Try That in a Small Town Podcast

Try That Podcast
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

In 2023, Jason Aldean's groundbreaking song and video "Try That In A Small Town" resonated with a resurgence of conservative values in America. The writers of the song, Kurt, Neil, Tully, and Kelley, took the opportunity to launch the Try That In A Small Town Podcast. This platform allows them to reveal the true inspiration behind the song and discuss the importance of common-sense values. With a lineup of influential guests, the hosts will entertain you with the stories behind their music, while also addressing challenging topics affecting our communities and country.

  1. 1D AGO

    ACM Awards Fallout: Morgan Wallen Snub & Ella Langley’s Big Night :: Ep 110 TTIAST

    The Try That In A Small Town crew dives into the 2024 ACM Awards – the politics, the snubs, and the few moments that actually delivered. From Morgan Wallen being shut out, to Ella Langley’s historic run, to Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Zach Top, Kane Brown, Parker McCollum, and more, the guys break down who deserved what and where country music is really headed. They also talk about TikTok-ready story songs like “Choosing Texas,” the future of traditional-leaning artists, how award shows are losing legitimacy with fans, and why the industry keeps cloning the same “country boy” image. Plus: a small-town hero who saved a family from a fire, drive-thru rim damage, broken-English call centers, and a McDonald’s “fresh” muffin story. Perfect for country fans, songwriters, and anyone who’s over the BS of modern award shows. Timed Highlights: 2:16 – Studio chaos, heat, and golf talk in the eSpaces room 3:18 – Peacemaker Coffee plug and the truth about roast caffeine levels 4:32 – Shoulder MRI results: torn bicep, torn rotator cuff, and surgery date 16:05 – Instagram subscriptions and bonus content tease 16:44 – Confession: who actually watched the ACM Awards (and who didn’t) 18:20 – Lainey Wilson’s opener: high energy vs memorable songs debate 22:36 – Laney’s lack of a clear “signature” song and expectations for her writing 23:22 – Miranda Lambert’s “Crisco” performance reaction 24:44 – Riley Green and Ella Langley: onstage “pajamas” tension 33:31 – Why fans are losing faith in award shows and ratings 36:29 – Megan Moroney’s many nominations and zero wins 42:48 – Group of the Year: Red Clay Strays and the new darlings of country 45:18 – “Best they/them duo?” Pushing back on where categories might go 47:05 – Why Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, and Rascal Flatts are selling more tickets now 48:01 – Disposable songs vs timeless 90s/2000s country 48:20 – Red Clay Strays sell out Bridgestone: how fans find music now 48:54 – Encouraging signs: more traditional-leaning performances at the ACMs 49:44 – Parker McCollum wins Album of the Year over Morgan Wallen 50:37 – “Choosing Texas” wins Song/Single of the Year and just how massive it is 52:51 – Somewhere Over Laredo vs Somewhere Over The Rainbow and copyright splits 55:09 – Tucker Wetmore: Morgan/Riley clone, performance debate, and industry blame 59:12 – Zach Top’s 90s throwback lane: can it really last? 1:02:27 – Why traditional acts must have truly great songs to survive 1:03:21 – Kane Brown’s “Woman” and trying to stay country 1:08:20 – Why Ella Langley feels so believable and why her stool performance worked 1:09:34 – Dancers in country: necessary or cheesy? 1:11:09 – Grading the ACMs: starting at a 5 because of the Morgan snubs 1:12:34 – What the ACMs are signaling to fans by ignoring Morgan Wallen 1:13:58 – How the snubs actually pour jet fuel on Morgan’s career 1:14:55 – The legitimacy problem when the biggest artists don’t show up 1:16:46 – Speculating on why the industry still hasn’t moved on from Morgan’s incident 1:16:54 – New Male Artist: Tucker Wetmore; New Female Artist: Avery Anna 1:21:01 – “No cause for alarm” text actually is cause for alarm: contract story teaser 1:21:39 – Contract options and income surprises: more to come 1:22:29 – Small town hero: Officer Eli Rogers saves a family from an apartment fire 1:23:18 – Why stories like Eli’s embody “Try That In A Small Town” 1:23:59 – Dipshit of the Week: broken-English call centers and customer service 1:31:32 – Why the ACMs feel like BS but we still care about songs, fans, and country music __________________________________________________________________________ SPONSORS: The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces! Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every Business Book a tour today at espaces.com From the Patriot Mobile studios: Don’t get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don’t and they can’t! Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOT Right now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN. Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!! Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory. Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.com Peacemaker Coffee Company Founded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs. https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/ _________________________________________________________________________ Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com - For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.com Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 25m

