Shows
The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Epstein ListSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, baseball comes to an end, "Henhalla" construction is underway, Troy lost a golf tournament as expected, and there's more to this Epstein List than meets the eye. Why isn't anyone talking about the business end of this? Troy has some ideas...Support the show2025-07-1443 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Cattle Baron Has DoubtsSend us a textHe did it! Troy finally purchased steers to finish for private sales and has embarked on his journey to become a cattle baron...with 10 steers. Yes, it's not the size of the herd that counts....Oh, and did you notice peace is breaking out all over the world these days? Troy has some doubts about that but what does he know, he thinks the modern state of Israel isn't the same one the Bible means!Support the show2025-06-2343 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonYou Got Sand in Your FeenstraSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, the weather turns cold and rainy, garden plans are on hold, it's commencement and state track season again, and a fella stops by Sunnyside needing a hand which leads to a whole conversation about the early front-runners for Iowa Governor: Rob Sand and Randy Feenstra. Troy has thoughts.Get your tickets to Vinylfest here: https://bomanfineartscenter.org/events/Support the show2025-05-191h 05The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonHey Maaaaaa! I Sheared Sheep!Send us a textThis week, Troy recounts his adventures shearing sheep for the first time while helping out his friend, Don Johnson at Heartland Hill. Those Youtube videos make it look so easy - but it's not! Get the details on a full day of shearing dozens....(ok, just five) sheep and the lessons learned. And, of course, it was Mother's Day this weekend so a special shout out to all the mothers out there who have always been the Sunnyside of our lives!Check out the Sheep Shearing video that may be the...2025-05-1240 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonYear-Round School: The Competitive AdvantageSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy highlights the issues with current legislative actions related to tax policies and their unintended (or perhaps, intended) consequences to public schools. Maybe there's an advantage to year-round school; find out why. And, there's a new concert coming June 14th that you're not going to want to miss. Plus, Troy's dislike of lawn clippings....Happy Cinco de Mayo (whatever that is!)To get more information about recording a Sunnyside Biography simple email your query to troy@sunnysidefarmstudios.com To purchase your tickets to th...2025-05-051h 20The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonStuff! (Generational Wealth)Send us a textThis week at Sunnyside, May is peeking around the corner as we leave April and endeavor to prepare for summer. Recent work on a rental property inspires the Thompson's too part with some stuff, get different stuff, teach some stuff to the kids and think about stuff like the true meaning of generational wealth, the myths surrounding what that means, and how to instill the most important lessons about stuff in the hearts and minds of our kids. It takes a "special set of skills" and we look to the tales of two...2025-04-281h 11The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonA Kansas City EasterSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy recounts the family trip to Kansas City for Easter. Get his take on Top Golf, visiting the Negro Baseball Leagues Museum, staying at the Rafael Hotel, experiencing KC BBQ lamb, and most importantly, sharing Easter Sunday services with his family at The Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, KS and the message of victory presented by Rev. Adam Hamilton.Support the show2025-04-211h 01The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonApril Showers: Chaplains in Schools and Women in CombatSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy takes a look at an Iowa legislative interest in placing chaplains in public schools, the SecDef's recent change in combat arms standards, whether he's buying the up-tick in female heroines in action films, why our kids are better socialites than we were, and why this might be the right week to invest in the stock market thanks to the Trump Tariffs...or not. Support the show2025-04-071h 19The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonI'll Pass on the Tariffs and Sugar, ThanksSend us a textThis week Troy reviews his thoughts on Trump's tariffs (with the help of Thomas Sowell and the WSJ) and shares his thoughts on whether SNAP beneficiaries should keep the sugar. Also, he lets us in on a recently wrapped community project planting 40 trees John Denver-style around the local university football field and includes a review of this weekend's 50's Revival Show. Support the show2025-03-311h 09The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonWhat's With These Eggs?Send us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy dives into the egg situation and the irrelevant ties the egg has to Resurrection Sunday as well as hyperbolic YouTube titles, that wascally wabbitt known as the Easter Bunny and what the meaning of "Awesome" really is.Support the show2025-03-2452 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonSpring Break Observations from OrlandoSend us a textAfter a week of spring break travels to Orlando, the Bahamas, and associated theme parks - the Thompson's return to Sunnyside with some observations. Troy's got some thoughts on Disney, Epcot, Universal, Nassau, Coco Cay, and people....lots of people. Grab a green beer and enjoy Saint Patrick's Day as we roll into another episode of The Sunnyside of Life - tanned and salty!Support the show2025-03-171h 08The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonPlaying Cards with Trump: War or Go Fish?Send us a textIt's the start of a new season: Season 4 of The Sunnyside of Life and Troy gets to introduce a new theme song, talk about his take on the Zelensky-Trump negotiations that has everyone up in arms (literally) and what it all smells like from his side of the farm. Smells like fish...Support the show2025-03-0359 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMusical Roots, A 50's Revival Show, and Randy TravisSend us a textIn this final episode of Season 3, Troy reviews the "The More Life Tour" from Randy Travis, hits the notes on an upcoming 50's Revival Show, and wanders into his own eclectic musical playlists encouraging you to do the same! Next week: Season 4 but for now...enjoy the jig down Thunder Road....Support the show2025-02-2456 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonSNL 50th: Lunch Lady LandSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy promotes the next season starting March 3rd, highlights a new endeavor into YouTube, reminisces about the 50 years of Saturday Night Live and its impact on his teenage years and creative