Musical Miles Podcast

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We caught up with Heath Wright—founder of Ricochet and a member of the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame—at Stoney's Rockin' Country in Las Vegas, where the energy of classic country filled the room. Heath took us back to the band’s breakout success, including their No. 1 hit Daddy's Money, and shared stories of the road that’s kept Ricochet going strong for decades. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of a true honky-tonk venue, we talked about building a lasting legacy, staying true to their signature harmonies, and the connection they continue...

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Whitefish, Montana artist Tim Torgerson—songwriter, performer, multi-instrumentalist, and dedicated music teacher—for a laid-back conversation that perfectly captured the spirit of the Flathead Valley music scene. From his passion for teaching the next generation of musicians to his work as a part-time fixture at Slow Burn Records, Tim shared how music weaves through every part of his life. Whether he’s on stage, in the classroom, or behind the counter talking vinyl, his love for the craft and the community around it shines through in everything he does.

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We caught up with rising “Cali Country” artist Presley Aronson during the high-energy chaos of the Rio Roundup in Las Vegas, where his passion for both music and storytelling was on full display. Presley shared how he’s carving out his own lane in country music, blending West Coast influence with heartfelt, message-driven songwriting. We also dove into his collaboration with country artist Jimmie Allen and what that experience meant for his growth as an artist. From the inspiration behind his anti-bullying anthem “Background” to his journey from acting and filmmaking into music, Presley op...

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We sat down with rising country traditionalist Sterling Drake to dig into a life shaped by contrast, culture, and a calling to roam. Growing up in South Florida with the influence of his family’s ranching roots and his mother’s Miami upbringing, Sterling developed a sound that blends grit, soul, and authenticity. That early foundation sparked a restless journey that took him from the Northeast to the wide-open spaces of Montana, and eventually to Nashville. But it was in Montana where everything clicked—the cowboy lifestyle spoke loudest, grounding him in a way no...

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We caught up with Derik Caswell of the Neon Prophets during the Rio Roundup at the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, where the high-energy 90’s country cover band was headlining and bringing the house down. Derik shared the story behind the band’s rise, their love for the golden era of country music, and how they’ve built a loyal following by delivering spot-on performances of the songs that defined a generation. From Brooks & Dunn to Garth Brooks, the Neon Prophets don’t just play the hits—they recreate the feeling of a time whe...

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“From Wyoming Bars to Montana Roots: The Tomara Conrad Story”We had the pleasure of sitting down with Montana singer-songwriter Tomara Conrad during the Whitefish Songwriter Festival at Slow Burn Records, where her authentic storytelling and raw, heartfelt delivery truly stood out. Tomara took us back to her early days growing up in Pinedale, cutting her teeth playing in local bars before stepping into the national spotlight on reality TV. After spending a decade in Los Angeles chasing the dream, she ultimately found her true sense of home and purpose back in Montana—workin...

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We caught up with rising Australian singer-songwriter Lily Grace during the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, and her journey is as impressive as it is inspiring. From busking on the streets of the Gold Coast to making the leap to Nashville, Lily shared what it takes to chase a dream halfway across the world. We talked about her early start in music, the influence of both Australian and American country sounds, and how experiences on the road continue to shape her songwriting. Surrounded by the energy of NFR, Lily brought a fresh...

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We sat down for our second interview with Nashville No. 1 hitmaker Kat Higgins, and this conversation was as heartfelt as it was powerful. Kat opened up about the recent loss of her close friend and co-writer Brett James, who tragically lost his life in a private plane crash, and how that loss has given the song “Knowing You”—a No. 1 hit for megastar Kenny Chesney—an entirely new and deeply emotional meaning. What was once a beautifully crafted song now carries a weight of real-life grief and gratitude, making every lyric hit even harder. In the m...

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We caught up with the multi-talented Hollywood Yates during the National Finals Rodeo while he was headlining the Rio Roundup at the Rio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Known for living a life that sounds like a country song, Hollywood shared stories from his days as a fearless bull fighter in the rodeo arena, protecting riders and working the dirt during some of rodeo’s biggest events. He also reflected on his time on television as a competitor on American Gladiator, adding another chapter to his already colorful career. Today, Hollywood has tr...

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During our Coffee and Conversations session at the Whitefish Songwriter Festival, we had the chance to sit down with singer-songwriter Haley Johnsen for an honest and powerful conversation about the journey that shaped her as an artist. Haley shared how music was woven into her life from an early age, heavily influenced by her parents—especially her dad, a drummer who helped spark her passion for performing. We also talked about her experience as a contestant on American Idol, and how the intensity of that time left a lasting emotional impact that she st...

