Best Magic Carpet Ride Podcasts (2025)

1
104: Accessible Adventures: Exploring North Alabama with Wonders Within Reach 27:58

Play Pause

7d ago27:58

27:58

Join host Melea Hames as she welcomes Jennifer Allen, creator of Wonders Within Reach, a leading blog and community dedicated to accessible family travel. Jennifer shares inspiring stories from her journeys with her family — including her children with disabilities — and offers valuable insight into how destinations across North Alabama can make tr…

1
103: Deck the Districts: Inside Decatur’s Historic Christmas Tour of Homes 31:46

21d ago31:46

31:46

Join host Melea Hames for a festive journey into Decatur’s beloved holiday tradition — the Historic Decatur Christmas Tour of Homes. Guests Brenda Henson, past-president of the Historic Decatur Association, and Robin McCutcheon, a community advocate and tour participant, share stories behind the event’s historic homes, the effort that goes into the…

1
102: Accessible North Alabama: A Conversation with Phoenyx Powell 24:20

1M ago24:20

24:20

Join us for a conversation with accessibility advocate and travel blogger Phoenyx Powell. We’ll explore the important work being done to make North Alabama more inclusive and welcoming for all. Phoenyx shares insights from her own experiences traveling with accessibility needs, highlights local initiatives, and discusses how communities can better …

1
101: A Magical German Christmas: The Story Behind Cullman’s Christkindlmarkt 38:52

2M ago38:52

38:52

Join us for a festive episode as we chat with Nathan Anderson, Executive Director of Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism, and the driving force behind Cullman’s Christkindlmarkt — one of the most enchanting holiday experiences in the South. Nathan shares how this authentic German-inspired winter market came to life, the traditions that make …

1
100: Exploring the Rosenbaum House with Jeff Ford 23:54

2M ago23:54

23:54

Step into the world of Frank Lloyd Wright right here in North Alabama! Host Melea Hames sits down with Jeff Ford, Site Director of the Rosenbaum House, the only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structure in the state. Together, they uncover the fascinating history of this Usonian masterpiece, the story of the Rosenbaum family, and what makes this home a…

1
99: Finding Fall Magic at Hidden Rivers Farm 35:56

3M ago35:56

35:56

Step into the joy of fall at Hidden Rivers Farm in Hartselle, Alabama, where sisters Mary-Sidney and Abigail Ritch have created a family destination filled with pumpkins, games, trails, and unforgettable experiences. Host Melea Hames sits down with the sisters to learn how their farm grew from childhood memories into one of North Alabama’s most bel…

1
98: Beverly Massa with La Famiglia Vineyard 31:16

3M ago31:16

31:16

Discover the story of La Famiglia Winery, a family-owned vineyard in the heart of North Alabama where tradition, hospitality, and Italian heritage blend beautifully. Host Melea Hames sits down with Beverly Massa to talk about her family’s journey into winemaking, the unique varietals they cultivate, and how the winery has become both a destination …

1
97: Annual Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride 16:38

4M ago16:38

16:38

Join us for a conversation about the 32nd Annual Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride — a powerful, rain-or-shine tradition that honors the journey of Native Americans along the historic Trail of Tears. We’ll talk about the history, the route, and what makes this annual ride an unforgettable experience. Follow North Alabama on Social Media!…

1
Breaking Isolation: Why Every Dad Needs Trusted Advisors 42:00

4M ago42:00

42:00

What if the very thing you’re hiding is the key to your greatest strength? In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference Podcast, Cam sits down with Brian Seim, Christian, husband, father of five, and founder of the Kingdom Family Leader movement, to talk about breaking isolation, facing your past, and surrounding yourself with the kind of men wh…

1
96: Making A Splash at Spring Valley Beach 28:39

4M ago28:39

28:39

Get ready for some summer fun as we dive into Spring Valley Beach, an iconic water park in Blountsville. Melea sits down with owner Travis Gilliland to find out more about the history of this family-owned park. Learn about the park's origins, its transformation over the years, and the variety of attractions that make it a favorite summer destinatio…

