MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs

Madison Isabella Marsh, born on August 2, 2001, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, is an American beauty pageant titleholder and a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force.

She made history by being crowned Miss America 2024, becoming the first active-duty military officer to win the title.

Early Life and Education:

• Family Background: Madison is the daughter of Mike and Whitney Marsh and has four siblings. Her father is a physician, and her mother was a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Tragically, her mother passed away from pancreatic cancer when Madison was seventeen, which inspired her to become an advocate for pancreatic cancer awareness. In 2019, she founded the Whitney Marsh Foundation in her mother's honor to raise funds for cancer research. Wikipedia
• Education: Madison graduated from Southside High School in Fort Smith in 2019. During her youth, she developed a passion for aviation, attending space camps and obtaining her pilot's license at the age of 17. She pursued higher education at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, earning a degree in astrophysics in 2023. Upon graduation, she was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. She furthered her studies by attending the Harvard Kennedy School through the Air Force Civilian Institution program. Wikipedia

Pageantry Career:

• Miss Academy 2023: While at the Air Force Academy, Madison was crowned Miss Academy 2023, a pageant for academy attendees. Wikipedia
• Miss Colorado 2023: Her victory as Miss Academy qualified her for the Miss Colorado pageant, which she won in May 2023 on her third attempt. This achievement made her the first Miss America contestant to be an active-duty military officer. Wikipedia
• Miss America 2024: Representing Colorado, Madison competed in the Miss America 2024 pageant held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando, Florida, on January 14, 2024. She advanced through the competition, ultimately being crowned Miss America 2024, becoming the fourth woman representing Colorado to win the title and the first member of the U.S. Armed Forces to do so. Wikipedia

Advocacy and Impact:

Madison's personal experiences have fueled her dedication to cancer research and awareness. Through the Whitney Marsh Foundation, she actively raises funds and promotes early detection of pancreatic cancer. Her unique position as both a military officer and Miss America allows her to bridge the gap between the armed forces and the public, inspiring many with her commitment to service and education.

Recent Engagements:

In her role as Miss America, Madison has participated in various events, including meeting with students and ROTC cadets to share her experiences and advocate for service and education.

Air & Space Forces Magazine

Madison Marsh's journey reflects a blend of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact, both in her military career and through her advocacy work.

Marc Martel, born on November 16, 1976, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, is a renowned singer, musician, and songwriter.

He is best known for his remarkable vocal resemblance to the late Freddie Mercury of Queen, which has earned him global recognition.

Martel's talent and career span various musical projects, from his work in the Christian rock band Downhere to his role in recreating Mercury's iconic vocals for Queen-related projects.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Background:

Marc Martel grew up in a Christian family in Montreal, where his father was a pastor. He showed an early interest in music, learning piano and later developing his vocal talent. Education:

Martel attended Briercrest College and Seminary in Saskatchewan, where he met his future bandmates and began his professional musical journey.

Career Highlights:

1. Downhere (1999–2012) Martel co-founded Downhere, a Christian rock band, with college friends in 1999. The band gained popularity in the Christian music scene, releasing multiple albums and winning several awards, including: Dove Awards for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year and Rock Recorded Song of the Year. After more than a decade of success, the band went on hiatus in 2012.

2. The Queen Extravaganza (2011–2017) In 2011, Martel auditioned for The Queen Extravaganza, a tribute project organized by Queen's drummer, Roger Taylor. His audition video, where he sang "Somebody to Love," went viral, amassing millions of views and earning him the role of lead vocalist. Martel toured globally with The Queen Extravaganza, gaining acclaim for his uncanny ability to channel Freddie Mercury's voice.

3. The Ultimate Queen Celebration (2017–Present) Following his time with The Queen Extravaganza, Martel launched his own Queen tribute show, The Ultimate Queen Celebration, where he continues to perform Queen's greatest hits.

4. Contribution to Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) Martel's voice was used alongside archival recordings of Freddie Mercury to recreate Mercury's vocals in the Oscar-winning biopic Bohemian Rhapsody. This contribution solidified Martel's reputation as one of the most authentic interpreters of Mercury's voice.