  2. MAY 18

    Rock Docs, AI Songwriting, Cruise Nightmares and Road-Game Injuries :: Ep 109 Try That in Small Town Podcast

    From Toradol shots and “rock docs” on the road, to AI tools like Suno reshaping Nashville, to cruise-ship horror stories and fans yelling requests at charity shows… this episode of Drive That in a Small Town goes all over the map in the best way.   The guys swap stories about playing hurt on tour, getting hooked up by “rock docs,” demolishing Luke Bryan’s band in flag football, near-disastrous 100-yard dashes, and getting smoked by a college women’s softball team. They also take a hard look at AI in songwriting, the death of old-school demo sessions, and how quality songs still rise above the noise.   You’ll also hear heartfelt praise for John Morgan’s heart for kids, a hilarious breakdown of Zach Bryan’s infamous fast-break clip, cruise stories including the notorious “Poop Cruise,” a peek into publishing contracts and quotas, and a “Dip Shit” segment calling out bad audience etiquette, shady neighbors, and 5-minute voice texts.   If you love small-town stories, country music, road-life chaos, and real talk about where the music business is headed, this one’s for you.   02:00 Shoulder sling, cortisone shots and playing hurt on the road   05:03 High-ankle sprain, Toradol, and “rock doc roulette” on tour   09:12 Behind the scenes: how rock docs keep shows from getting canceled   11:19 Golf postponed, one-armed putting, and Def Leppard drummer jokes   13:02 John Morgan at Bethel Bible Village: connecting with kids and staying late   14:25 John Morgan’s small-town roots and Chattanooga ties   14:42 Zach Bryan’s legendary fast break: live reaction to the clip   18:05 Is he a team player or just a chaotic fast break? Hoops talk and last-shot mentality   20:16 Who played what sport? Shortstop, field goal specialist, soccer and skateboarding handstands   22:15 Sponsor: Original Glory beer and Patriot Mobile   23:00 Neil’s college field goal career and the illness that changed his path to music   25:00 Spotting athletes on stage by how they move with their instruments   25:48 Flag football vs Luke Bryan’s band and a very lopsided score   27:00 Hungover 100-yard dash: who’s really the fastest?   29:24 Thomas Rhett vs Jay: 50-yard dash, gravel, and a brutal face-plant   30:30 Road games: Wiffle ball, basketball, softball and unhealthy competitiveness   32:41 Getting humbled by a college women’s softball team   33:04 Tennis, pickleball and even getting hurt playing video hockey   34:34 Women’s hockey, drunk women’s hockey and a TV-league tangent   34:55 Publishing meeting anxiety: “no cause for alarm” text and overthinking contracts   37:44 Song quotas vs quality: why the biggest years came from fewer songs   39:21 Suno AI demos, ChatGPT lyrics and “shining up a turd”   42:20 Why AI is scary for real creatives and how it masks bad songwriting   43:42 Who owns AI-generated masters and what happens when tools get better?   46:02 The death of Nashville demo sessions and what’s been lost for musicians and engineers   49:21 Why a real band in a room can’t be replaced, and how ears have changed   50:54 Hearing untuned vocals again and why imperfection feels so good   52:04 Cruise people vs non-cruise people and the infamous “Poop Cruise”   53:20 Disney Cruise and Castaway Cay: the one cruise they actually loved   55:16 The Venice/Disney Magic gig almost everyone in the band was offered   56:10 Hantavirus on cruise ships and mysterious “wives overboard” stories   58:09 Dip Shit segment: drunk fans yelling at benefits and show etiquette   01:01:09 Neighbor overcharging on landscaping: calling out the rip-off   01:02:55 Voice-text etiquette: why anything over 30 seconds is a problem   ______________________________________________________________________________________________ SPONSORS:  The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces! Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every Business Book a tour today at espaces.com From the Patriot Mobile studios: Don’t get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don’t and they can’t! Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOT Right now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN. Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!! Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory. Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.com Peacemaker Coffee Company Founded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs. https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.com Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 5m

