In this episode of the Life In Michigan podcast, we sit down with Maria Skrzynski, Content Strategist at Destination Ann Arbor, to explore her journey into travel storytelling, her love for Ypsilanti, and the creative heart of Michigan.

Maria shares how a front-desk role at the Ypsilanti Visitor Center sparked a passion that eventually led her to shape regional storytelling through Ypsi Real and Destination Ann Arbor. We talk about building authentic content that reflects local communities, inclusive marketing campaigns, and why she believes storytelling starts with real people and real places.

Highlights include:

* Maria’s personal and professional love affair with Ypsilanti

* The story behind Ypsi Real and how it supports local identity

* Her creative involvement with Riverside Arts Center and the arts scene across Washtenaw County

* Reflections on visibility, representation, and finding your people

* Local gems like Bitter Truth, Hidden King, and the Drop Top pizza scene in Saline

We also dish on new and favorite Michigan spots—from upscale eats to funky record stores—and wrap up with Maria’s perfect Michigan day.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode:

* Ypsi Real

* Destination Ann Arbor

* Riverside Arts Center

* Pride Source article: “Finding Your People”

* Creative Washtenaw

* Hidden King

* Drop Top Pizza

* Manchester Brewing

* Echelon

* Water Tower Distilling Co.

* Creative Mornings A2

* 22 North Gallery

Follow Maria’s work:

Maria’s profile at Destination Ann Arbor