Andrew Patrick Nelson delves into the remarkable career of Barbara Stanwyck, exploring her iconic roles, emotional authenticity, and the complexity of her characters. The discussion highlights her impact on film noir, her dynamic performances alongside Fred MacMurray, and the evolution of her filmography. Check out Andrew’s top-ten list at: freedrift.substack.com/p/0a0b9abf-ff6a-4b6d-807c-6076af91b365Andrew Patrick Nelson is a historian and film scholar who chaired the Department of Film & Media Arts at the University of Utah. He co-hosts “How the West was Cast, and is a regular on the History Channel, NPR, PBS, and Fox Nation. If you’re in Scottsdale, visit him at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, where he serves as Chief Curator. You can find him at andrewpnelson.com and on Instagram at AndrewPatrickNelson.

David Fraze has spent over 35 years mentoring students, athletes, and families, helping them navigate the challenges of identity, faith, and competition. In this deep dive, we explore his journey from student minister to university professor and special assistant to the president at Lubbock Christian University. Fraze shares powerful insights on how youth sports can shape character, why failure is a gift, and how faith and mindfulness intersect on and off the field. Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, this is a must-read on balancing performance with purpose.

Author Joe Pappalardo joins us to discuss his new book, "Four Against the West," which unravels the myth of Roy Bean—the so-called "Law West of the Pecos"—and dives into the untold stories of his brothers, Sam, James, and Joshua. While Roy is often remembered as a frontier judge, Pappalardo reveals a more complex truth: Roy was more showman than lawman, and his brothers left equally significant marks on the Wild West.

In this episode, we explore how Pappalardo blends meticulous research with cinematic storytelling, capturing the grit, chaos, and contradictions of the Old West. Hear about his discoveries in archives, his adventures retracing the Beans' steps, and how his work sheds light on the era's real history—where civilization and lawlessness collided.

Tune in for a fascinating conversation that tears down old myths to reveal the true stories of the men who lived, fought, and survived on the frontier.

In this conversation, Sammy Swindell shares his journey in racing, starting from his early days influenced by his father's passion for the sport. He discusses the importance of car setup, mental focus, and the strategies that contribute to his success on the track. Swindell reflects on the dynamics of racing, the thrill of competition, and the lessons learned from both victories and defeats. He also touches on the differences between racing on dirt and pavement, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to driving and life.

In this conversation, Kevin Ryan and Rick Hinderer delve into the world of knife making, exploring Rick's journey from a horse trainer to a renowned knife maker. They discuss the importance of craftsmanship, the influence of creativity, and the design philosophy behind Rick's knives, emphasizing usability and ergonomics. The conversation also touches on the materials used in knife making, the innovative Tri-Way pivot system, and the artistic elements that make Rick's knives unique. Throughout the discussion, Rick shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the significance of testing and prototyping in the design process. In this engaging conversation, Rick Hinderer discusses the intricacies of knife design, emphasizing the importance of functionality and craftsmanship in survival situations. He shares personal anecdotes about his journey in knife making, the significance of USA-made products, and the emotional connection that comes with owning a high-quality knife. The discussion also touches on the technical aspects of knife grinds and the artistry involved in sheath making, culminating in a rich exploration of the history and innovation behind his work.

What if everything we know about reality is wrong? Quantum mechanics isn't just a weird science experiment—it could rewrite the rules of existence. From Schrödinger’s cat to the mind-bending possibilities of the multiverse, this is the story of how quantum physics challenges our understanding of time, space, and even free will. Science journalist Joe Pappalardo joins the conversation to explore how quantum breakthroughs are shaping the future. From quantum computing to the eerie implications of observer theory, he dives deep into the strangest frontier of modern science.

In this insightful interview with Joe Pappalardo, one of the top science journalists of our time, we dive into the future of smart cities, exploring the complexities of interconnected systems, the loss of human agency, and the role of technology in shaping urban life. Pappalardo shares his thoughts on the promise and pitfalls of smart cities, from the potential benefits in healthcare to the concerns about privacy, surveillance, and control. With his extensive background covering aviation, space exploration, and cutting-edge technology, Pappalardo offers a unique perspective on the technologies transforming our world—and the consequences they may bring. Watch to hear his take on the future of smart tech, the digital divide, and the crucial choices we must make as these technologies evolve.

In this episode, I sit down with Art Ayris, the visionary founder of Kingstone Studios, as he shares his incredible journey from overcoming multiple near-death experiences to creating a groundbreaking platform that brings the Bible to life through comics. Art discusses the pivotal role faith played in his life, the challenges of creating compelling Christian media, and how his team at Kingstone Studios is revolutionizing storytelling with powerful visual narratives. Whether you're a comic book fan, a believer, or just interested in creative entrepreneurship, Art's story offers inspiration and insight into the intersection of faith, life, and art.