Kentucky Hidden Wonders Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:14:40 -0500 http://kentuckyhiddenwonders.com en-us © 2026 ShelbyKY Tourism yes Kentucky, USA a420ead8-7c92-505c-9c00-8a0201e4efc3 Kentucky Hidden Wonders episodic false Uncover the best-kept secrets of the Bluegrass State with Kentucky Hidden Wonders, the podcast that takes you beyond the usual tourist attractions and into the heart of Kentucky’s hidden gems. From historic small towns and scenic backroads to underrated attractions and local legends, we shine a light on the unique places and experiences that make Kentucky truly unforgettable.

Each episode explores off-the-beaten-path destinations, secret hiking trails, charming local businesses, fascinating history, and must-visit spots in Shelby County and beyond. Whether you're a Kentucky native, a curious traveler, or someone looking for your next road trip idea, Kentucky Hidden Wonders will inspire you to explore the rich culture, outdoor adventures, and undiscovered beauty of the Bluegrass State.

Join us as we share insider tips, intriguing stories, and travel inspiration to help you experience Kentucky like never before. Subscribe now and start planning your next adventure!

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) travel, kentucky, history, culture, southern, Kentucky Hidden Wonders https://storage.buzzsprout.com/xsxwhfyxadwsmha0tws3jpr8qyvl?.jpg Kentucky Hidden Wonders http://kentuckyhiddenwonders.com Janette Marson Mason Warren Inside the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® with Mandy Ryan Inside the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® with Mandy Ryan We sit down with Mandy Ryan, Director of Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Experiences, to unpack how a six-stop trail from 1999 has grown into a powerhouse composed of 58 destinations that’s reshaping Kentucky tourism, extending stays, and driving local communities' economies. From the Amber Triangle of Louisville, Lexington, and Bardstown to small-town gems like Shelby County, the trail’s variety now spans ultra-modern sustainability showcases and family-run farm-to-glass distilleries.

We dig into what modern visitors actually want: hands-on cocktail classes, chef-led dinners, meet-the-maker sessions, and tasting rooms where stories are as rich as the pours. Mandy shares why the audience is widening—more women, more mixed friend groups—and how simple, bartender-led guidance helps first-timers ease into tasting with confidence. Along the way, we talk real impact: a $9.2B industry driving jobs, payroll, and a ripple effect for hotels, restaurants, and downtown businesses. Shelby County’s numbers illustrate how distilling fuels local growth, with even more distilleries on the horizon.

Planning just got smarter, too. After a major rebrand, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is rolling out a new itinerary builder where you can favorite distilleries, drag-and-drop plans, plus a pocket-friendly Z-fold map that puts every region in your hand. We also tackle headwinds—tariffs, wellness shifts, GLP-1 medications, cannabis competition—and why authentic hospitality and premium experiences keep demand strong, even when foot traffic softens. If you’re ready to design a meaningful bourbon journey—one that pairs rickhouses with great food, art, and Kentucky’s signature hospitality—this conversation is your roadmap.

Enjoy the episode? Follow the show, share it with a friend who loves bourbon travel, and leave a quick review to help others discover us.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> We sit down with Mandy Ryan, Director of Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Experiences, to unpack how a six-stop trail from 1999 has grown into a powerhouse composed of 58 destinations that’s reshaping Kentucky tourism, extending stays, and driving local communities' economies. From the Amber Triangle of Louisville, Lexington, and Bardstown to small-town gems like Shelby County, the trail’s variety now spans ultra-modern sustainability showcases and family-run farm-to-glass distilleries.

We dig into what modern visitors actually want: hands-on cocktail classes, chef-led dinners, meet-the-maker sessions, and tasting rooms where stories are as rich as the pours. Mandy shares why the audience is widening—more women, more mixed friend groups—and how simple, bartender-led guidance helps first-timers ease into tasting with confidence. Along the way, we talk real impact: a $9.2B industry driving jobs, payroll, and a ripple effect for hotels, restaurants, and downtown businesses. Shelby County’s numbers illustrate how distilling fuels local growth, with even more distilleries on the horizon.

Planning just got smarter, too. After a major rebrand, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is rolling out a new itinerary builder where you can favorite distilleries, drag-and-drop plans, plus a pocket-friendly Z-fold map that puts every region in your hand. We also tackle headwinds—tariffs, wellness shifts, GLP-1 medications, cannabis competition—and why authentic hospitality and premium experiences keep demand strong, even when foot traffic softens. If you’re ready to design a meaningful bourbon journey—one that pairs rickhouses with great food, art, and Kentucky’s signature hospitality—this conversation is your roadmap.

Enjoy the episode? Follow the show, share it with a friend who loves bourbon travel, and leave a quick review to help others discover us.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-18372445 Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1231 full false Inside Little Mount Lavender: From Field To Storefront Inside Little Mount Lavender: From Field To Storefront Most people think lavender is just a pretty scent. We open the door to a much bigger story: a Kentucky team who planted 5,000 starts, signed a lease before they had products, and built a year-round destination inside a historic stone building where food, wellness, and craft come together.

We talk through the origins of Little Mount Lavender, the lessons learned from California farms, and how a bold idea became a brand with a clear point of view. You’ll hear how French culinary training shapes a cafe menu where lavender elevates citrus, balances sauces, and never overpowers. We dig into sourcing—multiple local suppliers, organic whenever possible, no additives, everything from scratch—and why a spotless kitchen and careful technique make such a difference. From teas and confections to oils, bath salts, and pet care, the product lineup shows how versatile true lavender can be when you honor the plant and respect how it behaves on different bodies.

Community is a pillar. The Simpsonville space hosts classes for candle pouring, bath-salt blending, and painting, alongside sold-out murder mystery nights that bring people together in the off-season. Local artisans fill the shelves with jewelry, pottery, minerals, and even fossils, turning the store into a discovery hub. We explore the farm setup—thousands of plants on a well-drained hillside, with a smaller in-town field for U-picks—and the plan for a larger, fully branded location that leans apothecary, where guests can customize blends and create on-site. If you’ve ever wondered whether lavender belongs in your kitchen, your evening routine, or your laundry room, this conversation will change how you think about flavor, calm, and clean living.

Ready to visit? Find Little Mount Lavender at 6905 Shelbyville Road, Simpsonville KY 40067. Preview products, classes, and events at littlemountlavender.com. If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others discover it.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Most people think lavender is just a pretty scent. We open the door to a much bigger story: a Kentucky team who planted 5,000 starts, signed a lease before they had products, and built a year-round destination inside a historic stone building where food, wellness, and craft come together.

We talk through the origins of Little Mount Lavender, the lessons learned from California farms, and how a bold idea became a brand with a clear point of view. You’ll hear how French culinary training shapes a cafe menu where lavender elevates citrus, balances sauces, and never overpowers. We dig into sourcing—multiple local suppliers, organic whenever possible, no additives, everything from scratch—and why a spotless kitchen and careful technique make such a difference. From teas and confections to oils, bath salts, and pet care, the product lineup shows how versatile true lavender can be when you honor the plant and respect how it behaves on different bodies.

