I'm doing a test of some interesting technology that we're working on here at Blubrry. Recently, we changed our pricing plan to be hours-based versus megabytes-based, so you get X number of hours per month instead of X number of megabytes. This allows you to upload video or audio, and I'm testing the part of the system that encodes the video to what's called HLS. I uploaded an MP4 for this episode, which is a video file, and our transcoder encoded it in HLS video and also in MP3. Those of you on audio platforms, listen to the MP3. Those of you who are on platforms that will support HLS video will be able to see the video.

Thanks for indulging me on this test, and I will have a regular episode out in the next week or so, I hope. It'll be the traditional long rambling episodes that I'm well known for.

– Brett Butt follows with a nostalgic anecdote about growing up before the Internet and World Wide Web, and remembering early video games like Pac-Man, Asteroids, Wizard of War, Scrambled, and Defender. He jokes about wishing for something people now have.

– Mike Dell then introduces himself (“Like Dell’s World… That’s me”) and frames the episode as covering two major topics: technology (how tech works and is used) and personal updates. He notes customer service issues he’d complained about previously have not improved.

– Personal updates: – He reports attending multiple recent funerals: mentions having been to “three funerals in the last six months, or two,” and that he’s about to go to another in Detroit that weekend. – He names specific losses: Todd Cochran, founder of Blubrry, who passed “late summer, early fall”; his wife’s best friend Mary in Grand Haven, who died of lung problems and was younger than them; and his uncle Bill Busby, who turned eighty-eight at a recent party, helped start Motorola Semiconductors, was a US Air Force veteran (crew chief on a B-57 or B-58), and then passed away Monday morning. He says he and his nearly 98–99-year-old grandmother will be traveling to Detroit for that funeral. – Health update: Mike had a torn retina in his right eye, underwent emergency surgery, had to be face-down post-op while a bubble/oil was placed in the eye. At his second post-op checkup the doctor said things are looking good; vision in that eye is blurred by the oil bubble while the other eye is 20/20. He expects the oil to be removed and vision to clear later. He says this grounds him for about six weeks. – He mentions a lingering low-level cold over the past month.

– Recent events and work: – He attended Military Creator Con in Arlington, Texas (several hundred participants, veterans/active military/spouses), where he saw Jamie Jay, Christopher Lochhead, Gordon Firemark (podcast lawyer), and others. The event ran long days and was busy but enjoyable. – At Blubrry he’s been promoted to VP of Operations, overseeing teams and day-to-day work; Barry (another cofounder) is now CEO. He encourages podcasters to contact him for help, states he uses Blubrry hosting and the PowerPress plugin, and plugs Blubrry’s services.

– Technology and AI: – He discusses AI-generated content broadly: YouTube’s proliferation of AI-narrated slideshow-style or AI-generated videos; his guilty pleasure of “AI Karen stories” on YouTube (which he knows are AI and mostly fiction). – He references a MacRumors article reporting YouTube will automatically label AI videos even if creators don’t, and applauds the move, predicting many viewers will prefer non-AI content when labeled. – He raises concerns about AI in podcasting: AI-voiced podcasts and companies generating massive amounts of AI podcast content. He names a company, Inception PointAI, that reportedly generated a lot of AI podcast content and moved from Spreaker to Megaphone/Spotify; he says such AI content can hallucinate and produce factually untrue information, and that some AI podcasts present content as true. – He describes his own measured use of AI: he uses AI for transcripts and some artwork that he then tweaks, and he tried a cloned AI voice for one episode a few years ago but it didn’t sound right. He notes telltale patterns of AI-written scripts and advises never to ask AI for its opinion. – He touches on scams: modern scam emails are harder to spot because language models clean up grammar; he warns about requests for immediate payment, iTunes/gift cards, or crypto as signs of scams.

– Advertising and social media observations: – Criticizes YouTube mid-roll ads that interrupt videos, and the perceived decline in value of TV ads—locally seeing many online gambling ads in Michigan. – Observes AI activity on Facebook: AI agents entering groups to start conversations (sometimes inane or provocative) and AI-generated video shorts (e.g., airplanes doing impossible things). He dislikes Facebook’s prompts to read more on Threads and says he doesn’t want more social media accounts. He mentions being on LinkedIn, using X a little, and participating on Reddit, and says he plans to use a flip phone when he retires.

– Podcasting industry and advice: – Clarifies his use of “podcast” to mean generally audio (though he acknowledges podcasts can be video) and emphasizes that podcasting is a distribution method open to anyone. – Contrasts highly produced, broadcast-style podcasts (teams of producers and sound designers) with indie, authentic podcasts (one person talking into a microphone from a shed). He values indie authenticity and accessibility. – References a report by Tom Webster of Sounds Profitable noting people seek authentic-sounding podcast audio. He warns the industry is bifurcating between highly produced shows and indie creators. – Gives practical advice: podcasting is inexpensive and accessible (buy a microphone, record, compress to MP3, upload to hosting or WordPress to create an RSS feed). Suggests inexpensive cover art via Fiverr and mentions Blubrry hosting around fifteen dollars. Warns that podcasting generally won’t replace a day job quickly—monetization takes time and consistency. – Lists three elements for podcast success: consistency, authenticity, and having content that is interesting/informative/compelling (he stumbles on phrasing but leaves the point authentic). He notes technology barriers are lower now; you don’t have to be a geek. – Explains distribution parity: small indie shows can sit beside big shows like Joe Rogan in directories; one can succeed without becoming huge. His personal goal is to have a place to speak freely rather than chase large monetization.

– Plans and format changes: – He says they will restart the Podcast Insider show with a revamped, more conversational format with two or three hosts discussing industry trends (e.g., trend toward video). – Discusses video: video has always been part of podcasting but is getting more prominent; video production is harder (lighting, appearance, editing). Blubrry is working on a video product to better support creators. – Mentions his short-form series “Cup of Traverse City” (daily, five minutes) which he took a month off from and tried to restart; he intends for it to be five days a week, five minutes, when resumed. – Reiterates he podcasts when it’s fun and will take breaks when needed.

– Closing: – He notes he has been talking for forty-five minutes, asks listeners if they’re still subscribed and what they think about technology trends (is tech “going off the deep end” or is he being a curmudgeon?), invites feedback via email (mike at mike dell dot com), and signs off saying “Catch me later.”

Instead I walked into one of those forced self checkout setups. No regular checkout. No cashier. Just this open area with cameras hanging over it where you’re supposed to set your stuff down and trust that some mystery system scans every barcode at once. It is not a normal self checkout with a screen and a scanner you control. It’s just awkward. Confusing. And honestly a little uncomfortable.

I asked the person behind the counter if I had to use it. She said no, she could check me out “over there,” pointing at the regular register. The same register that was blocked off and covered in signs telling everyone to use the self checkout. So clearly that was not the plan.

She was visibly irritated that I even asked.

She rang me up manually. Didn’t ask if I needed a bag. I had four items that were not exactly pocket sized. Didn’t offer a receipt. The whole interaction felt like I was a problem for simply wanting to pay for what I was buying.

What happened to basic customer service?

Nobody asks if you need a bag anymore. They just assume you don’t. You get side eyed if you want to use cash. And more and more, it feels like asking someone to do the core function of their job is some massive inconvenience.

I work in customer service every day. Different space. Software, podcast hosting, support tickets, real technical problems. But the principle is the same. When someone asks for help, especially something completely reasonable and within scope, you help them. You do not act annoyed. You do not make them feel like they are in the way.

And you definitely do not expect applause (A Tip) for doing the bare minimum.

He begins the interview with Dan, who shares his background as a former funeral director and his journey into aviation. Dan discusses how his retirement was dull, prompting him to seek involvement in the airport authority, leading to the creation of Legacy Aviation.

The conversation covers the school’s unique one-year program, facilitated by new FAA regulations aimed at addressing a significant shortage of A&P mechanics projected in the coming years. Dan explains how they turned the idea of creating a mechanic school into reality, assisted by Dr. Sean Galligan, who helped them develop the program within a year. The school allows students to learn in a hands-on environment, focusing on practical experience with various projects like safety wiring and riveting.

Dan highlights that students can expect a tight-knit learning environment, with a favorable instructor-to-student ratio, and discusses the school’s job placement success rate, boasting that all graduates find jobs shortly after completing their training. He outlines how the school has gradually increased its student enrollment and plans to accept even more in the future.

Throughout the interview, they touch on the various learning facilities, the support for veterans, and the exciting community atmosphere that has emerged around the school. The program includes additional support to ensure all students can take their FAA licensing exams without the financial burden typically associated with such tests.

Episode 30 of NaPodPoMo2025 is in the books, and it’s got me thinking — I’m not quite ready to stop doing daily episodes. But instead of continuing that here on Mike Dell’s World, I’m spinning up something new.

Starting December 1st, 2025, I’m launching a brand-new weekday morning show called “Cup of Traverse City.” You’ll find it on its own feed at:

• https://podcast.show/cotc/

• https://cupoftraversecity.com

The plan is simple: a 5-minute (or so) episode every weekday around 8 a.m. Traverse City time. I’ll be recording while I’m having my morning coffee, chatting about whatever’s going on — interesting weather, life stuff, and what’s happening in and around Northern Michigan.

