers, announced a scholarship for University of Michigan marching band musicians.

Senator Gary Peters on what’s needed to break the deadlock on Federal government funding. Then, a piece of 1980s-fabulous Michigan feminist history - we’re rolling with the Skate Witches. And our podcast series On Hand goes spooky - on the hunt for the Michigan Dogman.

We discussed trade talks with Canada, cuts to SNAP benefits, childcare costs, and Michigan’s recently passed education budget. Also, tune in for the story of one high school’s attempt to ban Elvis haircuts in October of 1956.

First, more on a town hall addressing the neo-Nazi content made by a Maple Valley township treasurer's husband. Then, two specialists weighed in on the support needs of families who have suffered pregnancy or infant loss.

An MSU professor joins us to discuss the stakes for Detroit in next week’s mayoral election. A woman whose boyfriend was arrested by ICE shares their experience. A northern Michigan author discusses her new spooky book set in the Upper Peninsula. And, listener responses to On Hand.

First, more on how recent SNAP benefit cuts have affected Michigan food banks. Then, a Michigan-born poet's new collection of poetry covering her struggles with endometriosis, reproductive health and infertility. Also, a lecturer talked about AI use at universities. Plus, On Hand featured a listener's story with the Michigan left on the pod.

Former Detroit Piston great Chauncey Billups' arrest and the NBA’s problem with legalized gambling. Then, a century of the Detroit Red Wings and what’s ahead this season. And Grayling, Michigan drops a key public health intervention.

How Michigan residents are pushing back against proposed data centers in their backyards. A debut novel about friendship and addiction set in Michigan. And, how the Big Beautiful Bill has changed Michigan.

First, experts from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy spoke to the importance of the newly declared "Microplastics Awareness Week." Then, a Michigan-born recipe developer and cook discussed her new book, Lebanese Baking, a more-than 100 recipe tribute to the flavors and techniques of Lebanon.

Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources explains why so many deer are dying in southeast Michigan. An archivist with the state discusses how the opening of the Erie Canal kick-started Michigan’s population growth. And, an interview with jazz legend Herbie Hancock.

First, a look at the four senatorial candidates looking to fill Gary Peters' seat next year. Then, more on a new film about a feminist free speech pioneer who challenged censorship under the Comstock Act in the 1890s. Plus, Michigan Public's On Hand took a deep dive into the history of the famous (in Michigan, at least) Michigan left.

A conversation with human rights activist Keshia Thomas about the 1996 Ku Klux Klan march in Ann Arbor that changed her life forever. Plus, The Dish team gives us the inside scoop (or should we say ladle) on where to get authentic French crepes in Northern Michigan.

A recap of the Detroit mayoral debate last night, previewing a poetry event tomorrow in Hamtramck, and hearing from an MSU student born in Palestine.

First, some Michiganders are expecting cuts to their food benefits because of funding lapses from government shutdown. Then, a Michigan-born pediatrician's new book details her family's experience with her own daughter's terminal genetic condition.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has appointed a new chief climate officer. The University of Michigan is hosting a month-long arts festival. A local podcast provides some advice about making your bed. A poet discusses his first novel. And this week’s episode of On Hand, a Michigan Public podcast.

Conversations with Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud and Wayne State University football coach Tyrone Wheatley. Plus, the Grand Traverse Butterfly House and Bug Zoo, and the details of a powwow happening in Detroit on Indigenous People's Day.

A state representative’s strange attendance record. This year’s line up at Detroit Storyfest. A short feature about a Traverse City artist embracing his dyslexia. And the 50 year anniversary of the KISS concert at a Cadillac school.

First, we visited the memorial held for the tragic Grand Blanc shooting. Then, we heard about the restoration of the Beaver Island lighthouse from some historic preservationists. Also, a bit more about Traverse City's weekly pinball tournament

Today, one Michigander talks about her family’s losses in the October 7 Hamas attacks in Israel. Then, how cuts to SNAP education programs are hitting Northern Michigan. And, an appreciation of James Baldwin from one Michigan scholar who tracked the writer’s personal relationships.

First, an expert weighs in on how social media has shaped the content and tone of the conversation about Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Then, more about an upcoming book giving new context to the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Plus, a little on Ironwood's Plaidurday festival, a celebration of UP culture. Also, a new episode of On Hand begs the important question "Is saying pop passé?"

