really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Some people are celebrities. Some are legends. And then there's Dolly Parton. ❤️ This week on Really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we're celebrating the life, music, laughter, and extraordinary legacy of the one and only Dolly Parton. As two lifelong admirers from the mountains of Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee, Dolly has always felt like one of our own. From our unforgettable experience seeing her live in Knoxville in 2011 to the songs, movies, and memories that shaped our lives, we're sharing what made this Appalachian icon so special to us. We're reminiscing about classics like "Jolene," "9 to 5," and "I Will Always Love Y...

If you could experience something for the very first time all over again, what would it be? 🎬✨

This week on Really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we're taking a hilarious trip down memory lane! From unforgettable movies, favorite TV shows, books, and concerts to breathtaking travel experiences, we're reminiscing about the moments we'd love to relive.

But not every first deserves a second chance! 😂 We're talking awkward first experiences, nursing and veterinary medicine milestones, learning to drive, questionable 2000s fashion trends, and the absolute disaster of recording our first podcast.

Plus, Sierra confesses to a childhood...

What happens when a registered nurse and a registered veterinary technician compare notes about the things people do in the name of healthcare? Apparently, a whole lot of questionable decisions.

This week on Really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we're busting healthcare myths, sharing stories from human and veterinary medicine, and discussing everything from Q-tips and medication mishaps to flea prevention, essential oils, and the surprisingly common problem of people mistaking their dogs' nipples for ticks. Yes, really.

Along the way, we tackle medical misconceptions, patient and pet owner education, pain management, and why listening to your he...

What do college course numbers actually mean? Why don’t schools teach us how to do taxes? And most importantly—can a fish double as deodorant?

This week on Really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we’re bouncing from the things that have disappeared from our hometowns to the questionable usefulness of some college classes, the mysteries of registrars, zoology, weird animal facts, therapy, anatomy, and an unexpectedly long journey from Carpe deodorant to carp at Bass Pro Shop.

Plus, we share what’s coming up for us outside the podcast, including new educational YouTube projects, more adventures...

Sierra and Michael-Thomas are back—and apparently, the air is real close out there. In the Season 2 premiere of Really…, they recap a summer filled with Tybee Island food, boating on Lake Jocassee, body-confidence breakthroughs, favorite music and audiobooks, a Pink Floyd planetarium experience, an unexpected tick-borne illness, and a Fourth of July storm that sent an 80-foot tree crashing into the neighborhood. Plus, they preview a new season of road trips, local stories, special guests, and more time together—in person and occasionally on location. Welcome back to Really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas!

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thoma...

Really… is on location at the historic Russell Theatre in Lebanon, Virginia! Sierra and Michael-Thomas sit down with Theatre Director Shane Farmer to discuss the theatre’s remarkable restoration, Lebanon’s downtown revitalization, and the importance of creating spaces that bring a community together.

Shane shares how the Russell has evolved into a destination for affordable movies, live music, comedy, festivals, and family-friendly entertainment. He also discusses the theatre’s incredible sound system, upcoming plans for local teenagers, sponsorship opportunities, and his commitment to bringing outstanding performers to Southwest Virginia.

From classic movies and bluegrass concerts...

For our Season 1 Finale, Michael-Thomas and special guest Kaitlin Dodi-Monk discuss the book that has become their literary comfort food: Big Stone Gap by Adriana Trigiani.

From favorite characters and unforgettable quotes to dream casting choices and Appalachian representation, this episode celebrates the story, community, and author that have inspired countless rereads over the years. Join us as we share why Big Stone Gap still feels like home.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Episode Production & Camera Operation: Sierra Chapman

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

In this book-filled episode of really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we're joined by special guest Elizabeth Paxton for a lively conversation about the stories that shaped us. From childhood favorites like The Chronicles of Narnia and Harry Potter to modern fantasy, thrillers, historical fiction, audiobooks, and guilty-pleasure reads, we share our favorite books, comfort reads, unforgettable characters, and the novels we think everyone should experience at least once. Whether you're an avid reader, an audiobook enthusiast, or someone looking for your next great read, this episode is packed with recommendations, nostalgia, laughter, and plenty of literary hot takes.

...

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Episode Production & Camera Operation: Kaitlin Dodi-Monk

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: [email protected]

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sie...

Red flag, green flag, or beige flag?

