The Christmas Connection

Get ready for a heartwarming conversation with actress Emma Johnson, star of the new Lifetime holiday movie Christmas in Alaska, premiering December 12. In this cozy interview, Emma shares what drew her to this story, the magic of filming in a snowy, small-town setting, and the behind-the-scenes moments that made this project unforgettable. We also talk about her favorite holiday traditions, the c...

Step back into the heartwarming world of Little House on the Prairie as Dean Butler—beloved for his iconic role as Almanzo Wilder—joins Dawn Mac for a meaningful and engaging conversation on The Christmas Connection. In this episode, Dean reflects on: ✨ His unforgettable years on Little House on the Prairie ✨ The creative legacy of Michael Landon ✨ How storytelling continues to shape his life a...

In this special episode, Dawn Mac sits down with beloved Hallmark star Nikki DeLoach for a heartfelt and deeply meaningful conversation. Nikki opens up about her brand-new holiday film, A Grand Ole Opry Christma s, where she returns to her musical roots and steps into the legacy of one of the most iconic stages in American history. She shares beautiful behind-the-scenes insights, moments that move...

On this episode of The Christmas Connection, Dawn Mac welcomes The Allison Family, the incredible team behind the beloved Allison Christmas Spectacular — one of the most dazzling and heartfelt holiday light displays around. We talk about how their family’s tradition began, the inspiration behind the display, the hard work and creativity that go into bringing it to life each year, and what keeps th...

NY Times Bestselling Author Richard Paul Evans joins Dawn Mac for an inspiring conversation about his brand-new holiday novel, The Christmas Stranger . Known around the world for The Christmas Box and his deeply moving stories of faith, redemption, and hope, Richard shares the inspiration behind his newest Christmas tale and reflects on the messages that have made his books beloved holiday traditi...

In this episode of The Christmas Connection, Dawn Mac chats with actress Emily Alatalo, known for her roles in holiday favorites and the heartwarming series Crossroad Springs. Emily shares stories from her incredible 2,000-mile hike along the Appalachian Trail, how her adventurous spirit has influenced her acting career, and what inspires her most about telling meaningful stories on screen. It’s a...

In this episode, Dawn Mac welcomes talented vocalist and songwriter Andrew DeLong, whose brand-new holiday album Christmas In Full Swing captures the timeless charm of the season with a fresh, big band flair. Recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studio 2 with London’s finest musicians, the album features stunning arrangements by Emily Lim and Richard Jacques, along with two beautiful new originals...

Dawn Mac returns with another uplifting moment on The Christmas Connection! Today’s message, “Finding Joy in the Simple Things,” is a heartfelt reminder to pause and appreciate the little moments that make the holiday season shine — from cozy sweaters and cinnamon candles to shared laughter and glowing lights. 💭 What small thing reminds you that the Christmas season has arrived? Join the conversa...

In this episode, Dawn Mac welcomes acclaimed actor Eric Close, known for his standout roles in Nashville, Without a Trace, and a long list of beloved holiday films. Eric joins Dawn to talk about his brand-new theatrical release, All Is Merry & Bright — opening in theatres November 7th. They discuss the heart and hope behind the film, the power of storytelling that uplifts and connects, and how...

Dawn Mac sits down with the talented and inspiring Jen Lilley — actress, author, and advocate — to talk about her brand-new book, Wake Up Your Faith, releasing November 4th. In this uplifting conversation, Jen shares how faith has shaped her journey, guided her career choices, and helped her navigate life’s challenges with grace and purpose. It’s an honest and heartfelt discussion filled with hope...

Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 4 – The Devil’s Tramping Ground (Chatham County, NC) Deep in the woods of Chatham County, North Carolina, lies a mysterious barren circle where nothing grows. Animals refuse to cross it. Campers say their belongings move overnight. And for more than two hundred years, locals have whispered the same chilling tale… They call it The...

Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 5 – The Ghost Ship Carroll A. Deering: The Graveyard of the Atlantic In 1921, a five-masted schooner named The Carroll A. Deering was found run aground off the coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina — completely abandoned. The crew had vanished. Meals sat uneaten, logbooks were missing, and lifeboats were gone without a trace. Wh...

Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 3: Lydia’s Bridge (Jamestown, North Carolina) Along a lonely stretch of Highway 70 near Jamestown, North Carolina, an old stone bridge hides one of the state’s most enduring ghost stories. They say if you drive past late at night — especially when the rain is falling — you might see her. A young woman in a white dress, standing b...

Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 3 – The Gray Man of Pawleys Island For more than two centuries, a mysterious figure known as The Gray Man has walked the shores of Pawleys Island. Always appearing before a hurricane, he is said to warn those in danger — and protect those who heed his silent message. Who is this spectral stranger? A lost sailor? A heartbroken lov...

Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 1 – The Ghost Light of Maco Station (Brunswick County) In the foggy pine forests of Brunswick County, North Carolina, a mysterious light has been seen swinging through the darkness for more than a century. Locals call it The Maco Light — the ghostly lantern of a railroad brakeman named Joe Baldwin, who lost his life in a tragic t...

Before the costumes, candy, and carved pumpkins — there was something deeper. 🎃 In this special episode of The Christmas Connection, host Dawn Mac takes you on a fascinating journey through the origins of Halloween — from ancient Celtic traditions and bonfires under the autumn sky to the first carved turnips and the birth of the modern jack-o’-lantern. Discover how history, folklore, and faith in...

🎄 Episode 2: The Magic of the First Ornament 🎄 In this heartwarming episode of The Christmas Connection, host Dawn Mac unwraps the story and symbolism behind one of the most cherished holiday traditions — the first ornament on the tree. Discover where the tradition began, how it’s evolved through generations, and why that single ornament often holds more meaning than all the rest. From sparkling...

Welcome to the very first episode of The Christmas Connection! 🎁 Join host Dawn Mac as she unwraps the heart and spirit of this brand-new holiday podcast — connecting you to the sounds, stories, and people who make Christmas so special. In this kickoff episode, Dawn shares the inspiration behind The Christmas Connection, her love for the season, and a nostalgic look back at the traditions that ma...