Gatlinburg: The Podcast is Calling

Struggling to plan a Gatlinburg trip that keeps every generation entertained without blowing the budget or stressing out? Discover how to turn a crowded itinerary into a seamless, unforgettable mountain getaway for the entire family. In this episode, hosts Brent and Caroline sit down with Dustin Ivey—Senior General Manager of Ripley’s Tennessee—and his four-year-old daughter, Waylon. Dustin breaks down why Gatlinburg is a premier family-friendly destination, shares local tips for balancing big-ticket attractions with relaxing downtime, and reveals how kid feedback directly shapes the region’s newest entertainment experiences. Plus, enjoy a fun trivia segment where little Wayland shares her absolute favorite Gatlinburg spots. Listen now to unlock local secrets, clever family travel strategies, and everything you need to plan your ultimate Smoky Mountain vacation!

Have you ever wondered who maintains the 800 miles of trails in America’s most visited national park, or how a mountaintop lodge gets its supplies without any roads? In this episode of Gatlinburg: The Podcast is Calling, we sit down with Katie Liming, Chief of Staff for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to pull back the curtain on the backyard of Gatlinburg. You'll discover the scientific secret behind the park's famous blue mist, how a dedicated team preserves over 100 historic log cabins, and the incredible role that a herd of llamas plays in keeping Mount LeConte thriving. Whether you are a first-time visitor looking to escape the crowds in hidden valleys like Cosby or a seasoned hiker looking for a new perspective along the Foothills Parkway, this insider guide will change how you experience the Smokies.

Did you know that Gatlinburg is home to the largest independent organization of actively working artisans in the United States? In our fourth episode, we venture beyond the Parkway to uncover a deeper, more traditional side of the Smokies. Our hosts Caroline Bean and Brent Thompson sit down with fifth-generation woodworker Joe Compton, owner of Joe Compton Woodworking and a cornerstone of the historic Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Joe takes us through the rich legacy of the 8-mile loop, sharing how his grandfather built a craftsmanship empire out of necessity during the Great Depression. You’ll learn how to navigate the trail like a pro, the unique science behind wood spaling, and why the local artisans offer a human connection that mass production can never replicate. Subscribe to get your insider pass to the soul of Gatlinburg, and head to Gatlinburg.com/podcast to enter our giveaway for a Gatlinburg Attractions Pass for up to six people!

Want to catch a breath of fresh air and completely distance yourself from the daily hustle? The secret is simple: you have to get above it all. In this episode, you’ll discover how a change in elevation completely changes your perspective, and you’ll get the ultimate blueprint to building a high-altitude itinerary for your next trip to the Smokies. Hosts Caroline Bean and Brent Thompson take you on a virtual tour of Gatlinburg’s peak experiences. We sit down with John McKay from SkyPark to discuss the thrill of crossing North America's longest tree-based skywalk. Then, Tyler Shultz from Ober Gatlinburg talks about the exciting new summer improvements and year-round fun. Finally, Austin Martin from Anakeesta joins the show to map out the perfect afternoon and the immersive magic of Astra Lumina. Plus, we break down why the newly renamed Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) is an absolute must-visit spot. Subscribe now to elevate your travel plans, and head to Gatlinburg.com/podcast to enter to win a Gatlinburg Attractions Pass for up to six people!

Think a bear in a tree is just taking a nap? What if we told you they can climb 70 feet high and snooze in a hollow branch for months? In this episode, you will learn the crucial “Dos and Don’ts” of visiting bear country so you can protect yourself, your family, and the local black bear population. Hosts Caroline Bean and Brent Thompson sit down with wildlife experts Janelle Musser (TWRA) and Ryan Williamson (National Park Service) to debunk common myths about hibernation and hunger. We dive into the science of "Hyperphagia"—the period where bears consume 20,000 calories a day—and explain why your "harmless" bird feeder might actually be a dangerous attractant. Plus, we hear the unforgettable "Story Capsule" about a bear named Richard who crashed a 60th birthday party to get a taste of some sheet cake. Subscribe to get your inside pass to the Smokies, and visit Gatlinburg.com/podcast to enter to win a Gatlinburg Attractions Pass for up to six people! Interested in learning more about Black Bears? Head to BearWise.org for more!

What does a Guinness World Record for breaking ice have to do with running one of America’s most visited mountain towns? In our premiere episode, hosts Caroline Bean and Brent Thompson sit down with the President and CEO of Visit Gatlinburg, Chad Netherland, to uncover the "Secrets and Soul" of the Smokies. You’ll discover the strategic vision behind Gatlinburg’s massive growth, why the town’s "walkability" is its secret weapon, and the real reason there are so many pancake houses on the Parkway. We also tackle the ultimate local mystery: What is the deal with that legendary parked BMW? Whether you’re a lifelong visitor or a first-timer, you’ll learn how this town of 4,000 residents manages to welcome over 10 million guests a year while keeping its authentic charm. Subscribe now to get your insider pass to the Smokies, and visit Gatlinburg.com/podcast to enter our exclusive giveaway!

Hosted by Caroline Bean, a travel brand expert shaping Gatlinburg’s national story, and Brent Thompson, a seasoned entertainer and storyteller with deep roots in East Tennessee, this show goes beyond the brochures to uncover the real Gatlinburg.