The Rambling Gypsy

A dream realized through perseverance and perfect timing—that's the story behind The Top, Fredericksburg's newest gem nestled on four beautiful acres just minutes from Main Street. Owner Curtis Montalbo shares his remarkable journey from bar backing at Billy's Ice in New Braunfels nearly 20 years ago to creating his own hill country haven.

What makes The Top special isn't just its stunning setting with oak trees and open spaces, but its genuine commitment to comfort and consistency. This isn't your typical tourist trap—it's a place where locals gather regularly and visitors feel instantly at home. The fully fenced cattle yard provides a safe space where children play cornhole while parents enjoy craft cocktails on the patio. Dogs are welcome, families are embraced, and the atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between lively and relaxing.

Curtis's creativity behind the bar shines through unique creations like the El Jefe (muddled jalapeños, pineapple juice, reposado tequila, and ginger beer) and his mysterious espresso margarita. Live music flows Thursday through Sunday, featuring talented artists like Austin Gillam, Manzy Lowry, and the JJ Garrett Band—many of whom Curtis built relationships with during his bartending days.

The Top represents something increasingly rare—a business born from passion rather than pure profit motive. As Curtis explains their measured approach to growth, you can feel his commitment to doing things the right way. He envisions The Top eventually becoming one of Texas' premier music venues while preserving the intimate, authentic experience that makes it special.

Whether you're a Fredericksburg local or planning your next hill country getaway, don't miss this hidden treasure where Texas hospitality meets craft cocktails and live music. Find us three miles west of Main Street on 290—we're open seven days a week, making us one of the few alcohol-serving establishments in town that never takes a day off!

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

From rattlesnakes to beaches, aging perspectives to the merits of novellas, our candid conversation with author George Midla dives deep into the creative process behind three published books.

We explore Midla's personal favorite stories from his collections, including the emotional "Black Roads" inspired by a loss in Afghanistan, and "The Wish" - a potential children's book about a man and a mermaid that examines our tendency to overlook what we already possess. Midla's lifelong connection to the ocean permeates everything he writes, leading to a fascinating discussion about how environments shape storytelling.

When Midla reads his short piece "Anne's Feet," it sparks a thoughtful examination of health versus beauty and societal expectations. This seamlessly flows into one of the most compelling segments where Midla shares his theory about fundamental differences between men and women - likening women to "onions with multiple layers" who approach situations from various perspectives, while men tend to see everything as "nails to be hammered." His observation that men soften emotionally with age reveals how time transforms our worldviews.

The conversation concludes with exciting news about Midla's third book, "A Texas Treasure Tale," a novella that garnered impressive download numbers. Already three chapters into his next project, Midla reflects on how reading "some garbage" books motivated him to start writing again. Whether you're fascinated by creative processes, human psychology, or just enjoy authentic conversation that feels like eavesdropping on old friends, this episode delivers unexpected wisdom with Midla's signature ocean-deep perspective.

• "Black Roads" made Midla cry while writing it and is dedicated to someone who lost their life in Afghanistan
• "The Wish" is about a mermaid and explores how we wish for things we don't have instead of appreciating what we already possess
• Midla's extensive experience with the ocean (surfing, sailing, scuba diving) naturally flows into his writing settings and themes
• "Saltwater cures everything, whether it's tears, sweat or the sea" serves as a personal mantra
• Reading of "Anne's Feet," a short story examining the difference between health and beauty through a woman's contemplation of her feet
• Discussion on how men and women perceive the world differently – women as "multi-layered onions" viewing situations through different perspectives
• How aging changes men: "When we get older, we soften up, we get more emotional"
• Announcement of Midla's third book, "A Texas Treasure Tale," a novella that garnered 2,700 downloads in one day
• Three chapters already written for a follow-up to his latest novella

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

What does it mean to be truly, unapologetically yourself? Our conversation begins with a Christmas card that raised eyebrows—featuring our guest flipping double middle fingers—and evolves into a profound exploration of authentic self-expression.

We dive deep into the creative process behind "From Love to War," a collection of short stories that blends autobiography with fiction. Unlike conventional writing approaches, these stories emerged from raw emotional terrain. "I spent a lot of time weeping over the freaking keyboard hammering out those stories," our guest reveals, offering a glimpse into the vulnerability required for meaningful creative work.

The heart of our discussion centers around relationships and how we connect with others. Love, according to our guest, serves as "the great equalizer"—a force that transcends circumstance and social standing. Whether you're in a luxury hotel or a humble dwelling, that moment of genuine connection exists outside time and space. This refreshing perspective cuts through commercial Valentine's Day narratives and speaks to something more fundamental about human connection.

