Musical Miles Podcast

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The Hurdy Gurdy Girls are an all-female roots music trio from Hailey, Idaho, known for blending old-time string band traditions with the grit and spirit of outlaw country. Drawing inspiration from the mountains, mining history, and rural culture of the American West, the band has become one of Idaho's most beloved Americana acts, delivering heartfelt songwriting, rich harmonies, and energetic live performances. Their music combines traditional fiddle tunes, bluegrass influences, classic country, and folk storytelling into a sound that feels both timeless and distinctly Idaho.

The band was formed in 2012 after...

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Reckless Rooster

Born and raised in Utah, Reckless Rooster has become one of the most recognizable independent Americana and Western roots artists traveling the highways of the American West. A true multi-instrumentalist and relentless road warrior, Rooster has built his career one show at a time, earning a reputation for high-energy performances, exceptional musicianship, and authentic storytelling.

Known as a one-man-band, Reckless Rooster seamlessly blends Americana, folk, bluegrass, Western, Red Dirt country, and cowpunk influences into a sound that is uniquely his own. Whether he's playing flatpick guitar, fiddle...

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The Dirty Turkeys

Emerging from Colorado's Front Range and rooted in Castle Rock, The Dirty Turkeys are one of the fastest-rising bands in the modern independent rock scene. Formed in 2022 by brothers Brad "Gonzo" Hansen and Russ Hansen, alongside lifelong friends Sam Baker and Ty Tullar, the band has built a loyal following through their electrifying live performances, fearless creativity, and genre-defying sound they proudly call "Acid Cow Punk."

Blending psychedelic rock, surf music, punk attitude, classic rock influences, and outlaw country swagger, The Dirty Turkeys have created a...

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Rob Ridgway & 12th Fret Music

For guitar players throughout the Northwest, Rob Ridgway has become one of the most trusted names in the business. As owner of Boise-based 12th Fret Music, Rob has built far more than a guitar store—he has created a gathering place for musicians, collectors, songwriters, and music lovers alike. His passion for guitars began as a teenager and eventually led him to a professional career as a musician before fulfilling a lifelong dream of owning a guitar shop.

Since acquiring 12th Fret Music, Rob ha...

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Raised in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Kaden Minor is part of a new generation of Western artists dedicated to preserving the authentic stories, values, and traditions of the American West. A singer-songwriter, horseman, and working cowboy, Kaden writes and performs songs inspired by the people who make their living from the land, drawing from his own experiences on ranches and in the saddle.

Influenced by legendary Western artists such as Ian Tyson, Brenn Hill, and Chris LeDoux, Kaden's music reflects the grit, honesty, and independence that define ranch life. His...

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Thatch Elmer – Cowboy Poet, Rancher, and Rising Voice of the American West

Thatch Elmer is one of the most recognized young cowboy poets in America, earning national attention for preserving and promoting the traditions of the American West through poetry, storytelling, and authentic cowboy culture. Born in Wyoming and raised in a ranching family, Elmer began reciting cowboy poetry at just five years old and quickly developed a reputation for delivering classic and original works with a maturity far beyond his years.

By the time he was a teenager, El...

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This Live Episode features Husband and Wife Duo "Many Strings" Tony and Carol Messerly. Cowboy Poet Bob Urry, and Rendezvous Founder Dale Major.

The Cache Valley Cowboy Rendezvous is one of the premier celebrations of cowboy culture, western music, poetry, and storytelling in the Intermountain West. Held annually in Logan, Utah, the event brings together award-winning musicians, poets, artisans, and western heritage enthusiasts for several days of performances, workshops, and community gatherings. Known for its authentic western atmosphere and family-friendly programming, the Rendezvous honors the traditions, values, and artistic legacy of...

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Patty Clayton IWMA 
Patty Clayton is one of the most respected voices in contemporary Western music, celebrated for her exceptional songwriting, crystal-clear vocals, and lifelong dedication to preserving the stories, traditions, and spirit of the American West. Described as having a "voice as pure as the prairie wind," Clayton has built a career spanning several decades as a performer, songwriter, recording artist, and ambassador for Western heritage.