  3. MAY 11

    Inside Trump’s Oval Office: Aldean Crew’s Surreal White House Visit :: Ep 108 Try That in a Small Town Podcast

    The Try That In A Small Town Podcast crew is back with a wild mix of gear talk, surgery updates, politics, and one unforgettable trip to the White House. Kurt and Tully break down their VIP visit to Washington, DC for Jason Aldean’s birthday, including standing in the Oval Office with President Trump, checking out the “Lewinsky room,” seeing historic artifacts up close, and reacting to Trump’s Presidential Walk of Fame in the colonnade. The guys also dive into Trump’s impact on safety, the economy, the border, and Iran, and whether hardcore haters will ever admit anything positive by the end of his term. On the lighter side, there’s shoulder surgery pain, a new Try That In A Small Town coffee line, a full-on rant about grown men wearing sandals on the golf course, and a sketchy doctor’s office still asking for Social Security numbers right after being hacked. 00:14 Swing-arm mic envy and Rascal Flatts headset jokes 02:53 The real “elephant in the room”: Kurt’s arm sling and shoulder pain 04:39 MRI coming up and why rehab isn’t enough this time 07:40 Setting up Jason Aldean’s DC birthday trip and sightseeing plans 08:46 Smithsonian, National Archives, and seeing Lincoln’s hat 10:36 How the VIP White House tour and Oval Office visit came together 11:27 First steps into the Oval Office and the weight of history 13:03 The “Lewinsky room” and Trump’s private swag shop 15:12 Trump-signed Bibles and presidential challenge coins everywhere 17:16 Trump’s Presidential Walk of Fame in the colonnade and the Biden plaque 19:12 Would anyone ever admit “maybe Trump wasn’t that bad”? 23:37 Safety, border, DC being clean again, and media spin 28:29 Economy, gas prices, inflation, and how people will judge this presidency 32:37 “Do you feel safer?” and what hardcore Trump haters will never say out loud 37:51 Democratic process, midterms, and Trump’s strategic timing 38:30 Ad read: Original Glory beer and Patriot Mobile 38:59 Social media backlash to the White House photos 40:13 New “Try That In A Small Town” coffee line and flavor names 41:39 Coffee review from Mom: bold but not bitter 39:40 (segment flows) Introducing “dip sh*tty” targets of the week 40:39 Sandals on the golf course and a full anti-man-feet rant 43:28 The yacht story: when nasty feet ruin a radio event 46:22 Doctor’s office gets hacked… then still asks for Social Security numbers 48:01 Replacing debit cards, data everywhere, and security frustration 48:40 Augusta story, golf etiquette, and strict dress-code culture ______________________________________________________________________________________________ SPONSORS:  The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces! Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every Business Book a tour today at espaces.com From the Patriot Mobile studios: Don’t get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don’t and they can’t! Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOT Right now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN. Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!! Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory. Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.com Peacemaker Coffee Company Founded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs. https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com - For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.com Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    53 min

  4. MAY 4

    Road Life With Aldean, Casino Carnage, Conspiracies & Golf Chaos :: Ep 107 Try That in a Small Town Podcast

