American Road Trip Talk

In this week’s edition of American Road Trip Talk, we are diving deep into the Garden State’s most enduring legends. Our special guest, Karl Petry, will serve as our guide through the strange and fascinating history of the region. Among them, the terrifying “New Jersey Devil”, the state’s clown prince of Paterson, Lou Costello, and the luxurious seaside resort town of Cape May. Also, there is the forbidding Sleepy Hollow, made famous by Washington Irving. Buckle up for a journey through folklore and history!

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In this week’s edition of American Road Trip Talk, Sharon Strouse joins us whose has been involved with the National Scenic Byway program since 1997. As Executive Director of NSBF, she leads our member driven nonprofit organization to be the ‘National Voice of Scenic Byways and Roads,’ along with our national partners. Supporting byway leaders to protect and enhance their byway resources has been her aspiration. Through planning, fund-raising and education, she has gained experience at the local, state and national levels working with byways and byway leaders.

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Across America, Holiday celebrations are in full swing. Road trip expert Jessica Dunham joins us to talk about notable places where Christmastime is happening spectacularly with unique experiences to offer.

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Leavenworth, Washington captures the seasonal magic of the Cascade Mountains, where snow-dusted, peaked Bavarian roofs and a spectacular lighting festival create a landscape that looks like a hand-painted greeting card. Beyond the world-class Christmas charm and German delicacies, listeners will also receive essential winter travel tips, from navigating snowy mountain passes with the right tires to finding alternate routes during local flooding. Whether you're dreaming of a day trip to see the lights or planning a festive adventure on the alpine roller coaster, this holiday special is your guide to one of the most scenic destinations in North America.<...

While Santa is out enjoying his milk and cookies, Greg Rynearson has another perfect pair… Cops & Doughnuts! Since 1896, a doughnut shop and bakery in Clare, Michigan dubbed “Cops and Doughnuts,” offers a warm fresh doughnut and a steaming cup of cops coffee while you enjoy the police decor and friendly, and very safe, atmosphere. Greg is a former police officer of Clare City and a proud owner of this establishment, and he joins us to share all about the community engagements this holiday season in this week’s edition of American Road Trip Talk!

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In this week’s edition of American Road Trip Talk, we feature a special spotlight of Highway 12 Winery for the first few minutes of the show. Then for the rest of the episode, Jennifer Morrison joins us who is the Director of Vehicle Safety at Mazda North American Operations, overseeing the strategic vision and execution of MNAO’s comprehensive vehicle safety program, aligning industry-leading ratings with the company’s proactive safety philosophy and vision for a zero-fatality society. Before working for Mazda, Morrison spent over 15 years at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigating highway crashes as an Investigator-in-Charge and a...

This episode of American Road Trip Talk, hosted by Matt Shea, explores historic and cozy Pacific Northwest lodging, focusing on the comforting tradition of finding a "good cozy fire" after Thanksgiving. Matt tours numerous venues in Washington State, highlighting beautiful settings, award-winning dining, and the warmth of well-crafted fireplaces for a perfect cold-weather retreat.

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From Seattle’s free holiday meals, festive events, cruises, and Winterfest fun… to Plymouth’s 404th Thanksgiving, the 101st Macy’s Parade, TWO parades in St. Louis, San Antonio’s #1-ranked celebration, and Fountain Hills’ “Greatest Show” Thanksgiving parade—it’s your guide to holiday magic nationwide.

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With a history full or pioneers, early legislators, and adventurers, Saint Charles, Missouri has the distinction of being one of the must-see holiday destinations in the country. For half a century, visitors from around the world have flocked to this quaint river city for a blast of yuletide nostalgia. Listen and learn what all the local excitement is about!

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In this episode: New York Times Best Selling author of “Confessions of A Prairie Bitch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated”, Alison Arngrim is best known to viewers world-wide for her portrayal of the incredibly nasty “Nellie Oleson” on the much loved, long running hit television series "Little House On The Prairie," and continues to amuse audiences through her many film, television, stage and multi-media appearances.

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A good scare is the goal on this night of nights; the spirits would not have it otherwise! Author (Absent Witness) Karl Petry joins us for a particularly eerie angle on the festivities by way of independent filmmaking. He knows whereof he speaks, having produced and directed several such movies himself.

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The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive that runs through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, following a historic travel corridor. It is a designated National Scenic Byway popular for scenic driving, hiking, biking, and camping, with a leisurely 50 mph speed limit. Our guest for this episode is Kim Foster. She is the Executive Director of the Natchez Trace Compact, helping her to understand not only the communications side of projects, but the byway side as well.

