Show Summary

Catalina Sandoval joins The Colonel & the Kid Podcast with host Greg Heitmann for her recurring segment...."Trippin' With Cat," a vacation review.

The Ultimate Travel & Experience Podcast: Disney, Universal & Road Trips

Dive into a behind-the-scenes look at a family trip to Disney World and Universal Studios, featuring personal stories, funny mishaps, and detailed park reviews. This episode also shares insights into travel logistics, favorite rides, food adventures, and travel tips.

In this episode:

• Catalina recounts her trip to Orlando, including travel prep, airport experiences, and overcoming a green chili mishap.
• Detailed breakdown of Disney's Animal Kingdom, Avatar, and Harry Potter attractions, with honest reviews and ride ratings.
• Exploring Universal Studios, including Marvel, Harry Potter, and classic rides like The Mummy & Simpsons Land.
• Food highlights including themed restaurants like Flame Tree Barbecue, Voodoo Doughnuts, and Toothsums Chocolate Emporium.
• Travel logistics: parking tips, ride wait times, and using fast passes effectively.
• Humorous anecdotes about trip mishaps, such as lost keys, hot tub issues, and hilarious late-night podcast recording struggles.
• Bonus: The importance of capturing memories through photos and the value of simple traditions like airport breakfast burritos.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome, intro to Catalina and the trip purpose02:04 - Trip background & travel prep chaos04:56 - Airport drop-offs and delayed start07:06 - Family introduced, podcast restart due to audio issues09:27 - Flying from Santa Fe to Orlando, layover details12:52 - Arrival in Orlando, Airbnb exploration17:01 - Day 1 at Animal Kingdom, rides and attractions overview20:36 - Exploring Everest, Africa safari, and themed zones30:14 - Food stops and restaurant reviews33:33 - Park ticket prices and food costs summary36:25 - Universal Studios day, Harry Potter, Marvel, and Simpsons Land45:44 - Dining and special merchandise, ride ratings56:33 - Day 4: Hagrid’s ride, Velocicoaster, and more attractions66:39 - Final dinner at Toothsums, Lenten food reflections, and trip wrap-up73:08 - Podcast wrap-up, future plans, merch ideas, and closing thoughts

Resources & Links:

• Disney World Official Website
• Universal Studios Official Site
• Voodoo Doughnuts
• Toothsums Chocolate Emporium

Milestone Episode: Completing Season 2 of "The Colonel and the Kid" & Chapter 40 - The Mail Route

Join host Greg Heitmann as he celebrates the culmination of Season 2 and Volume 2 of the memoir dedicated to Lieutenant Colonel Edwin P. Hagen Jr. In this episode, Greg reflects on his grandfather’s career as a rural mail carrier, shares family artifacts, and explores broader themes of history, effort, and personal legacy.

Main Insights:

• Overview of Grandpa Hagen’s career with the US Postal Service and his mail route in South Dakota
• The significance of the unofficial postal motto: "Neither snow nor rain nor gloom of night..."
• Personal stories about Grandpa's vehicle, homemade devices, and daily routines
• Use of AI tools to enhance family artwork depicting old cars and farm life
• Reflections on community, education, and the importance of preserving family history
• Commentary on contemporary topics: NFL draft, baseball, societal craziness, and cultural reflections
• Philosophical thoughts on life accomplishments, anonymity, and societal progress
• The importance of asserting positivity and control in life
• Brief preview of upcoming projects, including the next book in the Charlie LeBeau Mystery Series
• Season finale with a heartfelt thank you and encouragement to "see you later"

Timestamps:

• (11:15) Grandpa’s career and personal stories
• (28:57) Inventiveness of Grandpa and DIY modifications
• (34:00) Family photos and community snapshots
• (37:01) Concluding thoughts, quotes, and future plans
• (44:00) Society, education, and cultural observations
• (50:37) The NFL draft and American dreams
• (55:55) The desire for anonymity and legacy
• (60:40) Upcoming book project: "Lake Traverse" and family art
• (68:25) Final reflections and season closure

Resources & Links:

• Charlie LeBeau Mystery Series — next project in progress
• O'Farrell Hat Company — unofficial sponsor and hat collector

Connect with Greg:

• YouTube Channel
• Twitter
• Email & Contact

Optional:

• Stay tuned for merchandise updates: custom T-shirts designed with family artwork
• Future episodes may include select chapters from the upcoming "Lake Traverse" series

Season Finale Note:

This episode celebrates the end of Season 2 and Volume 2—thank you for your support. Greg encourages listeners to "Be assertive, positive, and proactive" and to enjoy life’s journey with gratitude and curiosity.See you later, and keep exploring your own Mail Routes!