The format will be a bit of a work in progress at first. I’m sure I’ll settle into a groove over time, and my hope is that it becomes a nice little part of your morning routine.

I’d really love your feedback as this gets rolling.

You can reach me:

• By email: mike@mikedell.com

• On social media: mostly Facebook or X

Let me know what you think, and what you’d like me to talk about on Cup of Traverse City.

I talk about how podcasting grew up as an open technology, free from the control of big platforms or gatekeepers. That openness is part of its magic. Anyone can start a show, anyone can subscribe, and no single company controls whether a podcast lives or dies. It’s the last truly open publishing system on the internet, and that freedom is worth celebrating.

But podcasting is special for more than just the technology. There’s a kind of intimacy in audio that you don’t get with video or with text on a screen. When someone listens to a podcast, the host is right there with them — in their car, on a walk, working in the garage, or flying along on a cross-country in the RV-12. It’s a personal connection, one voice to one listener, in a way that feels almost old-fashioned, yet perfectly modern.

I also talk about how easy podcasting is to get started with and how accessible it still is for anyone who wants to share a story. You don’t need fancy cameras or editing suites. You just need a microphone, a place to publish, and something to say. That simplicity has helped the medium grow without losing its soul.

Toward the end, I share a bit of personal appreciation — how even after all these years, podcasting still feels fun, creative, and liberating. It’s a place where I can talk about anything from Northern Michigan history to flying to everyday life, and people choose to come along for the ride.

If you’ve ever wondered why podcasting still matters, or if you’ve been thinking about starting your own show, this episode is my way of reminding you what makes this medium so special.

Recorded on November 28, 2025 (yes, Black Friday—no, he’s not out shopping), Mike shares personal stories, local history, and some memories connected to the vast and beautiful grounds of what is now called the Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

• Established in 1881 and opened in 1885.

• Founded by Dr. James Decker Munson, namesake of Munson Healthcare, alongside Traverse City’s “father,” Perry Hanna.

• Built as a Kirkbride Plan psychiatric hospital—one of four in Michigan and the only one still standing and in active use today (though no longer as a hospital).

• Beautiful Victorian-style buildings with spires, long wings, wide porches, and landscaped grounds.

• Built on the idea of beauty, light, and nature aiding psychiatric healing.

• Gorgeous gardens supported by on-site greenhouses that provided year-round flowers.

• The hospital operated as its own little world:

  • Farms with cattle, pigs, chickens, crops, and orchards

  • Their own power plant

  • Workshops and barns (now part of Historic Barns Park)

• Many patients (or “clients,” as some staff called them) worked on the grounds as part of daily life.

• Both of Mike’s paternal grandparents worked there—his grandmother as an RN and his grandfather as an orderly.

• He shares memories of neighbors and relatives who worked on the hospital farm and grounds.

• He also reminisces about staying as a kid in the Perry Hanna House (now a funeral home)—a mansion connected to the founders of the hospital.

• After closing in the late 20th century, some buildings fell into disrepair.

• Today, Building 50 has been reborn with:

  • Condos and apartments

  • Offices

  • Shops, galleries, and restaurants in the lower level, known as The Grotto

• Other “cottages” are slowly being restored, while tours still visit the untouched and eerie sections.

• The site is rich with lore—including tunnels connecting buildings.

• Mike mentions wanting to have his friend Chris (a local historian and photographer) on the podcast to go deeper into the legends, stories, and details.

Mike also shares a personal memory of delivering bagels to Cup of Joe in Building 50’s grotto back when his wife ran a bagel shop—always grabbing a cup of coffee around 5:30 a.m.

• As you drive into Traverse City from the south (US-31 / M-37), the spires of Building 50 rise out of the trees—a recognizable introduction to town.

• November 29: “Why Podcasting Is So Special”

• November 30: A special final NaPodPoMo episode to close out the month

Thanks for listening, and catch Mike tomorrow for more!

From recent crime stories to long-standing local quirks, Mike explores whether Traverse City still feels like the small town he grew up in. He shares personal stories, local history, neighborhood breakdowns, and observations about everything from fast food failures to the layout of the airport and high schools.

• Sending well-wishes to listeners celebrating the holiday.

• The first Thanksgiving without Mike’s dad and the tradition of leaving an empty chair at the table.

• Recent unusual crime events:

  • The Walmart stabbing last summer.

  • A fatal parking-deck shooting involving car break-ins.

  • An attempted abduction at the Meijer gas station.

• Why these big incidents still feel like “small-town news.”

• 2020 Census: About 16,000 people inside Traverse City limits.

• Metro area: ~153,000 across four counties (Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, Kalkaska).

• Mike’s spot just outside the city—technically East Bay Township, but “still Traverse City” in daily life.

• Downtown District

• Traverse Heights

• Old Town

• Central Neighborhoods

• Greilickville

• Acme / Williamsburg

• “Miracle Mile” – hotels and tourist strip on the bay

• Summer vs. winter crowds

• Winter visitors: snowmobilers, skiers, ice fishermen

• Bars downtown still feel local and familiar in the off-season

• Current schools: Central, West, Traverse City High School (Mavericks), plus Catholic Central.

• Stories about the old buildings, snow-exposed walkways, and campus redesigns.

• The near-identical design of TC West and the Columbine High School campus.

• Cherry Capital Airport still feels small—Mike knows most of the airline and TSA staff.

• No Amtrak service in Traverse City yet; nearest connections are Grand Rapids or Holland.

• Mike’s go-to workaround: driving to New Buffalo to catch the train to Chicago.

• Legacy of parking meters (now digital), plus multiple parking decks.

• Cherry Festival setup: rides, games, food stands—including local favorite Gibby Fries.

• Arnold Amusements (based in Acme) runs many Michigan carnivals.

• Late-night flashing signals

• The ongoing roundabout debate

• Getting across town in only ~15 minutes even on a busy day

• Chains that didn’t survive: several McDonald’s, Burger Kings, Arby’s, Ruby Tuesday, Hooters

• Three Meijer stores serving the area (original, Acme/Williamsburg, and soon Chum’s Corners)

• Local burger highlights: Slabtown Burgers, Bubba’s, Eastfield’s Proper Burger (with commentary)

• Traverse City tends to favor local restaurants over big chains

• Well-loved local Mexican places like La Señorita

Mike wraps up with a warm Thanksgiving message—hoping listeners enjoy good food, family, and gratitude—and shares appreciation for being able to create a daily episode for NaPodPoMo.

Mike talks about being assigned to Naval Air Station Keflavik, a joint-base environment with Air Force, Navy, Marines, and other NATO personnel. He recounts working with the 57th Fighter Interceptor Squadron – the Black Knights, maintaining F-15 electrical and environmental systems, and occasionally pulling duty in “FISneyland,” the alert barn for interceptor operations.

Before Iceland came a whirlwind of military orders:

• Originally headed to remote Galena, Alaska, the Air Force cancelled those orders at the last minute.

• The next day, new orders arrived sending him to Keflavik instead.

• He completed F-15 training at Tyndall AFB in Florida, drove across the country, shipped his belongings, and ultimately hopped a Hawaiian Airlines DC-8 from Philadelphia to Iceland—a strange but memorable experience.

Mike recalls what it was like living overseas before modern connectivity:

• Expensive phone calls back to the States ($1.06 per minute!)

• Mail arriving once a week on the “rotator” DC-8

• Magazines being precious entertainment

• Trading software, playing early PC games, and marveling at a 286 computer with 1MB of RAM

• A handful of TV channels including AFRTS, BBC, RTL4, and Sky News/Sports

Mike shares a mix of practical and quirky details:

• The legendary Icelandic hot dogs (a recurring theme!)

• Navy chow halls, the USO, and Friday fish fries with cod caught the same day

• Wild weather with winds over 100 mph, handrails along sidewalks, and dumpsters blowing around

• Surprisingly mild temperatures thanks to the Gulf Stream

• Extreme daylight shifts—near-constant darkness in winter and 24-hour light in summer

During his tour, Mike bought a quirky little Škoda 120 and used it to explore beyond the base. He describes:

• Driving through the first roundabouts he’d ever seen

• Visiting the Hard Rock Café in Reykjavik, where one of his Idaho ham-radio license plates hung from the ceiling

• Cheap hops on Navy P-3 “airline-style” flights to London or Shannon, Ireland

• Customs rules that prohibited gas cans, extra cigarettes, and oddly… cassette tapes

Mike reflects on how much Iceland has changed—from relatively untouched in the early ’90s to a major European travel destination today. He also notes a past interview he did on the All Things Iceland podcast in May 2020, sharing more of his experiences from that era.

I appeared on an episode of All Things Iceland Episode 61 in May of 2020. 

From the snow drifts taller than a kid to the surreal quiet of a world that completely shut down, this episode captures the Blizzard of ’78 as only someone who lived it — wide-eyed and bundled up — can tell it.

