Transcript

American Holiday Gift Guide w/ Mike Rowe

From Theo Von · Episode page · Watch on YouTube

· 1 h 6 min · 12,133 words · 269 timestamped sections

This is the full, timestamped transcript of "American Holiday Gift Guide w/ Mike Rowe", an episode of Theo Von published November 28, 2025 (1 h 6 min, about 12,133 words). It mentions 73 people, works and ideas, including Nokona, Albizia (tree), Nokona baseball gloves, Invasive species, Sullivan gloves.

What this episode is about

The discussion focuses on promoting American-made products as meaningful holiday gifts, emphasizing the importance of supporting local manufacturing and communities. Guest Mike Rowe highlights the benefits of giving gifts that not only serve the recipient but also contribute to the American economy and the well-being of fellow citizens.

Key takeaways

  • Buying American-made gifts? Double the joy—support local artisans and surprise your loved ones!
  • Mike Rowe—a patriotic Santa, spotlighting resilience and quality in American manufacturing.
  • Crashing websites with Christmas spirit, Sullivan Glove Company—a testament to U.S. craftsmanship since 1941.
  • Two gloves meet in the woods: A rugged reality check—American gloves for diverse adventures.
  • Why dream of falcons when you can train them? Sullivan gloves: A niche for every niche.

Who speaks in this episode?

What is discussed, and when

  1. – 10:00: Sullivan gloves, Bend, Oregon, Sullivan Glove Company, Chukar Cherries
  2. – 20:00: cerebral palsy, Chukar Cherries, Crippling Hot Sauce, Drew Davis
  3. – 30:00: Shopify, American Giant, Oddly Sweet Dolls, A League of Their Own
  4. – 40:00: Scraggly Bush, Squallet, Lacy Michelle, Christine Johnson
  5. – 50:00: Invasive species, Donell's Candies, Albizia Project, Candle Tit
  6. – 1:00:00: Olympia Provisions, Cala Tool Works, Calavera belt, Charleston, South Carolina
  7. – 1:05:53: King's Home, Prodigal Pottery, Heart Puzzles, Nakona Gloves

Notable quotes from "American Holiday Gift Guide w/ Mike Rowe"

  • Spectrum of activities. From a night out on the town to the ranch or the workshop, Sullivan gloves stand for warmth durability and the American spirit. Get your special holiday someone's hands into some warm Americanmade goodness.
    about Sullivan gloves · at
  • Mhm., And, we're, talking, about, Chukar cherries out of Yakama Valley Washington. Will you give us a little bit more intel on those? Can you tell?
    about Chukar Cherries · at
  • Born with cerebral palsy, Drew started crippling hot sauce at 16 with $3,000, a folding table, and his grandmother's kitchen. What began as a high school project became a.
    about cerebral palsy · at
  • Yeah., Bob, Story, who, is, the, founder, of Nakona Gloves. He there's a famous quote by him. I'd rather take a bucket of worms and go fishing than import a Nakona glove.
    about Nakona Gloves · at
  • I want to thank Shopify for sponsoring this special Americanmade holiday gift episode.
    about Shopify · at
  • Oddly, Sweet, Dolls., People collect all kinds of things from baseball cards to watches to rocks. So, this shouldn't be too crazy to hear. I collect oddly sweet dolls.
    about Oddly Sweet Dolls · at
  • Onward., This, is, from, our, friends, at Scraggly Bush. A truly unforgettable American original where Deep from Papon, Nebraska, a husband and wife have turned laughter and hard work into a true American.
    about Scraggly Bush · at
  • Of Albizia. Also, this holiday season give something with true aloha. Proof that even the most invasive species can be transformed into something regenerative, enduring, and…
    about Invasive species · at

Who and what is mentioned in this episode?

People

  • Lacy Michelle — Person · 3 mentions · first at
    Member or friend. Oddly sweet dolls are created in the onewoman art studio of Miss Lacy Michelle, who hand sculpts every creepy cute doll straight from her home workshop. What…
  • Drew Davis — Person · 2 mentions · first at
    Crippling hot sauce. When life gives you lemons, make hot sauce. In a small Missouri town, Drew Davis did just that.
  • Bob Storey — Person · 2 mentions
  • Don Steppp — Person · 2 mentions
  • Georgia Hal — Person · 2 mentions
  • Pam Montgomery — Person · 1 mention · first at
    In, the, heart, of, Washington, State's cherry country, an idea was hatched by a woman named Pam Montgomery whose family owned a cherry orchard. As Pam strolled beneath the…
  • Nolan Ryan — Person · 1 mention · first at
    No,, I, know, Nolan, Ryan, was, a, famous Nakona user. I remember that from growing up. 2026 is the 100redyear anniversary. For a hundred years they've been making these gloves right.
  • Joey Valente — Person · 1 mention · first at
    That help restore the island's native forests. Husband and wife founders Joey Valente and Christine Johnson, alongside their team hunt Albizia trees and turn them into heirlooms made entirely on Aahu. From their Wahwa workshop and cafe.
  • Christine Johnson — Person · 1 mention · first at
    Native forests. Husband and wife founders Joey Valente and Christine Johnson, alongside their team hunt Albizia trees and turn them into heirlooms made entirely on Aahu. From…
  • Steppp family — Person · 1 mention · first at
    These candies have been curated by the Steppp family since 1956 when Don and Elma Steppp opened their little shop on St. Patrick's Day. And for nearly 70 years, their family has handcrafted toffes, chocolates, caramels, and other.
  • Elma Steppp — Person · 1 mention · first at
    These candies have been curated by the Steppp family since 1956 when Don and Elma Steppp opened their little shop on St. Patrick's Day. And for nearly 70 years, their family…
  • Kate Thornton — Person · 1 mention · first at
    Asking around to some of our friends to see if they recommended any in their area. And my friend Kate Thornton wanted to recommend a domestic company in her area. So, I thought we'd see if she could help. Can you hear us.
  • Elias Cairo — Person · 1 mention · first at
    Is not just made in America. It's independently owned by its founder Elias Cairo, who first discovered his passion for cured meats when on an apprentice ship in Switzerland.…
  • Michael Williams — Person · 1 mention · first at
    Cala, Tool, Works., Deep, in, the, woods, of John's Island, South Carolina, Michael Williams ditched corporate life to do something truly uplifting. Make belts by hand. Welcome to Cala Toolworks, a small batch leather shop with a cult-like.
  • Isaac Morton — Person · 1 mention · first at
    Workshop where the holidays smell like cast iron and cornbread. And that's where Isaac Morton started smithy Iron Wear, restoring old skillets before deciding to make his own.…
  • Bayard Winthrop — Person · 1 mention
  • Carly Summit — Person · 1 mention
  • Craig Summit — Person · 1 mention
  • Mike Steppp — Person · 1 mention
  • Ryan Steppp — Person · 1 mention
  • Zita — Person · 1 mention

Books & papers

  • Field of Dreams — Book · 1 mention · first at
    These gloves have been in iconic baseball movies, Field of Dreams A League of Their Own. You see them at ballparks all over the country.
  • A League of Their Own — Book · 1 mention · first at
    These gloves have been in iconic baseball movies, Field of Dreams A League of Their Own. You see them at ballparks all over the country.
  • Maxwell's Silver Hammer — Book · 1 mention

Companies & orgs

  • Nokona — Company · 7 mentions
  • Oddly Sweet Dolls — Company · 3 mentions · first at
  • Scraggly Bush — Company · 3 mentions · first at
  • Sullivan Glove Company — Company · 2 mentions · first at
    This, is, our, first, item, from, the, Sullivan Glove Company.
  • Crippling Hot Sauce — Company · 2 mentions · first at
    Crippling hot sauce. When life gives you lemons, make hot sauce. In a small Missouri town, Drew Davis did just that.
  • Nakona Gloves — Company · 2 mentions · first at
  • King's Home — Company · 2 mentions · first at
    There's, a, ministry, out, of, central Alabama called King's Home who is doing the Lord's good work by serving women and children fleeing domestic violence homelessness, and trafficking. That's heavy, but it's happening. through.
  • Dirty Jobs — Company · 1 mention · first at
    Mission is a friend with a laundry list of media accomplishments including the host of Dirty Jobs as well as he was host on QVC. he's America's bluecollar champion and he's…
  • US Forest Service — Company · 1 mention · first at
    Hawaii, tourism, plummeted, during, CO., So, they got a $250,000 US Forest Service grant to launch the company. Wow.
  • Albizia Project — Company · 1 mention · first at
    Your kitchen and that's it. You use it till you don't use it anymore and whatever. But that's not the Albizia project brother.
  • The Albizia Project — Company · 1 mention · first at
    Your kitchen and that's it. You use it till you don't use it anymore and whatever. But that's not the Albizia project brother.
  • Whitest Stone Mountain Orchards — Company · 1 mention · first at
    This, is, not, AI., That's, Whitest, Stone Mountain and this is Whitest Stone Mountain Orchards that is sending you some fruit and Hal and Claire, they're the ones running that orchard and they do an excellent job like through and.

Products & tech

  • Nokona baseball gloves — Product · 5 mentions
  • Sullivan gloves — Product · 3 mentions · first at
  • Chukar Cherries — Product · 3 mentions · first at
  • Squallet — Product · 3 mentions · first at
    After Craig's high school trapping hobby and a gag wedding gift the Fur Squallet, also known as a squirrel wallet, sparked a wild idea. With a COVID stimulus check and a lot of…
  • Deal With It (hot sauce) — Product · 2 mentions
  • Fur Squallet (Squirrel Wallet) — Product · 2 mentions
  • Granny Smith — Product · 1 mention · first at
    Well,, I, mean,, you, got, the, Granny, Smith, you got the Golden Delicious Cosmic, Crisp., That's, my, favorite.
  • Golden Delicious — Product · 1 mention · first at
    Well,, I, mean,, you, got, the, Granny, Smith, you got the Golden Delicious Cosmic, Crisp., That's, my, favorite.
  • Cosmic Crisp — Product · 1 mention · first at
    Well,, I, mean,, you, got, the, Granny, Smith, you got the Golden Delicious Cosmic, Crisp., That's, my, favorite.
  • Calavera belt — Product · 1 mention · first at
    Every single Calavera belt is cut and stitched and finished from American raised leather and solid US hardware. These aren't just belts, Theo they're heirlooms. This holiday season.
  • Ghost Pepper Palsy — Product · 1 mention
  • Laffy Taffy — Product · 1 mention

Concepts & topics

Places & events

  • Bend, Oregon — Place · 2 mentions · first at
    Hailing, from, Bend,, Oregon,, the, Sullivan Glove Company has been keeping their premium gloves distinctly Americanmade since 1941 sourcing everything from within these.
  • Whitest Stone Mountain — Place · 2 mentions · first at
    This, is, not, AI., That's, Whitest, Stone Mountain and this is Whitest Stone Mountain Orchards that is sending you some fruit and Hal and Claire, they're the ones running that orchard and they.
  • Johns Island, South Carolina — Place · 2 mentions
  • Yakama Valley, Washington — Place · 1 mention · first at
    Mhm., And, we're, talking, about, Chukar cherries out of Yakama Valley Washington. Will you give us a little bit more intel on those? Can you tell?
  • Casper, Wyoming — Place · 1 mention · first at
    So,, we, had, a, show, in, Casper,, Wyoming., I get back to my room and somebody had got me a little box of Donell's candies.
  • Charleston, South Carolina — Place · 1 mention · first at
    Smithy, Iron, Wear,, down, in Charleston, South Carolina. There's a workshop where the holidays smell like cast iron and cornbread. And that's where Isaac Morton started smithy Iron Wear, restoring old skillets.
  • Nocona, Texas — Place · 1 mention
  • Pawnee, Nebraska — Place · 1 mention
  • Pike Place Market — Place · 1 mention
  • Prosser, Washington — Place · 1 mention

Sponsors

  • Shopify — Sponsor · 3 mentions · first at
  • American Giant — Sponsor · 2 mentions · first at
    It's part of your clothes. Dang. Your shirt broke down on the side of the road. Not with American Giant. If you listen to this podcast, you've probably heard me talk about…
  • Donell's Candies — Sponsor · 2 mentions · first at
    So,, we, had, a, show, in, Casper,, Wyoming., I get back to my room and somebody had got me a little box of Donell's candies.
  • Olympia Provisions — Sponsor · 2 mentions · first at
    And, Olympia, Provisions, is, our, next company that we're going to feature.
  • Prodigal Pottery — Sponsor · 2 mentions · first at
    These, are, great, little, ornaments, and gifts, Mike, right here. Prodigal pottery.
  • Smithy Ironware — Sponsor · 2 mentions
  • Candle Tit — Sponsor · 1 mention · first at
    Come, straight, out, of, Chicago., Candle, Tit proves that light and laughter can come from the most unexpected of places.
  • Cala Tool Works — Sponsor · 1 mention · first at
    Cala, Tool, Works., Deep, in, the, woods, of John's Island, South Carolina, Michael Williams ditched corporate life to do something truly uplifting. Make belts by hand. Welcome to Cala Toolworks, a small.
  • Heart Puzzles — Sponsor · 1 mention · first at
    Activity? Huh? Who [snorts] is it? Or maybe just a fun tradition for you and the kiddos. Heart puzzles are gorgeous Americanmade gifts right out of central Indiana.

Full transcript with timestamps

Today we are presenting a special holiday episode where we recommend some genuine made in the USA products just in time for the holiday giftgiving season. These are products that are actually made right here in America. We really did our research. So when you're buying something, you're supporting a fellow American. And joining me for this merry mission is a friend uh with a laundry list of media accomplishments including uh the host of Dirty Jobs um as well as he was host on QVC. Uh he's America's bluecollar champion and uh and he's here today to help encourage you to support Americanmade while checking off your holiday hitter list. Today's guest is Mr. Mike Row.

I don't need and I will find a song. I, can't, believe, we're, doing, this. I, know.

I, mean,, we, talked, about, this, like, a, year ago as a goof, like Wayne's [snorts] World meets QVC to celebrate American manufacturing and Theo's like, "Yeah, man. I'll do that." We wanted to highlight American creativity. Yeah. Um, you know, we want to just create gifts where it's like a lot of times you want to give a gift to somebody and a lot of stuff we buy now in America is from other places. So, it was like, well, let's buy stuff that's from our neighbor, from our fellow American because then you're kind of given like two gifts. It's like I'm giving one gift because I am giving an actual physical gift to my friend. Yeah.

But, then, I'm, giving, another, gift, because the money from it is going towards uh an American family or an American company.

Well,, the, thing, that, got, me,, man,, you you've been touring for forever. We've, been, to, 250, something, cities, over the past four years. So

yeah., Well,, anybody, who, gets, around, the country sees that things are tough in certain areas, like really super tough in, other, areas., and, and and, the, idea, of reinvigorating manufacturing and and showing people what's possible. I mean that's the idea. Like the these these products, people should know that nobody paid to be on here. These are just items that we found made by people that we think are super cool and it would be great to crash their website and at the same time give give the audience, you know, something cool to stuff in a stocking.

Yeah., We, just, picked, a, lot, of, stuff, that we thought was cool to us, you know. Yeah. And like Mike mentioned, uh we do want to say that none of these products uh are paid to be here and a lot of these products are like companies that we happened upon in different places. Um some of them were businesses that we walked into when we're out on the road. Um some are ones that are near and dear to your heart and uh places that you've been a champion of for a long time. Uh and it's just nice to let people know that there is stuff that is made here in our country. um you have to seek it out a little bit and uh but that the the desire and um and the the ingenuity is still there and we put together our best hodgepodge of Christmas gifts that you can give to somebody you care about or even somebody that you don't.

Everything, on, this, show, is, working, right? They've got a heartbeat and, they, figured, something, out, and, you know, maybe you can uh drag them over the finish line.

I, think, we, can, start, highlighting, them if we jump in. Let's jump in. This, is, our, first, item, from, the, Sullivan Glove Company.

Hailing, from, Bend,, Oregon,, the, Sullivan Glove Company has been keeping their premium gloves distinctly Americanmade since 1941 sourcing everything from within these United States and crafting each glove through their dedicated and domestic 10person team who manage to churn out over 12,000 pair every year. Sullivan Glove products are handsome and made for versatility. They're perfect for a full spectrum of activities. From a night out on the town to the ranch or the workshop, Sullivan gloves stand for warmth durability and the American spirit. Get your special holiday someone's hands into some warm Americanmade goodness this year.

This, feels, great., And what is this? Leather. That's, elk., This, deer. Touch, mine, with, yours., Do, that. Oh, it's like two animals meeting in the woods. Huh?

Here's, what, you, do., If, you, really, want to mix it up, give me the one on your right hand. I'll give you the one on my right hand.

Yeah. I, don't, know, that, this, has, ever, been done before at the Sullivan Glove Company, but Oh, wow. These are See

that's, that's, a, heavier, duty, glove. Yes. Yeah. This is very has a very Russian sort of we can do it type of thing. I feel like you definitely this thing a lot. You could do a lot. You could also train that Falcon with this one.

Sure. The, Falcon, will, come, back., I, feel, like if you walked outside with this one on the Falcon will come back.

This, was, made, for, work, for, sure., These feel like almost almost like driving gloves.

There, was, a, guy, on, the, show, a, while back, a guy, a small guy. Um, it's a it's a child. And he was on here and he uh found some gloves just in his pocket. He found some like latex gloves in his pocket. There's gloves in my pocket.

Are, there, really? Rizzler. That's, his, name., Yeah. Is, Is, that, really, his, name?

