When most visitors picture Gatlinburg in the fall, they envision vibrant autumn foliage, cozy mountain cabins, and crisp morning air. But tucked deep between the ancient ridges of the Great Smoky Mountains lies a darker, older history—tales of mysterious figures, haunted homesteads, and restless spirits that locals say never truly left.

In this special spooky episode of The Podcast is Calling, you'll uncover the chilling folklore hidden behind some of the Smokies’ most picturesque landmarks, forever transforming how you see these scenic trails, historic burial grounds, and backcountry lodges.

Join hosts Brant and Caroline around the virtual campfire as they trade eerie mountain legends and local ghost accounts. You'll uncover the mystery of Lucy, the vanishing barefoot hitchhiker along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail; explore the unsettling 3:33 a.m. encounters at the remote, high-altitude LeConte Lodge; and walk the weathered hillside of White Oak Flats Cemetery, where whispers of shadowy figures and the legendary "Gatlinburg Witch" still linger.

Plus, hear a heartwarming 30th-anniversary memory from our listener Story Capsule and learn how you can enter to win our monthly Gatlinburg Attractions Pass for up to six people!

Dim the lights, turn up the volume, and hit play now to explore the haunted side of Gatlinburg—if you dare!

Did you know the most visited distillery in the world sits right in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee?

In this episode, you’ll discover the rich history, family legacy, and surprising myths behind legalized moonshine straight from an insider.

Hosts Caroline and Brent sit down with Johnny Baker (known affectionately as "Uncle Johnny"), brand ambassador for Ole Smoky Moonshine. Johnny takes us through his family's deep-rooted roots in Sevier County, the transition from illegal distilling in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to opening Tennessee's first legal moonshine business, and how local heritage built a global brand. Plus, the crew tries Ole Smoky's new Cherry Limeade Cherries live on air and shares heart-warming listener memories from the Gatlinburg Story Capsule.

Struggling to plan a Gatlinburg trip that keeps every generation entertained without blowing the budget or stressing out? Discover how to turn a crowded itinerary into a seamless, unforgettable mountain getaway for the entire family.

In this episode, hosts Brent and Caroline sit down with Dustin Ivey—Senior General Manager of Ripley’s Tennessee—and his four-year-old daughter, Waylon. Dustin breaks down why Gatlinburg is a premier family-friendly destination, shares local tips for balancing big-ticket attractions with relaxing downtime, and reveals how kid feedback directly shapes the region’s newest entertainment experiences. Plus, enjoy a fun trivia segment where little Wayland shares her absolute favorite Gatlinburg spots.

Listen now to unlock local secrets, clever family travel strategies, and everything you need to plan your ultimate Smoky Mountain vacation!