Listen to Our Playlist Inspired by: Michigan

Join Rick K. Jones as he journeys through Michigan's rich history and vibrant food scene, exploring everything from its Native American roots to its iconic automotive industry and unique local cuisines. Discover the stories behind famous dishes, legendary musicians, and cultural landmarks that define Michigan today. 

Main Topics Covered:
The Native American and French fur trading history shaping Michigan's early development
The impact of the Erie Canal on Michigan’s growth and settlement patterns
Michigan’s diverse food culture: Coney dogs, Detroit-style pizza, Middle Eastern cuisine, and iconic desserts like Mackinac fudge
The evolution of Michigan’s music scene with legends like Bob Seger and Smokey Robinson
Notable landmarks and cultural icons, including the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald and local festivals

 
Motown Records
Zenders of Frankenmuth
Zingerman's Deli
Hudsonville Ice Cream
Vernors Ginger Ale
Michigan Cherry Festival

 

 

Listen to Our Playlist Inspired by: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7IcklxCydiM689gBo8IoUt?si=QAhN37gRSwmuTcXYp_BwsA">Michigan</a>
Join Rick K. Jones as he journeys through Michigan's rich history and vibrant food scene, exploring everything from its Native American roots to its iconic automotive industry and unique local cuisines. Discover the stories behind famous dishes, legendary musicians, and cultural landmarks that define Michigan today.&nbsp;
Main Topics Covered:
<ul>
<li>The Native American and French fur trading history shaping Michigan's early development</li>
<li>The impact of the Erie Canal on Michigan&rsquo;s growth and settlement patterns</li>
<li>Michigan&rsquo;s diverse food culture: Coney dogs, Detroit-style pizza, Middle Eastern cuisine, and iconic desserts like Mackinac fudge</li>
<li>The evolution of Michigan&rsquo;s music scene with legends like Bob Seger and Smokey Robinson</li>
<li>Notable landmarks and cultural icons, including the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald and local festivals</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.motownrecords.com/">Motown Records</a></li>
<li><a href="https://zenders.com/">Zenders of Frankenmuth</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.zingermans.com/">Zingerman's Deli</a></li>
<li><a href="https://hudsonville.com/">Hudsonville Ice Cream</a></li>
<li><a href="https://vernors.com/">Vernors Ginger Ale</a></li>
<li><a href="https://michigancherryfestival.com/">Michigan Cherry Festival</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

UNITED TASTES OF AMERICA

Welcome to iHeart’s UNITED TASTES OF AMERICA new podcast series. This is part of iHeart’s comprehensive celebration of America’s 250th birthday all year long in 2026 .

For over 400 years, people from all over the world have crossed the ocean and entered the United States through the New York harbor and other Gateway harbors seeking a new life in America.

These people arrived not only with their hopes and dreams, but also with their culinary cuisines, customs, preferences, and talents.

These varied culinary traditions have created our own unique American cuisine with a blend of foods from around the Globe.

iHeart is proud to bring you this series of the best-of-the-best food dishes across America.

For this series and special event, we are visiting each of the 50 states to find one unique dish that best showcases the culinary history of that state. And to find one special restaurant to prepare this dish.

We will also showcase three additional restaurants from each state for wonderful culinary road trips.

These stories will be shared via both video and audio podcasts each week and a special video vignette distributed on iHeart’s You Tube page.

Additionally, each weekly podcast will include a musical playlist of songs from or about that state because like food, music has played such a great role in telling the story of the history of the United States.

It’s UNITED TASTES OF AMERICA exclusively from iHeart.

UNITED TASTES OF AMERICA
Welcome to iHeart&rsquo;s UNITED TASTES OF AMERICA new podcast series. This is part of iHeart&rsquo;s comprehensive celebration of America&rsquo;s 250th birthday all year long in 2026 .
For over 400 years, people from all over the world have crossed the ocean and entered the United States through the New York harbor and other Gateway harbors seeking a new life in America.
These people arrived not only with their hopes and dreams, but also with their culinary cuisines, customs, preferences, and talents.
These varied culinary traditions have created our own unique American cuisine with a blend of foods from around the Globe.
iHeart is proud to bring you this series of the best-of-the-best food dishes across America.
For this series and special event, we are visiting each of the 50 states to find one unique dish that best showcases the culinary history of that state. And to find one special restaurant to prepare this dish.
We will also showcase three additional restaurants from each state for wonderful culinary road trips.
These stories will be shared via both video and audio podcasts each week and a special video vignette distributed on iHeart&rsquo;s You Tube page.
Additionally, each weekly podcast will include a musical playlist of songs from or about that state because like food, music has played such a great role in telling the story of the history of the United States.
It&rsquo;s UNITED TASTES OF AMERICA exclusively from iHeart.

