Skip to main content
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott

By WKYT Uniquely Kentucky

WKYT’s Amber Philpott talks with those who make Kentucky so special.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Castbox Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
PodBean Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Josh Teater, PGA Golfer

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott Apr 17, 2020

00:00
25:47
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott| Kenneth Horsey, UK Football

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott| Kenneth Horsey, UK Football

The month of February is one we often think about love because of Valentine's Day, but it's also a month where we put the heart front and center.  We put the heart first, not just because of love this month, but rather for health reasons.

February is American Heart Month, it's a time when we should all focus a little more on our cardiovascular health. 

For this latest episode, WKYT's Amber Philpott is sitting down with University of Kentucky Offensive lineman Kenneth Horsey.  Horsey is passionate about heart health, he knows all too well the reality of a heart condition and how it can change your life.

In 2018, just a few months before he graduated high school he was diagnosed with Endocarditis, an infection that was attacking his heart valve.  Horsey would need open heart surgery, but he had already signed to play football at the University of Kentucky and had no idea what was next.

Skip ahead, Horsey is healthy and is returning this year for his sixth season as a Wildcat.  

Horsey is now a proud Heart Health advocate, but also focused on football and making up for a season that ended last year not the way he says he would like it.



Feb 22, 202336:09
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Brit Taylor

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Brit Taylor

As I was thinking about a guest list for this upcoming year on Uniquely Kentucky, I knew it had to include a number of musical artists. 

It seems in the last year my ears have been delighted by so many new and upcoming Kentucky artists who are making their mark in the industry.

I am also amazed by the wealth of talent in this state, namely the amount of folks from eastern Kentucky who are really putting out some incredibly meaningful music and not within the confines of mainstream music.  

So many of these up and coming artists are gaining fans not necessarily on the radio, but rather on streaming sites and on social media.

To kick off another season of Uniquely Kentucky, I am sitting down with Brit Taylor.

Taylor is an eastern Kentucky native who is releasing her sophomore album Kentucky Blue on February 3, 2023.

She is another shining example of the musical talent born and bred along the famed Country Music Highway or Route 23 that cuts a path through the mountains of eastern Kentucky.

Taylor's new album is being produced by fellow Kentuckian Sturgill Simpson. 

Taylor calls Kentucky Blue a celebration of her own healing and rebirth.

In this episode we talk all things music, how this record takes her back to her Appalachian roots and why in 2017 she turned off the radio and stopped listening to music in order to find her own sound.


Jan 26, 202331:20
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Justin Skeens

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Justin Skeens

If you have been wondering where the July episode of Uniquely Kentucky has been, do not worry you did not miss a thing.

We decided to hit the pause button out of respect to several major tragedies making the headlines in eastern Kentucky in June and July. 

First the funerals for the deadly ambush on three Floyd Co county officers and a K9 in early July and then the historic and catastrophic flooding that swept across parts of eastern Kentucky in late July.


WKYT''s Amber Philpott is someone who holds eastern Kentucky very close to her heart.

It's a place that gave Amber her start in television news, it's the place she got her college education and to her the mountains and its people will always have a place in her heart.  


This past month has been so incredibly hard on so many of our neighbors in eastern Kentucky, they have endured trauma, lost loved ones and watched as everything they worked so very hard for was washed away by the power of mother nature.


The flooding turned creeks like Troublesome Creek, normally mild and meandering into raging torrents of water.


Over the last month Amber and the WKYT team has spent time on the ground in places like Perry and Breathitt Counties, the devastation and destruction they have witnessed up close is immense, but they have also seen the kindness of strangers, been able to personally hug those who just needed to know someone cared and watched as a resilient region started to pick itself up and lean on others to get by.


In this episode we found it only fitting to introduce you to someone that uses his creative passion and soul to bring to life stories through video documenting eastern Kentucky and its people.  


Justin Skeens is an award-winning digital storyteller, in fact he is the Director of Digital Storytelling at Berea College. 


Skeens is an eastern Kentucky native, a former WYMT and WKYT videographer and in the last month he has picked up his camera not to document, but help preserve the history and struggles that have unfolded during this chaotic time.  


His love for Appalachia and everything it stands for is quite evident when you talk with him or watch one of his beautifully crafted pieces. 


He is a boy from the mountains living out a dream behind the lens using his talents to share with the world a place so many of us hold dear, Appalachia.




Aug 25, 202242:16
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Danielle Galyer Day

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Danielle Galyer Day

For this episode of Uniquely Kentucky, host Amber Philpott is talking sports. It is no secret she grew up playing and loving fast pitch softball in Kentucky. The game itself and really sports in general taught her so much about life, respect for yourself and others and about work ethic and discipline. June 23, 1972, changed the game for girls and women when it comes to sports. Title IX consists of thirty-seven words that just this month we celebrated the 50th anniversary of Title IX.  


“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”


Now, nowhere in those thirty-seven words do you hear sports mentioned, but it's what came along with the meaning behind the law that paved the way for all female athletes.  Doors were opened that had previously been closed and opportunities grew. Do we still face challenges as female athletes, of course-but Title IX gave us a place to start and a road map for female athletes to take off on that changed athletics as we know it.


