Lake Life With Molley And Chad Podcast Molley and Chad Ricketts

Episode 32: Molley and Chad close out Season 3 with their friend Chad Hopper.  As the weather changes and the Fall colors burst, State Dock on Lake Cumberland hosts a Poker Run.  It’s the last blow out event of the season.  Lake Life with Molley and Chad is a sponsor of the 2023 Poker Run.
Welcome to the Poker Run
Chad explains that the Lake Cumberland Poker Run is an event involving some really powerful boats on the lake.  It’s usually held over a weekend.  Molley and Chad made sure to publicize the podcast merch and all the swag from t-shirts, footballs and more at this year’s event.
This year, they decided to have fun at the dock party, rather than heading out on the water.  They had a great time with a big group of friends.  In keeping with the lake atmosphere, some of the partygoers were wearing fishnet bathing suits and a few were sporting thongs.  Chad and Molley talked about how much confidence it would take to wear one of those bathing suits.  Yep, not much more to say about that.
Molley mentions this year’s event included 150 boats.  Both Cigarette, Formula and Sunsation were sponsors.  There were a few MTIs in the poker run.  It’s worth going down just to watch some awesome boats.  This year, the tickets were only $50 for the weekend.  Chad recommends you start planning for the 2024 event.  It’s going to be a great time!
Dock vs. Water – Which is Better?
Molley asks if they have a vote for which experience they liked the best.  They’ve been out on the water in years past.  But this year was the full dock experience.  Chad comments about how much fun the dance floor at the dock was, thanks to a couple of great DJs (DJ Al and DJ Xtina).
Chad Hopper points out that it’s a long day, so why not consider doing both?  There’s time to get in some boating.  He really enjoys the boats and in reality, the entire event is a party.
Another one of their friends likes to work on motors.  The boats in this poker run had some great examples of pure muscle on the water.
One of the things Molley like is that both Thunder Run and the Poker Run bring some great boats to Lake Cumberland.  They’re both fast and beautiful.  If you come down for the week, you’ll be able to watch some of them without the crowd.  People love to talk about their boats and it’s a great way to expand the overall experience.  Molley, Chad and Chad take a little detour in the conversation to talk about some of the things they’ve learned and seen.
The Foam Football and Stickers Story
Molley describes the fun they had with the Lake Life with Molley and Chad foam footballs they brought to the Poker Run.  They handed them out and interacted with people waiting in line at the restaurant.  People absolutely loved them, along with some of the stickers they had.  Admittedly, the stickers were hit and miss, depending upon who was handing them out.
The Food Trucks Crushed It
There was a Mexican food truck and a barbecue truck that showed up with some terrific food.  Both are based in Russell Springs, Kentucky.  They added some variety to the State Dock restaurant (The Wheelhouse), which is always packed. 
Which Boat would Chad Hopper Buy?
Molley asks Hopper which one of the Poker Run boats he’d buy, if money were no object.  He really likes those Cigarette boats.  Chad is partial to the Formula boats.  Molley admits she’s still a Sunsation and MTI fan. 
Future Plans
Molley and Chad explain that they’ll have to miss the 2024 Poker Run because their daughter is getting married!  It’ll be the first one they’ve missed in about 10 years.  It’ll probably be worth it.
For the 2025 Poker Run, Molley thinks they should anchor a houseboat near the DJ booth on the dock.  The Chads talk about the prep work they’d do to get it ready for the weekend. 
Molley points out that the Jamestown water taxi operates until 1:00am to help all of you partygoers. 
Future Topics
Is there a topic o

Episode 31: Molley and Chad return to the Dock Crawl at State Dock Marina on Lake Cumberland, for the second year in a row.  This episode will feature interviews and comments from friends and new friends who came out to enjoy a wonderful tradition.
In a previous episode, you met Donzi Dale and Sandy.  They have a houseboat on the lake and invited Molley and Chad to use their boat as a home base during the event.  A special shout out to Mandy and Travis to introducing them to the Dock Crawl in 2022.  Their friend Kelly Smith was the interviewer during the 2023 event.  She did a terrific job.
