Chicken Fried Women: Friendship, Kinship and the Stories that Made Us this Way.
The South is full of two things: stories and storytellers. The Chicken Fried Women podcast brings you both.
These are the stories told around kitchen tables, church pews and front porch swings. They are the tales we laughed at growing up and that have been repeated down through time.
Welcome to the friendships, the kinships and the stories that made us this way.
Ep 28 From Online to Real Life. A Friendship Story: Honey & Mikki
Guests Honey and Mikki discuss their friendship that grew from an online community with host Melissa Radke on the Chicken Fried Women podcast, highlighting the power of unexpected connections and personal growth in female friendships in this interview.
15 May 2025
Ep 27 The Journey of a Southern Comedian: Ellen Skrmetti
Summary
In this episode of Chicken Fried Women, host Melissa Radke welcomes comedian Ellen Skrmetti. They discuss their shared experiences as Southern women, the challenges of motherhood, and the journey into stand-up comedy. Ellen shares her insights on storytelling, the importance of humor in life, and how her faith influences her work. The conversation flows from personal anecdotes to the dynamics of family life, making it relatable and entertaining for listeners. In this engaging conversation, Melissa Radke and Ellen Skrmetti explore the journey of finding one's voice in comedy, the challenges of motherhood, and the importance of faith and perseverance in pursuing dreams. They share personal stories about overcoming stage fright, building a career in comedy, and the impact of their experiences on their families. The discussion highlights the significance of trusting the process and the humor found in parenting, ultimately encouraging women to pursue their passions regardless of life's challenges.
Takeaways
Melissa expresses excitement about having Ellen on the podcast.
Ellen shares her connection to their publisher and her love for her.
They discuss the rivalry between Mississippi State and Ole Miss.
Ellen talks about her experience with college choices for her daughter.
Melissa shares her daughter's commitment to the University of Arkansas.
Ellen humorously reflects on her childhood Halloween experiences.
They discuss the importance of humor in their lives and careers.
Ellen emphasizes the need for women to overcome fear in pursuing their passions.
Melissa shares her husband's encouragement for her to try stand-up comedy.
Ellen recounts her journey into stand-up and the classes she took. Second City helped Ellen build her confidence in comedy.
Taking classes can significantly improve your skills.
Ellen's journey into comedy was influenced by her faith.
Overcoming stage fright is a common challenge for performers.
Children benefit from seeing their parents pursue their dreams.
Trusting the process is essential in any career path.
Ellen emphasizes the importance of humor in parenting.
Women can successfully balance motherhood and career aspirations.
Personal stories can resonate deeply with audiences.
Ellen's experiences highlight the power of community support.
Check out Ellen Skrmetti in all the places:
Ellen’s website: https://ellenskrmetti.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justskrmetti (https://www.instagram.com/justskrmetti)
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justskrmetti
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13 May 2025
Ep 26 The Impact Laughter and Memories: Melissa Radke, Remi Radke, Annette Lee and Melba White
Incredible Bonuses! Have you ordered your copy of Melissa’s new book Chicken-Fried Women: Friendship, Kinship and The Women Who Made Us This Way?
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Summary
In this engaging conversation, Melissa Radke shares heartfelt stories about reconnecting with an old friend after 32 years, humorous encounters during a trip to Nashville, and the importance of laughter and community in her work as a comedian and speaker. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media, particularly TikTok, on perceptions of safety and reality, as well as reflections on personal growth and purpose in life.
Takeaways
Shared values and experiences create lasting bonds.
Humor can ease tension in unexpected situations.
Social media can amplify fears and misconceptions.
Laughter is a vital part of community and connection.
Public speaking can be a platform for deeper messages.
Personal growth often comes from unexpected encounters.
The importance of being true to one's purpose.
Books can evoke nostalgia and shared memories.
Comedy can serve as a vehicle for meaningful conversations.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.9 / 5
104 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 55 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
84
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
67
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Guest appearances
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