exploits and finds a way to tie it into some misinformation about the National School Lunch Program - more than you want to know about school lunch perhaps but we could all use some "sloppy Joes....sloppy, sloppy Joes, yeah..."Support the show2025-02-1759 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMonday Morning QuarterbackSend us a textThis week, Troy gives his thoughts on Super Bowl LIX, the ads he found creepy, good, and unnecessary as well as a correlation between the way the Eagles smoked the Chiefs and the way the recent election went. That plus some details and thoughts on USAID, a new conspiracy bouncing around X and a theory on why the public sector unions may really be putting up their resistance to the offer to federal employees to resign.Support the show2025-02-1059 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Tale of the Turtlenecked LobbyistSend us a textThis week, Troy gives his report on his lobbying experience at the Statehouse last week which involved personal conversations, a trip to the very top of the golden dome and the subsequent geothermal effects that followed. This, of course, led him down the rabbit hole of thinking about lobbying in general and specifically the lobbying that revolves around government subsidies in the Green Energy movement. Is there a way we can generate some thermal energy credits for ourselves while wearing woolen turtlenecks? Maybe. Oh, and there's a cat tower in this diatribe as...2025-02-0357 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonFoul! Vote No on HF 1: Troy Goes to the Capital...AgainSend us a textThis week, the Sunnyside of Life journeys to Iowa's Capital to advocate for public schools. Troy's take on public education predates his own life, dating back to Boston, 1630, with the original public school and his family's role in it but that's not what this is about. This week, Troy will once again visit the Iowa Statehouse and this time he's bringing stickers that say: "FOUL! HF 1 VOTE NO!" It's fun to be a retired guy, school board president, and podcaster with connections. Call it like you see it and let your legislators know...2025-01-271h 12The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonInauguration Day with MLKSend us a textIt's Inauguration Day in America and it falls on MLK Day. What are the consequences of truly peaceful protests? What will the immediate actions of the new(ish) president and his administration look like and what must Green Bay Packer fans think about moving the ceremonies indoors?All this and a story about the most deadly chemical known to man this week on The Sunnyside of Life with Troy Thompson...Support the show2025-01-201h 04The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonWild Fires, Greenland, the National Sales Tax, and RIP President CarterSend us a textThis week on The Sunnyside of Life Troy gets caught up on what's happening with takes on the wild fires in California, a recommendation to have Will Arnett play Governor Newsom in the movie, his thoughts on the Greenland option, why the national sales tax isn't a great option and the send off of President Jimmy Carter who proved to be a much better private citizen than he was a president. That and an announcement for all you SSL fans dying to sit and watch the show for some reason...Support...2025-01-131h 11The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonIowa AlohaSend us a textThis week - Troy returns from the family holiday in Hawaii and shares his experiences, thoughts, and recommendations for those who plan to visit this great island state - where to stay, where to eat - some of the things to see and do. From the capital city of Honolulu on Oahu with its history at Pearl Harbor and big city vibes (pros and cons) to the beautiful island of Maui with its elbow room and exceptional weather, whales, and ambiance. The family adventures off water falls, surfing, snorkeling, and of course...2025-01-071h 08The Sunny Side of Life with Troy Thompson"Shootin' The Breeze" for ChristmasSend us a textThis week, Troy shares three Christmas stories from the collections of his father-in-law, Dennis Burkholder. Denny had a regionally syndicated column for several years and his story-telling abilities are legendary (at least they are at Sunnyside!) So, why not sit back and relax and enjoy the musings of Denny on this special December story-telling episode of the Sunnyside of Life!To get more information about how you can record the stories of your loved ones via the Sunnyside of Life Biographies, simple email you query to troy@sunnysidefarmstudios.com...2024-12-1636 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Preacher, the President and the Power of PrayerSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside - Thanksgiving is over but the giving of thanks never ends! Troy talks about his prayer routine and tells the story of a country preacher who prayed for President Eisenhower - how that prayer was answered and how Ike ended his famous farewell to the nation speech with a prayer in kind. Discover the power of prayer yourself and make it a part of your life.For 10 percent off on Old Money fashions for men and women just follow the link below and be "the Sunnyside of...2024-12-0258 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonTrumps Daft Picks So Far: New Money, Vets, and FOXSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, it's time to review the current Trump Cabinet and Staff Nominees which include a good number of New York and Florida folks as well as a lot of military veterans, a lot of unconventional picks and a lot of what Troy is saying are "new money" nominees which make them abhorrent to the old money Republicans, deep-state Dems, and the new-money-thinks-they're old money-media. So maybe that explains the inordinate number of FOX News picks... He doesn't think they're all great picks but overall - this draft class could be...2024-11-181h 12The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Oath is Permanent: Veterans Day with Commandant Todd JacobusSend us a textThis week, Troy is joined by Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs Commandant: COL (Ret) Todd Jacobus to discuss the role of the Veterans Administration overall and specifically, the unique role of the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs. Troy and Todd go way back to the recruiting days in the Iowa Army National Guard and they continue their service in different leadership roles for veterans - Todd as Commandant of the IDVA and Troy locally as a VA Commissioner. It's an oath every veteran takes...and it's permanent. Listen in to find out why...2024-11-111h 09The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonFear (Not) HalloweenSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy discusses the origins of Halloween, the top 10 human fears, and the mentions of fear in the Bible. Plus, he lets you in on the current state of emergency in the home county related to a peat fire and its consequences, an update on travels over the weekend, and