For the first time on Rural Roots and Cowboy Boots, we’re turning the microphones over to the next generation.

In Episode 14, we introduce our kids—Caden and McKayla—and let them tell their side of the story. Who they are. What they’re doing now. And what it was really like growing up in a family built on rural roots, hard work, and a whole lot of personality.

From funny family questions to honest reflections, this episode gives listeners a front-row seat to our family dynamic—cowboy humor, diplomat calm, and all. We wrap things up on the front porch, talking about what truly makes a family special and why home is more than a place.

If you’ve ever wondered how your kids see you, this episode might feel a little too familiar.

Drop a comment and tell us: Who do you think they said caused the most chaos in the house?

In this episode of Rural Roots & Cowboy Boots, we’re diving into four conversations that reflect real marriage, real life, and the changing seasons we all go through.

Segment 1: Do You Have to Wear a Wedding Ring If You’re Married?
We talk about symbolism, expectations, trust, and why couples see this differently.

Segment 2: Is There Still Magic in Christmas When the Kids Are Grown?
A conversation about holiday traditions, the quiet of an empty nest, and how the meaning of the season shifts over time.

Segment 3: Our Trip to DPAC to See The Outsiders
A recap of our night at the Broadway production, what surprised us and Patrick might actually be cultured

Front Porch: The Gifts You Can’t Wrap
We end the episode reflecting on the intangible gifts this year brought — peace, time, laughter, health, and clarity.

Pull up a chair and enjoy Episode 13 of Rural Roots & Cowboy Boots.

In this episode, we catch up after a busy few weeks and talk through the things that have been on our minds lately — our trip to Texas, the traditions that make this season feel like home, the unexpected energy from the student section at a game, and a moment to reflect on what we’re thankful for right now.

It’s an easy, honest conversation about family, perspective, and the small things that remind us what really matters. Grab a seat and join us for Episode 12.

#RuralRootsAndCowboyBoots #Podcast #TexasTrip #FamilyTraditions #CountryLife #ThankfulHeart #RuralAmerica #Storytelling #HolidaySeason

Patrick and Amy dive into how women are shaping the future of American agriculture, share updates from their D.C. advocacy work, and break down what’s really happening behind the government shutdown headlines and SNAP delays. Then they close things out on the front porch — talking empty-nest life, new adventures, and a few laughs about Amy’s Pilates journey.

#RuralRootsAndCowboyBoots #WomenInAg #RuralLife

After a short break, Patrick and Amy saddle back up to talk life, cattle, and community. From the North Carolina State Fair to what’s really happening in the beef industry, they cover it all with honesty, humor, and heart.

Segments:
• The Reason for Disappearance
• State Fair Stories
• Cattle Industry Update
• Front Porch Talk on ST & RBI

Because sometimes you have to live the story before you can tell it—and the porch is still where truth sits down and takes its boots off.

Not every battle is worth fighting. In this episode, Patrick and Amy share why sometimes the wisest choice is to sit an argument out—and how that lesson shows up in classrooms, communities, policy, and even on the front porch.

From Amy’s trip to Boston, to Patrick’s meetings in Washington on beef inspection policy, to the challenges of rural health care, this conversation dives into what it means to choose your battles and be grateful for the tables you’re invited to.

Key takeaway: Being present where it matters is far more powerful than arguing everywhere at once.

From Yellowstone’s geysers to the porches of small-town America, we’re exploring legacy, growth, and what it means to live the good life.

In this episode:
- Reflections on Yellowstone with wisdom from Aldo Leopold & John Muir

- Rural growth — prosperity or invasion?
- Families, schools & Main Street as the heartbeat of community
- Front Porch Talk — neighbors, hope, and real solutions

“Yellowstone reminds us that wild places aren’t just a backdrop — they’re a teacher.”

Tune in now on Rural Roots and Cowboy Boots.

Zep’s recovery, back-to-school season with kids in grad school, and why education feels more about money than learning. From NC’s tourism-driven school calendar to rural schools where “equal” doesn’t mean “identical,” Patrick and Amy end on the porch asking what puzzle pieces we’re missing in raising kids today.