Yeah,, that's, his, name. His, first, name. Christian, is, his, real, name., And, he's somewhere. He's like 6 to 8 years old. He's a great kid. And but he actually we sent him a pair of these.

Remember, when, I, pulled, these, out? Yeah. Well,, now, I'm, going, to, upgrade, to something even better. Check these out. These are really nice.

Well,, I'll, tell, you, this., So, there's nothing I like putting my hand more in than something made right here in America. I'll tell you that. You know, I mean, there was and that could have gone a few different ways, but I'm glad it went the way it did towards Sullivan gloves. Man

I, am, too. You, know,, these, gloves, were, created, by Edward Sullivan. He got started producing gloves for World War II mainly for the Navy. That's how this glove company started. And uh and it's still here. And it's up in Bend, Oregon. And I'll tell you a little bit of something about Bend. You know, that is a resilient place, Michael.

Sure, it, is,, man. It's, the, home, of, the, last, blockbuster. You know what I'm saying? There's stubborn people. They like to do things their own way. Um there's a lot of like uh even just the way it's set up there. It's not like a regular little city. It's little pockets of this and that and somebody's in the in the woods sucking tree sap out of something, you know? It's just that kind of people. If I see somebody sucking on something, I'll look the other way. I you know, I'll support them. You're walking through the woods and you see a fella

cidled, [clears throat], up, to, a, tree,, say maple, just, slurping, it. Yeah., And, he's, sucking, on, the, tree, to get the sap out. What do you approach? Do you take a photo? Do you step back?

Oh,, I, think, you, wait, a, few, minutes, till he's till he steps back and then you just let him spit it on your hot cakes. Dude, that's what I'm saying. That's I mean, if it's pure maple, I don't know what he was getting. But let's get back to the gloves here, Michael. Um, I do want to say there's only five glove companies left that manufacture in the USA.

They, got, work, gloves,, they, got, driving gloves, they got rodeo gloves, they got going around town gloves. They're all soft, they're all supple, they're all tough. It's It's a great company.

Yeah,, these, can, be, great., They, have classic. It says leather motorcycle. Wow. So, if you want to get out there and you want to get your baby girl one of those big sodas and let her sit behind you on a Gold Wing or something and you want to get out there and show off, you want to be a little Sturgis baby out there, you can do it in these Solomons. And they have rodeo and ranch. If you want to, if you like dipping your nuggets in some deep ranch, you can wear these gloves and do it. Is that what they mean? You think?

I, don't, think, so. Oh,, these, feel, good,, man., Honestly,, you can feel quality like you really really, really know it. You know, you know it when you see it. You really know it when you touch it. But when to your point,

when, you, push, your, hand, slowly into, something, that, is, undeniably, of quality,

then, all, of, your, fingers, come, together in a joyous fist of solidarity. Come, together

right, now. And how do they smell? Like if you really had to sum it up, what is the aroma?

They, smell, great., The, insides, smell, a little different than the outsides, but that's kind of nice. That's how I like it. Sullivan gloves. Thank you guys for uh sending us a few pairs so that we could show them off.

All, you, need, is, glove. All, bang, bang, Maxwell, Silver, Hammer. Can't remember that.

That, is, a, serious, copyright, infringement right there. I'll be amazed if you can get away with that.

You, serious? We'll, see. The, Beatles,, they're, very, grabby, with their with their what you call their IP. Yeah.

But, yeah,, I, think, when, people, look, back at this and wonder what the heck just happened, the image that's really going to stick with him is the guy in the woods sucking the sap out of the maple tree.

Yeah. Well,, let's, chat, about, a, new, product here, Mike. I hate to keep us moving along, but we got a lot of products to hit.

Miles, to, go, before, we, sleep. Amen., Some, of,, those, Solomon gloves are so dexteritious, you could actually enjoy a fine piece of fruit in them.

I, got, to, admit,, I, hadn't, thought, about that, but as Tim comes in with these delicious looking, beautifully wrapped perfectly boxed pieces of fruit. Uh, I will say that the that the idea of eating them with gloved hands is it's appealing.

Mhm., And, we're, talking, about, Chukar cherries out of Yakama Valley Washington. Will you give us a little bit more intel on those? Can you tell?

In, the, heart, of, Washington, State's cherry country, an idea was hatched by a woman named Pam Montgomery whose family owned a cherry orchard. As Pam strolled beneath the cherry trees enamored by the sweet smell of the sundried fruits, she began to experiment with storing the cherries without adding any sugars or preservatives as was recommended. Instead, Pam made a commitment to keep her cherries additiverfree and eventually combined them with chocolate and chukar cherries were born. Now sold in Seattle's famous Pike Place and from its headquarters in Proer, Washington. You can also find these in a variety of cherries and chocolates at chukar.com.

That's chukar.com. Oh,, I, love, that. Yeah, you got to think if you think about a cherry, it's really all some people say it's a it's just a little apple. Have you ever seriously heard of anybody refer to a cherry as a little apple? Ever?

Nope. All right., There's, no, wrong, answer,, but part of why I wanted to do this was just to sit close enough to you for a protracted period of time to see if I can become one of the few people on the planet with some insight as to how your brain actually works.

Well,, I, think, it, actually, does, a, lot, of times the real truth. But there is something beautiful about a little cherry cuz sometimes you want an apple. Sometimes you want 40 apples and you're like, "Ah, I can't eat all these 40 apples at one time." And you see a cherry and you're like, "Oh, okay."

So,, I'm, going, showed, up. Put, Put, some, out, here. Yeah,, I'd, love, to, have, one.

You, can, see, them. Oh,, wow. They, don't, look, like, your, normal cherries. I would say they look like uh like a dehydrated cherry almost.

God,, these, are, good. I, know., They're, amazing. And I think just knowing that they're natural,

knowing, they're, not, all, jacked, up., Like you see a lot of you, know,, fruit, these, days, and, it's doing peptides, it's on um GLMP1 or whatever and it's on, you know, you will get a a pear or whatever and it's been doing creatine, you're like, "What in the hell is this?" as big as a pumpkin. You know, the most the most suspicious thing is the color when they're really super vibrant and when they look so delicious that you know that that's just not how it is in life, man. That's not what natural is. This is natural.

Who, would, you, get, these, for, in, your family? Be honest with me, Mike. Maybe, for, an, office, worker.

Yeah. You, know,, it's, it's, a, thoughtful, thing to do. You know, it's a once you're talking about an ingestable you are getting into like a personal kind of thing. You give it to perfect strangers.

Oh,, I've, sold, bad, pills, to, people, over the years. So, inviting people to buy something that's good for them is certainly not a problem. Um

what's, a, new, direction, for, you, then? Yeah., Oh,, dude,, I, bought, a, batch, of, fake steroids from somebody in high school injected it into my body for like 12 weeks. Dude

what, happened?, I, don't, know. Well,, look,, just, for, the, record,, if you're just tuning in, these are these are cherries. They're natural cherries. Don't inject them into your body. There's no there's no need for it. Just put it in your mouth, chew it, and let the unmistakable delight of cherries the way God made them.

Wash, over, your, pallet uh, and, uh, thrill, to, the, delight, as, it journeys through your digestive tract. M and I'll tell you this. These come in a beautiful case. What is this?

Look, at, that., No,, honestly,, that's, a great point. That's, 9, by, 12,, I, believe.

Looks, looks, about, right., H, maybe, more., I think that's a foot. I think that's 12. I think that's 12 by 9.

Okay. Well,, I, guess, it', be, the, same,, would, it? 9 by 12. No, one's, going, to, challenge, you, there, Mike, cuz you're universe.

I, mean,, that, that, that's, at, least, a foot. But the simple fact that you know these chocolate covered cherries are in here sleeping and I don't want to I know it's the lights are bright if we're just going to expose them right away.

There, we, go., [sighs] Oh yeah. [snorts] Look at that. Raspberry truffles vanilla almonds, classic cranberries. You can see the list for yourself and then one layer comes back.

Oh, my, gosh. Look, at, that. And, look, at, these., I'm, going, to, show these up so the baby girls at home can see them.

There, we, go., Oh,, hello, Pam. Hello,, Theo. Yep,, that's, me., Thank, you, so, much, for, uh being a part of our um giftgiving holiday season and uh and inspiring us with your Chukar Cherries story. Uh this is one of our heroes, Mike.

Hi,, Pam. Hi,, Mike. And, Pam,, tell, me, this, and, thank, you, so much for joining us today. Uh how do you Is it Shukar? Shukar.

It's, chucker. Chucker. It's a bird. You know the logo that looks like a little penguin?

Yeah. Well,, that's, that's, actually, a, chucker bird. That's, awesome. Yeah. Congratulations.

Last, Thanks., And, last, year, we, dried, uh 700,000 lbs of cherries. Holy, cow.

Oh, my, gosh., What's, the, most, interesting thing about cherries that the average American would benefit from knowing but currently doesn't?

Probably the average wouldn't know that this is one of the best places to grow cherries in the world.

