In this episode, James sits down with Josh Ballard, director of operations at the Loretto Motherhouse. Josh shares how his early volunteer work with the fire department and St. Francis picnic, along with becoming an EMT in college, fueled his passion for community service.

He talks about running for office to take advantage of grants for sidewalks, joining the city council as soon as he met the minimum age requirement, and even earning a federal explosives license so the community could put on professional-level fireworks shows at discounted rates. 

Josh also highlights the Sisters of Loretto’s efforts to reengage with the community through public events, farm-to-table meals, classical concerts, and retreats on the campus. He shares about the soon-to-be-open to the public natural burial site, which will be the only green burial option in Kentucky, as well as other outreach and political events organized by the Peace Committee.

There’s a lot covered in this conversation, and you’ll want to give it a listen from start to finish.

🎶 This episode’s music is Look at Little Sister by Stevie Ray Vaughan.

In this episode of Mildly Amusing, James sits down with Kathy Blandford-Hawthorne, former mayor of Lebanon and the first and only woman to hold the office in the city’s history. Kathy moved to Lebanon in 1959 when her father relocated here to work at the Telecom factory. Over the years, she became deeply involved in the community, eventually serving both a four year and a five year term as mayor.

She reflects on stepping into leadership at a time when the city was financially struggling and how those early challenges shaped the work that followed. During her time in office, Lebanon made major investments in infrastructure, including the sewer plant and Fagan Branch. Those improvements laid the groundwork for future growth and helped make it possible for Lebanon to attract new industry.

The conversation also covers the expansion of city services for a town our size, including the city pool, recycling programs, street lights, sidewalks, building improvements, and the purchase of the Centre Square block. Kathy describes Lebanon as a forward looking town, and this episode highlights how much of that vision was built through steady leadership and long term planning.

It’s a meaningful look at local history, civic responsibility, and the progress that shapes the community we know today.

In this episode, James sits down with Gwyn Artz to talk food and how her culinary journey led her to Lebanon, Kentucky. Gwyn shares her background in the culinary world, including attending culinary school in Poughkeepsie, working as a corporate chef, her experience as a personal chef, and the restaurant she owned here in Lebanon.

The conversation also digs into how the restaurant industry in Lebanon has changed over the years. James shares his own experience owning a restaurant in Lebanon and what that era was like from behind the scenes.

They also talk about Souper Tuesdays, where locals can show up and enjoy some truly great soups made with heart and experience.

🎶 This episode’s song is Dinner by Gary DeMichele from the Big Night soundtrack.

In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens talks with Mike Thacker, who shares how what began as a motorcycle journey across the country ultimately led him to Marion County, Kentucky. Mike reflects on the Back to the Land movement and the communities that formed here as that movement grew from the 1960s into the 1970s, including Living Love, Cornucopia, Earthward Bound, F-Span, and others.

The conversation explores a time when people across the country were seeking a simpler, more self-sufficient way of life, building communes and collectives rooted in community, shared values, and a desire to live closer to the land and less tied to the outside world.

It’s a thoughtful look back at a unique chapter of local and national history, perfect to listen to while driving, relaxing, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in.

🎶 This episode’s song is Let the Sunshine In by The 5th Dimension.

In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens talks with Austin Brady, a familiar face who has recently stepped into local leadership. Before getting involved in the community, Austin spent seven years traveling the country as a truck driver. Hear about his life on the road, the places he’s seen, and the experiences that shaped him.

Now serving on the Chamber of Commerce board, Austin shares why he’s passionate about bringing new energy to downtown Lebanon and helping it thrive again.

It’s a grounded and engaging conversation, perfect to listen to while driving, cooking dinner, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in.

🎶 This episode’s music selection is “Take Me With U” by Prince and The Revolution.

In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens sits down with Rev. Steve Jester, the new pastor at Lebanon’s United Presbyterian Church. Rev. Jester shares how he once expected to go into law, then thought he might become an academic preacher before ultimately finding his calling as a community pastor.

Hear about the oldest complete Bible ever discovered, how influential Thomas Merton has been in his spiritual life, and a story about Merton’s connection to Lebanon. Along the way, you’ll hear how Lebanon was founded by Presbyterians in the 1700s.

It’s a thoughtful discussion, perfect to listen to while driving, taking a walk, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in.

🎶 This episode’s song is “Right or Wrong” by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.

People reacted, and we listened! Charles Lancaster Sr. is back for another episode of Mildly Amusing. In this conversation, we dive deep into Lebanon’s past, sharing stories of the Cecil Hotel, Jane Todd Inn and other local clubs, White’s Castle, the fair, downtown shops, snow days, and more. This episode is packed with memories and tales from years gone by.

It’s cold outside, but you can warm up with a little nostalgia— perfect to listen to while driving, sipping a hot drink, or whenever you have a few minutes to tune in.

In My Life by The Beatles is this episode’s song, a perfect soundtrack for remembering the people, places, and moments that shaped Lebanon and our lives.

In this episode, host James Spragens sits down with Maison Young, founder of the Lebanon Branch Preservation Trust. Their mission is to preserve the history of the Lebanon Branch of the L and N Railroad and nearby rail lines, keeping our rail heritage alive for the community to learn from.

Maison, an engineer by day and lifelong train enthusiast, shares how his passion for railroads started at a young age. He walks us through the important role railways have played in the growth of communities and industries in central Kentucky, and why he hopes to restore the Lebanon Branch between New Hope and Lebanon.

Climb aboard for a conversation filled with history, hometown pride, and a vision for the future of our rails.

You won’t hear a more beautiful radio voice than this man. Everyone knows Charles Lancaster, Sr. Hear about his childhood growing up in Lebanon, his connection to Jim Beam, and his part in the development of local neighborhoods. He recounts business ventures and some of Lebanon’s biggest milestones. Join us on a journey through Lebanon’s past, all the way up to the present day. And have you ever heard of varmint suppers? You’ll want to listen to this episode!

Music: “A Cottage For Sale” sung by the great Dinah Washington.  

https://youtu.be/KMpXnDXvdIk?si=Vmcywpksr5x8A3Jw

In this episode of Mildly Amusing, host James Spragens talks with Robin Humphress and Lynn D. Farris about all the exciting things happening at Kentucky Classic Arts. Lynn takes us back to the past days of community theatre, including when he had James as a student in Speech and Drama, while Robin shares what’s coming next for the organization.

Learn about the new building that will be opening soon, upcoming events, and the creative energy that keeps our local arts scene thriving.

There’s always something happening at our local arts center, and this conversation is your backstage pass.