thoughts on whether spending $10 million for a 2 minute appearance in Houston by Beyonce for the Harris Campaign was a good use of donor funds.Enjoy the show and Happy Halloween - get that bonfire started (just don't start...2024-10-281h 10The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonWhen KAOS Reigns: A ReviewSend us a textThis week, Troy runs through his take on the Netflix series "KAOS" and what would happen if there were to be a sequel. How did the gods on Mt. Olympus really meet their end? Find out.Support the show2024-10-211h 19The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonKamala Harris: The "Middle Class" Brahmin Marxist Next DoorSend us a textThis week, Troy correlates the family history of Brahmin caste, Marxist economics, chattel slavery exploration, and tenured PhD professorships within the Harris Family with the explanation of why she's not what she insists on marketing herself as while campaigning for your vote. Have a seat on an Adirondack and take note of Troy's version of The "Middle Class" Brahmin Marxist Next Door.For info on Sunnyside of Life Biographies or inquiries about having Troy as a speaker or MC for your event, simply use the "Text the Show" button and send...2024-10-141h 01The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonWhat I've Learned from the Old TestamentSend us a textThis week, Troy reflects on his Sunnyside of Life Bible in a Year Experience as the Old Testament readings come to an end Wednesday and he begins the New Testament Thursday. What did he learn from recording those 39 books of the Bible? How can it be summarized? What does it mean and what does it point to? Have a seat and find out this week, on The Sunnyside of Life!To join Troy and the Waldorf Gridiron Club in their important tree restoration project at Bolstorff Field - visit https://waldorfgridironclub.o...2024-10-071h 00The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonHappy Campers with John KirchenerSend us a textThis week, Troy sits down with his neighbor: John Kirchener. John and his wife Denise own 3 Fingers Campground just down the road from Sunnyside and you can listen in to the story of how this couple with young children took the leap into the world of owning a campground after reevaluating things post-pandemic. Hear about the life, labor, and love of keeping campers happy and being a happy camper yourself!Support the show2024-09-301h 09The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonHey, FAT!Send us a textTroy thinks we may a little over weight...want to talk about it?Support the show2024-09-2356 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonStalwart: Lessons in Life from DanielSend us a textThis week, Troy takes a dive into the Book of Daniel (which is being read right now on the concurrent Season 2 of SSL in the Bible in a Year Experience) to give focus on being stalwart in one's faith in times of turmoil, politically or otherwise.He's 1-2 on the weekend in his football following and 0-1 on his politics. Regardless, the life lessons in Daniel help put it all in perspective (with a little humor and insight from the Sunnyside of Life!)Support the show2024-09-161h 06The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonCocoNUT, You're Fired: The Harris-Trump DebateSend us a textThis week the first Presidential debate between VP Harris and former President Trump will happen and it reminds Troy of an old SNL skit. He discusses the rules and format and introduces TWO NEW parody songs which he thinks poeticizes the words of our presidential contenders. Pick the one you like and vote accordingly! Will it be CocoNUT or Lady, You're Fired? You decide - the microphones are muted while you talk it out....Support the show2024-09-091h 08The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonLabor Day: Lessons in Labor, Life and LoveSend us a textHappy Labor Day!Enjoy the day and listen in to Troy as he discusses the value of labor, work, and service in the name of Christ each and every day for us as adults and especially for our kids.Support the show2024-09-0257 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonWinning the Competition for Public SchoolsSend us a textThis week, school is back in session around Sunnyside and Troy shares his insight on what he said at the faculty and staff welcome back as president of the school board, what he sees as the big differences between private and public schools and how the public school systems, particularly the small rural districts can win out over private schools. He's an optimist and this is something his family has been doing since 1635. May God bless all our educators in the field this school year and our children whom we send t...2024-08-191h 10The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonTim Walz: Cut and Run for CongressSend us a textThis week, on The Sunnyside of Life Troy finally has an opportunity to be an "expert" in something. With all the media hubbabaloo over Walz's service, Troy explains exactly why it matters, who Tim Walz is, what the rank situation was and why he KNOWS Walz knew it was time to cut and RUN for Congress. Share this one with your friends because most people don't know the difference and the "embedded" media sucks at explaining it. Troy does. Support the show2024-08-121h 23The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonYou'd Make a Fine President, DaveSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy builds a loft for Jack to move into his college dorm, shares his epic hay advertisement, reviews the 1993 move DAVE - still one of his favorite films - find out why, which leads him to unveil an entirely new podcast to come yet this fall prior to the election and YOU have the opportunity to help pick out the name! See the choices below and text the program with your picks! Also, check out the YouTube link to the Sunnyside Farm Studios channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c...2024-08-051h 04The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonWatching the Olympics from SunnysideSend us a textThis week Troy discusses the 2024 Olympics, the weird opening ceremonies, the different events and a little bit about the history which, he hopes, still imbues a mood of peace through competition. Support the show2024-07-2939 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonWedded Bliss and a Biden MissSend us a textWe're late to post our episode today but that's because our son, Tate, got married this weekend to Miranda and it truly is the sunniest side of life!Listen to Troy's retelling of the weekend, the speech he gave (and the prayer he would've given) as well as the lessons learned at lunches on the way to Kansas City and on the home regarding merit, the workplace, and a whole lot more.Oh yeah, and did your hear President Biden has decided not to run for president? Troy has...2024-07-221h 01The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMAY God Bless the USASend us a textThis week, Troy thought he might poke fun at NASA or even Washington DC, but no, it turns out