This month here on Uniquely Kentucky Amber is talking with a celebrated former University of Kentucky female athlete about her accomplishments, the grind it takes to be the best and how she thinks Title IX has helped even out the playing field.


So, get ready to take a dip in the pool, well not literally, but how about a not so literal lap around the pool with former University of Kentucky athlete and the school's first swimming National Champion winning the 2016 NCAA title the in women's 200 backstroke Danielle Galyer Day.

Jun 30, 202236:53
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Tanner Hesterberg

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Tanner Hesterberg

As a journalist now for 19 years WKYT's Amber Philpott says there have been stories that have quite frankly just fascinated her. There are stories that when simply mentioned she is compelled to click on our watch to learn the latest in the case or story. One of those stories is that of disgraced eastern Kentucky lawyer Eric C. Conn. The Floyd County attorney managed to pull off the largest social security fraud scheme in U.S. history. Conn's story is one that is almost unbelievable and one that you might think was ripped from the pages of a Hollywood script.

Conn's story was recently released as part of a new docuseries, The Big Conn on Apple TV+. For this episode of Uniquely Kentucky host Amber Philpott is talking with former WKYT and WYMT reporter and anchor Tanner Hesterberg. He has worked on this case in his reporter days, but now is back in eastern Kentucky as an attorney and fighting to help some of Conn's clients try and get their benefits back.

May 27, 202237:09
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Cory Stringer

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Cory Stringer

Uniquely Kentucky podcast host Amber Philpott is a self-proclaimed bookworm. As much as she loves reading, she also loves learning about authors, how they got their start, where their inspiration comes from and how they finally found the courage to put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard to make their stories come to life.


This month on Uniquely Kentucky Amber is talking with Cory Stringer. Amber first introduced viewers to Stringer and his dog Bloo in Lexington back in 2018 for a story on WKYT. Bloo has an amazing story of survival after being rescued from a fire at the Knox Whitley Animal Shelter and the second chance at life she was given will melt your heart. Bloo is now the star in a series of books written by Stringer in a cartoon type style featuring Bloo's zany antics and fun nature which are captured within the pages.  The books were designed for parents to enjoy while reading alongside their children.


Bloo is a beautiful black lab mix with the most perfect Kentucky blue eyes and while she can't be a guest on the podcast Amber is talking with her human who is standing in to tell her story.


Apr 26, 202236:37
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Amanda Matthews

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Amanda Matthews

The month of March is Women's History Month, but did you know that as recently as the 1970s, women's history was an unknown topic for students K-12. In 1978 a California education task force began a movement to establish Women's History Week. According to the National Women's History Alliance it took until 1986, for fourteen states to declare March as Women's History Month, momentum grew and state by state congress was lobbied and finally in 1987 March was declared as National Women's History month. Every year a special presidential proclamation is issued which honors the extraordinary achievements of American women.

To celebrate a Kentucky woman making her mark on history, Uniquely Kentucky host Amber Philpott sat down with award winning sculptor and designer of public art and central Kentuckian Amanda Matthews. She is the CEO of Prometheus Art in Lexington, KY. Matthews' work is in many notable collections including museums, public parks, government buildings, and municipalities across the country. One of Matthews latest installations can be found in New York City and is entitled The Girl Puzzle.

Public art is meant to inspire, educate, and start a conversation. The pieces Matthews has been commissioned to create, often times represent women who have been overlooked, but who have contributed greatly and many times have a voice that still rings true today.

Matthews has also been selected to create the KY COVID Memorial to honor the lives lost during the pandemic, but also to celebrate the determination of society in trying to overcome it.

Mar 23, 202239:50
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Michael Preacely

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Michael Preacely

What does music do for you? Does a certain song transport you in time? Do you feel emotion through certain songs? Does music move you? Music is the soundtrack of our lives, the good the bad and the ugly. Music is often one of the things that can unite us.


In this episode of Uniquely Kentucky host Amber Philpott talks with Michael Preacely, a rising star in the musical world. Preacely and his baritone voice can transport you to another place through song. Preacely is gaining attention for his performances on the opera stage, having toured regionally and internationally. He has performed in the classic Porgy and Bess among other shows in Kentucky and beyond. He is not a Kentucky native, but he has found his home here in Lexington through the University of Kentucky where he has since earned his doctorate and now lectures at the university. Preacely is now working to inspire the next generation of singers and through his music encourage more young, African American youth to seek out their musical abilities. His voice will put a smile on your face, but his upbeat personality will really put a song in your heart when you meet him.

Feb 22, 202228:16
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Wylie Caudill

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Wylie Caudill

Welcome back to Uniquely Kentucky, a podcast hosted by WKYT evening news anchor Amber Philpott. Uniquely Kentucky is dedicated to conversations with people in Kentucky or who have ties to the state who are interesting, inspire us and sometimes just simply fascinate us. In this first episode Amber talks with central Kentucky mural artist Wylie Caudill. Mural art has become popular in communities across Kentucky and Caudill is making his mark with his creations that are eye catching and colorful. Some of his pieces can be seen in his hometown of Cynthiana, Ky. as well as in Lexington. In this episode Caudill talks about how he got his start, what motivates and inspires him and the advice he has for others wanting to display their art to the world.


Jan 27, 202231:52
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Evening Team-A look back

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Evening Team-A look back

In the last year we have had to find a new way to bring you Uniquely Kentucky amid a global pandemic.  When we first started this podcast, we loved recording in person, there is nothing like a good chat that then becomes a podcast.  Once the pandemic hit, we were forced to connect with our guests in a different way, mainly online.  In this episode I am joined by Sam Dick, my evening WKYT co-anchor and WKYT Chief Meteorologist Chris Bailey as we look back on the last year of living and working during a pandemic.

Mar 18, 202126:06
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Renee Shaw

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Renee Shaw

As Renee Shaw likes to say she was born in Tennessee but grew up in Kentucky. Shaw came to the state to attend Western Kentucky University and once she graduated, she never left. Shaw is now a longtime anchor and host for Kentucky Educational Television.  She got her start at KET in 1997 as a public policy reporter, she now hosts legislative coverage, anchors election coverage and in 2005 she launched Connections a show she continues to host. Connections is a statewide minority affairs program tackling several issues. She is a fellow journalist who like a lot of us has had to adapt in this last year.

Feb 24, 202133:11
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Jonathan Webb, AppHarvest

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Jonathan Webb, AppHarvest

Jonathan Webb is the founder and CEO of AppHarvest, a new company based in Kentucky and focusing on making Appalachia the AgTech capital of the country and even the world.  Webb a Kentucky native worked in New York and Washington but decided to return to Kentucky with an idea of using indoor farming to help change the landscape of agriculture.  In 2017 he was encouraged by investors to make his dream a reality and returned home to Kentucky to do so.


The first indoor farm is now open and producing tomatoes at a 60 acre facility in Morehead, Kentucky.


Jonathan Webb is a busy guy these days, AppHarvest just when live on the stock market and he is busy telling the story of AppHarvest to people all across the globe. 


Feb 09, 202121:12
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Ashley Smith, Black Soil

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Ashley Smith, Black Soil

As co-founder of Black Soil: Our Better Nature Ashley Smith is working to reconnect black farmers to their agricultural heritage and legacy. Founded in 2017, the Lexington based agritourism organization was started to help shine a light on the underrepresentation of minorities when it comes to Kentucky's agricultural world.

There were so many things that 2020 opened our eyes to, the pandemic has help to shine a light even more on hunger and the need for access to healthy foods for everyone in this country. It also helped to shine a light on diversity and a much-needed conversation on bringing everyone to the table. When I first learned about Ashley Smith I was fascinated by what she was doing not just here in Lexington, but across the state when it comes to African American farmers and helping to bring together urban families, rural and urban black farmers and growers to begin the conversation about the possibilities.

Feb 02, 202128:20
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Austin Shuck

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Austin Shuck

Happy New Year how is your 2021 going so far.  I know the world is still a tough place to navigate right now, I'm hoping like me you can try and look for the good anywhere we can find it.  


For the first Uniquely Kentucky podcast of the new year I chose a guest who spends his days looking for ways to put those positive vibes into the world.  I believe we can all be a good light for others and Austin Shuck is one of the brightest.  He is the host of the What the Shuck podcast.


Austin's story is like so many, life sort of just piled up and before he knew it, he was stuck in a place he didn't want to be but finding that spark to change was hard.  Once he did though, amazing things are happening for the West Liberty, Ky native.


In this episode we are talking about his podcast and the space it creates for him to learn from others.

We are also talking about mental health, knowing when to ask for help and more importantly learning it's okay to ask for it.  

Jan 16, 202141:16
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Jay Farrell, Author

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Jay Farrell, Author

In this episode of Uniquely Kentucky we are exploring the back roads of Eastern Kentucky through the eyes of a Nashville based photographer.  Jay Farrell is a self-proclaimed urban and rural explorer who not only photographs, but also writes about what he says are forgotten corners of the Americana.  Farrell is the author of a series of books entitled, Abandoned.  He has written 12 books, three of which focus of Kentucky including his latest entitled Abandoned Eastern Kentucky.  


I think all of us have probably driven down the road, saw a house or building falling in and wondered about its history, why it was left to the elements and those questions are exactly what draws Farrell in closer to try and figure out why it's abandoned.  In this episode we talk about why he loves venturing off the beaten path and why this Nashville photographer loves Kentucky.

Dec 07, 202029:33
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Matthew Bradford

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Matthew Bradford

This week on Uniquely Kentucky we are sitting down with a Winchester, Ky native and man who fought for our country nearly making the ultimate sacrifice. Retired Marine Corporal Matthew Bradford lives by the motto "No Legs, No Vision, No Problem." During the month in which we celebrate Veterans Day we wanted to take a moment to talk with Bradford, to learn of the combat mission that took not only his legs, but also his vision and tried to take his life. Bradford survived an improvised explosive attack, his battle back from his injuries was long and grueling, but he now spends his days traveling the country talking with other veterans to spread his message of hope. Bradford who moved back to Kentucky, has never let his injures stop him. He has run marathons, climbed Mt. Rainier and in 2010 he re-enlisted as the first blind, double amputee in the military. His story is one of hope, perseverance and determination and he is one of countless veterans we can thank for our freedom here at home.

