Happy Hour with Deb

40 Episodes
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By: Debbie Cherella

Unfiltered stories over good drinks đŸ»đŸŽ¶đŸˆNew episodes every Thursday! đŸŽ§đŸŽ™ïž

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Calvin Savio on Music, Hustle & What’s Next Ep 117
#117
Today at 7:00 PM

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, Deb and co-host Emily Brooke sit down with Calvin Savio for a conversation about his journey into music, life in Nashville, and the experiences that helped shape his sound.

Calvin opens up about getting started as an artist, navigating the music industry at a young age, and his plans and goals for 2026. Known for blending emotional storytelling with melodic, high-energy vibes, Calvin is quickly creating a lane all his own in today’s music scene.

If you love authentic conversations about music, growth, and chasing dreams, this episode is...


From Independent Artist to Rising Star: 615 Exclusive’s Story EP116
#116
05/21/2026

 This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we sit down with rising artist 615 Exclusive, alongside co-hosts Holdyn Barder and Aliyah Orawsky, for a real and inspiring conversation about music, life, and purpose. 

Born Jamarius De’shawn Williams, 615 Exclusive shares his journey from being an independent artist writing songs at just 17 years old to building momentum in the music industry with millions of streams across platforms. We talk about his growth as an artist in Nashville, his creative process, and what drives him to keep pushing forward.

The conversation also dives into a more personal side of l...


Onoleigh Brings the Energy: Nashville Story, Growth & Big Dreams Ep115
#115
05/14/2026

 This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we’re joined by the incredibly energetic and inspiring Onoleigh, alongside co-hosts Timmy McKeever and Holdyn Barder for a fun, honest, and powerful conversation. 

Onoleigh shares her journey into country music, including the bold decision to leave the Thanksgiving table and head straight to Nashville to chase her dream. We talk about building confidence, navigating hate, and learning to fully step into who you are as an artist.

She brings such an infectious energy to this episode — it’s fun, real, and full of moments that remind you why chas...


Melanie Murray on Nashville, Big Goals & Her 2026 Vision Ep114
#114
05/08/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we’re joined by rising country artist Melanie Murray for an inspiring conversation about chasing dreams in Nashville. 

Melanie shares how she first got started as an artist, what led her to pursue music professionally, and the journey of building a career in one of the most competitive music cities in the world.

We also talk about her goals, mindset, and exciting plans for 2026 as she continues to grow both personally and professionally in the country music industry. From passion and persistence to staying focused on the bigger pic...


Charly Reynolds Talks 2026 Plans, Holiday Season & Staying Grounded Ep113
#113
05/01/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we’re joined by one of my absolute favorites, Charly Reynolds, alongside co-hosts Holdyn Barder and Timmy McKeever for a fun, uplifting, and real conversation. 

After catching up briefly at Country Radio Seminar, Charly is back for a full episode where we dive into everything that’s been happening since — from her exciting plans for 2026 to navigating life and music in Nashville.

We also talk about the holiday season, the importance of slowing down and taking time to recharge, and why Charly continues to be such a bright light i...


Jessie G Returns: Motherhood, Music & Her Big 2026 Plans | Ep112
#112
04/23/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we welcome back Jessie G — and this time, we get the full story. 

After a quick interview at Country Radio Seminar last year, Jessie G is back for a full-length conversation, opening up about everything that’s happened since. From life after pregnancy to balancing motherhood and a growing music career, she shares what this season has really looked like behind the scenes.

We dive into the challenges, the growth, and the determination it takes to keep pushing forward — especially in a place like Nashville. Jessie also talks about w...


Christian Parker's New Song “Gucci Boots,” Nashville & Country Music | Ep111
#111
04/16/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we’re joined by country artist Christian Parker alongside special co-host Adysen Malek for a fun and energetic episode you don’t want to miss. 

Raised in the Ozark Mountains and shaped by Texas honky-tonks, Christian shares his journey from walking away from Capitol Hill and a law degree to chasing a career in country music in Nashville. With over 13 million streams and a sound that blends Southern rock, blues, and outlaw country, he’s carving out a lane that’s raw, real, and a little reckless.

