- 18
- Episodes
- 2025
- First episode
About The Christmas Connection
🎄✨ Step into the wonder of Christmas—anytime of the year! Hosted by seasoned broadcaster Dawn Mac, The Christmas Connection Podcast isn’t just about the holidays…it’s about reliving the magic that makes them unforgettable. Each episode invites you to laugh, reminisce, and celebrate through festive stories, movie and music highlights, and conversations that warm the heart. If you believe Christmas is more than a season—it’s a feeling—you’ve just found your new favorite podcast. Tune in and make every day feel like a holiday with The Christmas Connection.
- Publisher
- The Christmas Connection
- Category
- tv & film
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- Yes
- First episode
- 18 Oct 2025
- Latest episode
- 12 Dec 2025
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
12 Dec 2025
Emma Johnson Talks “Christmas in Alaska” — Lifetime’s New Holiday Movie
Get ready for a heartwarming conversation with actress Emma Johnson, star of the new Lifetime holiday movie Christmas in Alaska, premiering December 12. In this cozy interview, Emma shares what drew her to this story, the magic of filming in a snowy, small-town setting, and the behind-the-scenes moments that made this project unforgettable. We also talk about her favorite holiday traditions, the character she brings to life, and what viewers can expect when they tune in. If you love feel-good Christmas movies, this episode is for you! ✨ Don’t forget to watch Christmas in Alaska on Lifetime, December 12. ✨ Subscribe for more festive interviews and holiday storytelling!
6 Dec 2025
A Conversation with Dean Butler: Little House Memories, Legacy & Timeless Storytelling
Step back into the heartwarming world of Little House on the Prairie as Dean Butler—beloved for his iconic role as Almanzo Wilder—joins Dawn Mac for a meaningful and engaging conversation on The Christmas Connection. In this episode, Dean reflects on: ✨ His unforgettable years on Little House on the Prairie ✨ The creative legacy of Michael Landon ✨ How storytelling continues to shape his life and career ✨ Why Little House still resonates deeply with fans decades later ✨ His current projects and the enduring impact of classic television This interview is warm, nostalgic, and full of insight — a true gift for longtime fans and new listeners alike. 🎧 Listen on all streaming platforms 📺 Watch on The Christmas Connection YouTube channel If you love heartfelt stories, timeless TV, or behind-the-scenes reflections from one of the m
28 Nov 2025
Nikki DeLoach: Inside A Grand Ole Opry Christmas and Her Mission to Make a Difference
In this special episode, Dawn Mac sits down with beloved Hallmark star Nikki DeLoach for a heartfelt and deeply meaningful conversation. Nikki opens up about her brand-new holiday film, A Grand Ole Opry Christmas, where she returns to her musical roots and steps into the legacy of one of the most iconic stages in American history. She shares beautiful behind-the-scenes insights, moments that moved her during filming, and what makes this project unlike anything she’s done before. This interview also goes far beyond the screen. Nikki speaks candidly about her powerful work with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, the hospital that helped save her son’s life, and the historic $1.25 billion fundraising campaign she is helping lead. She also shares the meaning behind The Benny Bracelet, the custom charm bracelet she created to support CHLA’s mission. Nikki also discusses her role as a spokesperson for The Alzheimer’s Association, honoring her father’s courageous battle with Pick’s Disease, and how caregiving, loss, and love have profoundly shaped who she is today. Warm, vulnerable, insightful, and full of heart — this is a conversation you won’t forget. ✨ A Grand Ole Opry Christmas premieres November 29 on Hallmark Channel. Don’t forget to subscribe for more heartfelt conversations with the stars, storytellers, and creators you love.
23 Nov 2025
Inside The Allison Christmas Spectacular with The Allison Family
On this episode of The Christmas Connection, Dawn Mac welcomes The Allison Family, the incredible team behind the beloved Allison Christmas Spectacular — one of the most dazzling and heartfelt holiday light displays around. We talk about how their family’s tradition began, the inspiration behind the display, the hard work and creativity that go into bringing it to life each year, and what keeps them motivated to spread Christmas joy with their community. From favorite moments to behind-the-scenes stories, this conversation shines a light on the heart, dedication, and true spirit of giving that make the Allison Christmas Spectacular so special. If you love Christmas lights, family traditions, and inspiring holiday stories, this episode is sure to brighten your season!