Nov 24, 202037:31
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Roger Slade, Cynthiana Ghost Walk

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Roger Slade, Cynthiana Ghost Walk

Who loves a good ghost story? I guess you could say I'm a sucker for a good story, and I really love those rooted most in history. When I was a child growing up in Harrison County, I often heard one ghost story that has been told for years and it’s another reason why Kentucky is so special. Communities here are rich in stories and tales that have been passed down from generation to generation.

In this episode of Uniquely Kentucky I'm talking with Roger Slade, he is a storyteller extraordinaire in Harrison Co. He wears many hats, he is a schoolteacher, small business owner and a man who loves history. Take a listen as Slade and I talk ghosts, storytelling and how communities like his are using things like ghost walks to introduce outsiders to the history of the place he calls home.

Oct 28, 202038:31
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Vitale Buford, Author

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Vitale Buford, Author

Welcome to Uniquely Kentucky, a podcast built around chatting with some of the state's most interesting characters and the things they are doing to making Kentucky so unique. On this episode we are sitting down with Lexington author and life coach, Vitale Buford about her new book "Addicted to Perfect, A Journey Out of the Grips of Adderall." In this brutally honest memoir, Buford details the ups and downs during her time addicted to the prescription drug Adderall. She also looks at perfectionism and addiction and how each can feed off one another, but also how you can break free of both with healing and self-love. Buford is a transplant to Lexington but has made the Bluegrass home for several years.

Oct 19, 202031:38
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Gerry Brooks

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Gerry Brooks

The month of August is upon us and that typically means the start of a new school year is in sight for parents, but this year will look much different for students across the state as COVID-19 concerns cause schools to change up how students learns.

My guest this week on Uniquely Kentucky is a central Kentucky man that by day is one of those educators, but by night and weekend he is encouraging his fellow teachers through his hilarious social media posts shot from the inside of his car. Gerry Brooks draws from his years in the classroom and as a principal to put a smile on the faces of others through humor. Brooks has become a social media star with well over two million followers and tours the country taking his message to his fellow educators.

Aug 12, 202028:59
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Tyler Booth

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Tyler Booth

As host of this podcast getting the chance to talk with anyone musically talented is extra fun for me, probably because I have no musical talent. I love to learn how people in the music industry got their start, what inspires them to make music and I love learning about the behind the scenes aspect of country music itself.

The Bluegrass state is rich in musical history and the artists who have come out this state run the gambit from country, bluegrass, hip hop and even gospel. This week on Uniquely Kentucky I am sitting down with Wolfe Co. native Tyler Booth. He was born and raised in and around Campton and was recently signed to Sony Music Nashville. Since the pandemic started Tyler has had to scale back his touring, but he hasn't stopped writing music and he has a new song our right now, "In God and Trucks We Trust."

Jul 17, 202033:59
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Colton Ryan and Patrick Garr

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Colton Ryan and Patrick Garr

If you are like me, you continue to miss things that probably you took for granted before the world changed. I love live music and I adore sitting in a theater watching a live production. Hello Dolly, Mary Poppins, and Wicked are just some of my favorites.

The lights on Broadway went dark on March 12th, as COVID-19 cases skyrocketed in New York City. The closure of those shows left many performers out of work including two Kentucky natives. This week on Uniquely Kentucky I'm sitting down with Patrick Garr and Colton Ryan, both were performing in their respective shows at the time.

Colton Ryan gained a name for himself when he secured the understudy role on Dear Evan Hansen a few years ago. When COVID hit he had just opened in a new show on Broadway, Girl From North Country.

Patrick Garr found himself on Broadway in the smash hit Mean Girls. He was actually on the road touring with a national company of Hamilton when the lights went dark.

Both hope despite the shutdown that the great white way comes back stronger than ever when the curtain goes back up.

Jul 10, 202037:31
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Devine Carama

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Devine Carama

As we put this particular episode out it comes after a very trying week across the country in the wake of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis that sparked outrage and a call to action to end police brutality and inequality.  Here in Kentucky we have seen protests in the name of George Floyd and for the death of Breonna Taylor back in March in Louisville.  


Emotions have run high, there has been a lot of tension in a number of communities, but in the end we all deserve to live in a world where we are all equal and just because our skin is a different color shouldn't mean we are treated any differently from the police or anyone.  My heart breaks right now for so many, but I also understand that this conversation must continue and it must push for change.


To keep this conversation going I wanted to talk with Devine Carama, he is a Lexington hip hop artist, activist and change maker.  Through his music, his word and his mentoring he is putting positive vibes out in the world and is calling on all of us to use this time to be better.


Jun 09, 202030:11
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Wanda Hammons, AMR

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Wanda Hammons, AMR

Would you leave your home and go fight on the frontlines of COVID-19 in the heart of a hot zone? It is a big ask and this week as I am putting out another episode of this podcast it is National EMS Week. Our first responders are heroes, they go to work every single day not knowing what awaits them. They often walk into situations that many of us would simply run from.