This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas discuss the pettiest red flags imaginable—from people who only communicate through Snapchat to workplaces that insist "we're a family here." They also explore friendship green flags, authenticity, long-term relationships, and the small habits that make us question everything.

It's a funny, lighthearted conversation about the quirks, preferences, and behaviors we all secretly judge.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: Al...

Sierra and Michael-Thomas talk all things graduation — the excitement, the anxiety, the sweat-filled regalia, and the strange realization that nobody actually knows what they’re doing afterward. From mentorship and career advice to nostalgic high school memories and chaotic commencement ceremonies, this episode is equal parts heartfelt, hilarious, and painfully relatable.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: [email protected]

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

In...

This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas spotlight some of their favorite local businesses and restaurants across the Appalachian Highlands, including Bristol, Asheville, Johnson City, and Marion, Virginia. From beloved community staples to newer hidden gems, they explore the stories, food, and experiences that make small businesses so meaningful. The episode also touches on rebuilding after Hurricane Helene, why local economies matter, and the joy of discovering places with real personality and heart. Expect laughs, food cravings, and plenty of recommendations to add to your road trip list.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance...

Sierra and Michael celebrate the small businesses that make the Appalachian Highlands and Western North Carolina communities feel like home. From Saluda to Kingsport, Johnson City to Hendersonville, and beyond, they highlight favorite local spots, discuss the importance of supporting local economies, and share stories about the restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, theaters, and community spaces that leave a lasting impression. Expect cozy small-town vibes, food talk, nostalgia, and plenty of love for the Appalachian Highlands and Wester North Carolina.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman<...

Celebrate May the 4th with Sierra & Michael-Thomas as they dive deep into the galaxy far, far away. In this Star Wars–themed episode of really…, the conversation goes beyond lightsabers and space battles into the philosophy, character arcs, and cultural impact that make the franchise so iconic.

From breaking down the Force as a form of “space meditation” to exploring the rise and fall of Anakin Skywalker, the duo unpacks what makes these stories resonate across generations. They also discuss fan-favorite characters like Ahsoka Tano, the importance of The Clone Wars and The Mandalorian, and how the expanded...

In this episode of really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we dive headfirst into a mix of absurd, hilarious, and surprisingly deep philosophical conversations. From debating whether cereal is technically a soup to questioning why ghosts don’t fall through floors, nothing is off-limits.

Along the way, we explore the strange origins of language, the reality of inner dialogue, and the bigger questions about time, memory, and existence. We also pull a little wisdom from Star Wars, proving that even a galaxy far, far away has something to say about life here on Earth.

This episode blends humo...

Sierra and Michael-Thomas sit down for a relaxed best friend catch-up filled with humor, random thoughts, and relatable moments. From childhood beliefs and favorite smells to low-key days and hilarious hypotheticals, this episode is all about the joy of everyday conversation. It’s light, honest, and a little chaotic—in the best way.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: [email protected]

YouTube: https://bit.ly/real...

In this episode, Michael-Thomas and Sierra break down the concept of audacity—what it is, why it feels like it’s everywhere, and how it shows up in everyday life.

From “mild nerve” to full-blown “criminal audacity,” they introduce the Audacity Spectrum and share hilarious, relatable examples of people acting boldly, loudly, and sometimes completely incorrectly.

They also explore the role of social media, keyboard warriors, and the rise of confidence without expertise, while reflecting on boundaries, accountability, and the importance of self-awareness.

And yes… they also admit that sometimes, we might be part of the pr...

In this episode, Sierra shares snacks she brought back from Chile while Michael-Thomas gives his honest reactions in a live taste test. From dulce de leche to chocolate and banana gummies, they explore a range of flavors and textures while comparing them to familiar favorites.

The conversation also shifts to Sierra’s experience with Chilean cuisine—what she tried, what stood out, and how food played a role in her travel experience.

It’s a fun, lighthearted episode about food, culture, and the joy of trying something new.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas...

Sierra takes us inside her unforgettable backpacking trip through Torres del Paine National Park—sharing the highs, the challenges, and the moments that completely changed her perspective.

From intense hiking and unexpected travel mishaps to breathtaking sunrises and powerful life lessons, this episode explores what it really means to step outside your comfort zone.

If you’ve ever dreamed of an adventure like this—or just love a great story—this one’s for you. 🇨🇱🥾

Torres del Paine National Park - https://www.torresdelpaine.com

Guanaco - South American camelid - https://en.wikipedi...