Recon Duty with Mr. Barry
Truth be told, Barry Sinclair is from a different row on the dock (Row 200), but was doing some recon to see how things were shaping up and what the competition looked like this year.  Kelly, Molley and Chad welcomed him to the microphone to get his take on the event.
Barry started coming down to State Dock on Lake Cumberland in 1977.  They started by staying in the cottages and then bought a houseboat about 22 years ago.  They originally kept it at Jamestown, but decided to move to State Dock roughly 11 years ago.  He drives down from Cincinnati, OH every weekend.
In addition to the houseboat, he has a dual console runabout he keeps in a slip.  Barry’s son also has a boat in a nearby slip.  Barry’s youngest son was 2 weeks old when he had his first lake experience.  It’s safe to say he grew up on the water.  Molley mentions both of their children grew up around the water.  Now they’re in the 20s. 
Barry used to be into watersports, but as he’s gotten older is more about boatin’ and floatin’.  That phrase might just make it onto a t-shirt.  Be sure to check out the Ship Store on the Lake Life website.  He has a new grandson who’s 5 and half months old.  The kiddo has already been floatin’ on the water.
They talk about how important getting down to the lake is for the family.  If their family plans any weddings during the summer, Barry will usually send a gift and maybe take them out some other time.  We’ve spoken often about how Lake Life is such a fun mindset and once you begin, other priorities tend to get reshuffled.  Barry and his family have spent many Thanksgivings and holidays on the lake.  It’s truly a special place.
Before they wrap up with Barry, they ask about his boats.  He owns a dual console Scout and his Stardust houseboat.  His son has a center console Robalo.  Barry is getting ready to go down to the Ft. Lauderdale boat show.  The group ends with a brief discussion of lake homes vs. houseboats. 
Molley and Chad mention they’re getting ready for a 10-day catamaran trip with some friends in the British Virgin Islands.  Bob comments he’s be fortunate to have travelled all over the world, but Lake Cumberland is one of his favorite places.
What Does Chad Like Best about the Dock Crawl?
For Chad, it’s the entire event.  There’s so much going on and people to meet. 
Brody, Clifford and Melody Stop by for a Chat
Brody is in the 500 row, while Clifford and Melody are in the 300 row at the State Dock.  Brody’s also checking on the competition.  Melody mentions they have a cruiser.  Now, with the grandchildren, the make it down to the lake about every 3rd weekend.  Brody has a middle console boat, a houseboat and an F4. 
Clifford’s been coming down to the lake for 12-15 years.  Molley asks what they each like about coming down to the lake.  Brody likes taking the boat out on the water.  He got his Kentucky boating license about a month ago. 
Melody explains they originally started with runabouts.  Life happened and it made getting a slip seem much more convenient.  Besides, Clifford doesn’t what a pool, so the lake does just fine.  Both Molley and Chad and Melody and Clifford talk about experiences like building a home and putting down flooring, which can seriously test the bonds of a marriage. 
What Advice They

Episode 30: Molley and Chad interview Missy Johnson, owner of Lake Girl Apparel.  We’re going to talk about her brand and how it was a perfect fit, given Missy’s love for the water.  Hey, if you’re going to enjoy the Lake Life, you should look good while you’re doing it, right?  Be sure to listen to the end of the episode for a special offer!
How Did Lake Girl Get Started?
Missy lives in Minnesota (“the land of 10,000 lakes).  Lake Girl started in 2002, in Detroit Lakes, MN.  The original founder, Peggy, founded the store and focused more on a wholesale business model.  About 5 years ago, another company, LakeShirts purchased the company and took the Lake Girl brand nationwide. 
Molley comments that Lake Girl clothes are available in the ship store at the State Dock Marina on Lake Cumberland, where she and Chad boat.  She loves the quality and softness of the shirts and sweatshirts.  Missy mentions how these products last forever, but people keep buying them because of the quality.
How Did Missy Get Involved in the Lake Life?
Missy begins my letting listeners know that there’s a lake everywhere you turn in Minnesota.  The state’s nickname is, “The Land of 10,000 Lakes.”  The Lake Life lifestyle is embraced throughout both the summer and the winter.  During the warm months, people go boating and swimming.  During the cold months, people are right back out there, ice fishing and ice skating. 