Mike sets the scene by sharing that he had just celebrated his birthday when the blizzard began, remembering how he had a pizza party at home after his father picked up Sicilian square pizza from a local place called Little Richard’s. He recalls the excitement in the air as TV news talked about the potential for a blizzard.

On the morning of January 26, schools were closed as drifts of snow created significant chaos. Mike describes how everything was completely buried under the snow, with even the antenna of his mother’s car barely visible. The storm had high winds, creating massive drifts and making travel impossible. He recounts the challenges of feeding horses at a nearby barn and how his family navigated the snow-laden landscape.

He humorously shares anecdotes about the struggles of shoveling snow with his cousin and their father using a 1970 John Deere lawn tractor equipped with a snowblower. After several days, the roads began to open again, and stories about neighbors and their interactions during the storm emerge, including a humorous tale about a front-end loader being used to deliver cigarettes to a stranded neighbor.

As the storm’s impact persisted, schools were closed for an entire week, and the community adapted to the extraordinary amount of snow with creative solutions like snowshoeing for transportation. Mike also describes his memories of hot soups simmering on the wood stove during the storm, a comforting detail from those winter days.

He revisits the enormous snowbanks that formed by the season’s end, making comparisons to today’s weather reactions and reminiscing about the blizzard’s lasting impact. Mike wraps up by inviting listeners who experienced the Blizzard of ’78 to share their stories and reflecting on how this blizzard remains a notable part of his childhood memory.

Mike starts with Antrim County Airport (KACB), located northeast of Traverse City near Bellaire. He describes it as a small airport without a control tower in class E airspace, where pilots announce their locations on a common traffic frequency. He shares his experiences doing touch-and-go landings, low passes for practice, and highlights the airport’s amenities, including fuel services and a comfortable lounge.

Next, he moves further north to Pellston Airport, noting its significance as an airport with scheduled airline service and a restaurant on-site, which he humorously labels a “hundred dollar hamburger” destination. He continues to mention Charlevoix Airport, which hosts Island Airways that services Beaver Island. He details the two airports on Beaver Island but admits he has not landed there.

Mike then discusses Gaylord Regional Airport and Gaylord Airport, emphasizing their runway lengths and his experiences landing there. He contrasts this with Kalkaska City Airport, where he recalls the challenges of landing on a narrower runway. He also talks about Frankfurt Airport, sharing similar landing difficulties due to its relatively short and narrow runway.

He proceeds to describe Manistee County Airport, known for its changing airlines and essential air service. He mentions Cadillac Wexford County Airport, highlighting a unique grass runway formerly used for gliders, which is no longer operational. He shares experiences of flying over various other airports like Mackinac Island and Saint Ignace, where approaches involve over-water flights.

Mike mentions historic Acme Skyport Airport, which has been revived, and Thompsonville Airport, where he had an ultralight flying experience. He also reflects on Wertz Smith Airport, once a large military base with a long runway, describing his future intentions to visit.

Throughout the episode, Mike humorously shares insights about his experiences at these airports, including the challenges of landing, the uniqueness of each location, and the importance of navigating various airspaces, especially concerning military operation areas.

He concludes the episode by teasing that his next episode will cover his memories of the Blizzard of ’78 as a twelve-year-old.

He discusses two primary aviation schools: Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) and Giving Wings Aviation. NMC Aviation School is notable for training airline pilots, offering private, commercial, multi-engine, and instructor ratings. Mike highlights the school’s good track record for graduating pilots and mentions the newly renovated facilities and the experienced leader, a former 747 pilot. He emphasizes how NMC graduates often proceed to airlines or corporate flying jobs.

On the other hand, Giving Wings Aviation is a smaller school that provides a more laid-back environment for training, mainly focusing on private and sport pilot licenses, although they used to offer multi-engine and seaplane training. Mike shares his own experiences flying with Giving Wings, appreciating the convenience of having the school nearby.

Mike also mentions the aviation program at a local high school and the involvement of the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) in mentoring the students. He transitions to discussing Legacy Aviation, a unique aviation maintenance school that offers a 12-month program for aircraft mechanics, providing students with certification and tools upon graduation.

In addition, Mike discusses further options for aspiring pilots, including a new flight school at Cadillac Airport about an hour away and a seaplane training program. He briefly touches on the Coast Guard air station in Traverse City, noting that Coast Guard members go through helicopter training at Fort Rucker, Alabama.

Finally, Mike summarizes the various training options in Traverse City, pointing out the challenges posed by winter weather for flying. He wraps up the episode by teasing a future discussion about other airports in the region.

He recounts dropping off his friend Kathy at the hospital for an MRI and then enjoying coffee with friends at the hangar. Afterward, he goes shopping at Costco, describing it as busy and noting the efficiency of their checkout lines despite the long queues.

Later, Mike reflects on his day and decides to record an episode since he hadn’t done so the night before. He briefly outlines his plans for the rest of November, which include episodes covering topics like the local aviation community, his memories of the Blizzard of ’78, his experiences living in Keflavik, Iceland in the early ’90s, and thoughts on Traverse City as a small town.

He also shares upcoming content related to the Northern Michigan asylum, now known as Grand Traverse Commons, and mentions the idea of potentially starting a daily five-minute show called “Coffee with Mike.” Mike discusses his other commitments, including his weekly show “Podcast Insider” and his role as a rotating guest host on another podcast.

He talks about preparing for the Podfest Expo in Florida, where he will be speaking and sponsoring an event. Mike reflects on the passing of his company’s founder and looks forward to representing the company at the expo.

Towards the end of the episode, he mentions some technical challenges his company has faced, including issues with CloudFlare and software glitches, but reassures listeners that everything is resolved. He wraps up by sharing his evening plans of having steak and baked potatoes for dinner, humorously noting his return to a keto diet. He concludes by inviting feedback from listeners regarding his potential daily show, and expresses excitement for discussing aviation in the next episode.

The artwork for this episode is creepy AI generated. Geez. ????

Mike discusses the various frequency bands in ham radio, starting with UHF, VHF, and HF, detailing their uses and characteristics. He explains concepts like frequency modulation (FM) and amplitude modulation (AM), along with how repeater stations work to extend transmission ranges. Mike also recounts his personal experiences with these frequencies, mentioning how he engaged with fellow hams while fishing and discussing the unique phenomena of tropospheric ducting that allowed him to communicate long distances.

He then dives into specific bands, starting with the two-meter band, explaining its popularity, accessibility for new technicians, and how equipment like inexpensive radios can enable communication across towns. Mike also shares anecdotes about his experiences and connections with other ham operators, emphasizing the camaraderie within the amateur radio community.

Continuing, he describes several other HF bands, explaining each band’s unique properties, propagation characteristics, and modes of communication available within them. Mike touches on historical aspects of obtaining licenses, mentioning how the requirements have shifted over the years, specifically noting the discontinuation of Morse code testing for access to ham radio.

Additionally, Mike elaborates on various digital modes that have emerged within ham radio, contrasting them with traditional radio communication, and shares fond memories of his early experiences, such as using packet radio to send messages to his father before email became commonplace.

As the episode wraps up, Mike reflects on the significance of ham radio in his life, noting how it has helped him form lasting friendships and connections. He concludes by expressing his commitment to the hobby and the joy he finds in it, inviting listeners to explore the world of amateur radio and reminding them that he will return for the next episode.

Key Topics Covered:

The importance of reducing speed when roads get snowy — Mike’s rule of thumb: about 10 mph less than the posted speed limit when snow first covers the roads.

• Planning extra time for trips: leaving earlier, anticipating traffic delays and slower conditions.

• Tire considerations:

  • Ensuring you have good tires — if you’re riding on bald all-seasons or summer tires, winter traction will suffer.

  • The value of genuine snow tires (Mike’s wife uses Nokian Hakkapeliitta).

  • Using your 4-wheel drive / all-wheel drive appropriately: yes, it can help with takeoff, but it does not help you stop any faster.

• Practicing skid control: find an empty parking lot and experiment with sliding, skids, recovery — to build feel and confidence before you have to use it on a public road.

• Clearing your vehicle of snow & ice before driving: windows, side & back, even the roof can matter (if snow slides forward, covers your windshield).

• Vehicle maintenance tips for winter: topping off washer fluid, checking tires, inflation, fluid levels, making sure everything is in good shape before the real winter hits.

• The overarching message: slow down, leave earlier, prepare your vehicle, drive mindfully — all so you avoid bending your car, hurting someone, or getting stuck in a snowbank.

Quote Highlights:

“Don’t ever be in a hurry while driving on snow.”

“Just please, please realize … four-wheel drive does not make you stop any quicker.”

“If you’re not used to driving in snow, go find an empty parking lot … figure out when the car goes out of control and how to get it back.”

Why this matters:

For those of us flying, working, commuting or traveling in winter-weather regions (like Northern Michigan), conditions can change rapidly. The same mindset of preparation and respect for environment that applies in aviation carries over to road driving: equipment (tires, maintenance), environment (snow/ice, slower speeds), and mindset (leave earlier, anticipate, stay calm). This episode is a great reminder to apply that disciplined approach to driving when the snow starts.

What’s Next:

Mike mentions he’ll be talking about ham radio stuff in the next episode — so stay tuned.

