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The Holler sits down with David A. Graham — staff writer at The Atlantic and author of The Project: How Project 2025 Is Reshaping America.David breaks down why dictators love elections, why 2026 may actually be the most important election of our lifetime, and how North Carolina has quietly become the canary in the coal mine. From ICE raids to gerrymandering, media intimidation, and “competitive authoritarianism,” he lays out the full playbook of how far-right extremists could set the stage for voter suppression and election denial long before a single vote is cast.David unpacks:• The possibility of federal agents seizing voting machines• Military or law enforcement being used to intimidate voters• NC's new election laws and Board of Elections takeover• How doubt — not fraud — has become the most powerful weapon• How media pressure, show trials, and selective prosecutions silence opposition• What NC's ICE operation revealed about 2026• Why young people's rapid mobilization may be the most hopeful sign• What everyday people can do right now — and why it matters
Struggling for Unique Gift Ideas?
The URN crew meet up to tell stories and give thanks.
Have an experience that you'd like to share?Holler at me: thebumppodcast@gmail.comFeel led to donate to The BUMP Podcast?Check out www.buymeacoffee.com/thebumppodcastWant to be better prepared for whatever life throws at you?Check out www.squatchsurvivalgear.comUse Promo Code: 25bump to save 15% SITE WIDEPick up a copy of my book!https://a.co/d/0S3HttW"Oh, My Soul" Written and Performed by Ray Messer Jr.
Midweek Check-in!
Ready for Thanksgiving?
The Holler sits down with Sydney Batch — NC Senate Democratic Leader, family law attorney, social worker, breast cancer survivor, and one of the fiercest voices in Raleigh. From the 146 days and counting without a state budget to the looming multi-billion-dollar fiscal cliff, she breaks down exactly why North Carolina is stuck — and how GOP infighting, reckless tax cuts, and legislative dysfunction brought us here. She explains what's truly at stake for working families, public schools, foster care, teachers, and state employees who are being forced to survive 2025 on 2023 dollars.For less than the price of a Diet Mountain Dew, you can help us build a better North Carolina. Become a Patron today @ https://www.patreon.com/TheHometownHoller
As Thanksgiving approaches, we're doing more than just planning the feast!
MackCashy and Chocolate Adonis discuss should you holler at your Co workers at a workplace?
Yeah so what the photoshop job on the thumbnail is butt, we from before there was AI, this is nostalgia.Holler at us -IG: https://www.instagram.com/gengpodcasts/Twitter: https://twitter.com/GenGpodcastMerch: https://generation-g.creator-spring.com/
Researcher and documentarian Brian Seech joins us to talk about his 40 years of studying and gathering evidence.
As Thanksgiving approaches, we're taking a look back at the history and true meaning of the holiday.
Ramblin’ Reputation – Branden Martin 1800 Miles – Colter Wall Dog Bite Town – Terry Glen Adams Snow in the Holler – Troubadour Blue Lost John (feat. The SteelDrivers) – Tony Trischka Heaven Is Your Hometown – Wilson Banjo Co. I’ll Happen When It’s Time – Joni Harms All I Need Is You – Chandler Walters Need To Get Some Highway In – Newfound Road The Writing on the Wall – Andy Martin Nothing On You (feat. Julianna Rankin) – Ward Davis
Johanna, hostess of Breadcrumbs podcast, joins me this week to dive into her and her family's experiences at a place called Shiner Lake, in Canada. Jo talks about how they saw a physical manifestation of a spiritual battle over the lake. Later, she recounts their encounter with what we believe may have been a Wendigo! Don't miss this episode!Catch her show here!https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/breadcrumbs/id1697706302?i=1000730323256Have an experience that you'd like to share?Holler at me: thebumppodcast@gmail.comFeel led to donate to The BUMP Podcast?Check out www.buymeacoffee.com/thebumppodcastWant to be better prepared for whatever life throws at you?Check out www.squatchsurvivalgear.comUse Promo Code: 25bump to save 15% SITE WIDEPick up a copy of my book!https://a.co/d/0S3HttW"Oh, My Soul" Written and Performed by Ray Messer Jr.Verse of the Week:Psalm 34:7
Midweek Check-in!
