TOP STORY OF THE DAY - The Diner Podcast

Monday, February 19, 2024
SUBMITTED PHOTO - The Diner Podcast is the dream child of Evan Moore and Jared Lumsdon, two lifelong residents of Clay County.

Sometimes, you must take a chance for a dream to become a reality.

The Diner Podcast is the dream child of Jared Lumsdon and Evan Moore, two lifelong residents of Clay County, taking the opportunity to have fun and entertain the masses on the Internet.

The idea sparked into life while the two friends were driving home from a sporting event having a lively “cool” discussion about life, being parents and families, and one turned to the other and said, “We should record this; it is so funny.”

A few discussions and texts later, they agreed to make it happen.

But what would they call it?

Moore said The Diner Podcast’s origins started 10-14 years ago when he admittedly flunked out of college and got a job at a local industry.

“Worst two weeks of my life, I hated it,” said Moore, who admitted he began going to his friend’s house instead of work to hang out. “My parents then told me I had to get a job. So, every day I would leave like going to work, come back to my buddy’s house, who worked the night shift at Walmart, eating my lunch while he had breakfast,”

The running gag was there was always a table open at the diner, thus the name The Diner Podcast with the motto, “Everyone has a story to tell The Diner Podcast.”

The duo has recorded 70 shows so far, with just over 60 airing in the podcast since June 2023.

Lumsdon and Moore both agree the journey, though a bit shaky at first, was only possible with the support of their families and the community.

“They’re on board. It took some time, but our wives support us,” said Lumsdon, with Moore adding, “Our kids think it’s cool. They love wearing their Diner Podcast shirts to school.”

Both men were born and raised in Brazil and admit to loving the small-town life and sharing it with others.

“Sharing what is positive about living in a small town is incredible,” said Lumsdon, whose family has owned body and auto shops in the area for years. “Many people talk about it being bad, but if you just stop and look around, taking the time to learn about the small things, the history? There is a lot of wonderful history and amazing personal stories.”

Moore’s family has had a farm in Clay County for over 200 years.

“So we have some really deep roots in this community,” said Moore. “I have never left this community, and I never want to. Brazil is a great place for a family; it has an amazing history and people. That is what this podcast is all about.”

When asked what their favorite story on the podcast out of 70 has been, they looked at each for a moment and said there have been so many great ones it is hard to pick.

Interviewing people like Tyler Hutcheson and J.T. Jeffries shows that dreams can begin and take you anywhere.

However, a recent interview with a local man’s journey conquering addiction takes the top spot.

Their wish guest?

“Mayor Brian Wyndham,” said Lumsdon. “I think the story about what he’s done for this town is amazing. We would love to have him on the show.”

The two friends are like brothers, even looking similar.

“Hey, I have been known to stay on the couch at Jared’s parents’ house a few times,” said Moore. “We have been friends since we were teenagers.”

Evan and Jasmine Moore have three children, while Jared and Bailey Lumsdom have two. They all live in Brazil and are active in the community while chasing their dreams to spread the joys and positivity of small-town life through social media.

Lumsdon and Moore offer a tip for those dreaming of their journey, “If you feel like you want to do something - whatever comes your way - just keep pushing through it. You will get through it.”

Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: