PODCAST

The FREEDRIFT Podcast

Kevin Ryan

Interviews for the FREEDRIFT Substack.

news

All Episodes

00:28:17

Barbara Stanwyck is the greatest actress of all time:...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/10/28

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

00:32:55

Why Failure is the Best Gift an Athlete Can Receive |...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/03/10

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,

00:35:35

Four Against the West: Unmasking the Bean Brothers...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/03/04

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

00:32:19

The Journey of Racing Legend Sammy Swindell

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/02/14

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

01:09:05

From Horses to Blades: Rick Hinderer's Journey

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/02/13

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

00:32:43

Quantum computing: multiverse? end of cryptography? A...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/02/05

What if everything we know about reality is wrong? Quantum mechanics isn't just a weird science experiment—it could rewrite the rules of existence. From Schrödinger’s cat to the mind-bending possibilities of the multiverse, this is the story of how quantum physics challenges our understanding of time, space, and even free will.Science journalist Joe Pappalardo joins the conversation to explore how quantum breakthroughs are shaping the future. From quantum computing to the eerie implications of

00:05:10

Are We Ready for Smart Cities? Joe Pappalardo Weighs In

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/02/05

In this insightful interview with Joe Pappalardo, one of the top science journalists of our time, we dive into the future of smart cities, exploring the complexities of interconnected systems, the loss of human agency, and the role of technology in shaping urban life. Pappalardo shares his thoughts on the promise and pitfalls of smart cities, from the potential benefits in healthcare to the concerns about privacy, surveillance, and control. With his extensive background covering aviation, space

00:51:04

Art Ayris on Building Kingstone Studios and...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/01/27

In this episode, I sit down with Art Ayris, the visionary founder of Kingstone Studios, as he shares his incredible journey from overcoming multiple near-death experiences to creating a groundbreaking platform that brings the Bible to life through comics. Art discusses the pivotal role faith played in his life, the challenges of creating compelling Christian media, and how his team at Kingstone Studios is revolutionizing storytelling with powerful visual narratives. Whether you're a comic book fan,

01:04:21

Faith, Family, and Blades | The Story of Dawson...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2025/01/06

In this episode, Kevin Ryan sits down with John Roy of Dawson Knives for a deep and inspiring conversation about faith, craftsmanship, and the values that shape our world. They explore the origins of Dawson Knives as a family business rooted in tradition, the artistry of sword-making, and the cutting-edge innovation of MagnaCut steel. John shares personal stories that highlight the power of prayer, the importance of patience, and the lessons learned from missed opportunities. The discussion delves

00:42:47

Tarantino’s "Hangout Movie": Why "Rio Bravo" Still...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/10/29

I spoke with the legendary Andrew Patrick Nelson, film historian and chief curator of Western Spirit, Scottsdale's Museum of the West.Discover why "Rio Bravo" is more than just a Western—it’s a cinematic response to the Hollywood politics of its time and a favorite of director Quentin Tarantino, who calls it his ultimate “hangout movie.” Directed by Howard Hawks, this 1959 John Wayne classic was crafted as a deliberate counterpoint to "High Noon," a film that both Hawks and Wayne saw as undermining

00:20:37

What the FEMA response to Hurricane Helene reveals:...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/10/07

In this conversation, I speak with Jason Nelson about the devastating impact of a recent hurricane on Western North Carolina, highlighting the logistical challenges faced in disaster response, the failures of government agencies like FEMA, and the urgent need for community support and action. Jason shares his personal experiences and instincts during the crisis, emphasizing the dire situation on the ground, including sanitation issues and the lack of resources.

00:33:50

The Real Story of the Singing Cowboy and the Power of...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/09/03

Douglas Green, also known as Ranger Doug, discusses his experiences as a member of the Western music group Riders in the Sky and his love for Western music and culture. He shares stories about playing at the Grand Ole Opry, the history of the song 'Don't Fence Me In,' and the figure of the singing cowboy. He also talks about the connection between Western movies, TV shows, and music, and the impact of Western music on different generations. Green highlights the importance of preserving

00:06:02

Wednesday Western: The Clash Between Law and...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/08/27

Open Range is a classic Western film directed by Kevin Costner. It follows two mysterious and steely-eyed strangers, Charlie and Boss Spearman, who are free grazers in the last days of the frontier west. The film explores the clash between law and lawlessness, as well as the authenticity of the heroes and the Western setting. It also delves into the concept of masculinity and the strong silent type. The gunfight scenes in the film are particularly notable. Overall, Open Range is considered one of

00:18:27

Wednesday Western: "The Old Way" (2023)

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/08/14

This week's WednesdayWestern is “The Old Way” (2023), a horrible movie featuring Nic Cage. We start with the connection between 'The Old Way' and the tragic incident on the set of the movie 'Rust', which had the same gun handler. We also delve into Nic Cage's acting style, known as 'Nouveau Shamanic', and highlight some of his iconic performances. Full article appears on The Blaze.

01:05:12

The Cowboy Novelist You Need to Check Out: Nathan...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/08/05

Nathan Dahlstrom writes Western-tinged Young Adult fiction under the pen name S.J. Dahlstrom. In an era where libraries have allowed the creep of ideology to spoil books, he delivers characters and scenes with backbone and wonder. Align interviewer Kevin Ryan chatted with Nathan at Mercury Studios, headquarters of Blaze Media. You can find the entire profile here (LINK) They discuss masculinity, boyhood, and storytelling through the lens of the American West. As well as the importance of writing

00:29:15

Ryan Vaughan, CEO of Anderson Bean Boots

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/07/08

Ryan Vaughan, CEO of Anderson Bean Boots, discusses the history and unique features of the boot and the company. The Rios family has been making boots since 1853 and settled in South Texas to take advantage of the fertile valley along the Rio Grande River. Anderson Bean boots are known for their high-quality materials and construction, making them durable and comfortable. The brand works closely with retailers to design unique boots that cater to their customers' preferences. Anderson Bean boots

00:59:32

Exorcist Fr. Vincent Lampert

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/07/08

Father Vince Lampert discusses the ministry of exorcism and the importance of understanding it as an act of light and redemption. He shares the challenges faced by exorcists and the need for priests to prioritize their vocation over busyness. Father Lampert emphasizes the role of parish priests and the distinction between their responsibilities and those of exorcists. He explains the increase in exorcisms and the training process for exorcists. Father Lampert also discusses the importance of

00:36:10

Is Stagecoach the best movie ever made? Interview...

The FREEDRIFT Podcast ·

2024/07/08

In this interview, Andrew Patrick Nelson once again proves his title as the Evangelist of Western Movies. He takes us on a deep dive into the classic Western film 'Stagecoach' and its impact on the genre. Associate Professor at University of Utah, he guides students through the badlands full of robbers and coyotes, revealing the props and scenery of the fiction at play. He’s written extensively about these complexities, including the two journals he founded: “The Popular West” and “Reel

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