1
Making Men Strong Again: Faith, Fitness, and Fatherhood with Sean McManus 31:10

4M ago31:10

31:10

What happens when a young dad decides to stop living for someone else’s dream and start building the life God called him to lead? In this powerful episode, Sean McManus joins Cam Hall to share his journey from corporate work to coaching men in health and leadership. Sean opens up about the moment he felt called to 'make men strong again,' and how t…

1
95: An Exotic Oasis in North Alabama: The Flying Carpet Moroccan Treehouse 21:22

5M ago21:22

21:22

Be transported to a faraway land as we explore one of Alabama's most unique overnight stays: The Flying Carpet Moroccan Treehouse. Melea sits down with Cherisa, who shares how a surprising find at a salvage store sparked the inspiration for this luxurious and immersive experience. Listen to hear how this unexpected gem attracts guests from around t…

1
When the Magic Carpet Ride Ends: Preparing Your Kids for Real Life with Rob Finlay 26:34

5M ago26:34

26:34

Picture this: It's 1 AM. Your phone rings. Your heart races as you answer, expecting the worst. Instead, your college-aged daughter asks, "Dad, can I put the green gas in my Jeep?" That moment changed everything for entrepreneur and father of four Rob Finlay. What started as relief quickly became a sobering realization: Had he been so focused on bu…

1
Reading, Resilience, and Raising Leaders: What Every Dad Should Know 32:46

5M ago32:46

32:46

What if the key to better leadership, deeper connection with your kids, and more confidence as a dad was...reading? In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference Podcast, Cam sits down with Dr. Danny Brassell. Author, speaker, educator, and father, to explore the transformational power of reading in fatherhood and leadership. Dr. Brassell shares …

1
Steve Dack (Sitting In) - 17th July 2025 3:00:13

5M ago3:00:13

3:00:13

Steve Dack (Sitting In) - 17th July 2025

1
94: Unlocking Childhood Play at Early Works Children’s Museum 17:24

5M ago17:24

17:24

In this episode, Melea talks with Beth Goodwin, the CEO of Early Works Children’s Museums in Huntsville, Alabama. Learn how the museum focuses on childhood play by creating an environment that welcomes children of all ages and abilities. Beth shares how upcoming exhibits like the Kids Clinic and the Toyota auto exhibit focus on workforce developmen…

1
Money, Mindset & Mission: Breaking the Chains of Financial Fear with Matt Morizio 48:35

5M ago48:35

48:35

What if your money mindset is what’s actually holding you back? In this powerful episode, Cam Hall sits down with Matt Morizio—father of seven, former minor league baseball player, and founder of a wealth management firm—to talk about what it really means to be a provider. Matt opens up about his own transition from scarcity to stewardship, sharing…

1
Steve Dack (Sitting In) - 11th July 2025 3:00:57

6M ago3:00:57

3:00:57

Steve Dack (Sitting In) - 11th July 2025

1
Raising Resilient Kids in a Digital World: Lessons from Emotional Schools 48:14

6M ago48:14

48:14

Are your kids truly ready for the challenges of life? In this powerful conversation, Cam sits down with Leroy Slanzi — a veteran educator, principal, and author of Emotional Schools. With 25 years of experience working with kids and parents, Leroy offers a no-nonsense, practical framework for building emotional intelligence and resilience in childr…

1
Steve Dack (Sitting In) - 3rd July 2025 3:00:09

6M ago3:00:09

3:00:09

Steve Dack (Sitting In) - 3rd July 2025

1
93: A Look Inside Alabama’s Most Accessible Barbecue Restaurant, Russell Barbecue 26:07

6M ago26:07

26:07

Join us for an adventure in North Alabama as Melea sits down with Josh Russell, owner of Russell Barbecue in Sheffield. Discover how this unique spot on the North Alabama Barbecue Trail offers delicious Texas-style barbecue, featuring favorites like tender brisket and surprisingly juicy turkey. Learn about the restaurant's incredible transformation…

