Shows
Kentucky Hidden WondersInside the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® with Mandy RyanWe sit down with Mandy Ryan, Director of Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Experiences, to unpack how a six-stop trail from 1999 has grown into a powerhouse composed of 58 destinations that’s reshaping Kentucky tourism, extending stays, and driving local communities' economies. From the Amber Triangle of Louisville, Lexington, and Bardstown to small-town gems like Shelby County, the trail’s variety now spans ultra-modern sustainability showcases and family-run farm-to-glass distilleries.We dig into what modern visitors actually want: hands-on cocktail classes, chef-led dinners, meet-the-maker sessions, and tasting rooms where stories are as rich as the pours. Mandy shares why the audie...
2026-01-0820 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersInside Little Mount Lavender: From Field To StorefrontMost people think lavender is just a pretty scent. We open the door to a much bigger story: a Kentucky team who planted 5,000 starts, signed a lease before they had products, and built a year-round destination inside a historic stone building where food, wellness, and craft come together.We talk through the origins of Little Mount Lavender, the lessons learned from California farms, and how a bold idea became a brand with a clear point of view. You’ll hear how French culinary training shapes a cafe menu where lavender elevates citrus, balances sauces, and never overpowers. We...
2025-12-1122 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersFrom Family Grocer To Legendary Grill At B&N Food MarketA granddad with a butcher’s hand, a grocery from 1970, and a burger that made a town famous—this is the flavor map behind B&N Food Market in Bagdad, Kentucky. We sit down with Buckshot and Ashley Warren to trace how a family store turned into a destination where the Newt Burger, 20‑hour brisket, and blue‑ribbon desserts pull travelers off I‑64 and locals back for seconds. The story runs on work ethic and love: fresh‑ground beef like Newt did it and sides that taste like home.Buckshot learned the craft shoulder to shoulder with his grandfat...
2025-12-0443 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersHow A Shelby County Ministry is Reshaping Veterans' LivesSome gaps are obvious once you’ve lived through them. Brady Wright, a combat Veteran turned ministry leader, describes the moment he realized why so many vets were cycling from hospital detox back to the street; there was no immediate bridge into stable, supportive housing. Together with event coordinator and fellow veteran Marla Kaiser, we walk through a three-step model that changes outcomes—clinical treatment with Fire Mission Ministries, six months of service-intensive transitional housing at the Veterans Village in Shelby County, and a guided transition into permanent homes.You’ll hear how a small band of Vietna...
2025-11-2034 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersGetting Lost On Purpose: The Art, Science, And Soul of SurroundingA flat map can’t explain why a roadside rock wall feels like a time machine. That’s where Ronald R. (Reggie) Van Stockum Jr. comes in. He’s a lawyer who practices environmental law, a biologist with a PhD, an author who writes like a traveler-poet, and a musician with a knack for rhythm on the page. Together we follow his Surrounding® philosophy — skip the pre-research, chase the blank spaces on the map, write while the feeling is fresh — and discover how Kentucky reveals itself when you’re willing to get lost on purpose.We start with the grou...
2025-11-0643 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersInside The Backwards Backpack: How Sensory Tools Help Autistic Kids In CrisisA roadside crash. A child on the spectrum overwhelmed by noise and confusion. One pair of headphones, a set of picture cards, and a dinosaur-weighted plush turn panic into calm. That pivot—from chaos to connection—is the heart of our conversation with Aaron and Ashlea Garofola, the co-founders of The Backwards Backpack, a grassroots nonprofit outfitting first responders, schools, and families with sensory bags that work in real time.We dig into how the idea was born from a devastating ER moment and grew into a county-wide network where every EMS vehicle and fire truck carries tool...
2025-10-3023 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersHow A Family Farm Became A Must-Visit Destination In KentuckyWant the kind of day that smells like sweet corn, tastes like warm apple cider donuts, and ends with muddy boots and full hearts? We sit down with Gabriella Gallrein of Gallrein Farms to explore how a third-generation family operation became one of Kentucky’s most beloved agritourism destinations without losing its roots.The story starts decades ago, with a move from Louisville to Shelbyville, when dairy days gave way to greenhouses, u-pick strawberries, and a market famous for peaches-and-cream sweet corn. Gabriella walks us through the seasonal rhythm: spring blooms and starter plants, summer’s overflowing prod...
2025-10-2317 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersHoofprints on the Heart: A Couple's Path Through Kentucky Horse CountryJudge Dan Ison and Debbie Holloway Ison share their journey through Kentucky's horse country, from thoroughbred racing dreams to quarter horse breeding and equine therapy programs. Their 36-year marriage has united their complementary passions for horses while building careers in public service, professional speaking, and community development.Judge Dan Ison has served as Shelby County Judge Executive for 10 years after 30 years in corporate AmericaDebbie has been a professional coach and speaker for 25 years, now focusing on training speakers and women's eventsDebbie rescued her first horse at age 12 when she convinced a farm owner not to put down a...
