Tennessee Unpacked Podcast

About Tennessee Unpacked Podcast

Tennessee Unpacked is a storytelling-driven podcast that highlights the people, places, events, and experiences that make Southern Middle Tennessee one of the most authentic and compelling regions to visit. Recorded live at The Mulehouse in Columbia, Tennessee, the show brings together local voices, industry leaders, creators, and community influencers to share their stories, promote their work, and showcase what makes this region special. Hosted by Ryan French of Experience Tennessee alongside a rotation of co-hosts from the team from Visit Columbia, Kellye Murphy, Kelli Johnson, Lexi Dearborn, and Makenna McGowan, each episode is designed to feel like a natural, engaging conversation—giving guests a platform to connect with both locals and travelers in a meaningful way. Through a mix of personal storytelling, regional insight, and thoughtful conversation, Tennessee Unpacked aims to inspire exploration, support local businesses, take a deep dive into events, and celebrate the culture and character of Southern Middle Tennessee.

Publisher

STP Productions

Category

society & culture · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

1 Apr 2026

Latest episode

1 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   1 Oct 2026

   Off the Beaten Path with Silas Stoddart – Ep. 14

   On this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we're sitting down with Silas Stoddart, Rural Tourism Program Manager for the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, to talk about the people, places, and experiences that make rural Tennessee worth exploring. Silas shares more about his work with rural communities across the state and how helping a destination grow often starts with identifying what makes that community unique and leaning into it. From small-town stories and local traditions to outdoor recreation, we unpack how communities can turn what they already have into something visitors want to experience. We also dive into Bike TN, the state's growing cycling initiative that encourages visitors to experience Tennessee's backroads, small towns, and scenic landscapes on two wheels. Silas gives us a look at the work behind the initiative and how cycling can create new opportunities for rural communities across the state. And for Silas, the connection between tourism, community, and culture goes beyond his day job. We also talk about his involvement with the Council of Americana Roots Music and Jammin at Hippie Jack's, a family-rooted music festival dedicated to preserving Americana roots music and giving back to the surrounding Appalachian community. Tune in as we unpack rural tourism, bikes, music, and what can happen when a community embraces the things that make it unlike anywhere else. LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media Bike TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bike.tennessee/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExploreBikeTennessee Website: https://bike.tnvacation.com/ Jammin' at Hippie Jacks: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamminathippiejacks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamminAtHippieJacks

2. 

   17 Sept 2026

   A Seat at Mama Mila's Table with Mila Martinico – Ep. 13

   On this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we're sitting down with Mila Martinico, owner of Mama Mila's, the beloved Italian restaurant located in Columbia's Arts District, to hear the story behind the woman, the restaurant, and everything that brought her to where she is today. Mila shares more about her journey, what inspired Mama Mila's, and how the restaurant has grown into a special part of Columbia's local dining scene. From creating a place where people can gather around good food to becoming part of the growing Arts District, Mila takes us behind the scenes of what it takes to bring her vision to life. And she's not slowing down anytime soon! Mila also gives us a look at some exciting things on the horizon and what guests can look forward to next from Mama Mila's. Tune in for a conversation filled with good food, big dreams, and the story behind one of Columbia's most unique local restaurants. Whether you've already found a favorite dish at Mama Mila's or haven't made it through the doors just yet, this is an episode you won't want to miss! LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW MAMA MILA'S: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mama.milas/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MamaMilaTN

3. 

   3 Sept 2026

   The Art of Tourism with Kristin Luna – Ep. 12

   On this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we're sitting down with journalist, photographer, travel storyteller, and Tennessee native Kristin Luna to talk about the journey that took her around the world, and eventually led her back home to Tennessee. From building a career in travel and media to working alongside communities to strengthen tourism and tell the stories that make each destination unique, Kristin shares how her experiences have shaped the work she does today. We also dive into Do More Art, the nonprofit she founded, and their mission to bring public art and creative placemaking to communities across Tennessee. Tune in as Kristin shares what she's learned from years of travel, why she believes in the power of tourism and storytelling, and how public art can make an impact on the communities we call home. From traveling the world to helping Tennessee communities tell their stories in creative ways, Kristin brings a unique perspective to the conversation. If you love travel, tourism, public art, or discovering what makes a community special, this is an episode you won't want to miss! LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media Check Out Kristin Luna's Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lunaticatlarge/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristinluna/ Check Out Do More Art's Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muralseverywhere/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DoMoreArtEvents

4. 

   20 Aug 2026

   Behind the Chair with Noah Peters, The Singing Barber - Ep. 11

   On this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we're sitting down with Noah Peters, better known as The Singing Barber, to talk about the journey that's allowed him to build a life around two things he loves: barbering and music. From growing his career and sharing his music to recently opening the doors to his own barbershop, Noah takes us behind the scenes of the hard work, opportunities, and people that have shaped his story. Tune in as Noah shares what life looks like both behind the chair and behind the microphone, the story of bringing his new shop to life, and what's next as he continues building his business while pursuing his music career. Whether you know him as Noah Peters or The Singing Barber, this episode is a look at the person behind the name—and what can happen when you find a way to turn your passions into a career. LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media The Singing Barber: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theesingingbarber/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheeSingingBarber The Singing Barbers Shop: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DZ-mgRsT9VN/ Website: https://booking.mangomint.com/thesingingbarberbarbershop

5. 

   13 Aug 2026

   Beyond the Trail: Inside Tennessee State Parks

   On this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we're exploring the natural beauty, unforgettable experiences, and endless opportunities for adventure waiting at Tennessee State Parks. From scenic trails and peaceful getaways to outdoor recreation and one-of-a-kind destinations, we're taking a closer look at what makes our state parks such a special part of Tennessee. Joining us is Morgan Bologeorges, Director of Marketing, Revenue, and Guest Experience for Tennessee State Parks, who gives us an inside look at the parks and the experiences they offer visitors across the state. Morgan shares what makes Tennessee State Parks unique, how they create memorable experiences for guests, and why there's always something new to discover. Whether you're an avid adventurer, looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, or simply ready to explore more of the Volunteer State, this episode will inspire you to get outside and experience the beauty of Tennessee State Parks for yourself! LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media

6. 

   23 Jul 2026

   Why Is Fruit Tea Everywhere in Columbia, Tennessee? - Ep. 9

   What is fruit tea? And why is it everywhere in Columbia, Tennessee? On this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we're diving into the story behind Columbia's signature drink. From what fruit tea is and how it became a local tradition to why it continues to appear on menus throughout town, we're exploring the history, culture, and community behind every glass. Joining us is Betsy Wood, co-owner of Towne Cafe, who shares the restaurant's journey to Maury County, where they quickly discovered that fruit tea is a staple of the local dining scene. Tune in to hear how encouragement from loyal customers inspired them to not only create their own drink recipe but to add a refreshing twist to the iconic drink. Whether you've been drinking fruit tea for years or you're just discovering Columbia's signature sip, this episode offers a refreshing look at one of Middle Tennessee's most beloved traditions. LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media

7. 

   9 Jul 2026

   Craig Campbell: Building a Legacy Beyond Country Music - Ep. 8

   This week on Tennessee Unpacked, we're sitting down with country music artist Craig Campbell to talk about the journey that's taken him from the stage to the restaurant business. From the stories behind his music career and some of his biggest hits to the inspiration behind Grindstone Cowboy, Craig shares what it's been like building a brand that goes far beyond country music. We're talking about life on the road, opening multiple restaurant locations, balancing family and business, and what's next as Grindstone Cowboy continues to grow. Whether you're a longtime country music fan, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply love hearing the stories behind successful people, this episode is one you won't want to miss. LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: I nstagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media

8. 