Who’s this for:

• Drivers in winter-weather climates looking for refresher tips.

• Anyone who owns a 4WD/AWD vehicle and doesn’t fully understand its limitations in snow.

• People who might have to drive in snow but don’t feel confident — this could help build awareness and reduce risk.

• Listeners who appreciate aviation-style pre-flight (pre-drive?) checklists and disciplined preparation.

Call to Action:

• Before the next snow, check your vehicle: tires, fluids, wipers/washer fluid, defroster, windows.

• Practice a skid-recovery session in a safe, empty area.

• When roads get snowy—slow down, leave earlier, and remember your stopping distance grows.

• Share this episode with someone you know who may not be comfortable driving in snow.

He talks about waking up too early, back-to-back Zoom calls, and the extra layer of chaos that comes when major services like Cloudflare go down. But mixed into all that is a message: it’s okay to pause, to set boundaries, and to purposely not be busy.

This winter, Mike plans to simplify things—like leaving the tractor at his mom’s place for driveway clearing, taking snowshoe walks, heating with wood by the fireplace, and carving out real downtime to read, relax, or just get bored on purpose.

He also talks about how constant digital distractions make it hard to truly unwind—like instinctively grabbing the phone for YouTube Shorts the moment a show is paused. Maybe boredom isn’t such a bad thing.

Mike wraps up by teasing tomorrow’s episode on winter driving—something that pairs perfectly with the theme of slowing down.

• A day of nonstop Zoom calls and early wake-ups

• Reflecting on a stressful year and big life changes

• Losing Blubrry founder Todd Cochrane and navigating the transition

• Handling winter chores differently this year

• The value of intentional downtime and not over-committing

• Heating with wood and embracing cozy winter days

• Tech dependence, boredom, and the lure of YouTube Shorts

• Cloudflare outages and customer anxiety

• A preview of tomorrow’s topic: winter driving

• The trip to Detroit/Novi was a blend of business (Kathy’s expo) + pleasure (casual touring/eating) and Mike gives a realistic, non-glamorous travel rundown (hotel dinners, big casinos, pawn shops).

• A good mix of personal anecdote + geek-podcaster/equipment talk (the audio setup breakdown) shows authenticity.

• The episode offers varied content: personal lives, travel, gear talk, rather than a single focused theme.

• Sponsorship disclosure is clear and woven in naturally.

Mike shares his own experiences behind the microphone—past and present—along with observations about the local radio landscape, how podcasting fits into the region’s media identity, and how much the area has changed since the early days of local broadcasting.

• What “broadcasting in Traverse City” means today

  From terrestrial radio to modern podcasting, the evolution of getting your voice out from northern Michigan.

• Mike’s beginnings in broadcasting

  A look back at early experiences, equipment, motivations, and what hooked him on audio in the first place.

• Traverse City’s radio past and present

  Reflections on stations, formats, and personalities that shaped the region over the decades.

• How podcasting fits into a northern Michigan lifestyle

  The joys and challenges of producing a show in a place better known for lakes, snow, cherries, and tourism.

• Behind-the-scenes workflow for Mike Dell’s World

  Recording setups, tools, and how Mike keeps episodes flowing while juggling life, flying, work at Blubrry, and northern Michigan weather.

• Why Traverse City is a great place to create media

  Inspiration, scenery, community, and just enough quirk to keep things interesting.

Got a late start recording today.

• A quick history of medical marijuana legalization (2008)

• Proposal 1 and the shift to recreational use in 2018

• What changed on day one — and what didn’t

• How Traverse City, Acme, Kingsley, and neighboring towns handled the rollout

• Local dispensaries, differences between tourist areas vs. rural areas

• The slow-but-steady licensing process in TC

• “Can I grow my own?”

• “Can you smoke in public?”

• “What about driving?”

• “What’s the tax structure like?”

• How legal marijuana has changed the vibe for summer visitors

• The mix of craft breweries, wineries, and now… dispensaries

• The interesting combo of retirees, tourists, and locals navigating it all

• Observations as someone who has watched Michigan go from dry counties to legal weed

• How Michigan tends to “normalize” things once the novelty wears off

• Why episode 420 was the perfect moment to talk about it

Mike reminisces about Clinch Park’s history, mentioning that it used to house the Clinch Park Zoo, which focused on local Michigan wildlife instead of exotic animals. He shares that the zoo began in the early thirties and was a favorite childhood destination. He provides background on the miniature city attraction within the park, initiated by local civic leader Con Foster during the Great Depression, which included scaled replicas of downtown buildings. Mike recalls that the miniature city was active until 1973 and later moved some of its models to the Music House Museum in Acme, Michigan.

The conversation shifts to the park’s miniature steam train, which offered rides around the zoo until 2007. Afterward, he describes the marina’s features, noting the availability of boat slips and facilities for visitors. He then talks about the removal of the zoo and aquarium in 2007 and how they were replaced by a splash pad, which faced several issues shortly after its installation.

Mike further discusses changes in the park, including the removal of other structures, such as the coal fire electric plant, to expand open spaces. He mentions that the Clinch Park has become a central waterfront area, ideal for outdoor activities and close to downtown Traverse City. He points out that the park is a great spot to watch airshows during the Cherry Festival.

In concluding the episode, Mike says he will return for another podcast the next day but is unsure of the topic. He wraps up by calling it a podcast and signs off.

Mike discusses the early snowfall in Traverse City, noting that some areas received significant accumulation while much of it has already melted. He shares the current temperature, converting it to Celsius for clarity, and describes the mixed weather conditions—with rain expected in nearby areas.

Continuing with his narrative, Mike reflects on the change of seasons, mentioning the leaves dropping from the trees, particularly maples and oaks, and recounts the recent yard work he has done to clear the leaves. He mentions plans to prepare his tractor for winter, including getting it serviced at the John Deere dealer after removing the mower deck and attaching the snowblower.

Mike recounts an outing for his wife’s birthday dinner at Outback Steakhouse, describing the significant snowfall while they were dining and the challenges his family faced getting home due to the winter driving conditions. He humorously comments on how drivers often forget how to drive in snow, leading to accidents and challenges on the road.

Towards the end of the episode, Mike decides to keep this episode short and mentions that he will talk about Clinch Park, a notable park in Traverse City with an interesting history, in the following episode.

He wraps up by wishing listeners a great day and prompts them to catch him later.

ured for more than four years to uphold the barrier of civilization against the aggressions of armed force. We ourselves had been in the conflict something more than a year and a half.

With splendid forgetfulness of mere personal concerns, we remodeled our industries, concentrated our financial resources, increased our agricultural output, and assembled a great army, so that at the last our power was a decisive factor in the victory. We were able to bring the vast resources, material and moral, of a great and free people to the assistance of our associates in Europe who had suffered and sacrificed without limit in the cause for which we fought.

Out of this victory there arose new possibilities of political freedom and economic concert. The war showed us the strength of great nations acting together for high purposes, and the victory of arms foretells the enduring conquests which can be made in peace when nations act justly and in furtherance of the common interests of men.

To us in America the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service, and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of nations

Tonight I talk about the wreck of the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald

Timeline:

NOVEMBER 9 8:30 AM The Edmund Fitzgerald is loaded with taconite pellets at Burlington Northern Railroad, Dock 1. Superior, Wisconsin The ship is scheduled to transport the cargo to Zug Island on the Detroit River. 2:20 PM The Fitzgerald departs Lake Superior en route of Detroit with 26,116 tons of taconite pellets. 2:39 PM The National Weather Service issues gale warnings for the area which the Fitzgerald is sailing in. Captain Cooper on the Anderson radios a freighter (the Edmund Fitzgerald) that he spots. 4:15 PM The Fitzgerald spots the Arthur M. Anderson some 15 miles behind it. NOVEMBER 10 1:00 AM Weather report from the Fitzgerald. The report from the Fitzgerald shows her to be 20 miles south of Isle Royale. Winds are at 52 knots, with waves ten feet in height. 7:00 AM Weather report from the Fitzgerald. Winds are at 35 knots, waves of ten feet. This is the last weather report that the Edmund Fitzgerald will ever make. 3:15 PM Captain Jesse Cooper, (J.C.) of the S.S. Arthur M. Anderson watches the Fitzgerald round Caribou Island and comments that the Fitzgerald is much closer to Six Fathom Shoal than he would want to be. 3:20 PM Anderson reports winds coming from the Northwest at 43 knots. 3:30 PM Radio transmission between the Fitzgerald and the Anderson Captain McSorley (C.M.) to Captain Cooper (C.C.): C.M.: “Anderson, this is the Fitzgerald. I have sustained some topside damage. I have a fence rail laid down, two vents lost or damaged, and a list. I’m checking down. Will you stay by me til I get to Whitefish?” C.C.: “Charlie on that Fitzgerald. Do you have your pumps going?” C.M.: “Yes, both of them 4:10 PM The Fitzgerald radios the Arthur M. Anderson requesting radar assistance for the remainder of the voyage. Fitzgerald: “Anderson, this is the Fitzgerald. I have lost both radars. Can you provide me with radar plots till we reach Whitefish Bay?” Anderson: “Charlie on that, Fitzgerald. We’ll keep you advised of position.” About 4:39 PM The Fitzgerald cannot pick up the Whitefish Point radio beacon. The Fitzgerald radios the Coast Guard station at Grand Marais on Channel 16, the emergency channel. Between 4:30 and 5:00 PM The Edmund Fitzgerald calls for any vessel in the Whitefish Point area regarding information about the beacon and light at Whitefish Point. They receive an answer by the saltwater vessel Avafors that the beacon and the light are not operating. Estimated between 5:30 and 6:00 PM Radio transmission between the Avafors and the Fitzgerald. Avafors: “Fitzgerald, this is the Avafors. I have the Whitefish light now but still am receiving no beacon. Over.” Fitzgerald: “I’m very glad to hear it.” Avafors: “The wind is really howling down here. What are the conditions where you are?” Fitzgerald: (Undiscernable shouts heard by the Avafors.) “DON’T LET NOBODY ON DECK!” Avafors: “What’s that, Fitzgerald? Unclear. Over.” Fitzgerald: “I have a bad list, lost both radars. And am taking heavy seas over the deck. One of the worst seas I’ve ever been in.” Avafors: “If I’m correct, you have two radars.” Fitzgerald: “They’re both gone.” Sometime around 7:00 PM The Anderson is struck by two huge waves that put water on the ship, 35 feet above the water line. The waves hit with enough force to push the starboard lifeboat down, damaging the bottom. 7:10 PM Radio transmission between the Anderson and the Fitzgerald. The Fitzgerald is still being followed by the Arthur M. Anderson. They are about 10 miles behind the Fitzgerald. Anderson: “Fitzgerald, this is the Anderson. Have you checked down?” Fitzgerald: “Yes we have.” Anderson: “Fitzgerald, we are about 10 miles behind you, and gaining about 1 1/2 miles per hour. Fitzgerald, there is a target 19 miles ahead of us. So the target would be 9 miles on ahead of you.” Fitzgerald: “Well, am I going to clear?” Anderson: “Yes.

Mike then dives into the essentials of winterizing for those living in northern climates, emphasizing the importance of preparing for below-freezing temperatures and snowfall. He mentions specific tasks such as winterizing campers by removing water and replacing it with edible antifreeze, which he explains should be flushed out in the spring.

He continues by highlighting other important winter preparations, like placing snow shovels in accessible locations and ensuring ice scrapers and snow brushes are in vehicles for winter driving. He talks about getting snowblowers operational and servicing tractors, including changing fluids and preparing them for snow removal.

Mike discusses the seasonal change of window air conditioners and reminds listeners to ensure their furnace filters are clean. He stresses the importance of checking propane and oil levels for heating and mentions that many people must also winterize boats and other equipment by running engines to remove water.

In a light-hearted manner, Mike shares anecdotes about driveway markers to avoid losing track of the edges under snow and reminisces about the past when sand barrels helped drivers on the hills. He explains the need for snow tires and the ‘summarizing’ process that occurs in preparation for summer, such as changing oil for snowblowers and clearing debris.

Throughout the episode, Mike shares personal stories, including the collapse of a portable garage due to heavy snow buildup, illustrating that even with preparation, unexpected challenges can arise. He concludes by noting that those who do not experience harsh winters may not have to deal with these kinds of winterization tasks.

Finally, Mike teases the next episode’s topic: the anniversary of the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, hinting that there is more to the story than just the famous song associated with it.

Mike shares how the transition to standard time can confuse pets, particularly his dog, who expects to eat at the usual time but finds it altered after the time change. He mentions that this time change doesn’t genuinely affect the length of the day, but instead just changes the clock.

The discussion moves to the origins and implications of DST, mentioning a common myth that it was implemented for farmers, which he disputes, saying that farmers prefer to follow the sun rather than the clock. Mike also elaborates on how the time change complicates work schedules, especially for their employees in different time zones, including those in the Philippines, who are significantly affected by the changes.

He recalls historical attempts at permanent daylight saving time, referencing legislation from World War times and the 1974 attempt by President Nixon, which was later repealed due to public discontent about children commuting in the dark. Mike reflects on his experience living in Iceland, where daylight and darkness take on extreme forms, emphasizing that the clock’s position doesn’t change natural light patterns.

Towards the end, he proposes a radical idea of adopting a universal time system, which would simplify scheduling across different regions. He humorously reflects on the mundane task of changing various clocks in his life after the time change and closes with a note of appreciation for listeners, encouraging them to stay subscribed as he continues his podcasting journey.

Mike recalls that Traverse City Airport wasn’t always in its current location and describes the original Ransom Field airport, which opened in 1929. He discusses the move to the current airport site, previously a Naval Air Station, in 1946, and highlights the joint ownership by Grand Traverse and Leelanau counties, now overseen by the Northwest Regional Airport Commission.

The narrative covers various details about the airport’s operations, including its initial configuration with multiple runways and the types of aircraft historically present. Mike notes that Traverse City Airport is the fourth busiest airport in Michigan, identifying its airspace classification as Delta, which requires communication with the control tower while allowing casual traffic.

He elaborates on the airport’s recent developments, including a new terminal built in the early 2000s, and how the airport has expanded its flight options over the years. In the past, flights were limited to connections to Detroit and Minneapolis, but Mike explains that several airlines now offer year-round and seasonal non-stop flights to various destinations.

Throughout the episode, Mike shares anecdotes about his experiences at the airport, including interactions with military aircraft and notable historical events, such as presidential visits. He mentions some minor incidents that have occurred at the airport but clarifies that there have been no major accidents in recent memory.

Concluding, Mike emphasizes the importance of Traverse City Airport for Northern Michigan’s connectivity and expresses excitement about future episodes, hinting at a rant planned for the next day.

Transitioning to Union Street, Mike describes its location on the west end of downtown Traverse City, starting at the bay and discussing the former Morgan McCool fruit processing plant, known for processing Motts apple products. After the plant’s closure, the land was donated to the college, and the area was transformed into an open space that hosts the National Cherry Festival and other events.

As Mike moves further into the episode, he details various buildings and businesses along Union Street. He describes a large apartment building, previously home to a gas station and a bank, and mentions parking lots and city parking behind those buildings. He reminisces about a fire that affected a building housing a café called “The Dish,” recounting its history and the local establishment Mel G’s Music Shop, where he and fellow band members would purchase instruments.

Continuing his trip down memory lane, Mike mentions a pizza place called Papa Jay’s with an arcade and the bar zone that exists along Union Street, detailing Union Street Station and the now-closed Bill’s Dills, known for karaoke. He reflects on both establishments’ significance in local nightlife and connects back to his personal memories associated with them, including a karaoke mistress named Laura.

Mike shares tidbits about local bars, like Brady’s bar, which has been a staple in the community, and its menu highlighting bluegill fish. He briefly touches on the history of gas stations and notable locations like a mechanic shop that was formerly a gas station.

As he wraps up this extensive recounting, he shares memories of City Bike Shop, where he purchased his bicycle and had it serviced, and mentions Fivensons, known for their memorable TV commercials. After a lengthy trip through the history of Union Street and its surroundings, he concludes by discussing upcoming episodes and the intent to continue providing content as part of National Podcast Post Month.

Mike thanks his listeners for staying engaged and expresses excitement about future topics, hinting at an aviation-related episode to come, before signing off.

Link to Stacy’s video in 1984:  https://www.c-span.org/program/interview/staceys-restaurant/93196

In this episode of “Mike Dell’s World,” titled “A Nostalgic Stroll Through Traverse City,” host Mike Dell introduces the topic of downtown Traverse City, emphasizing a nostalgic look back at its history rather than focusing solely on the present.

Mike begins by acknowledging the show’s date and hinting at an initial plan to discuss November in Traverse City, but decides instead to dive into the broader topic of the downtown area across time. He sets the scene, noting the arrival of colder weather and the first snowfall, which influences his nostalgic mood.

Moving into descriptions, he outlines what constitutes downtown Traverse City from Pine Street to the parkway, mentioning key landmarks. He describes the historic Fifth Third Bank building, originally the Traverse City State Bank, highlighting its iconic dome and heated sidewalks which prevent snow from accumulating. Mike reflects on his childhood memories of the bank’s motorized revolving door.

Next, he discusses the Park Place Hotel, which dates back to 1930, remarking on its lighthouse beacon. He shares memories of the City Opera House, built in 1890, mentioning various performances he has attended there, including a local gala and shows by notable entertainers.

Mike recounts the transformation of several buildings over the years, such as the former True Value Hardware store, which was affected by fire and later revamped into storefronts. He praises Traverse City for having a thriving downtown despite the convenience of big box stores outside the city.

The conversation continues to the Whiting Hotel, recalling its reputation as a cheap stay in the 70s and 80s and its current transformation into upscale apartments. He discusses the Hannah Lay building, emphasizing its historical significance related to lumber baron Perry Hannah, and recalls various stores that were once located there.

