Shows
Southern GentlemenCounty Fairs & Buried Whiskey TreasureIn this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze are back with a jam-packed show full of Southern charm, curious discoveries, and exciting announcements. First up, they reveal the official list of retail partners now carrying the first ever Southern Gentlemen Camo Hat! Complete list below. Then they announce some brand-spankin'-new ways you can connect with the show, including - drumroll please - a toll free phone number. That’s right, we’ve gone full Southern Gentlemen Hotline. Chris shares some stories from a recent family trip to the county fair —...2025-08-071h 10Southern GentlemenStrawberry Sweet Tea, Sharp Cuts, and Secret EpisodesIn this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris and Winston crack open some Alabama-made strawberry sweet tea and catch up on a few current events with their usual mix of humor and hot takes. Chris reviews a new-fangled wallet he just purchased, then shares a life-changing moment he recently had at the barber shop - yes, really. Plus, the fellas announce their very first Patreon-exclusive episode, now live at patreon.com/southerngentlemen. If you want even more Southern banter, behind-the-scenes goodness, and off-the-record stories… that’s where to find it. Grab a glass and sett...2025-07-311h 03Southern GentlemenZach Top & The Summer Uniform DilemmaIn this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris is contemplating a bold new fashion choice that might just define his official “summer uniform,” and Winston has thoughts. Then the fellas dive into the main course: Chris introduces Winston (and you) to one of his new favorite voices in country music - Zach Top. He plays three songs and the guys break down what makes this fella so dang good. They wrap things up with a couple of questions from The Male Bag, where listeners ask everything from serious to silly. Saddle up, it’s a good one.2025-07-2436 minSouthern GentlemenTomato Pie + Our Review of The Waterfront on NetflixAfter a week off (thanks to Chris’ sickly immune system), the boys are back behind the mics for another round of Southern charm and questionable opinions. Chris and Winston catch up on life - including the curious case of tomato pie (which Winston just discovered is a real thing) and the homecoming of Huck & Birdie, Chris' two German Shepherd pups fresh outta doggy boot camp. Then it’s time to talk TV. Specifically, the Netflix Original Series The Waterfront. Let’s just say… bless its heart. The Southern Gentlemen give it a fair shake before diving into a spoiler...2025-07-1751 minSouthern GentlemenFunniest Southern Sayings (Some We've Never Even Heard!)Our first ever Southern Gentlemen Camo Hat is now available for preorder RIGHT HERE! Only a few left, so snag yours before they're gone. In this laugh-out-loud episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze dive headfirst into the wild world of Southern sayings - some charming, some confusing, and some downright bizarre. From "Eatin' onions and tellin' secrets" to "That dog won’t hunt," the fellas unpack dozens of oddball expressions, many of which they’d never even heard before (and they’re pretty dang Southern themselves). It’s a hilarious ride through the colorfu...2025-07-0347 minSouthern GentlemenKindness Ain’t Weakness: Southern Hospitality in a Divided WorldOur first ever Southern Gentlemen Camo Hat is now available for preorder RIGHT HERE! Super limited availability, so snag yours before they're gone. In this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze tackle a heavy truth: the world feels angrier and more divided than ever. Folks are shouting, canceling, and clashing over everything—and it’s exhausting. But what if Southern hospitality isn’t just for front porches and dinner tables? What if it’s a secret weapon for real change? Chris and Winston dig into how we as Southern...2025-06-261h 15Southern GentlemenDid They Copy That Song?Be sure to sign up for our email list at https://thesoutherngentlemen.com if you want first dibs on our first ever Southern Gentlemen Camo Hat! In this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze dive into a curious case of déjà vu in the world of modern country music. Two hit songs—different artists, nearly identical sound. Is it inspiration, coincidence, or something more? The guys break down the similarities between the tracks and use the moment to explore the formula for a "popular" country song today. They also get in...2025-06-1924 minSouthern GentlemenSouthern Dad Gift GuideBe sure to sign up for our email list at https://thesoutherngentlemen.com if you want first dibs on our first ever Southern Gentlemen Camo Hat! In this special Father's Day episode of The Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze each bring three hand-picked items to the table that they believe every Southern dad would love. From grilling gear to outdoor essentials, this Southern-inspired gift guide is packed with thoughtful, rugged, and downright cool recommendations. Watch the video version on YouTube! Featured brands include: 🦆 Chene Gear – for the outdoorsy