Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Best Bet with Claudia Coffey
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| Best of Summer Encore: Chef Damaris Phillips on Fame, Food Network, & Finding Your Voice | 29 Jul 2026 | 00:51:14 | |
Looking back on one of our most-watched conversations of the summer! We had so many incredible, unseen moments left on the cutting room floor with Kentucky’s own Chef Damaris Phillips that we had to bring you this special Best of Summer Encore episode. ☀️✨ In this fan-favorite sit-down, the Food Network Star winner dishes on her wild career pivots, navigating the pressure of celebrity food television, and why staying grounded in Southern hospitality is her ultimate competitive edge. Whether you're catching it for the first time or reliving the top moments, this conversation is packed with inspiration, humor, and pure hustle. Brought to you by Town & Country Ford—your trusted partner on the road. Find your next ride at FordLouisville.net. Catch "The Best Bet" everywhere:
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| Running the Major Leagues of Bourbon with Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall | 22 Jul 2026 | 00:30:35 | |
What does it take to hold the keys to one of the most prestigious, globally recognized spirits brands in the world? In this episode of The Best Bet Pod, host Claudia Coffey sits down with Elizabeth McCall, the Master Distiller at Woodford Reserve. Elizabeth breaks down her unexpected pivot from counseling psychology to commanding the sensory lab, the determination it took to rise through the ranks from washing dishes to Master Distiller, and how she manages the daily pressure of guiding a global bourbon icon. We also dive into her favorite flavor innovations, the connection between bourbon and horse country, and what’s next for the brand. If you love bourbon culture, premium craftsmanship, and authentic Kentucky storytelling, this one is for you. 📺 WHERE TO WATCH & LISTEN:
Be sure to hit Follow so you never miss an episode in the coming weeks, and find us on social media at @TheBestBetPod for all the behind-the-scenes clips and updates. This episode of The Best Bet Pod is proudly sponsored by Town & Country Ford (fordlouisville.net). | |||
| The "Horse Soldier Effect" That Sparked a Tourism Boom (Ep. 3) | 27 May 2026 | 00:10:30 | |
What happens when a global bourbon brand plants its roots in a classic American lake town? You get a total economic game-changer known as the "Horse Soldier Effect." In Episode 3 of our docuseries, "The Catalyst," we’re sitting down with the driving forces behind the region's massive rebranding: Leslie Ikerd (Somerset Tourism) and Michelle Allen (Lake Cumberland Tourism). While the first two episodes uncovered the political grit and the operators' mindset, this episode dives deep into the actual community impact. Discover how a massive $200 million bourbon investment completely flipped the local economy, transformed downtown infrastructure, and officially put a legendary lake community on the global culinary and tourism map. If you want to see the literal blueprint for small-town revitalization, this is it. In this episode, we cover:
Subscribe now to follow the journey. 🎬 Watch the previous episodes of the series on our channel playlist! | |||
| From Special Ops to Spirits: The Horse Soldier Bourbon Story (Ep. 2) | 24 May 2026 | 00:11:50 | |
How do you transition from an elite military career as a Green Beret to founding one of America's fastest-growing premium bourbon brands? Welcome back to "The Somerset Bet." In Episode 2, we sit down with Scott Neil, a founding member and brand ambassador of Horse Soldier Bourbon. While Episode 1 focused on the community's vision, Scott takes us behind the scenes from the operators' perspective. Discover how an initial, unexpected pitch for a $200 million distillery project—which arrived "out of the blue" via email—caught the attention of a group of warriors. Scott details their incredible first visit to Pulaski County and explains how the "can-do" ethos that defined their military careers became the unshakeable foundation for their business. This isn't just about bourbon; it's about courage, community, and proof that the American heartland is ready for a major revitalization. In this episode, we cover:
Subscribe now to follow the journey. | |||
| The Culture Shift: Why $200 Million and the American Dream landed in Pulaski County. | 19 May 2026 | 00:52:42 | |
This week, The Best Bet Podcast is taking a road trip to the new "Southern Anchor" of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Somerset and Pulaski County, Kentucky. Join Claudia Coffey as she unpacks the chronological story of a community’s massive rebirth, spearheaded by a viral marketing pitch and a team of legendary special operators. GUESTS:
Sponsored by Somerset Tourism, Lake Cumberland Tourism, Pulaski County, and Town & Country Ford. Listen on the iHeartRadio, Apple, and Spotify apps, or on 970 AM. | |||
| Your Field Guide to National Bourbon Week 2026 | 12 May 2026 | 00:37:15 | |
The Best Bet is on the road! Host Claudia Coffey sits down with the architects of National Bourbon Week in Bardstown, KY. We explore the 8-day celebration (June 14-21), the evolution of the Bourbon Capital Mash Up, and the boutique tasting room explosion changing the downtown skyline. Sponsored by: Town & Country Ford (FordLouisville.net), the Bourbon Capital Guild, and Bardstown Tourism.