A descendant of Oregon Trail pioneers and ranching families of the Pacific Northwest, Patty's deep connection to Western history and culture is woven t...

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Dave Anderson is a passionate advocate for Western heritage, cowboy culture, and traditional Western music, best known as the Founder and Event Director of the Cache Valley Cowboy Rendezvous. Through his leadership and vision, the Rendezvous has become one of the premier celebrations of cowboy poetry, Western storytelling, music, and ranching traditions in the Intermountain West.

A longtime supporter of the cowboy arts and Western way of life, Anderson created the Cache Valley Cowboy Rendezvous to preserve and promote authentic cowboy culture while providing a stage for musicians, poets, historians, storytellers...

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Katy Lucas is one of the rising voices in Western sports broadcasting and rodeo media, widely recognized for her authentic storytelling, deep rodeo roots, and on-air work with The Cowboy Channel. Raised in Alberta, Canada, Katy grew up immersed in rodeo culture as the daughter of legendary Canadian cowboy Joe Lucas, a multi-time Canadian champion tie-down roper and six-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier.

Before becoming a respected television personality, Lucas competed in junior rodeo, high school rodeo, college competition, and amateur rodeo circuits, participating in events including team roping and breakaway...

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Darrell Holden is a respected voice in the world of cowboy poetry and Western heritage entertainment, known for blending humor, heartfelt storytelling, and authentic ranch-life experiences into performances that connect deeply with audiences across the American West. A gifted stage performer and speaker, Holden has become a recognizable figure at rodeos, cowboy gatherings, Western festivals, and heritage events where preserving the traditions of cowboy culture remains front and center.

Drawing inspiration from real-life experiences, rural values, and the spirit of the working cowboy, Darrell’s poetry captures both the grit and hu...

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Canadian singer-songwriter Eli Barsi has spent more than three decades building a respected career in Western roots, country, bluegrass, folk, gospel, and Americana music. Raised on a farm in southeastern Saskatchewan, Barsi developed her musical style from the traditions of prairie life and the Western lifestyle that continue to shape her songwriting today. A self-taught musician, vocalist, and yodeler, she eventually took her talents to Nashville to further develop her songwriting craft and music industry connections before launching a full-time independent career.

Known for her authentic Western storytelling and strong prairie...

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Judy Wagner is a respected leader in the Western lifestyle industry, best known for her longtime role as Chief Marketing Officer of Montana Silversmiths, one of the most recognized brands in Western buckles, jewelry, and lifestyle accessories. Throughout her career, Wagner played a major role in expanding the company’s national presence while helping preserve the authenticity and heritage of the Western way of life.

With decades of experience in branding, partnerships, and event marketing, Judy became instrumental in building Montana Silversmiths’ relationships with major rodeo organizations, country music events, western heri...

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David Lyle Evans is a veteran singer, songwriter, and bass player whose career has been deeply rooted in the traditions of Western music, outlaw country, and authentic Americana storytelling. With decades of experience on the road and in the studio, Evans has earned respect throughout the Western and independent country music communities for his powerful musicianship, commanding stage presence, and unwavering dedication to preserving the spirit of traditional country music.

Best known for his work as a bassist and performer, David Lyle Evans has shared stages and recording projects with some...

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Heath Clark is a rising independent country artist and songwriter whose music blends traditional country roots with rodeo culture and cowboy storytelling. Originally from Arizona and now connected to the Idaho and Nashville music scenes, Clark has built a reputation as a high-energy live performer, team roper, and authentic western entertainer. His music reflects his real-life experiences working ranches, competing in rodeos, and growing up in a deeply musical family. Clark comes from a multigenerational musical family with more than a century of musical heritage. Family members have performed with notable country entertainers...

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Keagan Park is an emerging country artist and songwriter from Ririe, ID where he is making waves with his heartfelt storytelling, modern country sound, and undeniable stage presence. Blending traditional country influences with a fresh contemporary edge, Keagan has been building a loyal following through energetic live performances, authentic songwriting, and a strong connection with fans. Whether performing acoustic songwriter rounds or full-band shows, his music reflects real-life experiences, small-town roots, and the passion of a young artist determined to carve out his own place in country music. As a rising voice in...

