Backwoods and Brainstorms

Chad and Sanford talk about the issues they face in their days and how, when faced with a decision, if we don't make a decision, we still make one. 

Chad and I had a crazy week and didn't have time to select a topic, so we just talked about whatever came to mind. It was a fun discussion. 

Chad and Sanford talk about how they are both authors, a path neither intended to take in the same way. Sanford has been working on his fantasy novels for over 40 years, and Chad's new novel, Holler Wars, authored with Paul Monk, was not a thought or plan a few years ago, but is now available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Holler-Wars-Dravens-Mill-Thriller-ebook/dp/B0GMP8ZC7Q/

Chad and Sanford talk about their experiences with this latest snow, sleet, ice, and more slow event over the last week and many other things. 
And acting in the theme of the podcast, Sanford slid his truck off the side of his icy driveway on the way home from the recording. 

Chad and Sanford talk about dreams and the impact of Martin Luther King Jr. in their lives, and what they think we should do to make the world a better place. 

Chad and Sanford talk about the power of music in their lives, including their favorite songs, go-tos, and how they discover new music. 

At the start of 2026, Chad and Sanford talk about starting new endeavors and overcoming adversity. 

Paul Monk joins Chad and Sanford for a spirited conversation on unlikely friendships and a host of other subjects. 

Chad, Sanford and guest Matthew talk about dealing with the chaos that is inherent in the holiday times. 
 
Merry Christmas all
 
The holiday season is supposed to be a time of peace, joy, family, and celebration—but it often feels more like a race against the clock. In this episode of Backwoods and Brainstorms, Sanford, Chad, and guest Matthew discuss the chaos that accompanies the holidays, from crowded schedules and financial pressure to shopping, decorating, travel, family obligations, and the constant effort to make everything perfect.
The conversation considers how a season built around meaningful traditions can become overwhelmed by commercialism, unrealistic expectations, and the pressure to please everyone. Sanford and Chad reflect on the differences between the holidays they remember growing up and the increasingly complicated celebrations of today. They also explore the mixture of happiness, nostalgia, stress, and occasional family tension that makes the season both special and exhausting.
With their familiar humor, personal stories, and contrasting perspectives, Sanford and Chad ask whether people have lost sight of what the holidays are supposed to represent. The episode offers an entertaining and relatable look at the madness surrounding the season—and a reminder that the most memorable holiday moments are rarely the ones that went perfectly.

It took two attempts, and we got this podcast completed on Christmas time, talking about what we love about, some of the challenges and some interesting memories.