The County Line

Lee C. Smith
  • 4.9 (81)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The county line is a place traditionally known for being vague, ambiguous, and frequently visited by people who are intrigued by the prospect of viewing life from an unconventional perspective. Episodes include conversations led by host, Lee Carl, and a wide ranging cast of characters. Come join us for genuine hospitality and entertainment on the outskirts of life!

  1. 08/04/2025

    I Thought You Should Know

    Why Is It Unanimous?  During the 2025 Mississippi legislative session, the legislature passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 531. SCR531 recognizes the creation of the Mississippi-Israel Joint Legislative Caucus with the specifically stated goal of strengthening political, economic, and cultural bonds between the state of Mississippi and the nation of Israel.  SCR531 was swiftly and unanimously ushered through both chambers with bipartisan support early in the 2025 legislative session. The Senate voted in favor by a count of 39-0 and the House voted in favor 113-0. Very few pieces of legislation pass with unanimous, bipartisan support.  SCR531 was passed on February 25, 2025.  It had become blatantly obvious American military aid was being used by Israeli forces to slaughter women and children in Gaza.  Hamas is responsible for killing at least 1,200 Israelis during the attack on October 7, 2023. In response, the state of Israel has killed at least 50,000 people in Gaza. Among those killed approximately 60% have been Palestinian women and children.  Even still, forging an alliance with Israel took priority over addressing the most pressing needs of Mississippians in the 2025 legislative session.  We have major socioeconomic problems that will take generations to address in Mississippi.  Of the 50 poorest counties in America, 10 are in Mississippi. Mississippi has the second highest statewide poverty rate in the nation. Jackson has the highest per capita homicide rate. Mississippi depends on federal tax dollars more so than any other state in the Union. 42% of Mississippi’s $31 billion budget stems from federal sources. 65% of these federal funds are earmarked for social welfare purposes.  These statistical nightmares indicate Mississippi should focus on strengthening herself from within.  We must implement statewide school consolidation reform and adopt universal school choice. We should fully eliminate the income tax in a more aggressive manner. We should make a concerted effort to improve Jackson and Meridian, two of our state’s most cherished and historical cities.  These are just a few examples of issues that are vital to improving Mississippi.  There is a laundry list of issues Mississippians prefer the state legislature to act on. But, forging an alliance with a foreign country responsible for murdering women and children is not on that list.  The voter initiative process was invalidated in 2021 and needs to be restored immediately.  No bills that would implement universal school choice were introduced in 2025.  Although the legislature did manage to pass a bill designed to fully eliminate the income tax, the tax on work will not be totally eliminated until 2040. Within the 90-day 2025 legislative session, our educational future, political rights, nor budget could be agreed upon.  But one thing was made crystal clear early in the session: Israel deserved unanimous, unquestionable, and unwavering support from the Mississippi legislature.  As Mississippi politicians gather at the Neshoba County Fair this week, keep in mind that each of you took an oath to pursue what is in the best interest of Mississippi and America. Not a foreign country.  We, the people, must recognize that if we fail to hold our politicians accountable they will continue taking advantage of our political agency to satisfy their self interests.  This letter is to serve as a public condemnation of SCR531.  The people of Senate District 18 and House District 44 deserve a substantive explanation, from Senator Lane Taylor and Representative C. Scott Bounds, outlining why they support SCR531.  Sincerely,  Lee Carleton Smith   Neshoba County, Mississippi July 2025 Support the show

    52 min

  2. 12/20/2023

    #131 - Arden Barnett - Ardenland

    Step behind the curtain with Arden Barnett of Ardenland as he orchestrates the rich symphony of theater management and the vibrant Mississippi music scene. From the historic Ellis Theater to the legendary Duling Hall, Arden unveils the multifaceted role of a music impresario, with a deep dive into the nuances of booking acts, embracing the community's cultural heartbeat, and tailoring experiences that resonate with the soul of Jackson. The soul of a city can be heard in its music, and in Jackson, it's an anthem that rings out in every chord. Our conversation with Arden explores the city's soulful reputation, where R&B and comfort food meld with the spirit of its people. Trust and quality resonate as keynotes in the art of booking talent, reflecting the community's appetite for authenticity. With Marty Stuart's influence in the mix, the commitment to preserving musical heritage becomes a tangible part of Philadelphia's Ellis Theater's event strategy, striking a chord with both locals and visitors. Rounding out this melodic journey, Arden shares the behind-the-scenes tempo of raising the roof for the Congress of Country Music with star-studded fundraising concerts. As cultural celebrations with a cause, these events harmonize the need for financial support with the community's love for live entertainment. Meanwhile, navigating the complexities of Mississippi's music festivals showcases the local talent and logistical finesse that keeps the state's festival scene on beat. Tune in for a masterclass in the art of music management, where every note is played with passion for the community and an ear for excellence. Ardenland Website: https://www.ardenland.net/ ------------------------------------------------------ Marty Stuart's Congress of Country Music Website: https://www.congressofcountrymusic.org/ ------------------------------------------------------ Where's The County Line: Website: https://www.countylinepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/countylinepodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/countylinepodcastms YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecountylinepodcast/about Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/countylinepodcast Submit content, questions, and topics you would like to hear on The County Line to: countylinepodcast@gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------- (0:06) Introduction to Ardenland (15:57) Jackson's Music and Soul Reputation (21:43) Fundraising Concerts for Country Music Congress (26:10) Fundraising and Planning for Ellis Theater (30:56) Managing Music Festivals in Mississippi The Ryan Samuels ShowModern-day politics discussion and analysis. Conservative Political Commentator Ryan...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