someone attempted to assassinate Donald Trump on the campaign trail. Listen in to get his take on what went down and what to expect hereafter and why it's not a command from us to order God to bless anything but hope that He MAY...To lend financial support to the families of those killed or wounded in Butler, PA go here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/president-trump-seeks-support-for-butler-pa-victimsSupport the show2024-07-151h 02The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonProverbs for PresidentsSend us a textThis week, inspired by the current Bible in a Year Experience, Troy finds some prescient proverbs for the presidential candidates, all candidates for any office really as well as for the media, and the rest of us in the electorate. Let's see what King Solomon would share with our presidential contenders and more importantly, would they even listen?Support the show2024-07-081h 08The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonDeclare Independence....I Dare Ya!Send us a textHappy Independence Day Week! This week, the Sunnyside of Life celebrates America's Birthday, spends a hot minute or two on the "debate" and compares good leaders and bad leader is world history when folks decide to go it on their own. That and a gun lesson, some funny skit re-runs and a challenge to DO SOMETHING to our listeners - Troy's booming and it's not even the 4th yet!Support the show2024-07-011h 07The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonRain, Rhetoric and ReliefSend us a textThis week, Troy shares the affects of a deluge of rain over the weekend as well as some highlights from events in the small town. Then, he rolls right into some thoughts on the upcoming Presidential Debate and some revelations about some of the shows he's been watching and doesn't anymore and all that seems to fit into a nice reminded of the words of Jesus.... Take a listen, we're glad you stopped by!Support the show2024-06-241h 08The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonIt's All About the MinesSend us a textThis week, Troy returns from an AAU basketball tournament with some unique observations about the way of the world. It's a mining operation and we're the indigenous community giving up our resources. Find out why and also, on a rant, why some parents go too far with the sporting events and men who insist on wearing flip flops are useless.Hope you had a great Father's Day - now, back to the quarry!Support the show2024-06-1757 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Ballad of The Mutton Chop RingSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside - Troy's in a chipper mood. He finished baling! Did you ever think a guy would talk so much about hay? Well, there's more going on at Sunnyside than ruminant chow - there's a new mosquito assassin on the farm, the Bible in a Year Experience is nearing the half-way mark, there's a raised garden plan in the works like you've never seen, and we reveal the sad end of Edie the cat - BUT WAIT, there's more as Troy opens up the sealed book of recruiter stories with "...2024-06-101h 13The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonIs Turn-about Fair Play?Send us a textWell, it turns out Trump was found guilty of all his crimes. So now, the Democrats may have just turned their number one enemy into an unstoppable folk hero, a victim of an unjust system, and in the process the whole thing could lead to a pretty wicked case of turn-about is fair play. But will it be? This week, take a seat on the porch at Sunnyside with Troy as he draws a comparison between the actions of Hamas and previous enemies of Israel and the result with the actions o...2024-06-0357 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonGo Jack!Send us a textThis week at Sunnyside, our son Jack runs at the State Track Meet and graduates from High School. Listen in as Troy and Heidi spend some time talking to Jack about school, the future, family, and faith. For more information about how to record your loved ones in a Sunnyside Biography, send us a message using the show link. Include your contact info or simple email your inquiry to troy@sunnysidefarmstudios.comTo get your pet the best quality food on the market and benefit from following The Sunnyside o...2024-05-1955 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonA Busy and Blessed Week at SunnysideSend us a textThis week, Troy shares the busy happenings at Sunnyside as the family prepared for Jack's High School Commencement reception, makes a new friend in another neighbor which involves flax of all things, enjoys the benefits of sweeping the district track meet and earning spots at the state track meet, reflects on how fast things seem to be going as the kids age, thanks all the moms for Mother's Day, and misplaces a cat. There's much accomplished at Sunnyside and much more on the list! Should we create a YouTube channel? Let us know...2024-05-1349 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonUnited Methodist MadnessSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy preps for a graduation reception and decides to plant his flag in opposition to the May 1st United Methodist decision to allow gay marriages and ministers. Let's Chronicle this one.If you want more information about Sunnyside of Life Biographies or, considering the subject matter of this episode, share your opinion, email us at troy@sunnysidefarmstudios.com What's up, Wesley?Support the show2024-05-061h 11The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonHow Many Miles to Babylon?Send us a textThis week on The Sunnyside of Life, Troy takes an episode to discuss the Bible in a Year Experience and make some connections about people, leadership, and government of ancient Israel and modern day America...or any nation, for that matter.How many miles is it to Babylon anyway? Listen in and you may just find the answer!Support the show2024-04-221h 17The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThat Cy Young - He's Terrific!Send us a textThis week, Troy visits with long-time stage actor, dancer, singer, writer and all-around performer: Cy Young! (Not the baseball player!) Cy started working in the 1950s and hasn't stopped. He's written plays, musicals, songs (including one for Barbara Streisand), novels, short stories for young adults and the rest of us. He's 92 (but only 23 if you count birthdays!)You don't want to miss out on Cy's incredible on-going story from insights on Buster Keaton to Carol Burnett and many, many more. Check out Cy's work here https://cyyoungbooks.com2024-04-151h 28The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonJoel McNulty: Restless on 4th StreetSend us a textThis week, Troy checks in with his buddy, Joel McNulty who has generated several new songs on his way to another album but it hasn't been easy. Since the two college chums last visited, Joel has endured more health issues, some emotional trips, and one very necessary course direction that has paved the way to this long-awaited album. Find out what Joel's