My American Journey

Earl "The Wildman" Baldwins' greatest influence is his grandfather, Johnny Baldwin, born and raised in the mountains of East Tennessee. Johnny shares his story of the place he grew up, Calderwood, which has long since faded away, swallowed up by climbing kudzu and the passing of time. Earl shares the impact Johnny had on his own life as he spins his tale with humor and wit.

Learn about Earls life philosophy a little thing called "Living the Dream". Earl will show you how you could be living the dream also. Earl talks about his sweet little wife, and marriage and how that's affected everything. We go on location at Earls shop where he will be making things for people with his two hands. He'll be taking the bull by the horns this time around, so stick around.

It's all about music, and what music has meant to Earl and his life. You'll be introduced to somebody that means a lot to Earl, his former partner in crime, Jackie Lee Wilburn. Jackie is a fantastic young musician and an awesome entertainer. Together they tell some stories from back in the day, and visit Walland, Tennessee, and the Rocky Branch Community Center formerly the Rocky Branch School.

It's all about adventure. Join Earl as he gets out in it. Living the American dream and adventureing out in some amazing country in East Tennessee, the historic Cherokee wetlands of Tanasi and then high up on the majestic Cherohala Skyway. Come along with us. Kick your shoes off, and get barefoot. That's what it's all about. Adventure on, baby.

There is nothing like watching a kid getting outdoors and learning what it is all about. With his storytelling brilliance, Earl takes us along the Hiawassee River, and humorously shares the importance of taking kids fishing and outdoors in general. Get them off the couch, put them outside. With more folks outdoors, there would be far less people getting offended and far more people catching fish.

We're headed to Fort Loudon State Historic area and we're jumping in our time machine with Earl, stepping back, and we're taking a look at how people did things in the 18th Century. There's a lot of action, and lots of people in old timey regalia running around. It is a really cool place and a really cool thing to be part of. And, for the first time, you actually get to meet Mrs. Wildman.

Learn about all of Earl's favorite little hiding places, an escape from the everyday foolishness of life. Places that help eliminate stress. Places God put here for us to enjoy. When you get too much clutter, too much city air, too many car horns blowing, and too much negativity, find yourself a hiding place, and let it all go. Get yourself centered to nature, be quiet, and just enjoy the "IS".