Our Recent Podcasts
Enjoy some of our travel podcasts where we discuss famous locations and fantastic getaways in each and every exciting episode of the Trip Talk podcast.
Exploring Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, Mudbugs & Swamps
Posted on 03/31/2026
In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, host Gary Mantz speaks with Ian Wallis, the Sales and Marketing Manager for Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, to highlight Lafourche Parish as a[…]
Journey to the Top of the Rockies in Colorado’s Lake County
Posted on 03/23/2026
Gary Mantz sits down with Adam Ducharme, the tourism director for Colorado’s Lake County, to explore the breathtaking Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway. Road trippers are invited to journey[…]
Adventure Drives for When Spring Arrives (encore)
Posted on 03/17/2026
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.[…]
Discovering the Secrets of Colorado’s San Luis Valley
Posted on 03/02/2026
In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, Gary Mantz takes listeners on a journey to Southern Colorado’s spectacular San Luis Valley. Joined by Julie Chacon, Executive Director of the[…]
Legends of New Jersey with Karl Petry
Posted on 02/23/2026
In this encore 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[…]
Cruising the Ozarks: Route 66 Adventures in Pulaski County, Missouri
Posted on 02/16/2026
In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, listeners are taken on a nostalgic journey through the rolling hills of the Ozarks to explore the vibrant history and quirky roadside[…]
Celebrating the Centennial of Route 66 in Illinois
Posted on 02/09/2026
This year Route 66 is celebrating its 100th anniversary, and we’ve invited the executive director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, Casey Claypool, to chat about famous stops, diners[…]
The North American Bigfoot Center
Posted on 02/02/2026
In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, we sit down with researcher and former Finding Bigfoot host Cliff Barackman, who is also the curator of the North American Bigfoot[…]
International Pancake Day Race
Posted on 01/26/2026
Gary Mantz sits down with Sally Fuller to chat about this friendly little competition between Liberal, Kansas, and Olney, England, with women running 415 yards down the streets of each[…]
Celebrating the Route 66 Centennial in Springfield, Illinois
Posted on 01/19/2026
In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, we pay another visit to Springfield, Illinois, where Amy Beadle discusses the city’s extensive preparations for the 2026 Route 66 Centennial. Beadle[…]
Legends of New Jersey with Karl Petry
Posted on 01/12/2026
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[…]
National Scenic Byway Program
Posted on 01/05/2026
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 NSBA,[…]
Leavenworth: A Winter Wonderland in the Cascades
Posted on 12/29/2025
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.[…]
Looking a Lot Like Christmas with Jessica Dunham
Posted on 12/29/2025
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.
Better Than Milk & Cookies: A Cops & Doughnuts Holiday
Posted on 12/18/2025
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[…]
Winter Holiday Road Trip Safety & Highway 12 Winery
Posted on 12/08/2025
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[…]
Cozy Fireplaces in PNW Lodges
Posted on 11/24/2025
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[…]
Traditional Christmas in St. Charles, Missouri
Posted on 11/17/2025
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[…]
Confessions of a Prairie “Rhymes with Witch”
Posted on 11/10/2025
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[…]
Happy Halloween 2025 with Karl Petry
Posted on 11/03/2025
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[…]
Glory of the Old South Glows Along the Natchez Trace
Posted on 10/27/2025
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[…]
Now Comes the Terror and the Good Times
Posted on 10/20/2025
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[…]
Springfield, Illinois: Where Yesterday Joins Today in Welcoming You
Posted on 10/17/2025
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[…]
Corn Mazes and Pumpkin Patches Celebrate Autumn in Western Washington
Posted on 10/06/2025
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[…]
Stunning Natural Nevada Awaits Your Discovery
Posted on 09/30/2025
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[…]
Lift a Stein and Raise Your Spirits at Ocktoberfest
Posted on 09/22/2025
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[…]
Spectacular Summer Fun Finales for the Whole Family
Posted on 09/16/2025
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[…]
Sampling the Eateries on Route 66
Posted on 09/11/2025
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[…]
Happy Labor Day Weekend!
Posted on 09/01/2025
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[…]
Harriet Baskas Captures the Magic of The Emerald City
Posted on 08/25/2025
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[…]
Monroe and West Monroe Louisiana Welcome You
Posted on 08/18/2025
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,[…]
PNW Beaches: A Scenic Wonderland
Posted on 08/11/2025
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[…]
History Comes Alive Happening Now in Springfield, Illinois
Posted on 08/04/2025
“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,[…]
Cool Summer Wonderland: Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Posted on 07/28/2025
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[…]
You Can See Heaven from Here: Mountain Majesties in Washington State
Posted on 07/21/2025
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[…]
The Superman Saga Continues with a Summer Blockbuster
Posted on 07/14/2025
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,[…]
Western Washington Independence Day Celebrations
Posted on 07/07/2025
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[…]
Fallon, Nevada Takes the Lonely Out of the Loneliest Road
Posted on 06/30/2025
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[…]
The Stars Shine Brightest in Ely, Nevada
Posted on 06/23/2025
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[…]
History Comes Alive Turns 16 this Summer in Springfield, Illinois
Posted on 06/18/2025
“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.[…]
Nevada’s Indian Territory Invites Exploration
Posted on 06/02/2025
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[…]
Memorial Day Weekend Commemorations in Western Washington
Posted on 05/27/2025
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[…]
Pigeon River: A Natural Wonder is Back from the Brink
Posted on 05/19/2025
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[…]
Tony from Jersey on How to Avoid the Road Trip from Hell
Posted on 05/12/2025
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[…]
The Comeback Trail: Appalachia After Helene
Posted on 05/05/2025
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[…]
Before Nevada Was the Battle-Born State: the Story of the Pony Express
Posted on 04/28/2025
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[…]
Iconic Rides at The Hollywood Museum
Posted on 04/21/2025
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[…]
