Music Festivals Podcast

In this episode of the Music Festivals PodcastI’m recapping my incredible experience at the 21st Watermelon Pickers Festival in Berryville, Virginia.

I had the pleasure of meeting some camp neighbors along the way, from Mark Stewart of  @StayFreshcheese  who joined me on production, and to reflect on what festivals truly mean to those who go—to longtime vendor Steve Higgins, who reclaims old antiques and creates new art. There was also my unforgettable conversations with festival attendee Johnny, who shared wild tales from the San Francisco music scene and his escapades at Burning Man.

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In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I was thrilled to sit down with the incredibly talented Bronwyn Keith-Hynes.

We talked all about her Grammy-nominated vocal album "I Built a World," what it was like transitioning from being known strictly as a fiddler to stepping up as a vocalist, and the journey that led her there—including the influence of the American Roots Program at Berklee and inspirations from greats like Molly Tuttle.

Bronwyn opens up about the challenges and excitement of recording and performing her own songs, the creative process of...

In this episode of Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down with OJ Wilson, the heart behind the Lazy Jam Music Festivals, to get the inside story on how this unique festival has not only survived but thrived for seven years.

OJ shares how Lazy Jam started as a small gathering of friends and slowly grew into a tight-knit community—still keeping its grassroots, backyard feel with thoughtful touches like reserved camping spots and community fire pits. We talk about what it takes to maintain the beautiful land where Lazy Jam takes place, including the dedicated army of fr...

In this episode of Music Festivals Podcast, I’m recapping my day at Grassfire 2025, held over an epic 4th of July weekend at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in Garrettsville, Ohio. We'll explore the truly unique and interesting vibe of the NLQP venue and share some tips on camping there for festivals. Get the low down on the spring-fed quarry lake and beach, and how to make the most of your time on these iconic Ohio music festival grounds. I break down everything from the camping setup, to the food and merch on “Shakedown Street”.

You'll meet long-time vendor...

In this episode of Music Festivals Podcast, I’m recapping a wild and muddy weekend moshing at INKcarceration 2025, the massive metal and tattoo festival at the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio.

It was extra special this year because I got to bring my son Kaden along to rock out at his very first music festival. I break down everything you need to know before you go: from the heavy-hitting lineups featuring bands like Slipknot, Five Finger Death Punch, and Falling in Reverse, to insider tips on camping, shuttle logistics, and snagging those coveted tattoo and prison to...

In this episode of Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down for a fireside chat with Jesse Iaquinto from Fireside Collective. We talk about the role that family plays both on and off the stage, Jesse’s life in Asheville, North Carolina, and what it’s like to bring his wife and young daughter along to festivals and shows. Jesse shares some heartfelt stories about musical moments with his daughter, how music lessons are evolving for her, and how the bluegrass and jam band community truly feels like a second family.

We also get into the evolution of Fire...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I recap my trip to the 4848 Music Festival held at Snowshoe Mountain Resort in Snowshoe West Virginia to cap off my All Good Presents "Trifesta" summer road trip.

You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at this unique mountain top music festival from the perspective of the VIP volunteers who help set and maintain the positive and family friendly vibes, to the busiest guy on the mountain who keeps the event humming along. You'll see footage of the venue and accommodations as well as performances from Fireside Collective and Dark Star...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I recap my trip to Missouri for the 10th anniversary of the Pickin' on Picnic Music Festival at Lost Hill Lake.

It was my very first visit to Missouri, and this festival was packed with highlights, from a magical hickory grove venue to some of the best bluegrass and jam grass music around. I share my experiences at this incredibly well-organized event, covering everything from family-friendly activities, the unique outdoor amenities, and the big role that community and mental health initiatives play at this festival. Plus, I talk about...

