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American Miles: A Roadtrip Podcast

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

Josh Colvin

In this episode of American Miles, host Josh Colvin talks with former schoolmate Adrian Alvi about Grimme Tidings, the subversive underground newspaper he published in high school, the trouble it caused, and the school board's campaign to shut it down. Josh also catches up with Trucker Andy somewhere in Illinois. Later, Josh reads his own essay about running a roadblock, and artist and writer Justin Parpan reads his essay, “The Last Time I Saw That Pizza Hut,” a reflection on memory, permanence, and what is actually lost. Music from AJ Lee & Blue Summit.https://www.bluesummitmusic.comhttps://www.justinparpan.com02:15 Trucker Andy06:25 Storytelling: Running Roadblocks17:40 Grimme Tidings the Adrian Alvi Interview 51:15 "The Last Time I Saw That Pizza Hut" by Justin Parpan58:30 "Seaside Town" by Aj Lee and Blue Summit

Grimme Tidings: A Notorious High School Newspaper

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 Andy05:40— Storytelling: The Right Kind of Dog10:50 —Song: "Soon" by Big Hands Colvin13:00 —Sherman Alexie Interview 15:00 —Sick Dog Story from Book23:00 —Leaving the Reservation School25:40 —Poverty27:55 —Words and Violence29:30 —Basketball42:00 —College These Days50:00 —Fame54:00 —His Favorite Towns and Most Memorable Road Trip58:30 —"Blue Light Special" by Sherman Alexie1:02:50 —"Snowed In" by The Droptines• Sherman Alexie: https://shermanalexie.substack.com/• The Droptines: https://www.thedroptines.com/

Basketball, Poverty, and Fame: Sherman Alexie Interview

In this episode, host Josh Colvin explores the nostalgic world of payphones, sharing personal stories, calling strangers across the country, and reflecting on the cultural significance and decline of payphones in America. The episode also features interviews with phone prankster Brad Carter, a call to Texas cowboy hat expert, an essay called "I Made My Mom a Clay Ashtry in School" by Todd Kashdan, and a musical performance by Rambler Kane.02:17 Trucker Andy: 1980s Billboard Felines06:27 Storytelling: Moving Furniture and Other Crimes13:50 Payphone Diary: Calling Strangers Across America20:17 Interview with Brad Carter: Phone Pranks and Red Boxing30:23  Todd Kashdan "I Made My Mom a Clay Ashtray in School" 37:48 Visit to McKinney, Texas: Cowboy Hats and Local Culture42:30 Musical Performance by Rambler Kane: GoneBrad Carter's Snowplow ShowTodd Kashdan's Provoked SubstackRambler Kane's MusicMcKinney Hat Company

Payphone Diary

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 Connection27:54 — Optimism and Trust in Human Nature37:27 — Getting Started: The Philosophy of Moving Slowly39:21 — The Deep Roots of Making and Human Nature41:48 — The Importance of Storytelling and Human Connection44:42 — Favorite Songs and Small-Town Life47:45 — "Moose Hunting" by Tom Bodett52:31 — "A Friend Like a You" by  The Milk Carton KidsMoose Hunting by Tom BodettTom Bodett's WebsiteHatchSpaceThe Milk Carton Kids

Familiar Voice: Tom Bodett Interview

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 guest04:44 Trucker Andy on 80s movies of youth07:14 Storytelling: Tribute to Sports Radio 11:48 Song "Dead Soldiers" by Big Hands Colvin12:26 The local and global reach of Goldfield's KGFN radio16:52 The history and significance of Goldfield Nevada25:52 The station's eclectic programming and community role32:34 The history of Goldfield and its mines36:53 Ghost stories, legends, and local lore43:52 "Feb 3, The Night the Music Died" by Marc Friedman48:13 Song "Colorado" by Daniel Rodriguez resourcesKGFN Radio Station - https://kgfn.orgBuddy Holly - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddy_HollyRadio Garden - https://radio.gardenDaniel Rodriguez Music - https://drodriguezmusic.comMark Friedman Substack—https://marcfriedmanesq.substack.com/

Voices in the Static

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 Andy09:15 Storytelling: What Will They Remember15:00 Song: "Daddy Can We Stay" by Big Hands Colvin19:30 Ted Conover Interview1:00:10 Home From the Outside by Tony Woodlief1:05:37 Song "Rollin'" by Clay Street Unit

Americans at the Edges: Ted Conover Interview

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.comChad Schomber: substack.com/@1001paperclipsBriscoe: www.briscoetheband.comChapters02:00 Trucker Andy08:13 Storytelling: Illegal Rafting Trip12:15  Song: "Walking Willie" by Big Hands Colvin15:38 Exploring Bisbee's Haunted History37:40 Veteran of Growing Up by Chad Schomber44:42 Song "Hooped Earrings" by Briscoe

The Ghost Town That Never Died: Masha Hamilton in Bisbee

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 Andy07:37 Storytelling: Songs of My Youth12:40 Exploring Lowrider Culture with Arthur & Joanne Medina30:14 The Intersection of Lowriders and Hot Rods31:38 Family Legacy in Lowriding32:35 Inclusivity in Lowrider Culture33:31 Empowering Women in Lowriding34:51 Community Outreach and Support38:58 Cultural Hub of Espanola / Chimayo NM 40:19 Connecting Through Art and History46:41 Dream Cars and Road Trips49:30 Instant Nostalgia by Justin Allen57:00 American Made by Blue Water Highway 

Lowriders: Joan & Arthur LowLow Medina Interview

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 Andy10:01 Storytelling: The Art of Ditch 17:58 Interview with Martin Willis on UFOs33:51 The Intersection of Religion and UFOs37:39 Credible Witnesses and Personal Experiences40:05 The Roswell Incident and Government Disinformation43:42 Technological Advancements and UFOs46:26 Personal Reflections and Life Lessons49:50 The Long Lonely Drive by Zachary Michael Jack01:00:27 "24 Hours" by Truth & Salvage Co.

UFOs: Martin Willis Interview

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 Andy07:45 Storytelling: Grandpa Dick Was a Nudist13:45 Interview with Boxer and Writer Ed Latimore53:14 Small Town Talk: Franklin, NC with Jeremy Trey Ross1:07:00 "Drunk on Your Love" by Jovin Webb

Sweet Science: Edward Latimore Interview

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 Andy07:08 Storytelling: Teenage Travel Agent12:25 I-95 Rest Stop Conversations with Masha Hamilton51:30 "If Not" poem by Matthew Layne53:14 Small Town Talk: Niantic CT58:55 "Easy on the Eyes" by Texas Hill

Interstate 95: Masha Hamilton Interviews

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 Andy08:09 Storytelling: Who's Afraid of Dwayne the Rock Johnson16:53 Crap form the Past: Ron Gerber's Journey24:51 The Dichotomy of Music: Good vs. Bad28:28 Decades of Music: A Personal Perspective33:28 Disco: A Love-Hate Relationship34:55 The Evolution of Disco Music 39:15 The Impact of Disco on Other Genres44:54 The Transition from Vinyl to CDs50:58 Defining Perfect Songs55:31 Musical Fads and Trends57:10 Be Now Be Now essay by Vince Roman01:02:21 Go Be Free by Sonny Gullege 

Crap From The Past: Ron Gerber 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 Andy05:33 Storytelling: Beware the Alcatraz Reject10:13 The Thrill of the Hunt: W.C. Jameson's Journey19:32 Techniques and Tools of Treasure Hunting29:10 The Ethics and Risks of Treasure Hunting37:18 The Art of Treasure Hunting: Tips and Techniques42:14 Writing and Storytelling: The Journey of an Author44:02 Excerpt WC Jameson's Song "I Dug the Postholes"45:40 The Good Badass Samaritan by John Drake Robinson56:11 Song by Pennyfloater

Outlaw Treasure Hunter: WC Jameson 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 Andy06:35 Storytelling: Middle School Class Clownery11:08 The Legacy and Evolution of Route 6620:33 Nostalgia and the Cultural Significance of Route 6622:32 Hidden Gems and Unique Stops Along Route 6625:46 Preservation Challenges and Future of Route 6627:14 Exploring Route 66 Diners and Cafes29:05 Iconic Motels Along Route 6630:56 Unique Gift Shops and Museums32:53 Revitalizing Communities on Route 6634:36 Musical References to Route 6635:55 The Evolution of Route 66 Radio36:57 Small-Town Talk Amboy, CA47:58 Future Visions for Amboy50:30 Song by Lloyd Jones

Route 66: Jim Hinckley 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. Chapters02:20 Trucker Andy6:20 Storytelling: Falcons and Firebirds12:17 Exploring the Competitive Pinball World23:50 The Art and Science of Pinball Design29:59 The Resurgence of Pinball in Modern Culture30:29 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 Musician50:50 Evergreen by Michigan Rattlers

The Ball is Wild: Josh Sharpe 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 Andy5:45 Playing the Ponies Story12:05 The Journey of a Professional Gambler24:10 The Art and Science of Gambling32:30 Strategies for Success in Gambling34:48 Big Wins and Losses in Gambling39:10 The Evolution of Vegas and Its Culture42:54 Navigating Vegas: Tips and Recommendations45:05 Nostalgia and the Drive-In Movie Experience49:37 The Appeal of Drive-Ins in Modern Times 52:15 Challenges and Growth of Drive-In Theaters58:00 Programming and Movie Selection Strategies1:05:40 Somewhere Between Texas and Tennessee

Vegas Player: Anthony Curtis 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. Chapters00:00 Introduction to American Miles02:02 Breaker 1-9 with Andy Patterson05:27 Storytelling: King of the Hard Cases13:02 Interview with A.M. Andy Hickman: A Writer's Journey17:54 The Duality of American Culture27:10 Hitchhiking: A Journey of Discovery32:09 Traveling Beyond Automobiles34:30 The Relay Race of Life37:19 Resignation and Reflection on American Identity39:40 Travel Recommendations and Personal Favorites42:00 The Impact of Modern Convenience43:30 Small Town Talk: Littleton, NH50:50 A.M. Hickman Reads Excerpt from Deep Canyon Elders01:00 Song: The Big Empty by Hunter Gatherer

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, 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 Miles05:47 Understanding Trucking Communication08:00 Storytelling: UFOs and Exploding Toothpaste12:09 Driving Safety Tips and Insights17:56 Brock Yates Jr.'s Journey in Motorsports24:08 The Evolution of Road Racing29:52 Driving Training and Safety Education35:39 Demonstrating Driving Skills36:09 Choosing a Safe Vehicle for Young Drivers37:08 Memorable First Date at High Speed38:57 Exploring America's Best Driving Roads40:41 Nostalgic Trends and Fashion from Youth41:38 Favorite Small Towns in America43:05 Ideal Vehicles for Cross-Country Road Trips44:49 A Toast to Jimmy Buffett45:04 The Essence of the Jimmy Buffett Experience47:01 The Melancholy Side of Margaritaville49:40 Passing Wisdom to Future Generations52:03 Breathe In, Breathe Out: Life Lessons from Buffett

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 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 Journey02:00 Insights from Trucker Andy: Life on the Road08:30 The Loneliness of Trucking and Stories from the Road11:40 Storytelling: Tooty and a Nip Off That Tipple16:33 Neil Moore's Epic Canoe Journey Across America27:01 Challenges and Encounters in the Wild 34:08 Reflections on Nature and the Journey's Beauty36:00 The Beauty of Nature and Human Connection38:52 Living Unplugged: A Journey of Minimalism 42:00 Reflections on Small Towns and Personal Experiences42:56 Exploring Madison, Indiana: A Local Perspective 54:57 The Wisdom of Wildness: Reading from Down the Mississippi59:00 Big Hands Colvin: Hey Margarita