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During the Rio Roundup, part of the National Finals Rodeo experience held each December in Las Vegas, we caught up with headliner Matt Farris, an Arizona native whose musical journey has come full circle. Matt shared how winning a singing contest in college unexpectedly launched his career and led him to Nashville, where he spent nearly a decade honing his craft where he was signed with a Nashville label. Now back in the state he loves, Matt talked with us about returning to his Arizona roots, the lessons he learned in Music City...

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Kalyn Beasley joins us once again for Round 3 on the Musical Miles Podcast, this time during the Whitefish Songwriter Festival in Whitefish, Montana. The Cody, Wyoming singer-songwriter sits down with us to talk about his latest single from his album Ranchin Rich, a project that captures the grit, humor, and authentic Western storytelling that Kalyn has become known for. Growing up in the heart of cowboy country has clearly shaped his music, and we dive into the inspiration behind the new single, life on the road, and the real-life experiences that fuel his...

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Jeffrey “Danger” Krantz, a dynamic artist known for his electrifying stage presence and rock-driven sound. During our time in Las Vegas, we caught up with this high-energy musician and performer who we were introduced through a mutual friend, Jonathan Adamson. Jonathan happens to be from my hometown in Idaho—another reminder of how small the music world can be. Jeffrey shared stories from his journey through the music scene, including countless nights performing in Nashville on Lower Broadway, where he honed his craft in front of some of the toughest crowds in live music...

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During our sit-down with Wyatt McCubbin in Whitefish, Montana, he opened up about a journey that started in small-town Ohio and led him straight to the heart of Nashville’s songwriting community. He talks about how he traveled from home to Nashville every other week from a very young age to develop his songwriting skills and build relationships. 

Wyatt shared how cutting his teeth as a teenage radio DJ on a classic country station helped shape his deep respect for the legends, while moving to Music City forced him to sharpen his...

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During the electric energy of the NFR in Las Vegas and the excitement surrounding the Rio Roundup, we caught up with Nashville singer/songwriter Justin Andrews for a conversation that perfectly matched the spirit of rodeo week. With boots on the ground and country music pouring out of every venue, Justin shared his journey from Oklahoma roots to grinding it out in Nashville honky-tonks, and how signing with Sea Gayle Music has opened new doors in his songwriting career. We talked about the stories behind his songs, the blue-collar work ethic that still...

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In our second sit-down with Washington State native turned Nashville singer/songwriter Jess Jocoy, we caught up on just how far she’s come since our first conversation. This time, the spotlight was on her powerful new album Cul-de-Sac Kid—a deeply personal project that she quite literally built from the ground up. Jess shared how she courageously launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund her studio time, rallying her fans and leaning into community support, and we were proud to have Musical Miles help spread the word and champion her vision. Beyond the musi...

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We sat down with Texas-born blonde bombshell Caroline Woodfill to talk about her bold leap from the Lone Star State to Nashville, where she’s chasing her dream of becoming a touring headline artist. With undeniable charisma, striking stage presence, and a relentless work ethic, Caroline shared what it takes to leave home, bet on yourself, and grind it out in Music City. Our conversation covered her Texas roots, the influences shaping her sound, and the determination driving her forward as she builds her career one song and one show at a time. An...

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Even Stevens is a legendary Nashville songwriter whose career spans decades, with thousands of songs written, numerous No. 1 hits, and a Grammy Award to his credit. He is a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, a distinction reserved for writers whose work has significantly shaped the fabric of American music.

One of Even Stevens’ most notable co-writers was Eddie Rabbitt.
Stevens and Rabbitt had a highly successful songwriting partnership in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Together, they co-wrote several major hits, including:
“I Love a Rainy Nigh...

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Sitting down with Sammy Kershaw inside the legendary Frank Sinatra dressing room at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas felt like stepping into living music history. Surrounded by the echoes of iconic performances, we talked about his Louisiana roots, the rise of his 90s country hits like “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful” and “Cadillac Style,” and what it means to stay true to traditional country in an ever-changing industry. Sammy was candid, reflective, and full of stories from the road—sharing hard-earned lessons, career highs, and the passion that still drives him to the sta...

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Along with her Southern Charm and musical DNA, Hannah Belle has all the makings of being a Country Music Star! Raised in a musical family with her Preacher Rockstar daddy you might say Hannah didn't choose a career in music, it chose her.

