Try That in a Small Town Podcast

Try That Podcast

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

    Inside Ways & Means: Jason Smith on Trump, Voter Trust, and the Big Tax Cut :: Ep 113 Try That in a Small Town Podcast

    Chairman Jason Smith of the House Ways and Means Committee joins the Try That In A Small Town podcast from CMA Fest in Nashville. He breaks down what the powerful Ways and Means Committee actually does and how it touches every American’s life through taxes, trade, Social Security, Medicare, and more.   Jason opens up about his small-town Missouri roots, being a fourth-generation farmer, raising white buffalo, and why he still lives in the same rural community he represents. He explains how he took the Ways and Means Committee on the road to 32 states to listen to working families, small businesses, and farmers before writing what he calls the “Big Beautiful Bill” – the largest tax cut in U.S. history, including no tax on tips and overtime.   The conversation gets candid on Social Security’s future, election integrity and slow vote counts in places like California, and what happens when people lose trust in the system. Jason also shares behind-the-scenes stories of working closely with President Trump – from grilling him for three hours on every line of a 103-title tax bill in the Oval Office to the now-famous “red button” that just orders Diet Coke.   Along the way, they talk CMA Fest, Jason’s obsession with Reba, the Chiefs, Mahomes vs. Brady, cleaning up Washington, D.C., and why he believes the founding fathers’ values are really small-town values. Jason closes with a powerful story of a single mom whose $10,000 tax refund changed her life – and why that’s why he still fights for small towns and working families.   Timed highlights   2:00 Who is Chairman Jason Smith and what is the Ways and Means Committee?   5:13 CMA Fest, first concerts, and Jason’s country music roots   7:11 The Ozarks, one of America’s poorest districts, and small-town values   8:14 Reba superfan stories and being starstruck in DC   10:02 How the guys first met Jason at the South Dakota Governor’s Hunt   11:49 Nashville’s Bluebird Café, songwriting, and music in DC   13:06 Jason’s priorities: working families, small businesses, and farmers   14:19 White buffalo, donkeys named Bill, Hillary, Chelsea, and Hunter   15:29 Growing up poor in a trailer, farm life, and why that shapes his politics   19:15 Taking Ways and Means to 32 states and writing the “Big Beautiful Bill”   20:20 No tax on tips, no tax on overtime, and tax ideas from real Americans   22:06 Social Security history, FDR, and why both parties will keep it   23:35 Will Social Security ever go away? Jason’s answer and insolvency warning   26:49 How Jason became the youngest Ways and Means chair since before the Civil War   29:01 Inside the steering committee and what it takes to win the gavel   32:31 Life on call with President Trump and 5:30 a.m. texts   33:00 Three-hour Oval Office grilling on the “Big Beautiful Bill”   35:07 The Diet Coke button story and a handwritten note after Jason’s dad passed   37:34 Elections, slow vote counts in California, and voter trust   40:31 Why “every vote counts”: Jason’s one-vote victory story   43:03 Chiefs fandom, Mahomes vs. Brady, and elite QB mindset   48:19 How Trump cleaned up Washington, D.C. and made it feel safe again   51:39 What do you buy a president for Christmas and Trump’s generosity with guests   52:14 Jason presents a Congressional Record honoring “Try That In A Small Town”   54:57 Why the song struck a nerve in small-town America   56:24 The waitress, a $10,000 refund, and how tax policy changes real lives   59:19 Jason’s schedule, gym routine, and juggling DC with life back on the farm   1:01:21 Final thoughts on serving small towns and inviting listeners to DC   ______________________________________________________________________________________________ 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 3m

  2. Jun 8

    Chuck Wicks: Stealing Cinderella, Autism Dad, Wine Boss & Shiners Showrunner :: Ep 112 Try That in a Small Town Podcast

