American Miles: A Roadtrip Podcast

In this episode, host Josh Colvin interviews writer Sherman Alexie, exploring his writing, upbringing, and the cultural significance of basketball in Native American life. They discuss poverty, college, nostalgia, and fame.

Also in this episode, Josh calls Trucker Andy to ask about his love of the open road, and then Josh reads his story "The Right Kind of Dog." Later in the show Sherman reads his essay "Blue Light Special."

Finally the show closes with a great song, "Snowed In" by the Droptines.

02:30 —Trucker Andy

05:40— Storytelling: The Right Kind of Dog

10:50 —Song: "Soon" by Big Hands Colvin

13:00 —Sherman Alexie Interview

15:00 —Sick Dog Story from Book

23:00 —Leaving the Reservation School

25:40 —Poverty

27:55 —Words and Violence

29:30 —Basketball

42:00 —College These Days

50:00 —Fame

54:00 —His Favorite Towns and Most Memorable Road Trip

58:30 —"Blue Light Special" by Sherman Alexie

1:02:50 —"Snowed In" by The Droptines

• Sherman Alexie: https://shermanalexie.substack.com/

• The Droptines: https://www.thedroptines.com/

Brad Carter's Snowplow Show

Todd Kashdan's Provoked Substack

Rambler Kane's Music

McKinney Hat Company

In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin sits down with author, storyteller, and longtime public radio voice Tom Bodett. Known for the iconic Motel 6 tagline “We’ll leave the light on for you,” Bodett reflects on authenticity in storytelling, the surprising journey that led him into radio, and why voices that feel familiar often resonate the deepest. The conversation also explores Bodett’s lifelong appreciation for working with his hands and the cultural importance of craftsmanship and practical skills.

Earlier in the show, Josh makes a call to Trucker Andy out on the road to talk about more truck-driving slang.

Josh also reads a story of his own about growing up in a house full of juvenile delinquents.

Later Tom Bodett returns to read his wonderful essay “Moose Hunting”

Finally, the show closes with a brilliant song from The Milk Carton Kids.

02:00—Trucker Andy Call
09:14 — Tom Bodett on the Power of Voice and Connection
27:54 — Optimism and Trust in Human Nature
37:27 — Getting Started: The Philosophy of Moving Slowly
39:21 — The Deep Roots of Making and Human Nature
41:48 — The Importance of Storytelling and Human Connection
44:42 — Favorite Songs and Small-Town Life
47:45 — "Moose Hunting" by Tom Bodett
52:31 — "A Friend Like a You" by  The Milk Carton Kids

• Moose Hunting by Tom Bodett
• Tom Bodett's Website
• HatchSpace
• The Milk Carton Kids

In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin makes a small-town call to the mining town of Goldfield, Nevada and their local radio station KGFN's Program Director, Carl Brownfield. They talk about running an independent radio station, the three things that can get you kicked off the station, and what it means to be the Voice of the Old West. Also, Josh and Trucker Andy talk about Andy's recent "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" trip home and about other favorite 80s movies. Writer Marc Friedman reads his essay "Feb 3 The Night The Music Died." Finally we hear the Daniel Rodriguez song, "Colorado."

00:00 Introduction to the podcast and guest

04:44 Trucker Andy on 80s movies of youth

07:14 Storytelling: Tribute to Sports Radio

11:48 Song "Dead Soldiers" by Big Hands Colvin

12:26 The local and global reach of Goldfield's KGFN radio

16:52 The history and significance of Goldfield Nevada

25:52 The station's eclectic programming and community role

32:34 The history of Goldfield and its mines

36:53 Ghost stories, legends, and local lore

43:52 "Feb 3, The Night the Music Died" by Marc Friedman

48:13 Song "Colorado" by Daniel Rodriguez

resources

KGFN Radio Station - https://kgfn.org

Buddy Holly - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddy_Holly

Radio Garden - https://radio.garden

Daniel Rodriguez Music - https://drodriguezmusic.com

Mark Friedman Substack—https://marcfriedmanesq.substack.com/

In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin engages in a conversation with immersive journalist Ted Conover, exploring themes of freedom, community, and the human experience. Conover shares his unique approach to journalism, which involves living the stories he tells, whether it's working as a prison guard, hopping freight trains, or living off-grid in Colorado. The discussion delves into the realities of prison life, the romanticized notion of hobo culture, and the challenges and rewards of off-grid living. Josh and Trucker Andy talk about Michigan culture and writer Tony Woodlief reads his essay Home From the Outside. Finally the show closes with a cool song from Clay Street Unit.