Community is a pillar. The Simpsonville space hosts classes for candle pouring, bath-salt blending, and painting, alongside sold-out murder mystery nights that bring people together in the off-season. Local artisans fill the shelves with jewelry, pottery, minerals, and even fossils, turning the store into a discovery hub. We explore the farm setup—thousands of plants on a well-drained hillside, with a smaller in-town field for U-picks—and the plan for a larger, fully branded location that leans apothecary, where guests can customize blends and create on-site. If you’ve ever wondered whether lavender belongs in your kitchen, your evening routine, or your laundry room, this conversation will change how you think about flavor, calm, and clean living.

Ready to visit? Find Little Mount Lavender at 6905 Shelbyville Road, Simpsonville KY 40067. Preview products, classes, and events at littlemountlavender.com. If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others discover it.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-18319580 Thu, 11 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500 1372 full false From Family Grocer To Legendary Grill At B&N Food Market From Family Grocer To Legendary Grill At B&N Food Market A granddad with a butcher’s hand, a grocery from 1970, and a burger that made a town famous—this is the flavor map behind B&N Food Market in Bagdad, Kentucky. We sit down with Buckshot and Ashley Warren to trace how a family store turned into a destination where the Newt Burger, 20‑hour brisket, and blue‑ribbon desserts pull travelers off I‑64 and locals back for seconds. The story runs on work ethic and love: fresh‑ground beef like Newt did it and sides that taste like home.

Buckshot learned the craft shoulder to shoulder with his grandfather, then refined it with a Texas road trip. Tips from pitmasters at spots like 2M Smokehouse sharpened technique without sanding off roots, leading to brisket that stands on its own and pinto beans brightened at the finish with diced tomatoes and cilantro. Ashley adds the connective tissue—community, storytelling, and a steady social presence whose “Not Bad For Bagdad” rallying cry now belongs to the guests who line up from across the globe. Along the way, the coon hunter’s cake and a new applesauce spice cake keep the dessert case stacked with recipes that read like family history.

There’s more than food here. During the pandemic, they served outside, remodeled the 1912 building back to its bones, and doubled down on hospitality without losing pace. Portions stay generous, prices stay fair, and the smoker never sleeps. Whether you come for ribs, pulled pork, bone‑in pork chops, or a slab of fish seasoned only with salt, the promise is the same: honest, scratch‑made comfort that respects the past and cooks for today. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves real barbecue, and leave a review to help more folks find their way to Bagdad, KY.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> A granddad with a butcher’s hand, a grocery from 1970, and a burger that made a town famous—this is the flavor map behind B&N Food Market in Bagdad, Kentucky. We sit down with Buckshot and Ashley Warren to trace how a family store turned into a destination where the Newt Burger, 20‑hour brisket, and blue‑ribbon desserts pull travelers off I‑64 and locals back for seconds. The story runs on work ethic and love: fresh‑ground beef like Newt did it and sides that taste like home.

Buckshot learned the craft shoulder to shoulder with his grandfather, then refined it with a Texas road trip. Tips from pitmasters at spots like 2M Smokehouse sharpened technique without sanding off roots, leading to brisket that stands on its own and pinto beans brightened at the finish with diced tomatoes and cilantro. Ashley adds the connective tissue—community, storytelling, and a steady social presence whose “Not Bad For Bagdad” rallying cry now belongs to the guests who line up from across the globe. Along the way, the coon hunter’s cake and a new applesauce spice cake keep the dessert case stacked with recipes that read like family history.

There’s more than food here. During the pandemic, they served outside, remodeled the 1912 building back to its bones, and doubled down on hospitality without losing pace. Portions stay generous, prices stay fair, and the smoker never sleeps. Whether you come for ribs, pulled pork, bone‑in pork chops, or a slab of fish seasoned only with salt, the promise is the same: honest, scratch‑made comfort that respects the past and cooks for today. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves real barbecue, and leave a review to help more folks find their way to Bagdad, KY.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-18177613 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2629 full false How A Shelby County Ministry is Reshaping Veterans' Lives How A Shelby County Ministry is Reshaping Veterans' Lives Some gaps are obvious once you’ve lived through them. Brady Wright, a combat Veteran turned ministry leader, describes the moment he realized why so many vets were cycling from hospital detox back to the street; there was no immediate bridge into stable, supportive housing. Together with event coordinator and fellow veteran Marla Kaiser, we walk through a three-step model that changes outcomes—clinical treatment with Fire Mission Ministries, six months of service-intensive transitional housing at the Veterans Village in Shelby County, and a guided transition into permanent homes.

You’ll hear how a small band of Vietnam veterans sparked the village with their own money and community grit, how Thursday dinners keep belonging alive, and why tiny homes become launchpads for benefits, healthcare, transportation, and credit repair. We unpack the meaning behind “Fire Mission,” a phrase borrowed from combat that now anchors a faith-forward, judgment-free approach: suppress the chaos—hunger, isolation, untreated PTSD, TBI, and addiction—so people can move again. The result is measurable: dozens of program graduates with many of them becoming homeowners within a year of completing the program, including one alumnus who now serves on the board.

If you care about veteran homelessness, addiction recovery, PTSD support, or community-led solutions, this story offers a blueprint. Want to help or refer a veteran? Visit firemissionministries.com and vroky.org, join a Thursday dinner, or follow VRO on Facebook for real-time needs and wins. If this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so more people find pathways that work.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Some gaps are obvious once you’ve lived through them. Brady Wright, a combat Veteran turned ministry leader, describes the moment he realized why so many vets were cycling from hospital detox back to the street; there was no immediate bridge into stable, supportive housing. Together with event coordinator and fellow veteran Marla Kaiser, we walk through a three-step model that changes outcomes—clinical treatment with Fire Mission Ministries, six months of service-intensive transitional housing at the Veterans Village in Shelby County, and a guided transition into permanent homes.

You’ll hear how a small band of Vietnam veterans sparked the village with their own money and community grit, how Thursday dinners keep belonging alive, and why tiny homes become launchpads for benefits, healthcare, transportation, and credit repair. We unpack the meaning behind “Fire Mission,” a phrase borrowed from combat that now anchors a faith-forward, judgment-free approach: suppress the chaos—hunger, isolation, untreated PTSD, TBI, and addiction—so people can move again. The result is measurable: dozens of program graduates with many of them becoming homeowners within a year of completing the program, including one alumnus who now serves on the board.

If you care about veteran homelessness, addiction recovery, PTSD support, or community-led solutions, this story offers a blueprint. Want to help or refer a veteran? Visit firemissionministries.com and vroky.org, join a Thursday dinner, or follow VRO on Facebook for real-time needs and wins. If this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so more people find pathways that work.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-18177598 Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2054 full false Getting Lost On Purpose: The Art, Science, And Soul of Surrounding Getting Lost On Purpose: The Art, Science, And Soul of Surrounding A flat map can’t explain why a roadside rock wall feels like a time machine. That’s where Ronald R. (Reggie) Van Stockum Jr. comes in. He’s a lawyer who practices environmental law, a biologist with a PhD, an author who writes like a traveler-poet, and a musician with a knack for rhythm on the page. Together we follow his Surrounding® philosophy — skip the pre-research, chase the blank spaces on the map, write while the feeling is fresh — and discover how Kentucky reveals itself when you’re willing to get lost on purpose.