    Country artist and entertainer Chuck Wicks stops by the Try That In A Small Town podcast for a wild, honest, and surprisingly emotional ride. Chuck opens up about his journey from small-town farm kid and college baseball player to Nashville recording artist, radio host, entrepreneur, and autism dad. He shares the real story behind Stealing Cinderella, what it was like to be turned down by RCA the first time, and how he fought his way back to a record deal. Chuck also talks candidly about raising his nonverbal autistic son Tucker, early intervention, therapies, and the emotional roller coaster of getting an autism diagnosis at Vanderbilt. He explains how that journey has changed his priorities and why he and his wife Cassie (Jason Aldean’s sister) feel called to help other parents find resources. From there, the guys dive into: - Chuck’s relationship with Jason Aldean and what Jason is really like offstage   - How Melorosa Wine was born from Cassie’s Cuban family story   - Building Shiners, a wild Cirque-style, adults-only residency show in downtown Nashville   - The stress of chasing country radio, the power of authenticity, and artists taking shots at radio   - The infamous “DipShidiot” segment: road rage, gas station etiquette, youth sports parents, and more   Chuck also teases his upcoming movie on Great American Family Network and Amazon Prime, where he sings multiple songs and steps deeper into acting. If you love real Nashville stories, songwriting, small-town values, and unfiltered conversations about parenting, business, and faith, this episode delivers. Subscribe and share if you enjoy the show, and check out the member-only bonus segment for extra songs and stories. 3:06 Early mornings, syndicated radio, and sleep routines   5:05 Family trip out West: Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, elk and bison   7:48 Buffalo vs bison and bear talk   10:00 Hunting, backlash on social media, and eating what you kill   13:44 Health, wild game, and clean eating   14:17 Chuck on being 47, staying in shape, and raising his autistic son   15:12 Tucker’s autism journey: early signs, testing at Vanderbilt, and therapies   18:49 Nonverbal progress, speech breakthroughs, and hope   19:37 Faith, calling, and why parenting Tucker matters more than career   20:00 Connecting with other autism parents (Joe Don Rooney story)   22:19 Treatments, Lucavorin, red light therapy, and access to resources   24:50 “We wouldn’t trade him for anything” – embracing Tucker’s journey   26:17 Belt obsessions, airplane routines, and sensory quirks   26:28 Chuck’s early life: small-town farm kid and college baseball player   28:46 Discovering his voice in college, almost joining a pop group   31:45 First trip to Nashville, meeting RCA’s Jim Catino and singing a cappella   33:56 Development deal, not getting picked up, and starting over   36:18 Four years of grinding, learning to write, and finding his sound   42:40 Second chance: Clint Higham, Chesney camp, and full RCA deal   45:47 Writing Stealing Cinderella from a personal love story   50:00 Singing Stealing Cinderella at Coach Fulmer’s daughter’s wedding   51:37 Realizing the power of a song to move strangers   52:57 The stress of chasing radio hits and perspective with time   53:18 Other cuts and hits, including Jason Aldean’s Don’t You Wanna Stay (context: Aldean cut with Thrash)   56:03 How Chuck met Cassie, realized she was Jason Aldean’s sister, and dating into the Aldean family   1:00:13 The day after: Jason Aldean’s “blessing” phone call   1:02:30 Why Cassie’s three kids changed how Chuck approached relationships   1:03:58 Blended family life: ages of the kids and how fast time moves   1:05:25 What Jason Aldean is really like offstage: loyalty, mystery, and staying the same guy   1:06:29 Jason’s laugh, tight inner circle, and “it could all go away” mindset   1:08:01 Melorosa Wine: starting a wine company with Jason Aldean   1:09:00 Where to find Mellorosa (online, Kroger, ABC, Princess Cruises, Dubai)   1:09:33 The Cuban family story behind the name and “toast to freedom”   1:10:59 Shiners: Cirque-level, adults-only, comedy show in the historic Woolworth building   1:13:35 Writing Shiners during Covid and building a Nashville residency   1:16:10 The history and civil rights importance of the Woolworth building   1:20:20 What to expect at Shiners: moonshiners, aerial acts, crowd work, and “if you’re easily offended…”   1:22:02 DipShidiot segment: explaining the bit   1:22:33 Gas station chaos: Bucky’s pump hogs and parking-lot etiquette   1:25:29 Red velvet “Whitey” vs “Witty’s” custard mix-up   1:27:31 Red Clay Strays controversy: “radio is dead” comment and why radio still matters   1:30:39 Burning bridges you haven’t crossed yet and respecting country radio   1:35:05 Youth sports parents losing their minds vs just being a dad   1:38:01 CMT Awards “edit the chorus” story and learning to be grateful   1:41:03 Road rage story: 75 in a 70 and killing them with kindness   1:43:45 Locker room etiquette: naked close talkers and lifetime fitness stories   1:45:44 Manscaping, gym talk, and ridiculous visual bits   1:46:00 Chuck’s upcoming movie: Great American Family Network & Amazon Prime   1:47:04 Coloring hair, beard guard settings, and aging on camera   1:50:02 Closing: Melorosa Wine, Shiners, Chuck’s music, coffee collab, and podcast wrap   ______________________________________________________________________________________________ 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 52m

  3. Jun 1

    AI vs Songwriters, Trans Sports, Bear Hunt Backlash & Small-Town Honor :: Ep. 111 Try That in a Small Town