Fear is weird. Phobias are weirder. And test anxiety? Way more common than you think.

In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas explore personal fears, phobias, and the science behind why our brains react the way they do. Through stories, humor, and a phobia trivia game, they unpack the difference between everyday fears and true phobias.

The conversation then turns to test anxiety—what causes it, how it shows up physically and emotionally, and strategies to manage it effectively. From breathing techniques to mindset shifts and learning strategies, this episode offers both insight and practical tools fo...

Why do people resist change so strongly?

In this episode of really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we unpack the phrase everyone has heard at some point: “That’s just the way we’ve always done it.” From food habits and nostalgia to education and leadership, we explore why challenging the status quo can feel uncomfortable — and why it’s often necessary for growth.

Along the way, we talk about how COVID forced adaptation in schools and workplaces, the role educators play in leading change, and why building trust with students matters more than ever. The conversation also dives int...

Before GPS was built into every phone and car, getting somewhere new required a very different set of skills. In this episode of really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we take a nostalgic trip back to the days of paper maps, road atlases, and printed MapQuest directions.

We talk about how weather can shape our routines, how people navigated before smartphones, and why traditional navigation skills still matter today. From reading map legends and understanding topography to knowing the difference between latitude and longitude, we explore the tools and knowledge that once helped people find their way.

Al...

What did you want to be when you grew up?

In this episode, Michael-Thomas and Sierra dive into childhood nostalgia, snow days, book recommendations, and the complicated pressure behind choosing a career path.

From marine biologist dreams and architect aspirations to the influence of media and the reality of changing majors, this conversation explores how our professional lives evolve — and why that’s completely normal.

We talk about vocational training, societal expectations, career pivots, and finding purpose in unexpected places.

If you’ve ever felt uncertain about your future, this episode is you...

“Calm down.”

Few phrases are more triggering — or more dismissive.

In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas explore why being told to calm down can feel invalidating and why it often makes situations worse. They discuss emotional triggers, tone policing, hormones, relationship dynamics, and the importance of empathy in communication.

Instead of dismissing emotions, what if we got curious about them?

This episode blends humor, vulnerability, and practical insight as they unpack how to respond to heightened emotions in healthier ways — and what to say instead.

🎥 Watch the full video episodes on...

We Really Need to Talk About Grocery Store Behaviors

Why can we explore space… but not return a shopping cart?

In this episode, we unpack the unspoken rules of the grocery store — from aisle blocking and abandoned perishables to the chaos of self-checkout and the moral test that is returning your cart.

Somehow we detour into space exploration, ocean fears, warehouse clubs, and the psychology behind why milk is always in the back.

We also talk about:

We’re back.

Season 1, Episode 18 of Really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas marks our return from a short holiday break — and yes, we’ve officially started filming.

This week, we’re diving into pet peeves — the everyday behaviors that somehow feel like personal attacks. From public etiquette fails to habits that honestly should be illegal, nothing is safe.

Same opinions. Slightly upgraded production.

🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Follow the show, leave a review, and tell us your biggest pet peeve — we might feature it in a future episo...

Because yens liked it so well… we thought we’d throwback to it while we’re busy building our YouTube!

We’re breaking down the unspoken rules of the gas station—pump hogs, snack choices, bathroom nightmares, and everything in between. Join Thomas and Sierra as they ask the real question: is there REALLY such a thing as “normal” gas station etiquette?

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Find us on Instagram: @really_thepod

Find us on Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Micha...

In this special episode of really…, Michael-Thomas is joined by the OG Bestie, Kaitlin, who steps in as guest host while Sierra is living her best yogi life. Together, they take a nostalgic walk down memory lane as lifelong “theatre kids,” reflecting on high school drama, community theatre days, and the formative experiences that shaped their friendship. From stage lights and show tunes to the bonds built backstage, this episode celebrates the magic, mayhem, and meaning of growing up in the theatre.

Plus, this marks a milestone moment for the pod — it’s our last audio-only episode as we prep...

Happy Holidays!!! It’s the finale of our Favorite Things series, and we’re ending on a high note — music. 🎶

In this episode, we’re talking about the songs, artists, and sounds that have shaped us, comforted us, hyped us up, and lived rent-free in our heads for years. From throwback favorites to current obsessions, we dig into why certain music sticks with us and how it becomes the soundtrack to different seasons of life. Expect nostalgia, strong opinions, and the kind of musical tangents you’d only have with friends who really love music.