2025-09-1123 minKentucky Hidden WondersHow a Small School in Shelby County is Shaping Kentucky's Future LeadersWe explore Cornerstone Christian Academy with Advancement Director Annette Hill, discovering how this 42-year-old institution is shaping the future leaders of Shelby County through faith-based education and community involvement.Cornerstone Christian Academy is a non-denominational pre-K through 12th grade school with approximately 330 studentsThe school offers a unique Greek language program instead of traditional foreign languages, benefiting students pursuing ministry, missions, archaeology, and medical fieldsNew flexible scheduling allows secondary students more choices, including specialized courses in pre-law and forensics90% of graduates remain in Shelby County, contributing to the local community as leadersThe Fall Festival on September 12th (6-9pm...
2025-09-1120 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersJuicy Secrets of Shelby CountyMulberry Orchard celebrates its 15th season as a Shelby County treasure with 8,000 fruit trees and a commitment to authentic farm experiences. Fifth-generation farmer Amanda Gajdzik shares how her family transformed traditional farming operations into a thriving agritourism destination that educates visitors about where their food comes from.Mulberry Orchard started in 2010 with 2,500 trees and has grown to 8,000 trees, primarily peaches and applesThe farm features produce from over 20 Kentucky Proud farms selling meats, honey, jellies, and local productsTheir commercial kitchen offers a full lunch menu featuring farm-fresh ingredients Educational elements include playground equipment made from repurposed farm m...
2025-07-0323 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersBeyond the Greens: Exploring Shelby County ParksDerrick Griffitts brings a fresh perspective to Shelby County Parks and Recreation, transforming Kentucky's hidden outdoor treasures into accessible adventures for everyone. As a 25-year PGA golf professional who now directs the entire 960-acre park system, Griffiths shares his unique vision for connecting community members with nature's wonders.The conversation reveals surprising gems scattered throughout Shelby County's three major parks and four mini parks. From the professional-level disc golf course at Red Orchard Park to Lake Shelby's expanding RV camping facilities, these spaces offer more than just recreation—they provide genuine adventures. Griffiths describes personal discoveries made wh...
2025-06-1932 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersTracing Roots: A Journey Through Shelby County's Genealogical TreasuresSarahbeth Farabee, head genealogist at the Shelby County Public Library and vice president of the Shelby County Historical Society, shares her passion for genealogy and the extensive resources available at the library's Kentucky Room.Started researching family history in her 20s by contacting distant relatives through lettersFound surprising connections including relation to Francis Scott Key and an ancestor executed after the Battle of Kings MountainHad a spiritual experience visiting her ancestor's pre-Civil War home in OhioOffers free genealogy assistance to Shelby County residents regardless of where their ancestors livedThe Kentucky Room houses family files, historical maps, newspaper archives...
2025-06-0543 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersSee Kentucky On HorsebackJustine Saudan and Lyndsey Estes from Red Fern Riding Center share how they're bringing authentic horseback experiences to visitors and locals alike at Shelby Trails Park in Simpsonville, Kentucky. Their riding center offers guided trail rides, English riding lessons, boarding services and equestrian events while focusing on safety, accessibility and exceptional horse care.Located on 465 acres of county parkland in Simpsonville with trails for both horses and hikersOffers two types of guided trail rides — a one-hour Nature Ride and a 90-minute Adventure RideProvides comprehensive safety measures including pre-assigned horses matched to riders, safety videos, helmets, and mounting platformsWelcomes ri...
2025-05-2230 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersUnearthing Shelby County's Past: Tunnels, Time Capsules, and Hidden StoriesDeputy Judge Jon Park takes us on a journey through Shelby County's hidden gems and historical treasures, revealing surprising discoveries and community stories along the way. He shares his path from Illinois to Kentucky and explains how his background in ministry and public service prepared him for his current role.Born near Abraham Lincoln's home in Springfield, Illinois, with a deep appreciation for history and civic engagementServed as Executive Director of Constituent Services under Governor Matt Bevin, helping citizens navigate government resourcesSpearheaded the Gold Star Family Memorial at Veterans Park, honoring families who lost loved ones in military...
2025-05-0125 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersFrom Ground to Glass: Jeptha Creed DistilleryJoyce Nethery from Jeptha Creed Distillery shares her journey from chemical engineer to master distiller at her family's woman-owned, woman-run Kentucky bourbon operation. The distillery's signature Bloody Butcher corn creates distinctive flavor profiles in their spirits while honoring local heritage through sustainable farming practices. 🥃Joyce leveraged her chemical engineering background, teaching experience, and business skills to create an authentic ground-to-glass distilleryThe name Jeptha Creed honors the local Jeptha Knobs named by Daniel and Squire Boone in the 1700sTheir signature Bloody Butcher Corn dates to 1845 and imparts unique, earthy, nutty characteristics to their bourbonBeyond bourbon, they produce vodka and moo...