dad who...2025-06-121h 09Southern GentlemenMust Have Skills For Southern MenBe sure to sign up for our email list at https://thesoutherngentlemen.com if you want first dibs on our first ever Southern Gentlemen Camo Hat! In this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze break down the essential life skills every Southern man ought to have in his back pocket. From grilling a perfect steak to building a fire that would make your granddaddy proud, the fellas cover the timeless talents that separate the boys from the men. They also share why having a signature cocktail is non-negotiable—and how to whip...2025-06-0551 minSouthern GentlemenMemorial Day, Earnhardt, and Buc-ee'sIn this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze recap their Memorial Day weekends, then dive into the first two episodes of the new Amazon Prime docuseries Earnhardt, unpacking the legacy, the legend, and the unmistakable mustache of Dale Sr. They talk about what the series gets right, what it might be missing, and what Earnhardt meant to the South beyond just racing. Then, it’s time to reach into the ol’ Male Bag, where a listener poses the very serious, very Southern question: “Is Buc-ee's worth the hype?” Chris and Winston have a very spir...2025-05-291h 04Southern GentlemenMajor Podcast Updates!In this episode of The Southern Gentlemen Podcast, your hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze catch up on all the latest life happenings and podcast updates. Chris’ wild and crazy German Shepherd puppies - Huck and Birdie - are finally headed off to doggy boot camp with the same trainer who worked wonders with Winston’s dog June. The fellas also talk about what’s new with the show: we’ve fully bounced back from the Great YouTube Channel Deletion of 2025, the subscriber count is climbing, and we’re getting ready to move into a brand-new studio space. The guys...2025-05-221h 24Southern GentlemenThe Power of a Champion with special guest Ben Utecht In this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with former NFL tight end, Super Bowl Champion, and one of Winston’s closest friends - Ben Utecht. The conversation kicks off with a powerful story about how Coach Tony Dungy’s belief in Ben changed the course of his life and led to him becoming a key part of the Super Bowl-winning Indianapolis Colts. The guys then dive into Ben’s deeply personal journey following his football career - his battle with CTE, memory loss, and the emotional toll of life after t...2025-05-151h 09Southern GentlemenKentucky Bourbon & Southern Hospitality with special guest Dixon DedmanIn this episode of The Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with Dixon Dedman - 12th generation Kentucky native, hospitality pro, and whiskey-maker with Southern roots deeper than an old oak tree. Dixon shares stories from his time running his family’s James Beard Award-winning inn, The Beaumont Inn, and how he brought his great-great-grandfather’s long-lost bourbon brand, Kentucky Owl, back to life. The conversation gets real as Dixon opens up about the emotional journey of selling both Kentucky Owl and The Beaumont Inn, what that taught him, and how those experiences led to hi...2025-05-081h 31Southern GentlemenWe're All Addicts with Special Guest Ian Morgan CronIn this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with bestselling author Ian Morgan Cron for an honest and engaging conversation. The three men talk about Ian’s move from the Northeast to Nashville, and what captured his heart about life in the South — including his deep affection for the way Southerners talk. They dive into Ian’s bestselling book The Road Back To You, exploring how Christians perceive the Enneagram and why it can be such a powerful tool for spiritual growth. Ian also opens up about his latest book, T...2025-05-011h 08Southern GentlemenSouthern Fried Funny: Matt Mitchell on Comedy, Country, and Condiments In this laugh-filled episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze welcome Alabama-based humorist and internet legend Matt Mitchell. Best known for his hilarious Southern-inspired videos, Matt shares the story of his roots in Walker County, Alabama, and how a parody newspaper account jumpstarted his comedy career. The guys dig into Matt’s journey from working with the popular sketch comedy channel It’s A Southern Thing to stepping out on his own and building a loyal following through his signature Southern charm and wit. Along the way, Matt shares his very strong opinions...2025-04-241h 06Southern Gentlemen90s Country, American Idol, and Grindstone Cowboy with Special Guest Craig CampbellIn this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with country music artist Craig Campbell for a heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation. Craig opens up about losing his father at a young age and how that experience shapes the way he shows up as a dad to his girls today. The guys dive into a fun back-and-forth on the great debate: 80’s country vs. 90’s country. They also talk about Craig’s appearance on American Idol with Mattie Pruitt, what that moment meant to him, and how