United Tastes of America

Episode 26: Michigan

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/c3992d90-6ae9-4162-8017-b48001385744/transcript

Check Out Our Playlist all about: ARKANSAS

Join Rick K. Jones as he explores Arkansas’s rich history and vibrant culinary traditions, from its Native American roots to beloved Southern dishes, and iconic foods like fried catfish and tamales. This episode highlights how Arkansas’s geography, history, and culture influence its unique flavors—perfect for food lovers and history buffs alike.

Key Topics:
The historical background of Arkansas, including its Native tribes, French exploration, and Civil Rights milestones
Important figures like Bill Clinton and Sam Walton, and their impacts on Arkansas’s identity
Signature Arkansas foods: fried dill pickles, chicken fried steak, barbecue, and duck gumbo
The significance of farm-raised catfish and local seafood, with featured spots like Dondie's Restaurant
Highlighting local culinary destinations: Hot Springs’ historic bathhouses, McClard’s barbecue, AQ Chicken House, and the unique riverboat-style restaurant in Des Arc
The role of agriculture: small gardens, chicken farming, rice production, and regional ingredients
Cultural influences: Mexican immigrants' impact on Southern Arkansas cuisine and local food innovations
Notable Arkansas beverages: Grapeette soda and Mountain Valley Water

Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Exploring Arkansas’s culinary history and cultural significance
00:21 - Delicious homemade carnitas tacos recipe and peppers from the garden
01:09 - Celebrating Levin’s fifth birthday and family celebrations in Arkansas
02:02 - Arkansas’s history from Louisiana Purchase to Civil War and Civil Rights movement
03:00 - Arkansas’s evolution from plantation economy to small farms and civil rights activism
04:27 - Influential figures: Bill Clinton’s rise and the Clinton Library’s significance
05:23 - The legacy of Sam Walton and Walmart’s impact on Arkansas and the country
06:17 - The regional cuisine: from mountain foods to delta specialties
07:41 - Arkansas’s famous chicken dishes, especially from Tyson Foods
08:40 - Local seafood: duck gumbo, catfish ponds, and seafood in Des Arc
09:08 - Unique Arkansas foods: possum pie and local soft drinks
09:56 - The importance of farm-raised catfish and seafood marketing campaigns
10:27 - Feature on Gulf Shores campaigns and Coach Brawls’s favorite fried catfish
12:16 - Des Arc’s riverboat restaurant and the story behind Dondie's
13:14 - Fire recovery at Dondie's and the Scott family’s restaurant journey
15:33 - Spotlight on fried catfish, a family favorite, at Dondie’s
17:06 - Hot Springs: its history as a health resort and home of Bill Clinton
17:58 - The Pancake Shop: iconic breakfast spot with blueberry pancakes and sugar-cured ham
18:47 - Barbecue traditions in Hot Springs at McClard’s and local chicken houses
19:39 - Reflection on the growth of Walmart and the iconic Arkansas food scene
20:07 - Wrapping up with next stops: Michigan and the ongoing series "United Taste of America.

 

 