In this epis...


Elyse Saunders on Nashville, Country Music & Making It in the Industry Ep110
#110
04/10/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we’re joined by country artist Elyse Saunders, alongside special co-host Adysen Malek! 

Originally from Canada and now making waves in Nashville, Elyse shares her journey, what it really takes to build a career in country music, and how she’s approaching it all with intention and strategy.

If you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or dreamer chasing something bigger, this episode is packed with insight!

#countrymusic #countrymusicartist #nashville #podcast #happyhourwithdeb

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Robert Bacon on Building a Career in Country Music & Having the Right Team Ep109
#108
04/02/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we welcome back Robert Bacon for a powerful follow-up conversation since his last appearance at Country Radio Seminar. 

In this episode, Robert shares what’s changed over the past year and dives into the realities of building a career in Nashville. We talk about treating country music like a business, why having the right team around you is everything, and what it really takes to grow in such a competitive industry.

This conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and real advice for anyone chasing a career in music — or an...


Bucky Heard of The Righteous Brothers on Music, Legacy & What’s Next Ep108
#108
03/26/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we sit down with Bucky Heard of the legendary The Righteous Brothers for an incredible conversation about music, legacy, and what’s next. 

Bucky shares his journey through Nashville, how he built his career over the years, and what it’s been like stepping into the iconic role alongside Bill Medley as part of The Righteous Brothers. We also dive into his upcoming music, new albums, and the stories behind the songs he’s bringing to life in this next chapter.

Known for his powerful voice and high-energy perform...


Steven Cade on Country Music, Purpose & Giving Back Ep107
#107
03/19/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we sit down with country artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Giving Guitars Foundation, Steven Cade, for an inspiring conversation about music, purpose, and giving back. 

Steven shares his journey into country music and what led him to build a life and career in Nashville, along with the stories and inspiration behind his songs. Beyond the music, we dive into his heart for service through the Giving Guitars Foundation, whose mission is to bring hope, healing, and encouragement through the power of music. By donating guitars and creating meaningful music experiences, t...


Karissa Ella Shares Her Journey, Fan Moments & Big Plans for 2026 Ep106
#106
03/12/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with country artist Karissa Ella for a real and fun conversation about her journey in music and life behind the scenes. Karissa shares how she first got started in the industry and what led her to pursue her dreams in Nashville. 

We also talk about an unforgettable interaction she had with a fan, how she handles negative comments on social media, and the compliments that have meant the most to her along the way. On top of that, Karissa opens up about married life and what this n...


Jacob Jones on Music, Inspiration & Starting Out in Nashville Ep105
#105
03/05/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we sit down with country artist Jacob Jones for a powerful conversation about music, purpose, and chasing big dreams.

Joined by co-hosts Timmy McKeever and Holdyn Barder, Jacob opens up about his journey from serving in the military to stepping into the country music scene in Nashville.

This is an honest and inspiring conversation about resilience, passion, and the road to building a career in country music.

#countrymusic #countrymusicartist #nashville #podcast #happyhourwithdeb

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Adysen Malek Gets Real About Her Journey, Upcoming Music & Big Plans Ahead Ep104
#104
02/26/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we’re hanging out with rising country artist Adysen Malek — and trust us, you’re going to want to keep your eye on her. 

Joined by co-hosts Timmy McKeever and Holdyn Barder, we dive into Adysen’s journey into music, how she got her start, and the exciting songs she has coming up.

Adysen shares the heart behind her music, the lessons she’s learning along the way, and what’s fueling this next chapter of her career.

If you love discovering rising country talent before the rest of t...


American Blonde Bring the ENERGY | 2026 Plans, New Music & Country Life Ep103
#103
02/19/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we’ve blondes in the house!

American Blonde — Nata & Tinka — are back, and if you know, you KNOW
 the energy is unmatched every single time. These girls aren’t just guests, they’re part of the Happy Hour family.