it came to be. But it’s not all music...2025-04-1757 minSouthern GentlemenWaffle House, Stand-Up Comedy, and Redemption with Special Guest Derrick StroupIn this episode of Southern Gentlemen, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with Alabama-born stand-up comedian Derrick Stroup for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation you don’t want to miss. The guys dive into how growing up in the South shaped Derrick’s comedic voice, why Waffle House holds a special place in his heart (plus his exact go-to order), and how he almost stole a girl from country music star Riley Green. Things get real when Derrick opens up about his past DUIs and how those tough experiences became the unlikely launchpad for his career in...2025-04-1052 minSouthern GentlemenCrypto For Rednecks Revealed | Special Guest Brett HenryEver wondered what the heck cryptocurrency is but felt like all the explanations were made for tech geeks and Wall Street bros? Well, we’ve got you covered. In this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with entrepreneur Brett Henry to break down cryptocurrency - Bitcoin, Ethereum, meme coins, and more - in plain English. Brett explains what the blockchain actually is (without making your head hurt), how cryptocurrency can be used in the real world, and what steps to take if you’re curious about getting started. Whether you're skept...2025-04-031h 15Southern GentlemenThese Obituaries Can't Be Real!In this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze dive into the world of real-life obituaries - some heartfelt, some downright bizarre, and others so funny you won’t believe they’re real. From a woman who was declared one of Waffle House's most loyal customers to a Kentucky man remembered for his fondness of "hammering beers," these final farewells prove that a great sense of humor can live on even after we're gone. Get ready for laughter, unexpected wisdom, and maybe even a few ideas for how you want to be remembered (hopefull...2025-03-271h 06Southern GentlemenUnexpected Company with Special Guest Michael FarrenIn this special episode of Southern Gentlemen, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with a guest they’ve never met before - and they know nothing about him! Welcome to Unexpected Company. Their guest? Michael Farren, an award-winning songwriter from Columbia, Tennessee. Michael shares his journey from growing up in Texarkana, Texas, to chasing his dream in Nashville’s songwriting scene. He opens up about the struggles that nearly cost him his marriage and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Plus, he introduces Chris and Winston to his latest adventure - Bourbon Gospel. It’s a...2025-03-201h 10Southern GentlemenDad Joke ShowdownGet ready for an all-out battle of wits (or lack thereof) as Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze go head-to-head in a no-holds-barred Dad Joke showdown! 🏆😂 In this episode of Southern Gentlemen, the fellas take turns delivering the corniest, groan-worthiest, and most side-splitting Dad Jokes they can muster—all while trying to keep a straight face. Will Chris hold his composure? Will Winston finally break? And will any of these jokes actually be funny? (Spoiler: Absolutely.) Join us for a full episode of laughter, bad puns, and timeless Southern charm. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscr...2025-03-131h 01Southern GentlemenWhat We Hate About The SouthIn this episode of Southern Gentlemen, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze get real about the American South - the good, the bad, and the downright ridiculous. From the food, the music, and the legendary hospitality to the brutal humidity and the ever-present "fake people" (you know the type), nothing is off-limits. Chris and Winston break down their favorite southern traditions, the artistry and craftsmanship that make the region special, and the quirks that drive them crazy. Whether you're a proud southerner or just curious about life below the Mason-Dixon, this episode is sure to entertain. ...2025-03-061h 07Southern GentlemenThe Power of Overnight DatesIn this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze dive into the importance of prioritizing overnight dates with their wives. They share how taking time away - just the two of them - helps strengthen their marriages, deepen their connection, and keep the spark alive. Chris and Winston also explore some of their favorite spots for the perfect overnight date in Nashville and Franklin, TN, from cozy boutique hotels and hidden gem restaurants to unforgettable experiences that make for a meaningful getaway. Whether you're looking for inspiration for your next date night o...2025-02-271h 14Southern GentlemenChanging Your Own Oil (After 30 Years!)In this episode of Southern Gentlemen, Chris Thomas shares the story of changing the oil in his wife’s car - something he hadn’t done in over 30 years! He and Winston Cruze dive into the lost art of basic car maintenance, swapping stories and sharing practical tips for handling the essentials. From the must-have tools to the mindset shift that comes with taking on a hands-on task, this conversation is all about self-sufficiency, learning new (old) skills, and embracing the satisfaction of a job well done. They also take a moment to talk about a big setb...2025-02-201h 12Southern GentlemenOur Favorite RitualsIn this episode of Southern Gentlemen, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze share the daily and weekly rituals that bring value and joy to their lives. From the perfect morning coffee routine to weekly chiropractor visits and even the best way to wash a truck, they discuss the small traditions that make a big difference. Plus, they dive into the Male Bag to answer a listener’s question: What are the best trucks to buy without breaking the bank? 