been up to, how he has gotten through it all and listen to the products of his journey with three new releases revealed in full here on The Sunnyside of Life!2024-04-081h 23The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonResurrection Round Table 2024!Send us a textIt's Holy Week and this episode we return to the format of the Resurrection Round Table discussing the presence of Christ in the Old Testament leading to the perfect completion of the Law, the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, and the hope for humanity via the Resurrection. Joining Troy are local pastors, Denny Hudson of the First Congregational Church and Bob Snitzer of Pilot Knob Lutheran Church. Enjoy the episode....He is Risen!Support the show2024-03-251h 45The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonSarasota, St. Patrick, and SunnysideSend us a textThis week, Troy reviews his trip to Sarasota, shares his solution to the world problems, highlights the upcoming episodes of some of his other productions and shares the story of Saint Patrick. Take a seat in the rocker at Sunnyside and stay awhile. We're glad you stopped by.Support the show2024-03-181h 00The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonRick Wiley: NYPD to FCIC...as in, Ice CreamSend us a textThis week, Rick Wiley stops by Sunnyside to share his journey from the NYPD to Florida and love and marriage selling coffee and ice cream in Iowa.Listen in as Rick explains how a suicide jumper saved his life from the events in NYC on 9/11 and how spilling coffee on his pants changed his perspective about life in a small town.Not for nothin' but there's a lot more than ice cream packed into this week's episode!Send your inquiries for a Sunnyside Biography consultation to troy...2024-03-111h 39The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMark Clouse: Golfing for LifeSend us a textThis week, Troy welcomes Mark Clouse to Sunnyside to share his tales of life as a golf pro, university golf coach, Professor of Spanish, and member of the PGA Rules Committee.Hear about good and bad golfers, golfing with Donald Trump and catching a lift on his jet, golfing with David Ortiz, Jack Nicklaus, and a little golf/baseball diversion called: "Bolf"!For queries about recording your Sunnyside of Life Biography, email Troy for more information at troy@sunnysidefarmstudios.com Support the show2024-03-041h 39The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonInvesting and Inflation: An INTERESTing Conversation with Kirk ChisholmSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, we welcome IAG financial expert, Kirk Chisholm from Lexington, MA to the show. Are you planning for retirement? Have you built in the cost of inflation? Have you considered alternatives - how about a unique, self-directed IRA? Are our kids preparing for their financial future and do we have the best financial education we can achieve in place for our kids and ourselves? Check out what Troy and Kirk discuss, this week on The Sunnyside of Life!For more information or to get in touch with Kirk...2024-02-261h 23The Sunny Side of Life with Troy Thompson1 Year Anniversary! On to State!Send us a textIt's the 1st Anniversary episode of The Sunnyside of Life and the start of a brand new season!Get all the details on Troy's trip to the capital, arming teachers, improving mental health in schools, and the return of the parodies! Also, thoughts on women's sports - ON TO STATE BASKETBALL, being useful, sharing your time for good causes and sharing your stories with us!We take a look at Tucker Carlson's interview with Putin and re-visit some old favorites regarding the legislative process.Plus, you can "...2024-02-191h 35The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonNikole Thompson: "But GOD!"Send us a textIn this final episode of the first season of The Sunnyside of Life, the message of being the "Sunnyside of someone else's life through Christ" comes full circle with special guest, Nikole Thompson. Nikole is the author of 50 Shades of Truth and with her husband, Anthony, conduct a special ministry via https://prisoner2preacher.org reaching out to the men and women of our culture in search of the Gospel using their own very unique testimony of redemption from lives of addiction, prison, infidelity, homosexuality, and more. You won't want to miss this ve...2024-02-121h 50The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonHenry Stone: The 2024 Legislative SessionSend us a textThis week, House Majority Whip, District 9 Iowa House Representative Henry Stone stops by the studio to discuss the Governor's AEA bill, teacher pay, local control of funds, some new ideas that are still being worked out (and Troy lends him a few of his own, of course), and picks for the 2024 presidential election as well as the Super Bowl.Support the show2024-02-051h 38The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonHooked in the TongueSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Knox gets his tongue hooked on an ice fishing hook! Troy nearly gets knocked out by a flying sheet of OSB. The Emcee is available to rent. The SSSL Bible in a Year concludes the book of Exodus. Kevin James has a new clean comedy special out on Amazon - and we LIKE IT! And Dr. Jordan B. Peterson faces losing his license as a clinical psychologist in Canada. He must have bitten a sort of fish hook too! We investigate and provide you with a way to share...2024-01-291h 22The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe 2024 Shell GameSend us a textThis week on The Sunnyside of Life - what may happen on the world stage in 2024? Troy thinks it will be full of conflict due to a weak US administration and an election year that will keep plenty of us distracted. Pay attention to the signs and we may avoid a mess. Find out where it'll come from and a little history about that 38th parallel this week on the Sunnyside of Life!Support the show2024-01-221h 01The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonCaucus Night!Send us a textWell, despite the blizzard and frigid temps - Iowans get that once-every-four-years opportunity to shine on caucus night.Who will be the nominee to emerge from the fray? Well, Trump. Duh.But, who will be next and next after that?Troy gives his insight and visits some of the commentary on his Bible in a Year social media posts.Support the show2024-01-151h 14The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonFishing with LombardiSend us a textThis week Troy returns to The Sunnyside of Life with a story of the family vacation in the Florida Keys, a new game the kids invented, revisiting the honeymoon stomping grounds and meeting one of the most unexpectedly interesting characters on a charter fishing trip that may....or may not have been the man responsible for bringing the Gambino Crime Family to justice in 2008.......or maybe it was Lombardi himself.News clip credits to:CBS NewsJourneyman PicturesNYCurbanism.comThe Gainesville Sunand...2024-01-081h 10The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonHappy New Year 2024: The Moscow Mules Take-Over!Send us a textHappy New Year from The Sunnyside of Life! We hope 2024 will be a great year for you and yours and are thankful for the time we've shared together thus far.This week, Troy takes a break and finds a hidden episode recorded by his son Tanner and Tanner's friend, Carter who have decided to name themselves "The Moscow Mules" or maybe it's The HammerED Show. To be determined.What happens when you have fun in you dad's podcast studio after an afternoon of watching late season football? Listen in...y...2024-01-011h 18The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Best Christmas Pageant Ever...It's A Wrap!Send us a textWe did it! The Best Christmas Pageant EVER was actually THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER! Setting records across the board in the regional theatre's 50 year history.Look, we know we missed a week, but we have a good excuse! Find out what it is - this week, when Troy sits down with Heidi and they talk about the show that's been such a big part of their life these last couple years.It's almost Christmas!Support the show2023-12-181h 22The Sunny Side of Life with Troy Thompson"Let the children come to me."Send us a textIt's been a busy week at Sunnyside as things wind up toward the production of the Best Christmas Pageant Ever and Troy has some insights on the "Meta" experience of directing a show with 58 kids, the sometimes misguided tone of some adults, and the joy of bringing a truly WONDERFUL story to the stage.Support the show2023-12-041h 16The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Essential Church, Chinese Restaurant Conspiracy, and the SSL Bible-in-a-YearSend us a textThis week at Sunnyside, Troy reviews the 2023 documentary: The Essential Church, he digs into the potential conspiracy behind all those Chinese restaurants we all love, and he unveils a new project for 2024 - The Sunnyside of Life Bible-In-A-Year. Support the show2023-11-271h 04The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonHappy Thanksgiving!Send us a textGive thanks this week with the Sunnyside of Life. Troy reviews all the things he's thankful for since the last Thanksgiving, shares family traditions (some are weird), and looks into the ways in which we can be grateful to God for everything - even the hard things that come our way.Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours from the Sunnyside of Life!Support the show2023-11-201h 21The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonPet Peeves and Pet LikesSend us a textThis week, Troy runs down a list of Top 10 Pet Peeves (and a bonus) as well as a list of Top 10 "Pet Likes" - see you if you agree!Plus, tickets are on sale for "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!" here: https://brickstreettheatre.orgSupport the show2023-11-131h 22The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonConsequencesSend us a textThis week on The Sunnyside of Life, Troy discusses the downfall of seeking a life without consequences, how that is playing out in the Middle East, and what that means for each of us.Then, he covers some movies and themes from the mid-80s...what were we thinking and who was behind those storylines?Tickets for The Best Christmas Pageant Ever go on sale November 8th and can be found here: https://brickstreettheatre.orgSupport the show2023-11-061h 26The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMaryLou Kleveland: Local Veterans AffairsSend us a textThis week, Troy visits with the local Veterans Service Officer, MaryLou Kleveland of the Winnebago County Veterans Affairs to discuss the role of a Veteran's Service Officer at the local level, the importance of communicating with veterans at the local level to assist with benefits and entitlements, the opportunities to serve those who have served us, and the myriad steps involved with getting benefits applications for pensions, health benefits and survivor benefits through the state and federal systems.For more information, visit your local county Veterans Affairs VSO in your county...2023-10-301h 42The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonIsrael, Hamas, and the ChoiceSend us a textThis week, Troy takes a stab at the problem in the Holy Land. What's the solution? Well, there is one but don't expect much to change.We have a unique gift of choice, but what (or better yet, WHO) will we choose?Support the show2023-10-231h 08The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonDr. Bob Alsop: Waldorf, The Premier AND UniversitySend us a textThis week, Dr. Bob Alsop stops by Sunnyside to celebrate the 120th Anniversary of Waldorf University, Troy's Alma Mater. Find out what it takes to keep a small liberal arts college going for 120 years - it's not easy - but there have been blessings at every fork in the road. It's a great conversation about higher education, the future of liberal arts, classrooms, student life, expectations, college costs, and more - all from the the Sunnyside of Life!For more information about any of Waldorf University's residential or on-line p...2023-10-161h 32The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonIt's About Redemption, LadySend us a textThis week, Troy is joined by Nate Forsberg and Donovan Johnson - the three directors of the BrickStreet Theatre's December 2023 one of a kind production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever! Listen in to the processes these three have created to produce the most unique and inspirational performance of a childhood classic about the story of the nativity, redemption, and the folks that make it happen.Mark your calendars: tickets go on sale November 8th here: https://brickstreettheatre.orgSupport the show2023-10-091h 06The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonI Cast Everyone!Send us a textThis week, Troy ruminates over the incredible turn-out for casting auditions of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, the Christmas show he's directing for BrickStreet Community Theatre. He updates us on the goings-on at Sunnyside including his encounter with a nailing gun which left a pretty good impression on him - especially his arm! And, it turns out Troy has been notified he's receiving the local volunteer of the year award...what?This and more, on The Sunnyside of Life!Support the show2023-10-0255 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMackinac Island, Directing Community Theatre, and Playing Your IronsSend us a textOn this episode of the Sunnyside of Life, Troy shares his take on recent travels to Mackinac Island, the ups and downs of dressing up, directing the Best Christmas Pageant Ever, and the analogy of playing your irons.Also an update on the happenings on the homestead, running into regulations, the beauty of porches and the virtue of hiding the garage.Thanks for stopping by and Cheers to being the Sunnyside of someone else's life...Support the show2023-09-251h 22The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonProfessor Sumatra Ray: Being Good, Doing Good, and