Try That in a Small Town Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Jason Whitlock - Speaking Truth in a Cultural Storm :: Ep 55 Try That in a Small Town Podcast May 12, 2025

Show notes

What happens when one of media's most outspoken voices sits down with the writers behind "Try That in a Small Town"? A raw, unfiltered conversation that cuts through the noise of today's cultural battles.
Jason Whitlock brings his signature fearlessness to the podcast, sharing personal stories about growing up in Indianapolis where his father owned several bars in working-class Black neighborhoods. These formative experiences shaped his perspective on community, faith, and the shared values that transcend racial divides. With candid humor and piercing insight, Whitlock challenges the hosts and listeners alike to consider how today's cultural climate has created unexpected shifts in American music.
The discussion takes a fascinating turn as Whitlock explains his journey into country music after moving to Nashville in 2020. Having grown up primarily listening to R&B and rap, he found himself drawn to the authentic storytelling and emotional depth of artists like Morgan Wallen and Aaron Lewis. This leads to a powerful observation about how great art emerges from struggle, and how today's country music gives voice to Americans who feel silenced or marginalized by mainstream culture.
Throughout the episode, the conversation weaves between music, faith, politics, and personal responsibility. Whitlock doesn't shy away from controversial topics, challenging conventional wisdom about race relations, gender roles, and the importance of Biblical values in modern society. His perspective on the courage required to stand apart from the crowd resonates deeply with the songwriters, who share their own experiences of creating music that pushes against cultural expectations.
Whether you're passionate about music, cultural commentary, or just appreciate authentic conversation that doesn't follow predictable scripts, this episode offers refreshing honesty and thought-provoking insights. Listen now and join the conversation about what it really means to speak your truth in today's divided America.

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The Changing Face of Nashville's Music Row :: Ep 54 Try That in a Small Town May 05, 2025

Show notes

Remember when Nashville's Music Row was lined with old houses turned publishing companies and studios? When writers walked songs across the street to publishers and artists mingled at the 16th Avenue Café? Those days are fading into memory, replaced by high-rises and corporate offices that barely resemble the creative community that built country music.
In this nostalgic yet forward-looking conversation, the guys reflect on Music Row's transformation and what it means for the future of songwriting. Neil shares the surprising story of his spontaneous wedding at the Music Row Wedding Chapel ("We tracked five songs, did vocals and harmonies, and then decided to get married"), while the others reminisce about Nashville landmarks that have disappeared with time.
The discussion moves beyond physical changes to the deeper shifts in how music is created and consumed today. When streaming pays fractions of pennies split between multiple songwriters, creating "forever songs" becomes economically challenging. As Kurt explains, "It's hard for songwriters to get excited anymore. I don't get excited if I see somebody putting out a song on social media because you don't make any money." Despite touting millions of streams, many artists struggle to sell concert tickets, revealing the disconnect between digital numbers and real-world impact.
Yet through their frustrations, these veteran songwriters demonstrate why they've survived in the business: genuine passion for the craft. Even without financial incentive, the validation of sharing a great song idea with respected collaborators provides enough fuel to keep creating. They propose that giving songwriters a percentage of master recordings might help preserve the quality songwriting that built Nashville's reputation.
Whether you're a songwriter, music industry professional, or simply a country music fan, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolution of Music City. Subscribe now and join the conversation about preserving what matters in music while embracing inevitable change.

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Cledus T Judd - Addictions & Redemption, and a Country Music Journey :: Ep 53 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

