K-Town Connection

About K-Town Connection

Chris Hughes & Ryan Dayvault take you on a journey through their hometown, Kannapolis, N.C. with the K-Town Connection Podcast. This show will keep you up to date with the latest happenings from Downtown Kannapolis and the entire Kannapolis community, they'll inform you, but this show will also entertain you and certainly make you laugh with a little ROUGH TALK and old-school humor! Joined by broadcasting legend, Chuck "Dr. Dave from Z-100" Irvin and David Steele, we are your one stop shop for all things Kannapolis!

Publisher

ktownconnection

Category

business · history · news

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

1 Jul 2026

Latest episode

17 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   17 Oct 2026

   Kannapolis Sweet Street: Charlie Barber & Rhonda Barber | EP 82

   Charlie Barber and Rhonda Barber join the K-Town Connection to share the story behind Sweet Street, the Halloween gathering that brings thousands of children and families to downtown Kannapolis. Through Outside the Lines Ministry, they’re bringing neighbors together and showing what it means to care for a community.It started in 2015 with a phone call and a simple idea: create a place for families to come trick-or-treating together. In this episode, Charlie and Rhonda describe how Sweet Street grew into an event that welcomed approximately 12,000 people—including children, families, and vendors—at the previous year’s gathering.Behind the candy, music, and smiling faces are months of planning, generous local businesses, churches, sponsors, and a small but mighty team. The Barbers share what it takes to bring it all together and why welcoming people from every background matters to them.Their work continues long after the candy is gone. Hear how their ministry reaches beyond church walls, hosts community events, and connects faith partners with needs among students and staff at Kannapolis City Schools. Rhonda also shares her book, Best Protector Ever.Sweet StreetOctober 31 • 5–8 p.m.Downtown Kannapolis, on the research campusRain or shineFilmed in the Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage with the #RoughTalkCousins Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin and David Steele.Have a favorite Sweet Street memory? Share it in the comments, send this episode to a Kannapolis neighbor, and subscribe to K-Town Connection for more stories from the people who make our community special.

2. 

   14 Oct 2026

   CARDIACS Sponsors Sam Mayer’s No. 41: Charlotte Race Weekend Recap | K-Town Connection 81

   After taking viewers into the Charlotte Motor Speedway garage in Episode 80, K-Town Connection brings the story home for Episode 81. Recorded at the Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage in Kannapolis, the #RoughTalkCousins—Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes—join Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin and David Steele to welcome brothers Jonny and Jeff Cannon of CARDIACS Sports & Memorabilia. Together, they recap the weekend CARDIACS served as primary sponsor of Sam Mayer’s No. 41 Haas Factory Team Chevrolet in the Blue Cross NC 300, a NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race.The pink No. 41 carried a piece of Kannapolis racing history. Its design honored the 1956 K-2 Ford Victoria that Dale Earnhardt drove in his first NASCAR race at age 19, complete with the Dayvault Tune-Up & Brake Service name. For the Cannon and Dayvault families, seeing that familiar pink car and family name return to the track made this sponsorship deeply personal.Jonny and Jeff explain how an idea raised on the ride home from a race grew into months of planning. They recall the work behind the paint scheme, the team’s enthusiasm for its throwback crew uniforms, and the family and friends who gathered to share the experience. Weather changed the plans: the Blue Cross NC 300 moved from Saturday, October 10, to Sunday night, October 11, after rain canceled practice and qualifying.Once the race began, Mayer gave the group plenty to cheer about. He started fifth, finished third in Stage 1 and fourth in Stage 2, and climbed as high as second in the final stage. A flat tire in the closing laps left the No. 41 in 24th place. Everyone revisited the excitement of watching the car run near the front under the lights and the emotion of seeing their Kannapolis tribute on a national stage.Their father, Wayne Cannon, was part of the the studio audience during the conversation as the brothers reflect on the weekend, CARDIACS’ stores in downtown Kannapolis and Apex, and the shirts, hats and diecast collectibles connected to the car. It’s a conversation about racing, family and the hometown relationships that brought this tribute to life.Do you remember Dale Earnhardt’s pink K-2 car, or did you spot Sam Mayer’s No. 41 at Charlotte? Share your memory in the comments and join us for Episode 81.