Want your marriage wisdom to actually stick?
Comedian and activist Cliff Cash joins the Holler for a wide-open conversation about God, family, Trump, Southern politics, and the craft of stand-up comedy. Cliff talks about growing up in a Christian conservative home, his political awakening, building his life in North Carolina, disinformation, and why he believes everyday people—not politicians—will save our democracy. He also shares stories from the road, the evolution of his comedy, and how he went from Recycling Royalty to Comedy King.For less than the price of a Diet Mountain Dew, you can support the Holler on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/TheHometownHoller
Part 2: Earning the Right to Speak.
Documentary film maker joins us to discuss Bigfoot evidence.
Part 2: Earning the Right to Speak.
Dave joins me this week to share an amazing testimony of overcoming all that life could throw at a young man. From the start, he has faced challenges, demons, and temptations, but God's hand has guided and protected him through it all, and he's here to give Him glory!Have an experience that you'd like to share?Holler at me: thebumppodcast@gmail.comFeel led to donate to The BUMP Podcast?Check out www.buymeacoffee.com/thebumppodcastWant to be better prepared for whatever life throws at you?Check out www.squatchsurvivalgear.comUse Promo Code: 25bump to save 15% SITE WIDEPick up a copy of my book!https://a.co/d/0S3HttW"Oh, My Soul" Written and Performed by Ray Messer Jr.
Midweek Check-in! Generation Z is hungry for authentic connection. Nathan shares a powerful challenge in today's check-in: Get serious about mentoring—not just your own kids, but their friends too. This is where real influence and legacy are built. Watch for practical ways to start mentoring today!
Have you wondered what your kids really think about marriage?
The Holler sits down with Dr. Connie Book, President of Elon University, for a conversation about what's really happening on our college campuses — and why it matters to all of us. Dr. Book talks about leading a university in a time when free speech, protest, and belonging are under the microscope. We dig into what it means to disagree without dehumanizing, how to keep classrooms open to every viewpoint, and what the next generation is teaching us about courage and curiosity. She also shares stories from her time at The Citadel — including going through bootcamp at Fort Knox — and what those experiences taught her about leadership, chaos, and keeping your head when the world gets loud. The Hometown Holler is made possible by the generous support of our monthly sustainers. If you find our work valuable, we invite you to consider becoming a sustainer on Patreon. Join our community and help us keep hollerin' --- https://www.patreon.com/TheHometownHoller
What Does the Next Generation Believe About Marriage?
MK Davis joins us live to discuss hidden truths.
Although they cater to different senses, photography and music share much in common. In both these arts, timing, rhythm, and mood are key. It's been a while since we've mixed photography and music on the show, so we're particularly excited about today's chat with two photographers who share a passion for documenting musicians and their fans—in particular, devotes of punk and indie rock. From early memories of being truly moved by music to practical tips about photo access, image rights and restrictions, plus the complexities of organizing your work for a book, the conversation doesn't miss a beat. So, turn up the volume as Bootsy Holler reminisces about dropping into the Seattle music scene in the early 1990's to capture the raw energy of her favorite bands, now compiled in the book Making It: An Intimate Documentary about the Seattle Indie, Rock and Punk Scene. And Chris Ortiz describes how the house parties he captured at a punk commune in Kansas served as the foundation for his skills as a music photographer with a keen eye for differentiating himself in the photo pit. As Chris points out when it comes to preparing for a show. "It goes back to knowing that music and knowing the band, and being able to sit back and say, Yes, I am a fan of the band, but I also am professional, so this is what I'm going to look for when the band comes out." Guests: Bootsy Holler & Chris Ortiz Episode Timeline: 3:20: Bootsy Holler recalls her early days dropping into the Seattle music scene, photographing garage bands and dive bars. 9:41: Chris Ortiz talks about his start in photography, and his time photographing house parties at a punk rock commune in Lawrence, Kansas. 