Perhaps the most moving revelation comes when we discover parallel life philosophies. While our host lives by "leave a trail that everyone wants to follow," our guest writes, "I want to make a trail with words, a path no one has ever walked." This beautiful convergence highlights how we all seek to leave our unique mark on the world while creating something that resonates universally.

Join us for this honest, sometimes irreverent conversation about creativity, relationships, mortality, and the space between birth and death that one guest describes simply as "magic and mayhem." What trail are you leaving behind?

In this candid conversation, we explore authenticity in both creative expression and personal relationships, from unconventional Christmas cards to the emotional journey of writing deeply personal stories.

• Discussion of a controversial Christmas card featuring middle finger gestures that perfectly captured authentic self-expression
• Exploration of our guest's second book "From Love to War," a collection of short stories blending autobiography with fiction
• Deep dive into the emotional vulnerability required in creative writing, with our guest admitting to "weeping over the keyboard"
• Philosophical conversation about love as "the great equalizer" that transcends socioeconomic boundaries
• Discovery of parallel life philosophies: "leave a trail everyone wants to follow" and "make a trail with words"
• Thoughtful reflections on mortality, legacy, and how we want to be remembered
• Honest discussion about failure, resilience, and sharing life lessons with younger generations

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

Shawn Hart's creative journey is a testament to how passion can bloom in unexpected places. What began as a love for music—sparked by watching a classmate perform at a high school talent show—has now expanded into the literary world with his debut novel. Shawn's transition from guitarist to bassist to author reveals the beautiful interconnectedness of creative expressions.

During our conversation, Shawn shares how he picked up guitar in high school, then later found himself playing bass with local musicians after moving to New Braunfels. The musical tangent leads to a fascinating revelation: his novel emerged not from a lifelong desire to write, but from his experience recording audiobooks for others. The desire to narrate his own audiobook became the catalyst for creating a story worth telling.

Drawing from his four years working as an activity director in nursing homes, Shawn crafted a narrative centered on a college student named Olin who participates in an "adopt a grandparent" program and forms a relationship with a grumpy resident named Alf. The prologue Shawn reads during our conversation immediately hooks listeners with its suspenseful setup—the pair in a car with police lights flashing behind them, hinting at an adventure that takes them far beyond the nursing home walls.

What's particularly inspiring about Shawn's writing journey is its organic nature. With no formal training or previous aspirations as an author, he simply began writing during late-night sessions between midnight and 4 AM. He shares valuable advice about embracing what the Duplass brothers call "the vomit draft"—putting words on paper without self-criticism—and the serendipitous meeting with an editor that transformed his manuscript into the polished work now available on Amazon.

Whether you're a musician considering branching into new creative territories or someone with a story waiting to be told, Shawn's experience offers both motivation and practical insights into the self-publishing journey. Follow his musical performances and literary endeavors on Instagram @shawn__hart, and look for his novel "Real World" now available in digital and paperback formats.

Episode Notes
• Shawn began playing guitar in high school after being inspired by a classmate's performance
• Transitioned to bass guitar when playing with Zach's band, which improved his overall musicianship
• Worked as an activity director in nursing homes for four years, providing rich background for his novel
• Started writing his book after recording audiobooks for others and wanting to create his own to narrate
• Novel centers on a college student named Olin who befriends an elderly nursing home resident named Alf
• The writing process took about a year from concept to publication
• Found an editor by chance during a music tour who helped transform his manuscript
• Self-published through Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing rather than pursuing traditional publishing
• Currently working on recording the audiobook version himself
• Plans to continue writing with future projects potentially based on his experiences in the music world

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

Ready to journey into the heart of love, laughter, and life-changing decisions? In this episode, we explore the vibrant journey of a couple as they boldly prepare to move from Texas to the idyllic shores of Belize, sharing their personal stories filled with ups and downs along the way. 

With reflections on two wonderful years of marriage, they dive deep into what it truly means to be in a partnership that thrives on patience, understanding, and humor. Listeners will find plenty to relate to as they reflect on the laughter that has filled their home and the challenges they've faced together, detailing how each experience has contributed to their growth both as individuals and as a couple. 

Moreover, the couple's conversations reveal how navigating life's whirlwind can be a delightful mix of serious discussions peppered with lighthearted moments. They highlight the powerful bond created through storytelling and funny anecdotes, underscoring that even in moments of difficulty, there’s always room for joy and laughter. 

As they reflect on the adventures that await them, they inspire listeners to embrace change, let go of comfort zones, and take that leap of faith into the unknown. With rich insights into the power of relationships and the importance of personal growth, this episode offers encouragement to everyone looking to pursue authenticity and joy in their lives.