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This is the time of year when we are enticed and horrified by the nocturnal frights that beckon us into the mysterious realm. Seattle and Puget Sound are perfect for celebrating Halloween; days are short and nights are long enough for spooky encounters at many venues that compete to see who is the scariest of them all. Ghost host Matt Shea describes a worthy variety of them in this episode. 

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Visiting the Capital of Illinois affords a rare opportunity to see into the past with all the perspective of the ensuing years on glorious display. Here is the Land of Lincoln, hallowed ground intimately interwoven with the pulse of today. The city has many ways to welcome, educate and entertain you. The people of Springfield know the value of where they live and work and are eager to share it with you. Amy Beadle of Visit Springfield Illinois is our guest and her expertise is invaluable.

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They are a version of Legends of the Fall: Corn Mazes and Pumpkin Patches. In this episode, guest host Matt Shea offers a survey of the places where we love to get lost. Spectacular orange and ruddy foliage and crisp zephyrs herald the change of seasons. There are many who wait all year for this experience. They are seldom disappointed.

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Travel Nevada, officially the Nevada Division of Tourism, is a state government agency responsible for marketing Nevada as a tourism destination to domestic and international visitors. It promotes the state's varied attractions through its official tourism website, TravelNevada.com and publishes the state's official magazine, Nevada Magazine. Megg Mueller, executive editor, is our guest.

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Oktoberfest celebrations in Washington state vary, with popular events like the massive, Munich-style Oktoberfest Northwest in Puyallup featuring authentic food, beer, and traditional and rock music, and the Bavarian-themed Leavenworth Oktoberfest, which transforms the town into a German village with traditional music, yodelers, and a Ferris wheel. Other events include the Fremont Oktoberfest in Seattle, a beer-focused festival with numerous varieties on tap. Matt Shea visits with all you need to know to get the most out of the festivities.

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This episode focuses on children and parents around the Puget Sound enjoying an end-of-summer vacation. We will cover many venues designed for children of all ages. This will include: The Great Wolf Lodge, Seattle Children’s Museum and a number of small farm petting zoos. Also included are places where families can sit down together and enjoy great pizza and other menu favorites while the kids are having the time of their lives. Matt Shea is our guest host.

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Joey Madia is our guest for a look at the cafes and restaurants that made their name with good food and friendly service on The Mother Road. Whether you like to stick with your favorites or prefer to explore, we have you covered in this episode.

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As Wikipedia states, Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday of September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements in the United States. Karl Petry joins us for a survey and appreciation of the unofficial end of summer and the start of holiday season. 

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Our guest this week is Harriet Baskas, author of 111 Places in Seattle That You Must Not Miss, a guidebook… that explores the hidden gems and unique attractions of Seattle. It's designed to help both locals and visitors discover the city's lesser-known spots, offering a blend of history, quirky attractions and favorites.

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Monroe and West Monroe, Louisiana, are known for their twin-city dynamic, blending culture, outdoor recreation, and local attractions. They are particularly known for the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, and the Masur Museum of Art. West Monroe's Antique Alley is a popular destination for shopping, and both cities offer a variety of restaurants featuring Cajun cuisine and other international flavors.

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Guest host Matt Shea takes you on a whirlwind tour of the rugged coastline in Oregon and Washington in this episode. There is unspoiled beauty here that does not overlook the conveniences that travelers appreciate. Here are the places where you can get away from it all and, as an old song says, take back something worth remembering.

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“History Comes Alive” 2025 is a summer program in full swing from June 6 through August 9 in Springfield, Illinois, bringing the city’s history to life through interactive events, reenactments, and costumed interpreters. Visitors will meet characters like Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd and are welcome to participate in activities at the Lincoln Home and the Old State Capitol. Food and beverages of the era are available too. In addition, Springfield remains intimately connected to historic Route 66. Amy Beadle, marketing and advertising director for Visit Springfield, is our guest.

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An article appeared in American Road magazine featuring Michigan's Upper Peninsula (U.P.) titled "A Superior Road Trip" in the March 23, 2021 issue. The article highlights the region's natural beauty and attractions. In this episode, travel writer and Michigander Amy S. Eckert talks about the glories of the region in summertime.

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Guest host Matt Shea has spent countless hours hiking, camping and fishing historic lands of The Evergreen State and in this episode, he surveys a few of the best to be found north of Seattle. Summer is here and life is for living. Why not go out and grab some memories to last a lifetime while the weather is most favorable and Mother Nature is on radiant display?