3. 

   9 Oct 2026

   Sam Mayer & Dale Earnhardt’s #41 K-2 Tribute Car | Jonny Cannon & CARDIACS Sports & Memorabilia Ep80

   Jonny Cannon of CARDIACS Sports & Memorabilia is helping bring a piece of Kannapolis racing history back to Charlotte Motor Speedway. In this special trackside episode of K-Town Connection, Sam Mayer’s No. 41 Haas Factory Team Chevrolet wears pink in tribute to K-2, the car Dale Earnhardt drove early in his NASCAR career, with the Dayvault Tune-Up & Brake Service name on its side.RoughTalkCousins Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault walk through the garage, watch the car head toward inspection, and share why this tribute means so much to the Cannon and Dayvault families. It’s a proud connection between Kannapolis, the Earnhardt legacy, and a new generation of racing.David Steele and Chuck Irvin will rejoin the team when K-Town Connection returns to the studio for its fall season premiere.Recorded at Charlotte Motor Speedway.Hosts: Chris Hughes and Ryan DayvaultDo you remember the original pink K-2 car or Dale Earnhardt’s Kannapolis roots? Share your story in the comments, and subscribe for more K-Town connections.

4. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Dawn Evans Built Editions Bookstore into a Kannapolis Community Hub | EP 69

   Dawn Evans, owner of Editions Bookstore & Coffee Shop, joins K-Town Connection to share how she helped build a real community hub in downtown Kannapolis starting in 2017 — before the full revitalization boom.From volunteering with Kannapolis Arts and the downtown group, to opening a bookstore and coffee shop on Main Street, expanding into yarn, surviving COVID with a drive-thru, and hosting book crawls, author events, and thousands of visitors, Dawn talks about what it takes to create a welcoming space that locals and out-of-towners keep coming back to.Stop by Editions Bookstore & Coffee Shop in downtown Kannapolis for books, coffee, local authors, yarn, and a genuine community gathering spot. Tell them the cousins at K-Town Connection sent you.Filmed at the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Tune-Up & Brake Service Garage in Kannapolis.📍 Dayvault’s Garage – Kannapolis, NC 🎙️ Hosted by Chris Hughes & David Steele (filling in for Ryan Dayvault)Chapters: 00:00 Cold Open / Hilbish Ford 00:35 Rain Banter, Missing Hosts & Baby Updates 03:53 Welcome to EP 69 – Chris Hughes & David Steele 05:00 Meet Dawn Evans of Editions Bookstore & Coffee Shop 05:39 Opening Editions in Downtown Kannapolis in 2017 07:24 Taking a Chance on Main Street Before the Revitalization Boom 08:41 Drive-Thru, COVID Survival & Nine Years Later 12:47 From Used Books to New Books, Gifts & Local Art 13:18 Building the Yarn Shop by Hand 15:18 Bucky Covington, Local Energy & Foot Traffic 20:24 Book Crawls Drawing Thousands from Across the Region 22:11 Why Dawn Chose Kannapolis After Houston 29:38 Favorite Books & Author Stories 31:13 Sponsored Authors, Onyx Storm Event & Big Releases 34:41 Editions as a True Downtown Kannapolis Anchor 35:40 Knit Nights, Partnerships & Community Space 37:25 Closing Thanks with Dawn Evans 38:51 Carolina Pickleball Club + OutroLike, subscribe, and keep supporting the people and places that make Kannapolis home.

5. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Erin Connor & Erica Earnhardt-Wilson of Spilling the Southern Tea | Kannapolis Businesses | EP 70

   Erin Connor & Erica Earnhardt-Wilson of Spilling the Southern Tea join Ryan Dayvault (back from twins duty!), Chris Hughes, and Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin for Episode 70 of the K-Town Connection.Filmed at the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage in Kannapolis, the ladies share how their popular social media brand started in a local coffee shop and grew into a platform highlighting restaurants, small businesses, events, and hidden gems across Kannapolis and Cabarrus County. From positive promotion (never harsh reviews) to the real power of social media for local owners, this episode is packed with community pride, laughs, and local history.Ryan also gives an update on life as a new father of twin girls and the incredible support the family received from the Kannapolis community. Plus stories from The Pub, favorite local spots, and plenty of K-Town nostalgia.Follow Spilling the Southern Tea:Facebook: Spilling the Southern TeaInstagram: @spillingthesouthernteaTikTok: @spillingthesoutherntea00:00 Cold Open – Carolina Pickleball Club00:32 Welcome to Episode 70 & Ryan Dayvault Returns02:10 Fatherhood, Twins & Kannapolis Community Support05:50 Theme Song & Re-Intro at Dayvault’s Garage06:36 Meet Erin Connor & Erica Earnhardt-Wilson08:00 How Spilling the Southern Tea Began at Addition’s Coffee Shop10:45 Showcasing Kannapolis Restaurants & Small Businesses14:15 The Power of Positive Social Media Marketing17:30 Preserving Local History Through Digital Storytelling19:18 Stories from The Pub & Dayvault Family Roots25:00 Local Favorites, Downtown Events & Hidden Gems32:00 Jalapeño Poppers, Pickled Eggs & Pub Nostalgia34:37 How to Find Spilling the Southern Tea Online36:30 Closing Thanks & Banter38:45 Episode Wrap-Up39:17 Hilbish Ford – Your Cabarrus County DestinationGuests:Erin Connor – Spilling the Southern TeaErica Earnhardt-Wilson – Spilling the Southern TeaHosted by:Chris HughesRyan DayvaultChuck “Dr. Dave” IrvinFilmed at the Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage – Kannapolis, NCWatch, share, and support the local businesses that make Kannapolis special. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of the K-Town Connection!#Kannapolis #SpillingTheSouthernTea #KTownConnection #CabarrusCounty #SupportLocal

6. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Steve Post & Steve Gantt: NASCAR Broadcasting Legends & Kannapolis Roots | EP 71

   Steve Post (Motor Racing Network / Charlotte Motor Speedway) and Kannapolis motorsports historian Steve Gantt join the Rough Talk Cousins for a deep dive into NASCAR broadcasting history, local racing roots, and the future of the sport — all from Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage in K-Town.This episode also marks the official debut of Big Dave’s SportsCenter with David Steele joining the team full-time.Steve Post shares his journey from a young fan in Pennsylvania listening to races on a transistor radio to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in motorsports. He reflects on lessons from legendary broadcasters Barney Hall, Ken Squier, and Eli Gold, plus behind-the-scenes stories from decades on pit road and the charter flights.The conversation pays tribute to two recently lost icons — Ned Jarrett and Kyle Busch — including Jarrett’s strong Kannapolis connections through local mechanics, race teams, and community history. The group also covers the evolution of NASCAR, the next wave of talent coming through Millbridge Speedway, and why Kannapolis remains one of racing’s most important hometowns.Chapters:0:00 Cold Open / Hilbish Ford0:36 Welcome to Historic Dayvault’s Garage – Full House1:56 Big Dave’s SportsCenter Debuts6:32 Episode 71 – Introducing Steve Post & Steve Gantt7:30 How the Two Steves Met at Concord Motorsport Park11:30 Steve Post’s Journey from Pennsylvania to the Booth15:00 Kannapolis Racing Roots & Local TV Memories18:40 Path to Motor Racing Network20:30 Lessons from Barney Hall, Ken Squier & Eli Gold29:00 Flying with Barney Hall & Garage Ethics34:30 Remembering Gentleman Ned Jarrett39:30 Kyle Busch Memories & Lasting Impact44:20 Next Generation at Millbridge Speedway52:00 Kannapolis Pride & Community Connections56:19 Pit Road Pickleball & Funny Road Stories59:00 Closing Thanks1:00:03 Episode 71 in the Books + Carolina Pickleball ClubHosts: Chris Hughes, Ryan Dayvault, Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin & David Steele📍 Recorded at Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage – Kannapolis, NCIf you love NASCAR history, Kannapolis stories, and conversations with the people who shaped the sport, this one’s for you. Like, subscribe, and share with a fellow racing fan.Follow K-Town Connection on all platforms and visit ktownconnection.com.

7. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Future K-Town Hosts? Ava & Aubree Dayvault (The K2 Twins) Debut | EP 72

   Ava & Aubree Dayvault (the K2 Twins) make their official K-Town Connection debut!In this special mini-episode filmed at Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage in Kannapolis, Ryan Dayvault brings his two-month-old twin daughters to the set for the first time. Sporting custom K-Town Connection onesies, Ava and Aubree join the crew for a lighthearted Father’s Day episode full of firsts, laughs, and pure K-Town pride.Cousin Chris Hughes gets his first hold of Aubree (he held Ava the night she was born), the guys talk future hot seats, and Ryan proves he’s already a sub-minute diaper-changing expert. At just over nine pounds each and two minutes apart, the girls already feel right at home in the garage.00:00 Theme Song – K-Town Strong02:05 Cold Open & Little Features for Little People02:48 Meet the K2 Twins – Ava & Aubree Dayvault05:10 Two Months Old, Family Stories & Telling Them Apart09:00 Diaper Changing Expert & Garage Laughs12:30 Happy Father’s Day Closing13:50 Sponsors – Hilbish Ford + Carolina Pickleball Club📍 Filmed at Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Tune-Up & Brake Service Garage in Kannapolis, NC🎙️ Featuring: Chris Hughes • Ryan Dayvault • Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin • David SteeleIf you love local Kannapolis stories, mill-town roots, and real community connection, hit subscribe and turn on notifications. The next generation of K-Town is already in the building.#KTownConnection #Kannapolis #Dayvault #K2Twins

8. 

   6 Oct 2026

   K-Town Connection Ep. 78: Pizza For Good

   In Episode 78, the K-Town Connection Crew paid a visit to Corner Crust Pizza to learn how they’re using pizza to make a difference in the fight against pediatric cancer.This short but powerful episode highlights a great local business supporting an even greater cause. Watch the show, then make a trip to Corner Crust Pizza this month, enjoy a slice, and help support the cause.Local pizza. Local people. A meaningful impact.

9. 

   6 Oct 2026

   What’s Cooking at Provisions on Main? Kenny Blake & Anna-Claire Blake | EP 79

   We’re on scene in Kannapolis’ Midway neighborhood for EP 79! Ryan and David sit down with Kenny and Anna-Claire Blake at Provisions on Main Market & Deli to talk about sandwiches, local makers, and their hope to create a place where neighbors gather.Chris is behind the camera—and John the Food Critic makes a surprise appearance when the food comes out. There’s a little Midway history in the conversation, too.Watch EP 79 here on K-Town Connection. What’s your go-to deli sandwich?

10. 

    6 Oct 2026

    Hollywood Comes to Kannapolis: Benjamin McGuire & Joanne Hock on the Charles Cannon Doc | EP 76