Feeling GoodSend us a textThis week we welcome to Sunnyside, Professor Sumatra Ray, MD/Registered Nutritionist; Director of Research in Food Security, Health and Society, University of Cambridge.Troy met Dr. Ray (and his amazing daughter - Nikki) in the hotel lobby while visiting Washington, DC and we're glad he did. Let's dive into worldwide nutrition issues and solutions. What if we were to scientifically re-imagine the local recipes of the world to achieve the best taste and nutritional value? Learn about the double burden of malnutrition, micronutrient deficiency also known as "hidden hunger", what...2023-09-111h 25The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonFarming, Football, Fentanyl, and the FutureSend us a textThis week, Troy shares who's coming up in the next couple weeks. He covers the debates and provides some solutions to this fentanyl problem we keep hearing about.But, it's football that he really loves and when it comes to the future - well, let's just say the farm studios will be a little busier starting in January...Support the show2023-08-281h 33The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonTodd Lewis: Hot Shot (Not Fire Jumper)Send us a textThis week Troy sits down in studio with friend and neighbor from just down the road, Todd Lewis. Todd dropped his graduation cap and gown from high school in the backseat of his parent's car following commencement in 1995 and hit the road in his pickup. That winding road took him from fly fishing guide, to SnoCat operator, to Hot Shot HeliTack Firefighter and eventually, full circle, to the family farm just up the road.You won't want to miss the adventurous and poignant conversation about life, adventure, faith, family, the farm...2023-08-211h 56The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonCharity, Shame, Guilt, An Endorsement and KnoxSend us a textThis week on The Sunnyside of Life, Troy talks about the new dog - Knox, the value of Charity, Shame, Guilt, and small communities. We've also found the guy who should get the Republican nomination, in case anyone is paying attention - that North Dakota Governor, Doug Burgum. Crazy, right?Oh, and there's a special visit to the Joseph R. Biden Presidential Library of the future, an update on how the Walk 4 Water event went and a few opportunities to support the teams on the Homefront.Support t...2023-08-141h 25The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonNo AC in DC!Send us a textThis week on the Sunnyside of Life, Troy returns from Washington DC and covers the highlight of the week long family trip to our nation's capital including stops at Gettysburg and Mount Vernon. He actually read the Wallstreet Journal and learned a few things about the status of Chief Diversity Officers. He has a solution to draining the swamp and some input on the loving nature of our small towns.Don't forget to join us Sunday the 13th at Pilot Knob State Park for the Walk 4 Water ev...2023-08-081h 22The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonScott Bertelsen: That Laugh!Send us a textThis week, Scott Bertelsen stops by the studio. It's not the first time he's been here though. Turns out, he's been working for a couple months on creating his own podcast with Sunnyside Farm Studios and the reveal is just around the corner! Listen in to what 40 (well, really 39) years of teaching, directing, and inspiring young people - including Troy - is all about. Get a preview of his upcoming podcast: Mr. B's Dinner Party, and enjoy a series of wonderful sketches about folks desperate for our attention in the "Sunnyside D...2023-07-311h 33The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonBales, Buddies, Biden, and Brooke!Send us a textHoly cow! What a week it was! We cut, raked and baled our own oat hay here at Sunnyside - find out how that went: the good, bad, sentimental, and indifferent. New this week: Wicked Limericks....hmm.Thank God for great weather and helpful family and friends!Speaking of friends, it was Troy's 30th high school class reunion and Sunnyside played host for one of two parts of time together with classmates. Then, Troy takes note of the corrupt beginning of our current President. Was...2023-07-241h 48The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonSunnyside Social Club #1Send us a textThis week, Troy catches us up on the progress at Sunnyside, his little brother visits Vietnam, and we discover the origin story of Sunnyside and what was supposed to by Sunnyside Social Club #1. He also discusses the Oceangate Titan V sad outcome, RFK Jr., Hunter Biden, Trump and a little suggestion about India. Also, a film review and recommendation for The Lost King.Support the show2023-06-261h 22The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonOfficiating: "Everybody Else Can Look At My Fingers"Send us a textThis week, Troy sits down in-studio with guests Karl Wooldridge, Jason Slater, and Brandon Weber - three local sports officials with a combined total of over 50 years of experience making the calls. Our kids don't play the games without someone to make the calls and be the "calming influence when the bat guano is raining down from the sky." These are the professional truth-tellers of competitive sports who give up vacation days to meet the needs of sports programs all over the country and do so, often, with little appreciation and even the oc...2023-06-191h 41The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonFather's Day: HI-JACKED!Send us a textThis week on the Sunnyside of Life, the studio gets hi-jacked by four boys intent on telling stories about their father: Troy. Who knew they had it in them? Learn all about the host from the perspective of the boys who know him best. Tough love or just a 3-day rule on injuries? Poop too long? Favorite bed time stories from Shel Silverstein, what it sounds like when your dad announces your name of Friday nights and those baseball games and so much more. Check out Where the Sidewalk Ends by Sh...2023-06-121h 06The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonJoel McNulty: The Singing BusboySend us a textThis week we welcome dear college friend and maestro, Joel McNulty, to Sunnyside. Troy and Joel go way back to college. He's full of surprises, encouragement, and humor and he did the interview from the ER! What? Find out why this Kansas City saloon singer stays at the top of Troy's charts and why he'll be at the top of your heart once you hear his words and work....just like Tom Watson.Check Joel out at https://www.broadjam.com/joelmcnultySupport the show2023-06-051h 28The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMemorial Day 2023: Holding Each OtherSend us a textThis special Memorial Day episode was produced using the stories of local veterans from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam who have since passed. Memorial Day is for active remembrance of those who gave all for this nation. Hear Troy navigate the produced stories of voices from our past on this week's episode. Men such as: Don Aamodt, Marvin Juhl, Larry