   25 Jun 2026

   How One Event Can Bring a Community Together - Ep. 7

   What does it take to bring a community together? On this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we're taking a closer look at the event that has helped shape downtown Columbia into one of Tennessee's most vibrant communities. Joined by Bryson Leach, we dive into the story behind First Fridays, how it got started, and why thousands of people continue to show up month after month. From supporting local businesses and building community connections to creating a destination that people want to be a part of, Bryson shares what it takes to turn a simple event into a community tradition. We're talking growth, partnerships, local pride, and the power of bringing people together. This episode is one you won't want to miss! LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media

9. 

   11 Jun 2026

   Beyond the Barrel: Exploring the Tennessee Whiskey Trail - Ep. 6

   Tennessee whiskey is more than a spirit. It's a gateway to some of the state's most memorable experiences. In this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we explore the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and the unique destinations, road trips, and small-town adventures that have made it one of the state's most exciting travel experiences. From iconic distilleries and hidden gems to local restaurants, live music, and outdoor recreation, we unpack what makes Tennessee a one-of-a-kind destination for travelers looking to experience the authentic character of the Volunteer State. Along the way, we discuss what sets Tennessee whiskey apart, why experience-driven travel is on the rise, and how visitors can turn a simple distillery stop into a weekend getaway filled with history, hospitality, and unforgettable Tennessee stories. Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast, a road trip lover, or simply looking for your next Tennessee adventure, this episode will inspire you to hit the road and explore. LISTEN TO TN UNPACKED: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN UNPACKED: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media FOLLOW THE TN WHISKEY TRAIL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tnwhiskeytrail/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TNWhiskeyTrail

10. 

    26 May 2026

    Pretty Old Places with Amy Edmiston Ep. 5

    This week on Tennessee Unpacked, we're diving into the story behind Pretty Old Places and its founder, Amy Edmiston, whose passion for historic homes has captured the hearts of followers across Tennessee and beyond. From cemetery walks during 2020 to chasing Queen Anne Victorians down back roads, we unpack how one woman turned a love of old architecture into a movement that's preserving Tennessee's vanishing history one home at a time. We're sharing fascinating local history, jaw-dropping architectural finds, unforgettable encounters with property owners, and why preserving these stories matters more than ever as historic homes continue to disappear. This episode is full of history, hometown stories, and Tennessee pride you won't want to miss. LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media

11. 

    14 May 2026

    America 250: From Muletown to the White House - Ep. 4

    This week on Tennessee Unpacked, we're diving into the story of Columbia, Tennessee and its connection to America's 250th anniversary celebration. From the legacy of President James K. Polk to Columbia's role in shaping Tennessee history, we unpack how one small town became part of a much bigger American story. We're sharing fascinating local history, presidential connections, community pride, and why USA 250 is more than just a national celebration. This episode is full of history, hometown stories, and Tennessee pride you won't want to miss. LISTEN TO TN Unpacked: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tennessee-unpacked-podcast/id1889906823 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RuwxZRVvvKhWAwp9h19OY FOLLOW TN Unpacked: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennesseeunpacked/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php FOLLOW EXPERIENCE TN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_tn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceTN1/ FOLLOW VISIT COLUMBIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcolumbia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcolumbiatn FOLLOW SPREAD THE POSITIVE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spreadthepositive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadthepositive.net FOLLOW THE MULEHOUSE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themulehousetn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMulehouse Business Inquiries: https://www.experiencetn.com/media

12. 