Friday on Stateside, details in the state Legislature's $80 billion budget plan. The budget includes a new 24% tax on cannabis wholesalers to fund road repairs, as well as a slight increase on spending on K-12 education.

First, what to know about all those data centers proposed in Washtenaw County and beyond. Then, our 2025 intern cohort shares their project about deer overpopulation in Michigan. And, the College For Creative Studies in Detroit launches a new fashion management program.

First, an Episcopal Bishop on the role of faith in the wake of gun violence. Then, more on the discovery of the wreck of the SS Carruthers, the last of the "Big 8" shipwrecks to be found.

First, a look at how proposed taxes on legal cannabis could impact Michigan’s industry. Then, Michigan football great Brian Griese talks about how sports can be more sustainable. And, how Michigan State University’s cooperative extension gives farmers guidance on federal immigration policy.

We opened Stateside with a debrief on the horrific shooting and arson at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Then, some information on the new state budget deal. Also, more on a new book recounting the life of a black disabled woman killed by police violence and the activism her death inspired. Plus, a bit about the factors behind the resignation of Wayne State's President Kimberly Andrews Espy and a dangerous story about Sleeping Bear Dunes' famous Overlook #9.

A legal scholar’s perspective on the ways public officials have reacted to political speech after Charlie Kirk’s murder.

Today, details of a legal battle involving a collective of Michigan wineries, a conversation with musician Rhiannon Giddens, and an overview of Michiganders' bottle return habits.

First, a conversation with parents on how Corewell Health's step backwards on gender-affirming care affects their families. Then, a residential artist at the University of Michigan walks us through her upcoming book on country/folk music, race and class in American history.

How an MSU law professor became general counsel for the FCC. A poet shares his latest chapbook. And two authors share stories of the foods and drinks that have shaped Michigan's culture and the traditions we carry on today.

First, a history professor gave us historical perspectives on the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Then, an insight into beekeeping therapy, PTSD and their relationship to the Farm Bill. Plus, we caught up with a search and rescue ranger on whether or not a Sleeping Bear Dunes rescue really costs $3,000.

Within this episode of Stateside, powerful foundations call for an end to political violence. Then, we visit a remote inn in the U.P. that combines fine farm-to-table dining with the relaxed setting of the deep woods. And we hear from a poet whose work teases apart her listening relationship with Nina Simone.

On this installment of Stateside, the path to formal unionization for Michigan State University’s faculty. Then, we remember the legacy of Lansing’s hometown hero of the ring, Sabu. Plus, what one author uncovered through the oral histories of Michigan’s revolutionary rock band, the MC5.

First, a deeper look at the meeting of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors taking place today. Also, more on the PBS children's television character created in Grand Rapids.

Playwright and Hedwig and the Angry Inch star John Cameron Mitchell talks about guest-teaching at the University of Michigan. And Dearborn’s chief public health officer discusses the city’s project to calm traffic and reduce air pollution.

First, new research on the Rx Kids initiative, an unconditional cash prescription program during pregnancy and infancy, tracking outcomes for families who participated in Flint. Then, a defense of "Michiganian" with Michigan Public's On Hand. Plus, an interview with a teen journalist who already claims five years of experience in the field.

What happens with public works are sold to private companies at a heavily discounted rate?Then, the discovery of a rare wildflower that only lives in one tiny corner of the Great Lakes.And, we revisit a conversation with Detroit visual artist Tyree Guyton, known for the Heidelberg Project.

We marked the 100-year anniversary of Dr. Ossian Sweet’s act of self defense that led to his acquittal in an historic murder case that highlighted the anti-Black violence of redlining in 1920s Detroit. And we visited Kalamazoo’s first-ever city mural festival.

First, trans advocates plan to protest Michigan Medicine's decision to drop gender-affirming care for youth. Then, a new report found Michigan's utilities are the worst in the nation when it comes to restoring electricity. Also, advice on moving from The Best Advice Show and how to start a micro-garden.

First, why Michigan universities are seeing a decline in international enrollment and the consequences of that drop. Then, the author of a nonfiction book about amateur submariners discusses his in-depth research. And Michigan arts organizations discuss how they’re coping with federal funding cuts.

