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: info.reallypod@gmail.com

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 Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

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: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

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 Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

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

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

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 Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.