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“It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s Superman!” The saga continues with the premiere of the latest iteration of The Man of Steel. There have been numerous films depicting the heroics of the most famous superhero of them all. Frequent contributor Karl Petry joins us with a survey of the films that have carried the legend forward.

American Road magazine has featured drive-in movie theaters in multiple issues, with a notable "A Night at the Drive-In" series focusing on these outdoor cinemas. The magazine's Summer 2014 issue, titled "A Night at the Drive-In 2...

Happy Independence Day! Join guest host Matt Shea for a survey of July 4th celebrations in Puget Sound and Western Washington. Large or small, there is a venue you and your loved ones are sure to enjoy.

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Fallon, Nevada is known as the "Oasis of Nevada" due to its fertile agricultural land and vibrant community, despite being located in a desert environment. It's also famous for Naval Air Station Fallon, which plays a significant role in the city's identity and economy. Additionally, Fallon is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. Civic leaders Jane Moon and Pam Yost are our guests.

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The DSA-2000 project, what will be the world’s most powerful radio telescope, is being built by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) outside of Ely, NV. Chosen because White Pine County hosts some of the darkest skies in visible light, the area also offers some of the darkest skies in radio wavelengths. This year, they have partnered with the Northern Nevada Railway to provide Caltech astronomer volunteers for Sunset, Stars, and Champagne train rides on Thurs. and Sat. nights. Dr. Katie Jameson is our guest with the inside story of this historic undertaking.

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“History Comes Alive" 2025 is a summer program from June 6 through August 9 in Springfield, Illinois, bringing the city's history to life through interactive events, reenactments, and costumed interpreters. Visitors can meet characters like Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd, learn about their lives, and participate in historic activities at locations like the Lincoln Home and the Old State Capitol. Food and beverages of the era are available too. Springfield also remains intimately connected to historic Route 66. Amy Beadle, marketing and advertising director for Visit Springfield, is our guest.

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Want to get far away from the noise and haste of daily life on your next vacation? Isle Royale National Park is a great destination for those seeking unspoiled beauty and unhurried adventure in the wild. Our guest is Jim DuFresne, a Michigan travel and outdoor expert who has been writing on where to go and what to do in the Great Lakes State for over 30 years.

Encore presentation originally published July 19, 2024.

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Twenty-eight federally recognized tribes stretch across Nevada. These tribes are all unique, with traditions that span many generations. But like the intricate strands that form a beautiful basket, these tribes are one, and their culture is strong and tightly woven together. Ben Rupert, representing Nevada’s Indian Territory leadership team, joins us to share his expertise and experiences in service to these sacred lands.

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Western Washington is ready to honor the courageous men and women who gave their lives to defend and protect America in wartime. Again this Memorial Day weekend, gratitude, pride and love are the hallmarks of commemoration. Regular contributor Matt Shea joins us in studio for a detailed survey of sites and events held throughout the region.

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In late September of 2024, Hurricane Helene struck, reaching Category 4 intensity in the Big Bend region of Florida and making landfall as a Category 4 storm. As it moved inland, Helene weakened to a post-tropical cyclone over Tennessee. One of the hardest hit areas was Pigeon River, stretching across North Carolina and East Tennessee. The welcome news is that the region is coming back better than ever with a variety of activities centered around its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Our guests, Stephen Foy and Lacy Bramlett, are partners in a coalition of the willing for the restoration and development of...

Tony Clemente aka Tony from Jersey has worked on all manner of cars for decades. His word is his bond and his skill is legendary. Ask the legions of drivers who trust him with their classics. To them, he is family. Everyone should have a Tony to count on but how many do? As you plan your 2025 summer road trip, remember the advice you hear in this episode and you will collect fond memories instead of scary stories on the highway.

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Hurricane Helene severely impacted the Appalachian Trail, requiring extensive efforts to clear downed trees, repair infrastructure, and restore impacted areas. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), along with partner organizations like the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service, is leading the recovery efforts, with significant volunteer and professional saw crews assisting with cleanup. Nobody does more with available resources than some dedicated Tennesseans with their expertise and boundless energy. We will meet two of them in this episode.

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The Pony Express was a fast mail service operating from 1860 to 1861 that used relays of horse-mounted riders to deliver mail between St. Joseph, Missouri, and Sacramento, California in about 10 days. It was a significant means of communication before the advent of the transcontinental telegraph. Ron Bell, poet and raconteur of this short-lived but critical time when storm clouds of Civil War were gathering, is our guest.

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In this edition, we feature a new exhibit at The Hollywood Museum. Iconic Rides: A Drive Through Time brings the past forward with famous cars that were like family friends on shows like The Dukes of Hazzard, Scooby-Doo and The Love Bug. Today, they are nostalgic reminders of what pop culture was like “back in the day.” Geoffrey Mark, The Walking Encyclopedia of Classic Hollywood, is our guest.

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In this episode, we visit with Mark Greene, Founder of the Cars Yeah podcast. You've heard Mark on American Road Trip Talk over the years, sharing his passion for cars and car culture. Listen for information about exciting events and places to inspire the automotive enthusiast in you.

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The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival 2025 is underway in Washington state and frequent contributor Matt Shea joins us for his annual survey of the venues and activities that have made the monthlong event a great Pacific Northwest tradition.

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Amy Beadle, Marketing and Advertising Manager for Visit Springfield, returns with news of upcoming events that demonstrate why the Illinois Capital city is where “History Comes Alive.”

The 63rd Annual International Carillon Festival is coming May 22-25, 2025 at the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon. First held in 1962, the prestigious Festival has earned an unsurpassed tradition of presenting the world’s finest carillonists/carillonneurs.

Exclusive Route 66 Art Exhibition: Celebrating the Iconic Artwork of Bob Waldmire – Springfield native, nomadic hippie, gifted artist, and Route 66 icon! Located in The Pharmacy Art Gallery in downtown Springfield, Fridays and Saturdays July 2025-Decembe...

An emerging trend in the car collector world features vehicles reimagined by builders who bring famous marques into the 21st century including Mustang, Camaro, Shelby Cobra, Porsche 911, Broncos, Toyota Land Cruisers and others. Instead of building them exactly like they were in the 60s and 70s, these classic beauties have been given entirely new underpinnings. The chassis, drivetrains, engines (gas or electric), brakes and interior features make them faster, safer and easier to drive than the originals. Mark Greene, Founder of the Cars Yeah podcast, visits to talk about why this movement is becoming popular.

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Lucas, Kansas is preparing to host APRIL FOOLS-A-PALOOZA, a vibrant local art festival, where the town's artists and organizations come together to showcase their work. This event is held annually on April 1st and features open houses where visitors can meet and interact with artists in their studios. In addition, the Lucas Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting vendor booths at Lucas Community Center, where visitors can browse and buy. Erika Nelson joins us to talk about the community, its history and significance as an artistic mecca.

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Take a ferry ride back in time to Michigan’s Mackinac Island, the car-free destination in the Straits of Mackinac where the Great Lakes Huron and Michigan meet. Here, the streets are lined with Victorian-era buildings, and getting around is by foot, horse-drawn carriage, or bicycle. In 100 Things to Do on Mackinac Island Before You Die, experienced travel writer and photographer Kath Usitalo helps you explore this historic island. She is our guest on this episode.

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Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985 after being replaced by the interstate highway system. Nevertheless, The Main Street of America’s hold on several generations of road-trippers, including people not yet born when the last section of U.S. 66 was bypassed, has endured. Thanks to civic and individual efforts, the legacy of our Mother Road retains its neon glow and monumental status. Joey Madia visits with a survey of sites where nostalgia and artistic expression fuel the imagination.

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Famous cars owned (or driven) by famous people: how could they disappear? An aura of mystery shrouds the fate of some legendary autos; all with a unique story to tell that nevertheless remains incomplete without sure knowledge of their whereabouts. Classic car aficionado Karl Petry guests with strange accounts of phantom rides that may be out of sight but are definitely not out of mind. American Road Trip Talk airs Fridays at 1:00 pm Pacific on 1150 KKNW Seattle and 1150kknw.com

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For Valentine’s Day, we include a bonus episode for your enjoyment. Suzanne Mitchell joins us as co-host, having discovered towns whose name says it all. Then we acknowledge the Commonwealth of Virginia for their legendary slogan that made marketing history.

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On Valentine’s Day, we turn to our friend and regular contributor Matt Shea for examples of romantic artistic creations to be found at various locations around America. They offer proof that love is all around us if we just know where to look.

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“California, Here We Come!” The Ricardos and Mertzes began their cross-country drive to the Golden State on the January 10, 1955 episode of I Love Lucy. What could possibly go wrong? Suffice it to say, hilarity ensued. This week, Geoffrey Mark aka The Walking Encyclopedia of Hollywood History visits with a trove of information about Lucy, Desi, Fred, Ethyl and one of the most famous road trips in television history.