5. Solo Career Martel has released solo albums showcasing his range as an artist beyond Queen tributes, including: Impersonator (2014) The Silent Night EP (2016) Thunderbolt and Lightning (2018), a Queen cover album.

Musical Style and Legacy Vocal Talent:

Martel's voice is frequently compared to Freddie Mercury's due to its range, power, and tone. He is known for effortlessly transitioning between genres, blending rock, classical, and contemporary styles.

Versatility:

While much of his fame is tied to his work with Queen's music, Martel has demonstrated a broader range through his original compositions and Christian music background.

Personal Life

Faith and Values: Martel remains deeply connected to his Christian faith, which influences his personal and professional life.

Family: He is married to Crystal Koster, and the couple resides in Nashville, Tennessee.

Awards and Recognition Dove Awards with Downhere.

Global acclaim for his role in Queen tribute projects and Bohemian Rhapsody. Recognition for his viral audition video, which remains a defining moment in his career.

Legacy Marc Martel has carved a unique niche in the music world by bridging the gap between tribute performances and original artistry. His ability to channel Freddie Mercury's legendary voice while maintaining his individuality has made him a standout figure in both rock and Christian music scenes. Martel's contributions to preserving Queen's legacy, coupled with his impressive solo work, continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

William "Will" Beshear is the son of Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and First Lady Britainy Beshear.

He has a younger sister named Lila. The Beshear family is known for their active involvement in community service and public life.

Will has been featured in various public appearances alongside his parents.

In a light-hearted video released in early January 2025, Governor Beshear and his wife read unflattering social media comments, with Will providing humorous translations for some of the remarks.

This showcased the family's close-knit relationship and willingness to engage with the public in a relatable manner.

The Beshear family resides in Kentucky, where they are actively involved in their local community and church.

Governor Beshear and First Lady Britainy serve as deacons at Beargrass Christian Church in Louisville.

While specific details about Will's personal life are kept private to respect his and his family's privacy, it is evident that he plays a supportive role in his family's public service endeavors.

Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat, has served as the Kentucky Governor since December 2019.

He was previously the state's Attorney General from 2015 to 2019.

The Beshear family, including Will, resides in Frankfort, Kentucky, and attends Beargrass Christian Church in Louisville, where Andy and Britainy serve as deacons​

Wylie B. Caudill is a renowned mural artist in Lexington, Kentucky, known for his vibrant and large-scale public art. Originally from Cynthia, Kentucky, Caudill developed his passion for art early on, often using sidewalks and various surfaces as his canvas. He graduated from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), where his artistic journey gained significant momentum through his chalk art creations on campus.

Caudill's career took a professional turn in 2019 when he pursued art full-time. His unique style, which he calls "organic repetition," features bold patterns and his signature roses, which have become iconic in his work. His murals can be seen across central Kentucky, and he has also partnered with major brands like YouTube, MTV, and Mountain Dew for various projects.

In 2024, Caudill was honored as the official artist of the 150th Kentucky Derby, a significant milestone that involved creating the event's official artwork and designs for the Woodford Reserve Commemorative Derby Bottle. His Derby artwork prominently features the trophy, the reimagined paddock, and a garland of 150 red roses to symbolize the Derby Winner's Circle, surrounded by additional roses to represent the fans worldwide.

Elizabeth is the Master Distiller for Woodford Reserve, a premium bourbon brand under the Brown-Forman Corporation.

Appointed in February 2023, she became the third person and the first woman to hold this position in the brand's 26-year history.

Educational Background:

• McCall earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in counseling psychology from the University of Louisville.

Professional Journey:

• In 2009, she began her career at Brown-Forman as a sensory expert in the quality department, focusing on sensory analysis and quality control.
• By 2015, she advanced to the role of Master Taster at Woodford Reserve, where she honed her skills in product development and innovation.
• In 2018, she was promoted to Assistant Master Distiller, working closely with then-Master Distiller Chris Morris, who mentored her for over a decade.