She tells us she has been singing since before she could really even talk, loud and proud in church from the sweet age of 3. She has always been passionate about music, and told her parents from a very young age that she wanted to be a Country Music...

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There is REAL HOPE for the FUTURE of COUNRY MUSIC ~ MAE ESTES!

We sat down with rising country music star Mae Estes for a conversation that proves the future of country music is in good hands. With her Hope, Arkansas roots, powerhouse vocals, and a deep respect for traditional country storytelling, Mae shared how her journey from small-town beginnings to the Nashville spotlight has shaped her sound and her work ethic. We talked about the grind of building a career in Music City, the inspiration behind her songs, and the importance...

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Absolutely one of our favorite songwriters, we had the privilege of sitting down for our second interview with Nashville #1 hitmaker Brice Long in beautiful Whitefish during the songwriter festival. Once again hosted at Slow Burn Records as part of “Coffee and Conversations,” this follow-up visit felt even deeper and more relaxed — like catching up with an old friend who just happens to be one of Nashville’s finest craftsmen. Brice reflected on the evolution of his songwriting journey, the stories behind his No. 1 hits, and what continues to inspire him creatively. There’s something...

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During our interview with Caden Gillard and his band, we dug into the real-life stories that fuel his music—from growing up in Louisiana and surviving childhood leukemia to life on the rodeo circuit as a professional bull rider before fully committing to music. Caden also opened up about stepping into a brand-new role as a father and how that season of life is already influencing his perspective, priorities, and songwriting. Joined by his band, we talked about life on the road, the chemistry behind their high-energy live shows, and how blending red di...

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Our interview with North Texas artist Tyler Bond was a thoughtful dive into songwriting, place, and personal growth. Born in Flower Mound and now rooted in Denton, Tyler shared how the move shaped his sound and creative outlook, drawing inspiration from the area’s vibrant music community. We talked about his approach to honest, stripped-down songwriting, the stories behind his songs, and how life experiences continue to influence his evolving style. It was a relaxed, genuine conversation that highlighted Tyler’s Texas roots and the authenticity that shines through his music.

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We met up with singer/songwriter Joshua Michael Piper during the Valley Music Festival in Sun Valley, ID and had a chance to sit down for a quick visit on the podcast. Joshua lives and performs in the Pacific Northwest, with deep family ties to South East Idaho. We talked about his musical influences from this Grandparents, Parents as well as an Uncle that made lasting impressions on this artist and his music at a very young age. 


Unfortunately our conversation was cut short when we were interrupted by a p...

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Our interview with Keven Thomas dove into the unlikely and inspiring path that brought his music to a wider audience, as fame came to this relatively unknown artist through the power of the internet. Keven shared how an organic online moment turned into real momentum, introducing his honest, Kentucky-rooted songwriting to listeners far beyond his home state. We talked about how that sudden visibility impacted his career, the importance of staying grounded while navigating new opportunities, and how authenticity still drives every song he writes. It was a genuine conversation about modern success...

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Our interview with Robert Henry was a thoughtful, down-to-earth conversation rooted in the heart of country music storytelling. We talked about his journey as an independent artist, the personal experiences that shape his songwriting, and his deep respect for the traditions of country music while still carving out his own sound. Robert shared what inspires him both on and off the road, the importance of authenticity in his songs, and how connecting with fans keeps him grounded as an artist. It was an honest and engaging discussion that highlights not only his music...

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We sat down with Texas artist Logan Ryan for a great conversation about the legendary musicians who shaped the Lone Star State sound and the iconic venues that keep that tradition alive today. From the historic stages of New Braunfels and San Marcos to the legendary rooms of Fort Worth, Logan shared his perspective on what it means to follow in the footsteps of giants while carving out his own path as a Texas songwriter and performer.

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 The Filthy Heathens came together during the chaos of the pandemic, brought together by a shared instinct to play loud, honest music with no safety net. What began with the chemistry between Bronson Hetzer, Ryan Palcic, and “Captain” Craig Bishop, took shape fast when guitarists Cody Doench and Dawson Stepp joined the fold. Five members. No brakes.

I sat down with The Filthy Heathens for a high-energy, no-filter conversation about their raw approach to rock-driven country and the road-tested grit that fuels their sound. We talked about how the band came toget...

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In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Musical Miles Podcast, we sit down with Project K9 Heroes CEO Jason Johnson to hear the remarkable story of how one man’s $500 out-of-pocket commitment turned into a nationwide mission that has raised more than $30 million to care for retired police and military K9 service dogs. Jason also shares details about the upcoming 5th Annual “Performers for Paws” fundraising event, happening January 29th at the Nashville Palace, featuring 22 musical artists coming together to support Project K9 Heroes and help ensure these four-legged heroes receive the medica...

