K-Town Connection

30/10/2025

Filmed on location in the heart of beautiful downtown Kannapolis, this week’s episode takes us back to Towel City Tavern for a second visit — and this time, we made sure everything met our high standards!

We sit down with Steve Steinbacher and General Manager Chelsea Doyle to talk about all the exciting new things happening at the restaurant, including a refreshed menu, the addition of a Sunday brunch, and expanded outdoor seating — both on the terrace overlooking the ballpark and now along the sidewalk café-style.

It’s a fun and lively conversation that still delivers plenty of great info for locals and visitors alike. As always, the show is hosted by the — Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault — joined by Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin.

💍 Bonus note: This episode hit the air a little later than usual because Chris had some big news — he’s officially a newlywed! Join us in congratulating Chris and his new bride, Heather!

Filmed on location in the heart of beautiful downtown Kannapolis, this week’s episode takes us back to Towel City Tavern for a second visit — and this time, ...

09/10/2025

If you’re within an earshot of us here at the Towel City Tavern, come check out a live recording of our show.

03/10/2025

Here are some cool behind the scenes photos from our show with Kannapolis City Schools legend Doris Buchanan.

Be sure to check our Episode 51, this offers a glimpse into some early days of Kannapolis, including Mrs. Buchanan’s time living in Mary Ella Hall downtown in the 1950’s.

02/10/2025

In Episode 51 of the K-Town Connection Podcast, the Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, welcome a true Kannapolis treasure—Doris Buchanan. At 93 years old, Doris reflects on her remarkable 70+ years in Kannapolis, where she dedicated her life to education and community service.

Beginning her career in 1952, hired by then-superintendent W.J. Bullock, Doris served Kannapolis City Schools as a teacher, principal, administrator, and eventually as a member of the Board of Education—continuing to serve well into her 80s. Her lifelong commitment to education has left an indelible mark on generations of students and families across Kannapolis.

Beyond her professional achievements, Doris shares stories of her early years in town, including living in Mary Ella Hall in the 1950s, as well as her ongoing devotion to her faith community at Trinity Methodist Church, where she still remains active today.

This heartfelt episode, filmed in the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage, captures not only the incredible story of a lifelong educator but also the history and spirit of Kannapolis itself.

In Episode 51 of the K-Town Connection Podcast, the Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, welcome a true Kanna...

25/09/2025

K-Town Connection Episode 50: Bill Cannon on the Legacy of Charles A. Cannon and the Birth of Kannapolis

In Episode 50 of the K-Town Connection Podcast, the Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, welcome William C. “Bill” Cannon, Jr., grandson of the late Charles A. Cannon and president of the Board of Directors for the Cannon Foundation.

Filmed in the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage, this milestone episode takes listeners on a journey through the early days of Kannapolis. Bill Cannon shares personal reflections and stories about his grandfather’s life, the founding of the mill, and the challenges faced in building a community from the ground up.

With rich details of how the mill persevered through uncertainty and ultimately became the heart of Kannapolis, this episode is both a history lesson and a tribute to the resilience of the town and its people.

For anyone who loves the history of Kannapolis, its mill heritage, and the legacy of the Cannon family, this is an unforgettable episode you won’t want to miss.

In Episode 50 of the K-Town Connection Podcast, the Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, welcome William C. “...

19/09/2025

Filmed in the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage, the Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, sit down with lifelong Kannapolis resident Mike Herman for an unforgettable conversation.

Mike shares stories of growing up in Kannapolis, his two decades of service with the Kannapolis Police Department, and his time working on the pit crew of local legend and 7-time NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt. Along the way, he reflects on the early days of Kannapolis, the memories of Idiot’s Circle, and entertaining behind-the-scenes moments with Earnhardt.

The conversation also highlights Mike’s experiences in owning and managing a race team for his son, Mike Herman Jr., adding another layer of racing history to this hometown tale.

Packed with incredible stories, community pride, and a few laughs, this episode is a must-watch for fans of Kannapolis history, NASCAR, and local storytelling. Don’t forget to like our page, subscribe, and share the show with friends!

Filmed in the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage, the Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, along with Chuck “Dr. Dave” Irvin, sit down with lifelon...

19/09/2025

Storytime: Mike Herman recalls the unforgettable day when 7-time NASCAR Champion Dale Earnhardt “borrowed” his Kannapolis Police car—then tore through town on a joyride, siren blaring the whole way!

Don’t miss the full episode, packed with incredible stories from lifelong Kannapolis resident Mike Herman, former pit crew member for our hometown hero.

The full episode will drop later tonight so stay tuned!

18/09/2025

Brothers Tire Sales has earned our family's absolute trust, and we only bring our vehicles to them.

Todd Haley and his team have become like family, and we appreciate their dedication to the community, which they have served for over 65 years from their location on North Main Street in Kannapolis.

12/09/2025

Chad Bearden is a country music artist, podcaster, and proud Kannapolis resident with a story that spans from small-town Alabama to the heart of Nashville. Chad began his career serving his community as a police officer, but ultimately followed his lifelong passion for music, making the bold move to Tennessee to pursue a career as a country music performer and songwriter.

His journey eventually brought him to Kannapolis—first as a touring musician playing local venues, and later as a citizen who embraced the community as his own. Beyond the stage, Chad’s talents and charisma have also found a home in the world of NASCAR, where he hosts the popular podcast Checkers, Wreckers and What the Heckers, blending racing culture with his trademark humor and storytelling.

With his unique background in law enforcement, music, and motorsports, Chad brings an authentic voice to every project he takes on. In this episode, filmed at the historic Dayvault’s Dyno Garage with the Chris Hughes and Ryan Dayvault, listeners will enjoy an entertaining and insightful conversation that connects the worlds of country music, NASCAR, and community life in Kannapolis.

Chad Bearden is a country music artist, podcaster, and proud Kannapolis resident with a story that spans from small-town Alabama to the heart of Nashville. C...

11/09/2025

Joining the Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes is Christina Wright, a real estate investor and partner at Branch Wealth Partners, where she helps clients in Kannapolis and beyond develop strategies for building financial freedom through real estate.

Joining the Ryan Dayvault and Chris Hughes is Christina Wright, a real estate investor and partner at Branch Wealth Partners, where she hel...

05/09/2025

In this episode, we sit down with NASCAR driver Corey LaJoie, a fan favorite known for his grit, humor, and passion for racing. From growing up in a racing family to carving out his own path in the NASCAR Cup Series, Corey shares stories from the track, his personal journey, and what keeps him motivated in one of America’s most demanding sports.

Whether you’re a lifelong Kannapolis resident, a NASCAR enthusiast, or simply someone who loves great hometown stories, this episode will give you an inside look at racing culture and the people who keep it alive.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to K-Town Connection for more conversations with the people shaping the heart and history of Kannapolis.

The 5th Annual Corey LaJoie Kickball Klassic will take October 2nd at Atrium Health Ballpark.

In this episode, we sit down with NASCAR driver Corey LaJoie, a fan favorite known for his grit, humor, and passion for racing. From growing up in a racing f...