1
Marriage, Money & Mission: A Blueprint for Purpose-Driven Dads 40:08

6M ago40:08

40:08

What does it really mean to live a “balanced” life? In today’s powerful episode, Cam sits down with Dr. Travis Parry—father of eight, author of Achieving Balance and Marry and Grow Rich, and founder of the Make Time Institute. Together, they unpack the tension every driven dad feels: chasing success while trying to stay connected at home. Travis sh…

1
92: Finding Solitude at The Shrine of The Most Blessed Sacrament 18:49

6M ago18:49

18:49

Embark on a truly unexpected adventure as we journey to Hanceville, Alabama, to explore the awe-inspiring Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Melea is joined by Chris McCarthy, Outreach Manager for the Shrine, to unveil the history and breathtaking details of this 13th-century Italian-inspired architectural marvel. Discover its unique design, ser…

1
When the Switch Turns Off: Rediscovering Empathy in Fatherhood 31:52

6M ago31:52

31:52

What happens when the weight of leadership and loss becomes too much? In this raw and vulnerable solo episode, Cam shares the story of a young man who changed his life and the heartbreaking loss that flipped a switch inside him. From the outside, everything looked fine. But inside, he was disconnected...from empathy, from care, from himself. Cam op…

1
Reclaiming Your Time, Aligning Your Priorities, and Leading with Purpose w/ Scott Maderer 35:02

7M ago35:02

35:02

Are you tired of being busy but feeling stuck? In this powerful episode, Cam sits down with stewardship coach Scott Maderer to unpack the real reasons why so many dads feel overwhelmed, out of alignment, and unsure how to take the next step toward living with purpose. If you've ever said, “I just don’t have time,” this conversation is for you. Scot…

1
91: A Legacy of Gathering: The Story of Fire Tower Camp 25:11

7M ago25:11

25:11

Explore the rich family history behind Fire Tower Camp in this episode of Unexpected Adventures in North Alabama. Melea joins the camp’s founder, Billy Claunch, to uncover how his wife’s family traditions have inspired a unique lakeside retreat on the shore of Smith Lake. The camp reflects a multi-generational connection to the land and creates a s…

1
“A Girl’s First Love” with Amber Lyn 40:51

7M ago40:51

40:51

What if your pain could become someone else’s breakthrough? In this episode, Cam sits down with singer-songwriter and author Amber Lyn, whose journey from fatherlessness to healing through music is nothing short of transformative. Born into a life without a dad, Amber Lyn shares how a pair of vivid dreams sparked not just personal healing but a son…

1
Finding Clarity Through Crisis: The Awakening Every Dad Needs 52:01

7M ago52:01

52:01

What if the moment that breaks you… is also the moment that builds you? In this powerful and vulnerable episode of the Dads Making a Difference Podcast, Cam sits down with Kevin, a dad whose life changed forever in a single week—from the sidelines of a soccer field to the uncertainty of a pediatric ICU. What followed was a radical redefinition of f…

1
From Distraction to Direction: Reclaiming A Strong Presence in Your Home 20:34

7M ago20:34

20:34

What if 15 minutes a day could change your family’s story? In this heartfelt and actionable solo episode, Cam Hall dives into one of the most underrated superpowers a dad can possess: presence. Not the gift-wrapped kind—but the kind that shifts the atmosphere of your home, deepens connection, and fuels performance in every area of your life. Cam sh…

1
90: Beyond The Cave: Exploring Rickwood Caverns State Park 20:38

7M ago20:38

20:38

In this episode of Unexpected Adventures in North Alabama, get ready to explore the underground world of Rickwood Caverns State Park. Park Manager Bridgette Bennett joins Melea to talk about everything the park has to offer, from the cave itself to incredible outdoor scenery and wildlife in the area. They also discuss the cave's fascinating history…

1
89: Up, Up, and Away at the Alabama Jubilee 27:54

8M ago27:54

27:54

Ever seen a hot air balloon up close? Get ready for the Alabama Jubilee, a Memorial Day weekend festival that's a feast for the eyes and a ton of fun. In this episode, Melea chats with balloon pilot Ken Garner about the Jubilee's fascinating history, from its humble beginnings to becoming a worldwide attraction. Discover the thrill of ballooning, t…

