Wild West Podcast - podcast cover

Wild West Podcast

Michael King/Brad Smalleyworldfamousgunfighters.weebly.com

Welcome to the Wild West Podcast, winner of the 2026 Best of Western Podcast award, where fact and legend merge. We present the true accounts of individuals who settled in towns built out of hunger for money, regulated by fast guns, who walked on both sides of the law, patrolling, investing in, and regulating the brothels, saloons, and gambling houses. These are stories of the men who made the history of the Old West come alive - bringing with them the birth of legends, brought to order by a six-gun and laid to rest with their boots on. Join us as we take you back in history to the legends of the Wild West. You can support our show by subscribing to Exclusive access to premium content at Wild West Podcast + https://www.buzzsprout.com/64094/subscribe or just buy us a cup of coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/wildwestpodcast


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Episodes

Chapter 2: Peril and Pursuit in the Untamed West: Buck Laramie's Fateful Encounter and a Harrowing Flight from a Wrongful Accusation

Send a text Are you prepared to embark on a tumultuous journey through the untamed wild west? This episode unravels the heart-stopping, adrenaline-pumping antics of Buck Laramie, the quintessential cowboy, as he navigates the perilous landscapes of Western Aces' timeless tale, "Owl Hoot Ghost." Listen closely as we delve deep into Buck's arrival in the town of San Leon, where he encounters a gang of bandits, shockingly led by a man bearing an uncanny resemblance to his late brother. Buck's life ...

Apr 27, 202017 min

Chapter 1: Brotherhood and Betrayal in the Wild West: The Laramy Brothers' Heist and Bucky's Struggle for Justice in San Leon

Send us Fan Mail The producers of Wild West Podcast present a special reading of Robert E Howard’s public domain novel Boot Hill Payoff. The production is for all of those stay at home western novel lovers who need a little entertainment to break the boredom from COVID lockdown. Buckle up for a wild ride through the dusty trails of the old West, as we unravel the thrilling tale of "The Last Ride," published in the 1935's Western Aces. Expect an action-packed journey filled with brotherhood, betr...

Apr 27, 202016 min

Boot Hill Payoff Promotional

Send a text Starting on Wednesday, April 29 and for eight more Wednesdays thereafter the producers of Wild West Podcast will present a special reading of Robert E Howard’s public domain novel Boot Hill Payoff. This special production is for all of those stay at home western novel lovers who need a little entertainment to break the boredom. The e-book can be downloaded by using the link provided in the description section of this podcast. ( CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD E-BOOK ) So join us on April 29, ...

Apr 25, 20201 min

Boot Hill Membership Drive 2020

Send a text Become an associate member of Boot Hill Museum. Watch the Membership Drive Video and signup today at Boot Hill Association Membership . Support the show If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included....

Apr 09, 20202 min

Gunfight at the Longbranch Part 2: The Impact of the Loving-Richardson Shootout on Dodge City

Send a text WARNING SOME CUSS WORDS: Ever wondered how a personal feud takes a deadly turn in the Wild West? Let's transport you back to Dodge City, where we unravel the notorious shootout between Frank Loving and Levi Richardson at the Long Branch Saloon. A tale of disrespect, dueling, and eleven shots fired at an arm's length distance, this episode is packed with gripping details of a confrontation that left an indelible mark on Dodge City's history. We'll walk you through the Ford County Glob...

Mar 10, 202026 min

Whiskey & Westerns Part 2: The Buffalo Hunters

Send a text In part 2, The Buffalo Hunters, five characterizations from the book Return of the Great Hunters; Tales of the Frontier. The first two characters presented portrays a look at Josiah Mooar and a partnership created with Jim White in the opening of the Buffalo trade in 1872. The next two hunters by the name of Hoodoo Brown and Prairie Dog Marrow are told when Dodge City is first established. A time when Dodge City was founded through lucrative whiskey businesses that open up on the Sou...

Feb 13, 202026 min

Whiskey & Western’s:Part 1:Bat Masterson

Send a text In this two-part episode of Whiskey & Westerns on Wednesday’s we first characterize the legend of Bat Masterson while sipping a little whiskey. In part one of the “Characterization of Legends,” we will take you into the first chapter of the book “A Man in a Black Derby Hat.” Brad Smalley will break down a few additional characters like Ben and Billy Thompson along with Squirrel Tooth Alice. Support the show If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publ...