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| Running the Ky Derby: Mike Anderson’s $300M Bet on the Twin Spires | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:32:02 | |
What does it take to execute the most famous two minutes in sports? During the heat of Derby 152, Claudia Coffey sits down with the man behind the curtain: Churchill Downs President Mike Anderson. From his 30-year climb from the finance office to the President’s suite, Mike shares the "insider" business secrets of modernizing an American icon. We discuss the $300M renovation, the evolution of live sports, and the personal "big bets" Mike took to lead the Twin Spires into a new era. Brought to you by our friends at Town & Country Ford—your official Ford dealer and a proud partner of the Kentucky Derby. Visit them at FordLouisville.net Find "The Best Bet" everywhere you listen:
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| Ep 16: Fred Noe — 7 Generations of Jim Beam: Legacy, Business, and What’s Next | 22 Apr 2026 | 00:35:45 | |
What’s really going on in the bourbon industry? This week, I’m joined by Fred Noe, 7th Generation Master Distiller of Jim Beam. I sit down with Fred to discuss:
Join me for a deep dive into the heart of the bourbon business with one of its most iconic leaders. Thank you to my sponsors:
Subscribe & Listen:Follow the show on iHeart, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and listen live on WBNA and 970 AM. | |||
| Ep 15: Ouita Michel — More Than a Chef: Lifting Up Kentucky | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:36:57 | |
What does it take to build a culinary empire rooted in community? This week, we’re joined by the legendary Ouita Michel. Most know her from Holly Hill Inn and her multiple James Beard nominations, but today we’re diving into her latest project: the You Belong Here docuseries. We discuss:
Listen in for a masterclass in hospitality and passion! Thank you to my sponsors:
Subscribe & Listen:Find me on iHeart, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and listen live on WBNA and 970 AM. | |||
| Ep. 14 | Randy Prasse: The Mastermind Behind the World’s Biggest Bourbon Bash | 08 Apr 2026 | 00:57:40 | |
From Wisconsin cheese curds to Kentucky’s finest barrels—how do you manage the "rock stars" of the spirits world? 🎸🥃 In Episode 14, host Claudia Coffey talks with Randy Prasse, COO of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, about the logistics of a record-breaking sell-out and why the 35th Anniversary (Sept 10-13) will be the biggest one yet. Plus, Randy shares the best advice he’s ever received and which festival he’d love to "redo." 🎟️ TICKET ALERT: Sales open April 13 & 14! Don't miss out: kybourbonfestival.com WHERE TO LISTEN:Find The Best Bet on the iHeart App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or catch us on WBNA Ch 21 and 970 AM. PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:Town and Country Ford | fordlouisville.netPresented by the Kentucky Bourbon Festival #Bourbon #KentuckyBourbonFestival #Podcast #Bardstown #iHeartRadio #TownAndCountryFord | |||
| Kaveh Zamanian | The Psychologist Who Reimagined Bourbon | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:27:54 | |
Kaveh Zamanian didn’t just join the bourbon industry; he disrupted it. The founder of Rabbit Hole Distillery joins us to discuss his journey from Tehran to Louisville, the "crazy" decision to trade a couch for a copper still, and how he met his Kentucky muse on a windy night in Chicago. We’re talking about the science of taste, the art of the pivot, and why Rabbit Hole is the "best bet" he ever made. Town & Country Ford: This episode is powered by Town & Country Ford. Ready for your next adventure? Check out the latest lineup at FordLouisville.net—your drive, your way. Kentucky Bourbon Festival: We are officially in the countdown to the 35th Anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival! The ultimate pilgrimage returns to the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown, KY, September 10-13, 2026. 🚨 MARK YOUR CALENDARS: Tickets go on sale to "Bourbon Insiders" on April 13th and to the general public on April 14th. This event has sold out four years running—don’t get left behind! Head to kybourbonfestival.com to sign up for early access. #TheBestBet #KavehZamanian #RabbitHoleDistillery #BourbonCountry #EntrepreneurLife #iHeartRadio #KyBourbonFest #FordLouisville | |||