First, we heard more about reports that Michigan is sharing voter roll information with the Department of Justice. Then, we learned about the Music House Museum and how federal cuts threaten its survival. Also, a participating artist spoke with us about a Grand Rapids ArtPrize exhibition. Plus, we dove into the history of the word "Michigander" with Michigan Public's new podcast, On Hand. Have any burning questions about the things that make Michigan, Michigan? Submit them to the pod here!

First, what we know about the ICE arrest of an Ann Arbor father outside his child's school. Then, the life and legacy of Mother Waddles, an activist who devoted her life to feeding Detroit's hungry. Plus, an Iranian journalist speaks on the political activism of Iranian women following the police killing of Mahsa Amini in 2022.

There's been a lot of confusion around new federal guidance on COVID vaccines. We broke down what you need to know about the availability of the shot this fall. Also, the debate over allowing off-road vehicles into wilderness areas. And we check in with some of the roller derby teams converging in Lansing this weekend for Skate Wars.

Annual proficiency testing in Michigan schools shows reading scores continue to slide. Michigan resentences inmates who received life without parole as juveniles. And this week’s episode of It’s Just Politics.

Detroit’s mayoral race shines a light on the city’s long-struggling school system. Points North provides a history lesson about the Michigan and Ohio border dispute. And the latest novel from a best-selling author focuses on the Michigan foster care system.

Michigan football kicks off a new era this season. Can the Wolverines put it together with a mix of veteran talent and rising stars? Then, as MSU students begin the school year they may notice changes with on campus bussing - no drivers. And, Michigan comic Scoochie Boochie talks about his stand-up comedy and rap music.

An academic perspective on President Donald Trump’s move to eject Michigander Lisa Cook at the Federal Reserve. A profile of the man responsible for a surprising percentage of Detroit’s commercial signage. And, a conversation with Michigan Public’s retiring environment reporter, Lester Graham.

Restoration work continues in northern Michigan after the March ice storms. An entomologist discovers a bee species thought to be extinct here in Michigan. And this week’s episode of It’s Just Politics.

President Donald Trump said he fired an MSU professor from the Federal Reserve Board of Governors despite having no legal authority to do so. Also, Michigan Medicine has ended its gender-affirming medical care for transgender youth. Then, how federal funding cuts to the arts have affected productions in Michigan.

First, an expert from the University of Michigan weighed in on the potentially dangerous effects of the Trump administration's changes to personnel in the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Then, we heard from a curator of a new materials exhibition at Michigan State University detailing campus life during the Vietnam War. Plus, the Director of the Vatican Observatory, born a Detroiter, gave an inside look into the Vatican's relationship with the stars.

Stateside checks in with a cherry farmer as the season wraps up, learns about why a Lansing resident chose to self-deport to Kenya, and chats with Amanda Uhle about her new memoir.

ICE detained a transgender Ypsilanti woman who has lived in Michigan for over a decade. An expert weighs in on Kellogg’s recent agreement with Texas to remove artificial food dyes from its products. That time a Michigan county tried to ban wearing swimsuits in cars and, this month’s episode of The Dish.

What to expect from U-M and MSU in the upcoming football season, a Lansing poet’s arts project in mid-Michigan, and this week’s episode of It’s Just Politics, featuring Pete Buttigieg.

Some Michigan teachers are taking on summer side hustles as a result of low pay in schools. Then, how Congress's major tax and spending plan affects rural hospitals. Plus, a new book created for older elementary students reading below grade-level.

First, a University of Michigan researcher spoke with us about the results of an Ann Arbor program providing a guaranteed monthly stipend to participants. Plus, we caught up with a sumo champion from Grand Rapids who will be representing the US at the World Sumo Championships this September. Also, a look at women's rugby in the advent of the 10th women's rugby World Cup.

Insights on immigrant and infant health in Washtenaw County, details of a Grand-Rapids based program to provide monthly cash payments to mothers with low income, and a look back at the Jefferson Beach Amusement Park.

Ford says a new mid-sized electric truck is on the way, priced at just $30,000. Michigan teachers are earning thousands of dollars less than the national average, and a recent study says Michiganders want to pay them more. A writer and translator drifts from the Adriatic to the Aegean in the upcoming novel by a professor at Wayne State.