    Benjamin McGuire — the man who helped get K-Town Connection off the ground from Episode 1 — finally steps in front of the camera, bringing acclaimed Charlotte director Joanne Hock with him.Joanne Hock — directed the Charles Cannon documentary that played at the historic Gem Theater, and the conversation dives deep into Kannapolis mill history, local preservation, antique radios, and the stories that still shape this town.Cannon Documentary:https://vimeo.com/288776924Wednesdays at the Gem Theatre Tease: https://vimeo.com/1062072136DISCONNECTED tease:https://vimeo.com/1217477241📍 Filmed at Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Tune-Up & Brake Service Garage in Kannapolis, North Carolina🎙️ Hosted by the #RoughTalkCousins Chris Hughes & Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin Special Guests: Benjamin McGuire & Joanne Hock0:00 – Cold Open: Mayberry Vibes, Episode 76 Confirmation & Local Updates4:50 – Heart of the K-Town Connection6:28 – Welcome to Episode 76 at Dayvault’s Garage7:18 – Benjamin McGuire: The Man Who Made This Show Possible7:46 – Introducing Director Joanne Hock9:25 – Joanne's Journey & the Early Days of K-Town Connection12:59 – Joanne Directed the Charles Cannon Documentary at the Gem Theater17:17 – Joanne’s Family Roots in Film Exhibition & Super 825:08 – Deeper into the Cannon Documentary & Local Stories29:50 – The Miracle That the Gem Theater Survived31:41 – Radio Station History Next to the Gem Theater47:10 – Joanne’s Current Project: Screens, Kids & Addiction54:52 – Ron’s Restored Whataburger Menu Board from Concord1:01:07 – Ryan's Antique Radios & Harold Holbrook of Kannapolis1:03:40 – Closing Thoughts + Benjamin gives a shout-out to Doctor Dave1:05:01 – Carolina Pickleball ClubIf you love Kannapolis history, the mills, the Gem Theater, or just the people who quietly keep this town’s stories alive, this one’s for you. Share it with someone who still remembers when the whistle blew.Watch more local legends: https://www.youtube.com/@KTownConnection Website: https://ktownconnection.com/

11. 

    10 Aug 2026

    Hardee’s Biscuits Got Him Inside the Mills: Chad Mitchell’s Untold Story | Ep 75

    In Episode 75 of the K-Town Connection, lifelong Kannapolis photographer and artist Chad Mitchell opens his archive of more than 25,000 photographs that document the demolition of Cannon Mills — the place that built this town.As the massive mill complex disappeared, Chad decided someone had to record what was being lost. What began as a personal mission became one of the most important visual records of Kannapolis history ever created. He takes us inside the abandoned buildings, shares how he gained access (Hardee’s biscuits helped), and reveals the stories behind some of his most powerful images — including the fall of the iconic water tower, a once-in-a-lifetime balloon ride over the complex, and the unforgettable photograph of his late father standing in the partially demolished mill, looking out at the rubble of the place where he had worked for decades.Chad also looks back at an incredible creative career that includes photographing Appalachian State football during its national championship years, serving as team photographer for Kannapolis professional baseball, working with NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program, and creating artwork connected to Dale Earnhardt.His guiding philosophy has always been simple:Tell as much of the story as possible in one shutter click.Today, as a new generation grows up in a Kannapolis that looks nothing like the mill town their parents and grandparents knew, these photographs have become even more valuable. They don’t just preserve buildings — they preserve the people, the work, the memories, and the identity of a community that was forever changed.This episode is exactly what the K-Town Connection is about: preserving Kannapolis history by telling the stories of the people who lived it.📸 Browse and purchase Chad’s photography and artwork: ChadMitchell.com📍 Filmed at Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Tune-Up & Brake Service Garage in Kannapolis, North Carolina🎙️ Hosted by the #RoughTalkCousins Chris Hughes & Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin and David SteeleChapters0:00 – Intro & Local Updates5:32 – Welcome to Episode 755:52 – Introducing Chad Mitchell7:02 – Growing Up in Kannapolis12:00 – How Chad Began Documenting the Mills14:00 – Getting Access with Hardee’s Biscuits17:18 – Inside the Abandoned Mill Buildings19:24 – Over 25,000 Photographs25:10 – The Darkest Place in the Mill27:20 – “Lifeline” – The Railroad Light Painting37:15 – Where to See & Buy the Photos38:21 – Kiln-Dried Maple Floors & the Sign39:49 – Baseball Photography Years43:45 – The Dale Earnhardt Artwork46:06 – The “Quality Work Means Job Security” Sign53:45 – The Balloon Ride Over Cannon Mills56:15 – The Photograph of Chad’s Father59:48 – Closing Thoughts & Thank You

12. 

