Welcome to Episode 41
In this episode, Stephan reflects on growing up in Mississippi, learning the art of conversation in his grandfather’s mercantile store, and how those early lessons shaped his approach to business, community, and podcasting. He shares the story behind launching a podcast rooted in connection, storytelling, and preserving local history — even when it wasn’t financially lucrative.
Through 250 episodes, Stephan captured voices that might otherwise have been lost: community leaders, business owners, and elders whose stories defined life in Jackson and the American West. He opens up about imposter syndrome, the realities of podcast growth, the myth of overnight success, and the difficult but necessary decision to eventually say no and step away.
This is a conversation about legacy, patience, boundaries, and why meaningful work doesn’t always show up on a balance sheet.
Key Topics Covered
* Growing up in a Southern mercantile store and learning human connection
* Why conversation and eye contact still matter in a digital world
* The real work behind starting and sustaining a podcast
* Imposter syndrome and self-doubt as a creator
* Preserving stories from elders and community pioneers
* Why podcasting doesn’t guarantee money — and why it can still be worth it
* The slow truth behind “overnight success”
* Learning to say no and setting boundaries with your time
* Ending a podcast with intention and gratitude
Episode 041
Release Date: January 20, 2026
Host: Toby Lyles
Guest: Stephan C. Abrams, The Jackson Hole Connection
Get in touch with the Stephan
Website: https://thejacksonholeconnection.com
Email: stephan@wineliquorbeer.com
links:
Spotify:
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@twentyfoursound7322/playlists
https://odysee.com/@VoicesontheWind
Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/TwentyFourSound
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/toby.lyles.1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobyblyles
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toby-lyles-twentyfoursound
Substack: https://votw.substack.com/
Website: https://twentyfoursound.com
