K-Town Connection Official Home of the K-Town Connection

In Episode 3 of the Mill People Series on the K-Town Connection Podcast, the #RoughTalkCousins — Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault — along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin sit down with longtime Cannon Mills, Fieldcrest-Cannon and Pillowtex supervisor Kathy Dunham Gotham. Kathy, who also happens to be Chris’ mother, began her mill career in the Towel Cutting Department in the 1970s and worked through the final days of production in 2003, finishing in Towel Packing. Her journey spans the rise, transition and eventual closing of one of Kannapolis’ most iconic industries. This episode offers powerful, firsthand insight not only into daily life inside the mill, but also into growing up in the mill village and spending time in Kannapolis during the 1950s and 1960s. It’s a personal, historical and deeply local conversation that captures the heart of life shaped by the mills.

Filmed inside the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage in Kannapolis, the K-Town Connection team — the #RoughTalkCousins Ryan Dayvault & Chris Hughes, joined by Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin — sits down with retired Cannon Mills Plant Manager Keith Garver for an unforgettable and insightful conversation. Garver, who held a wide range of roles across multiple departments, shares vivid stories from his years inside Plant 1, including what it was like to be among the final employees on the floor when the last Cannon towels came off the conveyor belts in 2003. This is a powerful, can’t-miss episode filled with history, firsthand insight, and hometown pride. Be sure to like and share our content on Facebook and YouTube to support the series!

Filmed inside the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage in beautiful Kannapolis, North Carolina, the #RoughTalkCousins — Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin — proudly celebrate Veterans Day with a very special guest: Clyde Church, a 103-year-old World War II veteran and longtime Kannapolis resident. Clyde shares incredible stories from his time in the war, life in post-war Kannapolis during the 1940s, and his years working in the No. 1 Weave Room at Cannon Mills. He also reflects on the city’s changes through the decades, his visits to the Dayvault’s Dyno Garage for car tune-ups, and his friendship with racing legend Ralph Earnhardt. This unforgettable conversation honors not just a local hero, but a true symbol of American grit and community spirit. Don’t miss one of the most inspiring episodes yet of the K-Town Connection. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share to help us celebrate the stories that make Kannapolis great.

Filmed on location in the heart of beautiful downtown Kannapolis, this week’s episode takes us back to Towel City Tavern for a second visit — and this time, we made sure everything met our high standards! We sit down with Steve Steinbacher and General Manager Chelsea Doyle to talk about all the exciting new things happening at the restaurant, including a refreshed menu, the addition of a Sunday brunch, and expanded outdoor seating — both on the terrace overlooking the ballpark and now along the sidewalk café-style. It’s a fun and lively conversation that still delivers plenty of great info for locals and visitors alike. As always, the show is hosted by the #RoughTalkCousins — Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault — joined by Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin. 💍 Bonus note: This episode hit the air a little later than usual because Chris had some big news — he’s officially a newlywed! Join us in congratulating Chris and his new bride, Heather!

In Episode 51 of the K-Town Connection Podcast, the #RoughTalkCousins Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, welcome a true Kannapolis treasure—Doris Buchanan. At 93 years old, Doris reflects on her remarkable 70+ years in Kannapolis, where she dedicated her life to education and community service. Beginning her career in 1952, hired by then-superintendent W.J. Bullock, Doris served Kannapolis City Schools as a teacher, principal, and eventually as a member of the Board of Education—continuing to serve well into her 80s. Her lifelong commitment to education has left an indelible mark on generations of students and families across Kannapolis. Beyond her professional achievements, Doris shares stories of her early years in town, including living in Mary Ella Hall in the 1950s, as well as her ongoing devotion to her faith community at Trinity Methodist Church, where she still remains active today. This heartfelt episode, filmed in the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage, captures not only the incredible story of a lifelong educator but also the history and spirit of Kannapolis itself.

In Episode 50 of the K-Town Connection Podcast, the #RoughTalkCousins Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, welcome William C. “Bill” Cannon, Jr., grandson of the late Charles A. Cannon and president of the Board of Directors for the Cannon Foundation. Filmed in the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage, this milestone episode takes listeners on a journey through the early days of Kannapolis. Bill Cannon shares personal reflections and stories about his grandfather’s life, the founding of the mill, and the challenges faced in building a community from the ground up. With rich details of how the mill persevered through uncertainty and ultimately became the heart of Kannapolis, this episode is both a history lesson and a tribute to the resilience of the town and its people. For anyone who loves the history of Kannapolis, its mill heritage, and the legacy of the Cannon family, this is an unforgettable episode you won’t want to miss.

Filmed in the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage, the #RoughTalkCousins Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, sit down with lifelong Kannapolis resident Mike Herman for an unforgettable conversation. Mike shares stories of growing up in Kannapolis, his two decades of service with the Kannapolis Police Department, and his time working on the pit crew of local legend and 7-time NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt. Along the way, he reflects on the early days of Kannapolis, the memories of Idiot’s Circle, and entertaining behind-the-scenes moments with Earnhardt. The conversation also highlights Mike’s experiences in owning and managing a race team for his son, Mike Herman Jr., adding another layer of racing history to this hometown tale. Packed with incredible stories, community pride, and a few laughs, this episode is a must-watch for fans of Kannapolis history, NASCAR, and local storytelling. Don’t forget to like our page, subscribe, and share the show with friends!

Chad Bearden is a country music artist, podcaster, and proud Kannapolis resident with a story that spans from small-town Alabama to the heart of Nashville. Chad began his career serving his community as a police officer, but ultimately followed his lifelong passion for music, making the bold move to Tennessee to pursue a career as a country music performer and songwriter. His journey eventually brought him to Kannapolis—first as a touring musician playing local venues, and later as a citizen who embraced the community as his own. Beyond the stage, Chad’s talents and charisma have also found a home in the world of NASCAR, where he hosts the popular podcast Checkers, Wreckers, and What the Heckers, blending racing culture with his trademark humor and storytelling. With his unique background in law enforcement, music, and motorsports, Chad brings an authentic voice to every project he takes on. In this episode, filmed at the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage with the #RoughTalkCousins Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, listeners will enjoy an entertaining and insightful conversation that connects the worlds of country music, NASCAR, and community life in Kannapolis.

Joining the #RoughTalkCousins Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes is Christina Wright, a real estate investor and partner at Branch Wealth Partners, where she helps clients in Kannapolis and beyond develop strategies for building financial freedom through real estate. With over a decade of experience in private equity and banking—Christina brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insight to her work. A licensed North Carolina Real Estate Broker, Christina combines her professional expertise with a passion for teaching others how to maximize generational wealth through smart real estate investments. Raised in Charlotte and now living in Kannapolis, Christina enjoys spending time with her husband, stepson, and their two miniature dachshunds. A loyal Mets fan, she also stays dedicated to fitness and a healthy lifestyle.

In this episode, we sit down with NASCAR driver Corey LaJoie, a fan favorite known for his grit, humor, and passion for racing. From growing up in a racing family to carving out his own path in the NASCAR Cup Series, Corey shares stories from the track, his personal journey, and what keeps him motivated in one of America’s most demanding sports. Whether you’re a lifelong Kannapolis resident, a NASCAR enthusiast, or simply someone who loves great hometown stories, this episode will give you an inside look at racing culture and the people who keep it alive. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to K-Town Connection for more conversations with the people shaping the heart and history of Kannapolis. Learn more about Corey LaJoie and connect with him here: https://coreylajoieracing.com/ The 5th Annual Corey LaJoie Kickball Klassic will take October 2nd at Atrium Health Ballpark.

Episode 45 of the K-Town Connection podcast takes us inside the legendary Bell Game, North Carolina’s longest continuous high school football rivalry, as Chris Hughes of the #RoughTalkCousins sits down with A.L. Brown head coach Justin Hardin. Filmed at the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage, this special episode dives into the tradition, pride, and intensity surrounding the annual matchup between the A.L. Brown Wonders and the Concord Spiders. With the Wonders kicking off their season just last week, they now prepare to host the Spiders at Kannapolis Memorial Stadium on Friday, August 29, aiming for their 11th straight victory in this storied rivalry. Coach Hardin shares his thoughts on the game, its impact on both Kannapolis and Concord, and why the Bell Game continues to be such a defining moment for the community year after year. This is an episode filled with history, hometown pride, and the spirit of Friday night lights that you won’t want to miss.

In Episode 44 of the K-Town Connection podcast, the #RoughTalkCousins—Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes—along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, sit down with lifelong Kannapolis resident and local businessman, Drew Maher. As the owner of DM Properties, Drew has built a strong reputation in the local real estate market, keeping his finger on the pulse of a community that continues to grow and evolve. The conversation takes listeners on a journey through Drew’s fascinating background—from his days as the starting quarterback at A.L. Brown High School to his time at Lenoir-Rhyne University, and even a stint as a minor league baseball umpire. Beyond his business ventures, Drew remains committed to giving back, supporting local athletics and community efforts across Kannapolis. This episode is a mix of hometown pride, entrepreneurial spirit, and inspiring stories that highlight Drew’s deep connection to the city he calls home.

In Episode 43 of the K-Town Connection podcast, the #RoughTalkCousins—Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault—along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, welcome special guest Mike Bost from What-A-Burger for a mouthwatering trip through local history. Bost shares the detailed story of the beloved restaurant chain that started in Concord, N.C., and grew to serve surrounding communities. With two iconic locations—#1 and #10—still proudly operating in Kannapolis, What-A-Burger remains a hometown staple. From its humble beginnings to becoming a community landmark, Bost’s memories and behind-the-scenes stories bring the brand’s legacy to life. This nostalgic and flavorful conversation will leave listeners hungry for their next What-A-Burger lunch or dinner.