    16 Apr 2026

    Antiquing in Tennessee: Finding Hidden Gems with Vintage Remnants (Remy Watters)

    In this episode of Tennessee Unpacked, we sit down with Remy Watters, the creative force behind Vintage Remnants (@vintageremnants), to dive into the world of antiquing, thrifting, and uncovering hidden treasures in unexpected places. Remy shares her incredible journey of turning a passion for vintage finds into a thriving platform—helping people see the value, history, and beauty in items that might otherwise be overlooked. From flea markets to estate sales, this conversation is packed with insight into how to spot unique pieces, build a brand around creativity, and embrace the art of the hunt. Whether you're a seasoned thrifter or just getting started, this episode will inspire you to look at "old stuff" in a whole new way. We also explore how experiences like antiquing tie into the culture and charm of Southern Middle Tennessee—and why it continues to be a destination full of hidden gems. 📍 CONNECT WITH REMY / VINTAGE REMNANTS Follow Remy and Vintage Remnants: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vintageremnants 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vintageremnants 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vintageremnants 🎙️ ABOUT TENNESSEE UNPACKED Tennessee Unpacked is a storytelling-driven podcast highlighting the people, places, and experiences that make Southern Middle Tennessee one of the most authentic regions to explore. 🤝 BROUGHT TO YOU BY 🌐 Experience Tennessee – https://experiencetn.com 🏛️ Visit Columbia – https://visitcolumbiatn.com 🎙️ Spread The Positive Productions – https://spreadthepositive.net 🔔 FOLLOW FOR MORE Subscribe for more stories, local spotlights, and hidden gems across Tennessee. #TennesseeUnpacked #VintageRemnants #Thrifting #Antiquing #HiddenGems #MiddleTennessee #VisitColumbiaTN #ExperienceTN #SpreadThePositive

13. 

    2 Apr 2026

    Episode 2: We're Unpacking Mule Day for You

    In Episode 2 of Tennessee Unpacked, we dive headfirst into one of Tennessee's most iconic traditions, Mule Day. Join Ryan French alongside Lexie Dearborn and Kelli Johnson as they sit down with Brady Carr, a 29-year Mule Day organizing veteran, to break down everything you need to know, do, and see. From can't-miss events to insider tips, this is your guide to experiencing Mule Day like a local. We also take a look back at the roots of this beloved celebration. What started as a small community effort in 1974, led by the Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club, has grown into a week-long event that draws more than 200,000 visitors to Columbia, Tennessee. Originally revived as a fundraiser for the community, Mule Day now generates an estimated $10 million economic impact for the region and stands as a testament to the power of local tradition and volunteer spirit. You will hear how a dedicated group of about 100 club members, along with a 40-person volunteer committee and countless community partners, continue to bring Mule Day to life each year. We also sit down with Bonnie Esslinger, owner of Bleu 32, who shares a local's guide to navigating Mule Day, including where to go, what to eat, and how to make the most of your visit. To wrap things up, Amy Fish from The Mulehouse joins the show to talk about the Mulehouse Backlot Country Fest happening April 11. The lineup includes Priscilla Block, Shane Profitt, Katie Austin, and the Bandana Brothers. Tickets are available now at TheMulehouse.com. If you are planning your trip or just curious what all the hype is about, this episode is your all-access pass to Mule Day.

14. 

    1 Apr 2026

    Episode 1: Nice to Meet Y'all!

    Welcome to the very first episode of Tennessee Unpacked! In this debut, we are kicking things off the right way by introducing the voices behind the mic and the stories behind the region. Get to know all of your hosts: Ryan French of Experience Tennessee, along with a dynamic rotation from Visit Columbia and Columbia Main Street, including Kellye Murphy, Lexie Dearborn, Makenna McGowan, and Kelli Johnson. This crew brings the heart, personality, and insider perspective that will guide you through everything South Central Tennessee has to offer. We are also setting the stage, literally, at one of Columbia's most iconic venues, The Mulehouse. Joined by Amy Fish, Director of Concerts and Private Events, we take you inside this stunning 55,500 sq. ft. multi-use entertainment space located in the heart of historic downtown Columbia. Once the First Baptist Church, built in 1936, The Mulehouse has been beautifully restored, blending rich history with modern energy, complete with original stained-glass windows, exposed brick, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Consider this your front porch introduction. Pull up a chair, get comfortable, and nice to meet y'all.

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