So,, how, many, people, do, you, employ, now? About, 75, a, year. Nice., We, really, have, focused, on, using, US products, US labor.

Well,, that's, one, of the, things, that stood out to us whenever um whenever we're searching for companies like yours is just the the the desire to use American products, providing jobs for other Americans.

Having, people, have, a, wonderful, place where they like to work and customers that enjoy what you're doing. I think that will keep Chucker going.

That's, the, American, dream, right, there. Yep. You're living it. Exactly. You're, living, the, American, dream, through cherries. I think it's terrific.

Amen., Well,, thank, you, so, much,, Pam,, uh, for creating Chuck Rar Cherries. And Mike,

I'm, literally, going, to, order, three, of these for the holidays. My family's going to absolutely love them. They look great. And, uh, it's just it's just nice to know you're out there doing your thing for as long as you've been doing it. Congratulations on building something great.

Thank, you., Thank, you., It's, been, my pleasure. We, could, keep, it, moving,, Mike., Why wouldn't we?

I, don't, think, there's, any, reason, not, to. All, right., Oh,, yeah., This, is, a, good, one. Crippling hot sauce. When life gives you lemons, make hot sauce. In a small Missouri town, Drew Davis did just that. Born with cerebral palsy, Drew started crippling hot sauce at 16 with $3,000, a folding table, and his grandmother's kitchen. What began as a high school project became a national movement selling over 500,000 bottles. This incredible feat is one built on family, faith, and the belief that strength comes in all forms. Every bottle is made and bottled here in America with bold original flavors like spicy bacon, special treatment, and salsa verde limping. Drew's determination has inspired millions proving that when you bet on yourself even the hottest challenges can turn into something extraordinary.

Yeah,, let, me, take, a, I, wouldn't, mind taking a little hit of this deal with it.

Yeah,, let's, crack, that, open. Get you a little gander. Get your little There, we, go.

Oh, yeah. No,, it's, got, a, wang, to, it. We, got, Drew, on, the, line., What's, up,, Drew Davis? How are you?

Good., How, about, you? We're, doing, great,, man., I, just accidentally drank a decent amount of your deal with it sauce, man.

That, [ __ ], will, give, you, the, runs. It, will? Well,, it's, good, to, know,, man., We, just started the show. The s the sauce gives you the runs better than I run.

Yeah,, dude. Yeah, you won't give anybody the runs huh? Yeah. When, did, you, get, it, into, your, head, to start making hot sauce?

So,, actually,, I, had, a, school, project., It was due in 2 days. I'm like, man, what am I going to do? And I look down. I look at myself. I'm like, it would be funny. I like making fun of myself and I like hot sauce. Let's present an idea called crippling hot sauce. So I close and I get the grade back. It's 82%. And as a person with cerebral palsy, my brain is the only thing that works 100% well on my body. So I kind of got mad. I was like I So I went up to the teacher and asked him why. I'm like, I've never gotten a grade this low. Why? Why this grade? He goes, "Oh, I thought it was a great idea. Just didn't think you could do it. Thought it was unrealistic." So I went home that day out of spite learned how to make hot sauce and and launched it and couple years later we've sold hundreds of thousands of bottles all while supporting people with disabilities along the way.

Let's, go. [ __ ], fantastic, dude., It, says, on, your box here that 5% goes to Cable Pauly Research for every sale. Is that right?

Yep., I'm, trying, to, fix, this, stuff. Oh,, hell, yeah,, dude., I, was, going, to, say I was going to recommend a chiropractor for you, but

yeah,, I, tried, that. Yeah,,, I, bet,, dude., Um,, Drew, it's it's exciting, man. Even just seeing you and feeling your energy dude. Uh, it just feels like the American spirit, you know, like, oh I'll find a way to get this done, right? I love that, man. And I love this I love this quote on the box. It's not the hot sauce that put me in the wheelchair. It's the cerebral pausy. bit on the nose, but you know

I, just, always, have, liked, making, fun, of myself. So, now that I get to monetize that, I couldn't ask for anything better.

What, makes, this, a, perfect, gift, for someone for the holidays? Man,, I, think, it, just, en, encompasses, like the true uh like our a lot of our humor and I think it does well. So, it's like a a gimmick product that tastes well but also does like like great for the for the disabled community, which is 1.3 billion strong in the in the world. Can you believe that?

Are, you, serious? 1.3, billion, wheelchairs, in, the, world. Wow, dude., Imagine, if, we, all, raced,, dude.

It'd, be, like, the, u not running. Yeah,, like, the, Yeah,, almost, like, the running of the bulls.

The, rolling, of, the, bulls., How, good, is the product? We are flavor first. None of them are are too terribly hot besides the ghost pepper pausy.

I, guess, specifically, for, about, cerebral pausy, do you feel like it's something that can be defeated one day? Like what do you think about that?

Yes,, I, do, think, so, because, the, what cerebral palsy is is it's brain damage to the cerebral cortex in your brain. So my brain doesn't get the right messages to my legs for them to work.

Oh, yeah., It's, like, 3G, wireless, or whatever. Yeah., My, my, braid, got, one, bar,, dude.

What, are, sales, like? We've, done, like, 2, and, a, half, million, um this year and um you know, still crippled,, but, at least, I, sell, hot, sauce.

Blessings, to, you,, bro., Happy, holidays, to you and uh and thanks for being so creative.

Thank, you, so, much, for, having, me,, guys. You, bet., Peace,, Drew. Thanks,, Drew. Bye-bye. Hot sauce. Oo. Are we going to take me out to the ball game?

What, What, do, you, got, here,, bud? Well,, what, we, have, here, is, maybe, maybe the best baseball glove ever made. These are Nakona baseball gloves. Nothing may be more American than baseball. And with this next product, once again we are going all American. Nakona baseball gloves from Nakona, Texas are a premium customizable Americanmade baseball glove worn by both young players and major leaguers alike. These gloves have been in iconic baseball movies, Field of Dreams A League of Their Own. You see them at ballparks all over the country.

America's pastime deserves American leather made on American soil. And when you visit their website, you will be treated to a grand slam of customizable options from sizes and colors to personalized engraving and stitching. Catch the holiday spirit this year with Nakona baseball gloves. That's Nakona baseball gloves.

Yeah,, that's, a, beautiful, piece, of, uh equipment huh? Did, you, ever, break, in, a, glove?

My, We, had, a, horrible, Whoa., They, put, my name on it. Look, at, that. Does, yours, have, Mike, on, it?, Yeah,, it does.

No,, I, know, uh, Nolan, Ryan, was, a, famous Nakona user. I remember that from growing up. 2026 is the 100redyear anniversary. For a hundred years they've been making these gloves right here in the USA. These are the top baseball glove maker in America. A great piece of art, which is what I would think of this glove as. You know, it's not just a baseball glove. It's a it is a love letter to everything we're talking about. Mh.

You, give, that, to, the, kid, and, you, make sure they they see the story and they understand what they're getting and they understand the company culture that made it

and, then, you, know, then, it's, more, than, a glove right? Yeah., Bob, Story, who, is, uh, the, founder, of Nakona Gloves. He um there's a famous quote by him. I'd rather take a bucket of worms and go fishing than import a Nakona glove.

Yeah. He, wanted, to, keep, it, Americanmade. Yeah., One, beautiful, thing, that, happened in World War II, they got a government contract to send gloves over to uh our over to soldiers. Yeah.

So, they, could, have, some, bit, of, something that felt American. That's pretty amazing. And those are the kind of stories I think when you get somebody a gift like this that you want to share right? It's like it's like so much of it. Yeah, you're right. It's not about the product. It's about the story right? It's about like a sense of tradition and a sense of why we do this and why you would think this glove's per perfect for somebody. What's your favorite baseball movie?

My, favorite, of, all, time, is, League, of Their Own. Why? Just, devout, lesbianism, hidden, behind, war and sports.

I, think, that's, right, off, their, poster. Some of the products that we're looking at have been around 100 years, right? Some of them are are almost institutional to the point where you can look back, see how they built it, and be inspired by it. And then some of them are first generation. and they're just getting started. And you know, I wouldn't put a value judgment honestly on on what's what's better or what's more important. It's the idea whether it's Bob Story who a 100 years ago, you know, says, "I'm going to do this the way I'm going to do it or whether it's the kid with, you know, Drew with cerebral pausy or the lady making the cherries."

I, remember, though, I, wasn't, good, at baseball, I remember that glove. I just I can remember exactly what it looked like. I'll never forget my first car first baseball glove, pocketk knife my granddad gave me. Some of that stuff matters.

Yeah. And, now, that, I, think, about, it,, they, they were all Americanmade products.

Yeah. Yeah., That's, the, thread. Yeah. That's, the, spirit., Whose, life, would change if you

if, you, present, them, with, a, glove, like this and Bob Sto's story. Yeah. Now, you, got, a, gift., Maybe, it's, not, your son or daughter. Maybe it's a niece. Maybe it's a nephew. Somebody loves baseball. Somebody's going to unwrap this and they're never going to forget it.