    The boys are back in the Patriot Mobile Studios powered by E|Spaces, recapping a wild run on the road with Jason Aldean, late-night casino losses, Neil’s killer benefit performance, and plans for an epic golf grudge match. Then they pivot into government/alien conspiracies, the death of “free” sports TV, and a fresh round of Dip S****y of the Week. From bus hockey and blackjack in Oklahoma to Area 51 stories, New York tax drama, and honoring small-town hero principal Kirk Moore, this one is wall-to-wall road stories, rants, and laughs. Timestamps 01:39 Road run recap: Neil joins Aldean’s tour 02:36 Bus life, twin buses, and late-night NHL video game wars 04:36 Aldean troubleshooting the Wi-Fi like the band’s IT guy 05:24 Oklahoma golf, old-school course, and Kurt left off the tee sheet 07:16 First casino show, Neil as “guitar tech” and getting footage 07:32 Blackjack in Oklahoma: ante every hand and the endless shoe 08:45 Everyone’s losing, ATM trips, and the slide into craps 10:09 Security vs. gamblers: “It’s four hours to the next gig, we’re fine” 11:07 Reality check: it’s actually an eight-hour bus ride 12:16 Neil’s allergy battle, steroids, and dragging into the next show 13:05 Private benefit show setup and crowd size 13:48 Neil’s solo opener and “Night Train” setlist drama 14:35 Side-stage support: Aldean and the guys watch Neil crush it 15:32 “There Goes My Life” and why it always slays 16:22 Doing it for the kids and Elvis-ing out after the benefit 16:36 Bus hockey, Neil completely hitting the wall 17:31 Road DNA vs. home life – why no one goes straight to bed 18:12 Aldean’s schedule, sleep discipline, and protecting the voice 19:15 High-end sports card obsession on the bus 20:09 Getting home, sleeping it off, and turkey hunting at 3 a.m. 20:38 Could Kayla hang on the bus? Road stamina debate 21:22 Work trips, mobile studio rig, and writing/recording on the road 22:41 Whiskey on the guitar: the dressing room spill story 24:02 Original Glory ad read and small-town investment plug 24:36 Patriot Mobile ad and values (1st/2nd Amendment, life, military) 25:22 Dreaming again about an RV / work bus and early pod expectations 26:23 Looking back: tattoos, million followers, and the Winnebago dream 27:07 All Access motor coach sponsorship idea 27:34 Neil’s road trip recap buttoned up 27:58 Conspiracy hour: dead scientists and weird “suicides” 28:37 Are other countries targeting our brightest minds? 29:44 Alien/UFO thread and government secrecy questions 31:46 Area 51 stories from the late 90s and getting turned around by Jeeps 33:08 Do they believe in aliens? Biblical angle and demonic deception theory 34:22 What’s really at Area 51 – missile base or decoy? 35:09 Jim jumps in: living in Vegas, deep-diving Area 51, and the S4 doc 36:00 Streaming sports rant: too many apps to watch one team 37:01 NFL on YouTube, Peacock, Netflix, and subscription fatigue 37:55 DirecTV vs YouTube TV and paying twice for the same games 38:31 “Package” upgrades that still don’t have all the sports 40:02 More casino anger: losing thousands and drinks still not free 41:00 Aldean’s wrapped “drug money” stacks on the bus 41:45 Why they still kind of love casino nights anyway 42:08 Oklahoma hero principal Kirk Moore update – shot protecting students 41:59 Prom king moment and why they want him on the podcast 42:41 Mission: get Kirk Moore to a show and on the pod 43:25 How GPS and smartphones changed navigation and memory 44:07 Losing laminates, AirTags on tour passes, and tracking them in casinos 45:06 Golf range finders, AirTags, and expensive gear that always gets lost 46:01 Phone GPS vs range finder lasers and why golfers don’t trust tech 46:30 Range finder magnets on carts – brilliant way to sell more units 47:03 Masters meltdowns and 10s on par 5s – pros are human too 48:12 Why golf can be miserable if you’re not a player 49:10 No etiquette in this crew: non-stop ribbing on the course 49:44 You need tough skin to be in this friend group 50:24 Planning “The Match”: format, handicaps, and who gets Tully 51:27 Shamble vs scramble and how to make it fair with Neil 52:16 Handicaps, past form, and how the mental game wrecks Kayla 53:01 Golf as life-ruiner: the little white ball in your brain 53:23 Committing to make the golf match happen in May 53:55 Dip S****y of the Week: public phone audio with no headphones 55:02 Rudeness in modern life and lack of basic courtesy 57:14 Crosswalk behavior: assuming cars see you while you’re on your phone 58:37 Do you scurry in crosswalks or drag your feet? 59:12 Taxing the rich: New York politics, commercial real estate and exits 1:01:07 Capitalism, church tithes, and who actually funds things 1:02:26 Islamic movement, spiritual concerns, and NYC post-9/11 1:03:16 Queens street takeover and Palestinian flags 1:04:09 Social media as a double-edged sword: awareness vs outrage 1:05:29 Kurt’s “Kurt, what’s up?” ticket-text pet peeve 1:06:22 The pressure trap of vague texts from people who want favors 1:08:01 Pauls Valley, OK, July 24 show and finding Kirk Moore 1:08:39 Two-year anniversary of the podcast 1:09:17 Listener support, comments, and platforms ramping up 1:10:05 Wrap-up and call to follow, subscribe, share, rate, and grab merch ______________________________________________________________________________________________ SPONSORS:  The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces! Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every Business Book a tour today at espaces.com From the Patriot Mobile studios: Don’t get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don’t and they can’t! Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOT Right now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN. Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!! Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory. Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.com Peacemaker Coffee Company Founded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs. https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com - For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.com Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 12m

