Your Happy Place Podcast

Rebecca George
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In the heart of the Smoky Mountains sits a theme park unlike any other in the world. Dollywood isn’t just a collection of award-winning roller coasters and attractions, it’s a place people return to year after year and somehow never grow tired of its charm. Hosted by a lifelong East Tennessean author and veteran podcaster, Rebeca George, Your Happy Place explores what makes Dollywood special: the stories behind the shows, the artists and performers who call the park their stage, the food and festivals that mark the seasons, and the hidden details that reward the devoted.

Episodes

  1. Oct 19

    S1E6 - Heidi Parton LIVE from Heartsong Lodge at Dollywood

    In this episode of Your Happy Place Podcast, host Rebecca George interviews Heidi Parton who shares the heartfelt story behind her album 'Reflections,' including collaborations with friends and family, the creative process, and her journey of honoring her family's musical legacy. Discover the inspiring moments and the love poured into this special project. Keywords: Heidi Parton, Reflections album, Dollywood, musical legacy, songwriting, family, Nashville, Nashville music, Dolly Parton, country music, album release Topics: Heidi Parton's musical journey The making of the 'Reflections' album Collaborations with family and friends Honoring Randy Parton's legacy The creative process behind the album The significance of nostalgia and newness The role of Dollywood in Heidi’s career The songwriting stories and inspirations The impact of family and community in music Takeaways: Heidi Parton’s album 'Reflections' is a heartfelt blend of nostalgia and new music. Collaborations with friends and family played a crucial role in the album's creation. The album honors Heidi’s family legacy, especially her father Randy Parton. The process involved quick studio work, emphasizing the importance of talented collaborators. Heidi’s journey reflects the importance of perseverance and staying true to her roots. The album's songs tell stories that connect past and present, creating a timeless feel. The project was a labor of love that celebrated community, legacy, and artistry. Heidi encourages artists to embrace their unique voice and legacy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Heidi Parton and the 'Reflections' Album 04:24 The Creative Process and Collaborations 08:33 Themes of Nostalgia and Newness 12:37 Revisiting Randy Parton’s Unheard Songs 17:37 The Making of 'Kiss of Red' 23:26 The Impact of Studio Work and Talented Musicians 36:24 Jimmy’s Role in the Album 39:12 The Song 'The Gift' and Its Significance 44:18 Future Projects and Connecting with Fans Links: Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking  Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching  Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives  Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4  Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f  Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6  Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67  Books: You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3k Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpM Before Dawn: Knowing God’s Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv  Jasper Meets Sparkle the Firefly: https://www.thejasperbooks.com  Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: HWIMODNQAS43DWZ4

  2. Oct 12

    S1E5 - Nightflight Expedition (Dollywood's NEWEST Attraction)

    In this episode of Your Happy Place podcast, host Rebecca George shares her experience at Dollywood's Night Flight Expedition media day, exploring the ride's story, design, and behind-the-scenes insights from Dollywood Parks & Resorts President, Eugene Naughton. Discover what makes this new attraction a family-friendly adventure and how it connects to Dollywood's rich storytelling tradition. Keywords: Dollywood, Night Flight Expedition, theme park rides, family attractions, theme park storytelling, Dollywood media day, new ride, Smoky Mountains, bioluminescence, theme park innovation Topics: Night Flight Expedition ride experience Storytelling and theme of the ride Design and engineering challenges Connection to Smoky Mountains and bioluminescence Media day and first impressions Family-friendly aspects and seasonal operation Future plans for Dollywood attractions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dollywood's Night Flight Expedition 00:39 Rebecca's Media Day Experience and First Ride 01:04 Merchandise and Park Exploration Before the Ride 01:32 Interview with Eugene Naughton about Ride Development 01:52 Storytelling and Theming of Night Flight Expedition 02:15 Engineering Challenges and Construction Insights 02:45 Ride Experience Details and Key Features 03:13 Family and Seasonal Appeal of the Ride 03:18 Future Plans and Park Expansion 03:39 Closing Remarks and Next Steps for Visitors Links: Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking  Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching  Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives  Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4  Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f  Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6  Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67  Books: You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3k Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpM Before Dawn: Knowing God’s Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv  Jasper Meets Sparkle the Firefly: https://www.thejasperbooks.com  Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: HWIMODNQAS43DWZ4

  3. Oct 5

    S1E4 - Hannah Harper at Dollywood's 2026 Harvest Fest

    In this episode of Your Happy Place Podcast, 2026 American Idol winner Hannah Harper shares her inspiring journey from childhood bluegrass gospel roots to American Idol, emphasizing faithfulness, reliance on the Lord, and balancing motherhood with a music career. Discover how her story and faith have shaped her musical path and ministry. And make sure to stop by and hear her perform during Harvest Fest at Dollywood! Keywords: Hannah Harper, American Idol, faith, music ministry, bluegrass gospel, motherhood, perseverance, faithfulness, Harvest Fest, Dollywood  Topics: Hannah's childhood and bluegrass gospel roots The moment her family decided to pursue music full-time Her experience with postpartum depression and songwriting The significance of faith and reliance on God in her journey Balancing motherhood and a music career in a secular genre Her approach to sharing the gospel through music in secular venues The impact of her American Idol audition and story Lessons on faithfulness and trusting God's timing Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Hannah Harper's background 01:52 Growing up in bluegrass gospel and family ministry 06:49 The family's decision to pursue full-time music 12:06 Hannah's experience with postpartum depression and songwriting 17:00 The story behind the 'String Cheese' audition song 20:01 Lessons on faithfulness and trusting God's timing 22:01 Balancing motherhood, family, and a music career 23:51 What makes Hannah radiant about Jesus 25:05 Connecting with Hannah Harper and her music Links: Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking  Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching  Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives  Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4  Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f  Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6  Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67  Books: You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3k Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpM Before Dawn: Knowing God’s Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv  Jasper Meets Sparkle the Firefly: https://www.thejasperbooks.com  Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: HWIMODNQAS43DWZ4