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 In this special year-end episode, hosts Byron and Shanda sit down to reflect on an unforgettable 2025 for the Musical Miles Podcast—a year filled with hundreds of interviews, thousands of miles on the road, and conversations with everyone from rising independent artists to legendary songwriters with multiple No. 1 hits. They share behind-the-scenes stories from festivals, long drives, and unforgettable moments with guests, while also opening up about the challenges and rewards of building the podcast along the way. Looking ahead to 2026, Byron and Shanda outline their biggest goals yet: expanding their festival coverage, gro...

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Salinas Road joined us on the podcast in Sun Valley, Idaho, where the California duo opened up about the contrasting paths that shaped their shared sound. Paul Cruz grew up near the beach, influenced by the rhythm of the coast and the laid-back energy of ocean life, while Bill Jones spent his youth in the mountains of Southeast California, hunting with his dad and learning the values of patience, grit, and self-reliance. Together, those two worlds—coastal and high desert—collide in their music, creating a balance of openness and grounded storytelling. From thei...

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TRIGGER WARNING: In this episode we discuss addiction and Suicidal Ideation. If you're having issues with drugs or alcohol abuse or having suicidal thoughts, HELP IS AVAILABLE 24/7 Dial 988! Please reach out to someone today. You are loved and needed.

At the VALLEY Music Fest, I had the opportunity to sit down with Andru Jamison for a powerful and deeply human interview that went far beyond music. We talked about his military career and the lasting impact it had on his life, leading into honest conversations about addiction, recovery, and the long...

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Our interview with Magic Valley artist Aaron Golay also highlighted the creative partnership he shares with his best friend and bass player, Mark Grupert of the band "Original Sin". Golay described how their long-standing friendship and musical collaboration have shaped his artistic direction, blending visual art and sound into a shared creative language. Grupert’s steady presence and musical instincts, he explained, bring balance and depth to their work, reinforcing the sense of community and collaboration that defines Golay’s approach. Together, their bond reflects the spirit of the Magic Valley & Treasure Valley root...

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Bruce Folk of Mountain Home, ID not only shares the same hometown as the Idaho Music Legend Pinto Bennett but the same love of songwriting and music as Pinto. Growing up in the shadow of his Guitar slinging dad and surrounded by his musician buddies, Bruce developed a knack for songwriting at an early age, but was a little slower at developing his live stage performances. He has worked and played in dive bars all over Idaho and Montana but most recently had a chance to take the big stage at his first...

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In this episode, we sit down with Joe Jordan, an indie artist whose music has connected with millions of listeners online. Joe opens up about the role family has played in shaping who he is, the musical influences that guided his sound, and his honest journey through addiction and recovery. We also dive into how authenticity and consistency helped fuel his online success, proving that real stories still resonate in a digital world.

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Our interview with Josh Mitcham offered a thoughtful look at his evolution from fronting a band to fully stepping into life as a solo artist. Josh reflected on the creative and personal shift of moving beyond the collaborative dynamic of a group and finding his own voice as a solo songwriter and performer. We also discussed his background as a high school agriculture teacher and educator, and the pivotal decision to transition into a role that gives him greater flexibility to focus on writing music, touring, and building a sustainable creative life. That...

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Our interview with Hayden Blount at the Valley Music Fest was engaging and down-to-earth. Surrounded by live music and an excited crowd, he talked about his songwriting process, what inspires his sound, and how performing at a community-driven festival influences his work. He shared his appreciation for the fans and the atmosphere of the event, giving the conversation a genuine and approachable feel while offering insight into his growth as an artist.

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Mars Daniels is an American singer-songwriter blending country grit with outlaw spirit, with roots in the wide-open plains of Iowa and the high-lonesome landscapes of Montana.We sat down with Mars for a candid visit during the Valley Music Fest in Sun Valley, ID this past September. Enjoy our converstation.

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During the Valley Music Fest, we had the chance to sit down with Colby Acuff for a thoughtful and grounded conversation rooted in songwriting, place, and purpose. Raised in Idaho, Colby shared how the landscapes and small-town experiences of the West continue to shape his honest, story-driven approach to Americana and country music. We talked about his journey from regional stages to national recognition, the importance of staying authentic in his writing, and how his songs reflect real life, hard work, and the communities that raised him. It was a meaningful discussion that...