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This week, we tackle the topic of how to form a mutually trusting relationship with your auto mechanic. Tony Clemente, owner of Silver Lake Auto Service in Belleville, New Jersey is our guest. Tony provides top-flight service to a loyal clientele that puts a premium on his expertise and experience. What does every customer have a right to expect from an automotive service provider and what does a mechanic have a right to expect in return? Tony has discovered plenty from 30 years in the trade. His insights and stories may cause you to rethink the way you do business...

Whether your tastes run to roughing it in the evergreen wild, packing up the RV for a long weekend trip or indulging in the rustic luxury of “glamping,” wintertime in Western Washington is no impediment to all the thrills you can discover on the open road. In this episode, Matt Shea is back with news of several resorts that put you in close touch with nature and offer year-round recreational opportunities to rugged individualists and families alike.

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"Throw Me Something, Mister!" This phrase is famous in Bayou country; it is what people say as they get caught up in the Mardi Gras spirit. On this edition of American Road Trip Talk, you’ll learn why this is the perfect time to plan a visit to the land of “lagniappe” and see for yourself why the people, parades and special events in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou are tough to beat. Cody A. Gray, President & CEO of Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Tourism, is our guest.

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This week’s episode features historic Springfield, Illinois and another star turn for Amy Beadle, Marketing Manager of the Springfield Illinois Convention & Visitors Bureau. Tune in or download and hear about events planned for 2025 in the Land of Lincoln. The 63rd International Carillon Festival, held in beautiful Washington Park, will be moving to Memorial Day Weekend this year. Springfield is also gearing up for the 16th Annual History Comes Alive season June 6 – August 10 with live history programming for 10 weeks. In addition, Springfield boasts nearly 40 things to see, do and eat along Route 66. Join us for a busy show!

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Our first episode of 2025 is a tribute to Jimmy Carter, America’s 39th President and beloved citizen of Plains, Georgia. Erika Nelson joins us to share her memories of visiting the church where Mr. Carter taught Sunday School as well as her appreciation for the people in Plains and the diverse modes of living to be found in rural Georgia.

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Our last episode of 2024 features Mark Greene of Cars Yeah fame with In Memoriam tributes to four car culture legends who passed away this year. Also, we offer a retrospective on Mark’s successful podcasting career as owner and host of Cars Yeah as he slows his roll and hands over the wheel to a new host. Over the past ten and a half years, Mark has talked with over 2,550 Inspiring Automotive Enthusiasts™, sharing their lives, careers, businesses, and ideas.

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Cameo Waters, Tourism Director of Jonesborough, Tennessee is our guest this week. Rich in regional history, Jonesborough attracts heritage tourism because of its status as Tennessee's oldest town and its proud architectural tradition, thanks to local historic preservation efforts. Among the landmarks is the Chester Inn, built in 1797, which still stands impressively downtown. Beyond all that, the small hospitable city is known as The Storytelling Capital of the World!

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What seemed like good ideas at the time to motor moguls in Detroit and other car capitals sometimes turned out to be star-crossed cars that were so unpopular, they have become infamous legends in their own right. It wasn’t just the Edsel or Yugo either. Many famous brands have suffered in the marketplace as the result of wayward imagination and misbegotten technology. Karl Petry, classic car and auto industry aficionado, is our guest and he has numerous examples to share. Oh, the inanity!

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In this encore episode, we talk with Destiny Egley, an authority on Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. Open year-round, the city has become a popular resort location, noted for its five hot pools suitable for bathing and featuring a turbulent inner tube run coursing through part of the town.

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Erika Nelson, when she is not gracing the American landscape with her popular art projects, curates the Worlds Largest Collection of the Worlds Smallest Versions of the Worlds Largest Things. “Roadside Yuletide” is a phrase we coined to describe public monuments erected for when ‘Tis the Season. They are seen around the country. Erika shares about several of the best. (encore presentation originally aired November 25, 2022)

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Seattle and Puget Sound are shaking off the effects of a bomb cyclone, undeterred in their preparations for Thanksgiving weekend and the traditional kickoff of the Christmas holiday season. Matt Shea, a frequent contributor to American Road Trip Talk, stops by with his detailed report on a variety of ceremonies and activities that offer family-friendly options for celebrating the “most wonderful time of the year.”

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Bodega Bay in California found immortality as the setting for Alfred Hitchcock’s natural horror-thriller, The Birds (1963) and continues to draw cinephiles, Hitchcock fans and curiosity seekers by the thousands more than 60 years later. The seaside village combines laid-back charm with the echoes of its cinematic past and permanent association with Hollywood’s Master of Suspense. Geoffrey Mark guests with stories and perspective regarding the area, the film, the stars and the man who conjured terror on the wing.

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From It Happened One Night to The Grapes of Wrath to Easy Rider to Thelma and Louise, some of the most iconic films ever made celebrate the dynamics of memorable characters taking to the open road. On this edition of American Road Trip Talk, we visit with classic Hollywood expert Geoffrey Mark to get the inside story of movies that took audiences on a vicarious ride to destiny.

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Jamie Jensen, seasoned road trip warrior and author of Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures On America’s Two-Lane Highways, is our guest for an exploration of Highway US-2 in Washington state. Listen and learn more about 325 miles of some of the finest scenery the Pacific Northwest has to offer from someone who knows whereof he speaks.

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For our pre-Halloween episode, author and researcher Joey Madia joins us again; this time with a compilation of spectral thrills straight from the Mother Road! “Supernatural 66” is his term for a paranormal tradition that dots all eight states of Route 66 landscape. Haunted hotels, theatres and museums will be the focus of our interview. Joey is a raconteur so relax, listen and enjoy his recounting of the sites and frights found on the Main Street of America.

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The RMS Queen Mary turned 90 on September 26th, 2024 and she has never looked more resplendent. Located in Long Beach, California since its purchase by the city in 1967, the legendary vessel is permanently moored as a tourist attraction, hotel, museum and event facility. As our guest Nicole Strickland can attest, the Queen Mary over the decades also has accrued a reputation for being among the most haunted ships in the world. Listen as Nicole shares her on-board encounters with the spirits of passengers and crew in addition to revealing historical facts and figures that explain why this nautical marvel is...

Matt Shea opens the creaky gates of Halloween Road Thrills in the Pacific Northwest! Everything from scary to fun for both kids to adults, he won't trick you into anything so you can treat yourself to some spooky Halloween excitement. These are the places you want to hit the road to in your Boo-ick or whatever you are driving!

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Fall is among us, which means many of the green trees over the summer are now turning to their Autumn colors as Summer ends. New York Vinnie has been on more road trips across the country than he can count, and he shares his experiences on where and what makes the best road trip adventures during the Fall season in Washington State and other parts of the country. He also provides the information you need to gear up and plan properly, no matter where you may be in the United States.

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In this edition of American Road Trip Talk, we pay a visit to the Totem Pole Trading Post in Rolla, Missouri before it closes its doors on September 30. Since its grand opening in 1933 and opening the current store in 1977 from what used to be a Shell gas station, the Totem Pole Trading Post stocks its shelves with handcrafted gifts and merchandise that represent the image of Route 66. The owner of the shop, Tim Jones, joins us to reminisce on the legacy of Totem Pole Trading Post as he heads into retirement.

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Brian Gushue is a man who has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and needs a wheelchair for his mobility. Despite his disability, Brian didn't let that hold him down and began taking road trips to the nation's NFL stadiums. He set a goal to attend 500 games and has quickly exceeded that goal. Find out more about his inspirational travel adventures in and between the stadiums as he joins us for this edition of American Road Trip Talk!

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While the Big Leaguers are busy rounding the bases, we’ll be rounding the MLB ballparks in road trips designed just for baseball fans. From New York to Los Angeles and everything in between, Timothy Malcolm takes plots out routes that makes the most out of every mile and keep everything easy for your planning needs in his book, “Baseball Road Trips: The Complete Guide to All the Ballparks, with Beer, Bites, and Sights Nearby”!

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A great road trip doesn’t have to be done entirely by automobile. In fact, some of the best views can only be witnessed by parking your vehicle along the scenic drives and stepping foot where your vehicle can’t go to make it to the best possible viewpoints. Today it is a ride along Michigan's famous Route M22 with outdoor writer Jim DuFresne author of "Trails of M22". One of America's great drives, Jim will let us know the best spots to get out of your car and immerse yourself in color as summer makes the change into fall...

Our guest for this episode is Amy Beadle, Marketing Manager of the Springfield Illinois Convention & Visitors Bureau. She has exciting news to share about the upcoming 23rd Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival. With a plethora of activities and venues to offer, this is one of the signature events celebrated every year in the Land of Lincoln. When putting Route 66 on glorious display, nobody does it better than the folks in Springfield!

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This week on American Road Trip Talk, meet New York Vinnie, filling in for Gary Mantz as he takes some time away from the show. In this edition, he chats with automotive adventurer Jeff Zurschmeide who took a road trip through America's Last Frontier in Alaska. It's much different than taking a road trip within the continental United States, and is an experience that should not be missed!

