The Executive Producer for this episode is Spunky Cheek Someone has spring fever! To celebrate the very first day of spring please enjoy this extra episode! Chris Hasler swings by The Prairie Studios to record one of the most unforgettable episodes! “Nels finally loses patience with his henpecked family life and begins a mobile merchant business. During one of his stops, he meets a much younger woman whom is the exact opposite of his own wife. In the process, Nels struggles with temptation and g...
Mar 24, 20220•Ep. 176
The Executive Producer for this episode is Gini Comer Marissa Baker returns to the show to discuss this strange episode with is rich with ferns! “Laura needs something to fill some time so Almanzo tells her about a book writing contest. He convinces her to write her stories down that she told him about growing up. She travels to Minneapolis to work with a publisher but they want to make too many changes to book.” Once Upon a Time originally aired on January 24, 1983 The opening song “Albert” is ...
Mar 22, 20220•Ep. 175
The Executive Producer for this episode is Aaron Wortman He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not is a very important 2 parter in the world of Little House which is why I invited Kelly Mielke from the Dr. QuinnCast Podcast to join me to discuss. “The relationships between Almanzo and Laura, and Percival and Nellie continue to be explored in the second half of the sixth-season finale.” He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not Part 2 originally aired on May 12, 1980 The opening song “Albert” is written and performed by t...
Mar 17, 20220•Ep. 174
The Executive Producer for this episode is Dana Wilkins He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not is a very important 2 parter in the world of Little House which is why I invited Kelly Mielke from the Dr. QuinnCast Podcast to join me to discuss. Part 2 will be released on Thursday! “The romantic futures of longtime rivals Laura and Nellie take shape in the sixth season finale. First, Almanzo proposes to Laura, but Charles says that the marriage is on hold until Laura’s 18th birthday. When Laura decides to ho...
Mar 15, 20220•Ep. 174
The Executive Producer for this episode is Kelly Mielke Matilda Smith-Thompson joins me to discuss Author, Author! We talk about so much and I hope you enjoy this episode! “During a trip to Walnut Grove, Caroline’s mother passes away. Her father is very grief-stricken, until son-in-law Charles – impressed with his stories about growing up in the Little House in the Big Woods – suggests he publish an autobiography.” Author, Author originally aired on November 26, 1979 The opening song “Albert” is...
Mar 08, 20220•Ep. 173
The Executive Producer for this episode of Walnut GroveCast is Anne Quinn Stephanie Bailey returns to the show to discuss one of Mark’s favorite episodes! We discuss so much! “Aging circus daredevil Gambini the Great has a hypnotic effect on the children of Walnut Grove, especially Albert and Willie. A tragedy during one of Gambini’s stunts will provide a chilling lesson in hero worship.” Gambini, the Great originally aired on November 9, 1981 The opening song “Albert” is written and performed b...
Mar 01, 20220•Ep. 172
The Executive Producer for this episode of Walnut GroveCast is Megan Parker Suzann Holland returns to the show to discuss this unforgettable episode! In this one we get the adorable Peter Billingsley as a boy with a speech impediment. “James’ promising friendship with a young stuttering boy named Gideon Hale is jeopardized when he mocks the boy behind his back. When a devastated Gideon runs away, Caroline assists the boys’ parents in a frantic search for the young boy, while Charles and a remors...
Feb 22, 20220•Ep. 171
The Executive Producer for this episode is Jeff Griffin I am joined by Cheyenne Hampton to discuss this sad, uplifting and unforgettable episode! “An immigrant family provides an example of thankfulness and a reminder that freedom isn’t free after a property tax increase leaves most of Walnut Grove in no mood to celebrate the United States’ 100th birthday.” Centennial originally aired on March 17, 1976 I hope you enjoy this episode half as much as I enjoyed recording it! Want to hear more from M...
Feb 14, 20220•Ep. 170
The Executive Producer for this episode of Walnut GroveCast is Susan King Kelly Mielke takes a break from recording Dr. QuinnCast and writing The Prairie Review to join me in a discussion about Mortal Mission! “Charles and Jonathan meet with danger as deadly as the disease they left behind them when they are sent for the medical supplies needed to battle an outbreak of anthrax in Walnut Grove.” Mortal Mission originally aired on March 12, 1979 Want to hear more from Kelly and Mark? Check out our...
Feb 07, 20220•Ep. 169
The Executive Producer for this episode of Walnut GroveCast is Saya Ishida Patrick Labyorteaux returns to the show to review his favorite episode of Little House on the Prairie! Patrick talks about his memories from the set and this episode in particular. We go for nearly 2 hours! I hope you enjoy this conversation nearly as much as I did! “While their fathers secretly trail them, young Albert Ingalls and Andy Garvey set off to prove their mettle as men by accepting a challenge to live by their ...
