Episodes

  • 43: A Southern Sojourn: Savannah’s Flavors and Phantoms
    Jul 31 2024

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    Have you ever wondered what makes Savannah, Georgia, a haven for both food lovers and history buffs? This week, we're serving up a delicious slice of southern charm as we take you on our unforgettable journey through the historic streets of Savannah. From savoring the unbeatable fried chicken at Mrs. Wilkes' Boarding House to discovering the hidden lodging gem tucked within, our culinary adventure sets the stage for all the local flavors we encountered. Cruise with us through the ethereal beauty of Bonaventure Cemetery, where ancient gravestones and majestic oak trees tell their own stories from the past.

    But our exploration doesn't stop there. Join us as we recount our spine-tingling ghost tour, capturing the quirks of spirits on film and uncovering the chilling tales behind mysterious windows. We'll also reflect on the profound echoes of the Civil War that still resonate in Savannah and Franklin, Tennessee, offering a unique perspective on these historically significant locations. As we wrap up, we'll share our favorite coffee picks, highlighting the simple joys of a well-made cup amidst such rich historical backdrops. This episode promises a captivating blend of history, hauntings, and heartwarming moments, perfect for anyone who cherishes the enchanting charm of the South.

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    25 mins
  • 42: Building a Heartfelt Mosaic in the Heart of Savannah
    Jul 24 2024

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    Ever wonder what it would look like if an average Joe competed in the Olympics alongside professional athletes? Join us as we kick off this fun and insightful episode with a hilariously off-the-rails intro and a provocative thought experiment that highlights just how extraordinary Olympic athletes truly are. We then shift gears to compare the sugar content in Coca-Cola versus sweet tea, revealing some shocking truths about our favorite sugary drinks. Our journey continues with a heartwarming project at the Wesley Center in Savannah, where we helped local children build a beautiful mosaic.

    Next, we explore the beauty of imperfection in nature and life, using the gentle curve of tree branches as a metaphor for the unexpected quirks that shape our stories. From wedding mishaps to road trip adventures, it’s the unplanned moments that leave the biggest impressions. We share personal anecdotes, including a groom forgetting his song lyrics and the creative process of an artist who can transform simple lines into masterpieces. Amidst this reflection, we recount our battle with Georgia's notorious no-see-ums while working on the mosaic project.

    Finally, we discuss the ideal times to visit Savannah, Georgia, focusing on the pleasant weather in November and April. We touch on how weather impacts activities, drawing a parallel with the Masters golf tournament held in April. With some light-hearted advice on staying active and a nod to the Olympic athletes, we wrap up by expressing our gratitude for sharing this wonderful Wednesday in Savannah with you. Don’t miss this whimsical yet profound episode that celebrates the joy of sports, the sweetness of life, and the beauty in our imperfections.

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    29 mins
  • 41: Savannah Smiles: Heartfelt Hospitality
    Jul 17 2024

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    Have you ever wondered how the charm of Southern mansions compares to the bustling housing market of California? Join us as we pick up our cliffhanger tour with youth pastor Scott Cleveland in the beautiful streets of Savannah, Georgia. From the opulent homes on Skidaway Island to reflections on real estate prices, we traverse the scenic landscapes and embrace the luxurious living that's unique to the South. Plus, you'll hear a personal update about dealing with the sweltering heat while replacing an air conditioning unit—it's all about the highs and lows of Southern life!

    Ever felt the profound impact of a small gesture? Inspired by Walker Hayes' touching song about his friend Craig, we explore how acts of kindness and hospitality can weave stronger communities. We share our personal stories and challenges in being hospitable, emphasizing the magic of engaging with neighbors. Tune in for practical advice and heartfelt anecdotes that show how opening your home and heart can lead to meaningful connections and transformative experiences.

    Experience the camaraderie and fun at the Wesley Center in downtown Savannah, where we engage in a frenzy of activities like cleaning and building shelves. We dive into our DISC test results, laugh over fashion blunders, and reminisce about nostalgic moments with friends. From humorous tales about purchasing Teva sandals to Scott's unforgettable cheerleader outfit, this episode is packed with laughter and poignant reflections. Whether you're curious about contrasting ministry opportunities or simply want to relive cherished memories, this journey through Savannah is not one to miss!

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    34 mins
  • 40: Savannah, GA: Southern Tales: Laughs, Treats, and Tunes
    Jul 10 2024

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    We have been in the Northeast for a long time. We just spent the coldest day of the trip in the motorhome and we are discovering the Oasis that is Savannah, GA. In this episode we take you to Skidaway Island and meet a new friend, Scott Coleman. Come with us as we begin our adventures in the Deep South!!!

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    31 mins
  • 39: Nostalgia, Dollar Stores, and Parenting Hacks: East Coast Road Trip Chronicles
    Jul 3 2024

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    Ever wondered how a debate about dollar stores could spark nostalgia and practical tips for budget-savvy parenting? Join Scott Hawkins and Andrew Gaer on the Kings of the Road podcast as we recount our latest East Coast road trip, filled with the simple joys and quirky adventures that make travel memorable. From the laughter over a lunch at Subway to the mundane yet oddly satisfying task of dumping the motorhome's waste tank, you'll feel like you're right there with us. We'll even let you in on why stopping at dollar stores for movie snacks is a parenting hack you'll want to steal.