The Colonel and the Kid Podcast - Chapter 39: Daughters, Part 2 & COVID Reflection

Explore the heartfelt memoir chronicling family history intertwined with reflections on COVID-19's impact. Learn about the author's family stories, personal insights, and lessons learned through memories and photographs.

Key Topics:

• Family history through vintage photos and stories from the 1950s to 1980s
• The personal impact of COVID-19 on family members, especially the author's mother and aunt
• Reflections on perseverance and lessons from Grandpa Edwin P. Hagen Jr.
• Insights into American family life, holidays, and relationships across generations
• Updates on sports, local news, and the author's current projects, including his writing journey

Timestamps:

• (00:00) Welcome and podcast overview
• (01:17) Introducing the memoir of Grandpa Edwin P. Hagen Jr.
• (02:28) The importance of recording family history
• (07:20) Family's COVID-19 experiences; mother and aunt's battles
• (08:04) Vintage photos of family in the 1950s
• (11:00) Kathy’s COVID recovery story
• (15:31) Family vacation in 1952; imagined family bonds
• (20:32) Family reunion in 2021 post-COVID
• (22:04) Photos of family in the 1970s and 1980s
• (37:46) Reflections on family members’ resilience
• (39:18) Challenges of preservation and family memories
• (44:12) Concluding thoughts on life lessons and perseverance
• (50:52) Personal connection to O’Farrell Hat Company
• (55:22) Dressing for success and aspirations
• (58:34) Upcoming segments: license plates and local stories
• (70:43) Progress on the author's writing projects
• (73:29) Challenges of staying disciplined in writing
• (76:52) Strategies for overcoming distractions and maintaining focus
• (78:36) Final thoughts and encouragement for listeners

Resources & Links:

• Lieutenant Colonel Edwin P. Hagen Jr. Memoir Sample (Note: Placeholder for actual link)
• O'Farrell Hat Company
• Giants in the Earth Book on Amazon
• Lake Traverse Charler de Beau Mystery Series (Placeholder for series info)

Connect with Greg Heitmann:

• Twitter
• LinkedIn

Memoir and Culture: The Christmas Times and Miscellaneous Musings - Colonel and Kid Podcast

Join Greg Heitmann as he candidly reflects on childhood Christmas memories, family traditions, and personal anecdotes, blending nostalgia with humor. This episode explores childhood holiday experiences, cultural insights, and amusing tangents on current events and media.

Main Topics:

• Chapter 38 from the memoir: Childhood Christmas memories with vivid descriptions of decorations, gifts, and family time
• Personal reflections on holiday traditions, childhood excitement, and nostalgic photos
• Cultural commentary, sports updates, and the quirky segment "Disgust the Disgust" about modern streaming frustrations
• Unique insights into vintage toys, family history, and the evolution of Christmas celebrations

In this episode:

• Greg shares detailed anecdotes about Christmas at his grandparents' house in South Dakota, including the famous blue lights and family visits
• He discusses childhood favorite toys like Stretch Armstrong, Johnny West, and vintage football memorabilia
• The story of his family's Christmas Eve car theft and subsequent wreck—highlighting both humor and nostalgia
• Cultural updates include NCAA basketball, the Masters golf tournament, and the Minnesota Twins' season
• Greg introduces his new rap moniker "PHrazee" and plans for upcoming merchandise and music
• The episode concludes with a heartfelt quote from Laura Ingalls Wilder emphasizing holiday spirit and childhood memories

Resources & Links:

• Andy Williams - It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
• Temple of the Dog - Hunger Strike
• Laura Ingalls Wilder quote
• eBay vintage toys — search for vintage Christmas toys and memorabilia

Connect with Greg Heitman:

• Twitter
• Email

Optional:

• Photos of Christmas in South Dakota, vintage toys, and family moments are included within the episode notes for visual context.