Mike also brings up the Michigan and State theaters, noting their similar designs and contrasting them with the local roller skating rink that used to be underneath the Michigan theater. He reminisces about his childhood experiences there and the eventual transformations of both theaters into new spaces.

He describes the rise of Horizon Books, which evolved from a small store to a large community-centered bookstore featuring a café, music events, and book signings, emphasizing its importance in the downtown culture.

As he moves forward, Mike reflects on his family’s past with Doll’s Restaurant, once owned by his grandfather, and highlights both the uniqueness and character of various now-defunct eateries, including Stacy’s and the Beanpot.

The episode concludes with Mike discussing local radio history and the significance of old establishments like Murray’s Boats and Motors. He emphasizes the growth and change within Traverse City’s downtown while sharing personal anecdotes and fond memories from his life.

Ultimately, Mike notes that he intends to continue the exploration of downtown Traverse City in a subsequent episode, specifically focusing on Union Street and the surrounding area. He wraps up this episode at the twenty-eight-minute mark, indicating a follow-up discussion is imminent.

Mike introduces the episode’s topic of taking the long way home, explaining that he enjoys scenic routes rather than the quickest paths back to his house. He describes driving along Five Mile Road and discusses the area around him, including its woodlands and the slight elevations. As he drives, he comments on the beautiful weather—55 degrees and sunny—with the fall colors still visible but past their peak.

As he navigates the roads, Mike reminisces about his family’s history in the area, including his uncle’s place from the 1970s. He mentions the names of several lakes, emphasizing the beauty and charm of taking slower, scenic routes through the Forest Lakes area and reflecting on past experiences from his childhood.

Mike encounters some minor driving challenges, like getting caught behind other vehicles and needing to manage his dog’s comfort with the seatbelt and windows. He shares details about a road known as Supply Road, which is popular among car enthusiasts and motorcyclists for its curves and scenic beauty.

He also contrasts Supply Road with M-22, another renowned highway in Michigan, sharing anecdotes about local tourism and roadside attractions, including a t-shirt company that has trademarked the highway sign. As he nears his home, Mike discusses the significance of local landmarks like Roy’s General Store, mentioning its array of products and offerings.

Towards the end of the episode, Mike reflects on the seasonal changes in Michigan, humorously commenting on the challenges of construction and tourist traffic that occur throughout the year. he expresses his intention to record more mobile podcasts and hints at doing a podcast from the airport soon.

As he approaches home, he remarks on the challenges of navigating traffic lights and concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more. Throughout the episode, Mike creates a humorous and laid-back atmosphere while sharing his thoughts and experiences on the joys of taking the long way home.

• The site used to be addressed as 1504 E. Front Street in Traverse City.

• Back then it was part of the old fast food strip east of downtown. At some point in the early 1990s, that section was renumbered/reassigned and the same building became 110 Munson Ave (Munson Ave and E. Front basically merge/split in that corridor). 

So: same physical spot, two different street numbers over time.

Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips (late 1970s / very early 1980s)

• One of the classic British-style fried fish & chips chains.

• The Traverse City location was listed at 1504 E. Front St., which is the same building that later became 110 Munson Ave. 

• Arthur Treacher’s expanded hard in the ‘70s/early ‘80s and then started fading nationally in the mid-’80s. The Traverse City shop was part of that early wave. 

Burger Square (≈1981–1984)

• After Arthur Treacher’s left, the spot became Burger Square around 1981.

• Locals describe Burger Square as a slider/burger place, kind of White Castle-ish. It only lasted a few years, into the mid-1980s. 

Dairy Queen (mid-1980s to early 1990s)

• After Burger Square, the same building turned into a Dairy Queen.

• Sources say that Dairy Queen ran there through the late ’80s and very early ’90s, then closed/relocated. 

• This is also the point where the address shifts: that old DQ at 1504 E. Front is later referred to as 110 Munson Ave. 

Schlotzsky’s Deli (early 1990s)

• In the early ’90s, after Dairy Queen, the building became a Schlotzsky’s Deli (the Austin-style sandwich chain).

• That didn’t last super long; by the mid/late ’90s it had flipped again. 

Luigi’s Pizzeria & Café (mid/late 1990s into 2000s)

• Next up was Luigi’s Pizzeria & Café, doing pizzas, pasta, sandwiches.

• Luigi’s shows up in business directories at 110 Munson Ave and is tied to the Gutowski family locally. One listing says Luigi’s (at that address) dates back to the 2000s and had a handful of employees. 

• A note from the owners suggests this Munson Ave location eventually closed around the late 2000s/very early 2010s. 

Mancino’s Pizza & Grinders (late 1990s / 2000s era overlap)

• The same family (Valentine “Billy” and Linda Gutowski) also operated Mancino’s Pizza & Grinders in Traverse City.

• Mancino’s is described as their independent, mom-and-pop pizza/grinder shops that started in the area in the 1990s and expanded to multiple Traverse City locations. 

• Mancino’s is specifically listed at 110 Munson Ave in older directories, and some maps still show “Mancino’s Pizza & Grinders” or “Gutowski Restaurants” tied to that address even after it was gone. 

• Over time, the Gutowskis rebranded/relocated the Mancino’s/“bread nuggets” operation to other Traverse City spots (Chum’s Corner, West Bayshore, etc.), and the Munson Ave shop closed. 

That’sa Pizza (2010s–2020)

• After Mancino’s/Luigi’s, the building housed That’sa Pizza, a long-running Traverse City pizza brand that traces back to 1981. 

• That’sa Pizza ran takeout/delivery from 110 Munson Ave through the 2010s. By early 2021 the Munson Ave location had shut down; That’sa Pizza continues today at other Traverse City locations (Long Lake Rd, Hammond Rd, Acme/Williamsburg), but not at 110 Munson. 

Jersey Mike’s Subs (2021–present)

• In 2021, a Jersey Mike’s Subs franchise moved in.

• Local business news in February/March 2021 said Jersey Mike’s would open in the “former That’sa Pizza space” at 110 Munson Ave, targeting a late-March grand opening. 

• Jersey Mike’s is still the current tenant, and their official store listing shows the address as 110 Munson Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686, phone (231) 421-1379, open daily. 

• Late ’70s / early ’80s: Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips

• ~1981–1984: Burger Square

• Mid ’80s–early ’90s: Dairy Queen

• Early ’90s: Schlotzsky’s Deli

• Mid ’90s–2000s: Luigi’s Pizzeria & Café / Mancino’s Pizza & Grinders (Gutowski family)

• 2010s–2020: That’sa Pizza

• 2021–now: Jersey Mike’s Subs

That’s the lineage of 110 Munson Ave: it’s basically been a rotating “fast casual / pizza / sandwiches” spot for ~40+ years, starting as fish & chips and ending up as East Coast subs. 

I grew up near there and it’s  a great little town.   Check out: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interlochen,_Michigan

– Episode Title: “Welcome to Interlochen” – Host: Mike Dell – Location: Interlochen, Michigan, 15 miles from host’s home – Personal Connection: Frequent visits for brunch and family gatherings – Key Feature: Interlochen Center for the Arts – a renowned performing and visual arts school – Population: 694 (2020 census), significantly increased by summer music camp attendees – Nearby Family: Sister lives in the area – Geographical Context: Reference to US highways nearby – Town Status: Unincorporated, with its own post office and ZIP code – Infrastructure: Small airport with two grass runways; ongoing tension with township regarding its existence – Name Origin: “Interlochen” – Latin for “between” and Scottish for “lakes,” located between Green Lake and Duck Lake – Concert Venue: Arts academy venue accommodates ~4,000, with views of Green Lake – Winter Activities: Ice fishing on Green Lake, driving across a frozen ice bridge – Community Memories: Hanging out at state park beach, deep-fried smelt culinary experience – Graduation Venue: Traverse City Public Schools holds ceremonies at Kresge Auditorium in Interlochen – Notable Alumni: Includes Chip Davis (Mannheim Steamroller) and singer Jewel – Next Episode Tease: Focus on an interesting building in Traverse City

He notes his participation in NaPodPomo, which he describes as the eighteenth year of the initiative that started in 2007. Mike encourages listeners to visit napodpromo.org for more information and to find a super mega feed that includes other participating shows for November.

The episode is intended to be a collection of short daily episodes, incorporating elements of history and nostalgia, although he humorously remarks that nostalgia can sometimes feel like a disease. Mike also addresses his recent health setback, mentioning that he had been feeling unwell, likening his condition to being kicked in the chest by a donkey, which has left him a bit scratchy in his voice.

He concludes the episode by expressing his plans to record daily updates throughout November, signaling the start of this new series.  #napodpomo25

NaPodPoMo catch all feed:  https://feed.informer.com/digests/ZOYLP5GJYK/feeder.rss

NaPodPoMo website https://napodpomo.org/

He mentions limited flying opportunities due to poor weather conditions and reflects on the stress he’s been experiencing, primarily caused by overthinking and various personal issues, including the passing of a colleague, Todd. Despite the challenges, he reassures listeners that Blueberry Podcasting is continuing without interruptions.