Kearney, and Bob VerHoef as well as the family influence of Troy's grand-uncles: James Emerson and Robert Hagerman.This episode wouldn't have been possible without the efforts of Ri...2023-05-291h 31The Sunny Side of Life with Troy Thompson$842 Billion: The 2024 Military Budget - There's a Better WaySend us a textA 70 percent increase in military spending in the last 10 years. Sure, we have ding-dongs who've caused a recession and an inflationary debacle but we also are doing it wrong. The money we provide the government will never be enough so you can be sure their solution will be to print more money. Why not? They own the printers. Here's a couple original ideas rooted in history and victory that may just cause a common sense revolution. Or not.You be the judge. Enjoy.Also, check out what a...2023-05-151h 26The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMy Hardest Kid is My Mother-in-Law's Son: Mother's Day 2023Send us a textThis week we celebrate Mothers! Troy is joined in conversation by Heidi and dear friend, Kari Wooldridge, mothers each in different circumstances and we discuss the ups and downs of being a mom, how our families work together and what our mother's have taught us. Plus, some of the best Mother's Day gifts and a whole lot of funny stories to which everyone can relate. We hope you take the time to "call your mother" and share the love as we did, this week, on The Sunnyside of Life!Plus: Real...2023-05-081h 30The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonEarth Day, Prom, RFK, and Budweiser: Bye Week 2Send us a textThis week at Sunnyside, our 10th episode, we think about Earth Day - provide a bit of background, talk about prom, the errors Troy has made so far, and what to think about RFK, Jr. It's where we catch up on our month so far - and look forward to a bright future.Check out the Sunnyside of Life!https://pabstblueribbon.com/Support the show2023-04-241h 21The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonMark Meckler: "A Suggestion Convention"Send us a textThis week, Troy visits with Mark Meckler, President of Convention of States Action -it's simple - there's NO WAY the federal government will relinquish any of its power, live within a budget, or limit themselves to reasonable terms. The Founders anticipated this, and thus, Article V of the US Constitution details how amendments may be made whether by Congress, OR by the people via a Convention of States.There is a lot of misinformation about the COS and what it can really do - on it's face, it's really a "suggestion...2023-04-101h 11The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Resurrection Round Table 2023Send us a textThis week on The Sunnyside of Life, Troy is joined by the head pastors of three area churches in a discussion about Holy Week and the Resurrection.Join Troy and Pastors Les Green, Rod Hopp, and Eric Weaver as they cover the meaning of this week, the Resurrection, some of the mysteries surrounding the amazing events and their meaning, most important of which is: HE IS RISEN!We hope you have an excellent Resurrection Sunday and are anxious to celebrate with your church family and your kin....2023-04-031h 34The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonDr. Kevin Mason: Notes on Bringing History HomeSend us a textThis week, join Troy and Dr. Kevin Mason, Professor of History, Waldorf University as the two discuss how to make history important to the masses and how to get involved in our communities and make a difference.Kevin has created a successful following with his Notes on Iowa website which has continued to teach and inspire people across the country. Learn what it takes to bring history home - wherever home may be.Also, this week: The Sunnyside Farms Fat Slapping App, a visit to the Green Dragon Tavern...2023-03-271h 31The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonBye Week 1: "Get Your C-Pass"Send us a textThis week, the fifth episode brings about a new feature - the BYE WEEK. Every 5th Episode will take a break from the interviews of our most interesting guests and their pursuits and instead discuss the happenings at Sunnyside.Recently, the Thompson Family took a Cruise to the Caribbean. Troy has some opinions about that - Airports, the TSA, the US Virgin Islands, cruise ship passengers, American work ethic, the island of St. Maarten and what getting on that big ol' cruise ship is related to....We also take...2023-03-211h 28The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonDonovan Johnson: From Carnegie Hall to Heartland HillSend us a textIn this inaugural episode of The Sunnyside of Life with Troy Thompson, musician and homesteader Donovan Johnson breaks in the studio at Sunnyside.It's a biographical look at the life of a musician who has pioneered back to the farmstead of his youth and has determined to play a new melody that feels like life, in small town Iowa.Don't be surprised when our conversation gets interrupted by drop-in family, friends, and a number of original audio skits.We hope you enjoy it - slapp av! And...2023-02-201h 34The Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Sunnyside of Life: Slapp Av!Send us a textThe Sunnyside of Life with Troy Thompson will deliver its first full episode Monday, February 20th, 2023. There will be a great guest, topical conversation, some farmstead updates, drop-ins, skits, and stories in each episode every week.Subscribe now so you are sure to catch them all and share with your friends!In the meantime, enjoy this preview of what's to come...Support the show2023-02-0602 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Sunnyside of Life: We're gonna cut some woodSend us a textThe Sunnyside of Life with Troy Thompson will deliver its first full episode Monday, February 20th, 2023. There will be a great guest, topical conversation, some farmstead updates, drop-ins, skits, and stories in each episode every week.Subscribe now so you are sure to catch them all and share with your friends!In the meantime, enjoy this preview of what's to come...Support the show2023-02-0201 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Sunnyside of Life: Pioneer Back!Send us a textThe Sunnyside of Life with Troy Thompson will deliver its first full episode Monday, February 20th, 2023. There will be a great guest, topical conversation, some farmstead updates, drop-ins, skits, and stories in each episode every week.Subscribe now so you are sure to catch them all and share with your friends!In the meantime, enjoy this preview of what's to come...Support the show2023-01-3003 minThe Sunny Side of Life with Troy ThompsonThe Sunnyside of Life: The Room's CleanSend us a textThe Sunnyside of Life with Troy Thompson will deliver its first full episode Monday, February 20th, 2023. There will be a great guest, topical conversation, some farmstead updates, drop-ins, skits, and stories in each episode every week.In the meantime, enjoy this trailer of what's to come. Subscribe now so you are sure to catch them all and share with your friends!Support the show2023-01-2503 min