In this episode, Greg Heitmann reflects deeply on family connections, personal growth, and the intriguing mysteries of UFOs and scientific curiosity. Join us as he shares stories from his memoir, personal insights, and musings on cultural phenomena, all interwoven with a casual yet profound narrative. Main Topics:

• Greg’s reflections on his grandfather, father, and family history, illustrated with heartfelt stories and photographs.
• Personal challenges in discipline and creativity, and the journey of memoir writing and recording legacy.
• Fascinating discussions on UFO lore, Bob Lazar's Area 51 revelations, and the boundaries of scientific and cultural curiosity.
• Cultural observations on sports, gender, and the psychology behind group dynamics and societal taboos.
• Delightful updates on hummingbirds returning, photography treasures, and random finds from daily walks.
• Light-hearted musings on music, including the "Fly List" with songs like “Learning to Fly” and “Fly Me to the Moon.”
• Ongoing projects: editing the Charlie LeBeau mystery book series and upcoming plans for podcast volumes.

Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro and theme of the episode: family, curiosity, and personal memoirs 01:02 - Greg's memoir background and family tribute to Grandpa, Edwin P. Hagen Jr. 02:31 - Reflection on discipline, psychology, and the importance of recording personal history 03:55 - Challenges with focus and the concept of a "permanent record" and childhood lessons 10:21 - Opening quotes about shaping greatness through family influence 11:05 - Personal story of losing his father and processing grief 12:30 - Family photos and memories from hunting trips and weddings in South Dakota 14:55 - Descriptions of family photos, hunting seasons, and sentimental moments 16:35 - Grandpa’s influence on golf, photos from golf outings, and family bonding 18:32 - Narratives about wedding elopements and family anecdotes 60:08 - Hummingbird return signals spring; setup of feeders and joy of birdwatching

Resources & Links:

• Bob Lazar and Area 51 - Joe Rogan Experience (2019)
• S4: The Bob Lazar Story - Amazon (Possibly available for rental/purchase)
• Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon”
• Pink Floyd’s “Learning to Fly”
• Foo Fighters’ “Learn to Fly”
• The Fly List - Spotify playlist

Connect with Greg:

Enjoy this blend of family storytelling, curiosity, and cultural insights, all delivered in Greg’s engaging style. Stay curious and keep exploring the mysteries and wonders around you!

The Daughters, Part 1 - A Reflection on Family, Memories, and Art

In this episode, Gregory Heitmann explores the significance of family history, personal reflections, and the power of photographs. He shares heartfelt stories about his grandfather, recent family photos, and muses on life, art, and the universe.

Key Topics:

• Introduction to the chapter on "The Daughters" and its significance in the memoir
• Personal reflections on writing, therapy, and organizing thoughts through podcasts
• The importance and permanence of sharing family memories via audio and video
• Descriptions and stories behind a series of family photos from the 1950s to the 1980s
• Insights into family relationships, geographic connections, and family traditions
• Commentary on fashion styles across decades, especially in the 1970s
• The contrast between sports observations and philosophical musings on life, the moon, and reality
• Introduction of a new segment: "Art or Not" — exploring graffiti as art
• Reflections on graffiti, its artistic elements, and questions about authenticity and expression
• Discussion on language, spelling, and cultural influences, illustrated through graffiti examples
• Philosophical questions about life, existence, and whether reality is a simulation
• Final thoughts: blessings for Easter, spring, and encouragement to seek, ask, and explore

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Returning to the podcast and introducing the chapter "The Daughters, Part 1"
• 01:13 - Honors grandfather, building the memoir project
• 02:08 - Reflecting on the meaning of sharing memories and the internet's permanence
• 03:01 - The significance of the Easter holiday and its cultural meaning
• 05:01 - The therapeutic value of writing
• 55:10 - Introduction of the new segment "Art or Not" and graffiti as a form of expression
• 58:34 - The artistic quality of graffiti and its cultural implications
• 61:09 - Discussions on language, spelling, and cultural influences on graffiti
• 66:15 - Philosophical musings
• 67:43 - Closing blessings for Easter, spring, and encouragement for inquiry and exploration

Resources & Links:

• Teener Baseball by Gregory L. Heitman
• UConn Huskies Men's Basketball
• Black Hills Tour
• Graffiti Art Projects

Connect with Greg Heitmann:

• Twitter
• Website

Happy Easter, blessings of spring, and may you find art in the world around you!