Check Out Our Playlist all about: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4tjHM6osAVap2DEb01Ym0T?si=xHLVM7nxS7K6CifEiscp-w">ARKANSAS</a>
Join Rick K. Jones as he explores Arkansas&rsquo;s rich history and vibrant culinary traditions, from its Native American roots to beloved Southern dishes, and iconic foods like fried catfish and tamales. This episode highlights how Arkansas&rsquo;s geography, history, and culture influence its unique flavors&mdash;perfect for food lovers and history buffs alike.
Key Topics:
<ul>
<li>The historical background of Arkansas, including its Native tribes, French exploration, and Civil Rights milestones</li>
<li>Important figures like Bill Clinton and Sam Walton, and their impacts on Arkansas&rsquo;s identity</li>
<li>Signature Arkansas foods: fried dill pickles, chicken fried steak, barbecue, and duck gumbo</li>
<li>The significance of farm-raised catfish and local seafood, with featured spots like Dondie's Restaurant</li>
<li>Highlighting local culinary destinations: Hot Springs&rsquo; historic bathhouses, McClard&rsquo;s barbecue, AQ Chicken House, and the unique riverboat-style restaurant in Des Arc</li>
<li>The role of agriculture: small gardens, chicken farming, rice production, and regional ingredients</li>
<li>Cultural influences: Mexican immigrants' impact on Southern Arkansas cuisine and local food innovations</li>
<li>Notable Arkansas beverages: Grapeette soda and Mountain Valley Water</li>
</ul>
Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Exploring Arkansas&rsquo;s culinary history and cultural significance 00:21 - Delicious homemade carnitas tacos recipe and peppers from the garden 01:09 - Celebrating Levin&rsquo;s fifth birthday and family celebrations in Arkansas 02:02 - Arkansas&rsquo;s history from Louisiana Purchase to Civil War and Civil Rights movement 03:00 - Arkansas&rsquo;s evolution from plantation economy to small farms and civil rights activism 04:27 - Influential figures: Bill Clinton&rsquo;s rise and the Clinton Library&rsquo;s significance 05:23 - The legacy of Sam Walton and Walmart&rsquo;s impact on Arkansas and the country 06:17 - The regional cuisine: from mountain foods to delta specialties 07:41 - Arkansas&rsquo;s famous chicken dishes, especially from Tyson Foods 08:40 - Local seafood: duck gumbo, catfish ponds, and seafood in Des Arc 09:08 - Unique Arkansas foods: possum pie and local soft drinks 09:56 - The importance of farm-raised catfish and seafood marketing campaigns 10:27 - Feature on Gulf Shores campaigns and Coach Brawls&rsquo;s favorite fried catfish 12:16 - Des Arc&rsquo;s riverboat restaurant and the story behind Dondie's 13:14 - Fire recovery at Dondie's and the Scott family&rsquo;s restaurant journey 15:33 - Spotlight on fried catfish, a family favorite, at Dondie&rsquo;s 17:06 - Hot Springs: its history as a health resort and home of Bill Clinton 17:58 - The Pancake Shop: iconic breakfast spot with blueberry pancakes and sugar-cured ham 18:47 - Barbecue traditions in Hot Springs at McClard&rsquo;s and local chicken houses 19:39 - Reflection on the growth of Walmart and the iconic Arkansas food scene 20:07 - Wrapping up with next stops: Michigan and the ongoing series "United Taste of America.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Episode 25: Arkansas

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/0b70f52d-b0be-41fe-b222-b47800fab693/transcript

Listen to Our Playlist : MISSOURI

Today Rick K. Jones travels to the "Show-Me" State: Missouri. Discover the rich history, cultural landmarks, and iconic foods of Missouri in this mouth watering episode. From the Native American roots and French exploration to the vibrant food scene and notable figures, you’ll get a comprehensive tour of the Show Me State. 

Main Topics:
The historical significance of Missouri from Native Americans to early European explorers
The role of Missouri in westward expansion and the Civil War
Unique Missouri cuisine including toasted ravioli, Kansas City barbecue, and St. Louis custards
Notable Missouri figures like Harry Truman, Jimmy Doolittle, and Chuck Berry
The cultural contributions in music, sports, and American history

Key Insights:
Missouri's strategic location along major rivers influenced its development and settlement patterns.
The state’s complex history with slavery, the Civil War, and post-war growth shaped its identity.
Famous dishes like toasted ravioli were reportedly born out of accidental culinary mishaps, now celebrated as local staples.
Kansas City’s BBQ and St. Louis’s distinct pizza and frozen custard are gastronomic highlights.
Missouri has produced influential figures in military, politics, and music, leaving a lasting legacy.
Book about Missouri’s history
Charlie Gito’s restaurant
Anheuser-Busch
Gooey Butter Cake recipe
Ted Drew’s ice cream

 