  4. Sep 28

    S1E3 - Dollywood Harvest Fest Chat with President Eugene Naughton

    In this episode of Your Happy Place Podcast, Eugene Naughton, President of Dollywood Parks and Resorts, shares insights about the upcoming Harvest Fest, the importance of storytelling through entertainment, and plans for the park's future. Discover what makes Dollywood a unique family destination and how they create memorable experiences. Keywords: Dollywood, Harvest Fest, theme park, family memories, entertainment, future plans, Tennessee, Dollywood events, theme park management Topics: Harvest Fest highlights and entertainment The importance of storytelling and family experiences Park expansion plans and future visions Special events like Boo Bash and early ride times Dollywood's commitment to guest experience and community Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dollywood and the episode's focus 02:36 Eugene Naughton discusses the richness of Dollywood's festival calendar 04:34 Highlights of Harvest Fest and featured performers 07:52 Nighttime experiences and new events like Boo Bash 11:13 Park operations, early ride times, and crowd management 14:42 The importance of creating family memories at Dollywood 16:37 Future visions for Dollywood and new resort concepts 20:36 Eugene's personal favorite spots and closing thoughts Links: Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking  Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching  Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives  Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4  Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f  Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6  Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67  Books: You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3k Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpM Before Dawn: Knowing God’s Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv  Jasper Meets Sparkle the Firefly: https://www.thejasperbooks.com  Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: HWIMODNQAS43DWZ4

  5. Sep 21

    S1E2 - Get to Know Eugene Naughton (Dollywood Parks and Resorts President)

    In this episode of Your Happy Place, we sit down with Eugene Naughton, president of Dollywood Parks and Resorts, to explore the exciting developments at Dollywood in 2026, including the highly anticipated Nightflight Expedition attraction, and the park's long-term vision. Eugene shares insights into the park's evolution, storytelling, and how they balance tradition with innovation. Keywords: Dollywood, Night Flight, theme park, amusement park, Dollywood 2026, park development, family experience, theme park innovation, Smoky Mountains, Dollywood history Topics: Dollywood's upcoming attractions for 2026 The story behind Night Flight and bioluminescence theme Balancing tradition with innovation in theme park development Long-term planning and expansion strategies for Dollywood The importance of storytelling and emotional connection in theme parks Operational challenges and solutions in park management The role of community and cultural storytelling in park design Future plans for park expansion and new attractions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Eugene Naughton and Dollywood's Vision 04:10 The Significance of Night Flight and Park Expansion 12:02 The History and Partnership Behind Dollywood 13:09 Building Spaces for All Cultures and Generations 23:59 The Challenges and Triumphs of Developing Night Flight 28:18 The Immersive Experience of Night Flight and Media Integration 31:04 The Inspiration from Smoky Mountains and Bioluminescence 34:12 Personal Stories and Creative Inspiration Behind Night Flight 38:48 Future Plans and Long-Term Vision for Dollywood Links: Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking  Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching  Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives  Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4  Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f  Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6  Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67  Books: You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3k Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpM Before Dawn: Knowing God’s Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv  Jasper Meets Sparkle the Firefly: https://www.thejasperbooks.com  Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: HWIMODNQAS43DWZ4

  6. Sep 12

    S1E1 - Introduction: Dollywood is My Happy Place

    Welcome to Your Happy Place Podcast! Rebecca George shares her deep love for Dollywood, exploring its significance, recent memorials for Dolly Parton, and upcoming attractions. She walks through the park, highlighting fall decor, favorite rides, and plans for the podcast series, offering a heartfelt tribute and many insider tips. Keywords: Dollywood, Dolly Parton, theme park, fall decor, Wildwood Grove, Night Flight Expedition, Smoky Mountain Christmas, park tour, East Tennessee, family travel Topics: Dolly Parton's memorial at Dollywood Seasonal decor and attractions at Dollywood Upcoming ride Night Flight Expedition Park highlights and favorite rides Plans for the Your Happy Place podcast series Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Your Happy Place Podcast 01:04 Rebecca's Love for Dollywood 02:25 Memorials for Dolly Parton at Dollywood 05:23 Fall Decor and Seasonal Changes 07:08 The Inspiration Behind the Podcast 11:12 Dollywood's Christmas and Fall Festivities 17:37 The Dollywood Express and Park Layout 23:46 Wildwood Grove and New Rides 29:45 Night Flight Expedition and Ride Details 32:07 Upcoming Episodes and Guest Interviews Links: Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking  Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching  Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives  Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4  Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f  Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6  Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67  Books: You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3k Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpM Before Dawn: Knowing God’s Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv  Jasper Meets Sparkle the Firefly: https://www.thejasperbooks.com

  • 6 Episodes

About

In the heart of the Smoky Mountains sits a theme park unlike any other in the world. Dollywood isn’t just a collection of award-winning roller coasters and attractions, it’s a place people return to year after year and somehow never grow tired of its charm. Hosted by a lifelong East Tennessean author and veteran podcaster, Rebeca George, Your Happy Place explores what makes Dollywood special: the stories behind the shows, the artists and performers who call the park their stage, the food and festivals that mark the seasons, and the hidden details that reward the devoted.

Information

  • Creator
    Rebecca George
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Rebecca George
  • Show Website
    Your Happy Place Podcast