  5. APR 27

    Taylor Hicks: American Idol Secrets and the Broadway Grind :: Ep 106 Try That in a Small Town Podcast

    American Idol Season 5 winner Taylor Hicks joins Try That In A Small Town to unpack how Hurricane Katrina accidentally sent him to the Vegas auditions, what Simon Cowell really thought at first, and the strategy he used to “play the game” and win Idol at its peak. Taylor breaks down crazy behind-the-scenes Idol stories, the early days of 360 deals, going from a 60-cap bar to Southeast Asia arenas in six months, writing and singing the Paul Finebaum Show theme, and grinding through 576 Broadway shows in a 40-foot ice cream cone as Teen Angel in Grease. He also teases his new single “The Mirror,” cut at Sun Records with Memphis horns and a southern rock vibe. Plus: a hilarious “DipShidiots” segment on airport bathrooms, oversized carry-ons, public sneezers and more. Key Timestamps: 00:00 Taylor’s wild Hurricane Katrina-to-Idol audition story 11:45 Simon Cowell’s early rejection and later apology 23:00 Inside Idol strategy, 360-style deals and media “game play” 27:30 From small bar gigs to arenas and Southeast Asia 41:28 Broadway in Grease and life inside a 40-foot ice cream cone 55:30 New single “The Mirror” and current touring life 59:00 “DipShidiots” segment: pet peeves and airport stories ______________________________________________________________________________________________ SPONSORS:  The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces! Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every Business Book a tour today at espaces.com From the Patriot Mobile studios: Don’t get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don’t and they can’t! Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOT Right now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN. Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!! Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory. Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.com Peacemaker Coffee Company Founded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs. https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com - For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.com Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 10m

  6. APR 20

    ACM Noms, Morgan’s Snub, and a Small Town Hero :: Ep 105 Try That in a Small Town Podcast