    What’s the best way to enjoy fried chicken? We take you on a hilarious and heartfelt journey through our fast food memories, from the perfect Popeye's experience to some not-so-great KFC stops. As night falls in Fayetteville, North Carolina, the challenges of RV travel become all too real with freezing temperatures and carbon monoxide concerns. But our adventurous spirit can't be dampened as we visit the Special Ops Museum, proving that even the toughest nights have their silver linings.

    Museums and laundry—two things that sound mundane but are anything but on our podcast. We share our newfound appreciation for museums, contrasting youthful impatience with the curiosity of adulthood. You’ll laugh at our attempts to keep a child's attention amidst historical artifacts and learn our secrets for efficient post-vacation laundry. And just when you think the journey is over, a light-hearted mention of Myrtle Beach and the nostalgic glow of Hooters' orange lights signal that more adventures are just around the corner.

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    34 mins
  • Detour: Natural Disasters: Surviving and Smiling through Nature's Tests
    Jun 26 2024

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    Ever wondered how our childhoods shape our perspectives on natural disasters? Join us as we reminisce about our nonchalant attitudes towards earthquakes growing up in California and compare them to the fears faced by our friends in hurricane and tornado-prone states. From hilarious stories of our summer adventures in Michigan to the nostalgic mention of a favorite burrito called "the big one," we kick off with a reflection on state pride and the beauty of our diverse homeland. We invite you to share your quirky and unique stories about your home state, adding to the colorful tapestry of our collective experiences.

    Have you ever considered the psychological toll of living in an area prone to natural disasters? We delve into the unsettling realities of facing earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Hear firsthand accounts of a Category 1 hurricane in Birmingham and a historic tornado outbreak in Alabama, and learn about the distinct contrasts between the forewarning provided by storms and the suddenness of earthquakes. Through these personal stories, we reveal the preparedness each disaster necessitates and the psychological weight they carry, offering a deeper understanding of how these events shape our lives and memories.

    What trade-offs do people make when choosing where to live? We explore how natural disasters impact daily life across different regions, from the persistent threats in the southern United States to the less frequent but equally significant earthquakes and wildfires in California. Through our own experiences, we highlight the humorous ways Californians react to earthquakes, complete with geology jokes and lighthearted anecdotes. Tune in to laugh with us and perhaps even see your own region in a new light, as we reflect on the weather-related challenges that shape our perceptions and priorities.

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    29 mins
  • 38: New Jersey and Philly: Wit Whiz Wisdom and Travel Tales
    Jun 5 2024

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    Ever felt the thrill of navigating the bustling streets of Philadelphia, only to find yourself face-to-face with the legendary Pat's King of Steaks? This episode whisks you away to the birthplace of the iconic Philly cheesesteak, unraveling the mystique behind its unique ordering process. From mastering the local lingo—like saying "whiz wit" for cheese whiz and onions—to experiencing the electrifying atmosphere, we share our heartfelt memories of this flavorful adventure. Food isn't just sustenance for us; it's a gateway to understanding and appreciating the rich tapestry of American culture.

    Engage with us as we dissect the intense rivalry between Pat's and Geno's Philly Cheesesteaks. It's not just about picking sides—provolone or cheese whiz?—but about delving deep into the culinary traditions that fuel these local loyalties. We share anecdotes about how these preferences spark lively conversations with Philly natives and ponder whether these delicious treats are daily indulgences or cherished special-occasion meals. Drawing from our own experiences with regional favorites like In-N-Out burgers, we uncover the universality of food in forging connections.

    Our adventure doesn't stop there. Hit the road with us for some fast food hacks and regional discoveries, like the genius of adding a hash brown to a McDonald's breakfast sandwich. Relive the charm of Atlantic City's quirky shops, including a memorable stop at Condom Kingdom, and savor our tales of road trips filled with card games and laughter. The episode wraps up with a delightful mix of confusion and banter at dinner, reminding us all that the best travel stories are those shared with friends. So grab a cheesesteak, sit back, and let us take you on a journey that's as humorous as it is heartwarming.

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    33 mins
  • 37: Atlantic City Tales: Mob Myths, Movies, and Indoor Euchre
    May 29 2024

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    Ever wondered if Las Vegas was actually the mob's second shot at building an entertainment paradise? On this lively episode of Kings of the Road, we take you back to our unforgettable 2004 journey to Atlantic City. From Andrew's vivid diary entries capturing our raw, unfiltered moments to the quirky traffic challenges of New Jersey, we keep it real with all the strong language and hilarious mishaps that made the trip so memorable. We also toss around the idea of inviting you, our listeners, to defend your states in future episodes—New Jersey, South Dakota, Florida, we're looking at you.

    Feeling nostalgic for those old VHS tapes and family movie nights? You're not alone! Scott shares his recent experience of re-watching "Oliver!" and the unexpected dark themes that spooked his daughter, making us rethink the movies we loved as kids. We also revisit "The Pirates of Penzance," discovering just how peculiar it seems through adult eyes. Expect laughs and surprises as we dig into those childhood classics and the sometimes shocking content we never noticed before.

    And let’s not forget our Atlantic City escapade! Despite the high casino betting minimums and dreary weather that had us playing Euchre indoors, the boardwalk still offered some charming moments. Plus, we delve into the curious connections between Atlantic City and Las Vegas, pondering whether the latter was a second attempt by mobsters to create the ultimate entertainment mecca. Along the way, we chat about modern slang like "riz" and "skibbity," and their amusing links to places like Ohio. Strap in for a blend of nostalgia, travel anecdotes, and cultural musings that promises to be both enlightening and entertaining.

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    38 mins