Heyo neighbors—in this episode on the podcast I’m hanging out with Jesse Shultzaberger, the powerhouse drummer behind Larry Keel’s Electric Larryland. Jesse’s a staple in the East Coast jam and bluegrass world, and he’s got some awesome stories to tell. We dive into how he picked up the drums thanks to his dad, all the bands he’s been part of (like the Woodsheders, the Randy Thompson Band, and his own Jazz Assembly), plus what it’s like juggling life as both a touring musician and a dedicated teacher. He even gives us a behind-the-sce...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down with two true bluegrass legends—Jason Carter and Michael Cleveland—to talk about their brand new collaboration and the stories that have defined their unique journeys. We get into their deep roots in bluegrass, experiences growing up in musical families, and how Michael adapted to becoming one of the most influential fiddlers despite significant challenges with blindness and hearing loss. Jason shares memories of joining the Del McCoury Band just four years after picking up the fiddle, and both reflect on their long-standing friendship and admiration for each othe...

In this episode, I recap my visit to the Charlotte Bluegrass Festival in Michigan, a storied event that has been running for 53 years at the Eaton County Fairgrounds. From the start, the festival’s small-town charm and sense of community were clear—local history, welcoming people, and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe really set the tone.

It was a privilege to see Billy Strings return to his roots, sharing heartfelt stories about his first experiences at the festival as a child and performing a special homecoming show—something longtime attendees and newcomers alike could appreciate. The festival offered a genu...

In episode 47 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I deliver a full recap and documentary on the reimagined All Good Now Music Festival, held in Columbia Maryland at the Merriweather Post Pavilion from June 14th - 15th, 2025.

Led by promoter Tim Walther, 2025 marked the inaugural year of the completely reimagined All Good Festival — one of the most iconic gatherings in American jam band history that was first launched in 1997 by Tim Walther and creative director Junipa Contento-Süslü.

You'll also catch unforgettable performance highlights from a powerhouse lineup, including The Disco Biscuits, The Strin...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I recap Hookahville 60, an Ohio music festival that has run twice annually (Spring and Fall) for 30 years.

Get an inside look at this Ohio-grown iconic jam band festival, with this in-depth recap. I review standout performances including memorable sets from Ed McGee and other special guests, and share my thoughts on the Roost on the River venue, touching on everything from logistics and camping to amenities. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories, plenty of shoutouts to the Hookahville community, and highlights of unique festival traditions like creative theme nights and cr...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I talk with Taylor Steele, singer, song-writer and front woman for The Love Preachers, as she gears up to play her first Picking on Picnic festival at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair, Missouri. Taylor shares how her band's heartfelt songwriting, built from life experiences and a blend of roots, classic rock, and old folk influences, helped them get noticed by festival organizers and land a spot on this year’s lineup.

We dig into the inspiration and creative process behind the Love Preachers’ new album "High Feeling," touching on t...

In this episode of Music Festival Podcast, get festival highlights and real stories from the 12th annual Dark Star Jubilee held over Memorial Day Weekend at Ohio's iconic Legend Valley Concert Venue. 

You’ll get behind-the-scenes insight into what makes the festival tick, hearing directly from attendees, vendors, artists, and the people who run it. From stories that go all the way back to classic Grateful Dead shows, to fresh takes from folks attending for the first time, there’s something here for every music festival fan.

We dig into what the “vibe” a...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, you'll get the inside scoop on the 21st annual Watermelon Pickers Festival from producer Stacey Sinclair. This long-standing festival held annually in Berryville, Virginia has a deep and rich history, and is in the midst of a major evolution—from its 1960s origins to its revival and growth into one of the area’s top Americana, roots, old-time and bluegrass music gatherings.

Stacey discusses her own journey from theater major and educator to bluegrass musician and festival organizer. You'll also hear what’s in store for the 21st edition of thi...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I sat down with Ben Majeska—lead guitarist, vocalist, and the energetic force behind Armchair Boogie—for a deep dive into the band's origin story, the wild ride of festival touring, and their unique place in the exploding jam-grass scene. With festival season heating up, Armchair Boogie’s summer is packed with can’t-miss dates, including the highly anticipated Pickin' on Picnick at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair, Missouri.

