MattCast

Darryl Wootton Interview

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Matt interviews Darryl Wootton about his book, “Shh! Leading with Quiet in a World of Loud.” He speaks about the necessity of shutting off the loudest voices in our lives, as well as Darryl’s writing process and challenges in putting the book together. Buy his book here:

(https://www.amazon.com/Shh-Leading-Quiet-World-Loud/dp/196906238X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2RL2U9S2KM2UJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WNmJrQkhF5ZmUUP-W8FAqGXN7jeIR4KjklyKRfGK28PGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.T1AlUVpYA6yrEkPqJPsFs45EnyBp-fyX_zSjDv_3d1E&dib_tag=se&keywords=darryl+wootton&qid=1780425876&sprefix=,aps,139&sr=8-1)

9/11 - Thousands of Heroes - Millions of Stories

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 09:10:00 -0400

In light of the 25th anniversary of one of America's darkest days, we re-air our retrospective of 9/11, an audio retelling of events from that morning using actual audio from the day. Warning: this episode's content is intense in nature. Listener discretion is advised.

This episode originally aired September 6, 2021.

RUSHMORE, Part 13 - My Rushmore Journey

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Description:

This bonus episode of “Rushmore” details Matt’s personal journey with Mt. Rushmore and putting this podcast series together.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Frum Clown,” written by Sam Barsh and performed by Tony Sopiano

RUSHMORE, Part 12 - Unfinished Symphony

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore concludes by detailing the sudden end of construction of the memorial, the death of Gutzon Borglum, and the lasting legacy of the monument.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

“The Mystery of Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony,” Philip Huscher, (https://cso.org/experience/article/7349/the-mystery-of-schuberts-unfinished-symphony)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Other Clips:

“Schubert: Symphony No. 8 Unfinished | Iván Fischer & Budapest Festival Orchestra”

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tisvEpblig)

“Reagan Remastered - Freedom is Never More than One Generation Away from Extinction - Ronald Reagan” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=844nfEYhepU)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Rhinestone,” written by Dean Palya and performed by PALA

“Half Empty,” “Keeper Of Keys,” “Dewflower,” and “Affectionately Yours,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

“Cup Of Tea,” written by Brendan St. Gelais and performed by Reveille

“The Sound Above Us,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Cast of Characters

“Layers,” written and performed by Caleb Etheridge

RUSHMORE, Part 11 - King of the Mountain

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues with Gutzon Borglum’s personal battles with John Boland, a man he saw as his nemesis.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

“American Experience - John Boland,” (https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/rushmore-boland/).

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Inlet,” written and performed by Sam Barsh

“Happy Place,” written by Molly Cherryholmes and performed by Material Gurl

“Funk Flingin’” and “Steely-Eyed,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Cast of Characters

“Thoughts Are Free,” written by Matthew Wigton and and performed by Matt Wigton

“Minuet Of The Celestial Court,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Moments

“Corners,” written by Matthew Wigton and performed by Shimmer

RUSHMORE, Part 10 - Lincoln...Both of Them

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues with an exploration of one of its unsung heroes, Gutzon Borglum’s son Lincoln, as well as the development of the Mt Rushmore baseball team.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

“American Experience: Lincoln Borglum” (https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/rushmore-lincoln-borglum/)

Rapid City Journal (various articles)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Cats And Dogs Living Together,” written by Matthew Wigton and performed by Dresden, The Flamingo.

“Sanctuary,” written by Brendan St. Gelais and performed by Reveille.

“County Nights” and “Cedar Sun,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Rest & Settle.

“Swampy Lands,” written by Medhat Hanbali and performed by Adam Saban.

“The Cat’s Pajamas,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Liberty.

“Scott’s Planes,” written and performed by Sam Barsh.

“Something Beautiful,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Alsever Lake

RUSHMORE, Part 9 - Two Heads are Better than One

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues with the challenges of the Great Depression and the peril of finding usable rock to carve the head of Thomas Jefferson.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Other Clips:

“Happy Days are Here Again! (Ben Selvin and the Crooners, 1930)” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqsT4xnKZPg)

“Gutzon Borglum speaks of Mt Rushmore” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnimFdxTItA)

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore | SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc&t=7s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Locomotive Rag” and “Sweet Little Jean Marie,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Cast Of Characters

“Gatsby’s Saloon,” written by Matthew Wigton and performed by Dresden, The Flamingo

“Charlotte & Pemberley,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

“Winter Train Home,” written by Molly Cherryholmes and performed by Fatherland

“Feather,” written by Landon Bailey and performed by echowave

“Evergreen Path,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Rest & Settle