| Chef Brian Landry | The King of Louisiana Seafood Goes to Bourbon Country | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:34:51 | |
Chef Brian Landry was on track for medical school until the pull of the kitchen became too strong to ignore. From the white tablecloths of Galatoire’s to the heart of Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, Brian has spent his career defining Southern excellence. Today, he’s the force behind The Kitchen Table at the Jim Beam Distillery, blending legendary spirits with world-class cuisine. We’re talking career pivots, "insider" restaurant secrets, and what it’s like working with the biggest icons in the bourbon world. Special thanks to our sponsors:
Hit follow to catch every episode of The Best Bet | |||
| Surviving Top Chef and Changing the Bluegrass Culinary Game with Chef Paula Endara | 15 Jul 2026 | 00:36:05 | |
What happens when a chef trained in avant-garde techniques in Spain takes over the culinary heart of Lexington, Kentucky? In this episode of The Best Bet Pod, host Claudia Coffey sits down with Chef Paula Endara, the Executive Chef of The Manchester Hotel and contestant on Bravo’s Top Chef Season 22. Paula breaks down her unexpected pivot from studying music to commanding elite kitchens, the intense mental resilience required to survive reality television cooking, and how she balances boundary-pushing techniques with soulful, comforting local flavors at Granddam and Lost Palm. If you love food culture, high-stakes competition, and authentic storytelling, this one is for you. 📺 WHERE TO WATCH & LISTEN:
Be sure to hit Follow so you never miss an episode in the coming weeks, and find us on social media at @TheBestBetPod for all the behind-the-scenes clips and updates. This episode of The Best Bet Pod is proudly sponsored by Town & Country Ford (fordlouisville.net). | |||
| Rick Redman: The Business of Baseball & The Best Bet of a Media Legend | 18 Mar 2026 | 00:50:48 | |
Is Major League Baseball reaching a breaking point with player salaries? Rick Redman, VP of Corporate Communications for Hillerich & Bradsby (Louisville Slugger), joins the show to discuss the intersection of sports, business, and media. Rick shares his journey from an Emmy-winning sports producer to the gatekeeper of one of America’s most iconic brands. We talk about the "Best Bet" he ever made, the craziest things he saw on the sports beat, and why the Kentucky spirit is the heart of the game. Town & Country Ford: This episode is brought to you by our friends at Town & Country Ford. Whether you need a truck that works as hard as you do or a ride for the weekend, head over to FordLouisville.net and tell them The Best Bet sent you! Kentucky Bourbon Festival: Mark your calendars! The ultimate bourbon pilgrimage is back for its 35th Anniversary. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival returns to Bardstown September 10-13, 2026. Tickets go on sale soon—don't miss out on the world's premier bourbon event. Details at kybourbonfestival.com. | |||
| How Two Baseball Dads Built a Whiskey Empire | 11 Mar 2026 | 00:36:26 | |
What happens when two baseball dads decide to take a risk and open a whiskey bar? In this episode of The Best Bet, Claudia Coffey sits down with Tommy Craggs and Josh Howes, the founders of Watch Hill Proper — now known as the largest American whiskey bar in the world, with more than 2,000 bottles of American whiskey behind the bar. What started as a conversation while watching their kids play baseball turned into one of the most talked-about whiskey destinations in Kentucky — and a James Beard Foundation semifinalist for Best Bar in America. They share the story behind the risk, what it takes to build something truly different in bourbon country, and what might be coming next. 🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, and the iHeart Podcast Network Sponsored by Presented by | |||
| Conor O’Driscoll: From Ireland to Master Distiller at Heaven Hill | 04 Mar 2026 | 00:34:30 | |