We start with the ground truth: Kentucky wasn’t planed by glaciers. It’s an unglaciated landscape where Ordovician and Silurian rocks hold fossils you can spot in highway cuts between Shelbyville and Simpsonville. Reggie breaks down why Indiana’s plains are geologically young, how to read a cuesta at a glance, and where to look for crinoid stems and ancient sea life. The science flows into field craft as we wade into Clear Creek to talk Unionidae—fat muckets, washboards—and how learning species turns a casual paddle into a living museum. Geography becomes biography when Reggie traces the old routes: Old Harrod's Trace through Shelby County, Squire Boone’s detour that sparked Painted Stone, and the many ways patents, deeds, and local historians map stories back onto the land.

Van Stockum's Surrounding® series of books, which he terms "Journey Logs," unlocks that way of seeing. Surrounding® Mammoth Cave celebrates everything you missed on the way to the marquee attraction. Surrounding® The Kentucky River follows the three forks and the towns tucked into them. Surrounding® Fort Knox balloons into a 700-plus-page love letter to overlooked places. We talk about the essays that went viral for shining a kind light on Gravel Switch, Brandenburg, and the “Pillars of Hercules” in Estill County, and we preview his next deep dive: Surrounding® Bardstown by chasing the wild, rugged Salt River drainage across the Eden Shale belt. Along the way, we share why Grove Hill Cemetery functions like a pre-Internet social network, how small venues can hold big music nights, and why meeting local historians can change your route—and your mind.

If you’re hungry for Kentucky travel that’s more than a checklist, this conversation offers a toolkit: read the rocks, follow the drainages, ask better questions, and honor the people who keep the stories. Subscribe, share this with a friend who loves back roads, and leave a review with the most surprising place yo

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> A flat map can’t explain why a roadside rock wall feels like a time machine. That’s where Ronald R. (Reggie) Van Stockum Jr. comes in. He’s a lawyer who practices environmental law, a biologist with a PhD, an author who writes like a traveler-poet, and a musician with a knack for rhythm on the page. Together we follow his Surrounding® philosophy — skip the pre-research, chase the blank spaces on the map, write while the feeling is fresh — and discover how Kentucky reveals itself when you’re willing to get lost on purpose.

We start with the ground truth: Kentucky wasn’t planed by glaciers. It’s an unglaciated landscape where Ordovician and Silurian rocks hold fossils you can spot in highway cuts between Shelbyville and Simpsonville. Reggie breaks down why Indiana’s plains are geologically young, how to read a cuesta at a glance, and where to look for crinoid stems and ancient sea life. The science flows into field craft as we wade into Clear Creek to talk Unionidae—fat muckets, washboards—and how learning species turns a casual paddle into a living museum. Geography becomes biography when Reggie traces the old routes: Old Harrod's Trace through Shelby County, Squire Boone’s detour that sparked Painted Stone, and the many ways patents, deeds, and local historians map stories back onto the land.

Van Stockum's Surrounding® series of books, which he terms "Journey Logs," unlocks that way of seeing. Surrounding® Mammoth Cave celebrates everything you missed on the way to the marquee attraction. Surrounding® The Kentucky River follows the three forks and the towns tucked into them. Surrounding® Fort Knox balloons into a 700-plus-page love letter to overlooked places. We talk about the essays that went viral for shining a kind light on Gravel Switch, Brandenburg, and the “Pillars of Hercules” in Estill County, and we preview his next deep dive: Surrounding® Bardstown by chasing the wild, rugged Salt River drainage across the Eden Shale belt. Along the way, we share why Grove Hill Cemetery functions like a pre-Internet social network, how small venues can hold big music nights, and why meeting local historians can change your route—and your mind.

If you’re hungry for Kentucky travel that’s more than a checklist, this conversation offers a toolkit: read the rocks, follow the drainages, ask better questions, and honor the people who keep the stories. Subscribe, share this with a friend who loves back roads, and leave a review with the most surprising place yo

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-18063495 Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2581 15 full false Inside The Backwards Backpack: How Sensory Tools Help Autistic Kids In Crisis Inside The Backwards Backpack: How Sensory Tools Help Autistic Kids In Crisis A roadside crash. A child on the spectrum overwhelmed by noise and confusion. One pair of headphones, a set of picture cards, and a dinosaur-weighted plush turn panic into calm. That pivot—from chaos to connection—is the heart of our conversation with Aaron and Ashlea Garofola, the co-founders of The Backwards Backpack, a grassroots nonprofit outfitting first responders, schools, and families with sensory bags that work in real time.

We dig into how the idea was born from a devastating ER moment and grew into a county-wide network where every EMS vehicle and fire truck carries tools designed for autistic kids under stress. You’ll hear exactly what goes into each backpack—noise-canceling headphones, an LCD writing tablet, visual communication cards, fidgets, chewables, snacks, water, and a four-pound weighted animal—and why these items follow evidence-based principles from occupational therapy and crisis communication. The Garofolas share powerful field stories, including a scene where a child pointed to “scared” and self-regulated once the environment quieted and choices made sense. It’s practical, repeatable, and deeply humane.

We also get tactical about safety and support at home: applying for Medicaid waivers, selecting safety beds and locks, using alarms and cameras to prevent elopement, and understanding the heightened risks around water. If you’re navigating early signs, we cover the realities of diagnosis waitlists, why to call early, and how to document regression or communication changes. From Shelby County to surrounding districts, we map the path to scale—low overhead, local sponsors, school integrations, and partnerships with multi-county agencies and foster care services—so other communities can adopt the model.

Join us to learn how a simple bag can change outcomes for autistic kids, reduce trauma on scene, and give families a toolkit they can trust. Subscribe, share with someone who needs this, and leave a review to help more counties gear up with Backwards Backpacks.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> A roadside crash. A child on the spectrum overwhelmed by noise and confusion. One pair of headphones, a set of picture cards, and a dinosaur-weighted plush turn panic into calm. That pivot—from chaos to connection—is the heart of our conversation with Aaron and Ashlea Garofola, the co-founders of The Backwards Backpack, a grassroots nonprofit outfitting first responders, schools, and families with sensory bags that work in real time.

We dig into how the idea was born from a devastating ER moment and grew into a county-wide network where every EMS vehicle and fire truck carries tools designed for autistic kids under stress. You’ll hear exactly what goes into each backpack—noise-canceling headphones, an LCD writing tablet, visual communication cards, fidgets, chewables, snacks, water, and a four-pound weighted animal—and why these items follow evidence-based principles from occupational therapy and crisis communication. The Garofolas share powerful field stories, including a scene where a child pointed to “scared” and self-regulated once the environment quieted and choices made sense. It’s practical, repeatable, and deeply humane.

We also get tactical about safety and support at home: applying for Medicaid waivers, selecting safety beds and locks, using alarms and cameras to prevent elopement, and understanding the heightened risks around water. If you’re navigating early signs, we cover the realities of diagnosis waitlists, why to call early, and how to document regression or communication changes. From Shelby County to surrounding districts, we map the path to scale—low overhead, local sponsors, school integrations, and partnerships with multi-county agencies and foster care services—so other communities can adopt the model.