That's, an, American, dream, right, there. I want to thank Shopify for sponsoring this special Americanmade holiday gift episode. A lot of the brands we've been talking about today run on Shopify. Those are real people making real products trying to build something honest right here in the US. I remember I saw somebody was selling um uh glacier water melted. Get you a little half a jug of that or get you a quart or get you a little cup. They even even come in one of those little baby sippers. Shopify has always supported entrepreneurs from some of the largest corporations in the world to your favorite shop right down the street. And that's what I love about Shopify. It's the engine behind small shops, behind mom and pop garage dreams. Even in the in the craziness of of the holiday season shopping, Shopify gives the little guy a fair shot. So, if you want to join millions of hardworking men and

women that managed to create their American dream out of nothing, head to shopify.com/ Theo today. You've got the ideas and you've got the grit. Shopify has the knowhow to help turn that dream of yours into a future legacy. It can happen. You can do it. You know, we all hate buying clothes and after a week they're falling apart. You'll see something on the ground. It's like, "What is that?" It's part of your clothes. Dang. Your shirt broke down on the side of the road. Not with American Giant. If you listen to this podcast, you've probably heard me talk about American Giant before. They make high quality clothes and they make them right here in America. Right here. I bought a sweatshirt from them about a year and a half ago and I love it. It's one of my favorites. I bought a zip-up hoodie from them and um a really great black t-shirt as well. They were started more than 10 years ago by this guy named Bard

Winthrop who was fed up with everything feeling so cheap. I love knowing I'm supporting an Americanmade brand. Yep. I mean from from the cotton grown on American farms all the way through the finished product made entirely in the USA. I think an item from American Giant would make the perfect Christmas gift for the guy or girl in your life because it comes with a story. Tell them the story. And right now, you can shop at american-giant.com and get 20% off your first order with code Theo. Yep. You can shop at american-giant.com and get 20% off your first order with code Theo. And starting now throughout the holiday season, you can find links to all of these companies uh at theon.com/ameanoriginals.

One thing I wanted to share with you right here next is a company that I learned about about 10 years ago.

Mhm. Oddly, Sweet, Dolls., People collect all kinds of things from baseball cards to watches to rocks. So, this shouldn't be too crazy to hear. I collect oddly sweet dolls. That's a true story. For the last 10 years, I've been buying these dolls for my own collection, and sometimes I'll send one to a family member or friend. Oddly sweet dolls are created in the onewoman art studio of Miss Lacy Michelle, who hand sculpts every creepy cute doll straight from her home workshop. What began in 2009 as an experiment in sculpting faces what became a world of imperfect soulful characters. Each brought to life with humor heart and a touch of mischief. After surviving a brain tumor while 27 weeks pregnant Lacy turned creation into her therapy infusing every piece with gratitude and grit. Entirely Americanmade oddly sweet dolls stands for originality, resilience, and the beauty of imperfection. Proof that

even the strangest ideas can be oddly sweet. How, long, have, you, been, buying, these? Honestly

probably, about, one, decade., H how, many, do, you, own, personally? I, think, I, have, 11, but I've given some as gifts.

How, many, have, you, given, as, gifts? 15. Is, this, a, thing, you, talk, about, often, on the pod?

A, lot, of, people, don't, know, about, this. I, think, I, think, a, lot, of, people, are going to u run with this really. Th this feel maybe not like headline news, but it you're an open book. That's the that's the charm of you, man.

Just, the, eyes., Some, of, them, seem, like maybe they've been using or are in recovery. But I did love the fact a lot of them like some of them have a meat cleaver, a different knife. Just the fact that they're willing to work.

Millions, of, people, have, hundreds, of millions of dolls. Yeah., I, think, I, would, remember, going over certain friends homes and the some of their moms or stepmoms would have a doll room and he like this is where the dolls are. Oh dude, I just remember my friend I would sleep at his house. Dude his mom would if you got up to go pee in the, middle, of the, night,, she'd, make, the bed while you were up. She's very organized.

Was, this, the, same, you, were, telling, me about in the back of the car on the road trip?

Yeah., My, buddy, that, was, masturbating behind a map. His family was driving somewhere. He's pretending he's reading a map.

Yeah., and, he, was, touching, his, body behind it. What, do, you, I, mean,, what, do, you, get, a guy like that for Christmas? I mean, a bigger map maybe. I mean

there's, something, about, it, to, me, that's very much like even though something's messed up, there's still please find something endearing about me. And just the fact that Lacy Michelle

was, have, was, pregnant, and, is, dealing with a brain tumor at the same time, you know, that has to be like fear and hope at the same time. So much going on.

See,, that, that's, interesting, because, you know if you have fear and hope in the same feeling, then you can also have creepy and cute on the same face.

For, sure., When, you, accidentally, get, your uh your ba your uh sonogram picture mixed up with your tum with your with your MRI scan, you know, and you're showing somebody the baby and like that's the baby. It's it's where is it? It's, by, your, brain., You, know what, I'm saying? But just the whole ambiance of that is absolutely kind of wild. But that's the stuff that people go through and that's the stuff where creativity comes out of. I really believe that kind of thing. Yeah. And uh and here we are. I'm inspire I'm inspired by her story.

To have two things growing inside you at the same time and one of them's really good and one of them is really bad.

Right. The, fact, that, she, makes, each, one, of these, it's pretty fascinating.

I, mean, the, attention, to, detail, on, them. Yeah., No,, it's, great., It's, great.

And, I, do, know, it's, a, limited, item., This item she'll probably only have maybe 150 to 200. So, if you do go to her site and she's sold out, then that's awesome right? Um, and you can go back next year. And these are out of Salt Lake City as well. I want to say you've been there. It's a beautiful area. It's very nice. If you haven't been there, it's beautiful.

It, is, gorgeous. It's, beautiful. Do, you, know, why, some, of, the, heads, are are severed?

So,, you, don't, have, time, for, a, statue. I, don't, have, time, for, a, statue.

There, you, go., This, is, an, ornament for, a, Christmas, tree. Yep., You, could, hang, it, on, a, maple., You could hang it on a friend that's not moving much.

Sure., How, have, your, friends, reacted?, who have received one of these gifts from you.

I, think, they're, excited, about, it., Some people are afraid to display the truth though.

Yeah. And, I, think, that's, what, these, things, are doing. And, it, just, shows, you, like, this, is, neat to me to somebody else that may not be but there's probably a ton of other creators who are making really neat stuff and can like you can have a whole business. This the fact that Lacy Michelle does this and has an entire business built around it. The fact that she's going to be able to fulfill 150 to 200 orders for Christmas gifts this year, dude, that's to me it's fascinating man.

Is, there, someone, in, your, life, that, has something going on just below the surface? Something they may not be keen to talk about casually in polite company, but something that nevertheless needs to be tapped into. Maybe, just maybe, a doll like this is exactly what they've been waiting to receive. They just don't know it yet. And they won't until Christmas morning when they unwrap it and the universe suddenly starts to make sense for the first time.

Amen. There's, been, some, neat, stuff,, man. Thanks so much for uh Hey,, kid. Onward., This, is, from, our, friends, at Scraggly Bush. A truly unforgettable American original where Deep from Papon, Nebraska, a husband and wife have turned laughter and hard work into a true American dream. Craig and Carly Summit founded Scraggly Bush. After Craig's high school trapping hobby and a gag wedding gift the Fur Squallet, also known as a squirrel wallet, sparked a wild idea. With a COVID stimulus check and a lot of faith, they began sewing fur goods by hand in their home workshop.

Today, their creations include racoo's possum packs, even satin lined squallets. They're shipped nationwide. They're made from ethically sourced American furs, and they're named after Craig's late best friend. Scraggly Bush is more than a business. It's a tribute to friendship, laughter, and the power of the American spirit to turn even the wildest idea into something worth hoarding. So, this is a squirrel, or it was this was an actual squirrel.

And, uh, maybe, it, was, hunted,, maybe, it, was found. I I I don't I don't know the etmology, but I know it was a real squirrel.

You, can, get, them, pretty, easy, but, now, it, has, a, zipper, uh, where, its abdomen used to be and satin lined interior.

Oh,, is, that, satin, in, there? Yeah., Mhm. Yep. Oh,, that, is, nice., Wow., Yeah,, very, nice. Keep some pills in there. Keep whatever you want in there.

Car, keys,, pair, of, glasses, the, aforementioned pills, whatever. Medication, whatever it is.

Medication., We, could, say, jelly, beans, whatever you want in there. Sure. Um,, and, squirrels, are, notorious, for hoarding and hiding things anyway. So they're still getting to live the life they want

right?, You, could, actually without, all, the, hassle, of, being, alive, you, know.

Sure., Sure., I, mean,, what, about, nuts? That's the ultimate irony. Oh,, if, you, popped, that, [ __ ], up, and, had some cashews in it, dude. Right.