Title: The Good-Hearted Woman & Baseball Memories: A Personal Reflection

Discover a heartfelt reflection on family, baseball, and nostalgia with Greg Heitmann, as he tells stories about his grandparents, shares insights on baseball, and updates on NCAA basketball and country music.

In this episode:

• Greg introduces his personal connection to his grandparents through family photos and stories
• Exploration of his grandfather's personality, teasing, and their relationship
• Reflection on wedding photos and the timeless appearance of Grandma Betty Jean Hagen
• Insights into the song "Good Hearted Woman" and its significance in Greg’s family history
• Greg’s memories of traveling with his grandparents and their joyful life together
• Personal thoughts on baseball, from childhood tee-ball to his adult life watching the Twins and minor league teams
• Updates on NCAA basketball, including Duke’s thrilling game and the impact of NIL on college sports
• Country music discussion: David Ball’s hits like "Thinking Problem" and "Riding with Private Malone"
• Critical view of Major League Baseball’s current state, officiating, and league politics
• Personal musings on aging and sports.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and podcast overview

02:00 - Greg's memoir background and family stories

07:15 - Reflection on wedding photos and young images of Grandpa and Grandma

13:00 - Significance of the song "Good Hearted Woman" and family relationships

14:36 - Photos of family life, traveling, and marriage

54:09 - Country music insights, David Ball’s hits, and his iconic style

66:23 - College basketball stories, coaching changes, and tournament updates

75:10 - Personal music favorites and the quirky coincidence with Soft Cell's "Tainted Love"

78:15 - Closing remarks: enjoying spring, sports, and family legacy

Resources & Links:

• Good Hearted Woman - Willie Nelson & Waylon Jennings
• David Ball: Thinking Problem - Album
• Teen or Baseball Book (Author's Website)
• College Basketball & NCAA NIL info
• Soft Cell - Tainted Love (1981)

Connect with Greg Heitmann:

• Twitter
• LinkedIn

Enjoy stories of family, nostalgia, sports, and music in this episode of The Colonel and the Kid!

Chapter 34: Bedtime Stories - Reflections on Family, Memories, and Life Lessons

In this episode, Host, Greg Heitmann, shares heartfelt memories of his grandfather, storytelling rituals, and personal reflections on life, humor, and mental health. Whether you're interested in family stories, self-improvement tips, or a good laugh, this episode offers a mix of all. Casual, reflective, and humorous style with educational undertones...

Main Topics:

• Personal memories of Greg's grandfather, Lieutenant Colonel Edwin P. Hagen Jr.
• The importance and impact of bedtime stories on kids’ development
• Humor and anecdotes from military life and childhood
• Reflections on mental health, self-care, and overcoming embarrassment
• Music lists and cultural observations about songs related to mental health
• Life lessons about leaving things better and embracing risks

Key Insights:

• Greg’s grandfather's stories focused on daily military life, not violence but routine grind and camaraderie
• Bedtime stories serve as a valuable tool for bonding and teaching life lessons
• Personal anecdotes reveal the humorous side of military deployment and childhood imagination
• The episode emphasizes the significance of telling stories to children and fostering emotional intelligence
• Greg advocates for overcoming embarrassment as a life skill, inspired by Scott Adams’ philosophy
• The “Mental Health” music list highlights themes of craziness and resilience in popular songs
• Reflection on societal issues like government decisions during COVID, mental health stigma, and cultural influences
• Practical advice: leave things better and live proactively, not passively

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Chapter 34: Bedtime Stories00:34 - Dedication to Greg’s grandfather and the memoir’s purpose08:17 - Military camp experiences, photos, and personal souvenirs09:46 - Transition back to the chapter: the impact of grandpa's stories on the speaker10:14 - The chapter begins with a quote from Hamlet about sleep and dreams10:32 - Reflection on the quote’s relevance to bedtime stories and family life11:31 - Insights into Hamlet’s deeper meaning about life and responsibility13:16 - Memories of Grandpa putting grandkids to bed and storytelling imagery

Resources & Links:

• Lieutenant Colonel Edwin P. Hagen Jr. - Find more about his military service
• O'Farrell Hat Company - Custom Hats in Santa Fe, NM
• TheGMann.com - Author's Website
• Book: Agency Village, A Charlie LeBeau Mystery
• YouTube - Video Podcast Channel

Connect with Greg on social media or leave a comment to share your thoughts!