Join us to learn how a simple bag can change outcomes for autistic kids, reduce trauma on scene, and give families a toolkit they can trust. Subscribe, share with someone who needs this, and leave a review to help more counties gear up with Backwards Backpacks.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-18063061 Thu, 30 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1422 15 full false How A Family Farm Became A Must-Visit Destination In Kentucky How A Family Farm Became A Must-Visit Destination In Kentucky Want the kind of day that smells like sweet corn, tastes like warm apple cider donuts, and ends with muddy boots and full hearts? We sit down with Gabriella Gallrein of Gallrein Farms to explore how a third-generation family operation became one of Kentucky’s most beloved agritourism destinations without losing its roots.

The story starts decades ago, with a move from Louisville to Shelbyville, when dairy days gave way to greenhouses, u-pick strawberries, and a market famous for peaches-and-cream sweet corn. Gabriella walks us through the seasonal rhythm: spring blooms and starter plants, summer’s overflowing produce stands, and a sunflower and corn festival designed to get families outdoors among acres of color. Then comes fall—the big one—with hayrides to the pumpkin patch, a corn maze, jump pillows, barrel trains, a haunted house, and those donuts people line up for. We talk practical tips too: weekend vs. weekday timing, what’s open when, and how the cafe turns farm-fresh tomatoes and lettuce into pressed paninis and homemade sides worth the trip.

Beyond the fun, there’s real scale and innovation. Gallrein farms 1,200 acres, supplies local restaurants and select farmers markets, and recently installed solar panels with help from the USDA REAP program to cut costs and reduce energy use. Gabriella also shares her path from Navy aviator to farm leader, why community tables beat standard seating, and how the event pavilion hosts company picnics and large gatherings with ease. If you’re looking for Shelby County attractions, Kentucky agritourism, sunflower fields, pumpkin patches, or the best sweet corn around, this conversation maps your perfect visit.

Subscribe, share with a friend who loves a good farm day, and leave a review to help more people find Kentucky’s hidden wonders.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Want the kind of day that smells like sweet corn, tastes like warm apple cider donuts, and ends with muddy boots and full hearts? We sit down with Gabriella Gallrein of Gallrein Farms to explore how a third-generation family operation became one of Kentucky’s most beloved agritourism destinations without losing its roots.

The story starts decades ago, with a move from Louisville to Shelbyville, when dairy days gave way to greenhouses, u-pick strawberries, and a market famous for peaches-and-cream sweet corn. Gabriella walks us through the seasonal rhythm: spring blooms and starter plants, summer’s overflowing produce stands, and a sunflower and corn festival designed to get families outdoors among acres of color. Then comes fall—the big one—with hayrides to the pumpkin patch, a corn maze, jump pillows, barrel trains, a haunted house, and those donuts people line up for. We talk practical tips too: weekend vs. weekday timing, what’s open when, and how the cafe turns farm-fresh tomatoes and lettuce into pressed paninis and homemade sides worth the trip.

Beyond the fun, there’s real scale and innovation. Gallrein farms 1,200 acres, supplies local restaurants and select farmers markets, and recently installed solar panels with help from the USDA REAP program to cut costs and reduce energy use. Gabriella also shares her path from Navy aviator to farm leader, why community tables beat standard seating, and how the event pavilion hosts company picnics and large gatherings with ease. If you’re looking for Shelby County attractions, Kentucky agritourism, sunflower fields, pumpkin patches, or the best sweet corn around, this conversation maps your perfect visit.

Subscribe, share with a friend who loves a good farm day, and leave a review to help more people find Kentucky’s hidden wonders.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-18062792 Thu, 23 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400 1059 14 full false Gabriella Gallrein Janette Marson Mason Warren Hoofprints on the Heart: A Couple's Path Through Kentucky Horse Country Hoofprints on the Heart: A Couple's Path Through Kentucky Horse Country Judge Dan Ison and Debbie Holloway Ison share their journey through Kentucky's horse country, from thoroughbred racing dreams to quarter horse breeding and equine therapy programs. Their 36-year marriage has united their complementary passions for horses while building careers in public service, professional speaking, and community development.

  • Judge Dan Ison has served as Shelby County Judge Executive for 10 years after 30 years in corporate America
  • Debbie has been a professional coach and speaker for 25 years, now focusing on training speakers and women's events
  • Debbie rescued her first horse at age 12 when she convinced a farm owner not to put down a paint draft horse
  • Judge Ison's childhood dream of owning racehorses was motivated by a teacher telling him it would never happen
  • The Isons met at a Derby Festival board meeting almost 40 years ago
  • Debbie breeds quarter horses with championship bloodlines for reining competitions
  • Judge Ison has owned approximately 15 racehorses throughout his career
  • Debbie conducts "Join Up" demonstrations at Horse Sensing to help recovery patients through equine therapy
  • Judge Ison rescued two horses including Player, who remained his confidant for 30 years
  • Throughout his corporate career, Judge Eisen worked with celebrities including Dolly Parton and John Wayne

To learn more about ShelbyKY Tourism and to start planning a visit, head to visitshelbyky.com.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Judge Dan Ison and Debbie Holloway Ison share their journey through Kentucky's horse country, from thoroughbred racing dreams to quarter horse breeding and equine therapy programs. Their 36-year marriage has united their complementary passions for horses while building careers in public service, professional speaking, and community development.

  • Judge Dan Ison has served as Shelby County Judge Executive for 10 years after 30 years in corporate America
  • Debbie has been a professional coach and speaker for 25 years, now focusing on training speakers and women's events
  • Debbie rescued her first horse at age 12 when she convinced a farm owner not to put down a paint draft horse
  • Judge Ison's childhood dream of owning racehorses was motivated by a teacher telling him it would never happen
  • The Isons met at a Derby Festival board meeting almost 40 years ago
  • Debbie breeds quarter horses with championship bloodlines for reining competitions
  • Judge Ison has owned approximately 15 racehorses throughout his career
  • Debbie conducts "Join Up" demonstrations at Horse Sensing to help recovery patients through equine therapy
  • Judge Ison rescued two horses including Player, who remained his confidant for 30 years
  • Throughout his corporate career, Judge Eisen worked with celebrities including Dolly Parton and John Wayne

To learn more about ShelbyKY Tourism and to start planning a visit, head to visitshelbyky.com.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-17829947 Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0400 1385 13 full false How a Small School in Shelby County is Shaping Kentucky's Future Leaders How a Small School in Shelby County is Shaping Kentucky's Future Leaders We explore Cornerstone Christian Academy with Advancement Director Annette Hill, discovering how this 42-year-old institution is shaping the future leaders of Shelby County through faith-based education and community involvement.

  • Cornerstone Christian Academy is a non-denominational pre-K through 12th grade school with approximately 330 students
  • The school offers a unique Greek language program instead of traditional foreign languages, benefiting students pursuing ministry, missions, archaeology, and medical fields
  • New flexible scheduling allows secondary students more choices, including specialized courses in pre-law and forensics
  • 90% of graduates remain in Shelby County, contributing to the local community as leaders
  • The Fall Festival on September 12th (6-9pm) will feature vendors, games, hay rides, a senior cake decorating competition, and more
  • Half of the festival proceeds support the Cornerstone Fund while the other half helps fund the senior class trip
  • The school focuses on developing character, moral compass, and values alongside academic excellence

For more information about Cornerstone Christian Academy or to inquire about enrollment, call 502-633-4070.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> We explore Cornerstone Christian Academy with Advancement Director Annette Hill, discovering how this 42-year-old institution is shaping the future leaders of Shelby County through faith-based education and community involvement.