“This is Forever,” written by Landon Bailey and performed by LNDO

“Stay Up High,” written by Spencer Hattendorf and performed by Thruline

“Dream Tides,” written by Brendan St. Gelais and performed by Reveille

RUSHMORE, Part 8 - Audacity

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues by exploring Gutzon Borglum’s grand plans for Mt. Rushmore beyond the four figures of the Presidents.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

Winchester Mystery House (https://winchestermysteryhouse.com/sarahs-story/)

“Gutzon Borglum’s Concept of the Hall of Records,” by Enid Thompson, c. June 1956. (http://npshistory.com/publications/moru/shs-hall-of-records.pdf)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Goosebumps,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin.

“Vapor” and “Distance,” written by Landon Bailey and performed by echowave.

“Corner Trio,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Renderings.

“Pour It Slow,” written by Andrew Shaw and performed by Andy Shaw.

“Quiet Epiphany,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Lost Ghosts

RUSHMORE, Part 7 - The Keystone Boys

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues by focusing on the men who are the true heroes of Mt Rushmore - the rough-and-tumble local inexperienced workers who learned their craft and made history.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Boo!” written by Matthew Wigton and performed Dresden, The Flamingo.

“The Morning News,” written by Matthew Wigton and performed by Shimmer.

“Pour It Slow,” written by Andrew Shaw and performed by Andy Shaw.

“Our Web Of Lies,” written Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Moments.

“Dork The Halls,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Cast of Characters.

“Innovation,” written by Joshua Carter and performed by JCar.

“Soledad,” written by Dario Benedetti and performed by Dario Benedetti.

“This Is Forever,” written by Landon Bailey and performed by LNDO

RUSHMORE, Part 6 - Price of Immortality

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues by highlighting the practical challenges of building the world’s largest sculpture on the side of the mountain, along with the financial challenges faced in the opening months of construction.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Elevator Music,” written by Matthew Wigton and performed by Dresden, The Flamingo

“I’ve Got A Whole Lotta Swing,” written by Spencer Hattendorf and performed by Thruline

“Summersteen,” written by Sam Barsh and performed by Tony Sopiano

“Spoken Word” and “Low Key,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Renderings

“Entice,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Cast of Characters

“New Jazz Waltz,” written by Jonathan Birkholz and performed by Jazz Lunch

“Pura Vida,” written by Matthew Wigton and performed by The Night Train

RUSHMORE, Part 5 - Silent Cal

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues with the story of Calvin Coolidge, one of America’s most underestimated Presidents and his key role in putting the wheels of construction into motion.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation (https://coolidgefoundation.org)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Other Clips:

“Calvin Coolidge - Speech on Taxation and Government” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwZnExRb8zU&t=107s)

“Calvin Coolidge Audio Recording” (https://www.c-span.org/video/?96805-47/calvin-coolidge-audio-recording)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Caffeinated Marimba” and “Night Music,” written by Joshua Carter and performed by JCar

“Curiosity,” written by Brendan St. Gelais and performed by Reveille

“Magic,” written by Landon Bailey and performed by LNDO

“Aim for Grace” and “As I Lay Me Down To Sleep,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

“Unexpected Turn,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Moments

“The Duke of New York,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Liberty

“Gatsby’s Saloon,” written by Matthew Wigton and performed by Dresden, The Flamingo

“Time And Beyond Time,” written and performed by Markus Huber

RUSHMORE, Part 4 - A Tough Gospel to Spread

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues by examining the early challenges of the project, including location, opposition, and financing.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

RUSHMORE, Part 3 - Gutzon

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues with a look at the story’s main protagonist, visionary, and sculptor: Gutzon Borglum.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Other Music:

“Let the Games Begin” and “The Diary,” written by Molly Cherryholmes and performed by CJ-O

“Beat the System,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

“A Quiet Place,” written by Andrew Dean Piland and performed by Gold Coast

“The State of Things,” written by Medhat Hanbali and performed by Adam Saban

“Oceanlab,” written by Molly Cherryholmes and performed by Featherland

“Quiet Courage,” written by Landon Bailey and performed by LNDO

“Don’t Lose Hope,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Moments

RUSHMORE, Part 2 - Three Wise Men

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore continues with the story of three men in South Dakota who had the foresight and determination to make it come into being: Doane Robinson, Peter Norbeck, and William Williamson.

