Virginia Is For Laughers

Laughers, get ready to dive into the fun and hip world of Brothers Craft Brewing, a popular brewery that was once a Coca-Cola bottling plant. Join us inside their taproom today as we explore their approach to creating a welcoming environment for customers at different stages of their "beer journey". Find out how they train their staff to provide a warm welcome and educate customers about different beer choices. We’ll also go behind the scenes with the tap room manager, Josh Harold, a former teacher with a theater background who shares his personal journey that led to finding his second home at Brothers Craft Brewing and much more. We learn about the brewery's variety of flagship beers, seasonal calendar, and their unique bottle club called the Horizon Society. But that's not all! Learn about their festive "Christmas in July" event where the brewery will be serving up delicious holiday-themed sour beers. Get a glimpse into their production process, how they experiment with flavors, and their popular bourbon barrel-aged Russian imperial stout called Resolute 26. As Virginia's craft beer scene continues to grow, we also explore the vibrant food and beverage community in the downtown area and exciting collaborations to do unique fusions including working with The Farmer’s Market and area non-profits for Cask For A Cause events. Plus, we get a sneak peek into upcoming events, including Oktoberfest, JMU Football Saturdays, Beer Release with The Hackens Boys and Resolute Release Day. Join us for a fun and informative episode as we raise a glass to the thriving craft beer industry in Virginia and the fascinating story behind Brothers Craft Brewing. Cheers!

Brothers Craft Brewing Co.
Website: https://www.brotherscraftbrewing.com/
*Note: They can ship through the entire state of Virginia, USA
Facebook: Brothers Craft Brewing
Instagram: @broscraftbrew
Better yet stop by in person! 800 N Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22802

Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail - Visit the VA Beerwerks Trail: www.beerwerkstrail.com

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, prepare to tickle your funny bone with Comedian Nathan Carlson! From Comedy Zone to the Funny Bone and Sandman Comedy Club, he's left no stage unturned. Known for his sharp wit, dry humor, and impressive crowd work skills, Nathan has been making audiences burst into laughter at clubs all across the country. Coming from a small rural area in Virginia, Nathan also faced unique challenges as a comedian. But he found inspiration in his local community, using their quirks and stories as material for his act. It's a testament to his ability to find humor in the most unexpected places. Tune is as we dive deep into the world of comedy with Nathan, exploring how he found solace and healing through laughter in the midst of personal struggles. Learn how he seamlessly weaves crowd interactions into his sets, thanks to his dedication and perseverance. Discover how he handles those moments when jokes don't quite hit the mark. By adjusting based on the audience, he ensures that the laughter never stops. One aspect of Nathan's comedy that truly stands out is his impressive crowd work skills. However, it wasn't always a smooth transition for him. Initially, he struggled to switch between prepared material and interacting with the audience seamlessly. Find out how he developed and mastered this talent over time. Have a friend who could use a laugh? Share this podcast because laughter is meant to be shared. Cheers! 

See Nathan perform live in the Valley Saturday August 12, 2023!
X2 Comedy Night
Brix & Columns Vineyard, 1501 Dave Berry Rd, McGaheysville, VA
$20 Single Ticket | $35 Couple Ticket
Buy Tickets: https://www.x2comedy.com/

Follow Nathan Carlson
Instagram: @questionablyfunny
Facebook: Nathan Carlson

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, get ready to dive into and learn about the vibrant world of  theatre with special guests Sarah and Ben from the Friendly City Players, formerly known as Valley Playhouse! Learn about Sarah’s diverse background in Shakespeare, NYC theatre, a children's touring company and the challenges she faced along the way. Discover Sarah’s pandemic journey to becoming a food blogger and YouTube cooking show host featuring quick 30-minute meals sure to tantalize your taste buds and spark your kitchen creativity! Meet Ben to learn what he does for his ‘day job’; his background in theater and how participating in live arts fosters lifelong friendships. Find out about his involvement in, VOICE, a local group of singers at all experience levels that put on benefit concerts for area nonprofits. Then brace yourself for their upcoming season, themed around hope and the indomitable human spirit. Witness the magic of their season opener, "Tiny, Beautiful Things," a powerful adaptation of Cheryl Strayed's memoir, directed by Sarah. Want to get involved in community theatre? Look no further than Friendly City Players. Whether you're a budding actor, aspiring lighting designer, or sound enthusiast, they've got you covered with enriching experiences, workshops and mentorship opportunities! They're on the hunt for passionate volunteers both on and off the stage, ensuring a safe and dignified experience for all. Don't miss out on the best way to get in touch with them, get involved, see an upcoming show and much more! Listen to this episode to grab your discount for PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn and leave inspired from their unwavering dedication to enriching the theatrical experience for all. Cheers to the magic of community theatre, where dreams, compelling stories and new friendships come to life! 

