In this episode, Ethan interviews Mr. Greg Bolen, Criminal Justice teacher at Carroll County High School and Deputy at Carroll County Sheriff's Office. They discuss his early professional wrestling career, how he navigated adversity through his childhood, his early career in law enforcement and education, and some of the lessons he learned throughout the way. At the end of the episode, he reflects on his career and offers advice to students considering careers in law enforcement or education. Thank you again Mr. Bolen for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan interviews Republican Candidate for Virginia Lieutenant Governor John Reid. They discuss his interest in politics, briefly touch on his father's political career and his role in it as well as his career in radio, his work with President Ronald Reagan and his work in international politics, and his platform. Then, he directly addresses some of early controversies regarding his campaign and how he and his team have fought to regain their momentum coming into election season. Finally, he explains his platform, including defending right-to-work and a childcare tax credit for providers, discusses his proposed debate plan with Senator Hashmi, and answers a few wholesome rapid-fire questions. Thank you again Mr. Reid for being on the podcast. This podcast is also available as a video production on our YouTube channel. Ways to contact Mr. John Reid: Website: https://www.johnreidforvirginia.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnReidForVirginia Twitter/X: https://x.com/JohnReid4VA Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan interviews Recovery Pastor Kevin Harrod of First United Methodist Church. During the interview, Ethan and Pastor Harrod discuss his story with addiction, his spiritual transformation and journey to and through recovery, and then his introduction to ministering to others suffering from substance use disorder. From there, they discuss the program at Recovery United and how it helps others suffering from addiction to start their path on recovery. Finally, they discuss Pastor Harrod's experience and perspective on ministering to others. Thank you again Pastor Harrod for being on the podcast. Ways to contact Pastor Kevin Harrod: Phone: 276-266-0264 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kharrod2 Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Hillsville Mayor Greg Crowder. They discuss his time in the Navy as a Machinist Mate, his start in business through auto sales, and then the roller-coaster of his NASCAR merchandise business. After that, he discusses real estate, his printing business, his gas stations, and the impact the Great Recession had on his businesses. From there, he details his journey into politics sparked by a proposed cigarette tax, his time and the work he has done as Mayor of Hillsville, and some of the projects and events that he, the Town Council, and the Friends of Hillsville focus on. Finally, he discusses the importance of family and faith. Thank you again Mayor Crowder for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Mr. Marion Harris. During the interview, they discuss his early upbringing, his father's career as a minister, his involvement in youth sports, and his time at Bluefield College. From there, he recounts memories at his first jobs before, during, and after college, working as a Special Education teacher, and coaching various sports. They also discuss how he impacts youth sports through refereeing and training others to become referees. Finally, he discusses his faith, family, and the importance of community when it comes to raising a family and going through life. To wrap it up, the three have some quick banter about the best Star Wars movies and Duke or UNC being better. Thank you again Mr. Harris for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

This episode is unique. Instead of the usual book talk or interview, Ethan discusses his involvement as a volunteer Poll Worker/Election Officer in the June 17th Primary in Carroll County, Virginia. He discusses the training process, the proceedings on election day, the results of the elections, and provides some thoughts on the benefits of volunteering and civic engagement. Ethan wanted to send his congratulations to each and every candidate who ran, regardless of the results. He also wanted to give a special thanks to those who have been on the podcast and shown their support; it would not be possible without them. Thank you all. Links mentioned: Website: https://carrollcountyva.gov/government/election_voter_registration/index.php Email: stacey.reavis@carrollcountyva.gov Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Mr. Brett Sexton, musician, Christian, and Galax School Board member. Throughout the episode, they discuss his passion for music and early career in music production, the role of hard work and discipline curated by fitness and the martial arts, and the importance of nutrition and sleep on fitness. They go on to discuss education, including the role of Artificial Intelligence and cell phones in schools, and observations of culture and societal values. Some topics include shoes, the UFC and mixed martial arts, watches, fitness influencers, podcasting, advertising, and more. Finally, Mr. Sexton discusses the importance of his faith in his and his family's life. Thank you again Mr. Sexton for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Judge Brett L. Geisler. They discuss his educational background as a Political Science student at Virginia Tech, law student at the University of Richmond, and practicing lawyer with his father in his hometown of Hillsville, Virginia. They reflect on Judge Geisler's first days in court, advice from his father, and the rigorous law school curriculum. Then, they touch on his diverse legal experience as an attorney in a small town, his time as county attorney, and his campaigns as a candidate for Commonwealth Attorney and the House of Delegates. Finally, they reflect on how his experience as a teacher and a judge has impacted his fatherhood and community involvement. This is an excellent episode for those interested in the legal field. Thank you again Judge Geisler for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Mr. Dave White, husband, father, and Pastor at Christ Chapel in Galax, Virginia. They discuss his early life and upbringing, his faith life, his wife's introduction to ministry and her journey, and his eventual entrance into the clergy. Throughout the episode, he discusses the lessons he has learned, his life as a father and husband, and different jobs he has worked throughout his life. At the end of the episode, he explains Christ Chapel's mission and invites everyone to learn more about the gospel and visit the church. Thank you again Mr. White for being on the podcast. Links mentioned: Website: http://ccgalax.com/ Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Mr. Sam Terry, father, veteran, educator, and Rotarian. They discuss his early life and family history, his time at Virginia Tech in the Corps of Cadets, his service in the Army reserves, and his time in education. After a few years as a teacher, he becomes the Director of Vocational Education for Carroll County Public Schools and a Rotarian. A proud father to two children, he retired after thirty-two years in education to travel the world with