From laughs to real talk, this episode is everything we love about country music — passion, grit, friendship, and a whole lot of heart.

If you love strong women in country, big dreams, and behind-the-scenes industry conversations
 this one’s for you.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and s...


Emily Brooke on Growth, Grit & Giving Yourself Grace Ep102
#102
02/12/2026

Country music’s ray of sunshine is back!

Emily Brooke returns to Happy Hour after our first interview together at CRS 2025, and so much has happened since then. We catch up on what she’s been building, the music she’s creating, and how she’s growing—not just as an artist, but as a person navigating this wild industry.

She truly is sunshine in human form—but don’t let that fool you. There’s depth, resilience, and serious talent behind that light.
If you’re an artist, creative, or just someone learning to give yourself g...


Catching Up with Michael James, Timmy McKeever & Holdyn Barder | Ep101
#101
02/05/2026

The Happy Hour crew is back together. 

This week, I’m joined by Michael James, along with returning co-hosts Timmy McKeever and Holdyn Barder—all familiar faces you know and love on the show. We catch up on what’s new, including Michael’s upcoming music, Timmy’s life on tour, and the latest updates from Holdyn.

We also dive into bigger conversations around country music today, navigating fans and expectations, knowing when to take a break, handling social media, and staying grounded in an indus...


New Music & Real Industry Talk with Remy Garrison & Chrissy Nix | Ep100
#100
01/29/2026

They’re back at Happy Hour with Deb—and it feels like catching up with old friends. 

This week, I’m joined by Remy Garrison and her manager Chrissy Nix, two familiar faces on the show. We talk about Remy’s new song, what she’s been working on creatively, and what’s next on her journey. Chrissy also shares her honest thoughts on the country music industry, artist development, and what it really takes to navigate this business today.

From music and management to growth, perspective, and real-life updates, this episode is relaxed, insightful, and full of g...


Breaking Into Pop: Bella Rose on Happy Hour with Deb (First Pop Artist!) Ep.99
#99
01/22/2026

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we’re breaking new ground—our first pop artist joins the show! 

I’m joined by the talented Bella Rose, who opens up about her journey in the pop world, her inspirations, and what it takes to chase a dream while staying true to yourself. Co-hosting with me is one of my favorite people in the world, Aliyah Orawsky, bringing her insight, humor, and perspective to the conversation.

From behind-the-scenes stories to honest reflections on creativity, ambition, and life as an artist, this episode is full of laughs, inspira...


Songs, Stories & Sitting at the Table: Ivey Campbell with Holdyn Barder & Timmy McKeever
#98
01/15/2026

This episode of Happy Hour with Deb feels like one of those conversations you don’t want to end. I’m joined by rising artist Ivey Campbell, along with two of my favorite familiar voices—Holdyn Barder and Timmy McKeever—as we dig into music, storytelling, growth, and what it really means to find your place in this industry.

From songwriting and creative instincts to navigating the ups, downs, and quiet moments that shape an artist’s journey, this episode is honest, laid-back, and full of heart. It’s a reminder that no one does this alone—and sometimes...


Back at the Bar: Cody Cozz Kicks Off Season 2! Ep97
#97
01/08/2026

Season 2 of Happy Hour with Deb is here, and we’re kicking it off with a returning favorite—Cody Cozz! Grab a drink and join us for laughs, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments as we catch up with Cody and dive into what’s new in his world.

We’re also excited to announce a new collaboration with Freedom Brew, a company dedicated to giving back to military personnel and veterans who’ve sacrificed so much for our freedom. A portion of every purchase goes to helping these heroes and their families, making your favorite beverage even more meaningful...


Best of 2025 (Part 2) | More Moments, More Music, More Happy Hour
#24
01/02/2026

Part 2 of our Best of 2025 is here!

This episode brings you even more standout moments from an unforgettable year of Happy Hour with Deb. From powerful conversations and unexpected laughs to raw, real stories from artists and creatives, this episode captures the heart of what made 2025 so special.