Friendly City Players - Come Play With Us!
Website: https://www.friendlycityplayers.com/
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Friendly City Players
Instagram: @friendlycityplayers

Sarah’s Food Blog & Chef Show - Wingredients!
Website:  https://wingredients.com/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wingredients2272

Sing with Ben or learn more about VOICE:
https://www.voiceensemble.org/about.html
VOICE is a volunteer community musical organization that strives to marry the Arts with the art of giving back in Harrisonburg, Virginia. 

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, get ready to discover the inspiring success story of The Golden Pony, a live music venue and scratch-made American cuisine restaurant, cherished in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The Arefaine family's journey from Ethiopia to the US led to the establishment's transformation from an Ethiopian restaurant into The Golden Pony, a vital part of the city's downtown renaissance. The venue's precursor, The Blue Nile, offered a diverse and inclusive space for experimental, heavy, and hip hop music, breaking stereotypes associated with certain genres. Learn about the unexpected opening of The Golden Pony, fueled by inspiration from the novel and movie, The Outsiders, and the origins of its evocative name. The venue embodies a commitment to fostering a vibrant and diverse atmosphere, evident through its support for the local arts community, including events like the Super Eight film festival and the Skate and Worshippers show. Witness the profound impact The Golden Pony has on local to touring artists and musicians, attracting a wide range of acts to its stage. From iconic Nile Nachos to Ethiopian cherubs at the entrance, immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of The Golden Pony. The venue's dedication to providing a top-notch listening experience through sound improvements and acoustics further enhances its appeal. The Golden Pony's expansion was made possible through a successful crowdfunding campaign, reflecting the strong community support it enjoys. On Saturdays, Spanish Night attracts the coolest dancers for an evening of Mexican and Caribbean music, celebrating the vibrant international community in Harrisonburg, particularly the Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Caribbean cultures. Experience the lively and inspiring journey of creativity, entrepreneurship, and community building behind The Golden Pony's profound impact on the local community and music scene in Harrisonburg, Virginia in this special episode. Cheers!

The Golden Pony 
Website: https://www.goldenponyva.com/
Facebook: The Golden Pony - VA
Instagram: @goldenponyva
Twitter: @goldenponyva
Location: 181 N Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22802

Watch the Friendly City Comedy Sketch filmed at The Golden Pony:
“Funk Yo Tea” ~ A simple drink order gets too complicated for everyone.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gIAO8v-7Vg
Plus, you can also see the host of this podcast Dawn Davis Womack featured in this sketch with her dark brown hair before she went naturally gray during the pandemic;-)

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/

Laughers, get ready to tantalize your taste buds on this episode recorded in his 1930’s childhood home on Ott Street as we delve into the mouthwatering world of Ott Street Eats Food Truck & Catering. Join special guest John McMurray, the culinary genius behind this beloved food truck, as he takes us on a journey where good neighbors and good eats collide. as he takes us on a journey where good neighbors and good eats meet. John's passion for global flavors and his culinary expertise, honed through his degree from La Cordon Bleu, have come together to create a food truck that has captured the hearts and taste buds of foodies and street food enthusiasts alike. Discover the inspiration behind Ott Street Eats and the challenges of starting a food truck business as John shares his culinary journey and insights. But it's not just about the food! Ott Street Eats also gives back to the community by supporting local organizations and participating in fundraising events. They are more than just a food truck and catering company; they are a beacon of goodwill. We'll also explore the thriving food truck trend and the opportunities it presents for aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you're interested in starting your own business or curious about the hidden costs and challenges of running a food truck, this episode has all the answers. Join us in experiencing the delectable world of Ott Street Eats Food Truck & Catering, where good neighbors and good eats converge, and embrace the flavors, the entrepreneurial spirit, and support for local businesses, all while sharing a laugh. Plus, don’t miss the details of them serving up delicious eats at this year’s Cave Comedy Fest at Melrose Caverns. Cheers!