12:01: The difference between documenting live music and making portraits of musicians, where you need to develop a rapport with your subjects. 17:32: A tip of the hat to Chris as a longtime podcast superfan, plus what he's learned from listening to our 10-year archive of shows. 20:20: Bootsy's early stylistic influences and its effect on her art and music photography. 25:54: The earliest memory of being truly moved by music and the songs Bootsy and Chris were listening to when they truly got it. 31:56: Applying the inner feels of music to photographing a concert and connecting with the rhythm to grab key moments. 39:00: Negotiating access, shooting from the photo pit vs the side of the stage, plus differentiating your pictures from other photographers' work. 48:00: Episode Break 48:56: Chris talks more about current dynamics for gaining access when shooting music and concerts. 53:44: Current limits on concert photo usage and restrictions on contracts offered by some artists and entertainment companies. 58:28: Legal parameters related to pictures in Bootsy's book, plus the difference between concert pictures and portrait situations. 1:02:26: Bootsy's nine-year process of assembling a book, working with a designer for big picture decisions, plus leaving room to break the rules. 1:08:09: Finding publishers, choosing between options, plus the importance of owning the rights to your images. 1:10:20: Bootsy and Chris name the band at the top of their bucket lists to photograph. Guest Bios: Bootsy Holler has spent 30 years capturing the essential personality and emotions of her subjects. Best known for her work as a portraitist, Bootsy's journey began with intimate depictions of herself and friends at the center of Seattle's pivotal music scene during the early 1990s. These formative years at both ends of the lens cemented her style as well as the methodology behind her empathic and journalistic approach. Bootsy's work has been recognized by the Society of Photographic Journalism and twice selected for the Critical Mass Top 50. Her photos have been exhibited and published internationally and are included in the permanent collection of the Grammy Museum. In 2019 she published the monograph, TREASURES: objects I've known all my life. Most recently, her book Making It: An Intimate Documentary about the Seattle Indie, Rock and Punk Scene, was released by Damiani books. Stay Connected: Website: https://bootsyholler.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bootsyholler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shop.BootsyHoller/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BootsyHoller Chris Ortiz has enjoyed a relationship with photography since age six, when he learned the basics from his stepfather. He's specialized in music and documentary subjects since 1998, shooting with both digital and medium format black and white film. After earning a bachelor's degree in art history, Chris obtained an MFA in photography from the Savannah College of Art and Design. Select documentary projects include Portraits of Latinx Identity, and We Are All We Have Tonight, featuring portraits and personal narratives from punk rock enthusiasts, describing each subject's connection to the scene. Additionally, Chris works as news editor for the Prescott Daily Courier, covering area news and events. Stay Connected: Website: https://www.chris-ortiz.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fastboyent/ Credits: Host: Derek Fahsbender Senior Creative Producer: Jill Waterman Senior Technical Producer: Mike Weinstein Executive Producer: Richard Stevens
Nina joins me this week to discuss her miraculous account of surviving death from a rare disease and cold exposure, and more! Such a faith boosting conversation!Scripture of the Week:2 Corinthians 12:9Have an experience that you'd like to share?Holler at me: thebumppodcast@gmail.comFeel led to donate to The BUMP Podcast?Check out www.buymeacoffee.com/thebumppodcastWant to be better prepared for whatever life throws at you?Check out www.squatchsurvivalgear.comUse Promo Code: 25bump to save 15% SITE WIDEPick up a copy of my book!https://a.co/d/0S3HttW"Oh, My Soul" Written and Performed by Ray Messer Jr.
Midweek Check-in! As we approach Veterans Day, Nathan wanted to take a moment to share a huge, heartfelt "Thank You" to all the brave men and women who have (and continue to) served our country. Your sacrifice, commitment, and defense of freedom mean everything. We honor you this Veteran's Day and always! Watch his full message of gratitude!
It takes wisdom to know when to speak and grace to know how.
