Back in Action: Josh Fires Up the Still for a Massive Moonshine Run in North Carolina
North Carolina – Tonight marks a big milestone for Josh as he returns to the still site on his own turf, determined to prove he’s more than just a supporting player in the moonshining world. With his trusted friend Big Chuck by his side, Josh sets out to tackle a 450-gallon corn run, aiming to deliver a large order for his friends in the racing world—and to show he’s ready for the next level.
“This is my first time back in action without having everybody to fall on,” Josh admits. “I’ve got to be the main man and make it happen.”
A Simple Run with High Stakes
Despite calling it a “simple corn run,” there’s nothing small about the job. The massive steel still, capable of holding 450 gallons, promises a serious yield—and serious income. With pressure high and orders waiting, Josh and Chuck jump into action.
The process is methodical but peppered with laughter and camaraderie. As Chuck spots Josh adding in barley and other “secret ingredients,” he jokes, “Now how am I going to learn to make this beautiful mountain whiskey with all these secrets?”
Josh laughs it off: “If you just follow the general rule, you’ll be good to go.”
Learning and Leveling Up
Though Josh is in charge, he’s also eager to learn—especially about techniques he’s never tried before, like running on the grain.
“It’s my first time ever mashing in and then running it in the same pot,” Josh says. “I’m excited to be here and just get all the little tips and tricks I can.”
The partnership is more than practical. Chuck previously helped Josh financially after a tough crash, and now he’s lending his hands and heart in person.
“The fact you came all the way up here to help me, after you done gave me some money to help me out—you’re part of our crew,” Josh says emotionally. “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you.”
Secrets of the Craft—and Brotherhood
While Josh is generous with gratitude, he’s a little more protective of his moonshine secrets. Chuck, ever curious, keeps asking about ingredients and methods.
“He wants to know everything, and I ain’t giving away all my secrets,” Josh jokes. “All you need to know is, I came all the way to North Carolina, I put corn and sugar in there—I don’t know a damn other thing about it.”
As the sugar dissolves and the grains steep to perfection, the two men cap the still and call it a night.
Pain, Purpose, and Passion
Physically, the work takes its toll. Josh is clearly hurting, but there’s a glimmer of pride behind every ache.
“I hurt like hell all the time, and all this work makes me hurt even more,” he says. “But the fact that what we’ve just done—that makes it all worthwhile.”
And for a man who doesn’t drink his own product, Josh walks away from the night with something even stronger than shine: purpose, pride, and the kind of loyalty you can’t distill.
