Rick’s Rambles

AOL Nostalgia, The Church Dogs, and more!

Welcome to another episode of Rick's Rambles! Remember those AOL CDs that used to come in the mail or inside magazines? In our fun facts segment, we dive into the history of AOL and its lasting influence on today’s internet culture.
Next, we take a trip to England to meet two Labrador Retrievers who’ve become the beloved mascots of a local church. This heartwarming story will remind you of the incredible bond between humans and dogs.
In our Story Behind the Song segment, we break down the classic hit "Piano Man" by Billy Joel. And if you’re in the mood for more nostalgia, we’ve got a bonus segment on the days when you could find records on the backs of cereal boxes!
We wrap up with some quirky holidays of the week. Don't forget to share this episode and check out Ruby the Church Beagle on Facebook!

Cracker Barrel, California Girls and more! Week of September 9th!

Welcome back to another episode of the Rick's Rambles Podcast, your go-to show for 15 minutes of nostalgia, positivity, and wholesome content! In this episode, we’re kicking things off with some fun facts about one of America’s favorite roadside stops—Cracker Barrel! Did you know that Cracker Barrel once served as a gas station? Well, sort of! We’ll dive into the fascinating history of this American icon and share some little-known trivia that might surprise you.
Next up, we explore meaningful family traditions that you can start this week. Whether it’s a game night, a shared meal, or a creative project, we’ve got some ideas to help you build lasting memories with your loved ones. And remember, family doesn’t always mean blood relatives—it’s the people in your life who support and care for you.
In our Story Behind the Song segment, we turn back the clock to talk about one of the Beach Boys’ biggest hits—California Girls. From the sun-soaked lyrics to the iconic harmonies, we’ll uncover what makes this song such a timeless classic in American music history.
We’re also sharing three simple yet powerful ways to show kindness today—because even small gestures can make a big difference. And as always, we wrap up the show with our favorite quirky holidays for the week, giving you a reason to celebrate something fun every day.
Tune in, relax, and enjoy this week’s episode filled with nostalgia, family traditions, classic music, and ways to spread a little kindness.
 
 
If you'd like to support the Rick's Rambles Podcast, the simplest thing to do is share it on your social media!  If you'd like to support financially, you can do that here!

2024 Eagle Creek Folk Festival special edition!

In this special edition of the Rick's Rambles Podcast, I sit down with Steve Vandewater, chairperson of the 2024 Eagle Creek Folk Festival! This iconic festival, one of the longest-running in the Midwest, takes place on Saturday, September 14th, from Noon to 7 PM at beautiful Eagle Creek Park in Indianapolis, Indiana. Enjoy a day filled with folk music, traditional tunes, and the sweet sounds of the dulcimer. With free concerts, workshops, jamming sessions, a raffle, delicious food from The Sertoma Club, and more, this family-friendly event is one you won’t want to miss. Tune in to hear all about the magic of this folk celebration!
 
 
Links mentioned in the podcast:
 
Central Indiana Folk Music and Mountain Dulcimer Society
 
The Society's YouTube Channel

Welcome Back Kotter, The Copacabana, and more! Week of September 2nd

🎙️ It's Labor Day Weekend, and we're back with the September 2nd edition of the Rick's Rambles Podcast—a delightful journey through nostalgia, fun facts, and uplifting news! This week, we're diving into some fun facts about Welcome Back, Kotter, the beloved 1970s TV show that brought us laughs and unforgettable characters.
In our good news segment, we share an inspiring story about a gentleman who turned his life around, rising from the depths of despair to start making a positive impact on the world.
Then, get ready to head to the Copacabana as we explore the story behind Barry Manilow's classic hit.
But that's not all! We'll also take a nostalgic trip back 60 years to see the top 10 TV shows from this week in history, and we’ll wrap up with some quirky and fun holidays to celebrate.
Tune in for a feel-good episode that’s sure to make your holiday weekend even brighter!
 
If you'd like to support the podcast, the simplest thing to do is share it on your social media, and let folks know what you are listening to! 
If you'd like to support financially, you can buy me a cup of coffee here.  
 
As I mentioned in the podcast, I've partnered with The Tenderness Tour to help alleviate medical debt.  Every purchase and every stream of my song sends proceeds to this project.  Here are a couple of links,
 
Amazon
 
Spotify

Waffle House Fun Facts, Band on the Run, and more! Week of August 26th

Welcome back! In this week's episode, we're starting off with some fun and fascinating facts about the iconic Waffle House. Having spent many late nights there during my years as a touring musician, I've picked up a few interesting tidbits that you won't want to miss!
Next, we dive into our good news story of the week, where we explore simple ways we can all make a difference in the lives of the random folks we encounter every day.
Then, it's time for the story behind the song segment. This week, we're uncovering the tale behind Paul McCartney and Wings' hit Band on the Run. Ever wondered what this classic track is really about? You’re about to find out!
We'll also highlight some of the quirky and fun holidays you can celebrate this week. And don't miss out on hearing about a very special project I'm passionate about—helping alleviate undue medical debt for some very deserving people. You can join in this effort by simply streaming or purchasing a song. Check out the links below to get involved!
Tune in for all this and more on this week's episode of Rick's Rambles Podcast!
 