    From the Patriot Mobile studio powered by E|Spaces, the guys dive into a packed episode of Try That In A Small Town.   They kick things off by reacting to the latest ACM Award nominations: who belongs, who doesn’t, and why politics still run the game. Entertainer, Group, Duo, New Artist, Album, Song, Single, and Musical Event of the Year all get the TTIAST treatment, with plenty of opinions on names like Morgan Wallen, Jason Aldean, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Megan Moroney, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, Alabama, Zac Brown Band, Parmalee, and more.   Kelly shares a huge personal milestone: after interning for Reba’s company back in the 90s, he finally lands his first Reba cut on a song written in 2005. That opens up a conversation about prayer, persistence, and whether Christians should pray about career and business. The guys revisit the backstory of “If I Didn’t Love You” (Jason Aldean and Carrie Underwood), from losing a duet slot to writing something ultra-specific on a deadline and watching it connect.   In the fan-favorite Dip S****y-its segment, they unload on Masters “pond jumpers,” public bathroom pee etiquette, clapping when servers drop dishes, trash in urinals, rental car abuse, and more everyday behaviors that drive them crazy.   They close with a powerful Small Town Hero story from Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, where a principal charged an armed student, took a bullet, and likely saved lives. It’s exactly the kind of “try that in a small town” courage the show was built to highlight.   If you like country music, songwriting war stories, small town grit, and unfiltered opinions, this one delivers from front to back.   Timed Highlights (Audio):   0:00 E|Spaces and Patriot Mobile studio intro   1:30 New mic arm, setup chatter, and moon-landing clip going viral   4:00 Moon rocks, Soviets, and joking about “disinformation”   5:10 The Brad Paisley song that “wouldn’t get cut” in 2026   6:00 Masculinity, political correctness, and “I’m still a guy” lyrics   7:30 Origin story: pink cupcakes at school, church culture, and irritation-fueled writing   10:00 Writing the song with Lee Miller and pitching it to Brad Paisley   11:30 Paisley’s issue with singing the word “guy” and nearly losing the cut   13:00 Corporate shows, offended “fancy guys,” and how Kelly softens the bit   14:00 Why fans love their award show breakdowns   14:30 Songwriter of the Year nominees and how political awards can be   15:50 Entertainer of the Year: Luke, Jelly Roll, Cody, Megan, Stapleton, Morgan, Lainey   16:40 Is Megan Moroney really ready for Entertainer of the Year?   17:20 Group of the Year confusion: 49 Winchester, Flatland Cavalry, Red Clay Strays, Old Dominion, Rascal Flatts   18:10 Where are Alabama, Zac Brown Band, and Parmalee?   19:10 Duo of the Year: Brooks & Dunn, Brothers Osborne, Dan + Shay, Thelma and James, Muscadine Bloodline   20:20 Admitting they haven’t even heard some nominees, despite being in the business   21:00 New Female Artist: quick thoughts on Avery Anna, Mackenzie Carpenter, Dasha, Caroline Jones, Emily Ann Roberts   21:40 New Male Artist: Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason, Shaboozey, Hudson Westbrook, Tucker Webb   22:30 Album of the Year: Zach Top, Carter Faith, Riley Green, Morgan Wallen, Parker McCollum   22:55 “If Morgan doesn’t win, call BS on the ACMs”   23:50 Song of the Year: Miranda/Stapleton, Megan Moroney, Ella Langley, Zach Top, Lainey Wilson   24:20 Consensus that “Choosing Texas” is massive   25:00 Musical Event of the Year: predicting a big night for Riley Green and Ella Langley   25:40 Single of the Year: Lainey, Cody, Zach Top, Ella, Megan   26:40 Neil missing a Riley Green writers round and golf event   27:30 Neil heading out on the road with Jason Aldean (and staying up late on the bus)   28:40 Original Glory beer and Patriot Mobile spots   30:20 Kelly’s answered prayer: Reba cuts his song from 2005   31:10 From Reba intern in the 90s to Reba cut in 2026   32:00 Co-writers Connie Harrington and Brett Beavers and the power of persistence   33:00 How one cut boosts morale and the next few writing days   33:40 Should Christians pray for career and business?   34:30 Praying for ideas, strength, and perseverance vs specific trophies   35:20 The “If I Didn’t Love You” story: losing a duet, writing on a mission   36:30 Late-night demo, quick mix, and Aldean’s instant reaction   38:00 Lessons in frustration, prayer, and not giving up   39:10 Neil’s Reba hit that nudged him from artist lane to full-time writer   40:10 Kelly/Lovelace/Loveless name confusion and growing up with a “girl’s name”   41:20 Army nameplate abuse and teasing a future long-form story   42:10 Launching into Dip S****y-its   42:40 Masters Par 3 “pond jumpers” at Augusta and tradition vs spectacle   44:20 Public bathroom pee etiquette: clean your own mess   46:30 Band life and cleaning up after other people’s bad aim   47:40 Clapping when a server drops dishes and why it’s mean, not funny   49:30 Gum and trash in urinals and the “not my problem” mentality   50:30 Rental car abuse vs taking care of what isn’t yours   51:20 The slow driver with the “Caution: Mowers Ahead” truck and the perfect podcast job   52:30 Small Town Hero: Oklahoma principal tackles armed student, takes a bullet   53:40 “Just do something” instead of filming or running   54:30 Why that kind of courage fits the show’s theme   55:30 Bethel Bible Village benefit with John Morgan in Chattanooga   56:30 Final thoughts on ACM noms and Megan Moroney as Entertainer   57:30 Listener call-to-action: subscribe, rate, and leave comments (love or hate)   58:30 Sign-off from TK, Kurt, and K-Low, Patriot Mobile studio powered by E|Spaces   ______________________________________________________________________________________________ SPONSORS:  The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces! Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every Business Book a tour today at espaces.com From the Patriot Mobile studios: Don’t get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don’t and they can’t! Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOT Right now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN. Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!! Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory. Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.com Peacemaker Coffee Company Founded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs. https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com - For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.com Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 4m

  7. APR 13

    Bad Days, Pride Nights, and Pajamas on Planes :: Ep 104 Try That In A Small Town Podcast