If you loved Part 1, settle in—because this one goes even deeper. Whether you’re catching up or reliving your favorite moments, this episode is all about connection, music, and the magic that happens when great people sit down and tell their stories.

Grab a drin...


Best of 2025: CRS Moments That Defined Happy Hour with Deb
#23
12/23/2025

2025 was one for the books—and it all came together at the Country Radio Seminar. 
In this Best of 2025 episode of Happy Hour with Deb, we’re bringing you some of our favorite, most memorable moments straight from CRS. From candid conversations and unexpected laughs to powerful stories and artist breakthroughs, this episode captures the heart of what Happy Hour is all about.

Featuring standout moments with incredible artists including Jet Jurgensmeyer, Michael James & Hodyn Barder, Austin Taylor Dye, Jessie G., Charly Reynolds, Emily Brooke, Pryor Baird, and Timmy McKeever, this episode is a celebration of the c...


Greg Pratt | From Memphis to Nashville
#22
12/18/2025

Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee—the home of the blues—Greg Pratt was on a very different path before country music called his name. With just one college credit left and a family legacy in medicine, Greg packed his car, left everything behind, and headed to Nashville with only a few dollars and a dream.

In this short but powerful conversation, Greg shares how he taught himself guitar, learned to write songs, and built a baritone voice that now fills some of Nashville’s biggest stages. From working in the back kitchen of a restaurant to becomi...


Faith, Family & a Country Dream | Tori Martin on Happy Hour with Deb
#21
12/18/2025

 On this episode of Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with country music artist Tori Martin for a short but powerful conversation about her journey into music. From being discovered by a Grammy Award–winning producer while singing at church, to growing up with a father who served as a veteran, to chasing her dreams all the way to American Idol, Tori’s story is rooted in faith, family, and resilience. 

This interview may be brief, but it’s just the beginning—we’re definitely bringing her back. Grab a drink and get to know Tori Martin. 

...


The Swon Brothers Bring the Laughs: Nashville Life, New Music & More
#20
12/11/2025

Get ready for one of the most fun episodes yet on Happy Hour with Deb, because The Swon Brothers came to play!

Zach and Colton Swon join me for an energy-filled conversation all about the Nashville country music scene, their brand-new IMAGINE: Cabin Sessions EP (fully written and produced by the brothers), a little bit of football talk, and plenty of laughs and behind-the-scenes stories. We dive into the heartfelt inspiration behind their song “By Now,” written in memory of a close family friend who taught Colton bass guitar, and celebrate their huge recent wins — from a SOLD-O...


Country Star Walker Montgomery: The Story Behind the Music
#19
12/04/2025

In this episode of Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with the incredibly talented Walker Montgomery — an artist with one of the strongest pedigrees in country music but a fire to build a legacy that’s all his own.

Chosen as an “Artist to Watch” by Country Now, Music Mayhem, The Boot, and more, Walker shares how growing up as the son of John Michael Montgomery and nephew of Eddie Montgomery shaped him
 and how carving out his own identity led him all the way to his Grand Ole Opry debut.

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Classical Roots, Country Heart — Meet Ada Pasternak
#18
11/27/2025

In this episode of Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with the incredible Ada Pasternak — a classically trained violinist, award-winning singer-songwriter, and rising force in country music.

Ada’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up as a classical prodigy, she trained for years as a violinist before discovering her true passion for storytelling and country music. Today, she’s known for blending her classical foundation with a modern country sound that is emotional, fresh, and completely her own.

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A Fun, Unfiltered Chat with Chris Dodson
#17
11/20/2025

Get ready for a fun and wide-open conversation with Chris Dodson — country music artist and President/CEO of Makin Music LLC! 

Chris joins Deb at CRS 2025 for a lively interview where nothing is off the table. They dive into his music journey, what’s coming next for him and Makin Music LLC, his NFL opinions (yes
 he has thoughts 😄), the best food in Nashville, and so much more.

If you love country music, good laughs, and genuine conversations with artists who are shaping the industry, you’re going to love this episode.