From competing in the World Championships of Hairdressing to contemplating suicide on a bridge in Florida, Cledus T Judd's journey to Nashville stardom defies all expectations. In this deeply vulnerable conversation, the country music parody artist takes us behind the laughter to reveal the demons he battled along the way.
Standing in his mother's double-wide trailer, watching Vince Gill win at the CMAs, Cledus made an impossible promise that would change his life forever. With nothing but determination, he slept in walk-in closets, under parking lot lights, and drove through ice storms with frostbitten fingers – all while pursuing his unlikely dream. The turning point came when he heard Tim McGraw's "Indian Outlaw" on the radio and spontaneously created the parody that would launch his career.
What makes this episode extraordinary isn't just Cledus's comedic talents, but the surprising kindness he encountered from Nashville's biggest stars. Vince Gill fulfilling a promise to meet his mother. Toby Keith offering a private plane during family emergencies and championing him to arena crowds when he couldn't be there. These aren't just celebrity encounters – they're profound moments of humanity in an often cutthroat business.
Most powerful is Cledus's raw account of addiction and redemption. Standing in a hospital bathroom the day his daughter was born, cocaine in hand, he made a choice that would save his life. The quarter he dropped that day still sits in his wallet – a reminder of the moment everything changed. From reconciliation with his estranged father to heart-wrenching final conversations with his mother, Cledus reveals how the deepest pain can become purpose when channeled into helping others find recovery.
This conversation will make you laugh, cry, and reconsider what you think you know about the people behind the music. Listen now and discover why humor might be the most powerful survival tool of all.

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Michael Knox - From 40 Rejected Showcases to Artist of the Decade :: Ep 52 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Apr 20, 2025

Show notes

Michael Knox, the visionary producer behind Jason Aldean's groundbreaking sound, pulls back the curtain on one of country music's most remarkable success stories. Knox's candid revelations about their journey expose the harsh realities of Nashville's music business—an incredible 40 showcase rejections, multiple lost record deals, and years of struggle before breakthrough success.
What makes this conversation extraordinary is hearing how Knox deliberately architected Aldean's revolutionary sound when mainstream Nashville wasn't ready for it. "The whole plan with Jason was to be Tim McGraw's nightmare, to be the replacement of that generation," Knox explains. "You can't do that if you don't cover all the bases—I can tear your head off, steal your girl, make you cry."
Knox shares fascinating production stories, including how executives at Broken Bow Records first heard "Hicktown" with a broken speaker that eliminated the electric guitar parts—yet still loved it. He reveals the battles fought for now-iconic songs like "She's Country," "Big Green Tractor," and "Dirt Road Anthem"—all initially dismissed as career-ending risks by industry gatekeepers.
The conversation takes a personal turn when Knox discusses his father, Buddy Knox, who had the first self-written #1 hit in rock and roll history ("Party Doll") yet remains excluded from the Rock Hall of Fame. This family connection illuminates Knox's deep understanding of the music business's often unfair nature and his determination to help Aldean succeed against overwhelming odds.
What emerges is a masterclass in artistic vision and perseverance. In today's era of overnight TikTok sensations, Knox questions whether artists who haven't weathered rejection and struggle can develop the character needed for lasting careers. "These people today don't suffer like that," he reflects, celebrating the hard-earned journey that shaped Aldean's authentic connection with fans.

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Hulk Hogan: From Rock Star Dreams to Wrestling Icon :: Ep 51 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

From sending audition tapes to Metallica and The Rolling Stones to becoming one of wrestling's most iconic figures, Hulk Hogan's journey through entertainment spans nearly five decades of unexpected twists and reinventions.
In this deeply personal conversation, the 71-year-old WWE Hall of Famer pulls back the curtain on his early years, revealing how he transitioned from playing bass guitar six nights a week in southeastern clubs to wrestling as "The Super Destroyer" for just $25 a match. Hogan shares surprising stories about living in his van on Pensacola Beach, quitting wrestling multiple times to work as a longshoreman, and how Vince McMahon Sr. gave him the name that would change pop culture forever.
The wrestling legend divulges shocking behind-the-scenes details about his breakthrough role as Thunderlips in Rocky III – including how he negotiated his $14,000 payment with Sylvester Stallone and subsequently got fired from the WWF for taking the part. Even more surprising is his revelation about the famous 1984 Madison Square Garden match against the Iron Sheik, where a competing promoter allegedly offered the Sheik $100,000 to legitimately break Hogan's leg.
Beyond the nostalgic wrestling tales, Hogan speaks candidly about his spiritual journey, describing how he's found peace through faith after the physical toll of ten back surgeries and countless other injuries from his wrestling career. Now running Hogan's Hangout in Tampa and promoting his Real American Beer, he reflects on the profound impact his character had on generations of fans worldwide.
Whether you grew up watching Hulkamania run wild or simply appreciate stories of perseverance and reinvention, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the man behind the 24-inch pythons. Subscribe now and share your favorite Hulk Hogan memories in the comments!