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In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, we take a up-close look at a truly one-of-a-kind Midwest music venue. I’m breaking down the Poe Road Music Sanctuary’s 2025 Season Opener in Grand Rapids, Ohio—a one night festival held at a hidden gem set in the middle of the cornfields with a history as unique as its lineup.

Poe Rd. is definitely an Ohio festival venue that should be on your list for this summer and fall. Join me as I recap the night’s standout performances from bands like The Funk Factory, ekoostik hookah, and Top...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, we get the inside scoop on the upcoming 2025 Pickin' on Picknick, a Bluegrass Festival celebrating it's 10th year of production and held annually in St. Clair, Missouri at Lost Hill Lake.

I had the chance to sit down with festival producer and promoter, Ryan Kemp, for an exclusive preview of this long-standing Missouri bluegrass festival. We dive into the festival’s origins and history, the incredible growth over the last decade, and all the little details that make this event so special—from shady walnut groves and lakeside activities to a...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, get the inside scoop on the upcoming 2025 Dark Star Jubilee with NeighborN8 and special guest Jeff Mattson of Dark Star Orchestra.

Jeff discusses what it was like stepping into the lead guitar role with DSO and how the band meticulously recreates different Grateful Dead eras, even going so far as to match equipment and style down to the finest details. He shares stories of collaborating with Grateful Dead legends Phil Lesh and Donna Jean Godchaux, and describes the thrill of playing Jerry Garcia’s iconic guitars—including Alligator—thanks to the...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I recap Camp Cosmic 2025, a music festival produced by Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country and held annually at The Caverns in Pelham, Tennessee. This is the second year for this insanely fun music festival where a shows are held in the iconic cave stage. You'll hear excerpts of exclusive band interviews with Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country, Mountain Grass Unit and Willow Osborne as well as see footage of the venue, the light shows in the cave. Stay until the end to watch Campfire Jams led by Water Tower and Willow Osborne.

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I had the chance to sit down with Dave Katz, founder and maestro behind one of my all-time favorite jam bands, Әkoostik Hookah.

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Dave shares the unexpected beginnings of Hookahville, and discusses how Hookah's music and the changing band dynamics have significantly shaped their sound as well as their music festival's vibe over the years. We touch on the unique connection between Hookah and the Grateful Dead, and D...

In episode 36 of Music Festivals Podcast, we're setting sail on the voyage of a lifetime — a one-of-a-kind music festival experience that takes select music enthusiasts , side-by-side with their favorite artists on an adventure through St. Vincent and the Grenadine Islands.

I’m talking with Ashley Hart, one of the co-founders, along with Anders Beck (member of Greensky Bluegrass and Rhythm & Sails Music Director) and Damian Quigley, (Co-Founder & Brand Director) to dive into how Rhythm & Sails, an intimate, floating festival came to life.

Picture this: 7 catamarans (all 42-50 footers), a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, and daily live jams and t...

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down for a evening conversation with one of my favorite singer-songwriters, Ed McGee. We talk a walk down memory lane to explore the rich 30 year history of this iconic music festival and Ed's own personal experiences surrounding Hookahville..

Ed reflects on his first Hookahville performance in 1994, sharing how he became part of the festival's origins and his initial connection with the band, ekoostik hookah. He shares more on his recent shows with One Under, detailing how the band overcame some unexpected challenges to deliver an incredible performance...

In episode 34 of Music Festivals Podcast, we go behind the scenes with Tim Walther and Janice Hurley of All Good Presents to to explore the Trifesta — a trio of legendary festivals that includes Dark Star Jubilee, All Good Now (formally the All Good Music Festival) and the 4848 Festival. Plus, you'll have a chance to enter to win tickets to all three events this summer valued at over $1500.

