Spirits In The Material World is a MidSouth podcast featuring Southern culture, local voices, music, business leaders, and inspiring stories from Memphis and the surrounding region. Hosted by Sean Blankenship, each episode features in-depth conversations with musicians, entrepreneurs, civic leaders, creatives, veterans, and culture-makers from Memphis and across the South. If you enjoy deep-dive conversations about the South, MidSouth culture, creative entrepreneurs, and the spirit of local communities, this show is for you. New episodes feature Memphis icons and rising voices!
Whiskey enthusiast Wyatt Blankenship explores the nuances of bourbon, rye, and scotch whiskeys, explaining ingredients and processes that demystify the spirit for new drinkers in this interview with Sean Blankenship.
21 Dec 2025
Behind the Trident: The Journey of a Navy SEAL Pioneer
Navy SEAL veteran Ronnie Hodges recounts his Vietnam War experiences, including BUD/S training and covert missions in Cambodia, in an interview with host Sean Blankenship, revealing the endurance required for elite operations.
18 Oct 2025
In the Room Where Soul Lives — Boo Mitchell and the Magic of Royal Studios”
Boo Mitchell discusses the enduring soul of Memphis music found within Royal Studios, highlighting its rich history and the magical essence infused in every note in this interview.
15 Aug 2025
Memphis Mojo: Ted Townsend on Big Wins, Economic Development, and xAI
Host Ted Townsend shares insights on Memphis's economic development and the innovative xAI project in this interview.
26 Jun 2025
Buffalo Beginnings to Memphis Memories: The Geoff Calkins Story
Journalist Geoff Calkins recounts his journey from Buffalo to Memphis, discussing his career in sports journalism, childhood experiences, and finding humor in challenging situations in this interview.
22 May 2025
Yankee Closer Hits a Home Run in Memphis - Andy O'Fee
The latest episode of 'Spirits in the Material World' features an engaging conversation between host Sean Blankenship and guest Andy O'Fee, known as the Yankee Closer. They delve into Andy's intriguing transition from Wall Street to Memphis, his rich childhood experiences in New Jersey, and a shared love for baseball. Reflecting on their generational differences in childhood play, the discussion touches on modern sports culture and community lifestyles. With the recent Delta storms setting the scene, the dialogue navigates through topics of family dynamics, sports history, and how past adventures influence current life choices and professional pursuits.
3 May 2025
Cantrell's World: Where Music Meets Whiskey
In this lively podcast episode, the hosts dive into the intersection of music and spirits with guest Kevin Cantrell, an artist and whiskey enthusiast. They explore the nuances of whiskey and tequila, the art of sipping, and the unexpected surprises that good spirits and music can offer. Kevin shares personal anecdotes, including his introduction to Pappy Van Winkle, and discusses the value of savoring flavors that linger in memory. The conversation casually navigates through various topics, weaving together tales of unique distillations, memorable musical performances, and the role of surprise in creativity.
25 Apr 2025
Memphis Magic and Hotel Majesty: Meet Doug Browne
In this engaging episode of 'Spirits in the Material World,' host Sean Blankenship introduces Doug Browne, President and General Manager of the iconic Peabody Hotel in Memphis. Browne shares his journey from growing up in the Caribbean with a military background to becoming a luminary in the hospitality industry. Listeners are treated to anecdotes about his passion for ballroom dancing, his aspirations of playing the piano to impress guests, and his deep roots within the Memphis community. Browne's experiences highlight the cultural richness of Memphis and his dedication to preserving its legacy while pushing forward with innovation.
8 Apr 2025
Ronnie Hodges - Navy Seal
President John F. Kennedy created the Navy Seals in 1964, a special operations unit of the United States Navy. Explore the story of one of the original Navy Seals and the Vietnam War.
30 Mar 2025
Is Whiskey Spelled With An "E?"
Enter into the world of Whiskey spirits. In This episode, we will explore the basics of Whiskey, different types, and how to approach your Whiskey journey.
23 Mar 2025
Intro - Spirits In The Material World
In 'Spirits in the Material World,' host Sean Blankenship embarks on an exploration of the Mid-South Delta's rich cultural heritage. Through deep-dive interviews, the podcast offers a captivating look into the lesser-known stories of Memphis and its surrounding areas, exploring themes of music, mysticism, and community. With a dedication to emotional storytelling, Sean artfully connects listeners with the authentic spirit of the region. Each episode invites you to discover the vivid tapestry of life, unraveling traditions and lifestyles shaped by the Delta's unique history. Join this enlightening journey, where real lives and local voices bring the past to life.
23 Mar 2025
Harmony and Heritage: Unearthing Mid South Stories
Welcome to Spirits In The Material World. I am your host, Sean Blankenship. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to forging connections between individuals and brands through the art of emotional storytelling. Today, as a small business owner in the greater Memphis, Tennessee, area—a region steeped in the traditions of American culture, music, and cuisine
Who has been a guest on Spirits In The Material World
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Wyatt Blankenship
Ronnie Hodges
Boo Mitchell
Geoff Calkins
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
8,141
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
7 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 43 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
46
Social presence
0
YouTube
68
Engagement
32
Contact Spirits In The Material World
Guest appearances
Books guests
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