Source Material:

“The Carving of Mount Rushmore,” by Rex Alan Smith, Abbeville Press: Reissue Edition, c. 1994. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558596658/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1)

“The Peter Norbeck Papers at the University of South Dakota,” archived by John N. Olsgaard (https://www.sdhspress.com/journal/south-dakota-history-10-2/dakota-resources-the-peter-norbeck-papers-at-the-university-of-south-dakota/vol-10-no-2-dakota-resources.pdf)

Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Episode Music:

“Rolling Waves” and “Respire,” written by Landon Bailey and performed by echowave

“Adventurous Spirit” and “Free Flow,” written by Brendan St. Gelais and performed by Reveille

“Endless Water” and “Tree in the Abbey,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Rest & Settle

“Punch Up,” written by Bryan Dawley and performed by Fleece Mob

“Sunshine Memories,” written by Philip Barnes and performed by Brent Wood

“Gaze,” written by Matthew Wigton and performed by Falls

RUSHMORE, Part 1 - Under God the People Rule

Mon, 25 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The story of Mt. Rushmore begins with the story of the state in which it is found: South Dakota.

Audio Clips Used (Theme):

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)

“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)

“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)

“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)

“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)

“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)

Theme Music:

“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.

Episode Music (License available upon request):

“Every Life Matters,” written and performed by Cody Martin.

“Darkest Space,” written by Dustin Ransom; performed by Lost Ghosts.

“A Kind Word,” “Echoes of Solitude,” and “Stroll the Westbury,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther; performed by Moments.

“High Above” and “Wilderness,” written by Stephen Keech; performed by Wild Wonder.

“LightHeart,” written by Joshua Sudduth; performed by TAYME

Time Away, Part 5 - Hiatus

Mon, 11 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Matt uses the story of musician Bill Withers to talk about why artists walk away from their craft for a prolonged amount of time, along with when, if ever, we come back to it again.

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Innovation Age,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

Bumper Music:

“Daisy,” written by Dean Palya and performed by PALA

Time Away, Part 4 - Sabbatical

Mon, 04 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Unlike vacations, sabbaticals can be an extended opportunity for us to either simply rest or gain inspiration for our creative efforts. The episode explores ideas and recommendations if you might be interested.

Source Material:

“The Great Creative Sabbatical: Why Artists Must Wander (And How You Can Be Part of the Journey)” (https://goghjewelrydesign.com/blogs/blog/the-great-creative-sabbatical-why-artists-must-wander-and-how-you-can-be-part-of-the-journey?srsltid=AfmBOop-FcdVtmvEj36u04e7tHE_RsRqD4FlN8KU0x-Xs1UZ0Ep7fnSV)

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Innovation Age,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

Bumper Music:

“Party Break,” written by Aaron Sprinkle and performed by Neon Beach

Time Away, Part 3 - Vacation

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Source Material:

“Taking a holiday when you’re an artist and/or a freelancer,” by Pauline Le Pichon (https://pauline-lepichon.medium.com/taking-vacation-when-youre-an-artist-and-or-a-freelancer-22bc9e8d35d8)

Description:

Artists need to detach from time to time, and a vacation is the best way of doing it. But, are artists allowed when so many see them as not working a “real job”?

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Innovation Age,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

Bumper Music:

“Lizard Man,” written by Aaron Sprinkle and performed by Famous Cats

Time Away, Part 2 - Sabbath

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Does Sabbath rest apply to our creative efforts? We look at what scripture has to say and apply to how big a role art plays in our working lives.

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Innovation Age,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

Bumper Music:

“Cool Ranch,” written by Aaron Sprinkle and performed by Famous Cats

Time Away, Part 1 - Zzzzzzzz

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Is sleep overrated for an artist? Does it even get in the way of being able to create? We explore the role sleep plays in the life of the artist of what adjustments we might need to make into to improve our craft.

Source Material:

“Sleeping Habits of the Art World,” (https://whitehotmagazine.com/articles/sleeping-habits-art-world/3600)

“How Famous Artists Dealt with Insomnia,” (https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-famous-artists-dealt-insomnia)

“5 Sleeping Tips for Artists,” (http://www.jackiepartridge.com/news/5-sleeping-tips-for-artists)

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Innovation Age,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

Bumper Music:

“Funk Circuit No. 9,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Patrons Needed

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The community of Christian artists needs patrons, people who believe in them and willing to invest in them so they can fulfill their calling. Today we hear the story of how a patronage created one of the greatest books of the 20th century.

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Innovation Age,” written by Cody Kurtz Martin and performed by Cody Martin

Bumper Music:

“La Fin Du Blonde,” written by Sam Barsh and performed by Tony Sopiano

WHO KILLED JESUS? - Mystery Solved

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Our final look into “Who Killed Jesus” examines whether Jesus as God could even be killed, as well as his deeper plan and motivation for it all.

