Celebrating 15 Years of Culinary and Musical Excellence on Lick the Plate Radio
This week, Lick the Plate Radio, hosted by David Boylan, proudly celebrates a major milestone: 15 years on air and 2,000 captivating shows. This landmark episode not only honors the enduring legacy of the program but also pays tribute to one of Michigan's most beloved musical institutions, the Scottville Clown Band. Recorded aboard their tour bus during the vibrant Cedar Polka Fest, the episode features interviews with the band members alongside their fascinating backstory, showcasing how two distinct cultural landmarks have combined to create an unforgettable listening experience.
Since its inception in 2011, Lick the Plate has connected audiences with an eclectic array of chefs, restaurateurs, musicians, and other inspiring personalities from diverse backgrounds. The program has not only entertained but has also enriched lives through meaningful storytelling that transcends the ordinary. Boylan designed the show to diverge from typical culinary interviews, aiming instead to explore the colorful lives and stories of those behind the dishes. Guests share their cultural influences, favorite meals, and musical tastes, ultimately weaving their personal narratives into the rich tapestry of culinary storytelling.
The Scottville Clown Band, founded over a century ago in 1903, brings a delightful mix of music, humor, and creativity. Their performances embody a spirit unmatched in the Michigan music scene—with outrageous costumes and a joyful ambiance that inspires community engagement. The band has remained committed to supporting youth music education through scholarships and grants, showcasing their dedication not just to entertainment but to fostering new generations of musicians. It is this infectious spirit and commitment to community that makes them an ideal guest for this momentous occasion.
In Boylan’s words, "Reaching this milestone is both humbling and incredibly gratifying. I couldn’t think of a more appropriate guest for our 2000th show than the Scottville Clown Band. They are fun, unpredictable, and incredibly original—reflecting the breadth of guests we’ve showcased since our beginning. I'm thankful to every guest who trusted us with their story and to our listeners, sponsors, and radio partners who have kept this adventure alive for so many years."
The radio show was launched in San Diego on 102.1 KPRI and quickly grew in popularity. Lick the Plate transitioned to various stations over the years, including KBZT-FM, KSON-FM, and others within the Entercom San Diego network before expanding its reach to Detroit-Windsor and Northern Michigan markets. Each transition furthered Boylan’s ambition to highlight not only culinary delights but also the narratives behind them, resonating with audiences from diverse regions.
The innovative combination of culinary storytelling, music, and personal anecdotes forms the signature of Lick the Plate. Episodes have been set in diverse locations including kitchens, farms, breweries, and even circus trains. Additionally, the annual “Fish Stories” series showcases Boylan's passion for fishing and storytelling, featuring captivating tales from charters and anglers alike.
As the Lick the Plate journey continues, the show now resonates with an expansive audience through both radio broadcasts and online streaming via platforms like the Audacy app. Ferndale Radio Program Director Dave Kim comments on the significance of the show’s success, saying, "I've followed Lick the Plate since its early days and always appreciated its originality, making it a fantastic fit within our eclectic programming here at Ferndale Radio."
With 2,000 episodes behind them, Lick the Plate looks towards the future, eager to continue sharing the wonderful stories that inspire and connect communities across culinary, cultural, and musical landscapes. For avid fans and new listeners alike, there’s never been a better time to tune in and experience the magic behind Lick the Plate Radio’s milestone celebration.
To learn more about Lick the Plate’s journey, upcoming episodes, and the guests featured throughout their history, visit
Lick-the-Plate.com. Here’s to many more years of storytelling, celebration, and connection through the art of food and music.