Melissa Ford Thornton & Justin L. Newman

Kudzu StoryCatchers

Arts EN ↓ 6 episodes

One mic. Two hosts. A Universe of Stories. Southerners just have a special way of spinning a yarn and, in doing so, impart culture, history, and important life lessons. Stories connect us, build bridges of understanding, and spark vital conversations. They do not simply entertain – they are a means of giving the best of ourselves to one another. Join hosts Melissa Ford Thornton and Justin L. Newman as they venture out to share their own stories and catch those of others.

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Author

Melissa Ford Thornton & Justin L. Newman

Episodes

Making Your Mark - Part 2: Out Of Silence, Creativity Sparks 24.08.2026 33:13

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...

Making Your Mark - Part 1: Five Cents Of Burial Insurance 05.08.2026 26:40

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...

Diving In (To Dive Bars) 06.07.2026 27:18

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...

6/26/62 @ 6:26 a.m. 28.06.2026 32:17

Happy Birthday, Mo.

We, StoryCatchers (Don't Lie For A Living) 18.06.2026 37:35

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...

Teaser 18.06.2026 0:58

The Kudzu Kountdown Begins. Tick-Tock…