This week, the Holler sits down with Reed Galen—veteran GOP strategist turned democracy defender, co-founder of The Lincoln Project, founder of The Union, and host of The Home Front podcast.Reed opens up about his decades inside Republican politics—from running campaigns for John McCain, George W. Bush, and Arnold Schwarzenegger, to walking away from the party when Trumpism took hold. He talks war stories from the campaign trail, what really happened inside the McCain–Palin operation, and why he believes both parties helped create today's political crisis.We dig into the collapse of trust in democracy, why working-class voters are abandoning the left, and how Democrats keep losing the messaging war. Reed doesn't hold back on the failures of the establishment, the rise of MAGA, and what it'll take to rebuild a politics rooted in belief, honesty, and results—not purity tests or platitudes.Connect with Reed at https://substack.com/@reedgalenThe Hometown Holler is made possible by the generous support of our monthly sustainers. If you find our work valuable, we invite you to consider becoming a sustainer on Patreon. Tap here to join our community and help us keep hollerin'!
The responsibility of community extends to offering critical support. In the first part of our new series, we tackle a challenging question: Should we intervene when we observe a partnership in distress? We discuss the ethical boundaries, the responsibility of a supportive network, and how to approach delicate situations with grace and wisdom. Listen to the new episode now! Marriage By Design is a channel dedicated to digging into God's design for marriage and family - as well as talking practically live that out in our marriages and families. Our goal is to leave you encouraged that you CAN do marriage and family by God's design and to give you HOPE that God IS FOR YOUR MARRIAGE AND YOUR FAMILY!!! Want to respond? Holler at us at any of the social spots below! Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / YouTube Want to support us financially? Click below!
A special preview of the exclusive content to be found within the Holler. www.oldgodsofappalachia.com/theholler When the porch lights begin to wink out, it's time for all little ghouls and goblins to head on home, but two children decide to knock on just one more door.CW: Bugs. So. Many. Bugs. We can't stress this enough: BUGS. Children splitting time between divorced parents, unsanitary living conditions, children in danger, monster sounds.Written by Cam Collins Narrated by Steve ShellSound design by Steve ShellProduced and edited by Cam Collins and Steve ShellThe voice of Alicia Jesse: Manda LeonardThe voice of Hannah Jesse: Antonia TrasattiThe voice of Taylor Jesse: Cam Collins Intro/outro music: "50 Second Instrumental” by Landon BloodSpecial equipment consideration provided by Lauten Audio.LEARN MORE ABOUT OLD GODS OF APPALACHIA: www.oldgodsofappalachia.comCOMPLETE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA RITUAL:FacebookInstagramBlueskySUPPORT THE SHOW:Join us over at THE HOLLER to enjoy ad-free episodes, access exclusive storylines and more.Buy t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, and other Old Gods merch.CLASSIC MERCH: merch.oldgodsofappalachia.comTOUR MERCH & SPECIALTY ITEMS: oldgodsmerch.com.Transcripts available on our website at www.oldgodsofappalachia.com/episodes.© 2025 DeepNerd Media. All rights reserved. No part of this audio production or its written transcript may be used or reproduced in any manner for the purpose of training artificial intelligence technologies or systems.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/old-gods-of-appalachia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mother and sister video a dog like creature and provide photo evidence.
Presented by Pearl River Resort. Visit PearlRiverResort.com today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Hard Question: Speak Up or Stay Silent?
Ryan joins me this week to talk about the UAP encounter that he had in his youth, and how he has been led into his purpose for the Lord throughout life. There's lots left to get into, and we have already scheduled more conversations in the near future, so don't miss part 1 here!Have an experience that you'd like to share?Holler at me: thebumppodcast@gmail.comFeel led to donate to The BUMP Podcast?Check out www.buymeacoffee.com/thebumppodcastWant to be better prepared for whatever life throws at you?Check out www.squatchsurvivalgear.comUse Promo Code: 25bump to save 15% SITE WIDEPick up a copy of my book!https://a.co/d/0S3HttW"Oh, My Soul" Written and Performed by Ray Messer Jr.
Oh boy are you in for a treat this week. I think the title really says it all. Join our community nonetakenpod.com
Midweek Check-in!