    The guys are back in the Patriot Mobile studio and this one goes deep fast. They kick things off with allergies, football withdrawal, and post-season sports, then dive into a raw and candid discussion about Pride Nights in sports, the “Cow Gays” controversy at a Predators game, and what it means to live and let live without having beliefs forced on you. From there, the crew shifts gears into whether we really landed on the moon, how they personally handle bad days, why everyone seems to live in sweatpants now, and their ongoing list of “dipshitty” behavior in everyday life. Along the way they talk songwriting recognition, plaques, neighborhood pet etiquette, Siri refusing to answer questions while driving, and a powerful moment of gratitude for U.S. special forces rescuing a downed pilot overseas. It is funny, tense, honest, and very human. Patriot Mobile, Original Glory, E-Spaces, and Peacemaker Coffee all get some love, plus a tease of the new Try That In A Small Town coffee line. 1:56 Daylight vs early darkness, fall vibes, and intros 2:39 Neil’s brutal allergies and Sudafed pharmacy hack 4:47 Old tour days: Cracker Barrel laminate hustle story 7:44 Correction segment: Aldean 30 number ones plaque drama 8:31 Do writers get the same plaques as label staff 9:21 Should plaques highlight the actual songwriters 10:14 Where to hang the new plaque and Peyton Manning tangent 10:41 Post-season blues: Masters, WNBA jokes, and NHL playoffs 12:18 Waiting for football, holidays, and May slump 12:56 Pride tape in the NHL and league pressure 13:42 The Cow Gays sing the anthem at Preds Pride Night 14:30 Why highlight sexuality at a hockey game 15:05 Are fans cheering for America, the team, or just “being gay” 16:09 Neil’s frustration: feeling beliefs are being pushed 17:19 Are team owners really in charge or owned by the league 17:54 Do leagues force Pride Nights on teams 18:43 Song topics and the Cow Gays’ first single 19:26 Are some artists getting chances only because of identity 20:11 Why the Cow Gays will struggle in mainstream country 21:01 Indie label reveal and punny “HoZac” moment 21:26 Talented but niche: why some good artists still may not last 22:02 Why make sexuality the brand instead of just being a great trio 23:24 Coming out at award shows and when it gets “too much” 24:30 Live and let live vs having beliefs pushed on kids 25:34 Everybody wants to live their life without constant culture wars 26:32 No one wants to explain every hot topic at a hockey game 27:02 Honest wrap up: you believe what you believe, we will too 27:54 Ad break: Original Glory beer spot 31:22 Back from break: Peacemaker Coffee and new TTIAST blends tease 33:49 Naming the coffee: Raised Up Right, Down The Road, Sucker Punch 34:41 Where the coffee will be available and pre order tease 35:18 Door holding for women and modern social etiquette recap 35:49 Pajamas in public: flights, stores, and church dress codes 36:33 High school kids wearing sweats and Uggs everywhere 37:01 Curt’s daughter trying to wear sweats to a nice NYC dinner 37:32 Wearing sweats on planes and the comfort debate 38:02 Slides, sweatpants, tank tops, and belly buttons on flights 38:24 “You look tired” might be the rudest backhanded compliment 38:46 Dress codes for restaurants and men showing up like beach bums 39:43 Wearing sweats to dinner and where to draw the line 40:09 Church attire: jeans, hats, and old school respect 41:36 Is dressing up for church tradition or biblical 43:08 Curt feeling suckered into hobo clothes in public 43:27 Artemis, looping the moon, and mission timing 44:17 Do you believe we landed on the moon the first time 45:27 Neil’s questions: Nixon’s landline to the moon in 1969 46:31 Who filmed the capsule taking off from the lunar surface 47:03 Comparing belief in the moon landing versus faith in Scripture 47:57 Flat Earthers, gravity, and standing upside down in New Zealand 49:21 Clarifying: asking questions vs outright disbelief 50:11 Curt and Neil land on: we probably did land, but some stuff is weird 51:01 The guys want listener feedback on moon landing beliefs 51:13 Why has it taken so long to go back and build anything on the moon 51:45 Future moon bases and using lunar resources 51:50 Transition: Kalo’s bad business day and emotional hole 52:08 Comfort eating, breaking the seal, and moo bar confessions 53:21 Food as coping, self awareness, and getting back on track 54:16 How each guy handles a truly bad day 56:05 Neil’s approach: prayer, perspective, and not internalizing it 56:43 Curt’s story of a truly awful March day and going nuclear 58:04 Channeling anger into phone calls, hard work, and doubling down 59:05 Music is subjective: one person’s opinion is not your career 1:00:01 Pizza deep dive: Jets toppings, olives, and cravings 1:00:40 Writing harder to prove the song and bouncing back 1:01:19 Using food and alcohol as past and present coping mechanisms 1:02:02 Honest tension, heavy topics, and feeling “stopped up” 1:02:27 Dipshitty segment: people who say “you look tired” 1:03:25 Neighborhood rant: off leash dogs in subdivisions 1:04:05 Safety, kids, and why leashes matter even for trained dogs 1:05:13 Kalo vs Siri: she refuses to answer non driving questions 1:06:44 Arguing with Siri and worrying about AI holding grudges 1:07:20 Siri’s driving logic vs human frustration 1:08:15 Neil’s highway rant: on-ramp texters doing 40 into 80 mph traffic 1:09:28 Dangerous driving and phones: an entire episode worth of material 1:10:23 Current events: downed U.S. pilot and rescue in Iran 1:12:29 Massive operation, special forces, and national pride 1:13:41 Thankful to be an American and awe at what our military does 1:14:03 Closing sponsor love: Peacemaker, Original Glory, Patriot Mobile, E-Spaces 1:14:49 Wrap up, thank yous, and website merch reminder ______________________________________________________________________________________________ SPONSORS:  The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces! Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every Business Book a tour today at espaces.com From the Patriot Mobile studios: Don’t get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don’t and they can’t! Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOT Right now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN. Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!! Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory. Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.com Peacemaker Coffee Company Founded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs.  https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/try-that-in-a-small-town-coffee ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com - For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.com Produced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 12m
  8. We Lose An Episode, Then Tell The Stories We Couldn’t Recreate :: Ep 103 Try That in a Small Town