That question of going into a hot zone was one that came to a Grant County EMT, Wanda Hammons and it was an ask that she accepted without a lot of hesitation. Hammons spent 35 days in New York City running an ambulance for some of the sickest patients. Now back home in Kentucky she has a serious warning for others about the battle she witnessed firsthand.

May 22, 202018:32
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Matthew Mitchell

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Matthew Mitchell

Matthew Mitchell will be entering his 13th season as head of the Women's Basketball program at the University of Kentucky this season. He came in with a vision of making the women's program a powerhouse program and he has done so using his three "winning tools" for success: honesty, hard work and discipline. Mitchell and his teams have helped build a fan base that is like any other having set attendance records in multiple seasons for women’s athletics.

For this week's episode of Uniquely Kentucky I checked in on a guy who is one of the most motivating and positive guys I know. For this episode I’m talking with Mitchell about basketball, but also what life has been like while healthy at home, why being a home school teacher is harder than coaching college ball he says and what he is and isn't getting to watch on Netflix.

May 15, 202024:23
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Jenny Pfanenstiel, Master Milliner

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Jenny Pfanenstiel, Master Milliner

This week in Kentucky should have been Derby Week, meaning we should have been celebrating the sights and sounds of one of the best traditions in the state.  Unfortunately because of COVID-19 it has been postponed, so we will have to wait until September to experience the fun Derby brings.

 

I couldn't let Derby week pass without taking time on the podcast to talk about one of my most favorite parts of Derby, the hat fashion.  

This week I'm chatting with Jenny Pfanenstiel, she is a master milliner and owner of Forme' Millinery Co. in Louisville.  

Pfanenstiel is not a native Kentuckian, but fell in love with the bluegrass after coming here year after year to sell her pieces of head art.  Now as the "Featured Milliner for the 146th Kentucky Derby" she owns and operates her shop in the Derby city and continues to create her unique style of hats year after year.


Apr 30, 202023:41
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Landon Young, UK Football

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Landon Young, UK Football

Normally this time of year we would be talking spring football and how the University of Kentucky Wildcats are looking for the fall, but with COVID-19 that is not the case. So to talk a little college football this week I'm sitting down with UK Senior Offensive Tackle and Lexington, Ky. native Landon Young. He decided to return to the Cats and forego entering the NFL draft. Young sat out in 2018 red-shirting due to an injury. He is known for his play on the field, but he is also known for his good works off the field having been named the 2019 Captain for the Allstate Good Works team. Landon is a guy that loves football, but also a farm kid at heart.

Apr 24, 202020:60
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Josh Teater, PGA Golfer

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Josh Teater, PGA Golfer

If you are like me you are probably longing for those things that you once loved prior to the COVID-19 pandemic that have had to be put on hold right now so that we can all stay safe.  For me, one of those things is sports and namely this time of year its golf.  I love the PGA, I love following golf and I dream of a day when I can walk the course of the Masters.  


For now all of that will have to wait, so to get my golf fix I turned to a fellow Morehead State Eagle and PGA player Josh Teater.  

Josh was just ahead me in school and through mutual friends I have gotten to know him over the years and more importantly follow his career in professional golf.


Josh grew up here in Lexington played at Morehead State and turned pro in 2001.  He has been grinding it out now having moved around on different tours.  Just last month in February he saw one of his best career performances on the course having come down the stretch and was barely edged out of the Puerto Rico Open.


Apr 17, 202025:47
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Samantha Fore, Tuk Tuk Sri Lankan Bites

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Samantha Fore, Tuk Tuk Sri Lankan Bites

One of the areas hit hard by the closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic is our restaurant industry.  Here in Lexington and really all around central Kentucky we have a vibrant "foodie" scene if you will.  Our tastebuds here in the city really run the gambit of different foods and we have so many amazing options.


This week on Uniquely Kentucky my guest is a gal who knows Lexington's food scene well.  Sam Fore is  the owner of Tuk Tuk Sri Lankan Bites, she infuses a bit of a southern flare with her native recipes.  This week we talk about her unique business, but also how so many in the food services industry have pulled together during this pandemic to support one another during these trying times.


Apr 10, 202025:32
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Jason Smith, Food Network Star

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Jason Smith, Food Network Star

This week for Uniquely Kentucky Amber is talking with a Kentuckian who loves to be home, but is also probably one of the busiest guys she knows. Jason Smith is everybody's favorite home baker having been the first one to win the Holiday Baking Championship on the Food Network. While we are all being healthy at home, Jason is cooking up a storm and doing so for all the world to see on social media these days. He is also using his catchy phrases we all love to now help those in need.

Apr 03, 202017:19
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Folks behind "Andy Beshear Memes Page"

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Folks behind "Andy Beshear Memes Page"


While the world seems very heavy right now with the COVID-19 outbreak and our new normal has changed our lives and in some cases turned them upside down.  Despite the state we may be in, there is hope and there are things to laugh and smile about it.  For just a bit Amber Philpott would like to use Uniquely Kentucky to take your mind off of all the heavy and just smile.  This week Amber is talking with James Line, chances are you have never heard of him, but if you live in Kentucky you probably over the last week have seen his work through the Facebook page "Andy Beshear Memes for Social Distancing Teens."  The page has become become the go to place for people to share their love for the Kentucky Democratic governor.  Amber sat down with Line who is the administrator of the page via Skype to talk about its cult following and how the page's creators hope to use this platform to inspire good deeds and putting some much needed positivity out into the world.