I'd, be, the, happiest, guy, in, the, world. The squallet right there. And that's for males and females.

Sure., And, you've, got, a, little, uh, like, a carabiner right here. Right. So, you can clip it, I guess, to your I your belt loop, maybe. One beautiful thing about this company is that it they received a COVID stimulus check and created something from it. Right? This company makes $250,000 a year. All fur is sourced and harvested from American hunters. There are no farmed furs. This is straight out of God's refrigerator the forest. And there's also the racooi right here. If you get tired of drinking out of a squeeze, you got that racooi baby. And it's more this a little thicker fur.

And, that's, this, is, from, a, raccoon,, a raccoon body. That's where this hide is from. Nice insides. It's dry. Beautiful tail. You want to let a kid play with the tail while you stand there and drink at regular level? If you got a son and wants to bat that tail around while you're drinking here at human level. If I see somebody drinking out of that

you, don't, ignore, it. I, mean,, what, baby, girl, ain't, going, to want that squallet?

Think, of, the, story, you're, going, to, have. Condoms, in, that, thing,, too., In, high school,

you've, got, Astroglide., You've, got, birth control. You could have mint, gum., Mint, gum, and, aromatherapy candle. You can outfit this squirrel. Men, you want to improve your odds in a rough and tumble, unpredictable dating world. Hollow out that squirrel and never take it off your belt.

Look,, I, got, to, work, early, tomorrow,, but I'm in. You know that's Scraggly Bush. That's their company right there. And we can go support them. Thank them so much for their creativity.

Yeah,, man., Why, settle, for, a, bush, when you can have a scraggly one? Let's, keep, it, moving,, man., One, of, the things that I'm inspired by is the way that people use things in their area, you know?

Yep. And, one, of, the, best, stories, that, I've heard about that turning something kind of a negative into a positive is with the Albezia project under the Hawaiian sun where the trade winds rustle through wild forests. A once destructive tree has found new life. The Albzia project transforms Hawaii's most invasive wood into stunning handcrafted cutting boards that help restore the island's native forests. Husband and wife founders Joey Valente and Christine Johnson, alongside their team hunt Albizia trees and turn them into heirlooms made entirely on Aahu. From their Wahwa workshop and cafe they are building strong community, one cup of coffee and one cutting board at a time. They make a few legendary surfboards out there as well out of Albizia. Also, this holiday season give something with true aloha. Proof that even the most invasive species can be transformed into something regenerative, enduring, and proudly

American. Look at that, man. It's just amazing that they Ooh. Pick that up. Yeah., Oo., Lighter, than, you, think.

Yep. But, stronger, than, you, know. Gosh. Yeah., [snorts] New, wood, smell. Yeah., Smells, great,, man., Imagine, you walk into somewhere and they got a couple onions cut up on that thing. Baby boy, couple of carrots.

It, It's, a, hard, yet, light, wood. Hard, and, light., Surprising, boy. I, can't, think, of, of, a, better, combination for everything you would want in a cutting board.

Hawaii, tourism, plummeted, during, CO., So, they got a $250,000 US Forest Service grant to launch the company. Wow.

Yeah., I, think, the, invasive, species, thing is is is fascinating. You've got to be very careful with what you introduce into a into an environment.

Oh,, it's, like, bringing, someone, horrible home for the holidays to meet your parents.

That's, an, invasive, species, at, large. Something, you're, not, going, to, have, with this. One of the beautiful things about this is then not only you creating a gift, you're giving a gift to mother nature too

because, you're, getting, bad, things, out, of the forest. But, the, other, thing,, too,, it's, like, it's super personal. like that specific piece of wood gets traced back to a specific tree. It gets traced back to the specific person who cut it. That's what these guys do. They they knew where it grew. They knew who cut it. And it's only possible through uh what they would call a super localized domestic supply chain.

Wow. So,, it's, like,, yeah,, if, you, need, a cutting board, you can go to any retailer and you can buy any cutting board and now there's a piece of wood in your kitchen and that's it. You use it till you don't use it anymore and whatever. But that's not the Albizia project brother.

No, that's, not, cleaning, up, Hawaii, keeping, it, natural. Yeah. Which, uh, is, one, of the, most, greatest gifts that we get in the world is nature.

It's, a, big, one. And, it's, a, familyun, business., Who, would this be a good gift for? Obviously, a mom would love this, especially with the story. Like, mom, you're one of the things. Or mom, remember when you tried to marry that guy? He was an invasive species. Glad we don't have him.

Look,, whatever, it, is,, I, mean,, look,, it, I I Donnie, or, whatever, his, name, was., gone.

You, could, use, it, as, a, small, shakuerie board, as, well, if, you, want to, put, you, a little summer saltage, a little bit of winter meat.

You, can, do, that, and, [clears throat], use this one as a um as a makeshift paddle.

Mhm. Not, saying, you, should, or, shouldn't,, but I'm, not, saying, you, shouldn't.

I, I, would, definitely, paddle, some, kids, if they let you paddle someone else's kids. I'd run across the street right now and

No,, don't. Yeah,, you're, right., You, could, not, use one of these to surf on. But they do make surfboards. They make lamps. Um they make a plethora of different options. Without busy, you can check it out. Imagine you want to cut something. What you going to cut it on? Your counter?

No. No., Your, friend's, back., A, strong, friend. Possible,, but, no. Get, a, cutting, board

from, an, invasive, species. Yeah. That's, been, repurposed, and, reimagined into something truly useful.

That's, what, I'm, talking, about., It's, like uh going to a um detox center for wood. You go in somewhat misplaced and not necessarily welcomed in the world you find yourself, but you come out repurposed, reshaped, reinvigorated and who knows, one day regifted. Yeah.

A lot of guys out there, they don't know what's going on, right? and they're lonesome or whatever. I will tell, you this, one,, if, you, have, those types of feelings, sometimes thing you can do is blaze up a tit in your room like this.

These, are, um, these, are, candle, tits., Uh they're made in this country. Let me pop off that a cup for you, homie.

Come, straight, out, of, Chicago., Candle, Tit proves that light and laughter can come from the most unexpected of places. Founded by an artist named Bailey, this onewoman brand handcasts every candle from real bodies to celebrate shape, self-love, and good humor. Each piece is made from locally sourced wax poured and finished by hand. Some come for the fun, others for farewell, a keepsake made before surgery, helping them see their body with tenderness instead of fear. M what started as a bold art experiment is now a movement that supports breast cancer survivors and anyone learning to appreciate one of God's yearround holiday treats during this festive season. Skip the vanilla jar candle and motorboat yourself over to candlelett.com.

Handmade in Chicago because nothing warms a room like compassion confidence, and a perfect pair of wicks. A thick tit will keep you warm, homie. I know that. That's why a tit's got two sides on it. One for each hand. Brother

who, am, I, to, disagree?, Why, Why, aren't these lit? You, can, pop, blaze, one, up., I, didn't, know you wanted them all lit. Freak. It's almost more like a time capsule in a way for people that are going to go through um possible adjustments to their bodies. You know, people that could be dealing with breast cancer or breast removal something like that. to have a keepsake to have a fun kind of almost a time capsule way. You lock that tit in forever with these blazers, you know?

Sure. And, you, spark, one, of, these, things, up, at a campfire. It's going to be a great story. Who don't like talking tit with their buddies or their family? You, know what?, My, sister, and, I, have never even talked about tits, but I spark one of these up. Who knows what's what can happen. I mean, this is an American doing something creative, doing something cool. You guys can check it out. You just we sparked up five of them right now. Right there you got an A cup. I was breastfed on an A cup. And h it's harrowing to see a You ever watch a baby try to get milk out of an A cup, too?

I, have. Oh,, it's, harrowing. I've, seen, it., Like, he's, beating, on, a, drum, trying

Oh,, it, was, I, felt, bad, for, the, kid. It's, horrible. 17. Yeah., And, Oh, the, kid, was, me.

Oh,, well,, damn., That's, uh, on, Okay. I want to tell you about this. All right.

So,, we, had, a, show, in, Casper,, Wyoming., I get back to my room and somebody had got me a little box of Donell's candies.

The, people, are, so, sweet. And, I, didn't, know, if, I, wanted, it, or, not. I was like, "What is this?" And I cracked it open, dude. And this is, I kid you not, the best toffee I've ever had in my life.

And, their, their, their, place, was, just, a few blocks from us. Uh-huh. And, so, I, had, to, get, loaded, up, on, it., I got me some McDonald's. I ate my whole box in one night. Couldn't even sleep. I want to tell you a little bit about it. These candies have been curated by the Steppp family since 1956 when Don and Elma Steppp opened their little shop on St. Patrick's Day. And for nearly 70 years, their family has handcrafted toffes, chocolates, caramels, and other sweets using the same original recipes and copper kettles.