🚛💰 🔹 Simple rituals that add meaning to everyday life 🔹 Chris & Winston’s go-to habits for well-being 🔹 Practical truck-buying advice for budget-conscious buy...2025-02-131h 01Southern GentlemenValentine's Day Do's & Don'tsValentine’s Day is around the corner, and Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze are here to help you navigate it like a true Southern Gentleman. In this episode, they share how they approach Valentine’s Day with their wives, from meaningful traditions to thoughtful gift ideas. They also cover some major Valentine’s Day pitfalls - like gifts you should definitely avoid! Whether you’re planning something special or need a last-minute save, this episode has you covered. Hit play and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember (for the right reasons)! And don’t forget to subscribe...2025-02-061h 11Southern GentlemenREVEALED: Everyday Carry For Men!In this episode of Southern Gentlemen, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze dip their toes into the art of Everyday Carry (EDC) for the modern Southern man. From timeless tools to practical accessories, they explore the essentials every gentleman should have on hand to stay prepared and polished. What makes a true Southern gentleman’s EDC unique? How can your everyday items reflect your values and style? Chris and Winston share their personal favorites, discuss how to balance functionality and tradition, and offer tips for curating your own perfect carry setup. Whether you’re a seasoned EDC enthusiast or look...2025-01-301h 12Southern GentlemenWinston's Inauguration AdventureIn this special episode of Southern Gentlemen, Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze dive into Winston's recent whirlwind trip to Washington, D.C., where he and his wife Rachel attended the Inauguration of President Trump and the exclusive Liberty Ball. Winston shares how a last-minute invitation led to a flurry of preparation, including their fashion choices for the historic events. The conversation explores everything from navigating D.C.’s vibrant food scene to the energy of the massive crowds at the Inauguration. Winston also recounts the heightened security measures and what it was like to be in the heart of such a...2025-01-231h 17Southern GentlemenMarriage Advice I Wish I HadWhat would you tell your newlywed self if you could go back in time? Cue Huey Lewis & The News! In this heartfelt episode of Southern Gentlemen, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze reflect on their years of marriage - 23 and 15 years, respectively - and share the wisdom, lessons, and advice they wish they had known as newlyweds. From navigating challenges to cultivating deeper connections, Chris and Winston dive into the joys and struggles of building a lasting marriage. They discuss the importance of communication, the value of patience, and the simple acts of love that make all the difference. Whether y...2025-01-1659 minSouthern GentlemenBuilding Your Band of Brothers w/ Special Guest Stephen Mansfield | SGP009In this episode, Chris and Winston are joined by New York Times bestselling author Stephen Mansfield for a conversation on the importance of male friendships, and why building your band of brothers is so important for the health of a man's soul. To learn more about Stephen Mansfield, visit https://stephenmansfield.tv, or connect with Stephen on Instagram at https://instagram.com/mansfieldwrites. Watch the video version on YouTube! Connect with Chris and Winston online at https://chrisandwinston.com! Instagram | TikTok | Patreon #podcast #southern #countryliving2025-01-091h 01Southern GentlemenChristmas Recaps, Waffle House, and New Year's Resolutions - Southern Gentlemen Podcast Ep. 008In this episode, Chris and Winston comment on the talent of Eminem, recap their Christmases, discuss the value of a midnight run to Waffle House, and talk about how they approach New Year's resolutions. Watch the video version on YouTube! Connect with Chris and Winston online at https://chrisandwinston.com! Instagram | TikTok | Patreon #podcast #southern #countryliving2025-01-021h 24Southern Gentlemen3 Great Cold Weather Cocktails - Southern Gentlemen Ep 007What's your favorite cocktail to sip on during the colder months? In this episode, Chris and Winston recap a quail hunting trip they took together, then Chris tells a very interesting story about his buddy's recent vasectomy. Finally, Chris