    APR 6

    We Lose An Episode, Then Tell The Stories We Couldn’t Recreate :: Ep 103 Try That in a Small Town

    We hit stop on what felt like a “can’t miss” recording… and then realized it was gone. No dramatic metaphor, no grand lesson at first, just a missing file and that sinking feeling every creator knows. So we start over, and the redo turns into a rawer, funnier, more revealing conversation about what life looks like behind the curtain of the Nashville music scene and the touring grind. We talk songwriter rights and why NSAI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) matters right now, especially as streaming royalties keep shrinking and AI music raises new questions about ownership and fair pay. We also unpack how quickly the industry’s celebration rituals are fading, including the slow disappearance of real number one parties, even for writers who’ve waited decades for a breakthrough. If you care about the country music industry, music publishing, and how songwriters actually make a living, this one gets specific. Then we do what we do best: stories. Garth Brooks being shockingly present with fans and using third-person “Garth” logic to plan a moment, Brian Adams and Bob Seger doing their homework like pros, and the unforgettable Chris Cornell soundcheck where he looks over and says only one word: “Pick.” Add in Nashville etiquette debates, social media birthday cringe, an airport Starbucks wait that turns into self-inflicted misery, and our “dipshittiots” segment that bounces from Tiger Woods to the NBA to space launches and why movies don’t hit like they used to. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, leave a review, and come argue with us in the comments about which part was the most ridiculous. ______________________________________________________________________________________________SPONSORS:  The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces!Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every BusinessBook a tour today at espaces.comFrom the Patriot Mobile studios:Don’t get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don’t and they can’t!Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOTRight now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN.Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!!Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory.Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.comPeacemaker Coffee CompanyFounded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs. https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/________________________________________________________________________________________________ Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com -For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.comProduced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.co See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 17m
See All (116)

4.9
out of 5
181 Ratings

About

In 2023, Jason Aldean's groundbreaking song and video "Try That In A Small Town" resonated with a resurgence of conservative values in America. The writers of the song, Kurt, Neil, Tully, and Kelley, took the opportunity to launch the Try That In A Small Town Podcast. This platform allows them to reveal the true inspiration behind the song and discuss the importance of common-sense values. With a lineup of influential guests, the hosts will entertain you with the stories behind their music, while also addressing challenging topics affecting our communities and country.

Information

  • Creator
    Try That Podcast
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    116
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © © 2026 Try That in a Small Town Podcast
  • Show Website
    Try That in a Small Town Podcast

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