If you'd like to have a part in helping alleviate undue medical debt for some very deserving folks, it's simple.  You can simply purchase or stream my song I Love the Sound of a Train.  Below are a couple of links, but you can find it on ALL the major platforms.  Every stream, every purchase counts.
 
Spotify
 
Amazon
 
 

Woodstock fun facts, Convoy, and more! Week of August 19th

"In this week's episode, we're kicking things off with some fun and fascinating facts about Woodstock as we wrap up the 50th anniversary of this legendary event. Next, our good news story shines a spotlight on an inspiring woman who, despite a rough start in life, earned her GED, went on to medical school, and is now a doctor. Her journey is a testament to perseverance and determination. Then, in our story behind the song segment, we take a deep dive into the 70s classic 'Convoy' by C.W. McCall, exploring the tale behind this iconic trucking anthem. Finally, we'll close out the episode with a look at the fun and quirky days you can celebrate this week. It's an episode packed with inspiration, nostalgia, and a few surprises, so don't miss it!"

Geocaching, The Addams Family, and more!

Welcome back to the Rick's Rambles Podcast! It's the week of August 12th, 2024, and here's what you can expect from Happy Cat Studio!
We kick off with fun facts about the TV series The Addams Family. I have to admit, this show was never one of my favorites, but it was suggested by a listener. Now that I know more about it, I'm going to have to go watch it!
Up next, let's go geocaching! I give you an introduction to one of my favorite hobbies. It's a great family activity that folks of all ages can enjoy. Part treasure hunt, part exploration—if you've not tried it, you should. And since International Geocaching Day is this week, it's perfect timing.
Next, it's our story behind the song segment. This week, it's "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head" by B.J. Thomas. Do you know who wrote this hit? You'll find out in this segment!
Then we wrap up the show with our special days this week. We always find something quirky and fun to celebrate in this segment.
 
 
To visit the official Geocaching website, you can go to www.geocaching.com and get started today!
If you'd like to buy me a cup of coffee, and get your name on the radio worldwide, you can do that at  Buy Rick Garrett a Coffee. ko-fi.com/ricksrambles - Ko-fi ❤️ Where creators get support from fans through donations, memberships, shop sales and more! The original 'Buy Me a Coffee' Page.

Rhinestone Cowboy, Cleveland Oho and more! Week of August 5th

Welcome to the August 5th, 2024 episode of the Rick's Rambles Podcast! In this week's episode, we kick things off with some fun facts about a city I visited with low expectations but ended up loving—Cleveland, Ohio. In my opinion, it's a very underrated destination!
Next, in our good news segment, we explore some simple yet effective ways we can all positively impact our environment. Small changes can make a big difference!
Then, we dive into the story behind the iconic song "Rhinestone Cowboy." Do you know where this song was written? The answer might surprise you.
After that, we take a nostalgic look at some fast food items that don't exist anymore. Which ones do you remember?
We wrap up this episode with our special days for the week, highlighting unique and fun observances.
If you want to support the Rick's Rambles Podcast, the easiest thing to do is just share it on your social media! If you'd like to support financially, I'm doing something special in August. I do weekday segments of trivia and good news on Radio Mom, a family of radio stations in Central Indiana. But they're much more—they stream worldwide! If you buy me a cup of coffee during the month of August, I'll mention you on the radio! How cool is that?  If you'd like to hear your name on the radio, you can buy me a cup of coffee here.
Tune in and enjoy the ride!

Sweet Caroline, Spam Fun Facts, and more! Week of July 29th

Welcome back to the Rick's Rambles Podcast!
 
In this episode, we're diving into some fun facts about Spam—the meat, not the emails that flood our inboxes. I learned a lot while researching this, and I'm sure you will too
 
. Then, we'll hear an inspiring story about someone who embarked on a brand new and unexpected career at the age of 70, all thanks to a chance meeting with a stranger.
 
After that, I'll share seven practical tips to help you have a better day today.
 
In our "Behind the Song" segment, we delve into the story behind "Sweet Caroline," the iconic song by Neil Diamond
 
. As always, we'll wrap up the episode with our special days for the week.
 
Remember, each week, Rick's Rambles brings you the best in good news, fun facts, and inspiring content. If you haven't subscribed yet, be sure to do that today!
 
If you'd like to support the Rick's Rambles Podcast, the easiest thing to do is share it on your social media and let folks know what you are listening to!  If you'd like to by me a cup of coffee,  You can do that here.
 
As always, you are appreciated!

Amelia Earhart, HOtel California, and more!

This week on the Rick's Rambles Podcast, we've got a really fun and uplifting episode lined up for you!
We kick things off with some fascinating fun facts about aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, whose journey to fame is much deeper than many of us realize. Then, in our good news story of the week, we share an inspiring tale of a man who, despite being deeply depressed and ready to end his life, found a new love for living by simply doing something kind for his community.
Have you ever wondered what the song "Hotel California" really means? Wonder no more! In this week's Story Behind the Song segment, we delve into the intriguing origins and meaning of this classic hit. Finally, we wrap up the episode with a look at the quirky and fun special days for this week.
Each week, the Rick's Rambles Podcast brings you fun facts, good news, wholesome content, and more. New episodes drop every Monday morning. Please take a moment to share the Rick's Rambles Podcast on your social media and let folks know what you're listening to.