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In this episode, artist and frequent contributor Erika Nelson shares her deep appreciation of Art Cars. An art car is a vehicle that has had its appearance modified as an act of personal artistic expression. Among the highlights of our interview: Houston's Art Car Parade, Seattle’s art car inclusion in the Fremont Fair/Solstice event, Art Car World in Douglas, Arizona and Minnesota's passionate group of art car creators.

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47 years ago, Elvis Presley passed into history. The King of Rock and Roll “left the building” at the age of 42. Today, we remember his too-short life and celebrate his incredible legacy with Cory Cooper, widely regarded Elvis expert. In addition to Graceland and Tupelo, where else can fans of The King visit to pay homage? Cory has select recommendations to offer.

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On this edition of American Road Trip Talk, discover Louisiana's Cajun Bayou, just 35 miles south of New Orleans and home to the unapologetic Cajun culture of Lafourche Parish. The bayou stretches over 100 miles, flowing through communities and defining traditions. Festivals, charter fishing trips, tours through mysterious swamps, classic regional architecture and restaurants that offer you a chance to dine like a local: there is plenty to see and do "up the Bayou" and "down the Bayou." Our guests are Cody Gray and Ian Wallis from Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou tourism office.

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Matt Shea is the guest host of American Road Trip Talk this week. Listen as he interviews Kristen Brandel and Christa O’Brien, two ladies that are living their road trip dream by crossing the country in an RV. Their journey started June 3 in Florida; so far, they have traveled west and north to Washington state, experiencing a variety of popular RV resorts along the way and collecting plenty of good stories to share. You’ll hear some of the best and also get sound advice on planning a similar nomadic adventure of your own!

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Want to get far away from the noise and haste of daily life on your next vacation? Isle Royale National Park is a great destination for those seeking unspoiled beauty and unhurried adventure in the wild. Our guest is Jim DuFresne, a Michigan travel and outdoor expert who has been writing on where to go and what to do in the Great Lakes State for over 30 years.

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The AAA Route 66 Road Fest was held June 22-23, 2024 in Tulsa, Oklahoma and our guest, Joey Madia, was a featured speaker. If you were in attendance, lucky you! For the rest of us, Joey offers a vicarious experience of the event including sights and sounds, encounters with Mother Road experts and a brief recap of his “Weird 66” presentation.

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The great outdoors and western Washington are synonymous in the minds of fishers, hikers and campers who make the most of the mildest time of year. There are plenty of places you can enjoy for a couple of days or longer if you know where to look, reports our contributor, Matt Shea. These lakes and campgrounds are “little gems” in The Evergreen State and Matt has experienced many of them. In this episode, let him guide you to where you might find your piece (and peace) of paradise in sweet summertime.

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Cruising Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon from Cannon Beach to Gold Beach offers road-trippers a sizable stretch of scenic wonders and an opportunity to get acquainted with the easygoing hospitality of small towns along the way. Jessica Dunham, author of The OPEN ROAD: 50 BEST ROAD TRIPS in the USA, will be with us to share her enthusiasm for this famous route and details of several unique places for you to enjoy.

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“Rainbows end down that highway where ocean breezes blow,” according to The Grateful Dead. When Mark Greene of Cars Yeah fame fulfilled a road trip dream alongside Blake, his then 8 year-old son, the two adventurers bonded unforgettably as they basked in the glory of the open air. Their journey stretched 1,328 miles along Highway 101 and took 6 days to complete. As you hear the stories that Mark shares, take them as encouragement to bring your own dream on wheels to life!

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On Flag Day in America, we dedicate this episode to three sites that celebrate the story of the Star-Spangled Banner: Fort McHenry, the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail and a reference to the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House. Visitors have an opportunity to feel a personal connection with these venerable locations through a fuller understanding of their significance.

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Don’t you wish you could dine where legends of Hollywood’s Golden Age loved to meet, greet, drink and eat? Good news: you still can! In this episode, Geoffrey Mark, a “walking encyclopedia” of show business history, shares classic stories from Tinseltown and insights about what to expect if you make a pilgrimage to extant eateries where fine food and drink plus classy ambience have traditionally awaited a star-studded clientele. 

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In advance of the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, we feature The National D-Day Memorial, located in Bedford, VA. It has been called “a must visit for anyone interested in World War II or American military history." Though it serves as the national memorial for American D-Day veterans, its scope is international as expressed in the statement, "In Tribute to the valor, fidelity and sacrifice of Allied Forces on D-Day, June 6, 1944.” Our guest is President & CEO of the National D-Day Memorial Foundation, April Cheek-Messier.

