Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of one great travel story.
In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with London-based writer Emma John, author of three books and Afar contributing writer, who recently visited Door County, Wisconsin—her 43rd U.S. state. Nicknamed "the Cape Cod of the Midwest," this sleepy peninsula surprised Emma with its unique blend of small-town charm and unexpected sophistication.
Emma shares her discoveries about "Midwest Kind"—a cultural commitment to helping others that goes far beyond Southern hospitality—and reveals why Wisconsin wine is having a serious moment thanks to climate-conscious vintners. She also discusses the young entrepreneurs breathing new life into this traditional summer destination while staying true to its authentic character.
On this episode you'll learn:
What makes "Midwest Kind" different from other forms of American hospitality
How climate change is creating unexpected opportunities for Wisconsin's wine industry
Why Door County attracts young entrepreneurs who are modernizing without losing authenticity
The hidden gems Emma discovered on her journey through Wisconsin
Don't miss these moments:
[04:00] Emma's revelation about Midwest Kind and the Azerbaijani student whose college friends drove hours just to help him move
[06:00] The surprising quality of Wisconsin wines and why winemakers are returning home from Washington State
[09:00] The charming town of Cedarburg and Emma's newfound obsession with antique jewelry stores
[15:00] Why Door County's lakefront feels like Norwegian fjords—and attracted so many Scandinavian settlers
[18:00] Emma's desire to return to Washington Island for its old-time music festival
Resources:
Read Emma's complete Afar story about Door County, Wisconsin
Follow Emma John for more travel insights
Explore Door County's 30+ islands and state parks
Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.
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