Try That in a Small Town Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Beyond the Scoreboard with Kirk Herbstreit - The Real Value in Athletics and Life :: Ep 64 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

Kirk Herbstreet takes us from the broadcast booth into the heart of what makes sports truly meaningful in this candid, compelling conversation. The voice of college football doesn't just break down X's and O's – he reveals the human stories behind the games we love.
With remarkable vulnerability, Herbstreet shares how going through "hell" as a struggling quarterback at Ohio State transformed him into the broadcaster, father, and man he is today. "I went through the depths," he reflects, describing how perseverance through adversity shaped everything that followed. His perspective offers a refreshing counterpoint to today's transfer portal culture where players often leave at the first sign of difficulty.
The conversation takes an unexpected turn as Herbstreet addresses what he calls an "epidemic in youth sports." Drawing from his experience raising four sons, he delivers a passionate wake-up call to parents and coaches: "You're eight years old playing 55 games and the coach carries around rings because he's won three years in a row... they're eight!" His honest admission about catching himself being too competitive as a coach—seeing fear in his own sons' eyes—resonates with any parent who's struggled to maintain perspective from the sidelines.
Between discussions about the changing landscape of college football, working alongside Nick Saban, and debating the greatest quarterbacks of all time, Herbstreet consistently returns to what matters most: relationships, growth, and the lessons that transcend the scoreboard. His powerful advice for the ride home after games—"Hey, want to go to Sonic?" instead of "What happened on that ground ball?"—reminds us that how we handle wins and losses shapes our children far more than the outcomes themselves.
Whether you're a die-hard football fan or simply navigating the complex world of youth sports as a parent, this conversation offers wisdom that extends far beyond the playing field. Join us for an hour that might just change how you view the games we play and watch.

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From Hunger Games to Country Music: Alexander Ludwig's Creative Journey Jul 07, 2025

Show notes

Ever wondered what happens when Hollywood meets Nashville? Actor Alexander Ludwig joins us for a fascinating conversation about navigating two of entertainment's most challenging industries with genuine passion and remarkable humility.
The star of blockbuster franchises like Hunger Games and Bad Boys, whose films have collectively grossed over $2 billion worldwide, opens up about his unexpected journey into country music. What began as a chance encounter with songwriter Tully Kennedy on a flight has blossomed into a serious musical career with BBR Records. Ludwig shares how authenticity remains his north star in both worlds: "If you're trying to chase trends, you're going to lose. But if you're original and true to you, those are the ones that stick out."
Ludwig takes us behind the scenes of his acting journey, from landing his first major role at 13 to the pivotal moment when being rejected for the Hunger Games lead role became "the gift of gifts" that shaped his entire career. His insights on persistence reveal a refreshing perspective on success: "The people who win in anything are the ones who just stick around long enough for a shot."
As a father of young children balancing demanding creative careers, Ludwig offers wisdom about maintaining relationships while pursuing dreams: "If you say no to the dream, you will be miserable and won't be the person that person fell in love with." This philosophy extends to his approach in every aspect of life, from the 90% diet/10% exercise rule he follows for film roles to his musical choices where authenticity trumps commercial calculation.
Whether you're a fan of his on-screen performances, curious about his country music, or simply looking for inspiration in pursuing your own creative path, Ludwig's genuine passion and down-to-earth perspective offer valuable lessons about staying true to yourself while navigating the entertainment industry's complex landscape.

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The Women of Country Music, A Titans Father's Day and GOAT QBs Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

