Shootin’ the Breeze

This episode contains sensitive topics including sexual assault, human trafficking of minors, drug use, and mental health struggles that could be triggering for some listeners. Due to these topics this episode may not be appropriate for all ages. Listener discretion is advised. In this powerful opening segment, Micaela sits down with human trafficking survivor, Alicia Tappan to shed light on a crisis hiding in plain sight- human trafficking in suburban America. Alicia courageously shares her harrowing journey, revealing how trafficking doesn't just happen in dark alleyways or foreign countries; it thrives in everyday communities, targeting the most unsuspecting victims. Through her firsthand account, Alicia describes how she was duped, manipulated, and kept in a world she never imagined. She speaks candidly about her experience, the warning signs that may have been missed, the psychological tactics traffickers use to maintain control, the barriers to leaving, and the long road to healing. As her story unfolds, listeners are confronted with an unsettling truth: trafficking can happen to anyone, anywhere. But Alicia's resilience and advocacy prove that survival is possible- and that awareness is the first step in breaking the cycle. National Human Trafficking Hotline 888-373-7888 or Text INFO to 233733 Rescue America Hotline 833-599-3733 Written and produced: Micaela Rollo Kirwan Original Score: Gavin Hoard ‪@GRH_Music‬ Graphic design: Micaela Rollo Kirwan

In this episode of Shootin’ the Breeze, Micaela tackles a hard-hitting topic: how modern politics are being shaped by loyalty over leadership and billionaires over ballots. Using Donald Trump’s recent endorsement of Jimmy Patronis for Florida’s 1st Congressional District as a jumping-off point, she examines the growing trend of prioritizing personal alliances over the needs of the electorate. Micaela also dives into the role of Elon Musk’s PAC and its potential impact on the democratic process, raising critical questions about whether concentrated wealth and power are eroding representation. From breaking down the differences between democracy and oligarchy to sharing practical ways for listeners to stay engaged, this episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the future of our political system. Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance A compelling memoir about resilience, family, and the American Dream, offering insights into the socioeconomic shifts that shaped the 2016 election. 👉 Find it here AP News Article on Elon Musk’s PAC This article details Musk’s intentions to influence Republican primaries through strategic PAC funding. 👉 Read it here The Bible Recap: Featuring Tara Leigh Cobble 👉 Check it out here Episode Written and Produced: Micaela Rollo Kirwan Original Score: Gavin Hoard GRH Music Graphic Design: Micaela Rollo Kirwan

Weight loss is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions—but is it really the best one? The truth is, achieving the body composition you’re striving for often takes longer than a single year, and maintaining health is a lifelong journey. Instead of setting yourself up for frustration, what if you approached weight loss with patience, persistence, and a focus on sustainable habits? In this episode, we’ll talk about starting small, avoiding overly restrictive diets, and giving yourself grace throughout the process. Licensed internist Dr. Cox joins me to share his expert insights on the factors that can impact your progress, from metabolism to lifestyle choices, and how to set realistic goals for long-term success. Grab your sweet tea, and join us for an honest conversation about why weight loss is a terrible New Year’s resolution—but an incredible journey when approached the right way! Written and Produced by: Micaela Rollo Kirwan Original Score: GRH Music Graphic Design: Micaela Rollo Kirwan

Episode 3: I Don’t Want to Be a Proverbs 31 Woman Anymore The Proverbs 31 woman is often celebrated as the ultimate standard for faith, virtue, and hard work—but what happens when trying to live up to her feels like an impossible task? In this episode, I’m diving into my own experience with this ideal, exploring how its message has shaped expectations for women, and why it’s time to rethink what it means to live a faithful and meaningful life. Does being a “godly woman” mean striving for perfection, or is there a more balanced and grace-filled way to honor our faith and purpose? Spoiler: I think there is. Grab your sweet tea, and join me as I challenge the expectations that have been handed down for generations and explore how we can embrace a more authentic and fulfilling version of faith and womanhood. Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42631.Having_a_Mary_Heart_in_a_Martha_World

This week, we’re diving into the controversy surrounding “banned” books. Are these books really banned, or is the story more nuanced? What does it mean when certain books are challenged, removed from curriculums, or taken off library shelves? Together, we’ll explore how these decisions shape the way we think about freedom of thought, education, and who controls the narrative. As a mom, advocate, and unapologetic book lover, I’ll unpack the cultural debates surrounding these so-called bans and what they reveal about our society today. Spoiler alert: these books may not be truly off-limits, but the conversation is anything but simple. So, grab your sweet tea and join me as we dig into a topic that’s as complicated as it is captivating.

Welcome to the first episode of a podcast that’s anything but polite! Join me as I step into the murky waters of politics, religion, money, and all the topics Cotillion warned us never to discuss at the dinner table. Life’s too short for small talk, so let’s have the conversations that matter—with a little Southern charm and a lot of honesty. In this debut episode, I’ll share why I felt compelled to create a space where even the most awkward subjects can be explored in a level-headed, thoughtful way. With a life rooted in Southern tradition, a heart shaped by the chaos of blended family life, and a mind sharpened by political and community work, I’m here to dive deep into the things that might make you squirm—but in the most interesting way possible. Grab your sweet tea, and let’s get to it!