Three generations later, every batch still carries that small town pride and patience. So this season, skip the [ __ ] French truffle or that Chinese-made Laffy Tappe and give the gift of truly Americanmade sweetness. Donell's Candies, where holiday tradition tastes better when it's American. And every piece going to make you holla for joy and slap your cousin. It's good. If you hate your cousin

Yeah., [ __ ], put, two, pieces, of, this, in and, go, whoop, his, ass., You, know what, I'm saying? But it's good, man. It just [snorts] there was something perfect about it for me. And I'm gonna try one more of their candies live right here. I've never even tried it. Darnell's candies. Almond brittle. Never had almond brittle.

Well,, his, mouth, is, full., I'll, tell, you, three generations strong. What started with Don Elma and their son Mike now includes grandson Ryan. They're still crafting candies by hand 70 years later. And if that doesn't make your mouth water, my friend, I don't know what will. Dear God, it's good. This is beautiful. I can't recommend it enough. It's an American company. Will support them. They got a great website. They can fulfill a lot of orders. They'll let you know when they can't, but I don't think you can go wrong supporting such a such a company like Don L's can candies. [snorts] I couldn't even close my eyes. I had so much toffee that one night. They wouldn't close because of the pressure.

But it was good. The pressure. I know some of these products we were asking around to some of our friends to see if they recommended any in their area. And my friend uh Kate Thornton wanted to recommend a domestic company in her area. So, I thought we'd see if she could help. Can you hear us Kate?

I, can. Oh,, it, looks, nice, out, there., What's going on out there? This, is, my, real, backdrop., Can, you believe that?

Seriously,, that's, not, AI, cake. This, is, not, AI., That's, Whitest, Stone Mountain and this is Whitest Stone Mountain Orchards that is sending you some fruit and Hal and Claire, they're the ones running that orchard and they do an excellent job like through and through.

Thank, you, so, much,, Kate,, for recommending, one, of your, neighbors., Um, can you tell us how often do you guys harvest apples?

We, start, harvesting, pears, in, mid, August and then start working our way through apples all the way up until now. Usually it goes into November, but it's a pretty long season, so we're all kind of cranky at the end of it. But it's a beautiful day, so what's what's to be mad about?

How, many, kinds, of, apples, are, there? Well,, there's, at least, 30, on, the commercial market, but there's over 7,000 different varieties worldwide.

I, told, you., I, told, you, there, more, than you think. There are a lot of apples.

Who's, keeping, them?, How, do, we, get, more of them? Well,, I, mean,, you, got, the, Granny, Smith, you got the Golden Delicious

Cosmic, Crisp., That's, my, favorite. That's, three., All, right., So,, there's 6,997 more. That's a lot of apples, man. What are these apples here?

And, how, do, you, like, them? Huh?, Right,, Kate? Yeah,, I've, heard, that, one, before.

I, bet, you, did. Whitest, Stone, Mountain, Orchard., This, uh card says, "Uh, thank you for your order and for supporting small family-owned farms. Your apples include uh an American heirloom from the 1800s and a new variety. Remember to ripen your pears by leaving them out at room temperature for several days.

How, do, you, know, her, again? I, know, Kate., Well,, we, met, just, online, but then she came to our comedy show and then we went and saw a concert together one time, I think. I can't remember exactly.

Oh,, we, went, for, a, walk, somewhere. Remember? We, went, to, Yeah,, we, went, for, a, walk, in the park with Zita.

Yeah., Yeah., But, yeah,, we, know, each other. What does it even matter? I was like, "This lady's got some nice fruit." Um, defin Yeah, I'd like to learn more about it. That was it. Dude, it's good people. Mike, what is your problem?

I, don't, have, a, problem, with, it., I'm trying to celebrate the fact that you're still curious enough to go on the Instagram, look around, and find a a a fruit a picture of fruit.

It's, called, stalking, people,, Mike,, and lurking. But, thanks, for, highlighting, that., Yes. But I picked a good person this time because, Kate's, one, of the, best, and, she just spends so much time like in the community with farmers, learning about farming, working on her own farm, all types of stuff. She's just constantly if you watch her social media, it's just it's a it's always a good time.

I, think, it's, a, Christmas, miracle, Kate, and I appreciate you being part of it.

Well,, thank, you., This, is, my, absolute passion. My family's been doing this for a long time, so it's it's a privilege to be able to highlight even if it's not my family, but other families that do this. So, thank you.

I, love, this, fruit., This, is, great, if, you want to uh have a nice story to tell your family and get them some fruit. Um that's American grown and it's not one of the big vendors. It's uh more of a mom and pop organization. Is it Kate?

Yes,, it's, absolutely, like, familyun., They You can learn all about them on their website. They do a great job of like explaining everything.

I, love, it., That's, Claire, and, Hal, right there. Let's zoom in a little bit so we can see the good people that are there and that work there. Oh, that's awesome. I like them apples.

That's, my, kind, of, area., Yeah., Uh, Kate, thank you so much for highlighting them and uh and for just being a part of this um holiday gift show.

Well,, I, adore, you, both., So,, let, me, know if I can help any in any way. Appreciate, it., Have, a, good, day.

All, right., Bye,, you, guys. See, you. Bye,, Kate., That, was, Whit, Stone, Mountain Orchard established in 1993. Mike, I do want to let you know sometimes it's nice to have something in your mouth. You know it.

Well,, sure. And, Olympia, Provisions, is, our, next company that we're going to feature. There's an old saying where I'm from and it's that American meat is the real good kind of meat.

And, where, you, from, again?, It's Louisiana right? From, Louisiana., Yeah. That's, what, they, say, down, there.

That's, what, people, were, saying, that, to each other. Some people even wrote it down. And here we got some of the best all the way from Portland, Oregon. This is not just made in America. It's independently owned by its founder Elias Cairo, who first discovered his passion for cured meats when on an apprentice ship in Switzerland. Upon returning home, he perfected a curing process that has seen the company grow to a team of 150 that crafts tens of thousands of pounds of cured meats every week. Their secret? No automation, no gimmicks, just skill time, and care. What do you got Mikey?

Well,, this, appears, to, be, a, summer sausage. Yes., Bet, you, found, that, in, my grandmother's drawer, huh? Get that meat out Whitey.

This, is, good,, huh? It's, delicious. Salami, with, red, wine, and, fennel. Really?

Have, to, text, my, sponsor,, but, I'll, have, a little cut of it. Why don't you chop into that bad boy for us right there? Lukano Greek inspired sausage with garlic, oregano, and lemon zest. Three fully cooked sausages right here. God that looks good, Michael. And they don't just have these. They have dog treats as well. If your dog gets jealous, cuz every time, you know, when you crack open your meat, your dog comes around he's a bum. He ain't been doing [ __ ] all day, but he pulls up to get your [ __ ] give him a dog treat right there from Olympia Provisions. Pure pork. These guys are slanging meat.

What, a, perfect, stocking, stuffer. Mhm. It's, It's, already, been, stuffed., Olympia provisions, guys. That's cured meats. You want something that's Americanmade. It's been sourced from America for a long time. You want to put together a shakureri board. You want to get somebody some summer sausage that's right here in America. Cured and taste. That's the best hasting I've ever had. I think

you're, a, belt, guy, or, a, suspenders, guy. I've, never, worn, suspenders, except for once for Halloween. Good day. Right. Like something you could snap with enthusiasm.

It, was, like, having, a, cup, of, coffee without having one. That snap would get you going, dude. Hitting you right in the nipples. You have to walk back into work.

Cala, Tool, Works., Deep, in, the, woods, of John's Island, South Carolina, Michael Williams ditched corporate life to do something truly uplifting. Make belts by hand. Welcome to Cala Toolworks, a small batch leather shop with a cult-like following and zero interest in outsourcing overseas. Zero interest. Every single Calavera belt is cut and stitched and finished from American raised leather and solid US hardware. These aren't just belts, Theo they're heirlooms. This holiday season skip the tie and give this handsome gift that could literally hold up Santa's britches after power munching through a stocking full of cookies.

Handmade on John's Island, tough as a $2 Christmas steak on New Year's Eve, and built to outlast the Christmas dinner politics.

God,, that's, a, belt, right, there,, huh?, If somebody spanked me with that, I would get my act together. All my dad had to do was walk in the room and go.

Never, never, had, to, use, it. Oh, yeah. Straightens, you, right, up. I, want to, go, right, now, to, a, testimonial

from, Jackson. Yeah., Let's, hear, from, him., What, does, he have to say about these Cala Vera belts?

Hi, folks., I, recommend, Cala, belts, and, um tool belts. Um they're really well made. This one holds up to all my farm uses and jobs. So, go check out Cala Belts.

You, heard, it. Here's, a, sentence, I've, never, said before, but this is a belt you can pass down to your loved ones.

Amen. Well,, it'll, grow, with, you., It'll, shrink with you, but it'll never let you down. And it'll always keep your pants up.

Amen. Yeah., I've, never, had, any, goose,, man., I'm trying to think of something nice that I've had around the holidays. Maybe a turkey. A ham.