Mike shares how stress has affected his relaxation time, noting that reading often leads him to fall asleep rather than providing relief. He discusses his attempts to engage in leisure activities, including walking, but expresses reluctance to do so, feeling overwhelmed by a busy schedule.

He recounts a recent family trip to Minneapolis for his nephew’s wedding, where logistical concerns added to his stress. Mike reflects on how everything in his day feels scheduled and concludes that his time alone led him to spend the day watching YouTube instead of accomplishing more satisfactory activities.

The discussion shifts to seeking suggestions from listeners on how to alleviate stress, as Mike expresses his desire for feedback. He shares that he’s contemplating joining a gym but for different reasons, and he finds podcasting to be a therapeutic outlet.

Mike also touches on the role of AI in podcasting, revealing that he has experimented with AI-generated content and observes the need for authentic voices in the medium. He mentions plans to participate in National Podcast Posting Month (NAPODPOMO) by producing a series of thirty short episodes about life in Northern Michigan, which will feature various themed topics.

The episode concludes with Mike encouraging listeners to connect with him and express their thoughts on stress relief strategies and his upcoming podcast series.

There’s a lot of confusion, and even controversy, around this seemingly simple question. And if you’ve been in the podcasting game for any amount of time, you’ve likely heard a dozen different definitions.

According to WhatsAPodcast.com:

podcast (noun) Episodic multimedia content that is downloadable via RSS (“really simple syndication”). A podcast can be audio or video.

Yes, this is technically correct. But let’s be real. That doesn’t really explain what a podcast is in the way that matters to us as creators.

A Podcast Is a Distribution Method, Not Just a “Show”

At its core, a podcast is a show distributed via podcasting technology. Namely, RSS feeds. That’s it. The magic isn’t in the audio file or video format, It’s in how it gets to your audience. A podcast isn’t just a genre of content, it’s a method of delivery. That’s a crucial distinction we, as creators, need to understand…  Even if our audiences don’t.

Listeners (or viewers, if it’s video) might never think twice about RSS. But we should. RSS is the backbone of podcasting. It allows for decentralized distribution, meaning no single company owns or controls where or how your content is accessed. That’s not a bug, it’s a feature.

Why YouTube Isn’t a Podcast (And That’s Okay)

There’s a common argument: “If I post my show on YouTube, that’s a podcast, right?”

Well…  Not quite.

A video uploaded to YouTube is a video. You might also be running a podcast that features the same content, but unless it’s distributed via RSS, it’s not technically a podcast. It’s just another method of media distribution. And, There is NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT.

There are many ways to distribute a show:

• TV or radio broadcast
• YouTube or other video platforms
• Embedded audio on a website
• Live streaming
• Podcasting via RSS

The important thing is understanding what makes something a podcast: RSS-powered syndication that lets people subscribe (or follow) and receive new episodes automatically, in their preferred app, without being tied to any one platform.

Why This Matters to Independent Creators

You might ask, “Who cares if my content is called a podcast or not?”

Well, as an independent creator, you should care… at least a little. RSS keeps podcasting open and democratic. It’s what allows your show to appear on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts, Overcast, and hundreds of other directories, all without being locked into a single ecosystem.

When your content lives only on one platform, you’re at the mercy of that platform’s algorithm, terms of service, and monetization policies. With podcasting, you own your feed. That’s powerful.

Use Podcasting as One Tool in Your Creator Toolkit

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to choose just one path. You can distribute your content however you like.

Record your live radio show? Great turn that into a podcast. Record a video for YouTube? Strip the audio and publish it as a podcast. Do a podcast? Add video and stream it live. Repurpose your content across channels. Just understand the distinctions.

Podcasting is just one way to reach your audience. But it’s a way that gives you freedom, control, and ownership. And that’s why it’s worth preserving the true meaning of what a podcast is.

A podcast isn’t defined by whether it’s audio or video, entertaining, educational or just plain stupid. It’s defined by how it’s distributed. Via RSS. Understanding that gives you more power as a content creator, not less.

Keep creating. Keep sharing. And most importantly, keep owning your feed.

HAPPY PODCASTING!

Mike addresses the passing of his father in December, which has left him feeling a sense of missingness, particularly as he takes on household responsibilities his father used to manage. He also shares the recent unexpected death of his cohost Todd Cochrane, which has thrown his company, Blubrry Podcasting, into turmoil. Mike recounts attending Todd’s funeral, where many podcasting peers gathered to celebrate Todd’s life and legacy. He shares memories of attending Podcast Movement in Dallas with Todd and how their dynamic was central to the experience, highlighting the challenges he faces now without him.

The episode then transitions into updates on Mike’s life, including difficulties with time management, ongoing flight training, and personal projects around his home. He talks about the stress of caregiving and estate management for his family, as well as the trials of hauling campers and maintaining his mother’s camper for friends.

Mike also discusses his recent flight checkride and his experiences with repairing his truck, illustrating a hectic summer filled with both personal and emotional challenges. He mentions his plans for the upcoming winter, expressing hope for a more manageable snow removal routine.

As he continues, Mike describes renovations he’s undertaking at home and reflects on the need to update his podcast more frequently, acknowledging his last episode was significantly delayed. He shares his intention to keep listeners engaged and updated about both his personal life and the progress of his other show, Podcast Insider, which is currently on hiatus.

He concludes by thanking listeners for their support and asking them to stay tuned for future updates as he navigates the ongoing adjustments in his life, reaffirming the poignancy of the episode’s theme of missingness. Mike wraps up the episode with a reminder of the ongoing journey of understanding loss and the changes it brings.

This is a short demo of what AI can do forecasting the weather.   I’m not going to do this other than I wanted to see how it would sound.  ????

But one thing Apple Podcasts does really well is helping users discover new podcasts. I love that it gives you sample episodes without needing to subscribe first—that feature alone really caught my attention.

While I was at an event in Chicago recently, I had a chance to chat with someone from Apple. They showed me some features I hadn’t even noticed before—like the ability to save episodes for later without subscribing to the full podcast. I’m still not a fan of how the industry has moved from saying “subscribe” to “follow,” but I end up using both terms depending on the context.

One of the biggest things I’ve come to appreciate about Apple Podcasts is how well it processes audio and syncs across all my Apple devices. I can start listening on my desktop, pick it up on my iPhone, and even continue on the Apple TV without missing a beat. That cross-device sync is slick. Plus, I can access video podcasts through the Apple TV app—something Overcast doesn’t offer.

That said, there are definitely things I miss from Overcast. Apple Podcasts doesn’t have smart playlists. Instead, it uses something called “Stations,” which can pull in episodes from shows I choose, but I still have to manually line them up to play in the order I want. So while I’m enjoying the discovery side of Apple Podcasts, I’m still not sure if it’ll become my long-term app—I just really like how Overcast handles playlists.

Toward the end of the episode, I also talked a bit about what’s been going on personally. Spring has finally arrived here, and I’ve been spending time with family and working on a few projects—including updates to the camper and getting a ham radio setup installed. I’ve also been making progress on my website, so if you haven’t checked it out lately, I invite you to take a look. MikeDell.com

And of course, I’ll be reviewing more podcast apps down the road, so stay tuned—and thanks, as always, for listening.

One of the hardest things I’ve gone through recently is losing my dad. He passed away from lung cancer in early December 2024 after a long battle. Even though it was a peaceful passing, it’s still been really tough on the family.

This winter has been relentless. We’ve had a ridiculous amount of snow since Thanksgiving, and I’ve spent a lot of time plowing. Now, don’t get me wrong—I actually enjoy plowing snow—but after doing it over and over, it started to wear me down.

One silver lining is that I inherited my dad’s 2020 Toyota Tundra. It’s been a solid truck and has come in handy more times than I can count.

On a much sadder note, we had a rough time with our beagles, Benny and Percy. Percy started getting aggressive, and on Christmas, he attacked Benny badly. After multiple incidents, including one where Benny needed stitches at the emergency vet, we had to make the heartbreaking decision to put Percy down. It was incredibly difficult, but it had to be done for Benny’s safety.

Thankfully, the weather is starting to warm up a bit, and the snow is finally beginning to melt. I had to put my flying on hold for a while because of all the stress, but I’m hoping to get back in the air this spring.

Around the house, I’ve been working on a few projects—running conduit for internet and electrical lines. Unfortunately, I had a storage tent collapse under the weight of all that snow. That thing is a total loss, so I’m making plans to build something more permanent to store my yard equipment.

Before wrapping up, I just want to remind everyone to stay subscribed and check out my website for updates. I also post daily facts on social media if you’re into that sort of thing. And who knows—maybe in a future episode, I’ll even talk about politics. (Or maybe not!)

Thanks for sticking with me, and I’ll catch you in the next one!

As you might know already, this podcast was called the Benzoid Report for the first few years.  Also, the 400 is just the episodes that I numbered. I had a lot of other mini episodes, and experimental episodes the the number is likely 500 or so.  But for this purpose, 400 works!

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AI Shownotes: In this special 400th episode of “Mike Dell’s World,” host Mike Dell celebrates his podcasting journey and reflects on the evolution of his show and the medium. Recorded on the day before International Podcast Day, Mike reminisces about starting his podcast back in April 2005, initially under the name “The Benzoid Report,” which was later changed to “Mike Dell’s World” in 2008.