Listen to Our Playlist : <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/39DEoE754pSFOL8ke1Uxzb?si=vnEhh3XNR3qsVRnRBqi7Dg">MISSOURI</a>
Today Rick K. Jones travels to the "Show-Me" State: Missouri. Discover the rich history, cultural landmarks, and iconic foods of Missouri in this mouth watering episode. From the Native American roots and French exploration to the vibrant food scene and notable figures, you&rsquo;ll get a comprehensive tour of the Show Me State.&nbsp;
Main Topics:
<ul>
<li>The historical significance of Missouri from Native Americans to early European explorers</li>
<li>The role of Missouri in westward expansion and the Civil War</li>
<li>Unique Missouri cuisine including toasted ravioli, Kansas City barbecue, and St. Louis custards</li>
<li>Notable Missouri figures like Harry Truman, Jimmy Doolittle, and Chuck Berry</li>
<li>The cultural contributions in music, sports, and American history</li>
</ul>
Key Insights:
<ul>
<li>Missouri's strategic location along major rivers influenced its development and settlement patterns.</li>
<li>The state&rsquo;s complex history with slavery, the Civil War, and post-war growth shaped its identity.</li>
<li>Famous dishes like toasted ravioli were reportedly born out of accidental culinary mishaps, now celebrated as local staples.</li>
<li>Kansas City&rsquo;s BBQ and St. Louis&rsquo;s distinct pizza and frozen custard are gastronomic highlights.</li>
<li>Missouri has produced influential figures in military, politics, and music, leaving a lasting legacy.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Missouri+history&amp;tag=example">Book about Missouri&rsquo;s history</a></li>
<li><a href="http://charliegitos.com/">Charlie Gito&rsquo;s restaurant</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.anheuser-busch.com/">Anheuser-Busch</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.example.com/gooey-butter-cake">Gooey Butter Cake recipe</a></li>
<li><a href="https://teddrews.com/">Ted Drew&rsquo;s ice cream</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

Episode 24: Missouri

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/680f1536-e88c-45b2-bf60-b4720111d9c0/transcript

Listen to Our Playlist Inspired by: MAINE

Today Rick K. Jones is taking us to one of his favorite places: Maine. Discover the iconic dishes of Maine, including its famous lobster rolls, blueberry farms, and historic coastal towns. Host Rick K. Jones takes you on a flavorful journey through Maine’s unique culture, from early explorations to modern-day foodie hotspots.

Main Topics Covered:
Maine’s historical roots and European influences
The evolution of Maine’s lobster industry and lobster rolls
Maine’s blueberry production and seafood delicacies
Notable towns like Portland and Spruce Head Island
Signature dishes including clam bakes, whoopie pies, and Maine brown bread
Regional tourism and culinary experiences

In this episode:
The origin story of Maine’s name and colonial history
How Maine’s geography shaped its maritime economy and naval contributions
The significance of lobster fishing and how lobster rolls became a cultural icon
Key seafood specialties like clam bakes, cod, and oysters
The story behind McLoons, a beloved Maine lobster shack, and its seasonal operations
Insights into Portland’s vibrant seafood scene and notable restaurants like Eventide Oyster Company
Fun facts about Maine’s musical influence and celebrities from the state

Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction to Maine’s culinary heritage and cultural significance
(0:29) - The family-friendly atmosphere of Maine’s restaurants and local traditions
(1:17) - Maine’s exploration history and European influences
(2:16) - The naming debate and colonial territorial disputes
(3:13) - Maine’s role in the Revolutionary War as a privateer hub
(4:12) - The patriotism of Mainers and early industry contributions
(5:11) - Maine’s admission to the Union and the Missouri Compromise
(6:10) - The importance of lumber, shipbuilding, and textile mills
(7:38) - Civil War hero Joshua Chamberlain and Maine’s political legacy
(8:34) - The contrasting coast and interior poverty in Maine
(9:11) - Maine’s blueberry industry and coastal seafood specialties
(10:40) - Cod fishing history and seafood delicacies like clam bakes and snapper hot dogs
(11:35) - Unique treats like Needham’s candies and Irish coffee
(12:32) - Maine’s bread and lobster dishes, including the iconic lobster roll at McLoons
(13:32) - The fascinating history of Maine’s lobster industry and the story of McLoons
(14:30) - The scenic beauty of Spruce Head Island and seafood offerings
(15:43) - The seasonal operations of Maine lobster farms
(17:33) - How McLoons’ success is rooted in genuineness and quality
(18:28) - Maine’s lobster seasonality and shipping options
(19:34) - Portland’s reputation as a top foodie city and seafood destinations
(21:29) - Maine’s iconic blueberry pancakes and lobster-centric menus
(22:54) - Maine’s musical heritage and notable artists
(23:23) - Teaser for next episode on Missouri

