Newport State Park is the only dark-sky designated park in Wisconsin, but if light pollution continues to grow in the surrounding area, it may be hard to keep it that way. Debra Fitzgerald joins Myles Dannhausen Jr. to discuss recent efforts to stop light pollution from encroaching on the park in northern Door County, and what individual property owners can do to help. Plus, they discuss why a bill was needed to stop people from throwing batteries in the trash, and why the city of Sturgeon Bay did not renew a contract with a security camera company.

The Door County Maritime Museum is celebrating a record-breaking year with a free community appreciation day and celebration on Friday and Saturday, April 3 and 4. Sam Perlman joins Myles Dannhausen Jr. to talk about the growth of the museum and the hidden treasures available to explore within its walls this weekend and beyond.

Winter Storm Elsa was a historic experience for Door County residents this week, dropping 2-3-plus feet of snow on the peninsula. Debra Fitzgerald and Myles Dannhausen Jr. discuss how it hit residents and how the county responded – and how we're still digging out of the mess.

Artificial Intelligence is changing the world in ways that seemed unthinkable to most of us just a few years ago. With each week the advancements appear to be changing new aspects of our lives. To discuss the rapid advancement, Myles Dannhausen Jr. talks to Prof. Thomas Baer of Stanford University, who will be leading a seminar series at Björklunden about AI and its implications in June. They discuss its growing impact on programming, health care, the workplace and creative pursuits. They also discuss its role in the Iran War and the growing ethical concerns about its use in warfare and the resources it consumes. ,

Jason Estes on 30 Years Tossing Pies at Sonny's by Door County Pulse Podcast

Debra Fitzgerald talks with Vanessa McGowan, the New Zealand-born, classically trained bassist, band leader, and music-industry veteran whose career spans over two decades. A Baileys Harbor resident since 2020 via Nashville, Vanessa shares stories from her extensive touring experience, including working with Grammy-winning artists like Sugarland, Jennifer Nettles, Brandy Clark, and currently leading the band for multi-Grammy-winning Molly Tuttle. She also gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at life as both musician and manager – on stage, on TV shows, on the tour bus, and reflecting on lessons learned since first landing in Nashville. Photos by Eli Spotts.

The tables are turned in this episode, when Annika Johnson interviews Myles Dannhausen Jr. about his journey from pizza tosser to reporter and many steps in between. Originally produced for the Al Johnson's YouTube series Door County Girl, this episode features two people who grew up in businesses at the feet of their parents and includes a look at life growing up here, the restaurant life, and why all politicians should have to bartend.

Painter Ram Rojas joins Debra Fitzgerald for a conversation about his journey from Venezuela to Door County, his classical training around the world, and the people and landscapes that have shaped his work. He reflects on what decades of painting have taught him about place, memory and community – from his studio practice in Ellison Bay to the public murals he's created across the peninsula, including the former Nelson True Value mural in Baileys Harbor, as well as works at The Clearing and the Door Community Auditorium.

Dominic Frandrup, Director of Door County Libraries, sits down with Debra Fitzgerald to discuss the latest developments across the county’s eight library branches. The conversation explores how these public, community-centered spaces are governed, funded and operated, as well as ongoing efforts to strengthen the library system. Consultants from Rethinking Libraries have been working with the county and the Library Board to identify opportunities to improve efficiency. With more than 75% of Door County residents holding library cards, Frandrup highlights the strong community support for local libraries, trends in circulation, and how these vital public spaces continue to evolve.

Few restaurant openings have been as hotly anticipated as that of La Sirenna last summer. And no wonder - it’s the first time a restaurant has opened with a Michelin and James Beard pedigree. Chef Carlos Salgado and his wife and business partner Emilie Coulson Salgado join Myles Dannhausen Jr. to talk about what called them to Door County from California, how their restaurant vision was formed, life in family restaurants and what’s to come from the kitchen at La Sirenna.

Today, we’re diving into Leadership Door County, an organization that has been quietly shaping the future of our community for more than three decades. Since 1990, Leadership Door County has brought together professionals from across industries for an immersive, nine-month experience that goes far beyond traditional leadership training. It’s about understanding Door County at its core—its people, its challenges, and the opportunities that will define what comes next. Each year, a small group of participants steps into monthly sessions filled with candid conversations, expert insight, hands-on learning, and real relationship-building with leaders from every corner of the county. The mission is simple but powerful: challenge the way we think, strengthen leadership skills, and inspire people to actively shape the future of Door County. Joining me today are two leaders who know this work from the inside out. Regan Hendrickson, Door County Family Court Commissioner and Register in Probate, brings a unique perspective from the heart of our local judicial system. And Kyle Veeser, Chief Deputy and Undersheriff with the Door County Sheriff’s Office, offers insight from the front lines of public safety and community leadership. This conversation is about leadership, service, and why investing in people is one of the most important things a community can do.