After the SanDisk Corporation axed plans for a facility in Flint, we discussed whether there's a future for semiconductor manufacturing in Michigan. Also, a new book explores how, for decades, policies have undermined Black home ownership in America—zooming in on Detroit.

First, a look at the debate over Grand Rapids' climate plan. Then, a Detroit-based artist talks about her woven tapestries, created with a digital loom. Plus, how community service and fly fishing come together for juvenile offenders along the Au Sable River. And, how the face of mobile home lot ownership is changing.

What to make of a private meeting between Governor Whitmer and President Trump; from our friends at Interlochen Public Radio’s Points North, a microorganism that conducts electricity and what might happen if our devices were alive; and with Michigan Public’s own Beenish Ahmed, the short story collection about Muslim-American life that won her a Kresge Artist Fellowship.

On Stateside today: A cannabusiness lawyer. Michiganders who once rallied to save a ferret's life. Mental health care and a stabbing at a Walmart in Northern Michigan.

A northern Michigan black bear had to be sedated to remove a plastic lid that was stuck on its neck for two years. Also, how labor statistics are recorded and their significance, and where "rule of law" stands in 2025 under the Trump administration.

Guest host Zoe Clark hears from one Michigan official who is calling for more action on Canadian wildfires. And, learn more about the inaugural Mini Black Zine Fair happening weekend.

With booming supply and plateauing demand, the marijuana industry in Michigan may be at a tipping point.

South Haven is restarting its lifeguard program following 19 drownings in Lake Michigan so far this summer. Also, a beloved Ann Arbor garden center is closing after more than 100 years of business. Then, a look back at Detroit's mayoral runs.

The state is trying to clear up confusion around COVID vaccine coverage for children and pregnant women after new federal guidance. We talked to Michigan Public's health reporter about what you need to know. Then, a new program that delivers breast milk from incarcerated mothers to their babies at home. And, we look at the toll of data centers on Michigan’s fresh water resources.

Guest host Stephen Henderson covers a proposed cell phone ban in Michigan schools, voter turnout in the Detroit mayoral primary, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s future.

In 2015, Michigan set a ten-year goal to rank among the top 10 states for education. The state has poured billions of dollars into its education system, the 9th largest investment of any state. But a decade later, Michigan has not only failed to increase its scores — the state now regularly ranks within the bottom 10 states in the nation.

First, a debrief on U.S.-Canada tariffs and what they might mean for Michigan. Also, a reflection on the 50th anniversary of Jimmy Hoffa's disappearance and the theories it engendered. Then, a Michigan attorney and activist who joined a Gaza-bound freedom flotilla speaks on famine in the Gaza strip.

Updates on the stabbing of 11 people at a Walmart in Traverse City on Saturday. Also, the last surviving member of a widely-known family of quadruplets from Lansing has died. Then, a native Michigan author's latest book traverses parallel dimensions as the characters contend with the variants of life.

An update on the blockchain real estate company RealT doing business in Detroit. Women at Huron Valley Correctional Facility speak out about their living conditions, and a lawsuit against the state. A Detroit artist reflects on what it means to make art in a time of automation and anxiety.

We got an update on the blockchain real estate company RealT—which is facing legal action over their business in Detroit. Also, women at Huron Valley Correctional Facility say they are facing unsafe living conditions and have filed a lawsuit against the state. And, we spoke with a Detroit artist reflects on what it means to make art in a time of automation and anxiety.

Consumer confidence declined through the first half of 2025, according to a new U-M survey. Also, a group in the Upper Peninsula is organizing to preserve the memory of labor icon “Big Annie." Plus, we checked in with a fourth-generation Michigan farmer as he navigates uncertainty in the agricultural sector.

General Motors’s profits drop as tariff costs climb. A potential rule change could affect homeless people who use roadside rest areas. A professor makes the case for why Michigan lawmakers are considering banning cell phones in K-12 schools.

Siena Heights University is set to close in 2026. An MLive reporter talked about the trend of small Michigan colleges and universities closing. Then, a nonprofit has partnered with the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians to collect and distribute cancer drugs to those in need. Also, a Michigan Law professor talks about his book on the powers of Congress.

First, an exploration of foreign land ownership in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Then, a new take on brain imaging from University of Michigan researcher Changyang Linghu. Also, a deep-dive into the history of the sixth Great Lake that almost was with the Points North podcast.