Resources & Links:
McLoons Lobster Shack
Eventide Oyster Company
Gold Belly Lobster Shipments
Portland, Maine Tourism

 

Listen to Our Playlist Inspired by: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6CqO6Tnqq1iMXS1x1PxlH8?si=eoKzUMHITrqqYXC8g21sIw">MAINE</a>
Today Rick K. Jones is taking us to one of his favorite places: Maine. Discover the iconic dishes of Maine, including its famous lobster rolls, blueberry farms, and historic coastal towns. Host Rick K. Jones takes you on a flavorful journey through Maine&rsquo;s unique culture, from early explorations to modern-day foodie hotspots.
Main Topics Covered:
<ul>
<li>Maine&rsquo;s historical roots and European influences</li>
<li>The evolution of Maine&rsquo;s lobster industry and lobster rolls</li>
<li>Maine&rsquo;s blueberry production and seafood delicacies</li>
<li>Notable towns like Portland and Spruce Head Island</li>
<li>Signature dishes including clam bakes, whoopie pies, and Maine brown bread</li>
<li>Regional tourism and culinary experiences</li>
</ul>
In this episode:
<ul>
<li>The origin story of Maine&rsquo;s name and colonial history</li>
<li>How Maine&rsquo;s geography shaped its maritime economy and naval contributions</li>
<li>The significance of lobster fishing and how lobster rolls became a cultural icon</li>
<li>Key seafood specialties like clam bakes, cod, and oysters</li>
<li>The story behind McLoons, a beloved Maine lobster shack, and its seasonal operations</li>
<li>Insights into Portland&rsquo;s vibrant seafood scene and notable restaurants like Eventide Oyster Company</li>
<li>Fun facts about Maine&rsquo;s musical influence and celebrities from the state</li>
</ul>
Timestamps:
<ul>
<li>(00:00) - Introduction to Maine&rsquo;s culinary heritage and cultural significance</li>
<li>(0:29) - The family-friendly atmosphere of Maine&rsquo;s restaurants and local traditions</li>
<li>(1:17) - Maine&rsquo;s exploration history and European influences</li>
<li>(2:16) - The naming debate and colonial territorial disputes</li>
<li>(3:13) - Maine&rsquo;s role in the Revolutionary War as a privateer hub</li>
<li>(4:12) - The patriotism of Mainers and early industry contributions</li>
<li>(5:11) - Maine&rsquo;s admission to the Union and the Missouri Compromise</li>
<li>(6:10) - The importance of lumber, shipbuilding, and textile mills</li>
<li>(7:38) - Civil War hero Joshua Chamberlain and Maine&rsquo;s political legacy</li>
<li>(8:34) - The contrasting coast and interior poverty in Maine</li>
<li>(9:11) - Maine&rsquo;s blueberry industry and coastal seafood specialties</li>
<li>(10:40) - Cod fishing history and seafood delicacies like clam bakes and snapper hot dogs</li>
<li>(11:35) - Unique treats like Needham&rsquo;s candies and Irish coffee</li>
<li>(12:32) - Maine&rsquo;s bread and lobster dishes, including the iconic lobster roll at McLoons</li>
<li>(13:32) - The fascinating history of Maine&rsquo;s lobster industry and the story of McLoons</li>
<li>(14:30) - The scenic beauty of Spruce Head Island and seafood offerings</li>
<li>(15:43) - The seasonal operations of Maine lobster farms</li>
<li>(17:33) - How McLoons&rsquo; success is rooted in genuineness and quality</li>
<li>(18:28) - Maine&rsquo;s lobster seasonality and shipping options</li>
<li>(19:34) - Portland&rsquo;s reputation as a top foodie city and seafood destinations</li>
<li>(21:29) - Maine&rsquo;s iconic blueberry pancakes and lobster-centric menus</li>
<li>(22:54) - Maine&rsquo;s musical heritage and notable artists</li>
<li>(23:23) - Teaser for next episode on Missouri</li>
</ul>
Resources &amp; Links:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.mcloons.com/">McLoons Lobster Shack</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.eventideoyster.com/">Eventide Oyster Company</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goldbelly.com/">Gold Belly Lobster Shipments</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.visitportland.com/">Portland, Maine Tourism</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

Episode 23: Maine

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/0ffe9013-6a08-4a0e-9c06-b46b011d96ed/transcript

Episode 26: Michigan

United Tastes of America

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