Mar 26, 202021:45
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Talking COVID-19 and the News

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Talking COVID-19 and the News

Here in Kentucky the last two weeks have been unprecedented, scary and uncertain we know. While Uniquely Kentucky is usually meant to give you a break from the hustle and bustle of the world around us, for this episode of Uniquely Kentucky Amber sits down with her co-anchor WKYT's Sam Dick to just talk about what has unfolded the last few weeks. In this episode they are talking about the headlines, what WKYT has been doing behind the scenes to keep you informed and also how this has changed the way WKYT covers news.

Mar 20, 202017:01
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-15 Audra Meighan, Author

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-15 Audra Meighan, Author

How many of us are guilty of not exploring more of the cities and states in which we live? Sometimes we forget that we can actually be a tourist in our own communities. Audra Meighan is helping people that live in central Kentucky explore one of the largest cities through a new book, “100 Things To Do In Lexington Before You Die.” Meighan is a central Kentucky native and considers herself an unofficial “Ambassador to the Commonwealth.” Her new book is meant to be a bucket list full of fun, quirky and historical stops throughout the city. Meighan is the guest on this week’s episode of Uniquely Kentucky with Amber to talk about the book and why this was a fun exploration into writing.

Mar 12, 202026:44
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-14 Brandon Holder

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-14 Brandon Holder

With the recent deadly tornadoes that ravaged Nashville, Tenn. and surrounding areas Amber checks in on a friend and musician living in the Music City. Brandon Holder is a Tennessee native who cut his teeth on music in and around the Lexington, Ky. area when he was getting his start. Holder can now be found playing some of the most popular spots on lower Broadway in the Music City.

Mar 07, 202022:12
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-13 Kimmery Martin, Author

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-13 Kimmery Martin, Author

Kimmery Martin is a critically acclaimed ER doctor turned author who just released her second book. Living now in the Charlotte, NC area, Martin grew up near Berea, KY living what she calls a very magical life that always included books.

She admits she is a lifelong literary nerd who reads two to three books a week in her free time. On the heels of her first book, The Queen of Hearts released in 2018, Martin has now released her second book, an issue driven story of what happens when a doctor is fired for treating transgender patients.

The Antidote for Everything was just released in February of 2020 and has Martin on a whirlwind book tour. She stopped in to be a part of the Uniquely Kentucky podcast while she was in Lexington on one of those stops. In this episode she talks with Amber about her life in Kentucky growing up, where her inspiration to write comes from and why she decided to leave the emergency room to become an author.

Feb 27, 202027:05
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-11 Deanna Lynn, Author

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-11 Deanna Lynn, Author

Please note, this episode of Uniquely Kentucky has mature content and may not be suitable for younger listeners. Human trafficking and sexual exploitation may seem like a big city problem, but places like central Kentucky are no stranger to the crime. The trafficking of humans, especially women is a nearly $10 billion industry in the United States. In Kentucky, the detectives and those working the frontlines to stop trafficking will tell you the drug epidemic only fuels it.

Deanna Lynn is the author of a new book called Purchased, Leaving the Sex Trade. She found her way to Kentucky through the help of an organization who helps rehab women leaving the sex industry, Refuge for Women. In this episode Amber and Deanna explore the path her life took her on that included being exploited and how she finally found the strength to get sober and leave. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.

Feb 21, 202029:59
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-11 Brett Higgins, Musician

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-11 Brett Higgins, Musician

Kentucky is known for basketball, bourbon and horses, but music is also high on that list.  From bluegrass, country, rock, jazz and more Kentucky has seen its fair share of amazing artists, musicians and songwriters.  In Lexington, the live music scene is exploding with more and more, great music being heard in bars, clubs and breweries across town.  Brett Higgins is a Winchester native who has been kicking it around musically for years now.  He is one half of the duo Prototype and they have new music coming out soon.  In this episode of Uniquely Kentucky Higgins sits down with Amber to talk about Kentucky’s music scene, where his inspiration comes from for his next song and why “Marvelous Monday” has become his jam on social media!

Feb 13, 202030:49
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-09 Rick Paynter, Shop Local Kentucky

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-09 Rick Paynter, Shop Local Kentucky

Spreading joy one t-shirt at a time, that has become the unofficial company motto for Shop Local Kentucky. The company, selling fun and interesting t-shirts was started by husband and wife Rick and Joni Paynter in their garage.

The grassroots style business quickly grew becoming the place many now turn for their favorite t-shirt. The Paynter's have grown their business by not just selling shirts, but also through giving back to their community.

Shop Local Kentucky has become synonymous with giving. In the last three years Shop Local has given away more than a half million dollars through the sale of some its most popular charitable shirts.

In this episode owner Rick Paynter talks about growing Shop Local Kentucky, how a simple t-shirt can bring such joy to people's lives and why he says Kentuckians are the best!