Ever feel like you're in a waiting season?
A ghost cat, a lost hand, and a haunted mill — welcome to The Hometown Holler Halloween Special! Every Tar Heel town has a story. Liz Z. Pardue just happens to know all the ones that'll keep you up at night. Liz joins The Holler to share the folklore behind our state's haunted past, why storytelling still matters in the digital age, and what local history can teach us about ourselves. From ghost cats to Blackbeard, this episode's got plenty of tricks and treats!Connect with Liz on social media @liz.z.pardueThe Holler's growing fast—and we're just getting started! Click here to join our community of monthly sustainers. With your support, we can keep building a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time.
The Power of the 41st Day!
3 man weave for our dear best friends listening.Holler at us -IG: https://www.instagram.com/gengpodcasts/Twitter: https://twitter.com/GenGpodcastMerch: https://generation-g.creator-spring.com/02:52 Current Events and Social Commentary05:47 Mental Health and Societal Pressures08:43 Crime and Public Safety11:47 Art Theft and Cultural Commentary14:47 Historical Accuracy in Media17:47 Student Loan Forgiveness and Economic Discussion20:49 Class Action Lawsuits and Social Media23:46 Entertainment and Movie Reviews36:18 The Discrepancy in Movie Adaptations38:26 The Decline of Original Movie Concepts40:28 The Impact of Streaming on Movie Choices43:28 The Return of NBA and Sports Culture46:29 World Series Anticipation and Baseball Insights49:28 UFC Highlights and Upcoming Fights01:07:08 Inconvenient Truth
Andrea Billups Joins us to talk about her class A bigfoot encounter.
The Power of the 41st Day!
This week, I'm joined by Hugh, a man who actually lives in my area and who spent years battling oppressive spirits as a rehab pastor! His experiences will help solidify any thoughts you have between addiction and the demonic.Have an experience that you'd like to share?Holler at me: thebumppodcast@gmail.comFeel led to donate to The BUMP Podcast?Check out www.buymeacoffee.com/thebumppodcastWant to be better prepared for whatever life throws at you?Check out www.squatchsurvivalgear.comUse Promo Code: 25bump to save 15% SITE WIDEPick up a copy of my book!https://a.co/d/0S3HttW"Oh, My Soul" Written and Performed by Ray Messer Jr.
We thank them for their service — but do we understand their lives?Maria Donnelly and Katy Stevick join The Hometown Holler for a conversation about service, sacrifice, and the unseen struggles of America's military families.As co-founders of the Military Family Foundation, Maria and Katy open up about life as Army spouses — from constant moves and financial strain to the resilience and community that hold it all together. They share how their personal experiences turned into a mission to reform how our nation supports the families who serve, revealing why so many military spouses face unemployment, food insecurity, and systemic barriers that could be fixed with simple policy changes.They also reflect on friendship, finding home wherever you land, and why community might just be the most powerful form of national defense we have.Connect with Katy and Maria at https://www.militaryfamilyfoundation.com/Help keep North Carolina hollerin' — become a Friend of the Holler on Patreon today.