    42 min

  3. 11/29/2023

    #130 - Americans for Prosperity w/ Stone Clanton and Cade Yates

    Are you aware of the grassroots organization making waves in the political landscape, Americans for Prosperity (AFP)? We've got the inside scoop as we chat with AFP's Stone Clanton and Cade Yates about the influential work they're doing. Advocating for limited government, lower taxes, and free markets, this powerhouse team is taking citizen engagement to new heights. They're shaping the discourse on key policy areas like education and healthcare and using a bottom-up approach to drive change. Stepping away from the traditional talk on policy, we take an unexpected culinary detour, celebrating Southern cuisine in all its glory. You'll be surprised to find out where Clanton and Yates recommend getting the best fried chicken in Mississippi! Then, we steer the ship back to crucial topics like government spending, education, and Medicaid expansion. We question the balance between government safety nets and community charity, the need for a long-term solution for affordable healthcare, and how education can become more flexible to cater to individual needs. Finally, we jump into the hot topic of tax policy and AFP's vision of reducing taxes wherever possible. We dream about the possibility of eliminating income tax in Mississippi, the challenges that pose, and the need to cut government spending. Whether it's healthcare, taxes or education, the crux of our conversation always comes back to this - every citizen deserves quality, affordable services, and the freedom to choose what's best for them. Come join us on this enlightening journey with Stone Clanton and Cade Yates as we navigate these pressing issues and envision a future of prosperity. Americans for Prosperity Website: https://americansforprosperity.org/ and  https://standtogether.org/about-us/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afpmississippi/ X: @afp_ms Facebook: @afpms E-mail: sclanton@afphq.org --------------------------------------------------------------------- Where's The County Line: Website: https://www.countylinepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/countylinepodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/countylinepodcastms YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecountylinepodcast/about Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/countylinepodcast Submit content, questions, and topics you would like to hear on The County Line to: countylinepodcast@gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------- (00:04) Americans for Prosperity (13:19) Government's Role and Love for Southern Cuisine (21:27) Controlling Government Spending and Education (32:56) The Progress of Human Progress (36:25) Medicaid Expansion (41:47) Medicaid Expansion Concerns and Challenges (56:44) Repealing COIN and Medicaid Expansion (1:02:30) Healthcare Options and Technology Advancements (1:15:15) The Ryan Samuels ShowModern-day politics discussion and analysis. Conservative Political Commentator Ryan...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

