Backstory Sessions

Join our conversation with creative Gary Bryant. We discuss his many projects. Ace of Hearts  The sequel (Things Aren't What They Seem, also published) In progress: Missing (the third and final book of the series) Currently conducting interviews for the book about the tornado. Ace Johnson: Mysteries with Heart (My audio theatrical adaptation of Ace of Hearts) Regional Book Fair,

What are your resolutions or goals for 2026? What do you give yourself permission to let go of in the new year? Tune in as Cat and Willie discuss some top resolutions and why they might be successful or not.

This week, Colin Stough joins us for a candid conversation about his journey, staying grounded through change, and the stories that shape his music. Guest host Willie Carr helps guide a thoughtful discussion on creativity, resilience, and what it means to grow in the public eye.   We also dive into Colin's new song, "Best For You," and the personal meaning behind this powerful release.

Catch a cozy, no-filter chat with Louie James as he opens up about growing up near London, how classic American cinema lit his imagination, and the wild adventures of indie filmmaking that shaped his career. We dive into his intense roles, physical stunts in River of Blood, and the twists of performing in the new time-loop horror Manor of Darkness — releasing December 9th. Louie talks acting train...

Hey Chris — excited to share a sneak peek of Season 3 of Backstory Sessions. It’s that warm, old-school country variety you remember: live audiences, brotherly chemistry, comedy bits, and unforgettable moments (yes, Randy Travis stole the show). We’re taping at the Stockyards studio, touring hard, and dropping new country and gospel records soon — consider this your invite to grab a seat, laugh al...

Looking for a gift idea? Tune in as Cat suggests some ideas and discusses them with tonight's co-host Willie.

Hello Backstory fans! — Come and hang out with us as we close out season 16 with a fun interview with Nell Campbell (Columbia)from Rocky Horror. She spills how she was literally tapped into the role, how the Time Warp came to be, and why Rocky Horror still lights up people’s lives 50 years later. It’s full of backstage stories, fan love, and a sneak peek at her one-woman show All’s Nels That Ends...

Hello Backstory fans!  Grab a seat and listen in: this episode wraps up our Resilient series with raw, real stories that somehow turn fear into hope. We chat about the upcoming show, behind-the-scenes writing challenges. We also have a powerful conversation with our guest, Donna Mills about her daughter’s fight with leukemia — it’s heartbreaking and inspiring all at once. Tickets are on Eventbrite...

Hello Backstory fans! Meet Robert and Melissa Wyatt: a retired soldier and his partner who turned their ancestral church into a cozy home and a buzzing farm. Their story’s full of grit, funny moments, and old-school Appalachian know-how — from maple syrup and hickory cane corn to sauerkraut lessons and heirloom seeds. They’ve weathered floods, raccoons, and crop failures, but they keep innovating,...

Hello Backstory Fans! Welcome to our first episode about Resilience. Find out how this idea came about, and what we are doing in the coming weeks. This episode is a cozy, honest chat with our guest Fernanda Frey about moving to the U.S. with two suitcases, learning English through volleyball, surviving surgeries and single motherhood, and ultimately building a life she’s proud of. It’s the kind of...

Hey there, backstory Fans! In this episode, we dive into a delightful mix of theater chatter and music magic. If you're all about stories that tickle your funny bone and touch your heart, you're in for a treat! You'll hear about the hit play "Senior Senior Prom"—a laugh-out-loud performance that had audiences roaring and crying "aww" at the sweetest moments. And that's not all! We've got singer-so...

Hey Backstory Fans! Jump into this unique episode where we dive into the quirky world of AI-generated podcasting. For the first time ever, we handed over our beloved show to the machines, and the result is a blend of amusing chaos and technological magic. From sharing playful AI-generated backstories to discussing the potential future of AI in creative fields, we cover it all with a touch of humor...

Hello Backstory Fans., Join us another intriguing episode of Backstory Sessions as we reflect on recent celebrity losses and the profound effects these personalities have on our lives. Also this week, we are treated to a heartfelt interview with Scotty Hastings, an artist whose life story reads like a movie script. Facing near-death in Afghanistan and overcoming physical and emotional scars, Scott...