The opinions expressed in the videos or source material connected to this podcast are not necessarily those of Monumental Ministries.

Clips Used (Opener):

The Real Meaning of the Cross - Billy Graham (https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+real+meaning+of+the+cross+billy+graham); Bill O'Reilly talks about "Killing Jesus" on 60 Minutes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWEf5gheGwg&t=97s); Jesus was Innocent - important sermon clip (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDGPuwmuemo); Jordan Peterson discusses the story of Christ's crucifixion on Joe Rogan Experience podcast (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gzif0afjN5A&t=77s); Who killed Jesus and why? The politics surrounding his death (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzIbAskEmR8&t=150s); Jesus was Innocent (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6h0Jvl4q8s); Who Killed Jesus? The historical context of Jesus' crucifixion (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLkD4JmTbQk&t=43s)

Other Clips:

“Dallas Willard - Creation was an act of joy” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_z4PcpqGwPI&t=170s); “Tim Keller on Jesus’s death as an act of friendship” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNkFUdo7P8o); “What are the proofs for the resurrection of Jesus?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Je9lI5jPTnQ&t=207s); “John Piper: The Explosive Power of the Resurrection | Sing! Conference Highlight” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBpbOT8EzXc); “The Historical Facts Argument for the Resurrection - Dr. Gary Habermas” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8fKZ9QyHH4&t=167s); “The Resurrection of Jesus: Fact or Ancient Fiction? | N.T. Wright at UT Austin” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cz201Od_Xe4&t=1s); “Trevor Hudson - Experiencing the Presence of Resurrection Love” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKYZ2xDuxJI&t=353s)

Ad Music:

“Bright and Warm Horizon,” written and performed by Alex Kipp

Episode Music:

“Powering Up” by Salon Dijon; “The Rise of Hope” by Caleb Etheridge; “Inspire” by Shimmer; “Longing for Home” by Gold Coast; “Less Traveled” by Kevin Graham; “Forevermore” by Reveille; “Resurrection” and “Discovering the Ancients” by Cody Martin;

WHO KILLED JESUS? - Suspect #4

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Part four of our investigation into “Who Killed Jesus” focuses on why Jesus came to earth in the first place.

The opinions expressed in the videos or source material connected to this podcast are not necessarily those of Monumental Ministries.

Clips Used (Opener):

Other Clips:

“2007: Marion Jones admits to doping” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkQpTdVK1cc); “R.C. Sproul: The Necessity of the Atonement (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrGYoRdNOes&t=199s); “The Real Meaning of the Cross” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1mcW0RSW7w&t=870s); “Adrian Rogers: Why the Cross” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBkmmOkJrGU&t=341s); “The Power and Message of the Cross” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL8mJQ39zjw); “Why Did Jesus Have to Die?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4L9GenitjQg&t=299s)

Ad Music:

“Bright and Warm Horizon,” written and performed by Alex Kipp

Episode Music:

“Powering Up” by Salon Dijon; “Still Waters” by Greater Still; “Redemption” and “Sweet Memories” by Adam Saban; “The Changing Tides” by Brent Wood; “Atmos” by Gold Coast; “I Dream in Three” by JCar; “Hope” by Fair Frame

WHO KILLED JESUS? - Suspect #3

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Part three of our look into “Who Killed Jesus” centers on those who delivered Jesus into the hands of the Romans: his own countrymen.

The opinions expressed in the videos or source material connected to this podcast are not necessarily those of Monumental Ministries.

Source Material:

“The Opposition of the Pharisees to Jesus as Teacher and Messiah,” (https://uir.unisa.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10500/16170/dissertation_tarasenko_a.pdf?isAllowed=y&sequence=1

Clips Used (Opener):

Other Clips:

“The Killing of Jesus, Part 1 - The Story Begins” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_J9lggWhjNI&t=43s); “Jesus before the Sanhedrin (Mark 14:53–72) — A Sermon by R.C. Sproul” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-UfKIGdiOI&t=69s); “The Sinless Savior before the Sinister Sanhedrin - Part Two (Luke 22:63-71)” (https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+sinless+savior+before+the+)

Ad Music:

“Bright and Warm Horizon,” written and performed by Alex Kipp

Music:

“Powering Up” by Salon Dijon; “Distant” and “Like Wind” by EVOE; “Set Free” by Abel; “Holy Ground” by Cody Masters; “A New Season” by Holiday on the Moon; “In the Night” and “Murmur” by Lost Ghosts; “Changing” by Outside the Sky

WHO KILLED JESUS? - Suspect #2

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Part two of our investigation into who killed Jesus begins continues with the man who gave the order for Christ to be crucified: Pontius Pilate.

