Douglas Green, also known as Ranger Doug, discusses his experiences as a member of the Western music group Riders in the Sky and his love for Western music and culture. He shares stories about playing at the Grand Ole Opry, the history of the song 'Don't Fence Me In,' and the figure of the singing cowboy. He also talks about the connection between Western movies, TV shows, and music, and the impact of Western music on different generations. Green highlights the importance of preserving and promoting Western music and the artists who contributed to its legacy.

Open Range is a classic Western film directed by Kevin Costner. It follows two mysterious and steely-eyed strangers, Charlie and Boss Spearman, who are free grazers in the last days of the frontier west. The film explores the clash between law and lawlessness, as well as the authenticity of the heroes and the Western setting. It also delves into the concept of masculinity and the strong silent type. The gunfight scenes in the film are particularly notable. Overall, Open Range is considered one of the best Westerns and a favorite among many viewers.

Also, with a special guest appearance is my four year old, on a mad hunt to find her Barbie.

This week's WednesdayWestern is “The Old Way” (2023), a horrible movie featuring Nic Cage. We start with the connection between 'The Old Way' and the tragic incident on the set of the movie 'Rust', which had the same gun handler. We also delve into Nic Cage's acting style, known as 'Nouveau Shamanic', and highlight some of his iconic performances.

Full article appears on The Blaze.

Nathan Dahlstrom writes Western-tinged Young Adult fiction under the pen name S.J. Dahlstrom. In an era where libraries have allowed the creep of ideology to spoil books, he delivers characters and scenes with backbone and wonder. Align interviewer Kevin Ryan chatted with Nathan at Mercury Studios, headquarters of Blaze Media. You can find the entire profile here (LINK) They discuss masculinity, boyhood, and storytelling through the lens of the American West. As well as the importance of writing children's books with a focus on values and ethics, The Bible's influence on storytelling, and "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" and its themes of roughness, politicians, and culture. Nathan shares how he became a writer after realizing most books for kids were about magic creatures, unlike his own experiences. He tells us about the need for apprenticeship, as a writer and a man, as well as the need to pursue a meaningful life through hard work and perseverance. All of it is included in Nathan’s philosophy of “Wilder good.” He tells stories the way people used to, before art and literature became corrupted by identitarian whimsy. The Wall Street Journal included his work on their list of gritty novels. And rightfully so. Nathan’s books offer wise mentors who transform weak adults into parents so that they can lead their children to wisdom. Strong families, devoted to their unity. In Nathan’s case, this mentorship was also creative, and professional. His friendship John R. Erickson, author of the “Hank the Cowdog” series. John Erickson taught Nathan how to multiply his gift, although first he had to find it. He is devoted to this up-building, where love is a matter of building someone up. He employs this in many ways — including his job as a creative writing teacher at a middle school. As Nathan says in the interview, the ideal man contains a mixture of rough exterior and inner intellect, a mix of inner and outer qualities, like Teddy Roosevelt and Winston Churchill. Although, as Nathan points out, Jesus Christ is the ultimate man, an intellectual with a carpenter's vocation. Jesus' teachings and the concept of "Wilder good" as a philosophy.

Ryan Vaughan, CEO of Anderson Bean Boots, discusses the history and unique features of the boot and the company. The Rios family has been making boots since 1853 and settled in South Texas to take advantage of the fertile valley along the Rio Grande River. Anderson Bean boots are known for their high-quality materials and construction, making them durable and comfortable. The brand works closely with retailers to design unique boots that cater to their customers' preferences. Anderson Bean boots are popular among competitive horse trainers and ranchers who rely on them as tools for their work. The brand's commitment to supporting local retailers and building strong relationships with suppliers sets them apart in the industry. 00:00 Introduction and Favorite Western Movies 00:59 The History and Meaning of Rio of Mercedes 09:02 First Experience with Anderson Bean Boots 12:36 The Origins of Anderson Bean Boots 15:38 The Durability and Functionality of Anderson Bean Boots 25:53 Where to Find Anderson Bean Boots 27:51 The Mission and Values of Anderson Bean Boots 29:27 Closing Remarks

Father Vince Lampert discusses the ministry of exorcism and the importance of understanding it as an act of light and redemption. He shares the challenges faced by exorcists and the need for priests to prioritize their vocation over busyness. Father Lampert emphasizes the role of parish priests and the distinction between their responsibilities and those of exorcists. He explains the increase in exorcisms and the training process for exorcists. Father Lampert also discusses the importance of avoiding occult practices and superstitions, and the need for faith in combating the forces of evil. In this conversation, Fr. Vince Lampert discusses the power of confession and reconciliation, emphasizing that it is a moment of redemption with Christ himself. He explains the significance of the parable of the house of spirits and the importance of inviting God into our lives. Fr. Lampert also explores the role of Mary in exorcism, highlighting her humility as a virtue that cancels out the vice of pride. He delves into the fall of Lucifer and the elevation of human nature through the Incarnation. The conversation concludes with insights on the power of prayer, surrendering to God's will, and the impact of technology on the demonic crisis.

In this interview, Andrew Patrick Nelson once again proves his title as the Evangelist of Western Movies. He takes us on a deep dive into the classic Western film 'Stagecoach' and its impact on the genre. Associate Professor at University of Utah, he guides students through the badlands full of robbers and coyotes, revealing the props and scenery of the fiction at play. He’s written extensively about these complexities, including the two journals he founded: “The Popular West” and “Reel West.” He also co-hosts a podcast dedicated to Westerns titled “How the West Was 'Cast.” The conversation covers the film's iconic characters, the relationship between John Ford and John Wayne, the influence of Ernest Haycox's writing, and the significance of the film in cinematic history. 00:00 Introduction to 'Stagecoach' and Its Significance 03:08 The Relationship Between John Ford and John Wayne 07:15 Ernest Haycox's Influence on the Cinematic Adaptation 10:16 Character Analysis: Peacock and Other Characters