The stark reality of women's declining presence on country radio sparks a passionate debate among Nashville veterans in this candid conversation about the state of modern country music. When confronted with the statistic that female artists now make up only 8.39% of country radio play—down from 29% in 2000—the hosts don't hold back their theories on why this dramatic shift has occurred.
Amid criticisms that today's female artists "all sound the same," the group highlights an emerging artist named Mary Kutter who's breaking the mold with her authentic Kentucky backwoods sound and polarizing approach. Her willingness to tackle controversial subjects has drawn comparisons to how Alanis Morissette disrupted 90s music, offering a refreshing counterpoint to an industry that often rewards safe, formulaic music from female performers.
The discussion takes an unexpected turn when the hosts identify a major opportunity in country music—the duo category. With Florida Georgia Line's breakup leaving a vacuum and Brooks & Dunn still commanding attention decades into their career, they make a compelling case for why aspiring male artists might find greater success by pairing up rather than competing as solo acts in an oversaturated market.
Perhaps most revealing is the conversation about changing power dynamics in Nashville, where even songwriters with double-digit number one hits describe having to jump through new hoops just to get in a writing room with today's artists. This shifting landscape points to deeper concerns about respect for craft and experience in an industry increasingly driven by streaming numbers and social media presence rather than artistic legacy.
Between moments of nostalgia for 90s country's distinctive female vocalists and candid observations about political divisions splitting up successful acts, this episode offers an unfiltered look at country music's present challenges and future possibilities from those who've lived through its many evolutions. Tune in for genuine insider perspectives you won't hear on mainstream country radio.

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Viral Guitar Riffs and Prison Gigs w/Ben Gallaher :: Ep 61 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

What happens when raw talent meets unwavering authenticity in a music industry that often values trends over substance? Ben Gallaher's story provides a refreshing answer. From his early days beating on soup cans with pencils in Pennsylvania to becoming a guitar virtuoso whose viral riff captured 35 million views across social media, Ben's journey embodies the true spirit of musical craftsmanship.
The conversation takes us through the reality behind the glamour of "getting a record deal" – the regime changes, shelved recordings, and difficult decisions that tested Ben's commitment to his authentic sound. Rather than conform to the pop country trends that didn't fit his rock-infused vocal style, he chose the harder path of staying true to himself. "I'll be damned if I'm gonna go out and play shit that I hate," he candidly shares, revealing the courage required to maintain artistic integrity in an ever-changing industry.
Perhaps most moving is Ben's decade-long commitment to performing at state prisons throughout Pennsylvania. These raw, vulnerable performances connected his music with men at their lowest moments, demonstrating music's power to transcend circumstances. When an inmate who'd been incarcerated for 20 years told Ben his songs "changed my whole outlook on life," it crystallized why authenticity in music matters so deeply.
Now working with producer and beloved TTIAST co-host Neil Thrasher, Ben continues crafting music that honors his distinctive sound – guitar-driven, melodically rich, and genuinely reflective of who he is as an artist. His new EP featuring the single "Bullet" showcases this commitment, while his partnership with Thrasher promises even more honest, compelling music on the horizon.
Ready to experience what happens when authentic country meets rock-infused guitar work? Listen to Ben Gallaher's music, watch his powerful "Bullet" video, and witness an artist who understands that in music, as in life, the journey matters as much as the destination.

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Mustache and Music: The Rise of John Morgan :: Ep 60 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

A mustache, a North Carolina accent, and an impossibly high vocal range walk into a podcast studio – or more specifically, John Morgan walks in, bringing all three plus two recent #1 country hits to the conversation.
Morgan's journey reads like a Nashville fairy tale with an unexpected beginning. A chance meeting with songwriter John Edwards during an Uber ride led to a reconnection at Lucky Brand Jeans where Morgan was working. From there, a string of serendipitous events connected him with Jason Aldean's team, launching a career that's seen remarkable success in record time.
The conversation reveals how Morgan co-wrote "If I Didn't Love You," which became a massive hit for Aldean and Carrie Underwood. With disarming candor, he shares the rush of writing the song in a single evening as album deadlines loomed. "I didn't realize it would be a career-changing song," he admits, a testament to how quickly fortunes can change in Music City.
Between laughs and whiskey toasts, Morgan opens up about the surreal experience of touring with Aldean, including a hilarious moment when he "dribbled a little bit" after unexpectedly being called to sing a challenging high note in front of 30,000 fans. These stories paint a picture of the genuine relationships that have fueled his success – relationships that began with skepticism ("All of a sudden Aldean's calling? I don't think I believed it at first") and evolved into genuine creative partnerships.
Now balancing his skyrocketing career with being a father to three children under three years old, Morgan embodies the modern country artist – talented, hardworking, and refreshingly down-to-earth. "I've never had more to work for in my life," he reflects, capturing the drive that's taken him from playing in his father's woodworking shop to celebrating multiple #1 hits in a single month.
Ready to hear what authentic country talent sounds like? Join us for this conversation with one of Nashville's most exciting new voices and discover why timing, relationships, and raw talent still matter in music today.