https://tedconover.com/

https://tonywoodlief.com/

https://www.claystreetunit.com/

02:45 Trucker Andy

09:15 Storytelling: What Will They Remember

15:00 Song: "Daddy Can We Stay" by Big Hands Colvin

19:30 Ted Conover Interview

1:00:10 Home From the Outside by Tony Woodlief

1:05:37 Song "Rollin'" by Clay Street Unit

In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin welcomes back writer Masha Hamilton who takes listeners on a journey through Bisbee, Arizona, exploring its haunted history and ghost stories. Josh and Trucker Andy discuss favorite scary movies, and there's a great essay from Chad Schomber about growing up in a different time. Finally the show ends with a song from the fantastic Austin-based band Briscoe.

Masha Hamilton: www.mashahamilton.com

Chad Schomber: substack.com/@1001paperclips

Briscoe: www.briscoetheband.com

Chapters

02:00 Trucker Andy

08:13 Storytelling: Illegal Rafting Trip

12:15 Song: "Walking Willie" by Big Hands Colvin

15:38 Exploring Bisbee's Haunted History

37:40 Veteran of Growing Up by Chad Schomber

44:42 Song "Hooped Earrings" by Briscoe

In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin explores the vibrant lowrider culture through the stories of Lolo and Joan Medina, who share their journey into lowriding, the artistry involved, and the community's commitment to giving back. The conversation delves into the significance of music, style, and the personal connections that define the lowrider lifestyle, while also reflecting on broader themes of Americana and community spirit. This episode also features the essay Instant Nostalgia by writer and photographer Justin Allen and the show ends with the song American Made by Blue Water Highway.

02:25 Trucker Andy

07:37 Storytelling: Songs of My Youth

12:40 Exploring Lowrider Culture with Arthur & Joanne Medina

30:14 The Intersection of Lowriders and Hot Rods

31:38 Family Legacy in Lowriding

32:35 Inclusivity in Lowrider Culture

33:31 Empowering Women in Lowriding

34:51 Community Outreach and Support

38:58 Cultural Hub of Espanola / Chimayo NM

40:19 Connecting Through Art and History

46:41 Dream Cars and Road Trips

49:30 Instant Nostalgia by Justin Allen

57:00 American Made by Blue Water Highway

In this episode of American Miles host Josh Colvin talks with Podcast UFO host Martin Willis. They discuss the latest UFO revelations, skepticism, and Martin's own incredible encounter. There's also an excerpt from YouTube of Colonel Karl Nell speaking at the Salt Conference. This episode also features the author Zachary Michael Jack reading from his essay "The Long Lonely Drive" adapted from his book The Haunt of Home: A Journey through America's Heartland. The show closes with a song by Tim Jones and Truth & Salvage Co.

2:50 Trucker Andy

10:01 Storytelling: The Art of Ditch

17:58 Interview with Martin Willis on UFOs

33:51 The Intersection of Religion and UFOs

37:39 Credible Witnesses and Personal Experiences

40:05 The Roswell Incident and Government Disinformation

43:42 Technological Advancements and UFOs

46:26 Personal Reflections and Life Lessons

49:50 The Long Lonely Drive by Zachary Michael Jack

01:00:27 "24 Hours" by Truth & Salvage Co.

In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin talks about fighting and life with professional boxer and bestselling author Edward Latimore. They explore themes of personal growth, the challenges of boxing, the philosophy of stoicism, and dealing with alcoholism. Ed shares insights from his life experiences, including the lessons learned from his only loss in the ring. The episode also features a segment on Franklin, North Carolina, and the Center for Wilderness Cryptid Studies, discussing the local culture and the intriguing topic of Bigfoot. The show closes with a song by Jovin Webb.

02:30 Trucker Andy

07:45 Storytelling: Grandpa Dick Was a Nudist

13:45 Interview with Boxer and Writer Ed Latimore

53:14 Small Town Talk: Franklin, NC with Jeremy Trey Ross

1:07:00 "Drunk on Your Love" by Jovin Webb

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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