On Carlson Drive

So what’s it really like to be married to a musician? In this episode, Wendy tells the stories that live just behind the music—from a tiny cowboy singing on a chair, to pianos played at all hours, to a wedding arrangement written at the very last minute (of course). “I’m With the Band” is a fond, funny look at life alongside Randy’s musical journey: early talent, unlikely recording sessions, road trips, motherhood, and the quiet, often invisible support that keeps the music going. It’s part love story, part backstage pass, and part gentle reflection on learning to cheer loudly—and eventually step back into your own song too. Because sometimes you might not be the one in the spotlight… but you're with the band. 🎶 Come take a walk with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

In this episode, Wendy's daughter, Grace, reflects on a grandmother known less through shared stories and more through fleeting moments—glances, gestures, and the soft presence of a woman living with dementia. While others remember Ruth as a vibrant writer, advocate, and force of personality, Grace explores the version she knew: gentle, distant, and deeply human. Through images, metaphors, and family reflections, this episode honors both the grandmother she didn’t get to know and the one she did—revealing how love can be carried not just through stories, but through what remains when memory fades. Then join Wendy and her sisters-in-law Robin and Rhonda for an emotion-filled conversation about the Ruth they knew as they meditate on shared memories, inheritance, and the quiet ways love endures. Come take a walk with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

What started as “just band” turns into a deeply personal reflection on British-style brass banding, Salvation Army roots, and a six-generation musical legacy that stretches back to England. From cornets instead of trumpets to family mentors, competitions, and the joy of making music together, this episode explores how tradition, humility, and love for the craft matter far more than being the best. A story about gratitude, heritage, and the music that binds generations together. Then, join Wendy and Helen Harrelson – world-renown brass band instrumentalist, conductor, and enthusiast – as they talk about all things brass band. Come take a walk with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

D.I.Y., home makeover, fixer upper...whatever you call it, we're right there with you. Sometimes you either like to do the work or you need to do the work yourself. And we've had our share of projects around the house. In this episode, Wendy talks about the many do-it-yourself house work that we either chose to do or was forced on us. Wendy is joined by her husband Randy as they relive some of the funny moments along their home renovation journey. Come take a walk with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

Just in time, OUR CHRISTMAS EPISODE drops! This one is about telling stories and a reminder that who is listening really matters. And in response, Wendy crafts a special Christmas story for the little ears that we know are tuning in (and picking up a lot more than we realize). The conversation that follows is one where we set up a microphone to see what we might be able to catch with Wendy and her grandson, Micah. Then Wendy and Erin (Micah's mom) discuss what little ears hear (and repeat) and how one particular child is so particular about a nativity set. Come take a walk with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

An unexpected relationship begins after a difficult diagnosis and a friendship emerges. And while there is so often joy in the journey, sometimes that journey also involves walking alongside others in the midst of their suffering. Ann's story is one of deep loss, yet it is one filled with hope, joy, and gratitude. The conversation that follows is between Wendy and Ann's husband, Ron. They discuss the challenges of Alzheimer's, watching your loved one deal with its unrelenting grip, and the gift of having shared life with someone like Ann. Come take a walk with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

Fathers are tall trees, especially to this girl. In this episode, Wendy takes a walk down Carlson Drive in an attempt to capture the man, the myth, and the legend of Dad - who can only be captured because of a sharp stick in the eye.The conversation that follows is between Wendy and her three daughters - Erin, Hannah, and Grace - as they each share their unique views of what it was like to hug a tree trunk. Come take a walk with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

A visit to the beach reveals the creativity of human beings and their creator. And we just can't stop gawking at them all. In this episode, Wendy recounts looking down (literally) on a populated beach to see the beautiful and playful collection of mankind frolicking in the sand. Then Wendy is joined by her husband Randy and they discuss their fascination with the cornucopia of curious behaviors exhibited through the various expressions of homo sapiens. Come take a walk down the beach with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

There comes a day when you realize you have become your own version of Gladys Kravitz*...but you're kind of okay with it. In this episode, Wendy takes a walk through her neighborhood to introduce you to the wonderful people of Walmer Street. Then, Wendy sits down with her daughters as they discuss what it was like growing up and growing older in the neighborhood. Come take a walk down Walmer with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show *For those under 50, this is a reference to the nosy neighbor character in the 1960s sitcom, Bewitched.

In the long awaited third season, Wendy recounts the arrival of a new member of the family and the joys and challenges of extended families and new grandchildren. Then, Wendy sits down with Jami Johnson (the "other woman") to have a conversation about merging families, raising grandchildren, and the difficulties of sharing. Come take a walk with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

It's time to visit the in-laws – a grumpy angel and an earthy matriarch – and the effervescent family that reflects their love. Then join Wendy and her sister-in-law Rhonda as they discuss how perspectives reveal how stories get told (as well as who tells it!) Come take a walk in the park with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show

We may be too young a podcast for a "best of" week but when you're young you do foolish things – like messing up your production schedule and getting a little behind. So enjoy one of our favorites from last season. Come take a walk in the park with us On Carlson Drive. Official show website: OnCarlsonDrive.com Follow us: Facebook: @OnCarlsonDrive Instagram: @OnCarlsonDrive Email the show