American Miles: A Roadtrip Podcast

Josh Colvin
American Miles: A Roadtrip Podcast

Interviews, nostalgia, music, small-town talk and roadside attractions. Join me for a trip through the heart of America.

Episodes

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Interstate 95: Masha Hamilton Interviews

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through the heart of America. In a special feature, writer Masha Hamilton shares interviews with travelers from various rest stops along Interstate 95. The conversations explore American values and reveal a tapestry of resilience, optimism, and connection. In this episode Josh also talks to Trucker Andy, and Josh reads his own story called Teenage Travel Agent. Poet Matthew Layne stops by to offer a short reading of his wonderful poem. Later Josh makes a call to the town of Niantic, CT to talk to Book Barn owner Randi White. Finally the show closes with a song from the red-hot band Texas Hill. 05:51 Trucker Andy 07:08 Storytelling: Teenage Travel Agent 12:25 I-95 Rest Stop Conversations with Masha Hamilton 51:30 "If Not" poem by Matthew Layne 53:14 Small Town Talk: Niantic CT 58:55 "Easy on the Eyes" by Texas Hill
    1h 4m

  2. 15 JUN

    Crap From The Past: Ron Gerber Interview

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through 70s and 80s pop music with feature guest, disc jockey Ron "Boogiemonster" Gerber. The conversation delves into the evolution of music over the decades—from the Rolling Stones to U2, the underrated talents of artists like The Carpenters, and the impact of disco. This episode also includes Josh's story about Dwayne the Rock Johnson, and writer Vince Roman's essay Be Now Be Now. The show ends with Sonny Gullege's song Go Be Free. Please note: Here is a link to the Spotify playlist of songs to accompany this episode. 01:56 Trucker Andy 08:09 Storytelling: Who's Afraid of Dwayne the Rock Johnson 16:53 Crap form the Past: Ron Gerber's Journey 24:51 The Dichotomy of Music: Good vs. Bad 28:28 Decades of Music: A Personal Perspective 33:28 Disco: A Love-Hate Relationship 34:55 The Evolution of Disco Music 39:15 The Impact of Disco on Other Genres 44:54 The Transition from Vinyl to CDs 50:58 Defining Perfect Songs 55:31 Musical Fads and Trends 57:10 Be Now Be Now essay by Vince Roman 01:02:21 Go Be Free by Sonny Gullege
    1h 9m

  3. 31 MAY

    Outlaw Treasure Hunter: WC Jameson Interview

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through the world of treasure hunting with renowned treasure hunter and author W.C. Jameson. The conversation explores the allure of buried treasure, notable finds, and the ethics and risks involved in treasure hunting. The episode also features a road trip story by award-winning author John Drake Robinson and the song Trumpets from the artist Pennyfloater. 02:25 Trucker Andy 05:33 Storytelling: Beware the Alcatraz Reject 10:13 The Thrill of the Hunt: W.C. Jameson's Journey 19:32 Techniques and Tools of Treasure Hunting 29:10 The Ethics and Risks of Treasure Hunting 37:18 The Art of Treasure Hunting: Tips and Techniques 42:14 Writing and Storytelling: The Journey of an Author 44:02 Excerpt WC Jameson's Song "I Dug the Postholes" 45:40 The Good Badass Samaritan by John Drake Robinson 56:11 Song by Pennyfloater
    1h 3m