    From AI-written songs and a controversial commencement speech to trans athletes in girls’ sports, Cody Johnson’s bear hunt backlash, THC drinks, and a powerful small-town funeral story – the guys cover it all in this episode of the Try That In A Small Town Podcast.   They compare Scott Borchetta’s AI-heavy, “deal with it” address to Eric Church’s inspiring guitar analogy, talk about what AI and streaming are really doing to songwriters, roast a school district for a rained-out graduation, tell wild Bahamas golf and gambling stories, and debate THC drinks, hunting, and new “poly” reality TV.   They close with DipShidiot of the Week and a heartfelt look at how small towns still show up for their own.   00:52 Will Levis sex tape rumor and buying stories back from tabloids   02:53 Summer is here, kids out, and notable commencement speeches   03:16 Eric Church’s guitar-and-life commencement speech and why it worked   05:09 Scott Borchetta’s AI commencement: streaming, socials, and production   05:41 Booed by grads, “I know it, deal with it” and delivery vs message   07:12 Is brutal realism better than inspiration for graduates?   08:02 AI as tool vs replacement and why it hits different when you’re already rich   09:18 Comparing AI to Pro Tools, samples, and why fully AI songs lose listeners   11:09 Streaming’s impact on publishing, who actually makes money now   12:25 Big label buildings, tiny publishing floors, and small pub company struggles   13:54 Local high school graduations drenched in rain, no backup venue   14:45 Rain-or-shine policies, lightning concerns, and rushing the ceremony   15:43 What the soaked kids and grandparents went through that night   16:48 Superintendent named Dipshit of the Week for no backup plan   17:34 Road managers, “bad calls,” and transition to Bahamas trip   18:01 Bahamas: golf, fishing, tequila-fueled NHL-on-PS5 money games   19:57 High-dollar putter on the line: live call to Jake for Scotty Cameron details   20:58 Aldean wins the putter in overtime and pulls it from Jake’s bag at the airport   22:10 Telly’s golf swing, overconfidence, and getting mocked online   23:06 Baker’s Bay, Morgan Wallen, and stories that stay behind the paywall   24:36 Charles Barkley’s swing yips and getting a little better over time   25:03 Tax deadlines pushed back again in Tennessee and IRS jokes   25:38 Teasing next guest and Kayla’s upcoming shoulder surgery   26:16 Pain meds, “no days off,” and the idea of a post-op podcast   26:54 The blue bottle “herbal” drink heading toward felony status in Tennessee   27:35 How it became a pre-show hype drink and what it actually looks like   28:26 Why the state is banning it and links to opioid recovery concerns   29:10 If that’s illegal, what about THC drinks and Delta beverages?   29:54 THC drinks as golf “swing juice” and health vs alcohol debate   30:32 Listeners’ THC drink stories and whether it really helps putting   31:20 Prebiotic Pepsi “health” marketing and chemical overload   31:56 Predicting THC drinks at sporting events and stadiums   32:07 Super Bowl 2030 coming to Nashville and halftime show speculation   32:30 Taylor Swift, “real” country, and who should play the big stage   33:40 Titans rebuild, new coach, and does Will Levis really have it?   38:18 Pocket passers vs mobile QBs and what the guys want under center   39:40 Topic wheel spin: California track meet and trans athlete controversy   40:21 “Can’t believe this is still a thing” and fairness for girls in sports   40:58 Parents, boycotts, and refusing to line up against male competitors   41:51 Riley Gaines’ regret about competing and the mental toll   43:08 Zero tolerance stance vs waiting for laws and elections to catch up   44:02 New show “This Is Poly” and modern polyamorous families on TV   45:25 Jealousy, fights, and why some refuse to watch these reality shows   47:34 Kayla’s comedy, being “yourself” on mic, and overthinking funny   49:04 Musicianship, performance anxiety, and freedom when you stop monitoring   50:34 Recording vocals without headphones and trusting feel   51:12 Delta THC drinks: 20 mg misfire and why 5 mg is smarter   52:02 Gummy war stories, Doritos, and not being natural stoners   53:04 On-stage looks vs reality: who seems like the “stoner” in the band   54:03 Dip S****y of the Week: Cody Johnson’s Alaskan bear hunt haters   54:31 Hunting culture vs online outrage and meat-eating hypocrisy   55:27 “Harvested” vs “killed” and calling hunting what it is   56:02 Liberal sensitivities, offense at everything, and language games   57:07 Public etiquette dipshit: people who just stop in the middle of walkways   58:30 Airport moving walkways: “it’s not a ride, keep walking”   59:20 Backpack chaos on airplanes and basic travel courtesy   1:00:33 Listener callout: submit your Dip S****y of the Week in the comments   1:01:02 Small-town funeral: honoring a firefighter, veteran, and community pillar   1:01:45 Fire trucks, sirens, last ride, American Legion, and folded flag moment   1:02:20 Food, casseroles, and how small towns show up for grieving families   1:03:22 Why small towns may be what keeps the country united   1:04:36 Going home to a 400-person town and Legion dinners after funerals   1:05:09 How that support gives the family peace and helps them move on   1:05:27 Peacemaker Coffee promo: TTIAST blends, sucker punch dark roast, travel mugs   1:05:58 CTAs: download, comment, send small-town stories and dipshidiots of the week     ______________________________________________________________________________________________ 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 8m

  4. May 25

    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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
See All (119)

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
    119
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © © 2026 Try That in a Small Town Podcast
  • Show Website
    Try That in a Small Town Podcast

You Might Also Like