Mike shares his early fascination with talk radio which later transitioned into exploring podcasts as a new form of broadcasting. He recounts the technical challenges of the early days, like hand-rolling RSS feeds and filling his iPod with downloaded MP3s for entertainment during night shifts at a printing plant. Mike’s interest was sparked by pioneering podcasters and the desire to create his own show, despite his assertion that it was about ‘nothing in particular.’

Throughout the episode, Mike elaborates on the numerous other podcasts he has started (and sometimes stopped), covering topics from ham radio and strange news to aviation history and fast food. He highlights some enjoyable moments, like podcasting on the go and creating episodes about topics he loves. Mike also discusses his full-time role at Blueberry, grounding his career in the podcasting industry even further.

He candidly shares the challenge of maintaining a consistent podcasting schedule and advocates for keeping episodes as long or as short as the content requires, rather than stretching them to fit a time slot. Mike prefers the intimacy of audio podcasts over video, noting the unique one-on-one connection they offer with listeners.

Finally, Mike touches on broader topics, reflecting on the changing landscape of media and podcasting, sharing a desire for civility and unity amid political turmoil, and expressing optimism for the future of podcasting as a diverse and evolving field. He concludes by welcoming another 400 episodes and inviting listeners to contact him for podcasting advice, celebrating the communal and evolving nature of the medium.

We went to the Opening game for Michigan football last weekend. We camped in Ypsilanti Michigan. We also went to the Michigan Flight Museum https://miflightmuseum.org/ (formerly known as the Yankee air museum).

New hardware – Audiosigma Podmoble DSP – https://bswusa.com/audiosigma-podmobile-dsp/

Rodecaster Pro II – Nice, but quirky

Value 4 Value – https://podcastindex.org/apps?appTypes=app Podcasting 2.0 Webinar – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Gi53y2uMc8

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In the last episode, I talked about dumbing down the phone. A friend (Zack) gave me his old Light Phone II to play with. So far, I like it. It’s a bit too small to read comfortably but other than that, it’s great to not have something distracting. https://www.thelightphone.com/shop/products/light-phone-ii-black

I’m really thinking about buying the Light Phone III when it comes out. https://www.thelightphone.com/shop/products/light-phone-iii

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Having a lot of fun flying the RV-12is at Giving Wings in Traverse City – https://flygwa.com

https://www.vansaircraft.com/rv-12is/

I’m thinking a lot about maybe building an airplane. Not sure which one yet. Likely a Kolb or a Challenger. Something 2 place with a 60-100hp engine.

AI Shownotes:

In Episode 399 of “Mike Dell’s World,” host Mike Dell discusses a range of topics spanning personal updates, podcasting technology insights, and his experiences with new gadgets and flying. Starting with a personal update, Mike shares stories about his recent camping trip during the Labor Day weekend, his visit to the Michigan Flight Museum, and his recent sickness which he humorously calls “the plague.” He reflects on the local security concerns he observed during a visit to Ypsilanti and the inconvenience of parking nightmares in Ann Arbor.

Transitioning to podcast-related content, Mike introduces the new podcasting device he encountered at Podcast Movement in DC—the Audio Sigma PodMobile DSP. This device simplifies podcast recording with features like a noise gate and portability, working seamlessly with mobile platforms. He explains its advantages over other equipment such as the Rodecaster Pro, emphasizing its ease of use.

Mike then delves into advanced podcast technologies and services, such as various podcast apps that support new features like live streaming notifications and interactive elements like “boostograms” linked to cryptocurrency. He praises the efforts of the Podcast Index for fostering innovation and moving podcasting away from being dominated by big companies.

The conversation shifts to Mike’s experiments with reducing smartphone dependency. He discusses using a Light Phone, a device designed to minimize distractions by stripping down smartphone functionalities to essentials like calls, texts, and basic apps. Mike evaluates its benefits in helping users focus more on real-life interactions.

Lastly, Mike shares his enthusiasm for aviation, particularly his experiences flying an RV-12 IS sport plane, and contemplates building his own aircraft. He wraps up the episode by encouraging the audience to explore new podcasting technologies and reminisces about his past episodes and plans for future content.

Throughout the episode, Mike maintains a casual tone, mixing technical discussions with personal anecdotes and reflections on life’s simplicity and technological advancements in podcasting.

Mike begins by updating his listeners on his personal life, mentioning his recent shoulder surgery recovery and his return to flying. He also notes a change in his recording setup due to technical issues, leading to a lack of sound effects and music in this episode.

Mike shares that he’s started a new podcast with Mike Wilkerson, which will be available in video, audio, and on a YouTube channel. He talks about his experience with different podcast apps, praising features like smart playlists and privacy-focused platforms like Cast o Matic, Podverse, Fountain, and Podcast Guru.

The main topic of the episode revolves around smartphones, privacy, and the idea of ‘de-Googling’ one’s life. Mike discusses the consequences of using free apps, his intolerance for advertisements, and the consideration of using a ‘dumb’ phone. He mentions his decision to reduce Google’s presence in his personal life, although he still uses YouTube and Facebook for work and occasional personal posts.

Mike critically evaluates the necessity of always being connected, mentioning his preferences for minimal social media usage and the privacy implications of technologies like face ID. He expresses concerns about the habit-forming nature of smartphones, describing efforts to simplify his phone usage by removing unnecessary apps and switching to the Brave browser for privacy.

He references an article by the BBC about the resurgence of ‘dumb phones’ among younger generations, highlighting a particular model called the Nokia 3310. Mike then details his interest in a minimalist phone called the Light Phone, which aside from basic features, has limited apps to minimize distractions.

Mike also discusses an article that explains how to turn an iPhone into a ‘dumb phone’ and suggests getting rid of applications that track users or serve ads. He talks about living without the constant bombardment of news and entertainment, advocating for a more straightforward lifestyle.

He further discusses his experience in de-cluttering his media consumption, from podcasts to news and television, advocating for RSS feeds as an alternative to mainstream news sources. Mike also adds that he has been exploring off-grid living through various YouTube channels.

The episode wraps up with Mike mentioning his initiatives at Blueberry, including testing AI for generating chapter files and adding transcripts to make podcasts more accessible. He remarks on the resilience of RSS feeds in maintaining a decentralized platform for podcast content, independent of larger corporations like Apple or Spotify.

Mike concludes by encouraging listeners to tune into his more regular appearances on the Auto History Podcast and Podcast Insider for content related to automobiles and podcasting insights. Additionally, he promises to provide links in the show notes related to topics discussed in the episode, such as the BBC article, the Light Phone details, and the guide to dumbing down an iPhone.

– Mike updates on his shoulder surgery recovery and return to flying – Discusses changes in recording setup resulting in no sound effects or music – Announces a new podcast with Mike Wilkerson, including video and audio formats Auto History Podcast – Discusses podcast apps, favoring smart playlists and privacy-focused options like Castamatic, Podverse, Fountain, and Podcast Guru – Main topic on the downsides of smartphones and privacy concerns – Speaks on ‘de-Googling’ his life while still using YouTube and Facebook for essential work purposes – Advocates for reduced social media usage and is wary of technologies like face ID – Efforts to simplify phone use, including removing apps and using Brave browser – References BBC’s article on the popularity of ‘dumb phones’, mentions Nokia 3310 https://www.bbc.com/news/business-60763168 – Interest in a minimalist phone called the Light Phone to minimize distractions https://www.thelightphone.com/ – Details on making an iPhone a ‘dumb phone’ and removing tracking apps https://whatifididnt.com/blog/iphone-dumb-phone/ – Suggests living without constant news and entertainment, promoting a simpler lifestyle – Discusses decluttering media consumption and using RSS feeds over mainstream news – Explores off-grid living through YouTube channels – Talks about new initiatives at Blubrry, like testing AI for chapter files and adding transcripts – Remarks on the strength of RSS feeds for content decentralization away from big corporations https://netnewswire.com/ – Encourages listeners to check out his appearances on the Auto History Podcast and Podcast Insider

Why do I live in Traverse City?

Lots of reasons!  Listen to the show to find out why somebody that could live anywhere chooses to live in Northern Michigan. (Snow and All!)

This podcast is posted on MikeDell.com Go there and subscribe!

If you are using one of the new podcast apps, you can BOOST this show because I am enabled for Value 4 Value.

Subscribe to Podcasting 2.0 

This podcast is posted on MikeDell.com Go there and subscribe!

Short answer: It’s a scheduled weekly (or other time-frame) special purpose gathering of hams on a particular frequency.

Types of nets can be, but are not limited to, Club Nets, ARES (emergency communications), County hunters, friends schedules or just Rag chew nets.

They can be directed, roll call or round table.

Listen to the show to hear more.

This podcast is posted on MikeDell.com Go there and subscribe!

First flew in 1964,  Last flew in 2010.

I was on the F-111 for 8 of my 9 years in the USAF.

This podcast is posted on MikeDell.com Go there and subscribe!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Dynamics_F-111_Aardvark