Today, we talk about what it takes to organize a real Farm to Table Dinner, as well as cover our usual Monday segments. Featured Event Chainsaw Milling Demo and PotluckSunday at 1 PMBasecamp Lodge, Lancaster, TN Join us for a hands-on chainsaw milling demonstration and community potluck! Bring a dish to share and see how we turn logs into lumber right here at the Holler. Event Details Sponsors AgoristTaxAdvice.com/LFTN – Helping entrepreneurs, homesteaders, and freedom-minded folks handle taxes the smart way. HollerRoast.com – Fresh-roasted coffee for doers. Start your day with luxury and get to work. Farm To Table Dinner Tickets, Nov 15 | $125 Community Highlight LFTN Stocking Exchange Time is running out to sign up! We'll assign your Secret Stocking Santa on November 1, so don't miss out on this fun community tradition. Sign Up Here Tales from the Prepper Pantry Convenience meals this week: crockpot lamb ribs. Drying the last round of fall herbs — mint, oregano, and holy basil. Getting ready to fill the freezers with meat now that it's almost cold enough to butcher. Hoping for a venison this year. Ground meat base for winter meals: beef, pork, and more pork. Weekly Shopping Report No shopping trip this week. Frugality Tip Did you know that if you put something in your online cart at Amazon (and some other online stores), when the price changes they notify you via email. So if you are looking to buy something but it is a little out of your budget, throw it in the cart and you just might be notified when it goes on sale. Also, when looking around on eBay, go ahead and click that heart, a lot of sellers will send you a discounted offer just for liking an item. So have a little patience and wait and see if you can save a few dollars on your next online purchase. Happy savings y'all ~Margo Operation Independence We opened up the Basecamp Airbnb — and one hour later it rented for four days! That single booking covered baseline expenses for the property (though not the mortgage). Still, a solid win toward independence. Main Topic: Organizing a Real Farm to Table Dinner Why We're Doing One We wanted to show what real farm-to-table actually means — not marketing, not a photo op. A community meal built from what local farmers are actually harvesting right now, cooked by people who understand those ingredients. Why It's Harder Than a Typical Event This isn't catered convenience food. The chef has to process everything from raw ingredients, not pre-trimmed or par-cooked product. Every ingredient is sourced directly from farms, not distributors. Timing is critical — you plan the menu around what's in season, not what's available year-round from a big box store. This is NOT your typical farm-to-table experience. We're not highlighting one or two local dishes and then filling the rest from Costco. Every ingredient — except the pepper and the coffee (which I roast) — comes from right here in Tennessee. No shortcuts. What Other Farm to Table Events Get Wrong Most are “farm to table” in name only — a token nod to local producers while relying heavily on imported or processed foods. They miss the deeper connection between local abundance, timing, and community. Steps to Organizing One Source the food: Build relationships with local growers and producers. Find a venue: Needs to be accessible, scenic, and functional for cooking and serving. Create a semi-flexible menu: Base it on what farmers actually have that week. Explore legalities: Health codes, insurance, and any required permits. Add extras: Things like a wild edible walk turn the dinner into an experience. Sell the tickets: Clear messaging — you're selling an authentic experience, not a restaurant meal. Handle logistics the day of: Setup, cooking flow, seating, lighting, cleanup. Customer Experience How do you keep the night flowing smoothly and still make it feel personal? How do you balance talking about the farms with letting guests simply enjoy the meal? Scaling the Concept Could this become a recurring or seasonal event? What lessons are you already learning for next time? Make It A Great Week.
FINALLY!!! This has been a long time coming, but here we are... this week, I sit down with Ryan, host of Appalachian Intelligence.He sounds the same, he looks the same, (handsome as ever), but there's something different... you can't miss this reunion/crossover episode!Have an experience that you'd like to share?Holler at me: thebumppodcast@gmail.comFeel led to donate to The BUMP Podcast?Check out www.buymeacoffee.com/thebumppodcastWant to be better prepared for whatever life throws at you?Check out www.squatchsurvivalgear.comUse Promo Code: 25bump to save 15% SITE WIDEPick up a copy of my book!https://a.co/d/0S3HttW"Oh, My Soul" Written and Performed by Ray Messer Jr.
I recorded this conversation back in June and FINALLY had the opportunity to do the edits so that I could respect her wishes for anonymity, so sorry for the delay... but I think the timing is perfect.Demons, aliens, trauma, a lifelong battle that she has endured and overcome stronger than ever, all by the grace of God! You don't want to miss this episode.Have an experience that you'd like to share?Holler at me: thebumppodcast@gmail.comFeel led to donate to The BUMP Podcast?Check out www.buymeacoffee.com/thebumppodcastWant to be better prepared for whatever life throws at you?Check out www.squatchsurvivalgear.comUse Promo Code: 25bump to save 15% SITE WIDEPick up a copy of my book!https://a.co/d/0S3HttW"Oh, My Soul" Written and Performed by Ray Messer Jr.