  • Cornerstone Christian Academy is a non-denominational pre-K through 12th grade school with approximately 330 students
  • The school offers a unique Greek language program instead of traditional foreign languages, benefiting students pursuing ministry, missions, archaeology, and medical fields
  • New flexible scheduling allows secondary students more choices, including specialized courses in pre-law and forensics
  • 90% of graduates remain in Shelby County, contributing to the local community as leaders
  • The Fall Festival on September 12th (6-9pm) will feature vendors, games, hay rides, a senior cake decorating competition, and more
  • Half of the festival proceeds support the Cornerstone Fund while the other half helps fund the senior class trip
  • The school focuses on developing character, moral compass, and values alongside academic excellence

For more information about Cornerstone Christian Academy or to inquire about enrollment, call 502-633-4070.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-17829816 Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0400 1224 12 full false Juicy Secrets of Shelby County Juicy Secrets of Shelby County Mulberry Orchard celebrates its 15th season as a Shelby County treasure with 8,000 fruit trees and a commitment to authentic farm experiences. Fifth-generation farmer Amanda Gajdzik shares how her family transformed traditional farming operations into a thriving agritourism destination that educates visitors about where their food comes from.

  • Mulberry Orchard started in 2010 with 2,500 trees and has grown to 8,000 trees, primarily peaches and apples
  • The farm features produce from over 20 Kentucky Proud farms selling meats, honey, jellies, and local products
  • Their commercial kitchen offers a full lunch menu featuring farm-fresh ingredients 
  • Educational elements include playground equipment made from repurposed farm machinery with informative signage
  • Annual events include a Peach Festival (July), Sunflower Festival with butterfly releases, and fall activities
  • The farm employs about 30 people, including seasonal workers and teenagers gaining valuable work experience
  • Real farm-fresh peaches arrive by early July and are tree-ripened—completely different from store-bought peaches
  • Corn maze and other fall activities begin in September, including a special soybean maze for younger children
  • Mulberry Orchard previously hosted two Luke Bryan Farm Tour concerts, bringing 14-15,000 visitors to the farm

Come visit Mulberry Orchard in the Cropper area of Shelby County and experience fresh, local produce directly from our family farm!

Learn more about Mulberry Orchard at https://www.mulberryorchardky.com/. 

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Mulberry Orchard celebrates its 15th season as a Shelby County treasure with 8,000 fruit trees and a commitment to authentic farm experiences. Fifth-generation farmer Amanda Gajdzik shares how her family transformed traditional farming operations into a thriving agritourism destination that educates visitors about where their food comes from.

  • Mulberry Orchard started in 2010 with 2,500 trees and has grown to 8,000 trees, primarily peaches and apples
  • The farm features produce from over 20 Kentucky Proud farms selling meats, honey, jellies, and local products
  • Their commercial kitchen offers a full lunch menu featuring farm-fresh ingredients 
  • Educational elements include playground equipment made from repurposed farm machinery with informative signage
  • Annual events include a Peach Festival (July), Sunflower Festival with butterfly releases, and fall activities
  • The farm employs about 30 people, including seasonal workers and teenagers gaining valuable work experience
  • Real farm-fresh peaches arrive by early July and are tree-ripened—completely different from store-bought peaches
  • Corn maze and other fall activities begin in September, including a special soybean maze for younger children
  • Mulberry Orchard previously hosted two Luke Bryan Farm Tour concerts, bringing 14-15,000 visitors to the farm

Come visit Mulberry Orchard in the Cropper area of Shelby County and experience fresh, local produce directly from our family farm!

Learn more about Mulberry Orchard at https://www.mulberryorchardky.com/. 

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-17211084 Thu, 03 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1404 11 full false Amanda Gajdzik Janette Marson Mason Warren Beyond the Greens: Exploring Shelby County Parks Beyond the Greens: Exploring Shelby County Parks Derrick Griffitts brings a fresh perspective to Shelby County Parks and Recreation, transforming Kentucky's hidden outdoor treasures into accessible adventures for everyone. As a 25-year PGA golf professional who now directs the entire 960-acre park system, Griffiths shares his unique vision for connecting community members with nature's wonders.

The conversation reveals surprising gems scattered throughout Shelby County's three major parks and four mini parks. From the professional-level disc golf course at Red Orchard Park to Lake Shelby's expanding RV camping facilities, these spaces offer more than just recreation—they provide genuine adventures. Griffiths describes personal discoveries made while wading through Clear Creek with his nine-year-old son, including a collectible amber 1910 Coca-Cola bottle and potential Native American artifacts, showing how history lives beneath the surface of these natural spaces.

Technology meets tradition at the golf center, where PGA Tour-level TrackMan simulators engage children with interactive games like Mystic Pond, where players hit animated creatures from virtual water hazards. Meanwhile, the Red Fern Riding Center partnership at Shelby Trails offers guided horseback tours through beautiful woodlands, creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

The parks system truly shines in its community impact, hosting 885 games annually with 2,000 youth participants across multiple sports leagues. Griffiths shares moving stories of seniors finding renewed purpose and improved health through park activities, especially after retirement or illness recovery. "Parks can give people their life back," he explains, highlighting how these green spaces foster essential social connections.

Exciting developments are reshaping the parks experience, including a new website and mobile app for streamlined registration, a revitalized Family Activity Center with arcade games and sensory play elements, and a $150,000 grant-funded transformation of Little Heroes Playground with ADA-compliant recycled rubber surfacing. Plans for a music festival at Red Orchard Park featuring local and bluegrass bands promise to create new community traditions.

What adventures await you in Shelby County Parks? Whether creek exploring, disc golfing, or simply connecting with nature, these hidden Kentucky treasures invite your discovery.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Derrick Griffitts brings a fresh perspective to Shelby County Parks and Recreation, transforming Kentucky's hidden outdoor treasures into accessible adventures for everyone. As a 25-year PGA golf professional who now directs the entire 960-acre park system, Griffiths shares his unique vision for connecting community members with nature's wonders.

The conversation reveals surprising gems scattered throughout Shelby County's three major parks and four mini parks. From the professional-level disc golf course at Red Orchard Park to Lake Shelby's expanding RV camping facilities, these spaces offer more than just recreation—they provide genuine adventures. Griffiths describes personal discoveries made while wading through Clear Creek with his nine-year-old son, including a collectible amber 1910 Coca-Cola bottle and potential Native American artifacts, showing how history lives beneath the surface of these natural spaces.

Technology meets tradition at the golf center, where PGA Tour-level TrackMan simulators engage children with interactive games like Mystic Pond, where players hit animated creatures from virtual water hazards. Meanwhile, the Red Fern Riding Center partnership at Shelby Trails offers guided horseback tours through beautiful woodlands, creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

The parks system truly shines in its community impact, hosting 885 games annually with 2,000 youth participants across multiple sports leagues. Griffiths shares moving stories of seniors finding renewed purpose and improved health through park activities, especially after retirement or illness recovery. "Parks can give people their life back," he explains, highlighting how these green spaces foster essential social connections.