Join us for this engaging episode, and don’t forget to subscribe, share your thoughts in the comments, and leave a review!

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

Dive deep into a captivating conversation as Monroe, a retired military veteran and sound engineer, shares his unique journey from a life of structure to one filled with creativity and collaboration. The episode brilliantly juxtaposes the chaos of civilian life against the regimented world of military service. Monroe's candid anecdotes bring to light the challenges faced during this complex transition while imparting valuable lessons on resilience, the significance of community, and the importance of maintaining a sense of humor.

Throughout the episode, Monroe underscores the necessity of vulnerability and authenticity when sharing our experiences and connecting with one another. From insightful discussions about mental health to lighthearted takes on personal hygiene, he draws the audience in with relatable stories and wit. His perspective emphasizes the wisdom gleaned through adversity, paving the way for deeper connections in both personal and professional spheres.

Join us for a hearty blend of laughter, valuable insights from Monroe's life lessons, and a reminder of the importance of supporting one another in our journeys. This episode is more than a conversation; it's an invitation to reflect on your path and share your stories. Don’t forget to engage, subscribe, and share your thoughts—let's keep the conversation alive.

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

This episode captures the inspiring journey of Creed Fisher, who shares his experiences recovering from a serious motorcycle accident, including his surgeries and the newfound respect for life and the road. The hosts discuss the importance of support systems, the humor found in dark times, and the resilience necessary to rebuild life after trauma.

• Fisher's motorcycle accident and its impact on his life
• The importance of respect in the motorcycle community
• Recovering from surgery and facing fears
• Finding humor in serious situations
• The role of support from family and friends
• The challenges of reinvention after trauma
• Plans for the future and upcoming tours

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

This episode of the Ramblin' Gypsy podcast features Creed Fisher recounting his life-altering motorcycle accident and the transformative journey that followed. From severe injuries to touring success, Fisher’s story emphasizes resilience, forgiveness, and the unwavering support of his fans. 

• Fisher discusses the start of his 2025 tour, “Between Heaven and Hell” 
• The accident leads to a near-death experience and critical injuries 
• A heartfelt conversation about the emotional fallout of trauma 
• Reflections on the incredible support from fans and community 
• Fisher explores the power of forgiveness for his accident's cause 
• Riding again forces Fisher to confront fear and change 
• Insights on the healing power of music and emotional recovery 
• A deeper understanding of resilience in the face of adversity

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

When was the last time you felt genuinely connected to the stories you read or the people you meet? Join us on a heartfelt journey down memory lane as we reminisce about Walter, our delightfully absent-minded mathematician friend from London, whose quirky wisdom still shapes our lives in unexpected ways. Our conversation meanders through the emotional landscapes crafted by literature and writing—exploring how these creative endeavors stir up a cocktail of joy, nostalgia, and even discomfort. 

We then find solace in the simple act of journaling, a cathartic exercise akin to emotional spring cleaning. Picture this: you, on a porch with your favorite drink, capturing raw, unfiltered thoughts on paper. This is not just about writing—it's about leaving a piece of your soul in the world, hoping to stumble upon a dog-eared copy of your work in some far-flung bookstore as a testament to your passion. Amidst dreamlike narratives of floating among clouds and debating color names, we weave humor and cultural insights that will leave you chuckling and pondering the quirks of human nature.

As the conversation unfolds, we touch on deeper themes of self-love and personal growth, acknowledging how past regrets can linger if not resolved, and reflecting on the transformative power of time and new relationships. Through personal anecdotes, we explore how family dynamics shape our ways of expressing affection, and how love, in all its unpredictable beauty, continues to evolve in our lives. This episode is a tapestry of emotions and insights, wrapped in laughter and thoughtful reflection, inviting you to join us in embracing the highs and lows of human connection.

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/

We explore time travel, the allure of history, and how past experiences shape our understanding of life today. Reflecting on themes of mortality, legacy, and striving for excellence, we dive into personal anecdotes and societal realities. 
• Discussing the concept of time travel 
• Infatuation with historical eras, particularly the Mayflower 
• Challenges faced by early settlers and modern parallels 
• Reflecting on mortality and the nature of death 
• The significance of family influence and legacies 
• Humor intertwined with heavier discussions 
• Pursuing excellence in life and the idea of "good enough"

The Rambling Gypsy podcast is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of real Texans doing real sh*t. We're pulling back the curtains on our daily lives - and you're invited to laugh and learn along with us.

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/@TheRamblingGypsy
https://www.facebook.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.instagram.com/GypsyMammaTiff/
https://www.theramblinggypsypodcast.com/