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We often hear the phrase, “All gave some, some gave all.” Today’s episode is in honor of Memorial Day, dedicated to the brave Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice in wartime. Our guest, Matt Shea, a frequent contributor to this program, has researched the history of Memorial Day and will share some of what he discovered. In addition, Matt is going to tell us about various places you can visit in Western Washington where America’s fallen heroes will be solemnly remembered.

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In this episode, step into the world of Andrew Jackson, 7th President of the United States. History comes alive within the walls of The Hermitage, his magnificent house. Hear the story of this enigmatic figure and let your imagination wander through the rooms that witnessed his larger-than-life personality. Ann Dee McClane, Vice President, Marketing & Communications, Andrew Jackson Foundation | Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is our guest.

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Move over, Boomers! In American auto culture, the trend toward younger enthusiasts with upwardly mobile careers and a taste for the finer things in life has become increasingly evident. Mark Greene, host of the Cars Yeah podcast, reveals the dynamics behind the market for classic cars that newer generations find most appealing. (Encore Presentation)

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In this episode, meet Kyle Horvath, Director of Tourism for all of White Pine County, Nevada which includes Ely and the gateway community to Great Basin National Park, Baker. Listen and you will learn much about this four-season mountainous destination with a deep connection to the Silver State and American History that also maintains a strong appreciation for arts and culture, major events, and great outdoor recreational opportunities.

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Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California, Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road” and the “Main Street of America,” was one of the country’s major thoroughfares for nearly half a century. Route 66 became one of the most famous roads in America, having been popularized in American culture through books, songs, music, magazines, movies, and television shows…

The construction of the Interstate Highway System resulted in the eventual decline of Route 66, and correspondingly, many of the roadside attractions. Portions of the road have now been designated as National Scenic Byways or as “Historic Route 66” in several states i...

Planning a 2024 summer road trip? Our guest Amy Beadle is the marketing manager at the Springfield (Illinois) Convention and Visitors Bureau. In this episode, we hear about a plethora of events and venues that make Springfield a great place to visit. History comes alive in the Land Of Lincoln!

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The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival celebrates the glory of Spring and the abundant splendor of Mother Nature from April 1st to April 30th, 2024. In this episode, Matt Shea provides specifics regarding what you can expect and how to get maximum enjoyment from your experience at this dazzling Washington State destination.

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The Total Solar Eclipse of April 8, 2024 is approaching fast and Jamie Jensen, who is celebrating publication of the 10th Edition of his Road Trip USA travel guide, joins us to talk about the best cities and towns to view the celestial event.

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Henry Martyn Leland was an American machinist, inventor, engineer, and automotive entrepreneur. He founded the two premier American luxury automotive marques, Cadillac and Lincoln. His motto was, “Craftsmanship a creed, accuracy a law.” In this episode, we hear much about his determination and innovative genius from Karl Petry, a graduate of the Lincoln Technical Institute and admirer of Mr. Leland.

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Erika Nelson joins us to recount a pop-up show at TeePee Junction in Lawrence, Kansas. Erika responded to the “Hillbilly Halfwit”, Armando Minjarez responded to "La Salsa Man", and Mona Cliff responded to the teepees. The purpose was to examine caricatures of people in our roadside attractions and what they might mean to the traveling public.

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Mark Greene of Cars Yeah says, “For me an adventure drive is when you go off the freeway and onto the back roads, or no roads, out into the wilderness. Away from cities and on roads in unique locations where tourists rarely venture.” Mark is our guest and he has stories of remarkable men and women who have done it.

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Washington State has more than her fair share of small towns with plenty of charm to lure visitors away from the city life of Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma et al as well as from out-of-state to the natural beauty and town culture that offer a unique experience in each locale. Contributor Matt Shea has lots to share about these mellow destinations.

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Route 66 is a long story that is still being told. The glory of The Mother Road endures with a resilience underscored by her responsiveness to movements of not only the countless people she has carried but also of turbulent American racial history. Joey Madia discusses “Sundown Towns” that once posed a menacing threat to African-Americans who traveled with the burden of bigotry in mind. (Encore Presentation)

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Seaside Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast. Founded in 1937, the aquarium is privately owned and the descendants of some of the founders still are active in its operation. Manager Keith Chandler fills us in on the star attractions and many activities awaiting you at a legendary place in Oregon’s oldest resort town. 

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