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LA Riots 2025 :: BONUS EPISODE Try That in a Small Town Podcast Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

Violence erupts on the streets of Los Angeles as protests devolve into riots, leaving the guys feeling both infuriated and heartbroken. This special episode offers a raw, unfiltered conversation about the disturbing scenes unfolding in California.
We dive deep into what's really happening on the ground versus how it's being portrayed by some media outlets and political figures. The footage reveals protesters deliberately antagonizing police officers, throwing rocks, and setting fires – yet somehow being characterized as "mainly peaceful protests." Our discussion examines the tepid response from California's leadership, including Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass, comparing it to how presidential leadership traditionally responds during national crises.
The most emotional moments come when we discuss the human cost – especially for the families of law enforcement officers who must watch their loved ones being attacked while trying to maintain order. These aren't just uniforms; they're fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters risking their safety to protect communities. The contrast between what's tolerated in major cities versus small-town America couldn't be clearer, reinforcing exactly they wrote the song "Try That in a Small Town."
This conversation goes beyond political talking points to examine the heart of what's at stake: public safety, respect for law enforcement, and the future direction of our cities. Whether you're from a small town or a major metropolitan area, this episode provides perspective on one of the most pressing issues facing our nation today.
Subscribe, share, and join the conversation as we continue to provide our honest take on the issues that matter most to everyday Americans.

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AMAs, Morgan vs. Post Malone, and Bruce Springsteen :: Ep 59 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

What happens when aging rock stars decide to bash America from overseas stages? In this spirited episode, the crew dives into Bruce Springsteen's controversial comments and why celebrities who once championed middle America now seem determined to alienate those very fans. "Trump hit a button in some of these people that just blew the lid off," they observe, questioning why stars risk relationships with loyal audiences for political statements.
The conversation shifts to a candid examination of the music industry's award system after Beyoncé and Post Malone recently won country music awards over Morgan Wallen. The hosts express deep skepticism about "fan voted" awards, arguing that Nashville executives have become dangerously disconnected from genuine country listeners. "Music Row will always be completely disconnected from the actual country listener," they assert, highlighting how industry decision-makers repeatedly misjudge what resonates with heartland audiences while chasing crossover appeal.
A highlight of the episode comes when K-Lo performs his hit "Laugh Until We Cry," followed by a moving discussion about how becoming a father transformed the song's meaning for him. This intimate moment showcases the authentic power of country songwriting – how lyrics crafted years earlier can evolve alongside life experiences. The hosts share inside stories about song origins and creative partnerships, giving listeners rare insight into the artistry behind the hits.
The episode closes with a passionate debate about college football's transformation under NIL deals, Brady and Belichick's legendary partnership, and what makes true leadership. Whether discussing music, sports, or politics, the conversation returns to one central theme: the growing divide between industry elites and the audiences they claim to serve.
Ready to join a conversation that doesn't shy away from hard truths? Listen now and discover why this podcast continues to connect with people who feel their perspectives are increasingly ignored by mainstream entertainment.

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The Warren Brothers - Old Friends, Hard Truths & Basketball with Tim McGraw :: Ep 58 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

Step into the creative minds of Nashville's legendary songwriting troublemakers, the Warren Brothers. Brett and Brad Warren's unfiltered conversation reveals how two boys from Tampa, Florida—raised in a household so strict they couldn't walk down the beer aisle at Publix—transformed into the hitmaking duo behind some of country music's most iconic songs.
Their journey unfolds like a country song itself—packed with unexpected twists, poignant revelations, and belly laughs. The brothers recount how basketball skills, not musical talent, secured their friendship with Tim McGraw (leading to 37 song cuts), and how their early co-writes with Tom Douglas taught them the vulnerability required for great songwriting. From homemade Earth Shoes to spearfishing with McGraw, their stories paint an authentic picture of Nashville's creative community at its most raw and genuine.
The conversation takes a powerful turn when the brothers discuss getting sober and the transformative shift from being "collectors of everyone else's energy" to serving others through their music. This perspective change coincided with their greatest successes, including McGraw's emotional war tribute "If You're Reading This" and Toby Keith's party anthem "Red Solo Cup"—a song they wrote as a joke that became a cultural phenomenon.
As they reflect on thirty years in the business, the Warrens share priceless insights about creative partnerships, the evolution of Nashville's sound, and finding purpose in an industry constantly reinventing itself. Their candid discussion about cherishing longstanding friendships and focusing on quality over quantity resonates far beyond songwriting, touching on universal truths about authenticity and legacy.
Whether you're a songwriter, music lover, or someone navigating your own creative journey, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your unique path, cherish meaningful connections, and find the courage to put your truth into your work. Subscribe now and join the conversation with the songwriting duo behind some of country music's most unforgettable hits.