2025-04-1729 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersCelebrating Shelby County's Rich History with Helen McKinneyHelen McKinney, Executive Director of the Shelby County Historical Society, reveals the rich historical significance of Shelby County and the many programs preserving its heritage. As a descendant of Samuel Boone (brother to Daniel and Squire), Helen brings a personal connection to the county's frontier past while leading efforts to celebrate America's upcoming 250th anniversary.Historical Society programs include the popular History Matters Speaker Series with 50-75 attendees per sessionAward-winning summer history camp engages 65-70 children annually with a waiting list for participationScience Hill Female Academy celebrates its bicentennial in 2025, founded by Julia Tevis as one of the...
2025-04-0337 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersDogwoods Bloom and Spotlights Shine in Shelby County, KYThe episode delves into the vibrant community spirit of Shelby County, highlighted through the annual Dogwood Festival and the Shelby County Community Theater. Listeners gain insights into the festival's rich history, upcoming events, and the importance of local arts, education, and community engagement.The Dogwood Festival roots back to the 1970sEmphasis on community and education intertwining in the festival More than 120 artisan booths set for this year’s festival Expansion of entertainment options, including professional musicians The significance of the Shelby County Community Theater as a local cultural hub Plans for future growth and volunteer opportunities in the theate...
2025-03-2030 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersTwo Centuries in Shelby County, Kentucky: Science Hill & Wakefield-Scearce GalleriesDiscover the fascinating history behind Wakefield-Scearce Galleries and its integral role in Shelby County's heritage. Explore how a family-run business evolved from a grocery store into a celebrated destination for antiques and craftsmanship while unearthing stories that connect us to a rich past.Meet Matt Burnett and learn about his journey at Wakefield-Scearce Explore the origins of the gallery, from silver rationing to julep cups Understand the craftsmanship behind handmade julep cups Hear about the gallery’s connections to U.S. presidents Discover the impressive silver vault and its historical significance Learn about the Science Hill Female Academy's rich hi...
2025-03-0637 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersCelebrating Art and Culture on Shelbyville's Historic Main StreetShelbyville, Kentucky, boasts a vibrant community spirit through Shelby Main Street, led by Darlene Snow. This episode explores the program's focus on design, promotion of local businesses, current beautification projects, and upcoming events while emphasizing the importance of community collaboration. Introduction to Darlene Snow and her journey Overview of Shelby Main Street and its role in the community The four focus areas of the Main Street program Ongoing beautification projects and local artist involvement Exciting events scheduled for 2025 New businesses opening in downtown Shelbyville The Leadership Shelby program and its impact Community involvement and collaborative efforts Information on how to co...
2025-02-2023 min
Kentucky Hidden WondersHealing Through Horses: The Transformative Power of Equine Therapy at HorseSensingDiscover the magic of equine therapy with Dr. Sally Broder, the visionary behind HorseSensing in Shelby County, Kentucky. With a heartfelt journey that took her from the sunny shores of California to the rolling hills of Kentucky, Dr. Broder has established a sanctuary for veterans and individuals grappling with addiction. Her passion for American Saddlebred Horses is just the beginning. Through the lens of Chris Carl's inspiring transformation, we witness the life-altering power of horse-human connections that HorseSensing fosters. These stories highlight not just recovery and growth but a deep-seated resilience drawn from a unique therapeutic approach....
2025-02-0624 min
The Well Aligned Life Podcast // LIFE LESSONS & BUSINESS BREAKTHROUGHS for FEMALE ENTREPRENEURSS3//E8: How to Build a Successful Career in the Tourism Industry with Insights from Janette MarsonHello, friends!Another great guest today on the pod!Janette Marson shares her wealth of knowledge in the tourism industry and discusses how she made the transition from a career in media to tourism!Janette is President and CEO of ShelbyKY Tourism. She has a vast career in marketing, advertising, and public relations. For almost nine years, she was the Executive Director of the Lake Cumberland Tourist Commission in Russell County, KY. She has experience as a creative writer and producer at the ABC, NBC, and CBS affiliate television stations in Indianapolis, and co...
2024-07-2533 min
Small Business Success TalkSmall Business And Tourism Making Communities StrongerOn this episode Christy Smallwood and her guest, Janette Marson discuss how small business impacts and is impacted by tourism.*********************************************************************This episode of Small Business Success Talk brought to you by:Chrysaetos. Making a better human experience by building better leaders. We are the Leadership Professionals. https://chrysaetos.biz/Eagle Eye Strategic Marketing. Meaningful marketing that creates meaningful results. https://eagleeyestrategicmarketing.biz/Interested in booking Christy for your next event? Visit https://christysmallwood.com/, or email sidekick@eagleeyestrategies.biz for...
2022-12-1342 min
Horses, Hats and Bourbon with Claudia CoffeyHouseboating Through Lake CumberlandLake Cumberland is one of the most scenic and largest lake systems in Kentucky. It's known for it's incredible catfish, houseboating and endless summers on the lake. It was also featured on Bravo's Top Chef - pretty cool right? Interview with Janette Marson, executive director of Lake Cumberland Tourism. Summer may be coming to an end but you still have time to enjoy an extended season on the lake. For more information visit https://lakecumberlandvacation.com/
2021-08-1922 min