makes three of his favorite cold-weather cocktails to share with Winston. After trying them all, Winston rates each cocktail on a 1-10 scale. Watch the video version on YouTube! Black Manhattan Recipe: 2oz rye whiskey, 1oz Amaro, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, 2 dashes orange bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a coupe glass over an...2024-12-1959 minSouthern Gentlemen2024 Best Gifts For Men - Southern Gentlemen Ep 006On this special episode, Chris and Winston each share five gift ideas for the Southern Gentlemen in your life. Watch the video version on YouTube! Winston's List: Readywares Firewood Log Carrier - https://readywares.com Suprus Arc Lighter - https://suprus.com Bosch Laser Measure - https://boschtools.com Coffee Gator Scale - https://coffee-gator.weeblyte.com Airmoto Portable Air Pump - https://getairmoto.com Chris' List: Double B Boots - https://doublebboots.com Blake Gore Min...2024-12-121h 04Southern GentlemenTestosterone, Nicotine, and How Our Bodies Speak To Us - Southern Gentlemen Ep 005 w/ Special Guest Dr. Christopher MotleyIn this episode, Chris and Winston visit with Dr. Christopher Motley to talk about men's health issues, how our bodies operate and communicate with us, the effects of low testosterone, the curiosity around nicotine, and more. Dr. Christopher Motley is a Chinese medicine man certified in acupuncture, applied kinesiology, and clinical kinesiology. He also holds a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Logan University, and a diplomate in acupuncture and Chinese Medicine through the DABCA board. He has been in private practice for more than 20 years in Franklin, Tennessee. Watch the video version on YouTube! Le...2024-12-0559 minSouthern GentlemenThe Hardest Job A Man Can Have - Southern Gentlemen Ep 004 w/ Special Guest Kyle CruzeIn this episode, Chris and Winston visit with Kyle Cruze. Kyle is a licensed therapist who works exclusively with teenage young men. He also happens to be Winston‘s brother! The three of them talk about the difficulties of being a dad, the struggles that young men deal with, and the pitfalls of parenting out of fear. There’s even a little bit of Fortnite talk. To learn more about Kyle Cruze, visit https://kylecruze.com. Connect with Chris & Winston online at https://chrisandwinston.com. Southern Gentlemen Podcast on Instagram - @southerngentlemenpodcast2024-11-291h 25Southern GentlemenMay The Smoke Be With You | Special Guest Joe LeavittFire up the grill and get ready for a mouthwatering conversation! In this episode of Southern Gentlemen, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with Joe Leavitt of May The Smoke Be With You to talk all things BBQ. From perfecting smashburgers to mastering brisket, Joe shares his top techniques, favorite tools, and expert tips for grilling like a pro. Whether you're a backyard BBQ enthusiast or a seasoned pitmaster, this episode is packed with wisdom on how to elevate your grilling game. Don't miss out! 🔥 Topics Covered: ✅ Essential grilling tools ✅ Smashburger secrets ✅ Cooking the perfec...2024-11-211h 14Southern GentlemenThe Strongest Connection | Special Guest Jeff HeltonIn this episode of Southern Gentlemen, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze sit down with Jeff Helton - an executive and life coach specializing in organizational and relational health. Jeff has spent years helping individuals, marriages, and teams gain clarity, find direction, and function at their highest capacity. Together, Chris, Winston, and Jeff dive into an important conversation about what it means to connect with our wives on a deeper spiritual level. They explore the role of a man as a spiritual leader in his home, practical ways to cultivate faith within a marriage, and how to...2024-11-141h 05Southern GentlemenHow To Be A Southern GentlemanWhat does it truly mean to be a Southern Gentleman? In this episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosts Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze dive deep into the timeless values that define a well-rounded man in today’s world. From classic manners and putting others before yourself to the importance of resourcefulness, integrity, and grit, Chris and Winston share their personal philosophies on embodying the Southern Gentleman way of life. Whether you were raised in the South or simply appreciate its values, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical advice on how to thrive as a...2024-11-071h 26Southern GentlemenWhy Are We Doing This?Welcome to the very first episode of the Southern Gentlemen Podcast, hosted by Chris Thomas and Winston Cruze! In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on why we started this podcast, what we hope to accomplish, and what we’re looking to gain from this experience. At the heart of it, Southern Gentlemen is about our shared desire to become better men - better husbands, better fathers, better friends. We want to embrace timeless southern values while learning how to be more resourceful, more capable, and ultimately, more fulfilled in every area of life. We...2024-10-311h 18