Feb 06, 202026:41
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-09 Miss KY Alex Francke

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-09 Miss KY Alex Francke

Since 1935 the Miss Kentucky Organization has evolved from a mere beauty pageant into a well-respected program that has provided thousands of dollars in scholarship money to young women in central Kentucky.  For many young girls across the state becoming Miss Kentucky is a dream and the woman crowned each year becomes a role model for so many.  In June of 2019 Lexington native Alex Francke was named Miss Kentucky and from day one she took her role and ran with it.  Francke has spent the last several months working for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture promoting the state’s Kentucky Proud program.  She is passionate about the nonprofit she runs Adopt An Art which provides free art curriculum to schools where there isn’t enough funding for these programs or they have been cut all together.  In this episode of Uniquely Kentucky Alex talks about her time in what she calls her “sparkly hat,” motivating youngsters and she takes us inside the Miss America 2.0 pageant.

Jan 30, 202032:43
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Burn Boot Camp-Resolutions and Goals

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Burn Boot Camp-Resolutions and Goals

Every year many of us make resolutions or goals in the new year to change something in our lives, but sadly many of those fly right out the window in just a couple of weeks.  One of the most popular resolutions for people is getting in shape and eating better.  In this episode of Uniquely Kentucky Amber sits down with a Lexington, Ky. fitness trainer and motivator who uses positivity to inspire his clients to not only reach their goals, but encourage others.  Jarad Foglesong first came to Kentucky to play football for Georgetown College, but after graduating he found a home in working with others in central Kentucky to help them reach their fitness and training goals.  Foglesong is now the head trainer at Burn Boot Camp, a “community” first concept that helps women build confidence and muscle at the same time.  In this episode Amber and Jarad talk about what holds us back from making fitness a part of our lives and the ways we can motivate and inspire ourselves to step out of our comfort zones.

Jan 22, 202028:02
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-07 Kash Daniel, University of Kentucky Football

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-07 Kash Daniel, University of Kentucky Football

On New Year's Eve the University of Kentucky football team pulled off a thrilling win in the 2019 Belk Bowl with a 37-30 win over Virginia Tech. One of those players still celebrating that win is linebacker and UK graduate Kash Daniel. The Paintsville, Ky. native has been a leader both on the field and off for the UK football team. Wearing number 56 he became a fan favorite and the pride of the 606 for folks back home in eastern Kentucky. Despite his season being over for the blue and white he now has his sights set on playing professionally and the NFL combine. Daniel was selected to play in the Tropical Bowl, an All Star game set to take place January 12. In this episode of Uniquely Kentucky Daniel talks about his time playing, he opens up about an incident on the field that caused a media firestorm and he talks about being in a dark place for much of the season and how he found his way out to finish up his final games on the field.

Jan 13, 202034:17
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-06 Jared and Josh Ravenscraft

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-06 Jared and Josh Ravenscraft

Two brothers, a couple hundred dollars and a dream of starting a business is what led to the creation of the small business, New Frontier Outfitters.  Jared and Josh Ravenscraft of Morehead, Ky. started the outdoor lifestyle brand two years ago selling a clothing line that some consider to be Appalachian chic.  The two grew up loving the outdoors, but felt like all of the clothing geared towards what they loved to do represented the American west and not the mountains and hills they call home in eastern Kentucky.  The brothers now run an online store and have a brick and mortar in their hometown of Morehead.  Their clothing line has a who’s who of people sporting the gear, folks like the country group Midland, country singer Tyler Booth and even actor Channing Tatum.

Jan 06, 202027:10
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-05 Chris Bailey Christmas Breakdown

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-05 Chris Bailey Christmas Breakdown

With the Christmas season upon us that can only mean one thing, it is Christmas movie watching season! Time for you to sit around glued to your television or smartphone taking in endless hours of Hallmark, timeless classics or the hilarious Christmas favorites we have all come to love and adore. No one loves Christmas more than Amber Philpott and Chris Bailey, both consider themselves Christmas junkies. In this episode Amber and Chris talk about their favorite movies, breakdown why they love each film and the two might just disagree a bit over some of the more obscure holiday movies. Merry Christmas!

Dec 17, 201928:11
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-04

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-04

Jacqueline Coleman will be officially sworn in as Kentucky's next Lt. Governor on Tuesday, December 10, 2019, Coleman has been hard at work since first being elected to the position back in November. Coleman will be busy serving in that role and as the Secretary of the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. Coleman also has another new title coming as well, new mom.

Lt. Governor-elect Coleman admits there is no rest for the weary when you are assembling a new administration in Frankfort.
The educator and former high school girls’ basketball coach knows a thing or two about putting a winning team together.
She says her primary focus in office will be education, fighting for the teacher she says have felt left out in the past administration.

Dec 09, 201913:16
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-03 MaKenzie Thomas

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-03 MaKenzie Thomas

Makenzie Thomas is a soulful singer and semifinalist on season 15 of the hit NBC show The Voice. Thomas, a native of Fleming Co., Kentucky grew up singing in church at the just the young age of 3-years-old. She says she is inspired by gospel, R&B and soul music. While she may have been eliminated in the Top 8 on The Voice Thomas has made a name for herself and is pursuing her music career. Her new album Hym will be released December 17 across all music platforms. In this episode of Uniquely Kentucky Thomas talks about performing for millions, being mentored by Jennifer Hudson and how she says she overcomes incredible stage fright.