22 Nov 2025
Richard Paul Evans – The Heart Behind The Christmas Stranger
NY Times Bestselling Author Richard Paul Evans joins Dawn Mac for an inspiring conversation about his brand-new holiday novel, The Christmas Stranger. Known around the world for The Christmas Box and his deeply moving stories of faith, redemption, and hope, Richard shares the inspiration behind his newest Christmas tale and reflects on the messages that have made his books beloved holiday traditions for so many families. In this heartfelt interview, Richard opens up about the creative spark that began his storytelling journey, how his perspective as a writer has evolved through the years, and why kindness and grace remain central themes in everything he writes. ✨ A warm, thoughtful chat that reminds us all of the true meaning of Christmas — love, connection, and the quiet miracles that change our lives. 🎧 The Christmas Stranger is available now wherever books are sold.
15 Nov 2025
Emily Alatalo Talks “Christmas North of Nashville” | The Christmas Connection
In this episode of The Christmas Connection, Dawn Mac chats with actress Emily Alatalo, known for her roles in holiday favorites and the heartwarming series Crossroad Springs. Emily shares stories from her incredible 2,000-mile hike along the Appalachian Trail, how her adventurous spirit has influenced her acting career, and what inspires her most about telling meaningful stories on screen. It’s a conversation filled with inspiration, perseverance, and a touch of Christmas cheer — perfect for anyone who loves the holidays and hearing the stories behind the stars who bring them to life. 🎧 Tune in to The Christmas Connection — connecting you to those who make Christmas special.
10 Nov 2025
Andrew DeLong: Big Band Magic and Holiday Spirit in Christmas In Full Swing
In this episode, Dawn Mac welcomes talented vocalist and songwriter Andrew DeLong, whose brand-new holiday album Christmas In Full Swing captures the timeless charm of the season with a fresh, big band flair. Recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studio 2 with London’s finest musicians, the album features stunning arrangements by Emily Lim and Richard Jacques, along with two beautiful new originals — “Snow Angel” and “Christmas Is on Its Way.” Andrew shares the inspiration behind his new album, the creative process of blending nostalgia with originality, and what it means to spread joy and connection through music during the most wonderful time of the year. 🎄 Christmas In Full Swing is available now on all major streaming platforms.
6 Nov 2025
November 6 – “Finding Joy in the Simple Things”
Dawn Mac returns with another uplifting moment on The Christmas Connection! Today’s message, “Finding Joy in the Simple Things,” is a heartfelt reminder to pause and appreciate the little moments that make the holiday season shine — from cozy sweaters and cinnamon candles to shared laughter and glowing lights. 💭 What small thing reminds you that the Christmas season has arrived? Join the conversation on Facebook or Instagram at The Christmas Connection! ✨ Tune in daily for more heartwarming reflections and joyful stories that capture the true spirit of Christmas.
5 Nov 2025
Eric Close: Finding Faith, Hope, and Heart in All Is Merry & Bright
In this episode, Dawn Mac welcomes acclaimed actor Eric Close, known for his standout roles in Nashville, Without a Trace, and a long list of beloved holiday films. Eric joins Dawn to talk about his brand-new theatrical release, All Is Merry & Bright — opening in theatres November 7th. They discuss the heart and hope behind the film, the power of storytelling that uplifts and connects, and how Eric’s faith and family values continue to shape his journey in Hollywood. Thoughtful, genuine, and full of inspiration — this conversation is one you won’t want to miss as we step into the holiday season. ✨ All Is Merry & Bright opens nationwide November 7th.
2 Nov 2025
Jen Lilley on Faith, Family, and Her Inspiring New Book Wake Up Your Faith
Dawn Mac sits down with the talented and inspiring Jen Lilley — actress, author, and advocate — to talk about her brand-new book, Wake Up Your Faith, releasing November 4th. In this uplifting conversation, Jen shares how faith has shaped her journey, guided her career choices, and helped her navigate life’s challenges with grace and purpose. It’s an honest and heartfelt discussion filled with hope, encouragement, and reminders that faith can truly transform the way we live and love. Tune in to The Christmas Connection — available on all streaming platforms — for more inspiring conversations that celebrate faith, joy, and the spirit of the season.