    1h 56m

  4. 11/22/2023

    #129 - Mary Ryan Brown

    Mary Ryan Brown is a comedian from Hattiesburg, Mississippi. https://www.maryryanbrown.com/ This is Mary Ryan's second time joining us at The County Line (she's now a regular) and the conversation does not disappoint! Go follow her. She's hilarious and we want everybody to know she is hilarious! See below for episode description, timestamps, and socials. As always, thank you all for your love and support! Do you ever feel like you're trying to tread water in the ever-changing whirlpool of life? Come on board for a voyage of comedy, vulnerability, and heart-to-heart chats as we navigate through life's complexities! From the perplexing universe of dating apps and the alarming world of massage parlors to the endless struggle of imposter syndrome, this episode is packed with laughter, insights, and more. It's a rollercoaster ride that swings between light-hearted fun and serious discussions. Picture this: you're sifting through dating apps, struggling to distinguish real people from bots, only to end up with a mobile masseuse with a questionable background! Add to that the shady side of massage parlors and an intense discussion about human trafficking. Yet, in true comedian style, we lighten the mood by sharing our secret dreams of becoming strippers, complete with a preferred playlist and a fan moment for Niykee Heaton. We also bare our souls about the less glamorous sides of our careers - the crippling doubt, the arduous balancing act with parenting, and the ever-present comparison game. The fun doesn't stop there! We delve deep into the world of relationships - from discussing the intricacies of introducing a significant other to your family, to exploring the nuances of family group chats. We even find time to throw shade on green messages and declare our undying love for all things Apple! So buckle up for an episode filled with laughter, personal revelations, and some useful tips for journeying through the hustle and bustle of life's challenges. MARY RYAN BROWN Website: https://www.maryryanbrown.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryryanbrown/ E-mail: mrbrowncomedy@gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Where's The County Line: Website: https://www.countylinepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/countylinepodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/countylinepodcastms YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecountylinepodcast/about Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/countylinepodcast Submit content, questions, and topics you would like to hear on The County Line to: countylinepodcast@gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------- (0:22) Dating Apps and Massage Services Discussion (17:02) Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Achieving Success (25:29) The Importance of Consistency and Confidence (32:15) Navigating Family Dynamics and Dating (41:01) Worst F The Ryan Samuels ShowModern-day politics discussion and analysis. Conservative Political Commentator Ryan...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

    1h 35m

  5. 11/15/2023

    #128 - Boosie, Anthropomorphism, Christmas

    Imagine getting the chance to negotiate with your all-time favorite rapper for an appearance on your podcast. Well, that's exactly what happened when I spotted Boosie Bad Azz, my musical idol, on Instagram and took the leap to invite him onto the County Line. An unexpected phone call later, we were discussing arrangements for the show. But this episode is not just about my first encounter with Boosie. I provide a recap of Bobby Rush's 90th birthday concert at the Ellis Theater in Philadelphia, Mississippi. It was an incredible evening, brimming with nostalgia and community spirit. Bobby Rush is phenomenal, even-still at the ripe age of 90! We delve into how our furry friends are more than just pets for many Millennials and Gen Zs. This raises some interesting questions about emotional reliance and future relationships. Moreover, we contemplate the trend of pet anthropomorphism and the implications it might indicate about setting boundaries and emotional maturity. The holiday season means something different to everyone. For me, the holiday season has traditionally been the beginning of an annual depressive episode. You may be asking yourself, "What the hell is wrong with Lee?" I'll tell you if you just listen. So get ready to shake hands with a rap legend, gain a novel perspective on pet anthropomorphism, and view the holidays in a depressing light!  Let's take a ride! --------------------------------------------------- Where is The County Line: https://www.countylinepodcast.com/ https://www.instagram.com/countylinepodcast/ ----------------------------------------------------- (0:30) Personal encounter with Boosie (4:30) Boosie e-mail and phone conversation (11:20) Bobby Rush 90th Birthday (20:00) Dating app stigmas (24:00) Pet Anthropomorphism (33:00) I'm not picking up dog shit (44:00) Holiday season is depressing to me (47:00) Is New Years Eve overrated? The Ryan Samuels ShowModern-day politics discussion and analysis. Conservative Political Commentator Ryan...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

    50 min

  6. 11/08/2023

    #127 - Ben Hardy Interviews Lee Carl

    The tables are turned on this episode of The County Line! Ben Hardy, Philadelphia, MS native and longtime friend of mine comes through to interview me, Lee Carl. The episode portrays me in a different light as this is the first time I have been interviewed on The County Line. The conversation is driven by specific questions Ben poses. I do my very best to be as introspective as possible for The County Line Congregation! If you know Ben, you will not be surprised by the vast array of topics we cover throughout the interview. If you are not familiar with Ben, myself, or The County Line nothing could serve as a better introduction than this episode! We explore the immense value of sound systems in bands, crucial need for more entrepreneurial efforts in small towns, power of parks and recreation, abandoned railroad beds, rap music, mental health and many, many more captivating topics. "Thank you to Ben Hardy and the entire County Line Congregation for your continued support! Much love and many thanks!" -Lee Carl --------------------------------------------------- Learn more about Ben: https://www.instagram.com/bigbenhardy/ Where is The County Line: https://www.countylinepodcast.com/ ----------------------------------------------------- (0:06) Earpieces for Sound Monitoring Benefits (3:44) Discussion on Entrepreneurship, Restaurants, and Growth (19:44) Improving the Park and Community Amenities (25:41) Voicing Opinions in the Digital Age (38:15) Face-to-Face Communication (42:33) Music Preferences and Personal Memories (47:15) Hip Hop and Soul Music (1:00:22) Southern Hip Hop Artists and Patreon (1:06:34) The Vassals and Ethan Carter's Role (1:22:59) Tom Tom's Death and Community Impact (1:33:40) Mental Health and Podcast Recommendations (1:55:05) Single Parent Homes' Impact on Success (2:09:52 The Ryan Samuels ShowModern-day politics discussion and analysis. Conservative Political Commentator Ryan...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