Feb 03, 20220•Ep. 168
The Executive Producer for this episode of Walnut GroveCast is Suzann Holland Brandon Letulier joins me to discuss this shocking and unforgettable episode! “Charles travels to Chicago to console his old friend Isaiah Edwards when the man’s young son is killed in an accident.” Chicago originally aired on November 23, 1981 Learn all about Pamela’s web series, Living’ on a Prairie here https://livinonaprairietv.com The opening song “Albert” is written and performed by the amazing Norwegian band, Pr...
Feb 01, 20220•Ep. 167
The Executive Producer for this episode of Walnut GroveCast is Chantelle Dubois Nishiyama Lydia Kikuchi returns to the show from 17,000 KM (or 10563.31 miles) away to discuss this very memorable episode! “Trying to convince Tom Carlin, blinded by a childhood bout with the measles, that he can lead a productive life, Adam Kendall battles Tom’s bitter, skeptical father and is unexpectedly aided by the underdog Winoka Warriors, who have just lost their star player to a rival football team.” The Win...
Jan 25, 20220•Ep. 166
Starting the year with a cast member interview! Patrick Labyorteaux AKA Andy Garvey visits Walnut GroveCast to talk about his memories of Little House on the Prairie as well as his career. We discuss so much such as: What was Patrick’s Audition like? What was it like working as Andy Garvey on the Little House set? What’s next for Patrick? check what Patrick has been up to you can visit his website at: https://www.workingactorsschool.com Learn all about Pamela’s web series, Living’ on a Prairie h...
Jan 18, 20220•Ep. 165
I was so pleased when Pamela Bob agreed to come onto the show to review an episode but what I was REALLY happy about was when we agreed to review Little Girl Lost! To those who might be living under a rock, Pamela Bob is the writer, creater and star of a web series entitled, Livin’ on a Prairie which is an award winning, 6 episodic short comedy with a certain Little House on the Prairie twist! Take my advice, look it up because you will LOVE IT! I hope you enjoy this episode because Pamela and I...
Jan 11, 20220•Ep. 164
A tradition on the podcast is an annual review of Christmas at Plum Creek! This year joining me in the discussion is Kelly Mielke, Suzann Holland and Stephanie Bailey! Thank you so much for joining me to discuss this legendary LHOTP episode! I hope you enjoy this roundtable discussion as much as we had recording it, It’s another LONG one so buckle up! Christmas at Plum Creek originally aired on December 25, 1974 The opening song “Albert” is written and performed by the amazing Norwegian band, Pr...
Dec 14, 20210•Ep. 163
“Mark, When are you going to review The Pilot Movie?” Thanks to the help of Matilda Smith-Thompson , Leah Mitchell and Kelly Mielke I finally have an answer and that answer is, NOW! We discuss so much such as: Was Pa lashing out too much at Laura? How does The Pilot version of Caroline compare to the TV series version? What WAS the snow budget of this movie? I hope you enjoy this roundtable discussion as much as we had recording it, It’s a LONG one so buckle up! The Pilot Movie originally aired ...
Dec 07, 20210•Ep. 162
Jerry Lange from the OSI Files Podcast joins me to discuss this legendary episode with guest stars, Johnny Cash and his wife, June Carter! We discuss so much in this episode and I hope you enjoy it nearly as much as we did while reviewing it! “After rescuing a seriously ill Reverend Alden from his runaway wagon, down on his luck Caleb Hodgekiss devises a plan to fleece the charitable townsfolk of Walnut Grove.” The Collection Originally aired on September 27, 1976 The opening song “Albert” is wr...
Nov 30, 20210•Ep. 161
Laura Ingalls Wilder Legacy and Research Association is dedicated to preserving the legacy and furthering scholarship of Laura Ingalls Wilder. This is a wonderful discussion I had with the President of the LIWLRA, Sarah Manley! Sarah is a true Bonnethead and loves the television show as well as the books! We had a great conversation about her organization and the plans for LauraPalooza 2022: The Wilder Side in Vermont! You can find out more information about the LIWLRA at their website https://w...
Nov 26, 20210•Ep. 15
Mark is joined by Kelly Mielke and Chantelle Dubois Nishiyama to discuss this oft-forgotten Little House on the Prairie Movie! We discuss so much in this episode and I hope you enjoy it nearly as much as we did while reviewing it! Gobble-gobble! “Little House on the Prairie” Thanksgiving clip show in which Laura Ingalls reminisces about the Ingalls’ journeys and struggles during a family Thanksgiving gathering.” Little House Years Originally aired on November 15, 1979 The opening song “Albert” i...
Nov 19, 2021•2 hr 22 min•Ep. 159
Karen Grassle AKA Caroline Ingalls was kind enough to sit with Walnut GroveCast to discuss her new book, Bright Lights, Prairie Dust. We discuss a number of really great things and I hope you enjoy this Walnut GroveCast exclusive! Order Bright Lights, Prairie Dust with this link: https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Lights-Prairie-Dust-Reflections/dp/1647423139 You can follow Karen Grassle’s ongoing career at her website and social media outlets! https://www.Karengrassle.net Instagram @karengrassle Kar...