All Good Presents Trifesta Festival Dates 📆

Dark Star Jubilee (May 23–25, 2025, Legend Valley, OH)

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In episode 33— the official start of Season 3 of Music Festivals Podcast—I recap my recent trip to WinterWonderGrass 2025 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

Watch for an exciting recap of Winter Wondergrass 2025 as NeighborN8 takes you on a journey through this unique ski and snowboard music festival in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The episode features behind-the-scenes insights into the logistics of traveling to Steamboat Springs and navigating the festival scene. You'll get highlights of standout performances from artists like Mountain Grass Unit, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, The Fretliners, and many more incredible bands. 

Experience the uniqueness of attendi...

In the final Music Festivals Podcast episode of Season 2, I talk with Alex "Gator" Petropoulos, Drummer for Pigeons Playing Ping Pong. Alex and I get into his journey of joining the band and the influences he brings to their music. The conversation covers the band's approach to improvisational jams and their unique recording process, including their recent album, "Day and Time". Alex gives us a history of Dome Fest and why it's called that in the first place. You'll also learn about the festivals newest location and the line up set for late summer 2025. We also chat about "the...

In Episode 31 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I recap and review the Whippersnap Music and Arts Festival that took place from 2/19 - 2/22/2025 at the Florida Sand Music Ranch with headliners Steelin' Peaches, Keller Williams, The Polyrhythmics and The New Mastersounds. You'll also hear interviews from Daniel Heitz, guitar player for Steeln' Peaches and Sierra Oriana McRae of Healing Arts Sanctuary.

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Key Moments in this Week's Podcast 🎙️

[00:01:27] Recap of Whippersnap Festival bands and layout.

[00:02:33] Festival Layout and Vendor Arrangements

[00:04:08] Stage layout and festival lighting and sound.

[00:06:48] Noteworthy Artis...

In Episode 30 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down with Ben Bloom of the The Polyrhythmics, a Seattle-based powerhouse instrumental group that emerged from Seattle’s deep funk scene.

Originally just a recording project, the band’s first live show revealed an unexpected energy that changed everything. With over 15 years of touring and recording, their evolving sound continues to blur genre lines, creating hypnotic grooves that keep audiences locked in.

Ben and I get into his background as a musician and some inspiration that can be traced back to a highly influential high school band...

In Episode 29 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I talk with Eddie Roberts about his long and amazing musical career, from his beginnings in Jazz to the formation of his funk band The New Mastersounds. In 2024, they celebrated their 25th anniversary as a touring band.

Eddie is a Welsh-born guitarist, music producer and entrepreneur, and The New Mastersounds are one of this year's headliners for the upcoming Whippersnap Music & Arts Festival that will happen at the Florida Sand Music Ranch in Brooksville, FL from February 19th - 20th, 2025.

In the conversation, you'll get the history of...

In Episode 28 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I have Turner More, Festival Promoter for the Sunshine Music Festivals and owner of Obsessions, back for a preview of the upcoming Sunshine Get Down music festival that is set to take place April 10th-12th 2025 at the Florida Sand Music Ranch in Brooksville, FL.

Turner gives us the complete low down on this early Spring fest in Florida that is shaping up to be a banger, with headliners Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Fracso and the U.N. and Big Something plus many more regional and local bands. There...

In Episode 27 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I talk with Keller Williams about his long and amazing musical career, and what has allowed him to produce 35 records in just over 30 years! 😮 He's shares that he'll be adding a few more projects to that list over the course of 2025.

We cover a ton of his current projects and tour stops, as well as how he started looping in the first place. You'll want to hear about the cool new iPhone app that Keller has used to create tracks like Two Lips/Tulips as well as other EDM-inspired songs he...

In Episode 26 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down with Professor Dan Boner, who leads the East Tennessee State University Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies Program. Dan also teaches in the program and directs the ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band.

Our conversation covers a lot of ground including the band's formation and evolution, their new EP, a new record in the works for 2025 and their upcoming appearance at WinterWonderGrass.

