Hey everyone, it’s Vanessa, and I’m so excited to be back behind the mic for this episode of Tri State Time Machine! I know I’ve been away for a while, and in this episode, I get real about what’s been happening in my life. I open up about struggling with grief and depression after losing my mom and my cohost, W.G., and how that’s shaped my recent journey.

I also share some funny work stories—like the time a second grader surprised me with her “Ridin’ Dirty” impression—plus, what it’s really like coaching my daughter’s volleyball team (spoiler: it’s both terrifying and awesome). I get honest about the ups and downs of social media, the importance of friendships, and how meaningful it is to have my sister back home.

There’s so much happening in our Tri State community, too! I talk about exciting changes in Huntington, upcoming events like Ninth Street Live, and even tease a collaboration with the Watch for Deer podcast. I also let you in on my search for a new cohost—and why finding someone who just “clicks” isn’t as easy as it sounds.

So if you’ve missed the laughs, the honesty, and that Tri State nostalgia, tune in for this episode—this is the update you’ve been waiting for!

Watch For Deer Podcast

Chairman's Club Podcast

This episode is sponsored by Alex R. White, PLLC.

If you have a memory you would want me to talk more about, just send me an email at TSTM@mail.com. Or post a comment on the Tri-State Machine FB Group page.

Welcome to the Tri-State Time Machine.

I'm your host Vanessa Hankins. This is a podcast where my guests and I share our memories and present day stories of the Tri-State Area. That's West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio.

Nothing too serious, no political views, and no ulterior motives.

We're just here to share our fun stories about this great area.

Whether you're a past resident or a current Tri-State resident, I think you're going to have fun with us.

So join in, press play on your podcast player, and welcome to the Tri-State Time Machine!

Music from #Uppbeat - https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/new-life - License code: LWJEODYBFWYH73TR

https://ts-time-machine.captivate.fm/episode/catching-up-missing-w-g-and-life-updates

Copyright 2025 Vanessa Hankins

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

I am joined by Lauren Patrick, the Assistant Director of Greater Huntington Parks and Recreation.

We discuss the evolution of parks and recreation in the tri-state area, from community programs and facility management to beloved local events such as Easter egg hunts, holiday celebrations, and even adult game nights.

Lauren, who began her journey with the organization as an intern in college, shares her love for her hometown, the importance of community involvement in recreational activities, and how the parks system has grown over nearly a century.

Whether you're a current resident or someone reminiscing about your time in the area, this episode promises to spark fond memories and appreciation for the vibrant community spirit that makes the tri-state area unique.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Natural Resources Practicum Experience

04:41 Aquatic Facilities Operator Certified

08:22 Huntington's Community Commitment

11:00 Historic Cemeteries: Guyandotte & Pat's Branch

13:43 Softball League Memories and Community

18:29 Adults-Only Game Night

21:30 "Spot Patrick: Selfie Contest"

23:45 Healing Garden & Facility Rentals

27:46 "Parks and Rec Appreciation"

This episode is sponsored by Alex R. White, PLLC.

If you have a memory you would want me to talk more about, just send me an email at TSTM@mail.com. Or post a comment on the Tri-State Machine FB Group page.

Welcome to the Tri-State Time Machine.

I'm your host Vanessa Hankins. This is a podcast where my guests and I share our memories and present day stories of the Tri-State Area. That's West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio.

Nothing too serious, no political views, and no ulterior motives.

We're just here to share our fun stories about this great area.

Whether you're a past resident or a current Tri-State resident, I think you're going to have fun with us.

So join in, press play on your podcast player, and welcome to the Tri-State Time Machine!

Music from #Uppbeat - https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/new-life - License code: LWJEODYBFWYH73TR

https://ts-time-machine.captivate.fm/episode/greater-huntington-parks-and-recreation

Copyright 2025 Vanessa Hankins

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

I sit down with entrepreneur, musician, and actor Brock Thompson. Together, we explore Brock's diverse ventures, including his restaurants Starvin Arvin's and the Peach Cobbler Factory, and dive into his journey through music and acting.

Brock shares the challenges he faced with spasmodic dysphonia, a voice disorder, and how it has shaped his career. I hope you enjoy this heartfelt discussion about community, creativity, and the vibrant culture of Huntington!

Memorable Moments

(01:30) Brock's Background

(05:00) Starvin Arvin's and Peach Cobbler Factory

(12:00) Music Career and Spasmodic Dysphonia

(20:00) Acting Journey

(30:00) The Power of Community

This episode is sponsored by Alex R. White, PLLC.

If you have a memory you would want me to talk more about, just send me an email at TSTM@mail.com. Or post a comment on the Tri-State Machine FB Group page.

Welcome to the Tri-State Time Machine.

I'm your host Vanessa Hankins. This is a podcast where my guests and I share our memories and present day stories of the Tri-State Area. That's West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio.

Nothing too serious, no political views, and no ulterior motives.

We're just here to share our fun stories about this great area.

Whether you're a past resident or a current Tri-State resident, I think you're going to have fun with us.

So join in, press play on your podcast player, and welcome to the Tri-State Time Machine!

Music from #Uppbeat - https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/new-life - License code: LWJEODYBFWYH73TR

https://ts-time-machine.captivate.fm/episode/brock-thompson

Copyright 2025 Vanessa Hankins

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/