    10 Jul 2026

    Lu Graham: How One Band Director Changed Generations in Kannapolis | EP 74

    Lu Graham spent 32 years building one of North Carolina’s most respected high school band programs — the legendary Big Green Machine at A.L. Brown.In this special episode of the K-Town Connection, the #RoughTalkCousins sit down with the retired band director at Historic Dayvault’s Garage to hear the stories behind the music, the mentorship, and the lasting impact she left on generations of Kannapolis students.From recruiting kids in elementary school to leading performances across the country, Lu shares what it took to create a program that became a source of pride for the entire community. Former student David Steele also joins the conversation with personal memories from his time in the Big Green Machine.📍 Filmed at Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Tune-Up & Brake Service Garage in Kannapolis, NC🎙️ Hosted by Chris Hughes, Ryan Dayvault, Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin & David SteeleChapters:0:00 – Cold Open9:47 – Welcome to the Show12:50 – Introducing Lu Graham13:24 – Salisbury Roots & Early Influences16:18 – Kentucky Years & Path to Kannapolis20:13 – Arriving at A.L. Brown in 198425:16 – Fundraising the Big Green Machine30:11 – Tours, Parades & Big Performances35:42 – Uniforms, Glowworms & Show Design39:41 – The Joy of Teaching Beginners46:09 – Building Camaraderie & Student Impact54:57 – Mickey Driver Stories1:00:46 – Closing ReflectionsIf you marched with the Big Green Machine, had a family member in the band, or just love Kannapolis history, this one’s for you.Like, subscribe, and share to help us keep telling the stories that made our town special.

13. 

    1 Jul 2026

    🇺🇸 Chris Hughes, Ryan Dayvault & Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin Celebrate the 4th in Kannapolis | EP 73 🇺🇸

    Happy 4th of July from Kannapolis! The Rough Talk Cousins Chris Hughes & Ryan Dayvault, Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, and David Steele (Big Dave) celebrate Independence Day with a special holiday episode from Historic Dayvault’s Dyno Tune-Up & Brake Service Garage.We’re talking all things Fourth of July — fireworks, parades, festivals, and local events happening across Kannapolis, Faith, Harrisburg, and beyond. Dr. Dave delivers the official scorcher forecast, the guys settle the great burnt-hot-dog debate, share Lake Norman plans, run down the big Faith lineup (Veterans Parade, The Tones, Andy and Onita Band), and dig into classic racing memories including go-kart battles, a near-dead-heat with Ron, and the legendary takeout of Mount Pleasant Mayor Dale Udy.As America celebrates 250 years, we wish everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July. Thank you to all the men and women who have served our country and continue to protect the freedoms we enjoy every day.Recorded live at Dayvault’s Garage in Kannapolis, NC.Hosts: Chris Hughes & Ryan Dayvault (The Rough Talk Cousins)K-Town News & Weather: Chuck “Dr. Dave” IrvinBig Dave: David SteeleChapters:00:00 Cold Open / Hilbish Ford Sponsor00:56 K-Town Theme Song – Mill Town Pride02:34 Show Open: Rough Talk Cousins + Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin03:13 Burnt Hot Dogs & Summer Vibes03:32 Dr. Dave’s Scorching July 4th Forecast03:55 Boat Plans on Lake Norman07:08 Area Fireworks & Events Roundup10:25 What’s Happening in Faith, NC12:01 The Tones, Veterans Parade & Andy and Onita Band14:46 Remembering Doug Winstead & Life on the Road18:00 Tribute Bands: Tim McGraw & Aerosmith Covers22:02 The Embers & More Local Music27:15 Go-Kart Racing Stories from the Track House31:44 Co-Winners with Ron – Competitive Legends33:26 Taking Out Mayor Dale Udy35:03 Mo Logan, Allison Stockwell & Racing Memories35:59 Closing Thanks to Dr. Dave & Big Dave36:10 Be Safe This Weekend + Spirit of ’76 Bell36:35 Carolina Pickleball Club🎆 We hope you and your family have a wonderful Independence Day weekend!Watch Episode 73 now and let us know how you’re celebrating the Fourth in the comments.Like, subscribe, and tell a friend from Kannapolis or Cabarrus County.Tell ’em the Rough Talk Cousins at the K-Town Connection sent you.🇺🇸 Happy Birthday, America! 🇺🇸

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.