Mildly Amusing

Hosted by James Spragens
  • 5.0 (15)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

Where hearsay meets heresy. James Spragens hosts Mildly Amusing, a podcast of small-town stories, unfiltered conversations, and plenty of good fun.

Episodes

  1. 12/14/2025

    Episode 12: Back to the Land with Mike Thacker

    In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens talks with Mike Thacker, who shares how what began as a motorcycle journey across the country ultimately led him to Marion County, Kentucky. Mike reflects on the Back to the Land movement and the communities that formed here as that movement grew from the 1960s into the 1970s, including Living Love, Cornucopia, Earthward Bound, F-Span, and others. The conversation explores a time when people across the country were seeking a simpler, more self-sufficient way of life, building communes and collectives rooted in community, shared values, and a desire to live closer to the land and less tied to the outside world. It’s a thoughtful look back at a unique chapter of local and national history, perfect to listen to while driving, relaxing, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in. 🎶 This episode’s song is Let the Sunshine In by The 5th Dimension.

    1h 14m

  2. 12/07/2025

    Episode 11: On the Road and Back Home with Austin Brady

    In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens talks with Austin Brady, a familiar face who has recently stepped into local leadership. Before getting involved in the community, Austin spent seven years traveling the country as a truck driver. Hear about his life on the road, the places he’s seen, and the experiences that shaped him. Now serving on the Chamber of Commerce board, Austin shares why he’s passionate about bringing new energy to downtown Lebanon and helping it thrive again. It’s a grounded and engaging conversation, perfect to listen to while driving, cooking dinner, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in. 🎶 This episode’s music selection is “Take Me With U” by Prince and The Revolution.

    1h 4m

  3. 11/16/2025

    Episode 10: Rev. Steve Jester and the Presbyterian Roots of Lebanon

    In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens sits down with Rev. Steve Jester, the new pastor at Lebanon’s United Presbyterian Church. Rev. Jester shares how he once expected to go into law, then thought he might become an academic preacher before ultimately finding his calling as a community pastor. Hear about the oldest complete Bible ever discovered, how influential Thomas Merton has been in his spiritual life, and a story about Merton’s connection to Lebanon. Along the way, you’ll hear how Lebanon was founded by Presbyterians in the 1700s. It’s a thoughtful discussion, perfect to listen to while driving, taking a walk, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in. 🎶 This episode’s song is “Right or Wrong” by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.

    44 min

  4. 11/09/2025

    Episode 9: In My Life with Charles Lancaster Sr.

    People reacted, and we listened! Charles Lancaster Sr. is back for another episode of Mildly Amusing. In this conversation, we dive deep into Lebanon’s past, sharing stories of the Cecil Hotel, Jane Todd Inn and other local clubs, White’s Castle, the fair, downtown shops, snow days, and more. This episode is packed with memories and tales from years gone by. It’s cold outside, but you can warm up with a little nostalgia— perfect to listen to while driving, sipping a hot drink, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in. In My Life by The Beatles is this episode’s song, a perfect soundtrack for remembering the people, places, and moments that shaped Lebanon and our lives.

    52 min

  5. 10/26/2025

    Episode 8: On the Right Track with Maison Young

    In this episode, host James Spragens sits down with Maison Young, founder of the Lebanon Branch Preservation Trust. Their mission is to preserve the history of the Lebanon Branch of the L and N Railroad and nearby rail lines, keeping our rail heritage alive for the community to learn from. Maison, an engineer by day and lifelong train enthusiast, shares how his passion for railroads started at a young age. He walks us through the important role railways have played in the growth of communities and industries in central Kentucky, and why he hopes to restore the Lebanon Branch between New Hope and Lebanon. Climb aboard for a conversation filled with history, hometown pride, and a vision for the future of our rails.

    38 min

  6. 10/19/2025

    Episode 7: A Lifetime in Lebanon with Charles Lancaster, Sr.