From Ireland to the heart of Bourbon Country. In Episode 9, I sit down with Conor O’Driscoll, Master Distiller at Heaven Hill Distillery, to talk about his unexpected path into American whiskey, stepping into one of the biggest roles in the industry, and what’s next for the brand. We dive into leadership, legacy, distilling philosophy, and the surprising chapters of his résumé you probably didn’t know about. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & iHeartRadio Sponsored by Town & Country Ford Kentucky — fordlouisville.net | |||
| Chef Nokee Bucayu: The Art of Filipino-Southern Fusion | The Best Bet Podcast | 25 Feb 2026 | 00:29:32 | |
Join host Claudia Coffey as she talks with Chef Nokee Bucayu, former Executive Chef at Wiltshire Pantry and a Food Network champion. Nokee opens up about the defining decisions of her career—from overcoming homesickness through her grandmother’s recipes to pioneering the "Filipino-Southern" fusion scene in Louisville.Discover the secrets behind her Bourbon Banana Stack Cake, the punny brilliance of the Toc Bilog, and how she’s using her platform to celebrate her heritage one plate at a time.Sponsor: | |||
| The $10,000 Palate: Dan Callaway on the Future of Bourbon | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:26:15 | |
Think you know bourbon? Think again.In this episode, we sit down with the "mad scientist" of the whiskey world, Dan Callaway. Recently featured on CBS 60 Minutes, Dan has one of the most unconventional paths in the industry—from playing the French horn in professional orchestras to becoming the Master Blender at Lofted Spirits and leading innovation for the world-renowned Bardstown Bourbon Company.In this episode, we dive into:
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just looking for your next Friday night pour, this deep dive into the "alchemy" of the barrel is a must-watch.Sponsored by Town and Country Ford | |||
| Chef Anthony Lamas: From Southern California to Kentucky — The Story Behind Seviche | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:39:28 | |
Chef Anthony Lamas, four-time James Beard semifinalist and owner of Seviche, joins The Best Bet Podcast to talk Southern California roots, choosing Kentucky, and blending coastal flavors with Southern tradition. He shares his journey from TV appearances on Bar Rescue to festivals like Bourbon & Beyond, revealing how he bets on himself every step of the way. Sponsored by Town & Country Ford – learn more at fordlouisville.net | |||
| Daniel Cameron Unfiltered | Politics, Advice & Personal Risks | 04 Feb 2026 | 00:38:30 | |
Former Kentucky AG and U.S. Senate candidate Daniel Cameron sits down for an in-depth conversation on politics, leadership, and personal risks. We cover:
Insightful, honest, and full of surprises — this episode goes beyond the headlines. Brought to you by Town & Country Ford. Visit www.fordlouisville.net for details. Listen everywhere: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube & I Heart Radio/Podcasts | |||
| Bet on Your Roots: The New Frontier Brands Story | 28 Jan 2026 | 00:26:37 | |
Josh and Jared Ravenscraft didn’t chase trends — they chased authenticity. By embracing their Appalachian roots, the brothers behind New Frontier Brands built one of the fastest-growing outdoor brands in the country — and now they’re entering a new chapter with major partnerships, including one with one of bourbon’s biggest names. In this episode of The Best Bet, we talk risk, growth, identity, and why the smartest bet isn’t walking away from where you’re from — it’s standing in it. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Sponsored by Town & Country Ford Kentucky — ready for wherever life’s turns may take you. Visit fordlouisville.net | |||
| Chef Samantha Fore Bet on Herself — and the South Took Notice | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:57:29 | |
Chef Samantha Fore didn’t follow a blueprint — she rewrote one. Blending her Sri Lankan roots with Southern cooking, Samantha took a $572 gamble on herself, launched a pop-up, and watched it sell out on night one. That bet opened doors across the South — from national attention to hosting Padma Lakshmi in her own kitchen. In this episode of The Best Bet, Samantha talks about:
