In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, we dive into a more adult topic—one sparked by a jarring and unexpected Facebook ad featuring suggestive content that somehow avoided violating community guidelines. Shelby and Ridge unpack the moment and explore how digital algorithms serve up content based on age, gender, and user behavior—even when that content doesn’t align with what you typically consume.

We also discuss Ridge’s experience with questionable content showing up on his household's devices and the awkward detective work that followed. This conversation leads us to broader questions about privacy, digital targeting, and what it means to be online today.

It’s an honest, slightly uncomfortable, and surprisingly thoughtful discussion about the way tech knows us (or thinks it does)—and what it means for families and individuals navigating today's digital landscape.

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In this light-hearted episode of The Barn Philosopher, Shelby sits down with his wife, Rita, for a warm and funny conversation about their shared (and sometimes wild) interests. From foraging for mushrooms in the woods to experimenting with unusual crops like paw paws and Israeli artichokes, they reflect on the joy of trying new things—even if they don’t always work out.

Along the way, Rita offers some honest insight into what it’s like living with Shelby and his many… quirks. It’s an easygoing chat full of laughs, a little dirt under the fingernails, and a lot of heart.

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Episode Title: Stolen Valor and Borrowed Brilliance

In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, Ridge and Shelby dive into the topic of stolen valor—not just in the military sense, but in all areas of life where people claim honors, experience, or expertise they haven't earned. From fake war stories to people pretending to be pros in fields they barely understand, we unpack what drives this need to seem accomplished and how it erodes real trust.

We also reflect on the awards we've received and why they don’t mean as much to us as the actual work and growth behind them. It's a conversation about integrity, imposters, and what really gives value to our words and achievements.

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In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, Ridge and Shelby dig into the murky world of digital ownership. Do we really own the things we buy online—eBooks, movies, games—or are we just renting access until a company decides otherwise? From rumored cases of disappearing digital libraries to sneaky changes in service agreements, we explore how the modern marketplace has quietly redefined what it means to “own” something.

Shelby gets especially fired up over streaming services. What once promised ad-free content for a premium price is now sliding commercials back in under the banner of “new tiers” and “enhanced options”—while the original product quietly downgrades.

Join us as we unpack the illusions of digital permanence, consumer rights, and the frustration of paying more for less.

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In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, we reflect on a surprising cultural shift—young people today are drinking less.

Shelby and Ridge take a walk down memory lane, back to a time when drinking was almost a rite of passage. From rowdy nights to questionable choices, it felt like part of living fast and making the most of a fleeting youth. But times are changing—and maybe for the better.

We unpack what this trend says about a new generation, and how it ties into our own youthful sense of mortality. Was all that urgency about really living—or just fearing the clock would run out too soon?

Join us for stories, reflection, and maybe a little wisdom from the other side of the bar.

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In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, we explore the value of trying something—anything—at least once.

Ridge shares his family's annual tradition of butchering steers to feed the masses, offering a glimpse into the grit, connection, and satisfaction that comes with doing hard things together. Shelby balances things out with a less intense (but no less formative) story about how changing oil became his gateway into DIY mechanical work—and, naturally, he finds time to rant about the damage commercial fishing has done to our oceans.

From blood to oil, we reflect on how hands-on experiences shape our perspective and deepen our appreciation for the world—and people—around us.

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In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, Shelby opens up about a pivotal life choice—when he metaphorically built a house out of his boat. It’s a moment that marked his commitment to forging ahead, even if the tools weren’t perfect and the boat seemed better suited for floating than framing. Ridge reflects on his own place in the journey, feeling like he's drifting just offshore, wondering if it's time to do the same.

Together, they unpack what it really means to go all-in—not by burning your bridges, but by turning your escape plan into a foundation. It's a conversation about risk, faith, stubborn determination, and how sometimes doing something that feels useless is the only way to move forward.

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In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, Shelby sits down with his wife, Rita, for a warm and personal conversation.

Rita reflects on her coastal childhood, where “island time” was the norm—but ironically, she grew up hating to be late. Now married to Shelby, who is habitually late, she shares how his flaws have helped her grow in patience (and how she still can’t stand tardiness).

They talk about Rita’s younger dreams of becoming a marine biologist or professional seashell collector, and how she ended up surrounded by cornfields instead of crashing waves. The two reminisce about the early days of their relationship—especially their go-to dates at classic Midwest chain restaurants they’d probably avoid now.

It’s an honest, lighthearted glimpse into marriage, personal growth, and the unexpected places life can take you.

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In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, Shelby shares a tough and thought-provoking workplace story—one where trying to correct someone’s mistakes quickly turned into an accusation of racism. Despite having a diverse family, Shelby chooses not to “play the race card” in response. Instead, he reflects on how people sometimes deflect accountability by reaching for the wrong defense.

Ridge and Shelby dive into a deeper conversation about responsibility, identity, and the social awkwardness of calling out poor behavior in today’s climate. And of course, no episode would be complete without a little levity—this time courtesy of a beer called Dragon’s Milk and the questionable wisdom it inspires.

Honest talk, personal stories, and a little bourbon-barrel-aged humor—tune in now on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and more.

In this episode of The Barn Philosopher, Shelby turns the tables and puts Ridge in the hot seat for a round of rapid-fire questions. From favorite salty snacks and go-to movies to obscure actors Ridge secretly identifies with, nothing is off the table. Ridge even treats us to a surprise burst of singing—because why not? It’s a lively mix of laughs, insights, and unexpected revelations.

Join us as we get to know Ridge a little better. He's a mystery wrapped in an enigma.

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