Ott Street Eats Food Truck & Catering 
Website: https://www.ottstreeteats.com/
Facebook: Ott Street Eats
Instagram: @ottstreeteats
Food Truck Location: 304 S Main St, Harrisonburg, Virginia USA
& on July 15 & 16, 2023 they’ll be at Cave Comedy Fest at Melrose Caverns: https://www.melrosecaverns.com/comedy

His Recommended Facebook Page on the Food Truck Business:
Food Truck Training: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FoodTruckTraining

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, join us for another playful and uplifting episode as this one promises to bring you stories, laughter, and a dose of Virginia history. Prepare to be captivated by the powerful tales quilts whisper from the past as you journey through the fascinating world of the Virginia Quilt Museum, the official quilt museum of the Commonwealth of Virginia! Join us as Alicia Thomas, Executive Director, shares her personal journey, from internships to a master's degree in public history, before finding her calling at the Virginia Quilt Museum. Alicia's love for women's history shines through as she sees quilts as a powerful medium for telling their stories. Find out how through quilts, Alicia believes we can gain insights into women's lives, including their socioeconomic status and resourcefulness. Learn about some history about quilt patterns and find out about their sewing machine room featuring a collection of vintage sewing machines. Discover how these machines take you back in time giving you a glimpse into the craftsmanship and the competing businesses that produced them. Hear descriptions of their amazing collection of quilts from as early as 1806 and the works of quilt art you can see on the different floors of their museum. Listen to stories behind some of their historical quilts and learn how they curate their exhibits. With the museum being housed in a historic home, don’t miss learning about the multiple uses of the home that include being a hospital during the Civil War with tales of their ‘young soldier’ they affectionately call “Joe Joe” their friendly ghost! Plus, discover what else they have to offer with their events, educational programs, group tours, volunteer opportunities, raffle quilts and much more. Cheers!

The Quilt Museum - be sure to sign up for their email list!
Website: https://www.vaquiltmuseum.org/
Facebook: Virginia Quilt Museum
Instagram: @vaquiltmuseum

Their recommended YouTube Channel: Textile Talks
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXsBpWjk3xVCTzucHkrU3ly5NlLa7mW3f

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, get ready to be captivated by the exhilarating world of roller derby as we dive into an engaging and fun conversation with three fierce women from Rocktown Rollers, accompanied by their announcer. Join us as we uncover the secrets of roller derby culture, how the game works, the empowering camaraderie within the team, and the incredible stories of these skaters. In this action-packed episode, our guests reveal the thrilling roller derby nicknames and the right of passage associated with them, immersing us in the heart of this empowering sport. Discover how these powerful women overcome physical challenges and support each other in achieving their goals, while forging unbreakable bonds of trust and camaraderie. But it doesn't stop there! We'll take you on a journey into the vibrant atmosphere of roller derby competitions and uncover the strategies to engage the audience. Our Rocktown Rollers guests provide an exclusive glimpse into their Derby 101 Introduction event, designed to welcome newcomers and introduce them to the exhilarating world of roller derby. Prepare to be inspired as we celebrate the transformative power of roller derby and the extraordinary women who make it all possible. With their tales of personal growth, inclusivity, and the universal confidence roller derby instills, you'll be left with an undeniable urge to lace up your skates and join the roller derby revolution. Don't miss out on this riveting episode that will leave you craving more! Cheers!

Rocktown Rollers - Get tickets & watch them compete or get involved!
Website: http://www.rocktownrollers.com/
Facebook* & Instagram: Rocktown Rollers & @rocktownrollers
*On Facebook follow new logo with the double “R”s & one listed as a sports league

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, enjoy a joyful and fun conversation to learn about winemaking with Lee Hartman “The Winemaker”. Listen to his story of how he got into winemaking and his journey to becoming a successful winemaker. Discover the importance of terroir in winemaking, the challenges of harvesting and fermentation, and the hard work and dedication required for submitting wines to competitions. Find out what inspires his passion and why he encourages customers to buy more wine than they consume. Learn and hear the story of what prompted the vineyard to host the popular “Toast to the Weekend” summer concert series featuring local bands of all different genres. Discover more about their other events like “Wine Amongst Friends' ' where you can have a tasting, learn about winemaking and hear their stories from his fellow wine making friends. Learn more about how the Shenandoah Valley’s unique climate makes for an ideal wine-growing region & much more! Plus, don’t miss learning about  their unique wine flights, wine growlers and new Rootstock Wine Bar opening up in Harrisonburg, VA. Overall, this episode is perfect for anyone interested in learning about the art and science of winemaking; the world of farming or on the search for the perfect wedding venue for their special day! Cheers!