This is a conversation about risk, creativity, and trusting your instincts when the odds aren’t clear — but the calling is. 🎙️ Watch on YouTube • Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Sponsored by Town & Country Ford Kentucky — ready for wherever life’s turns may take you. Visit fordlouisville.net | |||
| From the Track to the Senate: Dale Romans’ Biggest Bet Yet | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:35:08 | |
Dale Romans is one of the most respected trainers in horse racing. Now he’s stepping into an entirely new arena — politics. In this episode of The Best Bet, Dale shares why he decided to run for Senate, what he believes needs to change, and how his years competing at the highest levels of racing shaped his leadership mindset. The conversation explores his upbringing in Shively, his views on immigration and education, what he learned from a meeting with Mitch McConnell, and what it means to run as an Independent Democrat in today’s political climate. This is a candid look at a longshot bet — and the strategy behind it. 🎧 Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. | |||
| Inside "The Red Rocks of Appalachia": How Laurel Cove Beat the Mega-Festivals | 08 Jul 2026 | 00:30:47 | |
How does a tiny mountain town in Eastern Kentucky sell out an entire music festival weekend before announcing a single artist on the lineup? In this episode of The Best Bet Pod, host Claudia Coffey sits down with Jon Grace, the Director of Bell County Tourism and the visionary behind the Laurel Cove Music Festival in Pineville, Kentucky. Known to music lovers as "The Red Rocks of Appalachia," Laurel Cove has completely flipped the script on modern music festivals. Jon pulls back the curtain on how he curates a family-reunion atmosphere, scouts massive independent country and roots talent before they hit the global stage, and why music fans are ditching corporate mega-festivals for deeply authentic regional experiences. If you love live music, road trips, and pure Kentucky grit, this is one conversation you don't want to miss. Be sure to hit Follow so you never miss an episode in the coming weeks, and find us on social media at @TheBestBetPod for all the behind-the-scenes clips and updates. You can also watch the full show on WBNA TV or tune in to 970 AM. This episode of The Best Bet Pod is proudly sponsored by Town & Country Ford (fordlouisville.net). | |||
| The Bet That Rewrote Bourbon History | 07 Jan 2026 | 01:00:12 | |
Marianne Eaves didn’t follow the traditional path — she challenged it. As the first female master distiller in Kentucky since Prohibition, Marianne shares what it really took to step into a role no woman had held in over a century — and the risks that came with rewriting the rules of bourbon. In this episode of The Best Bet, we talk fear, resilience, innovation, and the quiet confidence it takes to bet on yourself when the industry wasn’t built for you. If you’ve ever stood at a crossroads wondering whether to play it safe or take the leap — this conversation is for you. ⭐ Follow, subscribe, and leave a review Sponsor: | |||
| Come for the Lake/ Stay for the Music | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:29:17 | |
In this special episode of The Bluegrass Life, we journey to Pulaski County and the city of Somerset—two cultural powerhouses in southern Kentucky. We explore Lake Cumberland, a massive recreational lake with over 1,200 miles of shoreline, and take a deep dive into the iconic Master Musicians Festival, a cornerstone of Kentucky’s music scene since 1994.You'll hear from local leaders like Michelle Allen (Lake Cumberland Tourism) and Tiffany Finley (Master Musicians Festival), and see how this community blends natural beauty with artistic soul. From Grammy-winning headliners to emerging Kentucky talent, discover why this region continues to attract visitors, creatives, and new residents alike.🎶 Festival Highlights:Dates: July 11–12, 2025Headliner: Jamey JohnsonFeaturing: The Kentucky Headhunters, local legends, and breakout starsFull details and tickets: mastermusiciansfestival.org🏕 Lake Info & Travel Planning:Visit lctourism.com for lodging, outdoor adventures, and more.🎥 Filmed on location at the stylish Emerald Hound Jazz Bar in Somerset, KY. | |||