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Standing in God's Light: John Rich's Fearless Path :: Ep 50 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

Country music maverick John Rich pulls no punches in this raw, unfiltered conversation about his remarkable journey through the Nashville music scene. Describing himself as an "anomaly chaser," Rich reveals how his greatest successes came from championing the unexpected talents and sounds that traditional Nashville often rejected.
The multi-platinum artist and three-time ASCAP Songwriter of the Year takes us behind the curtain of the legendary "Music Mafia" movement – 72 consecutive Tuesday night jam sessions at Nashville's tiny Pub of Love that launched the careers of Gretchen Wilson, Big & Rich, and others. Rich's storytelling about fighting to include "Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)" on an album when executives insisted it would ruin their credibility offers a master class in trusting artistic instincts over industry formulas.
From his early firing from Lone Star to writing Jason Aldean's breakthrough hits ("Hicktown," "Amarillo Sky"), Rich shares the hard-won wisdom of building a sustainable career through unwavering authenticity. The conversation takes surprising turns as he candidly discusses his spiritual awakening and transformation in his 40s, leading to a deeper purpose behind his music and public voice.
Perhaps most compelling is Rich's unflinching account of speaking truth to power – including confronting former President Trump about vaccines at a private dinner with senators present. This commitment to conviction regardless of consequences reflects his approach to both his faith and his craft – an unwillingness to compromise his values for acceptance or approval.
Whether you're a longtime country music fan or simply appreciate stories of resilience and reinvention, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the mind of an artist who has consistently defied industry expectations while creating some of country music's most enduring anthems. Subscribe now and join us for an unforgettable conversation about music, faith, and the courage to stand your ground.

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S E49: Senator Marsha Blackburn :: The Constitutional Right to Create and Be Paid - Ep 49 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Mar 31, 2025

Show notes

Senator Marsha Blackburn steps into our world of irreverent music talk and delivers something unexpected – a candid glimpse into her political future and passionate defense of songwriters' rights that left us all captivated.
The conversation begins with her powerful statement on creators' constitutional rights. "Songwriters, our creators, our musicians have a constitutional right to benefit from their creations," she explains, grounding her advocacy in Article I, Section 8, Clause 8 of the Constitution. As musicians ourselves, we immediately recognize we're talking with someone who fundamentally understands our industry's challenges.
She breaks down her legislative initiatives with clarity rarely seen from politicians discussing creative industries. The No Fakes Act tackles AI's threat to artists' voices and likenesses, while her groundbreaking Songwriters Equity Act allows creators to pay capital gains rather than ordinary income tax when selling their catalogs. "A catalog is not an album. A catalog is your life work," she explains, capturing the essence of a songwriter's business reality in one perfect line.
When discussing her recent FCC letter addressing modern payola practices, we share our own experiences with radio stations demanding free performances for airplay. The conversation reveals her deep understanding of how industry exploitation evolves and her commitment to countering it with practical solutions.
Then comes the moment that caught us completely off guard – her forthright answer about running for Tennessee governor: "I'm giving a good, serious look at running for governor. And if I run, I will win." This unscripted revelation speaks volumes about both her confidence and comfort level with our podcast's freewheeling style.
The episode wraps with her vision for America's conservative future and Tennessee's potential leadership role. Whether you're a musician concerned about your rights, a policy wonk interested in creative economy issues, or just someone who enjoys genuine conversations with public figures, this episode offers surprising insights and unfiltered moments you won't hear in traditional political interviews.