Current Role and Responsibilities:

• As Master Distiller, McCall oversees quality and innovation efforts, leads the development of new products, and manages special releases such as the Master's Collection and Distillery Series.
• She continues to uphold the brand's commitment to excellence, building upon the foundation established by her predecessors.

Personal Background:

• McCall is a second-generation spirits industry professional; her mother worked for Seagram in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
• She holds the certification of Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS).

Elizabeth McCall's progression within Brown-Forman and appointment as Master Distiller at Woodford Reserve highlights her bourbon-making expertise and dedication.

Her leadership marks a significant milestone in the industry, reflecting both her achievements and the evolving role of women in the field.

Randall King is an American country music singer and songwriter known for his neo-traditional country style. Born in Hereford, Texas, he was influenced by classic country artists such as George Strait and Keith Whitley. King pursued higher education at Texas Tech University and later at South Plains College, where he studied music production. He formed the Randall King Band during this time, releasing the album Old Dirt Road. Eventually, he embarked on a solo career, releasing the EP Another Bullet in 2016 and a self-titled album in 2018.

In 2020, King released the EP Leanna, named in honor of his late sister. His music is often described as "neo-traditional country revivalist," reflecting his commitment to traditional country sounds.

He made his Grand Ole Opry debut on March 15, 2022, marking a significant milestone in his career.

King's dedication to traditional country music has earned him recognition within the industry. He was named the Country Now 2022 Country Artist to Watch, highlighting his growing influence in the country music scene.

His discography includes the albums Old Dirt Road (2011), Randall King (2018), and Shot Glass (2022), as well as the EPs Another Bullet (2016) and Leanna (2020).

Through relentless touring and a commitment to his craft, King has built a dedicated fan base and continues contributing to preserving and evolving traditional country music.

Born May 1, 2003, in Chester, England, is a British reality television personality, model, and accomplished equestrian. She is the daughter of former England footballer Michael Owen and Louise Bonsall.

Equestrian Career:

• Gemma has represented Great Britain as a dressage rider, competing internationally at the U16 and U18 levels. Her participation in the 2021 European Championships highlights her dedication and skill in equestrian sports.

Entrepreneurial Ventures:

• In February 2022, she launched her swimwear brand, OG Beachwear, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and interest in fashion.

Reality Television:

• Gemma gained widespread recognition as a contestant on the 2022 series of Love Island, where she finished as a runner-up. Her appearance on the show significantly increased her public profile.

Recent Developments:

• Reports indicate that Gemma is set to return to television in the upcoming Love Island All Stars series, scheduled to air in January 2025 in South Africa.
• This return to the franchise is anticipated to elevate her status in reality TV further.

Personal Life:

• Gemma is the eldest of four siblings. Her father, Michael Owen, is a renowned former professional footballer who played for clubs such as Liverpool and Real Madrid and the England national team.

Gemma Owen has established herself as a multifaceted personality in the British entertainment industry through her ventures in equestrian sports, entrepreneurship, and reality television.

Reed Sheppard, born on June 24, 2004, in London, Kentucky, is an American professional basketball player currently serving as a guard for the Houston Rockets in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

He is the son of Jeff Sheppard, the Most Outstanding Player of the 1998 NCAA Tournament, and Stacey Reed Sheppard, both of whom played basketball at the University of Kentucky.

High School Career:

He attended North Laurel High School in London, Kentucky, where he distinguished himself as a top basketball prospect.

Collegiate Career:

Played for the University of Kentucky Wildcats during the 2023–24 season. Averaged 12.5 points, 4.5 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game.

Accolades:

National Freshman of the Year by the National Association of Basketball Coaches. SEC Freshman of the Year by the league's coaches.

All-SEC Second Team honors:

Notably, he was the only player in the country to record at least 145 assists, 80 steals, and 75 three-pointers during the season.

Declared for the 2024 NBA Draft and was selected as the third overall pick by the Houston Rockets.

He excelled in the NBA Summer League, averaging 20.0 points, 5.3 assists, 4.8 rebounds, 2.8 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, which earned him a spot on the NBA 2K25 All-Summer League First Team.

NBA

As of December 2024, Sheppard is considered a leading candidate for the NBA Rookie of the Year award, reflecting his seamless transition to professional basketball.

A SEA OF BLUE

Personal Life:

Sheppard's basketball lineage includes his father, Jeff, a two-time national champion with Kentucky, and his mother, Stacey, who also played for the Wildcats.

He has been in a long-term relationship with Brailey Dizney, whom he met during high school.

Reed Sheppard's ascent from a high school standout to a pivotal player for the Houston Rockets underscores his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.

His early success in the NBA suggests a promising and impactful career ahead.

Mallory Hudson is an American singer, beauty queen, and model who gained prominence after being crowned Miss Kentucky 2023.

She represented Kentucky in the 96th edition of the Miss America pageant, held on January 14, 2024, at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando, Florida, where she was third runner-up.

Educational Background:

Hudson is a 2020 graduate of South Warren High School. She pursued higher education at the University of Kentucky, majoring in communication, and was an active Alpha Delta Pi sorority member.

Community Service Initiative:

Her "Inclusive Stages" platform provides theatrical and artistic opportunities for individuals with special needs. Through this initiative, Hudson has implemented inclusive acting classes for individuals diagnosed with Down syndrome, authored a children's book titled Inclusive Stages, created a podcast named "Inclusive Stages: Behind the Curtain," and distributed sensory kits to theaters across Kentucky to enhance accessibility for individuals with sensory processing disorders.

Recognition:

In 2023, Hudson was honored with the Kentucky Farm Bureau Quality of Life Award for her impactful work with Inclusive Stages.

Personal Interests:

Beyond her pageant and advocacy work, Hudson enjoys singing, playing guitar, reading, working out, supporting the Kentucky Wildcats, spending time with her Goldendoodle named Bella, watching mystery films with friends, attending her younger sister McLaine's sporting events, and traveling with her parents, Todd and Caroline.

Mallory Hudson exemplifies leadership and a commitment to community service through her dedication to inclusivity in the arts and her achievements in pageantry.

Born on October 1, 1978, in Virginia, Nick is widely recognized by his moniker "Fat Perez" as an American golf personality and social media influencer due to his engaging presence on YouTube's "Bob Does Sports." Stubbe's academic journey includes studies in history at Hampden-Sydney College and the attainment of a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Virginia Commonwealth University. Professionally, he has held roles in finance and operations, notably serving as a fraud detection agent at Capital One and later as a property accountant and asset manager at Commonwealth Commercial Partners LLC. Introduced to golf by his father, Kevin Stubbe, a bond manager, Nick developed a profound passion for the sport early in life. He competed in high school and Division III collegiate golf, though he did not pursue a professional career in the sport. His golfing skills remained a significant aspect of his life, leading to his eventual prominence in the online golf community. Emergence as "Fat Perez" The appellation "Fat Perez" originated during a golf match when a fellow player remarked on his resemblance to professional golfer Pat Perez, humorously dubbing him "Fat Perez." Embracing this nickname, Stubbe utilized it as his screen name during Zoom happy hours hosted by comedian Robby Berger during the COVID-19 pandemic. His wit and golfing acumen captured Berger's attention, and he was integrated into the "Bob Does Sports" ensemble. In 2021, Nick Stubbe married Anne Cole Stubbe, a certified Pure Barre instructor who actively supports his business ventures. The couple resides in Virginia. As a pivotal "Bob Does Sports" member, Stubbe contributes to a YouTube channel with over half a million subscribers. His engaging content has garnered a substantial following, with his Instagram account, @thefatperez, amassing over 500,000 followers. In summary, Nick Stubbe, known as "Fat Perez," has adeptly transformed his lifelong passion for golf into a thriving career as a social media influencer and integral member of the "Bob Does Sports" team. He captivatingly captures audiences with his humor and golfing expertise.