Feb 06, 202030 min

Mischief and Mayhem in Dodge City: The Unforgettable Adventures of Luke McGlue and Mayor Kelly's Pet Bear

Send a text Ever wondered how a notorious buffalo hunter and prankster navigated his way through the wild west? Get ready to be regaled with tales of Luke McGlue, the Irish mischief-maker who lived in Dodge City in the mid-1800s. We dive deep into Luke's unordinary escapades, his Irish upbringing, his journey to Kansas as a buffalo hunter, and his induction into the infamous Dodge City Gang with the help of old-timer Smiley. With humor and daring adventures, this episode is a wild west ride you ...

Dec 19, 201920 min

Buffalos and Bloodshed in the Wild West: An In-depth Exploration of Bison extinction and the Rise of the Frontier City

Send a text Prepare for a journey of discovery as we trace the footprints of the majestic buffalo across the American plains, and how their fate was intrinsically tied to the westward expansion of settlers post the Civil War. We'll recount the profound bond between the buffalo and the Plains Indians, and how the end of the Civil War ignited a push in the American economy, setting the stage for a dramatic shift in this narrative. Witness the rise of military posts, buffalo hunts for feeding troop...

Dec 18, 201919 min

Odyssey Through the American Frontier: Pioneers, Trails, and the Wild History of Kansas

Send a text Prepare for an odyssey that takes us back to the times of the American Frontiersmen, the brave and resilient pioneers who ventured west, tamed the wilderness, and laid the foundation for the United States as we know it today. We promise you an adventure packed with tales of survival, resourcefulness, and the indomitable spirit that pushed these early settlers beyond known territories. Discover how they blazed the Santa Fe trail, accelerating the development of the Frontier. As we jou...

Nov 06, 201916 min

Chapter Four: The Emanuel Dubbs Story

Send a text Part One, tells the story of one of the largest gunfights to ever take place in the American West fought in Newton, Kansas on August 20, 1871. In Part two, of the Emanuel Dubbs story takes you back to the late spring of 1872. Emanuel Dubbs with Mr. Wiley a head contractor scout out a location for a new supply depot. Dubbs riding on his favorite mule named Marie travel up the line from Fort Larned over what was then known as the Dry Ridge Trail. They came off the trail in sight of the...

Nov 03, 201920 min

Luke McGlue & the Keeley Cure

Send us Fan Mail The story you are about to hear is fictitious, but portions of the story are based on factual accounts. This is the story of a mischief-maker by the name of Luke McGlue. The Luke McGlue character transcends from the perceptiveness of his personality; the way this fictitious character might have perceived Dodge City through the realization of his times. In the mid-1800s, the people of Dodge had a legendary person in which they could blame all sorts of mayhem. His name was Luke Mc...

Oct 16, 201931 min

Boardwalks from Hell Part 2: AC Jackson's Brush with Danger and the Pursuit of Justice in Dodge City

Send us Fan Mail In Part Two of Boardwalks from Hell Bat Masterson is elected as Sheriff of Ford County as he continues to protect his brother Ed from evil doings. Yet, tragedy strikes quickly, at the Lady Gay Dance Hall. Experience a thrilling journey back to the Wild West in Dodge City, where a renegade cowboy named AC Jackson fires off a few shots, stirring up danger and sparking an intense chase. Join us, your hosts, as we bring this gripping tale to life, making you feel the dust settle pos...

Sep 29, 201928 min

Boardwalks from Hell Part 1: Bat Masterson's Riveting Return to Dodge City

Send a text What you are about to hear is an individual historical account of Bat Masterson's return to Dodge City, Kansas. Ready for a thrilling journey back to the Wild West? Buckle up, as we spin a tale of the legendary Bat Masterson and his return to Dodge City in 1877. This ride is packed with high-stakes adventure, danger, and a deep dive into the fabric of America's past. Be right there with Masterson as he steps off the train into a bustling city, teetering on the edge of lawlessness. Yo...