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🎙️Key Moments in the Conversation 🎙️

05:08 Diverse Music Faculty Expertise at ETSU

07:16 Bluegrass Program Shifts to Appalachian Studies

11:50 "C...

In Episode 25 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down with bluegrass fiddle player Deanie Richardson from the Nashville-based Grammy Nominated bluegrass band, Sister Sadie.

This stellar ensemble has gained national recognition as the IBMA Vocal Group of the Year three consecutive years (2019, 2020, 2021), also taking home the title of IBMA Entertainer of the Year in 2020, making them the first all-female bluegrass band to win this award in its 30-year history.

Deanie was Nominated for the Academy of Country Music Awards Top Fiddle Player of the Year in 2010, has appeared on shows like Letterman, Leno, Conan...

In Episode 24 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I sit down with bluegrass fiddle player Dan Andree from The Fretliners to preview their upcoming performance at the 2025 WinterWonderGrass Festival in Steamboat Springs, CO, happening February 27–March 2.

The Fretliners, winners of the 2023 Telluride Bluegrass and RockyGrass band competitions, bring a fresh take on traditional bluegrass with their infectious energy and modern themes. Dan shares insights about the band’s journey, their unique sound, and what fans can expect at their WinterWonderGrass set.

Key Moments in the Conversation 🎙️

In Ep.23 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I talk with festival producer Shane LaVigne about the upcoming Whippersnap Music & Arts Festival that will be held at the at the Florida Sand Music Ranch Feb 19-22, 2025.

This early 2025 season festival is shaping up to be a killer event with headliners including Keller Williams, The New Mastersounds, and the Polyrythmics. Dozens of other regional and local bands will be jamming across two stages and to some of the best light shows you'll find at an intimate music festival setting.

🎙️ Key Moments in the Conversation 🎙️

03:29 Local Florida fa...

In Ep.22 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I talk with Katia "Pixie" Racine from Utah-based Bluegrass band Pixie & the Partygrass Boys. We get into the details behind the band's new self-titled album, their upcoming performances at WinterWonderGrass 2025 and on their RiverWonderGrass rafting trip. Katia also shares more about their newest band member and some changes to the mix coming in 2025. You'll also find out why they are so keen on chickens.

👉 Links Mentioned During the Episode 👈

More About Pixie and the Partygrass Boys

In Ep.21 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I talk with Grammy Nominated singer, songwriter and bluegrass guitarist, Trey Hensley. Trey was also 2023's IBMA Guitar Player of the Year and up for even more accolades this year. During the conversation, we get into how Trey balances the demands of being a professional touring musician with family and life as an active and engaged parent. We cover a lot of ground in this chat -- from Trey’s amazing guitar collection, to recent collaborations to his upcoming projects and tour dates in 2025 -- this interview is full of stuff you sh...

In Ep.20 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I talk with the fellas from Mountain Grass Unit, one of the hottest new bands on the national bluegrass scene. Talking with Drury Anderson, Luke Black, Sam Wilson and Josiah Nelson was a real treat -- since seeing them live at Renewal 2024, MTU has made their way to my every day play lists. We get into some how the band came together, how they met Billy Strings and Jarod Walker, recap a few performances from 2024 and their upcoming dates in 2025. You'll even find a pretty cool golden Easter Egg buried in this...

In Ep.19 of the Music Festivals Podcast, I talk with the founders of TuneHatch, a Nashville-based tech startup that matches bands and musicians with local venues while adding transparency to the booking process. Serving 15 Nashville venues and over 1,000 registered artists, the founders aim to build TuneHatch into the world's go-to platform for live music and entertainment, creating a transparent, efficient, and profitable ecosystem for musicians, venues, and fans. We wrap this weeks show with this week's music festival news segment with early bird tickets and one of the final outdoor festivals of the year.

👉 Links Mentioned During the...