1
The Lonely Dad Myth: How Community Changes Everything 27:56

8M ago27:56

27:56

You don’t have to go it alone. In this heartfelt and powerful episode, Cam Hall opens up about one of the biggest challenges dads face today—loneliness. Even surrounded by people at home or work, many fathers feel isolated, misunderstood, and emotionally alone. Cam dives into the transformative power of community—how authentic brotherhood can provi…

1
88: Alabama's Best Bites: A Food Lover's Road Trip with Martie Duncan 44:50

8M ago44:50

44:50

Craving an authentic taste of Alabama? Join host Melea as she chats with former Food Network star Martie Duncan about her latest book, "The Alabama 100: Best Recipes, Restaurants and Road Trips." Martie reveals the state's most iconic dishes and coveted recipes, from Big Bob Gibson's legendary white sauce and chicken to the Freight House's irresist…

1
Would You Follow You? The 3 Step Leadership Check You Need 24:32

8M ago24:32

24:32

Would You Follow You? Self-Reflection and Growth for Purpose-Driven Fathers “What if your kids are watching you become someone… you wouldn’t even follow?” After a brief pause, Cam returns to the mic with a raw and powerful solo episode. He opens up about his intentional break from podcasting—not out of burnout, but from conviction. This isn’t just …

1
87: Finding Community Magic at Rattlesnake Saloon 29:26

9M ago29:26

29:26

In this episode, Melea sits down with the mayor of Tuscumbia, William Foster, to uncover the amazing story of how a restaurant built under a rock became a beloved community landmark. Mayor Foster reveals the secret to the Saloon's success: genuine hospitality and a deep connection to the people it serves. His love for his community shines through i…

1
86: Five Generations of Flavor: The Legacy of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q 23:33

9M ago23:33

23:33

In this episode, Melea sits down with barbecue legend Chris Lilly, Vice President and Executive Chef of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q. Celebrating 100 years and five generations, Chris shares the incredible story behind this beloved Decatur culinary staple. He reflects on the deep connection to the community, the importance of preserving tradition, and th…

1
85: How The Land Trust is Protecting North Alabama’s Natural Spaces 20:34

10M ago20:34

20:34

In this episode, Melea talks with Abigail Harrison about the vital work being done by the North Alabama Land Trust to conserve Huntsville’s forests, wetlands, and open spaces. As the city continues to grow, land preservation is more important than ever to maintain public access, protect wildlife habitats, and provide opportunities for recreation an…

1
84: How the Von Braun Center Connects Huntsville Through Time 22:47

10M ago22:47

22:47

In this episode, Melea sits down with Sam Nielsen to explore the rich history and lasting impact of the Von Braun Center (VBC) in Huntsville, Alabama. From unforgettable concerts and Broadway shows to hockey games and graduations, the VBC has been at the heart of the community for generations. Sam shares how the center continues to evolve while pre…

1
83: How Bama Bucks Brings the Wild to Alabama 23:02

11M ago23:02

23:02

Get ready to explore the wild side of North Alabama! In this episode, Melea sits down with Terry Turk, the visionary owner of Bama Bucks in Sardis City. Known for its incredible combination of a top-notch restaurant, a unique gift shop, and an exotic animal park, Bama Bucks is an experience unlike any other in the state. Terry shares how he turned …

1
4 Lessons Every Dad Should Learn: Presence, Relationships, Growth, and Legacy 25:26

11M ago25:26

25:26

Have you ever paused to reflect on what truly makes a difference in your role as a father, husband, and leader? In this episode, Cam shares the invaluable lessons he's learned over his 44 years. He details 4 key reflections in his life, takeaways that every dad should embrace. The Power of Presence: Life is bustling, but the moments that matter are…