The opinions expressed in the videos connected to this podcast are not necessarily those of Monumental Ministries.

Clips Used (Opener):

Other Clips:

“Who was the real Pontius Pilate? The man who killed Christ - timeline” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fppoqtIu2ug);

“Pilate’s trial of Christ - Jesus: His Life (S1, E6) - History Channel” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73LZbVK-7Vc)

Ad Music:

“Bright and Warm Horizon,” written and performed by Alex Kipp

Episode Music:

“Powering Up” by Salon Dijon

WHO KILLED JESUS? - SUSPECT #1

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Our investigation of who killed Jesus begins with the most obvious perpetrators: the soldiers who tortured, whipped, and crucified Christ.

Big thanks to worldhistory.org for background historical information.

Clips Used (Opener):

Other Clips:

“The Horror of a Roman Scourging - Rick Renner” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZIxkhIzEgE&t=651s);

“Jesus Suffering and Crucifixion - A Medical Point of View” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0B3kgiLxybY&t=564s);

Ad Music:

“Bright and Warm Horizon,” written and performed by Alex Kipp

Episode Music:

“In the Beginning” and “Powering Up” by Salon Dijon;

“Changing” by Outside the Sky;

“Murmur” by Lost Ghosts;

“Endless Night” by Moments;

“West” by Shimmer.

Licensing available by request.

Lessons From The Gardner

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Isabella Stewart Gardner established a museum displaying all her art upon her death. It had very specific requirements so as to keep her legacy as she desired it. Has that occurred? What assurances to we have about protecting our name or legacy after we die?

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Outside the Lines,” written by Aaron Sprinkle and performed by Lone Canyon

Bumper Music:

“Summersteen,” written by Sam Barsh and performed by Tony Sopiano

Why So Serious?

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Can artists laugh at themselves? Sadly not often. It’s what turns people off most to the artistic community: pretentiousness. We have to stop thinking we’re “above it all” and the arrogance that comes with it. Matt talks about the need for us to be self-effacing without being self-defeating.

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Outside the Lines,” written by Aaron Sprinkle and performed by Lone Canyon

Bumper Music:

“Space Child,” written by Dustin Ransom performed by Cast of Characters

Audio Clips:

“Billy Crystal’s Opening Monologue 1993 Oscars,” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CF6fpn8Ts68)

“The Opening of the Academy Awards 1984 Oscars,” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Kl_2MO8D6Y)

“The Opening of the Academy Awards in 1970,” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEnAY6tqSBA)

Done!

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

What do you do when you finish a project? In this episode we tackle an artistic theology of finishing. When God’s people won a battle, they often celebrated or feasted. Shouldn’t we do likewise. We also talk about how finishing is very Biblical, starting with the One we worship.

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

Ad Music:

“Outside the Lines,” written by Aaron Sprinkle and performed by Lone Canyon

Bumper Music:

“Hope,” written and performed by Ryan Saranich

Thoughts on Jonestown (Jordan Biel interview)

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Matt talks with pastor and author Jordan Biel about the “Heaven on Earth” series. Specifically, are there are leadership takeaways or warnings for pastors that we can learn from the life and tragedy of Jim Jones.

Theme Music:

“Stick to the Plan,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Dr. Delight

The Cost of Nothing

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 10:54:00 -0400

This episode originally aired June 14, 2021.

Matt talks about an Italian artist who sold a “sculpture” for $18000…but the sculpture was literally nothing.

Source Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0kbgXDMQUs&t=156s

Artist Spotlight:

Daulton Reese - Author of My Story

What Makes a Story Christian

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

What often holds Christians back in storytelling are self-imposed limits of what we think is morally acceptable for church audiences. However a simple reading of the Bible itself disproves that. We need to shift our thinking in order to become storytellers who reflect the reality of life and the redemptive qualities of Jesus.

Other Music Used:

“Roman’s Candle,” written and performed by Sam Barsh.

ROI

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Description:

Art demands investors, but Christians are slow to see the “return on investment” in doing so. In this episode we explore the necessity for patrons and specific ideas on how to elevate our artistic game for the Kingdom.

Other Music Used:

“Morning Walk,” written by Dustin Ransom and performed by Renderings

One Thing

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 12:55:00 -0400

We try to fix everything in our lives every January 1, but what is one thing the Lord might want from us as believers and artists this year?

Other Music Used:

“Hit the Streets,” written by Landon Bailey and performed by LNDO

“Radiant Grace,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther and performed by Moments.