    You won’t hear a more beautiful radio voice than this man. Everyone knows Charles Lancaster, Sr. Hear about his childhood growing up in Lebanon, his connection to Jim Beam, and his part in the development of local neighborhoods. He recounts business ventures and some of Lebanon’s biggest milestones. Join us on a journey through Lebanon’s past, all the way up to the present day. And have you ever heard of varmint suppers? You’ll want to listen to this episode! Music: “A Cottage For Sale” sung by the great Dinah Washington.   https://youtu.be/KMpXnDXvdIk?si=Vmcywpksr5x8A3Jw

    1h 17m

  7. 10/12/2025

    Episode 6: The Show Goes On – A Conversation with Robin Humphress and Lynn D. Farris

    In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens talks with Robin Humphress and Lynn D. Farris about all the exciting things happening at Kentucky Classic Arts. Lynn takes us back to the past days of community theatre, including when he had James as a student in Speech and Drama, while Robin shares what’s coming next for the organization. Learn about the new building that will be opening soon, upcoming events, and the creative energy that keeps our local arts scene thriving. There’s always something happening at our local arts center, and this conversation is your backstage pass.

    45 min

  8. 10/05/2025

    Episode 5: Standing Out in the Field—Farm Life with Angela and Cody Rakes

    In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens chats with Angela and Cody Rakes, the dynamic duo behind Loretto Motherhouse Farm and their own family farm. They share their backgrounds in agriculture, how they met, and how they found their way to running Loretto Motherhouse Farm. Along the way, you’ll hear about the tobacco program, bottle calves, and the important work they’re doing at Loretto Motherhouse to reforest land and manage invasive species. Plus, they’ve been named this year’s Outstanding Young Farm Family! 🎧 You don’t want to miss the story of when sheep moved to Myrtledene! Full of farm stories, laughs, and a peek into the hard work and heart that go into keeping our local farms thriving, this episode is a must listen.

    1h 6m

  9. 09/28/2025

    Episode 4: From Foodtown to Frankfort – A Conversation with Senator Jimmy Higdon

    In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens talks with State Senator Jimmy Higdon. Senator Higdon shares stories from his childhood, his years as a grocer, and how he made the leap into public office in 2001. He reflects on his move from the House to the Senate, the hurdles he has faced, and the legislation he has helped shape. He also talks about the barrel tax, a major issue in Marion and Nelson counties, home to half of the world’s bourbon. It’s a conversation full of history, insight, and a few laughs, perfect to listen to whenever you have a few minutes to tune in. 🎧 Hear how a small-town grocer became a long-serving leader for our community.

    1h 17m

  10. 09/21/2025

    Episode 3: Life, News, and a Few Rounds with Dennis George

    Host James Spragens sits down with Dennis George for a wide-ranging conversation that’s anything but mild.  From his high school days and start in journalism, to business ventures, a seat on city council, and even the story behind Marion County’s driving range and putting greens, Dennis shares insights on our community, the local paper, and the bigger picture of the newspaper industry.  Tune in for stories, laughs, and a look at the quality of life in Marion County from someone who’s seen it from all angles.

    1 hr

  11. 09/14/2025

    Episode 2: More Than Books – A Conversation with Jamie Collins

    In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens chats with Jamie Collins, director of the Marion County Public Library, who also wears many other hats in our community. Learn how Jamie came to Lebanon, KY, what exciting projects are coming up at the library, and hear her thoughtful insight on homelessness in the area. The conversation mixes meaningful discussion with some laughs, making it perfect to listen to while driving, walking the dog, folding laundry, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in. 🎧 Tune in and get to know one of Lebanon’s most versatile and community-minded leaders.

    50 min

  12. 09/06/2025

    Episode 1: Small Town, Big Punch – A Conversation with Mayor David Edelen

    In the very first episode of Mildly Amusing, James Spragens sits down with David Edelen, mayor of Bradfordsville, KY. They dive into his story of how he became mayor, the upcoming preservation award the city will be receiving, and the long process of bringing the old school back to life. Bradfordsville may be a town of just 300-something people, but it’s full of grit, community spirit, and the ability to punch far above its weight. From Old Mill Days to current projects, this conversation mixes local history, small-town pride, and a few good laughs along the way. Perfect to put on while you’re driving, mowing the yard, cooking dinner, or sneaking in some “me time.” 🎧 Tune in and see how one tiny town is making a big mark.

    45 min
  • 12 Episodes

5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Where hearsay meets heresy. James Spragens hosts Mildly Amusing, a podcast of small-town stories, unfiltered conversations, and plenty of good fun.

Information

  • Creator
    Hosted by James Spragens
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Mildly Amusing
  • Show Website
    Mildly Amusing