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DC Draino: From Hollywood to Hushed Hashtags :: Ep 48 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

When DC Draino (A.K.A. Rogan O'Handley) walked away from a prestigious Hollywood entertainment law career and a $500,000 salary offer, he wasn't just changing jobs – he was answering what he describes as a divine calling to join a battle for America's soul.
This captivating conversation reveals the extraordinary personal costs of standing up for conservative principles in hostile territory. As a successful attorney representing major entertainment clients, Rogan created an anonymous Instagram account called @DC_ Drano to express his political views while maintaining his professional facade. What began as a secret outlet transformed into a life-altering mission that led him to sell his California home, end relationships, and move across the country with no guarantee of success.
"I truly believe God is calling up the officers of his army to lead the troops into this biblical battle," Rogan explains, framing his dramatic life change as part of a larger spiritual purpose. His story resonates with anyone who's faced the difficult choice between comfortable conformity and speaking their truth.
The conversation takes fascinating turns as Rogan shares intimate details of dining with President Trump at Mar-a-Lago, including Trump's special pretzel bread "with a layer of frosting" of salt, his role as DJ for the dining room, and how he introduces guests. Rogan also recounts his surreal experience being handed the Epstein files in the White House and meeting with officials in the current administration.
Beyond personal anecdotes, this episode explores significant cultural shifts like the surprising conservative tilt among younger generations and the judicial resistance facing the Trump administration. For anyone interested in the intersection of personal conviction, politics, and America's cultural evolution, this conversation offers extraordinary insights from someone who left everything behind to follow his principles.

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Finding Purpose After Special Forces: Josh Burch's Journey :: Ep 47 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

What happens when the mission ends? For Josh Burch, a 20-year veteran Green Beret, the transition from elite warrior to civilian brought unexpected challenges that mirror those faced by countless veterans. From humble beginnings as a high school dropout working construction jobs in Tennessee, Josh's life changed course when his grandfather shared a simple but profound piece of wisdom: "As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another."
That moment set Josh on a path that would lead through the grueling Special Forces selection process, mastering Arabic, and numerous deployments to the Middle East. But perhaps his greatest challenge came after hanging up his uniform. Like many veterans, Josh initially planned to simply hunt and fish in retirement. Instead, he discovered a deeper calling that speaks to anyone facing major life transitions.
Now serving as the director of people for the Honor Foundation, Josh helps special operations veterans navigate the complex journey from military to civilian life. The three-month program addresses not just practical concerns like resume building, but the more profound challenges of identity and purpose. "For so long we've been a part of something bigger than ourselves," Josh explains, "and being a Green Beret, that's who I was, but that's not who I am."
His insights on finding purpose after losing a defining identity resonate beyond military circles. Whether you're leaving a career, changing direction, or searching for meaning in a new chapter of life, Josh's experience offers valuable perspective on what it means to remain part of something bigger than yourself.
Ready to be inspired? Listen now and discover how small town values of community, mentorship, and service continue to shape Josh's mission to ensure no warrior faces their next battle alone.

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Wrestling Matches, Playing Live When Others Don't and Vitamin Store Encounters :: Ep 46 Try That in a Small Town Podcast Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

Ever wondered which artists actually *play* their instruments on award shows? There are ways you can spot who's faking it by their impractical outfits - "long leather coats and scarves and things that you could never play live in." This episode pulls back the curtain on the music industry with hilarious candor and insider perspectives you won't hear anywhere else.
The podcast kicks off with a story that defies belief - a seemingly innocent trip to a vitamin store turns into an awkward invitation to "wrestle" in someone's basement. This laugh-out-loud encounter sets the tone for an episode filled with authentic, unfiltered stories from the road. The genuine chemistry between the hosts creates moments of spontaneous humor that will have you feeling like you're sitting in on a conversation with old friends.
From performing at American Idol during its peak viewership to early days playing outside Vegas casinos when "no one even knows what they're listening to," the band's journey is shared through vivid storytelling that captures both the glamour and grind of the music industry. Their preference for bus travel over flying, despite longer journey times, offers a glimpse into the realities of touring life and what keeps them grounded.
The conversation takes unexpected turns, including an embarrassing misidentification of a neighborhood pipeline as the famous Keystone Pipeline and thoughtful reflections on the importance of respecting democratic processes regardless of political affiliations. With each story, listeners gain deeper insight into the personalities behind the music and the authentic relationships that sustain long-term success in the entertainment industry.
Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to join our community and never miss an episode of these unfiltered conversations that bring you the real stories behind the music.

______________________________________________________________________________________________
SPONSORS:

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Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co

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