his family and work in his shop. Thank you again Mr. Terry for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan interviews Mr. Steve Pottorff, Carroll County Cooperative Extension Agent. They discuss the history of Cooperative Extension, Land Grant Universities, 4-H, Mr. Pottorff's personal connection to the Homemakers Assocations, and more. Later in the episode they discuss various agricultural topics like the Bird Flu, Beekeeping, and Cicadas. Near the end of the episode, Mr. Pottorff gives some advice and discusses the meaning of Rotary in his life. Thank you again Mr. Pottorff for being on the podcast. Links Mentioned: Website: https://carroll.ext.vt.edu/ Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Mr. Greg Watson, former U.S. Secret Service agent and Luke's relative. During the conversation, they discuss everything from counterfeit money production, the events of 9/11, protection details for U.S. Presidents, his trips to foreign countries like North Korea, to the testifying and clearance process, as well as a whole lot more. He also briefly mentioned his previous experience in the United States Postal Service, Galax Police Department, and experience trying to join the Virginia State Police. As they wrap up, Mr. Watson discusses retirement from the U.S.S.S., his book idea, and lessons that newer agents need to learn that are not taught in training. Thank you again Mr. Watson for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan is invited by Mr. Jerry Carter to host an educational panel interviewing Dr. Mark Burnette, Dr. Oliver McBride, Mrs. Shannon Dalton and Mr. Carter himself. During the conversation, each guest gives a brief overview of their educational career and history, their mentors, some programs they have worked with like sports, CTE, JROTC, and Band, as well as their perspective on the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on education. Additionally, Mr. Carter takes a moment to explain his mission, the Cavalier Kudos program, and what the A.S.P.N. stands for. As they wrap up, they discuss their "why" for staying in education. Thank you again everyone for being on the podcast and Mr. Carter for inviting The Ridge Podcast to be a part of his event. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Mrs. Katie Mattox, first-responder and head of the Southwest Virginia branch of the 21st Century Packhorse Library. They discuss her introduction to the medical field, some lessons she has learned during her career, and the importance of having her family work with her. Finally, they discuss the 21st Century Packhorse Library, its history, goals, mission, ways to support their cause, and why Appalachia is such a special place. Thank you again Mrs. Mattox for being on the podcast. Links Mentioned: SWVA Packhorse Library Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BQ2TEwbFo/ Website: https://packhorselibrarians.org/ Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Mr. Dwayne Harmon. He recounts his early life growing up in Carroll County, his spiritual and faith journey, some excerpts from his mission trip to Haiti, and more. Later in the episode, he and Luke reminisce on some stories from hunting and fishing, Mr. Harmon explains the infamous "Harmon Luck" or lack thereof. Finally, he talks about the value of helping others when one is able to and gives some life advice. Thank you again Mr. Harmon for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan and Luke interview Mrs. Vesta McGrady, Luke's grandmother. She recounts her early childhood during the great depression, her work on the family farm, her early education and church life, and more. Later, they discuss how she met her late husband, his time in the war, and her career in nursing. They end with some heart-warming anecdotes, culture, discussions on life, and advice. Thank you again Mrs. McGrady for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan interviews Mr. Andrew K. Jennings, Associate Law Professor at Emory University, host of the Business Scholarship Podcast, and Carroll County native. A graduate of Hampden-Sydney College and Duke University, Mr. Jennings has experience in Corporate Governance, Corporate Crime, Corporate Compliance, and Securities Regulation. Also, he was a Law Clerk under the Honorable Helene White in the U.S. Court of Appeals. As host of the Business Scholarship Podcast, he interviews individuals in business and legal fields. Finally, he is the founder of KFilings, a service that easily allows individuals to sign up for SEC EDGAR alerts. Thank you again Mr. Jennings for being on the podcast. Links Mentioned: Website: https://andrewkjennings.com/ Business Scholarship Podcast: https://andrewkjennings.com/podcast/ KFilings: https://kfilings.com/ 101 Lawyers: Attorney Appearances in Twitter v. Musk: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4275128 Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan interviews Rotary District Governor Mrs. Amelia Stansell to discuss Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking, and how to raise awareness. They also discuss what resources are available for reporters and victims, Mrs. Stansell's involvement with the Rotary Action Group Against Slavery, and more. Finally, they cover the symbolism behind the Blue Ribbon, Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and Rotary. Thank you again Mrs. Stansell for being on the podcast. Resources Mentioned: National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 Email: amelia@unstoppablefutures.com RAGAS Website: ragas.online Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan interviews Mr. Michael Farina, musician and band teacher at Carroll County High School. They discuss his introduction to music, his education, first jobs in music, and what it takes to direct a marching band, covering the choreography and coordination of it all. They also discuss his time in the Drum Corps, the work that goes into it, and culture. Finally, they discuss his love and career in music, bands that he plays in, and more. Thank you again Mr. Farina for being on the podcast. Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041

In this episode, Ethan interviews Mr. Josh Greer, active amateur radio operator and webmaster for the Briarpatch Amateur Radio Club. They discuss his introduction to the hobby, how he got his license, and how he was introduced to the Briarpatch club. They also cover some of his favorite subhobbies within Amateur Radio including Digital Modes, QRP/Low Power Operating, using satellites to contact people around the country, and bouncing signals off of the moon and meteor trails. This is a great episode for anyone who wants to learn more about Amateur Radio. Thank you again Mr. Greer for being on the podcast. Links mentioned: TrueHamFashion: https://www.truehamfashion.com/ Podcast Information: Website: https://TheRidgePodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theridgepodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/theridgepodcastinsta Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theridgepodcast.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theridgepodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theridgepodcast Email: theridgepodcast@gmail.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cKCltgfcCJjaipPQxKVGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ridge-podcast/id1675395041