  4. 17 MAY

    Route 66: Jim Hinckley Interview

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through Route 66, exploring its rich history and best stops. The conversation features Route 66 historian Jim Hinckley, who shares insights about the highway's legacy, its international appeal, and the communities along the route. The episode also highlights the small town of Amboy, California, through the eyes of town manager Ken Large, who discusses the town's unique story and ongoing revival efforts. Musical guest Lloyd Jones adds a bluesy touch to the episode, celebrating the spirit of Americana. 02:20 Trucker Andy 06:35 Storytelling: Middle School Class Clownery 11:08 The Legacy and Evolution of Route 66 20:33 Nostalgia and the Cultural Significance of Route 66 22:32 Hidden Gems and Unique Stops Along Route 66 25:46 Preservation Challenges and Future of Route 66 27:14 Exploring Route 66 Diners and Cafes 29:05 Iconic Motels Along Route 66 30:56 Unique Gift Shops and Museums 32:53 Revitalizing Communities on Route 66 34:36 Musical References to Route 66 35:55 The Evolution of Route 66 Radio 36:57 Small-Town Talk Amboy, CA 47:58 Future Visions for Amboy 50:30 Song by Lloyd Jones
    55 min

  5. 4 MAY

    The Ball is Wild: Josh Sharpe Interview

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through the heart of America. After checking in with Trucker Andy, he explores the world of pinball with Josh Sharp, the president of the International Flipper Pinball Association. The conversation delves into the magic of pinball, the competitive scene, and the resurgence of this beloved game. Then famous humorist Sean of the South reads his essay A Few Things I Love About America. Later he visits with Michigan Rattlers lead singer Graham Young to talk about the creative process and small town vs big city living. The show closes with the Michigan Rattlers song Evergreen. Chapters 02:20 Trucker Andy 6:20 Storytelling: Falcons and Firebirds 12:17 Exploring the Competitive Pinball World 23:50 The Art and Science of Pinball Design 29:59 The Resurgence of Pinball in Modern Culture 30:29 The Evolution of Pinball Games 34:04 Nostalgia and Small Town Memories 40:35 Interview w/ Graham Young from the Michigan Rattlers 41:28 The Journey of a Musician 50:50 Evergreen by Michigan Rattlers
    57 min

  6. 24 APR

    Vegas Player: Anthony Curtis Interview

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through the world of professional gambling with legendary gambler Anthony Curtis (from the Las Vegas Advisor,) who shares insights on strategies, team dynamics, Las Vegas, and the realities of making a living through gambling. The podcast also explores the nostalgic charm of drive-in theaters, featuring an interview with Jen Spalding from the Motor-Vu Drive-In in Idaho Falls, discussing the appeal of drive-ins, what films are most popular, and whether people still try to sneak in. Josh also talks with trucker Andy Patterson, and at the end of the show there's a great song from Americana star Melissa Carper. 2:15 Trucker Andy 5:45 Playing the Ponies Story 12:05 The Journey of a Professional Gambler 24:10 The Art and Science of Gambling 32:30 Strategies for Success in Gambling 34:48 Big Wins and Losses in Gambling 39:10 The Evolution of Vegas and Its Culture 42:54 Navigating Vegas: Tips and Recommendations 45:05 Nostalgia and the Drive-In Movie Experience 49:37 The Appeal of Drive-Ins in Modern Times 52:15 Challenges and Growth of Drive-In Theaters 58:00 Programming and Movie Selection Strategies 1:05:40 Somewhere Between Texas and Tennessee
    1h 11m

  7. 13 APR

    Ways of Living: A.M. Hickman Interview

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through the heart of America, exploring themes of culture, travel, and personal stories. The conversation features trucker Andy Patterson sharing tales from the road, and an interview with writer A.M. Hickman, who reflects on his life and the duality of American culture. The episode also delves into the romanticism of hitchhiking, the challenges of modern travel, and a love letter to America. There's also a Small Town Talk call to Littleton, New Hampshire, and a great new song from the Americana artist Hunter Gatherer. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to American Miles 02:02 Breaker 1-9 with Andy Patterson 05:27 Storytelling: King of the Hard Cases 13:02 Interview with A.M. Andy Hickman: A Writer's Journey 17:54 The Duality of American Culture 27:10 Hitchhiking: A Journey of Discovery 32:09 Traveling Beyond Automobiles 34:30 The Relay Race of Life 37:19 Resignation and Reflection on American Identity 39:40 Travel Recommendations and Personal Favorites 42:00 The Impact of Modern Convenience 43:30 Small Town Talk: Littleton, NH 50:50 A.M. Hickman Reads Excerpt from Deep Canyon Elders 01:00 Song: The Big Empty by Hunter Gatherer
    1h 6m