Dec 05, 201928:49
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-02 Tara Conner, Miss USA 2006

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-02 Tara Conner, Miss USA 2006

Tara Conner was crowned Miss USA in 2006, but the Kentucky native would encounter headlines of a different kind just a few short months later. Allegations of underage drinking and testing positive for cocaine put Conner’s title and career on the line. Her then boss and former owner of the pageant, Donald Trump gave her a second chance, but she was ordered into rehab. Now, nearly 13 years later Conner is still sober and an advocate for recovery. She travels the country speaking on addiction and reaching out for help. She was recently in Lexington speaking to the men and women of the Hope Center to show them there is hope and life after addiction. She now lives in Los Angeles and is the host of a new talk show called the Real Talk 100.

Nov 25, 201925:27
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-01 Ouita Michel

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | 2-01 Ouita Michel

Uniquely Kentucky is rolling out season two, and episode one has a guest that knows her way around the kitchen and has her finger on the pulse of the food culture in central Kentucky.

Chef Ouita Michel is a James Beard Foundation Award nominee and queen of the Bluegrass culinary scene. She and her husband Chris bought Holly Hill Inn in Midway, Kentucky in 2000 and she now operates eight restaurants in and around Lexington. She believes in shopping and serving local food on her menus and strives to create a special experience for every person who comes through her doors. Chef Ouita is a big believer in empowering women and upcoming chefs. She strives to create a business environment where women are supported, heard and empowered.  She has her finger on the pulse of the food culture in central Kentucky. In this episode she and Amber talk all things food and why so many of us have a special connection to the certain foods we love.

Nov 21, 201929:35
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Hillbilly Horror Stories Podcast, Jerry and Tracy Paulley

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Hillbilly Horror Stories Podcast, Jerry and Tracy Paulley

If you love ghost stories, paranormal activity and things that are just plain strange, then you will love Lexington husband and wife team Jerry and Tracy Paulley. Together the two host the podcast Hillbilly Horror Stories which focuses on the paranormal, true stories behind some of your favorite scary movies and even unsolved mysteries. The couple first released a podcast in 2016 and since then it has grown to have an audience of thousands of people who tune in weekly for their quirky talk. This week for Uniquely Kentucky Jerry and Tracy sit down to talk with Amber about their podcast, some of their favorite haunted spots around Kentucky and more importantly how they are trying to reach out to those who may be dealing with mental health issues.

Oct 30, 201932:53
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Robby Chadwell, Filmmaker-Moonbow

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Robby Chadwell, Filmmaker-Moonbow

Film director and writer William Robert Chadwell is a Corbin native who grew up watching classic 80’s films, idolizing people like Steven Spielberg and dreaming of one day producing a film of his own.  With no formal filmmaking experience Chadwell has made that dream come true with his first film, Moonbow.  Growing up in and around Cumberland Falls in southern Kentucky Chadwell had always heard the urban legends and myths surrounding the famous moonbow.  It’s a phenomena that happens when there is full moon over Cumberland Falls.

Chadwell’s film, Moonbow follows friends on an overnight camping trip that quickly learn the legends and stories surrounding the hills around them just might be true.  Shot on two Samsung Galaxy 9 phones and with a budget of $5000 this is Chadwell’s first film that is now showing in select places.

Oct 03, 201917:10
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Whitney Austin, Whitney Strong Foundation

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Whitney Austin, Whitney Strong Foundation

On September 6, 2018 a routine walk into work for 38-year-old Whitney Austin turned in anything but routine.  Austin, who is from Louisville was on a conference call while walking into the Fifth Third Office Tower in downtown Cincinnati when she found herself in the middle of an active shooting scene.  Austin was shot 12 times and played dead so the shooter would not shoot her again.  In those moments while fighting for her life Austin made a decision that if she lived she would make it here life’s work to fight for gun safety and advocate for change when it comes to our laws.  She survived and now the wife and mother runs Whitney Strong, a foundation that promotes awareness and aims to continue the conversation of stopping gun violence while sparking change.

Sep 26, 201922:38
Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Nick Laracuente, Bourbon Archaeologist

Uniquely Kentucky with Amber Philpott | Nick Laracuente, Bourbon Archaeologist

Bourbon is just one of the things Kentucky is known for and its history is as rich as its taste. The stories behind the bottles though are an even bigger part of the experience.  We know the distilleries of today, but what about those distilleries of days gone by and the stories that may have went with it.  One man is using his love of history and archaeology to find those forgotten landmarks and help us all get a better taste of the state’s signature drink through the stories and people who were distilling spirits long ago.

September is Archaeology Month in the bluegrass and the guest in this edition of Uniquely Kentucky is a man who has been digging up the past and the stories behind some of Kentucky’s forgotten distilleries and has come to be known as a “Bourbon Archaeologist.”  Nick Laracuente helped with the uncovering of a rare find at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Franklin Co in 2016. He helped with the discovery of what has come to be known as Bourbon Pompeii, a distillery dating back to the 1800s that had been filled in and built over until it was unearthed for visitors to see.

Sep 19, 201932:03