Sep 25, 201936 min

Saloon War in HQ Audio

Send us Fan Mail The Saloon War written and produced by Mike King and narrated by Brad Smalley is an account of a bloodless conflict that took place between Luke Short and the Dodge City mayor. The "HQ Audio" podcast documents the founding of Dodge City Kansas and the political factors leading up to up to the Saloon War of 1883. The story of Mayor Degers attempt to try and force Luke Short to close the Long Branch Saloon is an accurate account of the corrupt political factors supporting the take...

Aug 21, 201919 min

The Making of Boot Hill Distillery

Send us Fan Mail This is the story of Boot Hill Distillery which was Born from a barrel and forged in the dust. Crafted by artisan distillers, from soil to sip. Dodge City’s legacy was built on the ashes of the campfire and the footprints of a bar. With a craftsman’s eye for the highest quality ingredients, the grain is grown themselves, and a dedication to ethically sourcing ingredients Boot Hill Distillery brings new meaning to sustainability and transparency in craft distilling. Boot Hill Dis...

Aug 15, 201927 min

A Dark Day in Dodge City: The Murder of Dora Hand

Send a text The story that is about to be told undertakes one of the darkest days in Dodge City History. It is the story of a gifted entertainer who was born on August 23, 1844, as Isadore Addie May. Isadore at an early age showed signs of being a gifted vocalist. This gift prompted her to change to her stage name to become know as Fannie Keenan and become an entertainer traveling first in Europe then to the Western frontier. In 1878 she arrived in Dodge City, as Dora Hand divorced her husband C...

Jul 10, 201944 min

Pivotal Moments and Provocative Politics: Exploring the Chain of Events that Ignited the American Civil War

Send us Fan Mail What if the American Civil War could have been averted? Engage in a pivotal discussion as we navigate the intricate chain of events that led to one of the darkest periods in the history of the United States. This episode exposes the root of the discord that existed between the North and the South, highlighting how their differing economies, cultures, and views on slavery set the stage for a nationwide conflict. We delve into the controversies surrounding the Compromise of 1850 a...

May 12, 20197 min

Boots & Beer Auction: Boot Hill Museum

Send us Fan Mail On this special episode of Whiskey & Westerns we will be discussing with Laura Tawater the upcoming Boot Hill Museum, Boots and Beer Auction. You can get your Boots & Beer tickets TODAY! $60 per person or a discount of $450 for a table of 8 at boothill.org or 620-227-8188. Tickets include food, beer, cocktails, games, friends, and FUN!! Friday, May 3rd at the Boot Hill Casino & Resort Conference Center in Dodge City. Benefitting the museum's exhibit expansion project...

Apr 15, 20199 min

Whiskey & Western's on Wednesday: The Hoover Story

Send us Fan Mail On this episode of Whiskey & Western’s on Wednesday’s, Mike King and Brad Smalley tell the story of George M. Hoover. During the show, Mike & Brad talk about gardening safety, introduce the world’s highest rated whiskey, discuss the legal definition of bottle and bond, and tell the story behind one of the legends of Dodge City. The show will transition the listener back to June of 1872 and the history of whiskey sales along the Arkansas River Valley to the formation of a...

Apr 15, 201929 min

The Battle of Adobe Walls: A Harrowing Tale of Courage, Bloodshed, and Resilience in the Old West

Send a text Can you imagine the adrenaline pumping through your veins as a band of Indians suddenly appears on the horizon at sunrise? Picture the desperation as you and a group of other buffalo hunters scramble for cover, gearing up for a grim and intense battle. This episode is an immersive deep dive into the harrowing Battle of Adobe Walls. We share the chilling account of how two hunters were caught, killed, and shockingly scalped, and the courageous resistance that forced the Indians to ret...

Apr 02, 201935 min

Entrepreneurship and Enforcement in the Wild West: Tracing the Vibrant Life and Unyielding Spirit of Ham Bell

Send us Fan Mail Prepare yourself for a riveting journey back in time as we ride through the dusty streets of Dodge City, Kansas, following the multifaceted life of the legendary Ham Bell. From his humble beginnings as a clock cleaner, to his ventures into entrepreneurship and law, Ham Bell epitomized the true spirit of the Wild West. We'll recount how he drove the town's economic and cultural life with ventures ranging from a sod livery stable to a dance hall, and his audacious introduction of ...

