Episode 165B: Alabama Roots, Kilted Hoots & Barefoot Truths
B-Side
In this episode of The Strange South B-Side, Patrice, Marleah, and Courtney dive into everything from discovering our ancestral roots to barefoot adventures at the local Piggly Wiggly! This time, we’re back with a B-Side, filled with all the randomness you’d expect from a chill Southern gathering.
Rediscovering Ancestry – Surprise, Y'all are from Alabama!
Ever take a DNA test expecting some exotic revelation, only to find out your roots go deep in Alabama? We did, and let me tell you, it threw us for a loop. Expecting Kentucky or North Carolina, finding out our lineage is rooted in sweet home Alabama was a shocker. Turns out, the South has a way of sneaking into your DNA no matter where you think your roots lie.
A Trip to the Highland Games – Kilts, Rocks, and Serious Sass
One of us recently took a little trip to the Highland Games in Greenville, South Carolina, where kilt-clad athletes toss rocks and poles for sport, and clans parade their tartans with pride. Think it’s all pomp and bagpipes? Nope. It's a surprisingly wild time, complete with shots at the McDonald tent, a parade of clans, and rock tossing that’d make Thor blush. For a volunteer gig, this wasn’t too shabby – free lunch, T-shirt, and enough Scottish vibes to last until the next festival.
Alabama vs. Mississippi: A Cousin Rivalry
Of course, we couldn’t avoid a bit of friendly state rivalry – because what’s a Southern podcast without a little ribbing between Alabama and Mississippi? We’ve all judged a state (or three) based on the stereotypes. But when it comes down to it, we’re all in it together, rocking our grocery store feet and making memories that somehow always end up barefoot at a Piggly Wiggly or Foodland.
Want Some Strange South Merch? We’ve Got You!
Shameless plug time! If you love our B-side vibes, check out the The Strange South shop for some custom merch, designed by none other than Patrice. From B-side cassette stickers to “grocery store feet” T-shirts, we’ve got your quirky Southern needs covered. And if you've got a (good) idea for new merch, hit us up. Bad ideas? Well, keep those to yourself.
Wrapping It Up – Travel Stories and RV Adventures
Between RV rentals, road trips through the Blue Ridge Mountains, and kids taking selfies in front of burning pool tables (yes, that happened), there’s never a dull moment here. If you’re planning to explore Greenville or revisit Jamestown, just remember: pay attention to those road signs, and always be ready to discover something surprising about your roots. Until next time, keep it strange and Southern, y'all!
we want the b-side to be a place for you, fellow seekers of the strange! have a story to share? a tidbit you heard around a campfire? send us a message at stories@thestrangesouth.com
The TSS Crew is live from Romarin et Corbeaux in Anniston, AL for our annual Halloween show!