    2h 36m

  7. 11/01/2023

    #126 - Quentin Whitwell

    Are the bigger hospitals always the best providers of healthcare? Quentin Whitwell, CEO of Progressive Health, turns this idea on its head as we delve deeply into the world of rural healthcare. Quentin's insightful conversation reveals a landscape rich with potential, highlighting the unique advantages small hospitals bring to the table - from a better staff-to-patient ratio to a more personalized level of patient care. We take an enlightening journey through the complex maze of federal funding, discussing how the government's matching program can be a game-changer for rural healthcare. Quentin supplies a fresh perspective on the concept of Medicaid expansion, debunking common misconceptions and laying bare the true potential it holds for improving patient care. He also sheds light on the challenges of scaling an organization across multiple states and reveals how Progressive Health has employed a unique hybrid model to manage and purchase hospitals. Finally, we wrap up our conversation by immersing ourselves in the unique stories and character of small towns. Quentin shares his thoughts on promoting health equity, underscoring the importance of fostering healthy lifestyles and creating a movement towards better health. You won't want to miss this intriguing and insightful conversation with Quentin Whitwell, where we unearth the hidden potential of rural healthcare. QUENTIN WHITWELL: https://www.quentinwhitwell.one/about QUENTIN WHITWELL INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/qwhitwell/ PROGRESSIVE HEALTH: https://www.phghealth.com/ ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Where's The County Line: Website: https://www.countylinepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/countylinepodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/countylinepodcastms YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecountylinepodcast/about Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/countylinepodcast Submit content, questions, and topics you would like to hear on The County Line to: countylinepodcast@gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------- (0:18) Progressive Health in Rural Hospital (15:47) Issues and Solutions for Rural Hospitals (29:43) Medicaid Expansion and Rural Hospitals (38:14) Hospital Expansion and COVID Funding (50:50) Rural Healthcare and Public Conversations (56:21) Explore Towns, Promote Health Equity The Ryan Samuels ShowModern-day politics discussion and analysis. Conservative Political Commentator Ryan...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

    1h 4m

  8. 10/25/2023

    #125 - Greta Kemp Martin

    Join us for a candid conversation with Mississippi Attorney General candidate, Greta Kemp Martin. Greta, with her deep-rooted history in law and her passionate advocacy at Disability Rights Mississippi, touches upon her perceived palpable shift in the voting mindset, where voters are choosing the individual over party lines. In the course of our discussion, we try to unravel the complexities surrounding the Dobbs Decision and the Attorney General's office. Greta's observations suggest a questionable representation of the Department of Human Services by a private firm and an alarming absence of the Attorney General's office in the investigation. She also shares her perspective on key issues like gun laws, felon rights, and the inappropriate use of taxpayer dollars by Attorney General Fitch to manipulate other states' policymaking. We then delve into the heart of Mississippi, unearthing the challenges that the state grapples with, such as dire political polarization, failing mental health systems, and the dire need for community-centered resources in rural locales. Greta provides her insights into these pressing issues and articulates her plans to confront them, should she be elected as Attorney General. This episode offers a rare, insightful glimpse into the heart of Mississippi politics, making it an essential listen for anyone wishing to understand the political undercurrents better. GRETA KEMP MARTIN: https://www.gretaforag.com/ GRETA KEMP MARTIN INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/gretaforag/ ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Where's The County Line: Website: https://www.countylinepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/countylinepodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/countylinepodcastms YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecountylinepodcast/about Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/countylinepodcast Submit content, questions, and topics you would like to hear on The County Line to: countylinepodcast@gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------- (0:20) Greta Kemp Martin's Run for Attorney General (12:54) Dobbs Decision and Attorney General's Involvement (29:47) Gun Laws and Felon Rights (45:19) Voting and Political Alignment in Mississippi (58:05) Mental Health Systems Failures The Ryan Samuels ShowModern-day politics discussion and analysis. Conservative Political Commentator Ryan...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show

    1h 16m
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About

The county line is a place traditionally known for being vague, ambiguous, and frequently visited by people who are intrigued by the prospect of viewing life from an unconventional perspective. Episodes include conversations led by host, Lee Carl, and a wide ranging cast of characters. Come join us for genuine hospitality and entertainment on the outskirts of life!

Information

  • Creator
    Lee C. Smith
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    132
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The County Line
  • Show Website
    The County Line