Mar 12, 20198 min

Whiskey & Westerns: The Ham Bell Story

Send a text Ham Bell of Dodge City Kansas, became a legend noted for his frontier spirit, he had the ability to create. He was an entrepreneur; a person who was defined by his willingness to risk loss in order to improve the quality of life for others. CLICK HERE to view this episode on YouTube or Join us on Facebook at Wild West Podcast. Support the show If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included....

Mar 07, 201927 min

A Confrontation with the Tribes: The Sundance and the Unsettling Warning in the Wild West

Send a text Ever wondered how life in the Wild West was? Picture this: a small town being built from the ground up in a wilderness known as Adobe Walls. We're bringing you on an adventure where you'll traverse the landscape with Masterson, Billy Tyler, and Mike McCabe, searching for buffaloes – the lifeblood of this rugged lifestyle. Along the way, we stumble upon an ideal camping ground at the mouth of White Deer Creek, filled with signs predicting the return of the elusive buffaloes. As we con...

Feb 05, 201930 min

From the Frontier to the Adobe Walls: The Unseen Journey of Ed Jones and Joe Plummer

Send us Fan Mail Ever wanted to experience the thrill of the American frontier? Welcome aboard as we journey across the Arkansas River, traversing the vast landscapes of the Texas Panhandle, and exploring the world of buffalo hunter turned merchant, Ed Jones, and his companion Joe Plummer. This episode will take you on a wild adventure as we recount the formation of the Jones and Plummer Trail, and delve into the fearless exploits of Ed Jones, known as 'Dirty-faced Ed'. Can you imagine sharing m...

Jan 04, 201926 min

Reliving the Buffalo Hunting Era: Triumphs, Trials, and Tales from the Wild West

Send a text Welcome aboard our time machine as we travel back to the wild and raw era of buffalo hunting in late 19th century. We're embarking on a powerful journey that begins with Quana Parker, the son of Cynthia Ann Parker and a Comanche war chief, watching a white hunter craftily set his sights on a buffalo. As if frozen in time, we recount the scene in all its stark realism. What follows is a deep dive into the lives and adventures of these buffalo hunters. Their stories, fraught with chall...

Dec 14, 201829 min

A Cowboy's Tale

Send us Fan Mail A Cowboy's Tale begins at the end of a trail drive just outside of Dodge City at Saw Log Creek on November 3, 1877. A man by the name of Bob Shaw enters the Saw Log Creek campsite looking for a man by the name of Texas Dick. Shaw not finding Texas Dick at the drover camp stays for an evening meal and tells the story of the lynching of an innocent man. The next day Bob Shaw finds Texas Dick in the Lady Gay Saloon ending up in a stand off with gunplay between Ed Masterson and Bob ...

Nov 22, 201824 min

Boot Hill Past to Present

Send a text Join Brad Smalley and Mike King for another Whiskey and Westerns on Wednesdays. This episode will focus on the story behind Boot Hill from the past to the present. The Podcast will also feature Boot Hill Distillery as we take in a little Red Eye Whiskey. The story of “Boot Hill Past to Present” tells the history behind how Boot Hill was established and when it was relocated along with the individuals who found it as their finale-resting place. Join us on Facebook @ Wild West Podcast ...

Nov 20, 201831 min

Chisholm Trail: Driving the American West

Send a text During the first two decades after the Civil War, Texans drove herds north into Kansas and points beyond. In 1867, they began bringing them to Abilene, Kansas on the Chisholm Trail. As the frontier moved west, the railheads shifted to the southern Kansas towns of Newton and Wichita, as well as the western Kansas town of Ellsworth. Later, a branch of the Chisholm Trail, known as the Eastern Trail, forked into Dodge City. Support the show If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully i...

Nov 02, 20184 min

Whiskey & Westerns Wednesday: Law & Order

Send us Fan Mail What is redemption other than the act of making something better or more acceptable? Learn the true meaning of redemption on this week's Whiskey & Westerns on Wednesday. Brad Smalley and Mike King will take Redemption to the test and talk about Law and Order in Dodge City. The year is 1875. Dodge City Kansas prepares in the provisions for becoming a cattle town, bracing for the impact through the employment of the first police force. Learn about the personalities and charact...

Oct 31, 201842 min
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