Apple Cider Bellini

Apple Cider Bellini

A bonus episode of Happiest Hour calls for a bonus cocktail! My guest on this episode, Kaci Bolls, brought in her friend’ss recipe for a Apple Cider Bellini. Let me tell ya, if this doesn’t taste like fall, I don’t know what does.

Make yourself this delicious libation and then come enjoy your conversation! The link is below to listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube!

Bonus Episode: Dare to Be Me with Kaci Bolls

Bonus Episode: Dare to Be Me with Kaci Bolls

For decades, Kaci Bolls Scott has been a sought after Nashville session singer and songwriter. When life nudged her to do an about-face, get her Master's Degree in education and become a kindergarten teacher, Kaci found a way to combine her love of music and kindergarteners by releasing chart-topping hits of original children's music. Based on her song, "Dare to Be Me," Kaci has recently released a children's book by the same name.

We sat down to enjoy her delicious Apple Cider Bellini, and to chat about how she went from pro singer/songwriter to kindergarten teacher, chart-topping children’s music maker and author! Click to enjoy our conversation on your favorite podcast platform or on YouTube!

A Delicious Hummus Hack

A Delicious Hummus Hack

If you read about how I came up with the idea to launch my podcast, Happiest Hour, then you know I’ve been influenced by my favorite online influencer, Landyn Hutchinson (better known as Living with Landyn).

Last year sometime, Landyn shared a recipe for hummus she tried at a restaurant on the west coast. It just elevates the regular ol’ hummus dip from a package by mixing in some fresh herbs, cheese and a little kick (to taste).

I’ve adapted this idea into my own favorite hummus dip. I consider it a hack, since you use store bought hummus and just give it a little extra pizzaz. Give it a try, then whip up some frozen watermelon margaritas from Ep. 10 of the podcast (recipe below), and join my conversation with hit songwriter, Kirsti Manna!

Ep. 10: Staying Inspired with Hit Songwriter, Kirsti Manna

Ep. 10: Staying Inspired with Hit Songwriter, Kirsti Manna

I started my professional career in Nashville as a teenager. My first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry was at age 11. Because I started my professional path so early in life, I have had the amazing privilege of knowing some of my co-writers, collaborators, teachers and mentors for nearly 30 years. 

One of those mentors is Kirsti Manna, my guest on Ep. 10 (the grand finale of Happiest Hour Season 1). Kirsti is a hit songwriter, record label president and a fierce advocate for female creatives.

You’ve heard Kirsti’s hits like “Austin” for Blake Shelton and “Loud” for Big & Rich, to name a few.

We sat down to enjoy her delicious watermelon margarita recipe (more on that later), and to chat about the difference music and creativity makes in our lives. Click to enjoy our conversation on your favorite podcast platform or on YouTube!

Becky Knowles' Peanut Butter & Brown Sugar Sandwich (from Jay Knowles)

Becky Knowles' Peanut Butter & Brown Sugar Sandwich (from Jay Knowles)

My guest on Ep. 09 of Happiest Hour, Jay Knowles, said to me: “How ‘bout I make the peanut butter and brown sugar sandwiches the way I remember incorrectly that my mom used to make.” That’s Jay’s sense of humor for ya! Eye ball this nostalgic after-school snack and enjoy the sweet and sticky memories. Read on for Jay’s recipe!