  8. 5 APR

    Cannonball Run: Brock Yates Jr. Interview

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through the heart of America, featuring conversations with truck driver Andy Patterson and professional driver and race organizer, Brock Yates Jr. who raced in the first ever Cannonball Run. Josh asks Andy about the three ways truckers use their headlights to signal drivers and what drivers can do to stay safe around trucks. Brock Yates Jr. talks about that first ever Cannonball Run and about the accuracy of the Burt Reynolds movie based on the race. He also talks about his One Lap of America event and he gives Josh some tips for teaching his 16-year-old daughter to drive. Later, author and sports journalist, Jay Busbee checks in to read his wonderful tribute to the late Jimmy Buffet, a story called Partygoers Depart but the Party Goes On. (Read more of Jay's writing here as well. ) Finally, award-winning country singer Joey Canyon shares his song Real Strong Stuff with American Miles listeners. 00:00 Introduction to American Miles 05:47 Understanding Trucking Communication 08:00 Storytelling: UFOs and Exploding Toothpaste 12:09 Driving Safety Tips and Insights 17:56 Brock Yates Jr.'s Journey in Motorsports 24:08 The Evolution of Road Racing 29:52 Driving Training and Safety Education 35:39 Demonstrating Driving Skills 36:09 Choosing a Safe Vehicle for Young Drivers 37:08 Memorable First Date at High Speed 38:57 Exploring America's Best Driving Roads 40:41 Nostalgic Trends and Fashion from Youth 41:38 Favorite Small Towns in America 43:05 Ideal Vehicles for Cross-Country Road Trips 44:49 A Toast to Jimmy Buffett 45:04 The Essence of the Jimmy Buffett Experience 47:01 The Melancholy Side of Margaritaville 49:40 Passing Wisdom to Future Generations 52:03 Breathe In, Breathe Out: Life Lessons from Buffett
    1h 3m

  9. 26 MAR

    Roads and Rivers: Neal Moore Interview

    In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin takes listeners on a journey through the heart of America, featuring conversations with truck driver Andy Patterson and author and adventurer Neal Moore who crossed the entire United States by canoe. Josh asks Andy for stories from the trucking life and also whether truckers still use CB radios. Neal shares the inspiration behind his voyage, daily life on the water, and the lessons learned from nature and human interactions along the way. He reflects on the liberating feeling of minimalism while traveling, and the beauty of encounters with diverse individuals. For the Small Town Talk segment Josh calls Madison, Indiana for a discussion with local, Michael Fortunato, owner of Crawdaddy Music Center. They discuss Madison's rich history and vibrant music scene. Later, Neal Moore reads an excerpt from his book, Down the Mississippi and for the Songwriter Series, Dan "Big Hands" Colvin performs his song "Margarita." 00:00 Introduction to American Miles and Neil Moore's Journey 02:00 Insights from Trucker Andy: Life on the Road 08:30 The Loneliness of Trucking and Stories from the Road 11:40 Storytelling: Tooty and a Nip Off That Tipple 16:33 Neil Moore's Epic Canoe Journey Across America 27:01 Challenges and Encounters in the Wild 34:08 Reflections on Nature and the Journey's Beauty 36:00 The Beauty of Nature and Human Connection 38:52 Living Unplugged: A Journey of Minimalism 42:00 Reflections on Small Towns and Personal Experiences 42:56 Exploring Madison, Indiana: A Local Perspective 54:57 The Wisdom of Wildness: Reading from Down the Mississippi 59:00 Big Hands Colvin: Hey Margarita
    1h 7m
  • 9 Episodes

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Interviews, nostalgia, music, small-town talk and roadside attractions. Join me for a trip through the heart of America.

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