| Why So Many Women Feel Sick — and No One Can Tell Them Why | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:31:12 | |
Tired all the time? Can’t focus? Gaining weight even when you’re doing everything right? Host Claudia Coffey sits down with Terri Paige of Louisville’s Medical Transformation Center to explore the real reasons behind the rise in autoimmune disease — and what women can do right now to take back control of their health. #TheBluegrassLife #AutoimmuneDisease #WomensHealth | |||
| Top Reasons to Visit Somerset, KY This Fall 🍂 | Lake Cumberland & Festivals | 28 Sep 2025 | 00:36:09 | |
🚗 Why Somerset Belongs on Your Fall Road Trip List Thinking about a fall getaway? Put Somerset, Kentucky at the top of your list. Here’s why this small town with big charm is a must-visit: 1️⃣ Moonlight Festival (Oct. 18th) – Downtown comes alive with music, food, and that all-American small-town vibe. 🎙️ Join host Claudia Coffey with guests Michelle Allen (Lake Cumberland Tourism) and Leslie Ikerd (See Somerset Tourism) as they share why 4+ million visitors a year make Somerset their stop — and why you should too. 👉 Start planning at seesomerset.com + lctourism.com 📍 The Bluegrass Life is your guide to Kentucky’s best festivals, flavors, and hidden places. | |||
| National Bourbon Week: Behind the Barrel | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:42:01 | |
Host Claudia Coffey dives into National Bourbon Week (June 10–15, 2025) with Stacey Phelps of Bardstown Tourism and Sam Lacy of the Capital Bourbon Guild. From backyard distillery parties to bourbon tastings, it’s a week of tradition, flavor, and pure Kentucky fun. | |||
| Whiskey Business | 08 Feb 2025 | 00:27:29 | |
In this engaging conversation, Damon Thayer reflects on his two-decade career in the Kentucky General Assembly and discusses his transition to the private sector, particularly in the bourbon industry. He shares insights on the impact of recent tariffs on Kentucky bourbon, the unique position of bourbon in trade disputes, and the current uncertainties facing the industry. Thayer also looks ahead to the future of bourbon and trade, while sharing his excitement about horse racing and the upcoming Kentucky Derby. | |||
| Humps, Hooves, and Breaking Barriers | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:32:04 | |
Claudia sits down with Isabella Leslie, the trailblazing first American woman to take on the wild world of camel racing. From horse racing roots to navigating the quirks of camels and smashing stereotypes, Isabella shares her journey, cultural shocks, and the untamed personalities of her four-legged teammates. It's a deep dive into an unexpected sport, busting myths and setting sights on the future. | |||
| Crafting History: The Backyard Hobby That Transformed a Hometown with Sawstone Brewing Co. 🍻 | 01 Jul 2026 | 00:31:35 | |
What happens when three friends move their monthly backyard brew day into a 100-year-old historic landmark? You make history. 🏛️✨ This week on The Best Bet, host Claudia Coffey sits down with Derek Caskey and Nicholas Hollan, co-founders of Sawstone Brewing Company. They share the grit it took to scale up from a hobby, renovate a century-old building, and bet on Morehead, Kentucky's very first craft brewery right before a global pandemic. From preserving historic "Prohibition-style" heritage beers to building a true community hub, this is a masterclass in homegrown entrepreneurship and business resilience. Brought to you by Town & Country Ford—your trusted partner on the road. Check out their latest lineup at FordLouisville.net. Tap into the conversation everywhere:
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| Corey Lanerie: Retirement, The Next Gen of Jockeys, & Racing's Digital Future | 24 Jun 2026 | 00:30:40 | |
Legendary jockey Corey Lanerie sits down for an unfiltered, exclusive interview just days before hanging up his goggles at the end of the Churchill Downs Spring Meet. With over 5,000 career wins, Corey weighs in on the biggest story shaking up the backstretch: the future of horse racing media as FanDuel TV winds down its network operations. He also reveals the trainers he loved working with the most, the young jockeys he thinks are leading the sport into the next era, and exactly how much the physical training to be a rider has evolved over his 35-year historic career. 🔴 SUBSCRIBE to catch every episode of the podcast. Thank you to our official sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Town & Country Ford Kentucky. Looking for your next truck or SUV? Visit their team on Preston Highway in Louisville or check out their full inventory online at fordlouisville.net. 🎧 WHERE TO WATCH & LISTEN:
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| The Ultimate Southern Road Trip: Small Town Charm, Big Stage Music in Somerset, KY | 17 Jun 2026 | 00:29:13 | |
If your ideal summer weekend involves incredible roots music, local bourbon, and a gorgeous lakeside backdrop, put this hidden gem on your radar immediately. This week, Claudia Coffey sits down with Tiffany Finley, Executive Director of the Master Musicians Festival in Somerset, Kentucky. Tiffany shares how this fiercely independent, two-day festival has preserved its community soul while booking world-class acts for over three decades. We dive into the stunning 2026 lineup (including bluegrass powerhouses Trampled by Turtles and rising stars The Creekers), why the festival grounds at Somerset Community College feel like a backyard party, and Tiffany’s "best bets" for experiencing the Lake Cumberland area like a local. Plus, stick around for our signature Rapid Fire "This or That" round to find out where the festival director sneaks off to get the best food on the grounds! Brought to you by: fordlouisville.net Links Mentioned: • Master Musicians Festival Tickets & Info: mastermusiciansfestival.org • Follow MMF on Instagram: @mastermusicfest • Southern Travel Best Bets: https://lctourism.com/ Hit that follow button so you never miss an insider guide to the best of music and travel in the South! | |||
| Food, Fame, and Southern Flavor: Chef Damaris Phillips' Best Bet | 10 Jun 2026 | 00:51:14 | |
From Food Network star to the ultimate Southern food icon, Kentucky’s own Chef Damaris Phillips sits down for Episode 24 of The Best Bet. Damaris shares her journey of betting on her culinary voice, cooking under the spotlight, and keeping the heart of Southern hospitality alive in a fast-paced media world. Brought to you by Town & Country Ford—your trusted local Ford dealer. Find your next ride at FordLouisville.net. Listen to "The Best Bet" everywhere:
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| Ep. 5: The Celebration – Planning America's Largest Small Town 250th Celebration | 03 Jun 2026 | 00:07:57 | |
What does it actually take to host a celebration of a lifetime? In Episode 5, we are pulling back the curtain on the massive logistics and creative planning required to launch America's largest small-town 250th celebration right here in our region. Joined by Leslie Ikerd of Somerset Tourism and Michelle Allen of Lake Cumberland Tourism, we talk about the unique win-win opportunity of aligning this historic national milestone with the grand opening of Horse Soldier Farms. Get ready for an insider look at an unforgettable weekend packed with bourbon, veterans, and live pro bull riding that is set to put the heartland on the national map. The countdown is on! Catch the full docuseries now—all streaming and watch links are in our bio. | |||
| The New Masterclass Blueprint for Economic Growth in Rural America | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:10:43 | |
What does it actually take to revitalize a rural community and prove that small-town America is ready for global business? We are back with Somerset Mayor Alan Keck for a broader, high-level discussion on rebuilding the American heartland. In this episode, we lay out the ultimate "Rural Rise Blueprint," breaking down exactly how small-town leadership can recognize, capture, and execute on massive moments of economic development. This isn't just a local success story—it’s a masterclass in heartland revitalization. Mayor Keck shares the mindset shift, the strategic negotiations, and the community grit required to turn a rural region into a booming cultural and industrial hub. In this episode, we cover:
Subscribe now to follow the journey. 🎬 Watch the previous episodes of the docuseries: | |||