Exciting developments are reshaping the parks experience, including a new website and mobile app for streamlined registration, a revitalized Family Activity Center with arcade games and sensory play elements, and a $150,000 grant-funded transformation of Little Heroes Playground with ADA-compliant recycled rubber surfacing. Plans for a music festival at Red Orchard Park featuring local and bluegrass bands promise to create new community traditions.

What adventures await you in Shelby County Parks? Whether creek exploring, disc golfing, or simply connecting with nature, these hidden Kentucky treasures invite your discovery.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-17211265 Thu, 19 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1966 10 full false Tracing Roots: A Journey Through Shelby County's Genealogical Treasures Tracing Roots: A Journey Through Shelby County's Genealogical Treasures Sarahbeth Farabee, head genealogist at the Shelby County Public Library and vice president of the Shelby County Historical Society, shares her passion for genealogy and the extensive resources available at the library's Kentucky Room.

  • Started researching family history in her 20s by contacting distant relatives through letters
  • Found surprising connections including relation to Francis Scott Key and an ancestor executed after the Battle of Kings Mountain
  • Had a spiritual experience visiting her ancestor's pre-Civil War home in Ohio
  • Offers free genealogy assistance to Shelby County residents regardless of where their ancestors lived
  • The Kentucky Room houses family files, historical maps, newspaper archives back to 1841, and yearbooks
  • Library provides free access to Ancestry.com and Newspapers.com for patrons
  • Recommends starting research by interviewing older family members before knowledge is lost
  • Suggests using Find A Grave, census records, and courthouse archives for research
  • The Carnegie Library building (1903) stands on former cemetery grounds with preserved headstones
  • Science Hill School for Girls 200th anniversary exhibit available at the Historical Society until year-end

Visit the Shelby County Public Library's Kentucky Room during regular library hours. Though it remains locked to protect rare materials, staff will gladly provide access to anyone interested in exploring genealogical resources.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Sarahbeth Farabee, head genealogist at the Shelby County Public Library and vice president of the Shelby County Historical Society, shares her passion for genealogy and the extensive resources available at the library's Kentucky Room.

  • Started researching family history in her 20s by contacting distant relatives through letters
  • Found surprising connections including relation to Francis Scott Key and an ancestor executed after the Battle of Kings Mountain
  • Had a spiritual experience visiting her ancestor's pre-Civil War home in Ohio
  • Offers free genealogy assistance to Shelby County residents regardless of where their ancestors lived
  • The Kentucky Room houses family files, historical maps, newspaper archives back to 1841, and yearbooks
  • Library provides free access to Ancestry.com and Newspapers.com for patrons
  • Recommends starting research by interviewing older family members before knowledge is lost
  • Suggests using Find A Grave, census records, and courthouse archives for research
  • The Carnegie Library building (1903) stands on former cemetery grounds with preserved headstones
  • Science Hill School for Girls 200th anniversary exhibit available at the Historical Society until year-end

Visit the Shelby County Public Library's Kentucky Room during regular library hours. Though it remains locked to protect rare materials, staff will gladly provide access to anyone interested in exploring genealogical resources.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-17210679 Thu, 05 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2585 9 full false Sarahbeth Farabee Janette Marson Mason Warren See Kentucky On Horseback See Kentucky On Horseback Justine Saudan and Lyndsey Estes from Red Fern Riding Center share how they're bringing authentic horseback experiences to visitors and locals alike at Shelby Trails Park in Simpsonville, Kentucky. Their riding center offers guided trail rides, English riding lessons, boarding services and equestrian events while focusing on safety, accessibility and exceptional horse care.

  • Located on 465 acres of county parkland in Simpsonville with trails for both horses and hikers
  • Offers two types of guided trail rides — a one-hour Nature Ride and a 90-minute Adventure Ride
  • Provides comprehensive safety measures including pre-assigned horses matched to riders, safety videos, helmets, and mounting platforms
  • Welcomes riders as young as 7 with no upper age limit (their oldest rider was 88)
  • Many horses come from rescue situations and are transformed through proper care and training
  • Attracts visitors from around the world including Australia, UAE, Japan and across the US
  • Partners with bourbon tour companies for combination experiences
  • Lesson program teaches "horsemanship from the ground up" for all ages and experience levels
  • Recently added signage improvements, GPS-mapped trails and a cross-country jumping course
  • Open Wednesday through Sunday with rides at 9 AM, 11 AM, 2 PM and 4 PM

Visit redfernridingcenter.com to book your trail ride or learn more about their programs.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Justine Saudan and Lyndsey Estes from Red Fern Riding Center share how they're bringing authentic horseback experiences to visitors and locals alike at Shelby Trails Park in Simpsonville, Kentucky. Their riding center offers guided trail rides, English riding lessons, boarding services and equestrian events while focusing on safety, accessibility and exceptional horse care.

  • Located on 465 acres of county parkland in Simpsonville with trails for both horses and hikers
  • Offers two types of guided trail rides — a one-hour Nature Ride and a 90-minute Adventure Ride
  • Provides comprehensive safety measures including pre-assigned horses matched to riders, safety videos, helmets, and mounting platforms
  • Welcomes riders as young as 7 with no upper age limit (their oldest rider was 88)
  • Many horses come from rescue situations and are transformed through proper care and training
  • Attracts visitors from around the world including Australia, UAE, Japan and across the US
  • Partners with bourbon tour companies for combination experiences
  • Lesson program teaches "horsemanship from the ground up" for all ages and experience levels
  • Recently added signage improvements, GPS-mapped trails and a cross-country jumping course
  • Open Wednesday through Sunday with rides at 9 AM, 11 AM, 2 PM and 4 PM

Visit redfernridingcenter.com to book your trail ride or learn more about their programs.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-17209792 Thu, 22 May 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1859 8 full false Justine Saudan Lyndsey Estes Janette Marson Mason Warren Unearthing Shelby County's Past: Tunnels, Time Capsules, and Hidden Stories Unearthing Shelby County's Past: Tunnels, Time Capsules, and Hidden Stories Deputy Judge Jon Park takes us on a journey through Shelby County's hidden gems and historical treasures, revealing surprising discoveries and community stories along the way. He shares his path from Illinois to Kentucky and explains how his background in ministry and public service prepared him for his current role.

  • Born near Abraham Lincoln's home in Springfield, Illinois, with a deep appreciation for history and civic engagement
  • Served as Executive Director of Constituent Services under Governor Matt Bevin, helping citizens navigate government resources
  • Spearheaded the Gold Star Family Memorial at Veterans Park, honoring families who lost loved ones in military service
  • Workers discovered what appeared to be a child's casket during excavation, which turned out to be a misplaced time capsule
  • The historic courthouse, built in 1912, revealed a hidden tunnel beneath its front steps during renovation
  • Colonel Sanders and his wife Claudia made Shelby County their home from the mid-1950s until their deaths
  • Ongoing restoration projects include the courthouse windows and the old stone jail with a $150,000 Brownfield grant
  • Describes Shelby County as "Mayberry" – a close-knit community where people work together to preserve history

Join us at the Kentucky State Fair to visit the expanded Shelby County booth and possibly meet Colonel Sanders and Abraham Lincoln reenactors!