Oh,, yeah. A, good, Christmas, ham. God,, yeah,, buddy. Yeah,, I've, liked, a, good, ham., I, like, the way it looks.

Well,, there's, no, reason, to, put, a, ham, in one of these, but you want to jump into one of these right now?

Yeah,, I'd, love, to, see., What, do, you, have here? This, a, Dutch, oven. Oo, strap in.

Okay., Yeah,, dude., Let, me, out, of, the covers, brother. Tell me more. Smithy, Iron, Wear,, down, in Charleston, South Carolina. There's a workshop where the holidays smell like cast iron and cornbread. And that's where Isaac Morton started smithy Iron Wear, restoring old skillets before deciding to make his own. Each piece crafted by hand, polished to a mirror finish, and built to last for generations. Today, every single smithy skillet and carbon steel pan is made from 100% recycled American iron. Poured and polished in an old naval base turned foundry. They are as beautiful as they are tough kitchen heirlooms meant to be passed down, not tossed out. So if you're looking for a gift that says forever, forget the foreignade gadgets and give the skillet that could cook an all-American Christmas breakfast for your grandkids one day.

I, love, that, having, grand, peppy, skillet. Oh, that's a heavy deal there, man. That has some real weight to it. Look at I mean that's a good you know 7 8 lbs.

That's, beautiful. It's, solid, as, can, be., It, will, it, it'll simply never wear out.

Yeah., Anything, in, there, will, taste, good. I, mean, like, a, like, a, what?, Like, a, uh like a lamb stew.

A, beef, stew. Put, some, beef, carrots, in., Put, it, on, a low heat. It's, not, a, classic, Christmas, meal,, but what a what a I mean the smell, man.

When, you, walked, into, your, house, growing up and you smelled food, what is the smell you most remember? I'll say maybe mom, would, make, a, little bit, of, a, holiday jumbolaya in there.

Oh,, that's, nice., See,, that's, festive, and at the same time demographically authentic to where you come from.

God,, if, I, eat, I, could, have, probably, one egg out of that and probably make me something good.

You, get, a, big, You, get, an, ostrich, egg. You ever see an ostrich egg? Nah.

God. I'm, no, pervert,, brother. [sighs and gasps] But, I'll, eat, a, nice, egg, out, of, that, and go get out in the world. Find me a job. Find me a wife.

Made, from, 100%, recycled, American, iron. Look at that. Look at them working on it right there. Building a handle at doing all the work so you don't have to. All you got to do is cook you up something. Make your daddy something. Your daddy won't talk to you. Make him something.

Grandma looking for a new hobby. Hey Grandma. Or do you have a creepy uncle who needs a woodsy cabin activity? Huh? Who [snorts] is it? Or maybe just a fun tradition for you and the kiddos. Heart puzzles are gorgeous Americanmade gifts right out of central Indiana.

Puzzles, will, keep, you, sharp. Yeah, I, I, do, love, the, puzzles., I, can't, get enough of them.

Oh,, I, love, them,, dude., I, sit, there., I'll sit there with my stepdad. He likes to make puzzles. He made a bunch and put them on the walls at home. [snorts]

He, framed, them. Yeah,, he, framed, them. Like, a, jigsaw, puzzle, and, then, you, frame it. You put it up.

Yeah, why, not?, But, he, loves, doing, it., It's, fun to sit there together. You know, he's like, "Hey, can you help me find the pieces? I can't find them. He's lying. He's just trying to spend time with me." But it's nice. It's beautiful. Shout out Rhett. I enjoy doing that with you. If you want to get somebody a puzzle, why just pick one up off the shelf from some company you don't even know, get one that's made by one of your fellow Americans.

These, are, great, little, ornaments, and gifts, Mike, right here. Prodigal pottery.

There's, a, ministry, out, of, central Alabama called King's Home who is doing the Lord's good work by serving women and children fleeing domestic violence homelessness, and trafficking. That's heavy, but it's happening. Uh through custommade mugs, bowls, and Christmas ornaments with their self-made business Prodigal Pottery. These amazing women are turning ceramics into salvation. God bless us all, but especially these women at King's Home. Oh, come all ye faithful. Theo.

Wow. It's, a, great, way, to, support, everybody. Well,, they, make, things, like, this beautiful sheep right here. Look at this sheep Mike.

That's, a, good, looking, lamb. Yeah,, I, meant, lamb. Well,, I, mean,, I'm, just, thinking,, you know, the lamb of God.

Oh,, yeah., Is, a, lamb, a, sheep? Uh,, yeah., Yeah., They, make, Christmas ornaments, mugs, candles, soap dishes and bowls. One thing that I think is pretty special is last night, Jenna, who is the current director. Uh drove three hours up here to bring us ornaments from them. And we have a video right now uh that she sent.

Prodal, Pottery, is, very, personal, for, me as it gave me my life back. But this isn't just about me. It's about the hundreds of women who have walked through the door hopeless, beaten, and not sure if they were going to live to see another day. And I get the privilege to watch women find hope and the lights come back on in their eyes and watch them regain their lives back. I get to watch women get their children back, to buy their first cars, to buy their first houses, things that we think we were never going to achieve. And only through the dignified work and the safety of prodical pottery were these women able to just heal.

Well,, thank, you,, Jenna., Thanks, so, much for bringing them. I'm glad that we could uh talk about them. And yeah, this is great. You can go in here, buy buy one item, and tell the story when you give it away to somebody.

Yeah. Thanks, Mike, so much for for for helping out and just for inspiring um I think this whole energy just like and reminding us about America that it's a thing. We interviewed Ken Burns recently and he does a lot of the documentaries and he talked about the American Revolution and he's like it's not that America got started and it's just going to be that way forever. It's like you have to keep America America. It's this malleable thing that's constantly evolving that can it can come or go, you know, but the only thing that keeps it going is um is is us. If we really want to celebrate the people who are making stuff here, whether it's an ornament or an axe we got to support them.

Yeah., Stuff, like, this, is, important, to me. You know, I think some people think that, you know [clears throat and snorts], America, this or America that, but in the end, America is just us. It's us and it's how we like operate and how we choose to operate. And if we can choose to buy something from our neighbor

then we, win., Dude,, I, learned, so, many, stories of so many different groups today.

It, was, great., I, mean,, the, guys, chopping down trees that are bad and turning them into uh wood that we can use for products, you know, knowing that Nakona Gloves sent their gloves over to people in World War II so that those guys could have a respit from the nightmare to throw a baseball back and forth for a few

and, do, something, that, feels, like, home. Yeah., when, they're, on, the, other, side, of the world.

There's, a, family, that's, challenging like, you know, sure you could buy uh fruit from some of these companies that have been doing it for hundreds of years and stuff, but you could also get it from a company that's been doing it for 15 or 20 years that that has five people working at it that can ship them out. You know, it's like there's just different options out there and sometimes some of those options don't get as much advertising or don't get the word out there. So, yeah. And if you see something that you guys like, uh just let us know in the comments. Um, and if we couldn't feature you one of your products and we'd spoken to you, uh we're really sorry about that. Some of it just became time. Like, we thought this would take a few hours and, uh we've been here for probably 12 hours which is, it's okay, you know, it's just, but it is a it's a long day and so we tried our best. Um, and I know that

you tried your best, too. Everybody, we, introduced, you, to,, though, has a has a spirit that we admire. That's Christmas.

Yeah. Ho, ho, ho. Uh, happy holidays, Mike. Happy, holidays,, Theo. I'm, falling, like, these, leaves., I must be corner stone. Oh, but when I reach that ground, I'll share this piece of mind I found. I can feel it in my , bones, but it's going to take

Questions about this episode

Who speaks in "American Holiday Gift Guide w/ Mike Rowe"?

Theo Von (Host), Mike Rowe (Guest), Pam Montgomery (Guest), Drew Davis (Guest), Tim (Guest), Kate Thornton (Guest), Jackson (Guest), Jenna (Guest).

What is "American Holiday Gift Guide w/ Mike Rowe" about?

The discussion focuses on promoting American-made products as meaningful holiday gifts, emphasizing the importance of supporting local manufacturing and communities. Guest Mike Rowe highlights the benefits of giving gifts that not only serve the recipient but also contribute to the American economy and the well-being of fellow citizens.

What is mentioned in this Theo Von episode?

73 people, works and ideas are mentioned, including Nokona, Albizia (tree), Nokona baseball gloves, Invasive species, Sullivan gloves, Chukar Cherries. Each one on this page links to its own page with every episode that mentions it.

How long is "American Holiday Gift Guide w/ Mike Rowe"?

The episode runs 1 h 6 min; the transcript is about 12,133 words in 269 timestamped sections.

More from Theo Von

About this transcript: the episode's spoken words as captioned on YouTube, split into timestamped sections. Reclip.Me locates every person, work and idea in the text, keeps the time it is first named, and quotes the words around it verbatim. Last updated January 24, 2026.