Michigan Public Radio, NPR reached out to Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary in 2025 with an idea for a new podcast called Beyond the Shore.
That led to a visit from Editor Rebecca Williams and Digital Director Jodi Westrick. Neither had ever been to this part of the state or explored sanctuary waters. The sanctuary team was excited to give them a grand #GetIntoYourSanctuary experience, and kick off the podcast series that would feature stories from each of the Great Lakes.
It was a gorgeous September day when they arrived and sanctuary team members Sarah and Sophie were ready to take them to Besser Natural Area. Conditions were perfect – sunny skies, high 70s, no wind, water like glass. Rebecca and Jodi were immediately struck by the stunning shoreline and eager to see one of the most visited shipwrecks, Portland.
There was just one tiny mishap…but it made for a great story!
Take a listen or better yet, enjoy the video version of this trip to our beloved sanctuary!