Press play an...

In this installment of our Favorite Things series, we turn our attention to the TV shows that have shaped our humor, our nostalgia, and our comfort viewing. Sierra and Michael-Thomas dive into the series that defined different seasons of their lives, the shows they revisit again and again, and the ones they quote far too often. From iconic sitcoms to dramatic gems to the unexpected favorites that stuck with us, this episode is a celebration of the stories we watch on repeat. Settle in, press play, and see if your favorites make the list.

Produced by GrifChap...

Happy Holidays, from the Really Pod!

It’s movie night on Really…! In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas kick off their “Favorite Things” series by diving into the films they love most — comedies that still make them laugh, dramas that hit a little too hard, musicals that live rent-free in their heads, documentaries they swear you have to watch, and a few guilty pleasure picks they can’t deny. Grab your popcorn and settle in for a cinematic stroll through your hosts’ favorite flicks.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Grif...

🚗 This week on really… Sierra finally turns the spotlight on Michael-Thomas’ lifelong obsession: cars. From childhood dream machines to the vehicles that shaped his milestones, MT opens up about what driving, design, and horsepower mean to him.

Sierra takes the interviewer’s seat to dig into the stories behind his favorites, the cars he still wishes he owned, and why four wheels can hold so much personality. It’s nostalgic, funny, a little nerdy, and full of surprises.

Buckle up — this ride is all about passion, memories, and the things that keep MT’s engine humming.

...

We’re back with even more Thanksgiving chat, cozy vibes, and questionable family moments. In Part 2 of our “Very Thankful” series, Sierra and Michael-Thomas swap more hilarious holiday stories, reflect on the people and moments that shaped this year, and share what gratitude really looks like when life is… well… life-ing.

Grab a slice of cranberry sauce and come hang out with us for a warm, funny, very “really…” Thanksgiving special.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

M...

It’s turkey time, y’all! In this first episode of a two-part really... Thankful series, Sierra and Michael-Thomas look back on Thanksgivings past — the good, the bad, the awkward, and maybe even the ugly. From family traditions to food fails, we’re serving up stories and laughter that pair perfectly with a second helping of mashed potatoes.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook...

Is cursive REALLY dead… or just resting? This week we’re joined by Ms. Amber, a brilliant high school educator who lives at the front lines of pens, pixels, and teenage opinions. Expect honest stories, a few hot takes, and practical ideas for parents, teachers, and anyone who’s ever argued about “proper” handwriting. Spoiler: it’s complicated—and kind of fun.

A huge thank you to our very special guest, Amber Davis!

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Grif...

This week, Sierra’s out of town — but the coffee’s still hot and the conversation’s flowing! Michael-Thomas is joined by longtime friend and fellow community theatre actor Elizabeth, a true Gilmore Girls expert. Together, they dive into Stars Hollow nostalgia, favorite fast-talking moments, and what makes Lorelai and Rory’s world so timeless.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierr...

It’s Halloween week, and things are getting really… wicked. Sierra saw Wicked on stage for the very first time, and Michael-Thomas couldn’t resist turning it into a full-on interview. What happens when someone sees Wicked for the first time — and then has to talk about it with a theatre kid? Michael-Thomas asks all the important questions: Which witch won you over? Were there tears? Did you gasp at “No Good Deed”? It’s Halloween week at really…, and we’re flying high.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Edi...

The mixers are on, the tension’s high, and someone’s crème pâtissière just curdled. 😬In this week’s episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas tackle The Great British Baking Show — the world’s most gentle stress test. Expect fondant-level drama, piping-hot opinions, and maybe a few soggy metaphors.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https...

This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas tackle one of modern life’s great annoyances: waiting in line. From checkout queues that wind like a theme park ride to the people who forget how lines even work, we’re talking patience, personal space, and public chaos. Do we need more self-checkouts, fewer impulse aisles, or just better manners? Join us as we air our grievances—politely, of course.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Family vacations: the concept sounds relaxing until someone cries in a Cracker Barrel parking lot. In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas talk about the planning, the chaos, the bonding, and the breakdowns that come with “getting away together.” Are vacations with friends just easier? You bet your beach towel they are.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Find us on Instagram: @really_thepod

Find us on Facebook at R...