Kudzu StoryCatchers

Alabama native and "Watcher From The Shadows" Vicki Hallman Robb takes hosts Melissa Ford Thornton and Justin L. Newman on a humorous romp through her family's uniquely Southern perspective when dealing with the inevitability of death (and everything before and after) between the lines of her story "Ease On Down That Lonesome Road." Joined by her sister, Becky Scheinert, Vicki shares insights on u...

The episode is dedicated to Master Storyteller Kathryn Tucker Windham - who wrote the classic 13 Alabama Ghosts & Jeffrey that has enthralled readers of all ages. Hosts Melissa Ford Thornton and Justin L. Newman explore the cultural significance of ghost stories particularly in the South. Grandma's Ghosts, a true story told by Karen Kirkpatrick, underscores the power of love and family bonds i...

In this episode, hosts Melissa Ford Thornton and Justin Newman explore stories of creative perseverance.: Malli Lusk - a young jewelry maker who uses instinct and Pinterest to build her craft - Keilee Terry, who has successfully run a character entertainment business for ten years despite early age-related skepticism. Finally, they share the journey of Alex Gibson, a deaf chemical engineer turned...

In this episode, 84 year-old Huntsville native Rose Battle shares the story of her first job at the Feed & Seed Store in Pratt City, Alabama. At age 15, while helping a customer make his mark, Rose discovered the path to making her own: a lifelong dedication to teaching and addressing disparities in schools. Hosts Melissa Ford Thornton and Justin L. Newman sit down with Rose and explore deeper...

The podcast episode explores the culture of dive bars in the South, focusing on spots in both Alabama and East Nashville. Whitney Washington shares her experiences, highlighting the inclusivity and authenticity of dive bars. The episode also touches on the evolution of dive bars, the importance of community, and the challenges of maintaining their character in a changing environment. The hosts, Me...

Happy Birthday, Mo.

Melissa Ford Thornton and Justin Newman, hosts of the Kudzu StoryCatchers podcast, discuss their debut episode and the significance of storytelling. They share personal stories, including Justin's experience overcoming fear with a unique gift, and Melissa's “vacation” in the Okefenokee Swamp. Others’ initial impressions of what storytelling means to them are shared in “Found Sound” moments capture...

The Kudzu Kountdown Begins. Tick-Tock…