For our Season 1 Finale, Michael-Thomas and special guest Kaitlin Dodi-Monk discuss the book that has become their literary comfort food: Big Stone Gap by Adriana Trigiani.

From favorite characters and unforgettable quotes to dream casting choices and Appalachian representation, this episode celebrates the story, community, and author that have inspired countless rereads over the years. Join us as we share why Big Stone Gap still feels like home.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Episode Production & Camera Operation: Sierra Chapman

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

In this book-filled episode of really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we're joined by special guest Elizabeth Paxton for a lively conversation about the stories that shaped us. From childhood favorites like The Chronicles of Narnia and Harry Potter to modern fantasy, thrillers, historical fiction, audiobooks, and guilty-pleasure reads, we share our favorite books, comfort reads, unforgettable characters, and the novels we think everyone should experience at least once. Whether you're an avid reader, an audiobook enthusiast, or someone looking for your next great read, this episode is packed with recommendations, nostalgia, laughter, and plenty of literary hot takes.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Episode Production & Camera Operation: Jon Luttrell

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Episode Production & Camera Operation: Kaitlin Dodi-Monk

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Red flag, green flag, or beige flag?

This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas discuss the pettiest red flags imaginable—from people who only communicate through Snapchat to workplaces that insist "we're a family here." They also explore friendship green flags, authenticity, long-term relationships, and the small habits that make us question everything.

It's a funny, lighthearted conversation about the quirks, preferences, and behaviors we all secretly judge.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Sierra and Michael-Thomas talk all things graduation — the excitement, the anxiety, the sweat-filled regalia, and the strange realization that nobody actually knows what they’re doing afterward. From mentorship and career advice to nostalgic high school memories and chaotic commencement ceremonies, this episode is equal parts heartfelt, hilarious, and painfully relatable.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas spotlight some of their favorite local businesses and restaurants across the Appalachian Highlands, including Bristol, Asheville, Johnson City, and Marion, Virginia. From beloved community staples to newer hidden gems, they explore the stories, food, and experiences that make small businesses so meaningful. The episode also touches on rebuilding after Hurricane Helene, why local economies matter, and the joy of discovering places with real personality and heart. Expect laughs, food cravings, and plenty of recommendations to add to your road trip list.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Sierra and Michael celebrate the small businesses that make the Appalachian Highlands and Western North Carolina communities feel like home. From Saluda to Kingsport, Johnson City to Hendersonville, and beyond, they highlight favorite local spots, discuss the importance of supporting local economies, and share stories about the restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, theaters, and community spaces that leave a lasting impression. Expect cozy small-town vibes, food talk, nostalgia, and plenty of love for the Appalachian Highlands and Wester North Carolina.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Celebrate May the 4th with Sierra & Michael-Thomas as they dive deep into the galaxy far, far away. In this Star Wars–themed episode of really…, the conversation goes beyond lightsabers and space battles into the philosophy, character arcs, and cultural impact that make the franchise so iconic.

From breaking down the Force as a form of “space meditation” to exploring the rise and fall of Anakin Skywalker, the duo unpacks what makes these stories resonate across generations. They also discuss fan-favorite characters like Ahsoka Tano, the importance of The Clone Wars and The Mandalorian, and how the expanded universe adds layers of meaning to the original films.

Along the way, expect plenty of humor, hot takes, and nostalgic moments as they reflect on growing up with Star Wars and how their perspectives have changed over time.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just getting into the series, this episode offers a fun and thoughtful look at one of the most influential franchises of all time.

May the 4th be with you.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.