Bison Heads and Spy Accusations - A Chat with Alexis Wilkins :: Ep 67 Try That in a Small Town Podcast

What happens when passion for country music collides with unwavering values? Alexis Wilkins, singer-songwriter and political commentator, takes us on her extraordinary journey from writing songs at age six to navigating the complex landscape of today's music industry.

Alexis shares the fascinating story of how reading a Smithsonian article about coal fires as a child sparked her songwriting career, recording her first song on an American Girl doll tape recorder. Her path took unexpected turns from England to Switzerland to Arkansas, eventually leading to Nashville where she discovered that staying true to her values would come at a professional cost.

"They want to turn on the radio and be able to listen to it with their kids in the car. They don't want to have to make a moral decision every time they go to pick a song," Alexis explains about country music fans, cutting to the heart of the disconnect between industry gatekeepers and audiences. She candidly discusses being asked to remove the American flag from her social media, receiving failing grades from politically-opposed professors, and finding her voice as an advocate for veterans and law enforcement.

The conversation takes fascinating detours through her collection of taxidermied animals (including a bison head and cowboys-dressed squirrels), her defense of Jason Aldean's "Try That in a Small Town," and her relationship with FBI Director Cash amidst bizarre internet rumors. Throughout it all, Alexis demonstrates why authentic voices matter in country music and beyond.

Alexis announces her American Heroes Foundation and "Back the Badge" tour, showing how she's channeling her passion for music into tangible support for those who serve. Whether you're a country music fan, concerned about cultural divides, or simply appreciate stories of integrity against the odds, this episode delivers powerful insights about staying true to yourself when it matters most.