Bluestone Vineyard
Website: https://www.bluestonevineyard.com/
Facebook: Bluestone Vineyard
Instagram: @bluestonevineyard
Follow Lee on Facebook at: Lee Hartman, Winemaker

Rootstock Wine Bar in Harrisonburg, Virginia will be located in The Liberty Street Mercantile across from Magpie Diner

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, be inspired to take risks in life and comedy with comedian Winston Hodges whose clips have been viewed over a combined 4 million times! Get a behind the scenes peek at the evolution of his comedy career and learn about his upcoming gigs INSIDE a cave at Melrose Civil War Caverns for Cave Comedy Fest. By way of Richmond and now taking the DC comedy scene by storm, Winston has opened for Demetri Martin, Brian Regan, Mark Norman, and Dave Attell to name a few. Known for his high energy storytelling style and southern charm, find out how Winston has perfected the art of crowd work by not being afraid to bomb. Discover the challenges he’s faced and what led to his gaining rapid popularity on Instagram and Tik Tok prompting his social media fans to buy tickets to his shows. Don’t miss his advice to aspiring comedians who have just started their careers and much more! Plus, find out about Winston's award-winning special, Grieving Productively, available on YouTube, and his most recent label debut album, Already Aware, that can be found on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon. Cheers!

Winston Hodges
Website: http://winstonhodges.com/
Instagram: @winstonhcomedy

Cave Comedy Fest July 15 & 16, 2023: 
Axe Throwing, Cave Tours, Food, Wine, Beer, Gem Mining, Gelly Ball & Activities PLUS see Winston IN A CAVE with X2 Comedy’s Dawn Davis Womack & Chris Womack. Be sure to select the "Premier X2 Comedy Show" ticket, 4 showtimes available!
Seating is limited Inside the Cave, BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
https://www.x2comedy.com/ 
https://www.melrosecaverns.com/comedy
Note, also new this year 2 showtimes featuring X2 Comedy's local Basement Comics

*VIPs get early entry into the cave; priority seating choosing your seats before general admission; you can bring your drinks inside for the show (which is normally not done); Meet-and-Greet with comedians after the show to take photos with him IN THE CAVE!
  
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, prepare to be captivated by CJ Hise and Sam Barnett from the alternative southern rock band, Thieves of Burden, as they take you on a rollercoaster ride through their incredible musical journey and creative process. From CJ's personal story of being inspired to pursue music after the passing away of a friend to their unforgettable performances, this podcast interview reveals the heart and soul behind their music. Dive into the depths of Thieves of Burden's world as CJ and Sam unveil their secrets to crafting soul-stirring songs and who influenced them. Discover how their collaborative songwriting process thrives on bouncing ideas back and forth through voice memos, resulting in a seamless fusion of their musical talents. As they discuss their motto of stealing burdens away through music, you'll gain a glimpse into the band's profound connection with their listeners. Explore the band's dynamic both on and off stage, as they share tales of camaraderie and adventures in the world of live music. From performing at an unforgettable beer festival in Asheville, North Carolina, where they serenaded the crowd with acoustic guitars amidst a power outage, to their shared activities in and outside of music, this interview showcases the unbreakable bond that fuels their creative energy. Thieves of Burden's musical versatility shines through as they fearlessly embrace different instruments, painting their unique sound with vibrant strokes of artistic exploration. Don't miss their personal anecdotes, captivating perspectives, and the valuable life lessons they've gained along the way. Follow them on Instagram for exclusive behind-the-scenes moments and join the ever-growing community that resonates with their soulful tunes. Cheers!

Follow Thieves of Burden 
Website: https://thievesofburden.com/about
Instagram: @thievesofburden
Facebook: Thieves of Burden
  
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA 
To purchase online please visit their website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/ 
Discount promo code: LAUGH15 

To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit: https://www.x2comedy.com/ 
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy