101.1 The Pulse

What if the old TV shows we grew up with were secretly teaching us how to live better than today’s fast-paced world? Darien reflects on timeless lessons from The Andy Griffith Show, Good Times, and All in the Family—patience, family bonds, character, and doing what’s right even when no one’s watching. He reminds us that real growth comes from uncomfortable conversations and...

What if the lessons from Saturday night wrestling could still save our world today? In this Small Town Soapbox, DarIen takes us back to childhood ringside battles with Dusty Rhodes and Ric Flair to remind us of clear lines between good and evil, the power of perseverance, and why standing up still matters—even when life feels scripted. Sometimes the simplest childhood truths hold the deepest...

Bullies aren’t just in school hallways anymore—they’ve gone digital and even hide behind friendly smiles at church. In this Small Town Soapbox, Darien calls out modern bullying, from online jabs to small-town gossip disguised as jokes. He challenges listeners to replace insecurity-fueled put-downs with real strength: building others up through grace and encouragement. A powerful...

What if the strongest thing you could do today… was stay quiet? In this episode of Small Town Soapbox , Darien delivers a heartfelt message about a world that no longer whispers, but broadcasts. From social media pile‑ons to public shaming, we explore what’s been lost when everything becomes front‑porch news. Through small‑town wisdom, faith, and hard-earned life lessons, this episode...

What if your wildest Easter memory involved flying in a tiny helicopter dressed as the Easter Bunny? On this heartwarming episode of Saturdays with Sandra, host Sandra Parrish chats with Colleen, our community queen, about her favorite Easter traditions. From childhood church celebrations and family egg hunts to hilarious family stories—including Colleen’s daring bunny helicopter landi...

What happens when Easter plans get disrupted—and the deeper meaning still shines through? In this special Easter edition of Saturdays with Sandra , Sandra Parrish talks with Pastor Steve Dusek of The Orchard Life Church in Ellijay about shifting Easter celebrations due to weather and why Easter remains the cornerstone of the Christian faith. From outdoor services and egg cannons to the cross...

What if one tiny home village could transform the lives of hundreds of homeless students in Marietta City Schools? On this special Easter episode of Saturdays with Sandra, host Sandra Parrish sits down with Molly Holm, CEO of Glory Haus, to discuss their inspiring partnership with the City of Marietta. Discover Emmanuel’s Village — a faith-based transitional housing community designed...

What does it take to bring the Thunderbirds roaring into a small North Georgia city? On this episode of Saturdays with Sandra , host Sandra Parrish sits down with John Cowman of JLC Air Show Management to preview the Wings Over North Georgia Air Show in Rome. From the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and high‑speed jet teams to night show spectacles and record attendance expectations, this conversation...

Every small town has that one pastor—and he may be the most important person you never brag about. In this episode of Small Town Soapbox , Darien delivers a heartfelt tribute to the local pastor and the small churches that quietly hold communities together. From hospital rooms to muddy cemeteries, these pastors show up, know your name, and love you anyway. This is a powerful reminder that fa...

What if talent isn’t enough—and never really has been? In this Small Town Soapbox , Darien tackles a quiet truth many people notice but few say out loud: the music industry often values image over raw vocal power. From small-town churches in North Georgia to the polished world of professional music, Darien contrasts authenticity with marketability, asking why voices that move the soul...

On April Fools’ Day, when the internet is overflowing with fake news and bad jokes, one thing becomes painfully clear: people can’t tell truth from nonsense anymore. In this Small Town Soapbox, Darien cuts through the noise to challenge the culture of “gotcha” moments, viral hoaxes, and manufactured outrage. With humor and conviction, he makes the case for something radical...

What happens when global crises and teenage homework live on the same tiny screen? In this Small Town Soapbox , Darien takes on the overload of modern life—where headlines about war, rising gas prices, and political tension sit inches away from social media scrolls meant for kids. With reflections rooted in small-town North Georgia, Darien contrasts today’s nonstop digital noise with a...

What if the answer to all the noise and division wasn’t louder opinions—but a pickleball court? In this Small Town Soapbox , Darien reflects on a weekend filled with protests, arguments, and online outrage, then pivots to a surprising symbol of unity: “Pickleball Paul.” Drawing inspiration from small-town life across North Georgia, Darien explores how community, connection,...