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Skip Ewing is one of Nashville’s most respected singer-songwriters, celebrated for a legendary career as both a hit recording artist and one of country music’s elite writers. A longtime member of the Grand Ole Opry family, Ewing has written 11 No. 1 country hits and an incredible catalog of songs recorded by some of the biggest names in country music history. His songwriting credits include timeless classics like “Love, Me” for Collin Raye, “Someone Else’s Star” and “Rebecca Lynn” for Bryan White, “If I Didn’t Have You” for Randy Travis, “You Had Me From Hello” for Ken...

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We had the honor of sitting down with Stacie Dagostino of Music Motion a 501C3 Nonprofit Foundation in Saint George, UT. Music Motion's main focus is changing the lives of families with children that are on the Autism spectrum. They have literally helped hundreds of families with kids ranging in age of 2-18 with music therapy paid for by the foundation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO DONATE 
visit www.music-motion.org

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In this episode of the Musical Miles Podcast, Aaron Ball and his bandmates Dave Bowman and Jared Smith join Byron for a conversation about the journey that has kept them performing together for well over a decade. Aaron and Dave have been touring since 2012, taking their music everywhere from dance halls and honky tonks to cruise ships on the high seas. Drummer Jared Smith later joined the band in 2015, helping solidify the sound and chemistry that continues to drive the group today.

The guys share stories from their busy touring schedule...

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We caught up with rising singer-songwriter Avery Soloaga at Jae’s Place in Twin Falls, Idaho, where the setting matched the authenticity of our conversation. Avery, who also serves in the Air National Guard, shared how balancing military service and a growing music career has shaped his perspective and fueled his songwriting. We dove into his early influences, the stories behind his music, and the discipline it takes to pursue both callings. With a grounded approach and a passion for storytelling, Avery opened up about the road ahead, making it clear he’s not...

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Wyoming artist Jared Rogerson joins us for Episode 196, bringing with him the grit, stories, and authenticity of a life lived both in and out of the rodeo arena. A former bareback bronc rider turned Nashville recording artist, Jared has built his music on real-life experiences—blending cowboy country with a rock edge that hits home for anyone who’s ever chased eight seconds and paid the price.

We dive into his journey from the high country of Wyoming to stages across the country, talking about the influence of rodeo on his song...

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This episode takes a break from our usual focus on music as we catch up with Trent Schulz, better known as the Free Fall Cowboy, during the electric atmosphere of the National Finals Rodeo at the Rio Roundup. A thrill seeker originally from Queen Creek and now hanging his hat in Riggins, ID Trent shared stories that match the intensity of his lifestyle. Our conversation quickly took flight into his deep passion for skydiving and BASE jumping, where precision, adrenaline, and a fearless mindset define every leap. It’s a laid-back but high-energy vi...

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We caught up with Olivia Harms for our second interview, during The Art of the Cowgirl, where she was performing. The ranch-raised artist shared an exciting next chapter in her journey. The daughter of nationally recognized IWMA Entertainer of the Year Joni Harms, Olivia was born into the spotlight—making her stage debut at just two days old—and that lifelong foundation in music has shaped the artist she is today. She opened up about how her introduction to Taylor Sheridan’s CBS series The Road led to her being selected as one of jus...

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Nyhl Henson’s career spans more than four decades across the entertainment industry, marked by influential roles in shaping modern media. From helping pioneer the Home Shopping Network and advancing pay-per-view events to contributing to the development of iconic brands like Nickelodeon, MTV, and CMT, his impact is far-reaching. Now, with his latest venture, Technotainment Streaming Media Inc., Henson is leading the charge into “Streaming 2.0”—a next-generation entertainment ecosystem that combines the personalization of Netflix, the commerce and community of Amazon and Facebook, and the immersive interactivity of gaming.

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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.

MORE ABOUT TIM TO...

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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...

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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...