Nov 18, 20210•Ep. 159
Karen Grassle AKA Caroline Ingalls was kind enough to sit with Walnut GroveCast to discuss her new book, Bright Lights, Prairie Dust. We discuss a number of really great things and I hope you enjoy this Walnut GroveCast exclusive! Order Bright Lights, Prairie Dust with this link: https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Lights-Prairie-Dust-Reflections/dp/1647423139 You can follow Karen Grassle’s ongoing career at her website and social media outlets! https://www.Karengrassle.net Instagram @karengrassle Kar...
Nov 18, 20210•Ep. 159
Shannon Quinten joins the podcast to discuss Silent Promises! We point out how everyone likes to point their finger at Almanzo for being Laura’s first TV kiss but in fact it was Daniel in this very episode! We discuss so much in this episode and I hope you enjoy it nearly as much as we did while reviewing it! “Laura takes a job tutoring a deaf boy named Daniel, teaching him how to communicate through sign language. Daniel makes more than an academic breakthrough – he develops a huge crush on Lau...
Nov 09, 20210•Ep. 158
Laura Solarin joins the show to discuss the episode, His Father’s Son! We discuss the John Jr character as well as some miscellaneous discussion about the rifle that he received from Isaiah. There are a few really great cinematic shots as well as Radames Pera showing his acting chops, it is certainly worthy of another viewing. Please put this episode on again and join us as we discuss and break down this incredible episode! “Isaiah Edwards attempts to bond with his newly adopted son and buys him...
Oct 26, 20210•Ep. 157
Wendi Lou Lee AKA Grace Ingalls joins me to review A Most Precious Gift! I was nervous about this episode because, although I have spoken to Wendi several times, I have never had a cast member actually review an entire episode! I thought this was just simply the BEST! Thank you so much for taking the time out of your schedule Wendi and I look forward to another one in the future! “Newly pregnant Caroline Ingalls misunderstands a comment from husband Charles that he hopes their new baby will not ...
Oct 12, 20210•Ep. 156
The end of Summer has arrived and so have the weekly episodes of Walnut GroveCast! This summer I released a total of 15 episodes of Walnut GroveCast, 11 episodes of Bonnetheads and 13 episodes of The Little House Book Club and there is a lot more to come! Although the podcast is returning to its bi-weekly roots there will still be releases of all of these podcasts to keep even the most demanding listener occupied! Thank you to each and every one of you for supporting the podcast and for being su...
Sep 28, 20210•Ep. 155
Chantelle Dubois Nishiyama returns to the show to discuss this heartbreaking episode about the power of belief in adults and children . Red Buttons guest stars as the charismatic Willie O’Hara who plays a travelling medicine salesman. “Jovial Willie O’Hara, a traveling, patent-medicine salesman, comes to Walnut Grove with his talking crow and chimpanzee “circus”, appears to immediately cure Mr. Hanson’s incurable headache and convinces most of the community that his remedy is good for anything, ...
Sep 21, 20210•Ep. 154
Susan King returns to Walnut GroveCast to help me review and discuss this memorable and dramatic episode. There is a lot in this episode including: could someone really fire a shotgun with one hand? is Nellie the worst singer in hero township? is Charles is really believable as a Doctor? “On a dark and stormy night, Laura and Mary are staying alone at the School for the Blind when they are taken hostage by a trio of escaped convicts.” Darkness Is My Friend originally aired on January 21, 1980 Th...
Sep 14, 20210•Ep. 153
Kelly Mielke returns to Walnut GroveCast to help me tackle this episode about taking chances. We discuss how Charles is the ultimate smooth talker for a MLM scheme, how feisty Mary is the best Mary and how the toy rocking chair is kind of creepy! So much is packed into this episode and I hope you enjoy it! “Fearing a swindle, angry Walnut Grove farmers vent their frustration on the anxious, pregnant wife of the man who promised them a good deal on hybrid corn and then doesn’t show up with the gr...
Sep 07, 20210•Ep. 152
Suzann Holland returns to the show to discuss this strange and uncomfortable episode about family and guilt. Charles is really laying the charm on thick in this episode but don’t worry because Charles has the answers to fix everything! “While out of town to buy horses, Charles Ingalls boards with Brett Harper, a man who is emotionally withdrawn from his unhappy family and trying to lose himself in work and whiskey, blaming himself for the accidental death of his oldest son in a riding accident f...
Aug 31, 20210•Ep. 151
Whitney Griggs joins me in this episode about a shy student who wants to learn and how adults can sometimes be completely cruel. We dive into everything about this episode and just have a great time! “Caroline’s special efforts to teach a shy, older boy to read while she is substitute-teaching for an injured Miss Beadle are ruined when mean-spirited Mrs. Oleson humiliates him in front of the class and he vows never to return to school.” School Mom originally aired on November 13, 1974 The openin...
Aug 24, 20210•Ep. 150