really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas
really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is a lighthearted dive into life's quirks, everyday absurdities, and the stories that make you stop and say, 'really?!' Each week the hosts share relatable moments, witty takes, and playful conversations that mix humor, honesty, and just the right amount of chaos. The show covers pop culture, relationships, and random observations from daily life, finding the funny and the human in it all.
Episodes
Our Love Letter to Adriana Trigiani's Big Stone Gap with Special Guest Kaitlin Dodi-Monk | really...
For our Season 1 Finale, Michael-Thomas and special guest Kaitlin Dodi-Monk discuss the book that has become their literary comfort food: Big Stone Gap by Adriana Trigiani.From favorite characters and unforgettable quotes to dream casting choices and Appalachian representation, this episode celebrates the story, community, and author that have inspired countless rereads over the years. Join us as
Books, Books, Books... | really...
In this book-filled episode of really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we're joined by special guest Elizabeth Paxton for a lively conversation about the stories that shaped us. From childhood favorites like The Chronicles of Narnia and Harry Potter to modern fantasy, thrillers, historical fiction, audiobooks, and guilty-pleasure reads, we share our favorite books, comfort reads, unforgettable
It's Broadway Baby! with Special Guest Jon Luttrell! | really...
Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas GriffithEpisode Production & Camera Operation: Kaitlin Dodi-MonkProduction Assistance: DCB ProductionsEditing: Sierra ChapmanArtwork: M. Thomas GriffithMusic: AlexGuz via Pixabay.comEmail: info.reallypod@gmail.comYouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypodInstagram: @really_thepodFacebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-ThomasLinktree: https://l
These Red Flags Are Gettin' Crazy | really...
Red flag, green flag, or beige flag?This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas discuss the pettiest red flags imaginable—from people who only communicate through Snapchat to workplaces that insist "we're a family here." They also explore friendship green flags, authenticity, long-term relationships, and the small habits that make us question everything.It's a funny, lighthearted conversation about the q
Graduation Was The Easy Part! | really...
Sierra and Michael-Thomas talk all things graduation — the excitement, the anxiety, the sweat-filled regalia, and the strange realization that nobody actually knows what they’re doing afterward. From mentorship and career advice to nostalgic high school memories and chaotic commencement ceremonies, this episode is equal parts heartfelt, hilarious, and painfully relatable.Executive Producers: Sierr
Shop Small part 2! | really...
This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas spotlight some of their favorite local businesses and restaurants across the Appalachian Highlands, including Bristol, Asheville, Johnson City, and Marion, Virginia. From beloved community staples to newer hidden gems, they explore the stories, food, and experiences that make small businesses so meaningful. The episode also touches on rebuilding after Hurricane
Shop Small, Love Local | really...
Sierra and Michael celebrate the small businesses that make the Appalachian Highlands and Western North Carolina communities feel like home. From Saluda to Kingsport, Johnson City to Hendersonville, and beyond, they highlight favorite local spots, discuss the importance of supporting local economies, and share stories about the restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, theaters, and community spaces th
May the 4th Be With You. | really...
Celebrate May the 4th with Sierra & Michael-Thomas as they dive deep into the galaxy far, far away. In this Star Wars–themed episode of really…, the conversation goes beyond lightsabers and space battles into the philosophy, character arcs, and cultural impact that make the franchise so iconic.From breaking down the Force as a form of “space meditation” to exploring the rise and fall of Anakin
We Asked the Dumbest Questions Possible... | really...
In this episode of really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we dive headfirst into a mix of absurd, hilarious, and surprisingly deep philosophical conversations. From debating whether cereal is technically a soup to questioning why ghosts don’t fall through floors, nothing is off-limits.Along the way, we explore the strange origins of language, the reality of inner dialogue, and the bigger questi
Best Friend Chit Chat… and It Gets Weird Fast. | really...
Sierra and Michael-Thomas sit down for a relaxed best friend catch-up filled with humor, random thoughts, and relatable moments. From childhood beliefs and favorite smells to low-key days and hilarious hypotheticals, this episode is all about the joy of everyday conversation. It’s light, honest, and a little chaotic—in the best way.Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas GriffithProduc
The 10 Levels of Audacity: From Mild Nerve to Criminal. | really...
In this episode, Michael-Thomas and Sierra break down the concept of audacity—what it is, why it feels like it’s everywhere, and how it shows up in everyday life.From “mild nerve” to full-blown “criminal audacity,” they introduce the Audacity Spectrum and share hilarious, relatable examples of people acting boldly, loudly, and sometimes completely incorrectly.They also explore the role of social m
Michael-Thomas Tries Chilean Treats! | really...
In this episode, Sierra shares snacks she brought back from Chile while Michael-Thomas gives his honest reactions in a live taste test. From dulce de leche to chocolate and banana gummies, they explore a range of flavors and textures while comparing them to familiar favorites.The conversation also shifts to Sierra’s experience with Chilean cuisine—what she tried, what stood out, and how food playe
Sierra's Chilean Adventure... | really...
Sierra takes us inside her unforgettable backpacking trip through Torres del Paine National Park—sharing the highs, the challenges, and the moments that completely changed her perspective.From intense hiking and unexpected travel mishaps to breathtaking sunrises and powerful life lessons, this episode explores what it really means to step outside your comfort zone.If you’ve ever dreamed of an adve
Phobias are really weird... | really...
Fear is weird. Phobias are weirder. And test anxiety? Way more common than you think.In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas explore personal fears, phobias, and the science behind why our brains react the way they do. Through stories, humor, and a phobia trivia game, they unpack the difference between everyday fears and true phobias.The conversation then turns to test anxiety—what causes it, h
That's Just The Way We've Always Done It! | really...
Why do people resist change so strongly?In this episode of really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we unpack the phrase everyone has heard at some point: “That’s just the way we’ve always done it.” From food habits and nostalgia to education and leadership, we explore why challenging the status quo can feel uncomfortable — and why it’s often necessary for growth.Along the way, we talk about how
Life Before GPS | really...
Before GPS was built into every phone and car, getting somewhere new required a very different set of skills. In this episode of really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we take a nostalgic trip back to the days of paper maps, road atlases, and printed MapQuest directions.We talk about how weather can shape our routines, how people navigated before smartphones, and why traditional navigation skil
What Do You Want to be When You Grow Up
What did you want to be when you grew up?In this episode, Michael-Thomas and Sierra dive into childhood nostalgia, snow days, book recommendations, and the complicated pressure behind choosing a career path.From marine biologist dreams and architect aspirations to the influence of media and the reality of changing majors, this conversation explores how our professional lives evolve — and why that’
Don't Tell Me to Calm Down!
“Calm down.”Few phrases are more triggering — or more dismissive.In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas explore why being told to calm down can feel invalidating and why it often makes situations worse. They discuss emotional triggers, tone policing, hormones, relationship dynamics, and the importance of empathy in communication.Instead of dismissing emotions, what if we got curious about them
We REALLY Need to Talk About Grocery Store Behaviors
We Really Need to Talk About Grocery Store BehaviorsWhy can we explore space… but not return a shopping cart?In this episode, we unpack the unspoken rules of the grocery store — from aisle blocking and abandoned perishables to the chaos of self-checkout and the moral test that is returning your cart.Somehow we detour into space exploration, ocean fears, warehouse clubs, and the psychology behind w
These Pet Peeves Will REALLY Send You Into a Rage
We’re back.Season 1, Episode 18 of Really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas marks our return from a short holiday break — and yes, we’ve officially started filming.This week, we’re diving into pet peeves — the everyday behaviors that somehow feel like personal attacks. From public etiquette fails to habits that honestly should be illegal, nothing is safe.Same opinions. Slightly upgraded production
We really are children of the theatre...
In this special episode of really…, Michael-Thomas is joined by the OG Bestie, Kaitlin, who steps in as guest host while Sierra is living her best yogi life. Together, they take a nostalgic walk down memory lane as lifelong “theatre kids,” reflecting on high school drama, community theatre days, and the formative experiences that shaped their friendship. From stage lights and show tunes to the bon
Favorite Things... that music we really love.
Happy Holidays!!! It’s the finale of our Favorite Things series, and we’re ending on a high note — music. 🎶In this episode, we’re talking about the songs, artists, and sounds that have shaped us, comforted us, hyped us up, and lived rent-free in our heads for years. From throwback favorites to current obsessions, we dig into why certain music sticks with us and how it becomes the soundtrack to dif
Favorite Things... the TV shows we really love.
In this installment of our Favorite Things series, we turn our attention to the TV shows that have shaped our humor, our nostalgia, and our comfort viewing. Sierra and Michael-Thomas dive into the series that defined different seasons of their lives, the shows they revisit again and again, and the ones they quote far too often. From iconic sitcoms to dramatic gems to the unexpected favorites that
Favorite Things... we really love movies.
Happy Holidays, from the Really Pod!It’s movie night on Really…! In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas kick off their “Favorite Things” series by diving into the films they love most — comedies that still make them laugh, dramas that hit a little too hard, musicals that live rent-free in their heads, documentaries they swear you have to watch, and a few guilty pleasure picks they can’t deny.
M-T really... loves cars!
🚗 This week on really… Sierra finally turns the spotlight on Michael-Thomas’ lifelong obsession: cars. From childhood dream machines to the vehicles that shaped his milestones, MT opens up about what driving, design, and horsepower mean to him.Sierra takes the interviewer’s seat to dig into the stories behind his favorites, the cars he still wishes he owned, and why four wheels can hold so much pe
really... Thanksgiving Part 2: Gratitude
We’re back with even more Thanksgiving chat, cozy vibes, and questionable family moments. In Part 2 of our “Very Thankful” series, Sierra and Michael-Thomas swap more hilarious holiday stories, reflect on the people and moments that shaped this year, and share what gratitude really looks like when life is… well… life-ing.Grab a slice of cranberry sauce and come hang out with us for a warm, funny,
really... Thanksgiving Part 1: Memories
It’s turkey time, y’all! In this first episode of a two-part really... Thankful series, Sierra and Michael-Thomas look back on Thanksgivings past — the good, the bad, the awkward, and maybe even the ugly. From family traditions to food fails, we’re serving up stories and laughter that pair perfectly with a second helping of mashed potatoes.Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLCExecutive Producers: Sierr
Is cursive REALLY dead...
Is cursive REALLY dead… or just resting? This week we’re joined by Ms. Amber, a brilliant high school educator who lives at the front lines of pens, pixels, and teenage opinions. Expect honest stories, a few hot takes, and practical ideas for parents, teachers, and anyone who’s ever argued about “proper” handwriting. Spoiler: it’s complicated—and kind of fun.A huge thank you to our very special gu
A Very Gilmore Really...
This week, Sierra’s out of town — but the coffee’s still hot and the conversation’s flowing! Michael-Thomas is joined by longtime friend and fellow community theatre actor Elizabeth, a true Gilmore Girls expert. Together, they dive into Stars Hollow nostalgia, favorite fast-talking moments, and what makes Lorelai and Rory’s world so timeless.Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLCExecutive Producers: Sie
A Really Wicked Halloween...
It’s Halloween week, and things are getting really… wicked. Sierra saw Wicked on stage for the very first time, and Michael-Thomas couldn’t resist turning it into a full-on interview. What happens when someone sees Wicked for the first time — and then has to talk about it with a theatre kid? Michael-Thomas asks all the important questions: Which witch won you over? Were there tears? Did you gasp a
The British are really... BAKING!
The mixers are on, the tension’s high, and someone’s crème pâtissière just curdled. 😬In this week’s episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas tackle The Great British Baking Show — the world’s most gentle stress test. Expect fondant-level drama, piping-hot opinions, and maybe a few soggy metaphors.Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLCExecutive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas GriffithEditing: Sierra
really... queue the chaos!
This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas tackle one of modern life’s great annoyances: waiting in line. From checkout queues that wind like a theme park ride to the people who forget how lines even work, we’re talking patience, personal space, and public chaos. Do we need more self-checkouts, fewer impulse aisles, or just better manners? Join us as we air our grievances—politely, of course.Produced by
really... we're talking about family vacations.
Family vacations: the concept sounds relaxing until someone cries in a Cracker Barrel parking lot. In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas talk about the planning, the chaos, the bonding, and the breakdowns that come with “getting away together.” Are vacations with friends just easier? You bet your beach towel they are.Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLCExecutive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M.
really... who's the top dog???
In this week's episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas explore the wild and wonderful bond between humans and their pups—especially those uncanny pairs who start to look alike. From quirky dog-owner dynamics to the unspoken rules of being a responsible pet parent, we dig into what makes dogs truly part of the family. We also explore some of those dog breeds you may have never heard of... and TRUST when
really... per my last email
This week, Sierra and Michael-Thomas are circling back to decode the world of corporate-speak—where “per my last email” means “you weren’t listening,” and “let’s touch base” means “prepare for a pointless meeting.” From reply-all fiascos to buzzwords that need to be retired immediately, we’re closing the loop on workplace nonsense and aligning on one key takeaway: it’s all ridiculous.Editing: Sier
really... gas station etiquette
We’re breaking down the unspoken rules of the gas station—pump hogs, snack choices, bathroom nightmares, and everything in between. Join Thomas and Sierra as they ask the real question: is there REALLY such a thing as “normal” gas station etiquette?Editing: Sierra ChapmanArtwork: M. Thomas GriffithMusic: AlexGuz via Pixabay.comFind us on Instagram: @really_thepodFind us on Facebook at Really... wi
Are we really doing this??? Yes, yes we are. Really.
Kicking off the really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas podcast as they share who they are, why they started this show, and what listeners can expect each week. From everyday absurdities to pop culture, relationships, and laugh-out-loud stories, this debut episode sets the tone for a playful podcast full of fun, honesty, and those “really?!” moments.
Throwback Thursday!!! Here’s an encore of Gas Station Etiquette
Because yens liked it so well… we thought we’d throwback to it while we’re busy building our YouTube! We’re breaking down the unspoken rules of the gas station—pump hogs, snack choices, bathroom nightmares, and everything in between. Join Thomas and Sierra as they ask the real question: is there REALLY such a thing as “normal” gas station etiquette?Editing: Sierra ChapmanArtwork: M. Thomas Griffit
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