What do helicopters, 4,000 Easter eggs, and one big community celebration have in common? Sandra Parrish talks with Darien Sabout a larger-than-life Easter Egg Extravaganza bringing families together for a fun-filled morning. From age-group egg hunts and exciting helicopter egg drops to prizes, snacks, and safe, family-friendly fun, this episode highlights how local partners are creating unforgett...

Before you book your next vacation, there’s one important family member you can’t forget—your pet. Sandra Parrish and community expert Colleen dive into practical, must-know tips for caring for pets while you’re away. From booking boarding facilities early and scheduling test stays to arranging in-home pet sitters and keeping vaccinations up to date, this conversation helps...

Pickleball players, this one’s for you—because this tournament is about more than just winning points. Sandra Parrish talks with John Holland, tournament coordinator for the Mountain Mayhem Pickleball Tournament in Ellijay, about how a fast-growing sport is making a real impact. They discuss how the two-day event brings players from multiple states together to raise funds for Appalachi...

What happens when kids unplug from screens and plug into nature, faith, and friendship for an entire summer? Host Sandra Parrish talks with Russell Davis, executive director of Camp Glisson in Dahlonega, about a camp that’s been shaping lives for over 100 years. They explore what makes this Christian summer camp unique—from zip lines and waterfront adventures to worship led by campers...

Georgia lawmakers are rewriting the rules—and your wallet may feel it. In this episode of Saturdays with Sandra , host Sandra Parrish sits down with AJC political reporter Greg Bluestein to unpack the flurry of major decisions coming out of the final days of Georgia’s legislative session. From gas tax suspensions and income tax rebates to literacy funding battles, school cell phone ban...

What would you do if four seasons of weather hit in a single day? Sandra and Colleen break down how to stay safe and prepared when spring storms, power outages, and sudden temperature swings strike North Georgia. From tornado plans and backup heat to flashlights, candles, apps, coolers, and even non‑tech entertainment, they share practical steps every household should take before severe weather ar...

What’s it really like to step inside a spinning space lab and experience life as an astronaut? Sandra talks with Amy Gramsey from the Tellus Science Museum about their immersive “Journey to Space” exhibit, complete with ISS‑style labs, robotic arms, astronaut food, and a dizzying Destiny Lab walkway. They also explore the “Measurement Rules” exhibit and the museum&rsq...

What happens when you mix 24 wing vendors, all‑day music, and 20,000 hungry festival‑goers? Sandra sits down with event producer Shane Aubrey to preview this year’s Wings and Rock Fest in Canton. They break down the two‑day lineup, including tribute bands, family‑friendly activities, wing‑eating contests, crowd favorites, and how the community comes together for one of North Georgia’s...

What happens when an entire college class tests socialism in real time—and everyone fails? In this Small Town Soapbox, Darien breaks down a powerful classroom experiment that reveals why equal outcomes don’t always mean fairness. Through real talk, simple examples, and five unforgettable truths about work, reward, and responsibility, Darien and Asa tackle why effort matters and why rem...

Hummingbirds are on the move — and this episode reveals why now is the moment to get your feeders ready. Sandra talks with Colleen about migration patterns, territorial bird behavior, how to properly maintain feeders, and tips for protecting flowers and blooming trees from late‑season cold snaps. From “boss baby” hummingbirds guarding their feeders to practical backyard hacks, th...

Spring is bursting to life — and Gibbs Gardens is at the center of the bloom. Sandra Parrish talks with Lisa Starr, Director of Sales, about the nation’s top-rated flower festival, 20 million daffodils in peak season, and the breathtaking cherry trees and tulips drawing visitors from across Georgia. Lisa shares what’s blooming now, the best times to visit, family‑friendly activit...

A political showdown in Georgia is unfolding — and the stakes are higher than anyone expected. Sandra Parish sits down with AJC political reporter Greg Bluestein to break down the crowded 14th District race, Donald Trump’s continued influence, and why Democrats are outperforming expectations in one of the state’s reddest regions. Bluestein explains the key players, the possibilit...