American Road Trip Talk

This episode of American Road Trip Talk; host Gary Mantz puts the spotlight on guest Dan Sullivan as he shares insights from his career with Winnebago Industries. Dan and Gary talk about making memories in RVs whether planning a first long‑distance drive or your 100th—and how iconic travel brands have shaped the modern road‑trip experience. The episode also highlights how Winnebago has become synonymous with discovery, independence, and the enduring appeal of the open road. For more information about Winnebago and Dan Sullivan visit winnebagoind.com 

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In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, host Gary Mantz welcomes back Route 66 expert Amy Beadle for an immersive journey into Springfield, Illinois—one of the most compelling stops along America’s legendary Mother Road. The conversation explores how road trippers can experience Route 66 through historic alignments, neon sign parks, classic diners, larger‑than‑life roadside giants, and unique attractions like a pontoon boat tour over a submerged stretch of the original highway. Blending Lincoln history with mid‑century Americana, art exhibits, photography, museums, and seasonal events tied to the Route 66 centennial, the episode highlights Springfield as a must‑stop destination for travelers seeking nostalgia, culture, and authentic road trip stories.

Visit visitspringfieldillinois.com for more information about Springfield and Route 66!

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In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, host Gary Mantz speaks with Ian Wallis, the Sales and Marketing Manager for Louisiana's Cajun Bayou, to highlight Lafourche Parish as a must-visit springtime road trip destination. Located just an hour south of New Orleans, this region offers travelers an immersive dose of authentic Cajun culture and renowned hospitality. Road trippers can pull off the highway to enjoy lively community events like the Mud Bug Boil Off and the historic Annual Blessing of the Fleet, or seek out thrilling outdoor adventures like high-speed airboat excursions and leisurely pontoon swamp tours to see alligators up close in their natural habitat. With its rich history and unique geography divided entirely by Bayou Lafourche, the parish provides an unforgettable, authentic Louisiana experience for anyone driving through the South.

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Planning a vacation? Don’t get ripped off! Adam K. Levin is a consumer advocate with more than 40 years of experience and is a nationally recognized expert on security, privacy, phishing schemes and identity theft. He is the founder of CyberScout and author of the book “Swiped: How to Protect Yourself in a World Full of Scammers, Phishers, and Identity Thieves.” Before you venture out, listen to this episode for great advice on outwitting the con artists.

Encore presentation from March 11, 2022

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Mark Greene of Cars Yeah says, “For me an adventure drive is when you go off the freeway and onto the back roads, or no roads, out into the wilderness. Away from cities and on roads in unique locations where tourists rarely venture.” Mark is our guest and he has stories of remarkable men and women who have done it.

Encore presentation from March 8, 2024

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Gary Mantz sits down with Adam Ducharme, the tourism director for Colorado's Lake County, to explore the breathtaking Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway. Road trippers are invited to journey through Leadville and Twin Lakes, discovering a route rich with both historic artifacts and pristine natural beauty. Ducharme highlights a variety of must-see destinations along the drive, including the WWII training grounds of Camp Hale, the historic Silver Dollar Saloon, and accessible ghost towns like Independence and the Interlaken Hotel. Whether visitors are navigating the stunning elevations of Independence Pass or taking in the area's towering 14,000-foot peaks, they are also encouraged to embrace responsible destination stewardship to protect the region's returning wildlife and fragile ecosystems.

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In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, Gary Mantz takes listeners on a journey to Southern Colorado's spectacular San Luis Valley. Joined by Julie Chacon, Executive Director of the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area and the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic and Historic Byway, the conversation explores a secluded region rich with deep historical roots predating Colorado's statehood. Travelers looking for their next road trip destination will discover a wealth of outdoor adventures, including sandboarding at the Great Sand Dunes National Park, skiing at Wolf Creek, and camping under an official Dark Sky designation. Along with highlighting the area's stunning natural vistas, Julie emphasizes the importance of traveling responsibly by giving local wildlife their space and protecting the hidden locations of ancient indigenous petroglyphs.

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In this encore edition of American Road Trip Talk, we are diving deep into the Garden State’s most enduring legends. Our special guest, Karl Petry, will serve as our guide through the strange and fascinating history of the region. Among them, the terrifying “New Jersey Devil”, the state’s clown prince of Paterson, Lou Costello, and the luxurious seaside resort town of Cape May. Also, there is the forbidding Sleepy Hollow, made famous by Washington Irving. Buckle up for a journey through folklore and history!

Encore presentation originally aired January 9, 2026

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In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, listeners are taken on a nostalgic journey through the rolling hills of the Ozarks to explore the vibrant history and quirky roadside culture of Pulaski County, Missouri. Guest Beth Wiles, Executive Director of the Pulaski County Tourism Bureau, guides travelers along 33 intact miles of historic Route 66, highlighting iconic stops that range from the scenic bluffs of Devil’s Elbow to the eccentric humor of the Uranus "sideshow" complex. The discussion weaves together the deep heritage of the region—including the Trail of Tears and Civil War history—with essential road trip experiences like hunting for neon signs, sampling local barbecue and burgers, and discovering the authentic "Mother Road" spirit that draws visitors from around the globe.

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This year Route 66 is celebrating its 100th anniversary, and we've invited the executive director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, Casey Claypool, to chat about famous stops, diners and events happening in Illinois to celebrate the Centennial. Website: https://illinoisroute66.org

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