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Deputy Judge Jon Park takes us on a journey through Shelby County's hidden gems and historical treasures, revealing surprising discoveries and community stories along the way. He shares his path from Illinois to Kentucky and explains how his background in ministry and public service prepared him for his current role.

  • Born near Abraham Lincoln's home in Springfield, Illinois, with a deep appreciation for history and civic engagement
  • Served as Executive Director of Constituent Services under Governor Matt Bevin, helping citizens navigate government resources
  • Spearheaded the Gold Star Family Memorial at Veterans Park, honoring families who lost loved ones in military service
  • Workers discovered what appeared to be a child's casket during excavation, which turned out to be a misplaced time capsule
  • The historic courthouse, built in 1912, revealed a hidden tunnel beneath its front steps during renovation
  • Colonel Sanders and his wife Claudia made Shelby County their home from the mid-1950s until their deaths
  • Ongoing restoration projects include the courthouse windows and the old stone jail with a $150,000 Brownfield grant
  • Describes Shelby County as "Mayberry" – a close-knit community where people work together to preserve history

Join us at the Kentucky State Fair to visit the expanded Shelby County booth and possibly meet Colonel Sanders and Abraham Lincoln reenactors!

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-17072345 Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1524 7 full false From Ground to Glass: Jeptha Creed Distillery From Ground to Glass: Jeptha Creed Distillery Joyce Nethery from Jeptha Creed Distillery shares her journey from chemical engineer to master distiller at her family's woman-owned, woman-run Kentucky bourbon operation. The distillery's signature Bloody Butcher corn creates distinctive flavor profiles in their spirits while honoring local heritage through sustainable farming practices. 🥃

  • Joyce leveraged her chemical engineering background, teaching experience, and business skills to create an authentic ground-to-glass distillery
  • The name Jeptha Creed honors the local Jeptha Knobs named by Daniel and Squire Boone in the 1700s
  • Their signature Bloody Butcher Corn dates to 1845 and imparts unique, earthy, nutty characteristics to their bourbon
  • Beyond bourbon, they produce vodka and moonshine from the same heritage corn
  • Upcoming events include the Bacon Brothers concert on June 21st and their annual Harvest Festival in October
  • Future releases include a special pink bourbon for breast cancer awareness month in October 2026
  • Visitors can enjoy free tastings, tours, cocktail classes, barrel tastings, outdoor games, and the Creed Café
  • Products are available in ten states with Pennsylvania and Virginia coming soon

Visit jepthacreed.com for more information. Open Thursday-Saturday 11am-6pm and Sunday noon-5pm.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Joyce Nethery from Jeptha Creed Distillery shares her journey from chemical engineer to master distiller at her family's woman-owned, woman-run Kentucky bourbon operation. The distillery's signature Bloody Butcher corn creates distinctive flavor profiles in their spirits while honoring local heritage through sustainable farming practices. 🥃

  • Joyce leveraged her chemical engineering background, teaching experience, and business skills to create an authentic ground-to-glass distillery
  • The name Jeptha Creed honors the local Jeptha Knobs named by Daniel and Squire Boone in the 1700s
  • Their signature Bloody Butcher Corn dates to 1845 and imparts unique, earthy, nutty characteristics to their bourbon
  • Beyond bourbon, they produce vodka and moonshine from the same heritage corn
  • Upcoming events include the Bacon Brothers concert on June 21st and their annual Harvest Festival in October
  • Future releases include a special pink bourbon for breast cancer awareness month in October 2026
  • Visitors can enjoy free tastings, tours, cocktail classes, barrel tastings, outdoor games, and the Creed Café
  • Products are available in ten states with Pennsylvania and Virginia coming soon

Visit jepthacreed.com for more information. Open Thursday-Saturday 11am-6pm and Sunday noon-5pm.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-16989956 Thu, 17 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1790 bourbon, jeptha creed, bourbon distillery, master distiller, Shelbyville, Kentucky, bourbon trail, Shelby County kentucky, Kentucky bourbon 6 full false Joyce Nethery Janette Marson Mason Warren Celebrating Shelby County's Rich History with Helen McKinney Celebrating Shelby County's Rich History with Helen McKinney Helen McKinney, Executive Director of the Shelby County Historical Society, reveals the rich historical significance of Shelby County and the many programs preserving its heritage. As a descendant of Samuel Boone (brother to Daniel and Squire), Helen brings a personal connection to the county's frontier past while leading efforts to celebrate America's upcoming 250th anniversary.

  • Historical Society programs include the popular History Matters Speaker Series with 50-75 attendees per session
  • Award-winning summer history camp engages 65-70 children annually with a waiting list for participation
  • Science Hill Female Academy celebrates its bicentennial in 2025, founded by Julia Tevis as one of the first female academies west of the Alleghenies 
  • Plans for America's 250th birthday include History Minutes videos, special programming, and a grand parade in 2026
  • The Historical Society is investigating the Simpsonville Massacre site where Confederate guerrillas killed Black Union soldiers
  • Hidden wonders like underground tunnels beneath Shelbyville and historic tombstones at the library grounds reveal unexplored aspects of local history
  • The museum is open Wednesday-Friday 10-4, Saturday 10-2 with membership starting at just $25 annually

Visit www.shelbykyhistory.org or contact director@shelbykyhistory.org to learn more about becoming a member, volunteer, or supporting their historical preservation efforts.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Helen McKinney, Executive Director of the Shelby County Historical Society, reveals the rich historical significance of Shelby County and the many programs preserving its heritage. As a descendant of Samuel Boone (brother to Daniel and Squire), Helen brings a personal connection to the county's frontier past while leading efforts to celebrate America's upcoming 250th anniversary.

  • Historical Society programs include the popular History Matters Speaker Series with 50-75 attendees per session
  • Award-winning summer history camp engages 65-70 children annually with a waiting list for participation
  • Science Hill Female Academy celebrates its bicentennial in 2025, founded by Julia Tevis as one of the first female academies west of the Alleghenies 
  • Plans for America's 250th birthday include History Minutes videos, special programming, and a grand parade in 2026
  • The Historical Society is investigating the Simpsonville Massacre site where Confederate guerrillas killed Black Union soldiers
  • Hidden wonders like underground tunnels beneath Shelbyville and historic tombstones at the library grounds reveal unexplored aspects of local history
  • The museum is open Wednesday-Friday 10-4, Saturday 10-2 with membership starting at just $25 annually

Visit www.shelbykyhistory.org or contact director@shelbykyhistory.org to learn more about becoming a member, volunteer, or supporting their historical preservation efforts.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-16785208 Thu, 03 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2264 shelby county history, kentucky history, history, historical, kentucky, shelbyville, simpsonville 5 full false Helen McKinney Janette Marson Mason Warren Dogwoods Bloom and Spotlights Shine in Shelby County, KY Dogwoods Bloom and Spotlights Shine in Shelby County, KY The episode delves into the vibrant community spirit of Shelby County, highlighted through the annual Dogwood Festival and the Shelby County Community Theater. Listeners gain insights into the festival's rich history, upcoming events, and the importance of local arts, education, and community engagement.