Missy admits she actually lives on a river, but that’s perfect because Lake Girl also has a River Girl collection.  She tells a quick story about recently taking a friend kayaking on the river.  The experience helped her friend to get over her fear of the water and now, she’s a River Girl.  It’s part of the power a great experience on the water and the surrounding nature has to change a person’s life.  Molley agrees.  As soon as she and Chad get back on the lake, those deep breaths of fresh air melt away the stress and helps them to rebalance their busy lives.
Chad talks about how this podcast got its start.  They noticed there weren’t a lot of podcasts focusing on lake boating, which is their passion.  It’s something for people who enjoy being out on the water having fun.  There’s a huge community out there and Lake Life with Molley and Chad is providing a way for people to connect, learn and just enjoy life in general.  It’s a big family.
Molley adds that Chad tries to work in a boat ramp story on as many episodes as possible.  That prompts Missy to admit that they spend time sitting back watching people try to put in or take out their boats, all the time.  If you’d like to hear some funny stories, check out the following episodes:  Don’t Be That Guy!, Ramp Etiquette and Trailer Safety and Learn from Our Mistakes.
Has Missy Always Been a River Girl?
Molley asks Missy about this, noting that it gets really cold, really fast in Minnesota.  Missy agrees, but then describes the surreal experience of having an actual bonfire on the lake.  It’s a wonderful advantage to having such cold weather. 
Another great reason Missy enjoys the colder weather is because it brings the opportunity to simply stand there and breath in that cold, fresh air while on or around the water.  There’s nothing like it. 
Missy’s also looking forward to bundling up and paddling down the river to look at all of the autumn foliage and the wonderful colors.  It’s actually going to be here first time and she’s taking the friend she mentioned earlier.  They can’t wait!
Missy grew up near the Mississippi river and it was always a place she loved because it allowed her to cleanse her mind.  Water has always been part of her life.  Ironically, it’s how she returns to feeling “grounded.”
There’s a funny story about how Missy and her boyfriend got to enjoy a waterpark with a lazy river.  After that, she told him she wanted him to build one for her.  A week or so later, t

Episode 29: Molley and Chad interview Aqua Supply Co. owners Courtney and Andrew in today’s episode.  Aqua sells marine products and apparel for everyone who loves boating, beaches and the outdoors.  The four of them originally met at the Dock Crawl in 2022.  We’ll catch up on the new business and have a few laughs along the way. 
So, How’s Business?
Andrew is happy to say they sold out of all of the merchandise at the Cincinnati Boat Show.  AquaClean is their first brand.  It’s detailing products to be use on boats, as well as cars and RVs.  Andrew has done detailing for over 10 years.  He’s used many of the available products.  They spent about 2 years of testing to find the right products for their brand.
Molley and Courtney talk about everyone seems to have a job(s) when a boat’s involved.  Andrew is a serious cleaner.  Courtney takes care of getting things ready for the outing. 
The AquaClean Product Line
Courtney gives an overview of the products they offer.  She begins with WIPEDOWN, which is their flagship product.  It’s a waterless wash, that prevents water spots and streaks on your boat after you’re done for the day.
Andrew talks about their PROTECT product that gives a stronger barrier of protection.  They have a variety of all-purpose cleaners and waxes.  There’s plenty of new products in the pipeline, as well.
Molley asks about a product to get hair dye out of your seats.  That can be a really challenge.  Andrew comment that many of the products on the market can actually break down the material.  There’s no all-in-one product solution.
Properly Caring for Your Boat  
Molley discusses how so many people forget, or skip, wiping down their boats.  It’s so important and a lot of new boat owners may not realize it.  Over time, your boat will develop a waterline, because you didn’t take the time to properly care for your boat, by just wiping it down.
Molley focuses particularly on caring for the seats.  Taking a little time to clean them and reapply protectant can ensure they not only look great, but they hold up over the years.  You can keep the seats from splitting and reduce damage to the threads, with a little effort. 
The group briefly discusses a new type of material that is supposed to resist feeling hot to the touch and actually resists staining from sun lotion and other substances. 
Where Can People Meet Courtney and Andrew?
They’re thinking about the Kuttawa Cannonball Run.  They’re also planning to be at the Thunder Run on Lake Cumberland.  The plan is to have a display and maybe a special surprise. 
Chad points out that today’s episode is being recorded at Lake Cumberland’s State Dock, on Courtney and Andrew’s houseboat.  If you hear some noise in the background, it’s all part of Lake Life.
What Cleaning Mistakes Do People Make?
Molley asks about mistakes people often make when cleaning their boats.  Andrew discusses how many people go wrong with the interiors of their boats.  Bleach can be a problem.  However, people done always understand that Magic Erasers have bleach in them.  He explains that the damage isn’t immediately noticeable, but the following year, it’s unmistakable. 
General upkeep can be a challenge.  Failing to wash down the boat, wiping it down and applying protectant is extremely common.  It’s all about consistency when it comes to properly caring for your boat.
The group talks about some of the problems you can encounter if you don’t have a good routine, at the end of the day.  They’ve all made mistakes.  Those are the ones you’ll probably avoid next time.  Andrew recommends having a marine radio.  It’ll be worth the investment if you need to use it.
Chad asks Courtney for a quick update on her mother, Tina.  Tina was a star on one of the Dock Crawl episodes, last year.  Tina’s doing okay and getting ready to spend time at their condo in Florida.  It looks like Courtney

Episode 28:  It’s time for another episode of Lake Life with Molley and Chad! In today’s episode, we’re joined by our friends Fran, Rob and Adam to talk about Lake Cumberland, in Kentucky.  This is a continuation of our tour of lakes across Kentucky and Tennessee.  It's time for a deep dive into what makes this lake so special.
Please note:  This conversation includes a few, random curse words.  We apologize if you find them offensive.  Additionally, we thought we'd let any parents with young kids know, before you begin playing the episode.
Lake Cumberland Is a Special Place
Molley and Chad are recording this episode at Grider Hill Marina.  Chad talks about why Lake Cumberland is her favorite place to go.  It’s one of the prettiest lakes in Kentucky.  Although Molley and Adam agree that Dale Hollow is a close second. 
Adam’s been coming on the lake since 1985.  His buddy’s parents had been coming to Grider Hill, since the early 1970s.  Adam bought a 1963 Marionette that took a lot of work to get running.  He talks about his experiences and why he really likes this lake.  He and his friends would come to the lake and ski all day and grill steaks in the evenings. 
Fran and Rob have been coming to Lake Cumberland for the past 3 seasons.  They rode around with Adam a lot.  At the time, Fran and Rob had a pontoon.  They eventually purchased a 1986 Wellcraft St. Tropez, which was much better to sleep on compared to the pontoon.
Chad asks Fran and Rob about their favorite areas on the lake.  They like 76 Falls.  It’s close to Grider Hill Marina.  That’s a plus for them because their Wellcraft doesn’t have the power of other boats on the lake.  Rob comments about how much he enjoys the opportunity to go to sleep and wake up on the water.  It’s worth the 3-hour drive.
For Adam, even though it’s a 5-6 hour drive to get to the lake, the serenity and ability to unwind is worth it.  However, the duration depends upon how many Walmarts or Dollar Generals he hits on the way. 
Chad comments that it’s a 2-hour drive, unless Molley’s driving.
Lake Cumberland Marinas and Campgrounds
While this might not capture all of them, here’s a good list of marinas:
  Alligator 1
Alligator 2 (also known as Wolf Creek Marina )
Conley Bottom
Lee’s Ford
·      State Dock
·      Burnside
·      Somerset
·      Rowena
·      Grider Hill
There are only 3 recognized campgrounds on Lake Cumberland:
·      Pulaski County Park
·      Lake Cumberland State Park
·      Conley Bottom Campground
Favorite Activities at the Lake
Adam talks about how much he loves to cook.  He always fixes nice meals.  One of his favorite recipes is Sausage Jalapeño Bombs, which he cooks right there on his boat.  The smell usually attracts other boaters for a quick sample.  Being able to share food and meals with friends is all part of what makes this so special for Adam.
Molley talks about how Grider Hill Marina, build in the early 1950s, was one of the last family-owned docks on Lake Cumberland.  It was bought out a few years ago by a company called Safe Harbor. 
There’s a lot to do in and around the lake area.  One of Adam’s favorite activities is to boat over to Cemetery Point at sunset.  There are many places people love to visit and explore on Lake Cumberland.  Having the chance to watch the sunset, while you’re on the water is a terrific experience.
What Other Lakes Have You Visited?
Fran has visited Dale Hollow.  She and Rob have also been to Barren River Lake and Rough River Lake.  She’s not a fan of boating on the river.  Adam comments you’re either a river rat or a bathtub boater (lake boater). 
It’s Not All Fun and Games
Adam and Rob talk about the time their engine stalled in some pretty deep water.  They were half-way back to their destination, and pretty far from shore.  The question was whether they sh

Episode 27:  Welcome to Lake Life with Molley and Chad! In today’s episode, we’re joined by a group of friends to talk about Rough River Lake in Kentucky.  Our friends are Chuck, Dawn, Spence and Lisa.  This is a continuation of our tour of lakes across Kentucky and Tennessee.  Let’s jump in, so to speak.
Rough River Lake Offers Diverse Activities
Rough River Lake is a 65-foot deep reservoir located in Breckenridge, Hardin and Grayson counties, in Kentucky.  It offers a wised range of activities for visitors to enjoy.  It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The lake has 220 miles of shoreline, providing ample space for visitors to explore and enjoy the beautiful scenery.  Interestingly, it’s actually linked to Green River.  Whether it’s swimming, boating or simply relaxing on the shore, there are plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy the water.
Fishing is a popular activity at Rough River Lake.  The lake is known for its diverse fish population, including crappie, bass, hybrid bass and bluegill.  Bass tournaments are held regularly, attracting fishermen from all over.  Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, Rough River Lake offers a great fishing experience.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Rough River Lake offers opportunities for leisurely boat rides or picnics along the shoreline.  The calm waters in the no wake area provide a peaceful and serene environment, perfect for enjoying a day on the lake.
They discuss the historical significance of Rough River Lake.  Chuck and Spence share a funny story about their family’s connection to the lake, dating back to the 1960s when their grandfather and great uncle built a cabin there.  The original cabin still stands today, serving as a gathering place for family and friends. 
The lake has several boat ramps, making it easy for visitors to launch their boats and explore the lake.  The state dock is a popular spot, providing convenient access to the water.  There are also neighborhood boat ramps available for those who live in the area.
Family Bonding at the Lake
One aspect of Rough River Lake that stands out is its ability to foster family bonding.  The podcast.  The guys talk about their childhood experiences at the lake, where they would spend their days water skiing and fishing.  They recall the excitement of progressing from wearing life jackets to being able to wear ski belts, which was a big privilege.  These activities not only provided fun and entertainment bus also taught everyone important life skills such as swimming and water safety.
There’s a mention the importance of family time at the lake.  They describe how the original cabin served as a gathering place for extended family, including grandparents, aunts, uncles and siblings. 
Chad talks about the lack of phone reception in certain areas, which allows for uninterrupted conversations and connections with their children.  They describe how being in a secluded cover creates a space for meaningful conversations that may not have happened otherwise.  This aspect of the lake is seen as both a blessing and a curse, as it can lead to surprising and sometimes humorous interactions.
Another highlight of family bonding at the lake is the annual family reunion.  Dawn mentions how they turned their regular golf weekends into a larger family gathering at the lake.  This event brings together cousins and extended family members for a weekend of fun activities.  They usually include cookouts, dance parties and euchre tournaments.  Lisa agrees how much they really enjoy these gatherings and the sense of unity they bring.
Lisa shares personal stories about their families and their experiences at the lake.  They talk about watching their children grow up at the lake and the memories they have created together.  They talk about an old cabin nicknamed the “OC” and how they wanted their children to experience t