My article about the Joyful Mysterieshttps://open.substack.com/pub/freedrift/p/the-joyful-mysteries?r=3umok&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=trueMy article about the Holy Rosary https://freedrift.substack.com/publish/post/181839853https://linktr.ee/FreedriftKevinhttps://freedrift.substack.com/

For nearly a decade, Hair Metal wasn’t a niche—it was mainstream rock. Then it vanished.Film scholar and historian Andrew Patrick Nelson joins me to make the case for Hair Metal as one of the most misunderstood eras in modern music history. What gets dismissed as camp or excess was, in reality, a genre built on virtuoso guitar playing, powerful vocalists, massive studio production, and an unmatched sense of fun.Andrew traces Hair Metal from its early-80s club roots through its late-80s commercial peak, to the harder turn of the early 90s that was abruptly cut short. We talk Quiet Riot, Dokken, David Lee Roth, Skid Row, and why bands that once filled stadiums were suddenly erased from radio and cultural memory almost overnight.Tracklist:Quiet Riot – “Cum on Feel the Noize” (1983)Kiss – “Lick It Up” (1983)Twisted Sister – “We’re Not Gonna Take It” (1984)Ratt – “Round and Round” (1984)Dokken – “Into the Fire” (1984)David Lee Roth – “Yankee Rose” (1986)Cinderella – “Nobody’s Fool” (1986)Mötley Crüe – “Girls, Girls, Girls” (1987)Guns N’ Roses – “Welcome to the Jungle” (1987)Poison – “Nothin’ But a Good Time” (1988)Warrant – “Heaven” (1989)Skid Row – “Slave to the Grind” (1991)

A reading of Merwin's gorgeous poem, "Vixen." Find the accompanying story at: https://freedrift.substack.com/p/109b1252-6f9c-4af0-a344-63315d453896

Andrew Patrick Nelson delves into the remarkable career of Barbara Stanwyck, exploring her iconic roles, emotional authenticity, and the complexity of her characters. The discussion highlights her impact on film noir, her dynamic performances alongside Fred MacMurray, and the evolution of her filmography. Check out Andrew’s top-ten list at: freedrift.substack.com/p/0a0b9abf-ff6a-4b6d-807c-6076af91b365Andrew Patrick Nelson is a historian and film scholar who chaired the Department of Film & Media Arts at the University of Utah. He co-hosts “How the West was Cast, and is a regular on the History Channel, NPR, PBS, and Fox Nation. If you’re in Scottsdale, visit him at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, where he serves as Chief Curator. You can find him at andrewpnelson.com and on Instagram at AndrewPatrickNelson.

David Fraze has spent over 35 years mentoring students, athletes, and families, helping them navigate the challenges of identity, faith, and competition. In this deep dive, we explore his journey from student minister to university professor and special assistant to the president at Lubbock Christian University. Fraze shares powerful insights on how youth sports can shape character, why failure is a gift, and how faith and mindfulness intersect on and off the field. Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, this is a must-read on balancing performance with purpose.

Author Joe Pappalardo joins us to discuss his new book, "Four Against the West," which unravels the myth of Roy Bean—the so-called "Law West of the Pecos"—and dives into the untold stories of his brothers, Sam, James, and Joshua. While Roy is often remembered as a frontier judge, Pappalardo reveals a more complex truth: Roy was more showman than lawman, and his brothers left equally significant marks on the Wild West.

In this episode, we explore how Pappalardo blends meticulous research with cinematic storytelling, capturing the grit, chaos, and contradictions of the Old West. Hear about his discoveries in archives, his adventures retracing the Beans' steps, and how his work sheds light on the era's real history—where civilization and lawlessness collided.

Tune in for a fascinating conversation that tears down old myths to reveal the true stories of the men who lived, fought, and survived on the frontier.

In this conversation, Sammy Swindell shares his journey in racing, starting from his early days influenced by his father's passion for the sport. He discusses the importance of car setup, mental focus, and the strategies that contribute to his success on the track. Swindell reflects on the dynamics of racing, the thrill of competition, and the lessons learned from both victories and defeats. He also touches on the differences between racing on dirt and pavement, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to driving and life.

In this conversation, Kevin Ryan and Rick Hinderer delve into the world of knife making, exploring Rick's journey from a horse trainer to a renowned knife maker. They discuss the importance of craftsmanship, the influence of creativity, and the design philosophy behind Rick's knives, emphasizing usability and ergonomics. The conversation also touches on the materials used in knife making, the innovative Tri-Way pivot system, and the artistic elements that make Rick's knives unique. Throughout the discussion, Rick shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the significance of testing and prototyping in the design process. In this engaging conversation, Rick Hinderer discusses the intricacies of knife design, emphasizing the importance of functionality and craftsmanship in survival situations. He shares personal anecdotes about his journey in knife making, the significance of USA-made products, and the emotional connection that comes with owning a high-quality knife. The discussion also touches on the technical aspects of knife grinds and the artistry involved in sheath making, culminating in a rich exploration of the history and innovation behind his work.