  • The Dogwood Festival roots back to the 1970s
  • Emphasis on community and education intertwining in the festival  
  • More than 120 artisan booths set for this year’s festival  
  • Expansion of entertainment options, including professional musicians  
  • The significance of the Shelby County Community Theater as a local cultural hub  
  • Plans for future growth and volunteer opportunities in the theater  
  • Encouragement for community involvement and feedback for future projects.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> The episode delves into the vibrant community spirit of Shelby County, highlighted through the annual Dogwood Festival and the Shelby County Community Theater. Listeners gain insights into the festival's rich history, upcoming events, and the importance of local arts, education, and community engagement.

  • The Dogwood Festival roots back to the 1970s
  • Emphasis on community and education intertwining in the festival  
  • More than 120 artisan booths set for this year’s festival  
  • Expansion of entertainment options, including professional musicians  
  • The significance of the Shelby County Community Theater as a local cultural hub  
  • Plans for future growth and volunteer opportunities in the theater  
  • Encouragement for community involvement and feedback for future projects.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-16528564 Thu, 20 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1817 4 full false Cyndi Skellie Janette Marson Mason Warren Two Centuries in Shelby County, Kentucky: Science Hill & Wakefield-Scearce Galleries Two Centuries in Shelby County, Kentucky: Science Hill & Wakefield-Scearce Galleries Discover the fascinating history behind Wakefield-Scearce Galleries and its integral role in Shelby County's heritage. Explore how a family-run business evolved from a grocery store into a celebrated destination for antiques and craftsmanship while unearthing stories that connect us to a rich past.

  • Meet Matt Burnett and learn about his journey at Wakefield-Scearce 
  • Explore the origins of the gallery, from silver rationing to julep cups 
  • Understand the craftsmanship behind handmade julep cups 
  • Hear about the gallery’s connections to U.S. presidents 
  • Discover the impressive silver vault and its historical significance 
  • Learn about the Science Hill Female Academy's rich history 
  • Get insights into the festive Christmas displays and their preparations 
  • Celebrate the upcoming 200th anniversary of the academy and community involvement

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Discover the fascinating history behind Wakefield-Scearce Galleries and its integral role in Shelby County's heritage. Explore how a family-run business evolved from a grocery store into a celebrated destination for antiques and craftsmanship while unearthing stories that connect us to a rich past.

  • Meet Matt Burnett and learn about his journey at Wakefield-Scearce 
  • Explore the origins of the gallery, from silver rationing to julep cups 
  • Understand the craftsmanship behind handmade julep cups 
  • Hear about the gallery’s connections to U.S. presidents 
  • Discover the impressive silver vault and its historical significance 
  • Learn about the Science Hill Female Academy's rich history 
  • Get insights into the festive Christmas displays and their preparations 
  • Celebrate the upcoming 200th anniversary of the academy and community involvement

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-16612472 Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2245 3 full false Matt Burnett Janette Marson Mason Warren Celebrating Art and Culture on Shelbyville's Historic Main Street Celebrating Art and Culture on Shelbyville's Historic Main Street Shelbyville, Kentucky, boasts a vibrant community spirit through Shelby Main Street, led by Darlene Snow. This episode explores the program's focus on design, promotion of local businesses, current beautification projects, and upcoming events while emphasizing the importance of community collaboration.  

  • Introduction to Darlene Snow and her journey  
  • Overview of Shelby Main Street and its role in the community  
  • The four focus areas of the Main Street program  
  • Ongoing beautification projects and local artist involvement  
  • Exciting events scheduled for 2025  
  • New businesses opening in downtown Shelbyville  
  • The Leadership Shelby program and its impact  
  • Community involvement and collaborative efforts  
  • Information on how to connect with Shelby Main Street

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Shelbyville, Kentucky, boasts a vibrant community spirit through Shelby Main Street, led by Darlene Snow. This episode explores the program's focus on design, promotion of local businesses, current beautification projects, and upcoming events while emphasizing the importance of community collaboration.  

  • Introduction to Darlene Snow and her journey  
  • Overview of Shelby Main Street and its role in the community  
  • The four focus areas of the Main Street program  
  • Ongoing beautification projects and local artist involvement  
  • Exciting events scheduled for 2025  
  • New businesses opening in downtown Shelbyville  
  • The Leadership Shelby program and its impact  
  • Community involvement and collaborative efforts  
  • Information on how to connect with Shelby Main Street

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-16530073 Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500 1407 kentucky, shelbyville, shelby county, shelbyky, travel, tourism, main street, shelby main street, economic development, history 2 full false Darlene Snow Janette Marson Mason Warren Healing Through Horses: The Transformative Power of Equine Therapy at HorseSensing Healing Through Horses: The Transformative Power of Equine Therapy at HorseSensing Discover the magic of equine therapy with Dr. Sally Broder, the visionary behind HorseSensing in Shelby County, Kentucky. With a heartfelt journey that took her from the sunny shores of California to the rolling hills of Kentucky, Dr. Broder has established a sanctuary for veterans and individuals grappling with addiction. Her passion for American Saddlebred Horses is just the beginning. Through the lens of Chris Carl's inspiring transformation, we witness the life-altering power of horse-human connections that HorseSensing fosters. These stories highlight not just recovery and growth but a deep-seated resilience drawn from a unique therapeutic approach.

Step into the vibrant world of HorseSensing's community events where the elegance of American Saddlebreds meets fun-filled activities. From farm tours and grooming lessons to thrilling demonstrations, there's something for everyone. Curious about how these programs thrive? Learn about their creative funding through grants, donations, and lively events like the HorseSensing Hoedown. As  Kentucky Hidden Wonders, HorseSensing's dedication to providing free support for mental health and substance abuse challenges has already touched many lives, with plans to reach even more. Join us for a conversation that promises inspiration and a glimpse into future possibilities.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Discover the magic of equine therapy with Dr. Sally Broder, the visionary behind HorseSensing in Shelby County, Kentucky. With a heartfelt journey that took her from the sunny shores of California to the rolling hills of Kentucky, Dr. Broder has established a sanctuary for veterans and individuals grappling with addiction. Her passion for American Saddlebred Horses is just the beginning. Through the lens of Chris Carl's inspiring transformation, we witness the life-altering power of horse-human connections that HorseSensing fosters. These stories highlight not just recovery and growth but a deep-seated resilience drawn from a unique therapeutic approach.

Step into the vibrant world of HorseSensing's community events where the elegance of American Saddlebreds meets fun-filled activities. From farm tours and grooming lessons to thrilling demonstrations, there's something for everyone. Curious about how these programs thrive? Learn about their creative funding through grants, donations, and lively events like the HorseSensing Hoedown. As  Kentucky Hidden Wonders, HorseSensing's dedication to providing free support for mental health and substance abuse challenges has already touched many lives, with plans to reach even more. Join us for a conversation that promises inspiration and a glimpse into future possibilities.

Send a text

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.

📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders:

© ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.

]]> Kentucky Hidden Wonders Buzzsprout-16527674 Thu, 06 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0500 1475 kentucky, shelbyville, shelby county, shelbyky, travel, tourism, saddlebred horses, horses, horse farm, horse farm tour, equine therapy 1 full false Dr. Sally Broder Janette Marson Mason Warren