Bar Talk Happy Hour

This week on Bar Talk Happy Hour, we’re diving into one of the strangest holiday trends taking over TikTok: folks washing their Christmas trees… yes, washing them. From artificial trees getting hosed down in backyards to real trees getting a full bath before the lights go on, videos are popping up everywhere showing dirt, dust, and mystery debris swirling away. Some families swear it helps with allergies, while experts warn not to rinse pre-lit trees and say that for real evergreens, a simple shake will do the job just fine. Even the Iowa State University Extension notes that any bugs hitching a ride usually die off quickly indoors and aren’t a real concern. Of course, Odie Coyote has thoughts — and he doesn’t hold back. Expect plenty of laughs as he wonders why anyone would spend time and energy washing a Christmas tree when they could just put the dang thing up, crack open a beer, and relax while the kids tear into their presents. Tune in for holiday fun, good music, and Odie’s signature no-nonsense take on seasonal silliness.

This week on Bar Talk Happy Hour, we dive into a heavy headline shaking the Texas Country world. Parker McCollum has fired assistant road manager Joel Schoepf after Schoepf was arrested in New Braunfels for online solicitation of a minor under 14. With details emerging from the sting operation and Schoepf’s long history in the Texas and Red Dirt touring scene, the story raises difficult questions about safety, accountability, and how artists respond when someone inside their camp is accused of something this serious. Odie Coyote and Producer Raven share their takes on McCollum’s immediate action, the impact this kind of news has on fans and the industry, and what it means when someone with decades of experience in the scene suddenly faces charges like this. It’s a tough topic—but an important one—and we’re bringing thoughtful, honest conversation to the table.

This week on Bar Talk Happy Hour, we dive into Luke Combs’ dream of one day taking the stage at the Super Bowl halftime show. During a fun appearance on ESPN’s MNF Manningcast, Combs told Peyton and Eli Manning that he’d absolutely welcome the chance to headline the Big Game — and that his ultimate fantasy would be doing it the same year his beloved Carolina Panthers make it to the Super Bowl. We’ll break down the clip, talk about his longtime loyalty to the Panthers (including his recent merch collab with the team), and clear up the rumors — because Combs made it clear he’s not hinting at anything for 2026. Plus, Odie Coyote and Producer Raven weigh in on whether a country halftime show is overdue and what a Luke Combs Super Bowl setlist might look like.

This week on Bar Talk Happy Hour, we’re breaking down all the excitement from the 2025 CMA Awards—where Lainey Wilson hosted the night solo and absolutely owned it. From her Album of the Year win for Whirlwind to the electrifying medley she kicked off alongside Little Big Town and Keith Urban, the show was packed with big moments and even bigger performances. We’ll talk through all the major wins, including Ella Langley and Riley Green sweeping both Single and Song of the Year with “You Look Like You Love Me,” plus Zach Top snagging New Artist of the Year. Brooks & Dunn kept their legendary streak alive, Vince Gill received the coveted Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, and the stage lit up with performances from Luke Combs, Brandi Carlile, Chris Stapleton, Kelsea Ballerini, Zach Top, and more. And of course—Keith Urban’s big return made for one unforgettable highlight. Tune in as Odie Coyote and Producer Raven recap every can’t-miss moment!

This week on Bar Talk Happy Hour, we’re spotlighting some heartwarming news from the Johnson household—Cody Johnson and his wife Brandi have welcomed their third child and first son, Jaycee Daniel Johnson. After years of raising two daughters, Clara and Cori, the Johnsons are officially a family of five, and Cody couldn’t be more excited for the new adventures that come with having a boy. We’ll share the full story of the announcement—and Odie Coyote will be giving his honest, unfiltered reaction to the news, including what this father-son milestone might mean for the country star as he recovers from his recent ear surgery and looks ahead to returning to the road in 2026.