31 Oct 2025
The Devil’s Tramping Ground (Chatham County, NC)
Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 4 – The Devil’s Tramping Ground (Chatham County, NC) Deep in the woods of Chatham County, North Carolina, lies a mysterious barren circle where nothing grows. Animals refuse to cross it. Campers say their belongings move overnight. And for more than two hundred years, locals have whispered the same chilling tale… They call it The Devil’s Tramping Ground. Legend says the Devil himself rises from the underworld each night to pace that circle, plotting mischief for the world above. The ground is scorched bare from his footsteps, cursed so that no life will ever grow there again. Join Dawn Mac as she steps into one of North Carolina’s oldest and eeriest legends — a tale of mystery, fear, and folklore that has haunted generations in the Old North State. 🎧 Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State is a special Halloween storytelling series from The Christmas Connection Podcast, featuring haunted history, folklore, and chilling ghost stories from across the Carolinas. 📍 Location: Chatham County, North Carolina 👻 Theme: Folklore Legend, Haunted Woods, Southern Myth 🎙️ Host: Dawn Mac
30 Oct 2025
The Ghost Ship Carroll A. Deering - The Graveyard of the Atlantic
Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 5 – The Ghost Ship Carroll A. Deering: The Graveyard of the Atlantic In 1921, a five-masted schooner named The Carroll A. Deering was found run aground off the coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina — completely abandoned. The crew had vanished. Meals sat uneaten, logbooks were missing, and lifeboats were gone without a trace. What happened to the ship and her men remains one of the greatest maritime mysteries in American history. Some say it was mutiny. Others blame pirates, rum-runners… even the supernatural. But no one knows for sure. Tonight, Dawn Mac takes you into the haunting legend of The Ghost Ship Carroll A. Deering — the mystery of the Graveyard of the Atlantic, where countless ships have vanished into the deep, and where ghostly sails are still said to drift through the mist. 🎧 Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State is a special Halloween storytelling series from The Christmas Connection Podcast, featuring true ghost stories, eerie folklore, and timeless legends from across the Carolinas. 📍 Location: Cape Hatteras, North Carolina 👻 Theme: Maritime Ghost Story, Lost Crew Mystery 🎙️ Host: Dawn Mac
29 Oct 2025
Lydia’s Bridge (Jamestown, North Carolina)
Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 3: Lydia’s Bridge (Jamestown, North Carolina) Along a lonely stretch of Highway 70 near Jamestown, North Carolina, an old stone bridge hides one of the state’s most enduring ghost stories. They say if you drive past late at night — especially when the rain is falling — you might see her. A young woman in a white dress, standing by the roadside, waiting for a ride that never comes. Locals call her Lydia, the hitchhiking ghost of Jamestown. Her story begins in the 1920s, when a tragic car accident near the bridge took her life. Ever since, countless drivers have claimed to pick her up — only for her to vanish before reaching home. Join Dawn Mac for the chilling legend of Lydia’s Bridge, a timeless Carolina ghost story about love, loss, and the lingering spirits that still haunt the highways of the Old North State. 🎧 Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State is a special Halloween storytelling series from The Christmas Connection Podcast, featuring haunted history, folklore, and mysteries from across the Carolinas. 📍 Location: Jamestown, North Carolina 👻 Theme: Haunted Roads, Hitchhiking Ghost Legend 🎙️ Host: Dawn Mac 👉 Follow The Christmas Connection Podcast: Facebook – The Christmas Connection Instagram, Threads & TikTok – @ChristmasConnectionPodcast Bluesky – @ChristmasConnects X – @TCC_XmasPod
28 Oct 2025
The Gray Man of Pawleys Island
Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 3 – The Gray Man of Pawleys Island For more than two centuries, a mysterious figure known as The Gray Man has walked the shores of Pawleys Island. Always appearing before a hurricane, he is said to warn those in danger — and protect those who heed his silent message. Who is this spectral stranger? A lost sailor? A heartbroken lover? Or something far older, bound to the Carolina coast itself? Join Dawn Mac as she shares one of the most enduring ghost stories of the South — a legend of warning, love, and mystery that still haunts the waves of the Grand Strand. 🎧 Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State is a special Halloween storytelling series from The Christmas Connection Podcast, exploring haunted history, ghostly folklore, and eerie legends from across the Carolinas. 📍 Location: Pawleys Island, South Carolina 👻 Theme: Coastal Ghost Story, Hurricane Warning Legend 🎙️ Host: Dawn Mac 👉 Follow The Christmas Connection Podcast: Facebook – The Christmas Connection Instagram, Threads & TikTok – @ChristmasConnectionPodcast Bluesky – @ChristmasConnects X – @TCC_XmasPod
27 Oct 2025
The Ghost Light of Maco Station (Brunswick County)
Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State Episode 1 – The Ghost Light of Maco Station (Brunswick County) In the foggy pine forests of Brunswick County, North Carolina, a mysterious light has been seen swinging through the darkness for more than a century. Locals call it The Maco Light — the ghostly lantern of a railroad brakeman named Joe Baldwin, who lost his life in a tragic train accident in the 1800s. Some say it’s a trick of the light. Others swear it’s the spirit of Joe himself, still signaling danger long after the trains stopped running. Join host Dawn Mac as she takes you deep into the eerie legend of The Ghost Light of Maco Station — a haunting piece of North Carolina folklore that continues to fascinate and frighten to this day. 🎧 Carolina Haunts: Legends & Lore from the Old North State is a special Halloween storytelling series from The Christmas Connection Podcast, where we explore the ghost stories, folklore, and mysteries that linger across the Carolinas. 📍 Episode Theme: North Carolina Folklore, Haunted Legends, Railroad Ghost Story 👻 Location: Brunswick County, North Carolina 🎙️ Host: Dawn Mac
24 Oct 2025
Where Halloween Began: The Origins of a Magical Night.
Before the costumes, candy, and carved pumpkins — there was something deeper. 🎃 In this special episode of The Christmas Connection, host Dawn Mac takes you on a fascinating journey through the origins of Halloween — from ancient Celtic traditions and bonfires under the autumn sky to the first carved turnips and the birth of the modern jack-o’-lantern. Discover how history, folklore, and faith intertwined to create the celebration we know and love today — and how Halloween’s spirit of imagination, remembrance, and community connects beautifully to the season of Christmas. So grab your cider, settle in by the glow of a candle or pumpkin, and enjoy a little storytelling magic… where the past meets the present — and the holidays begin to whisper their way into our hearts. ✨
21 Oct 2025
The Magic of the First Christmas Ornament | The Christmas Connection
🎄 Episode 2: The Magic of the First Ornament 🎄 In this heartwarming episode of The Christmas Connection, host Dawn Mac unwraps the story and symbolism behind one of the most cherished holiday traditions — the first ornament on the tree. Discover where the tradition began, how it’s evolved through generations, and why that single ornament often holds more meaning than all the rest. From sparkling heirlooms passed down through families to handmade treasures crafted with love, each one tells a story — a story of connection, memory, and the magic that makes Christmas truly special. ✨ Whether it’s glass, wood, or glitter-covered clay, the first ornament reminds us that Christmas isn’t just about what hangs on the tree — it’s about the love that surrounds it. 🎁 Grab a cup of cocoa and join Dawn as she celebrates the beauty of tradition, nostalgia, and the little things that make the season shine. 🔔 Subscribe for more stories that capture the heart of Christmas and visit christmasconnects.com for upcoming guests, giveaways, and holiday inspiration!
18 Oct 2025
The Magic Begins: Welcome to The Christmas Connection
Welcome to the very first episode of The Christmas Connection! 🎁 Join host Dawn Mac as she unwraps the heart and spirit of this brand-new holiday podcast — connecting you to the sounds, stories, and people who make Christmas so special. In this kickoff episode, Dawn shares the inspiration behind The Christmas Connection, her love for the season, and a nostalgic look back at the traditions that make Christmas feel like home. From cozy memories of Christmases past to the excitement of what’s to come, this episode sets the tone for a season full of joy, warmth, and connection. ✨ Tune in and start your new holiday tradition with The Christmas Connection.
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