Hello Backstory fans! welcome to another exciting episode. This time, we  sit down with the wonderfully talented Sandy Knox, who is shaking things up with a brand-new genre she's coined 'boozical' - a blend of audiobooks and musicals! Join us as we dive into Sandy's journey of writing, composing, and overcoming challenges to create this innovative and captivating form of storytelling. You'll hear...

Hello Backstory fans! Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes in the making of a documentary? In this episode, We are joined by filmmaker Alan Parker as we get the inside scoop on his latest film, "Borrowed Time," which delves into the last decade of John Lennon's life. Alan shares his personal connection to John's music and the unique journey that led him to create this documentary....

Hello Backstory fans! You won't believe the incredible journey Ajay Rochester has been on! From hosting The Biggest Loser in Australia to her discovery of the charming town of Corbin, KY, her path is filled with twists and turns. She's fallen for this place, and now she's here casting for an exciting new reality TV show that aims to revolutionize health in small-town America. The upcoming show is...

Hello Backstory Fans!, and welcome to another exciting episode of Backstory Sessions! We are diving deep into the unique world of project management, A subject near and dear to Matt's heart. We chat about all sorts of fascinating topics, from unexpected tornadoes that might derail plans to navigating the complex jungle of project animals, such as the "flamingos" who are still on the fence about a...

Hey there, Backstory Family! Oh boy, do we have some fun updates for you! After a much-needed break, Cat and Matt are back for Season 16 of Backstory Sessions, and  it's starting off with a bang! We've been keeping busy, and Matt's got a new toy—a snazzy two-seater convertible that he's thrilled about. Perfect timing for those summery road trips, right? Cat's not been idle either, with her Mystery...

Hello Backstory Fans! Join us for this episode as we wrap up Season 15 in style, sharing some laughs, reflections, and exciting news about upcoming projects. We reminisce about the whirlwind of March and dive into everything from wild weather patterns to the joy of a birthday celebration. If you're looking for inspiration, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in as we chat with the talented singer...

Hello Backstory Fans! In this episode, we dive into the excitement of Spring's arrival, sharing our thoughts on the season and a mysterious uptick in our podcast listens. We discuss everything from fun new mottos for Pennsylvania to the unpredictable nature of the podcasting world. Then, join us for an exhilarating journey with our guest, Jennie Smythe, a creative force in the music industry whose...

Hello Backstory fans! Can you believe it's been 200 episodes already? We've shared so many stories, played some silly games, and interviewed some truly remarkable people.  It's been quite a journey. 200 episodes means 200 amazing opportunities to learn something new and meet fascinating folks. Our episode this week is another great one! In this fun episode we sit down and chat with the amazing Ann...

Hello Backstory fans! Ever wondered what fuels a musician's journey from humble beginnings to sharing a stage with legends? Meet Jordan Allen from London, Kentucky, as he takes you on his heartfelt adventure through music, life, and his unforgettable experience on The Voice.  From playing drums at six to kicking off a career that transcends the typical, Jordan shares his passion, the influences th...

Hello Backstory fans! We are back with another great episode where we first dive into some March musings. We kick off by discussing the age-old saying about March's weather, pondering if it's starting like a lion or a lamb. It's been quite a mixture here with some drastic temperature drops! The focus of this episode is our chat with the incredibly talented Andy James and Piero Pata from the world...

Hello Backstory Fans! Welcome to a delightful dive into the making of the inspiring documentary, 'Food for Thought.' Join me as we chat with filmmakers Giles Alderson and Dan Richardson, two longtime friends who took a leap of faith and dove deep into creating a film that challenges the way we think about food and animal welfare. This episode is packed with insights on how a simple conversation tu...

Hello Backstory fans! In this cozy episode, we go on a delightful journey through love and melodies just in time for Valentine's weekend. Join the chatter as we explore how folks celebrated this year, with a mix of chocolates, dinners, and quirky breakup tales. Dive into some small-town weather chaos, and the legendary predictions from our furry friend, the groundhog. But the heart of this episode...