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Faith, Family, and 80+ #1 Hits - Ashley Gorley's Songwriting Saga :: Ep 57 Try That in a Small Town Podcast May 26, 2025

Show notes

Ever wonder what it takes to write a hit song? Try writing 84 of them. Ashley Gorley has accomplished what many thought impossible – becoming the most successful commercial songwriter of all time, surpassing even Paul McCartney's legendary catalog. This record-breaking achievement didn't happen overnight; it was built on years of dedication, countless hours in writing rooms, and an unmatched work ethic.
From his humble beginnings making DJ remixes and blending acapellas with different musical backings, Gorley developed a versatile approach that would later serve him across multiple genres. While Nashville's country music scene became his primary canvas, his talents have extended far beyond, crafting hits for artists ranging from Jason Aldean and Morgan Wallen to Bon Jovi and even earning a Grammy nomination with Weezer.
What separates Gorley from other songwriters? Perhaps it's his unique process – often writing without touching an instrument, focusing purely on melody and lyrics before anything else. Or maybe it's his remarkable ability to sense a hit, though he admits being surprised when experimental songs like "That's My Kind of Night" and "T-Shirt" became massive successes. More likely, it's his philosophy of originality: "Don't write B versions of what's already out there... what can you bring to the table that we don't already have?"
Despite his professional triumphs, Gorley's priorities remain firmly rooted in faith and family. Rather than chasing material possessions, he's invested his success in experiences, taking his children on meaningful trips around the world and mentoring the next generation of songwriters. Through his publishing company, he's helped foster another 50 number one hits beyond his personal catalog.
For aspiring writers, his advice is both encouraging and sobering: find your creative community, be open to criticism, and prepare for rejection. The path isn't easy – Gorley wrote for seven years before his first hit – but for those willing to put in the work and offer something unique, Nashville still offers that rare opportunity where a great song can be recorded simply because someone loves it.

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From Hicktown to Headliner: Jason Aldean's 20-Year Musical Journey :: Ep 56 Try That in a Small Town Podcast May 19, 2025

Show notes

Twenty years ago, a small-town Georgia man with a dream released "Hicktown" and changed country music forever. Now, Jason Aldean sits down with us to unpack the remarkable journey from those uncertain early days to stadium-headlining superstardom.
In this revealing conversation, Aldean takes us behind the velvet rope of the music industry, sharing how he nearly passed on songs that became career-defining hits and watched others he declined become massive successes for fellow artists. "I think songs land where they're supposed to," he reflects, detailing his instinctive approach to selecting material that genuinely resonates with him rather than chasing trends or concepts.
The camaraderie between Aldean and the podcast hosts creates an intimate atmosphere as they reminisce about the lean years—playing to near-empty rooms, surviving on gas station food, and the faithful few who saw something special before the rest of the world caught on. Particularly moving is Aldean's tribute to producer Michael Knox, the one person who never abandoned ship when record deals fell apart: "I owe that guy everything."
Exclusive reveals about his upcoming album (including multiple high-profile duets) will excite longtime fans, while his candid takes on everything from NFL draft picks to reality TV offers provide a glimpse at the man behind the music. Aldean's perspective on artistic integrity resonates throughout, especially when discussing how streaming has changed listeners' relationship with music: "I think a little bit of that's lost now."
Whether you've followed Aldean since "Hicktown" or discovered him through "Try That in a Small Town," this conversation offers both nostalgia and fresh insights from an artist who's remained true to himself through two decades of country music evolution. Subscribe now and join us for this unforgettable journey through the highs, lows, and everything in between with one of country's most authentic voices.

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Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co

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