1
82: Why Valentina’s Pizzeria is a Slice Above the Rest 24:31

11M ago24:31

24:31

In this episode, Melea sits down with Joe Carlucci, owner of Valentina’s Pizzeria in Madison, Alabama. Valentina’s has been making waves in the culinary world, earning a spot as one of the top 50 pizzerias in the USA and the title of best pizzeria in Alabama. Joe shares his passion for pizza, his relentless pursuit of perfection, and the secret beh…

1
Transform Your Relationships: Discover the 3 T’s for Building Attraction With Paul Bauer 53:56

11M ago53:56

53:56

What if the secret to a thriving relationship lies in your ability to lead with confidence and take accountability for personal growth? We're thrilled to have Paul Bauer, a seasoned relationship coach and the force behind the "Come On, Man" podcast, join us. Paul shares his journey from navigating the pitfalls of marriage and divorce to embracing s…

1
Re-engineering Life After Divorce: Bob Wischer’s Journey to Rediscovering Purpose and Fulfillment 24:53

12M ago24:53

24:53

Ever wondered how you can reclaim your life and purpose after a difficult divorce? In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, we sit down with Bob Wischer, who shares his incredible journey of personal transformation and growth. Bob opens up about the moment when he realized his marriage wasn't aligned with the vision he had for his l…

1
81: Welcome to Alabama! A Look Inside The Ardmore Welcome Center 20:33

12M ago20:33

20:33

In this episode, Melea chats with Trisa Collier, Welcome Center Administrator for the state of Alabama, about the Ardmore Welcome Center—your first stop for Southern hospitality in North Alabama. Trisa shares how the center goes beyond simply providing directions, creating a warm and welcoming experience for visitors. They also discuss the exciting…

1
3 Peaks to Conquer for Impacting Your Family, Work, and Community in 2025 31:07

12M ago31:07

31:07

Ready to leave your mark and make a difference in 2025? In the latest episode of Dads Making A Difference podcast, Cam announces and discusses The 3 Peaks of the Balanced Dad Blueprint, a 12-month coaching program designed to help dads like you find balance and make a meaningful impact on your family, work, and community. Peak 1: FOUNDATION: Strong…

1
Reflections on Fatherhood: Impacting Lives Through Presence and Tradition 32:55

1y ago32:55

32:55

What family traditions and experiences have shaped who you are today? In this episode of the Dads Making a Difference podcast, Cam explores the powerful influence of family practices and traditions, especially during the Christmas season. Reflecting on his childhood, Cam shares vivid memories of navigating economic hardships, a life-changing moment…

1
80: Celebrating Community at The Huntsville Museum of Art 27:14

1y ago27:14

27:14

In this episode, Melea is joined by Sherry Brukner, Director of Communications at the Huntsville Museum of Art, to explore how the museum brings art to life for the local community. From inspiring kids to embrace their creativity to fostering a deep appreciation for art, Sherry shares how the museum serves as a connecting space for all. Discover ho…

1
Creating Safe Spaces: Derrek Villagrana’s Journey Through Addiction, Fatherhood, and Recovery 43:37

1y ago43:37

43:37

What does it take to turn pain into purpose and create a lasting impact on others? In this episode, Cam sits down with Derrek Villagrana, a man whose journey from addiction and personal tragedy to hope and healing is nothing short of inspiring. He opens up about his mission to support individuals dealing with PTSD and mental health challenges. He s…

1
3 Key Questions to Reflect on 2024 and Guide Your Family in the Right Direction for 2025 26:20

1y ago26:20

26:20

It's December 2024, and as we prepare for a fresh start in 2025, reflection is key. As you think about your family’s progress, what are the key areas you want to prioritize in the year ahead? In this episode, Cam discusses the importance of looking back on the year to set the stage for growth and improvement. He shares personal stories of balancing…

1
79: Exploring the Enchanting Ave Maria Grotto 25:59

1y ago25:59

25:59

In this episode, Melea chats with Roger Steele, executive director of Ave Maria Grotto, about the park’s unique history and fascinating landscape. This iconic attraction showcases the incredible artistic legacy of Brother Joseph Zoettl. Roger dives into the fascinating history behind the grotto, from its creation to its role as a beloved tourist de…