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Paulina Jayne : A Burst of Country Sunshine
#16
11/13/2025

She’s been called “Dolly Parton junior” by Ronnie Dunn — and once you meet her, you’ll see why! 

In this episode of Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with Paulina Jayne, a powerhouse singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose blend of heart, humor, and hope lights up every room she’s in.

From sharing the stage with Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, and Sheryl Crow to writing alongside Nashville’s biggest hitmakers like Shane McAnally and JT Harding, Paulina’s journey is pure inspiration. 

We talk about her latest releases — “Each Time I Fell,” “After the Party’s Over,” a...


Catching Up with Timmy Mckeever at CRS 2025!
#15
11/07/2025

We’re back with another episode of Happy Hour with Deb, live from CRS 2025 in Nashville! 
This week, I catch up with the amazing Timmy McKeever, who’s been making big moves since his last appearance on the show. We talk about his exciting plans for the summer, new music on the way, and the heartfelt story of his dad stepping in as his manager — keeping family at the core of his career. 

If you love authentic country conversations, stories of hard work, and the heart behind the hustle, this one’s for you.

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Juna N Joey : The Sibling Duo Taking Over Country Music
#14
10/30/2025

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we welcome one of the most exciting young acts in country music — Juna N Joey! 

This brother-sister duo has taken the world by storm with their stunning harmonies, viral covers (over 8.5 million views on YouTube and 10 million on TikTok!), and a growing list of chart-topping singles like “Something Good To Miss” and “Til Your Heart Breaks.”

From performing on NBC’s America’s Most Musical Family to working with top Nashville songwriters, Juna N Joey are proving that talent, heart, and hard work are a powerful mix.

Grab your d...


Military Wife, Country Artist and a Mother: Jessie G’s Story Will Move You!
#13
10/23/2025

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, we sit down with the powerhouse country artist Jessie G — a proud military spouse, mama, and unstoppable performer whose story is as inspiring as her voice. 

From performing the National Anthem at the Green Bay Packers vs. Miami Dolphins NFL game — streamed to millions worldwide — to preparing for her 2025 international tour, Jessie shares her journey of passion, purpose, and resilience.

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Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

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Songs of Nashville: A Deep Dive Into Country Music’s Soul with Jake Brown
#12
10/16/2025

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with Jake Brown — an award-winning biographer, TV producer, and storyteller behind some of music’s most legendary names.

With over 60 published books and collaborations with icons like Merle Haggard, Heart, Joe Satriani, Tupac Shakur’s Estate, Teddy Riley, and Motörhead, Jake has spent two decades documenting the heartbeat of the music industry.

Now, with his newest book, “Songs of Nashville,” Jake turns his pen toward the city that never stops singing — unveiling the stories behind country music’s greatest songs and the artists who wrote them.

...


Robby Johnson: The Power of Believing in Your Dream
#11
10/09/2025

This week on Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with country artist Robby Johnson, whose story is all about risk, sacrifice, and belief in a dream. 

Robby left behind a life of comfort to chase his passion in Nashville—with nothing guaranteed but his determination and heart for the music. From millions of streams and global airplay to hearing his songs in hotels, casinos, and cruise ships, Robby has built his career one bold step at a time.

But as he shares in...


Carrie Brockwell: Country Music's Next Big Star
#10
10/02/2025

At just 18, Carrie Brockwell has already achieved what many artists only dream of — from earning a Golden Ticket on American Idol, to playing the Grand Ole Opry House, to releasing award-winning music that’s catching the industry’s attention.

But what truly sets Carrie apart isn’t just her voice — it’s her heart, her positive energy, and her determination to inspire others along the way. 

In this episode of Happy Hour with Deb, Carrie opens up about her journey, her music, her passion for giving back, and why she’s destined to be one of country musi...


Ana Cristina Cash on Life in Music & Motherhood
#9
09/26/2025

In this episode of Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with the incredibly talented Ana Cristina Cash — a bilingual Cuban-American artist raised in Miami who brings both grit and grace to the country music stage. 

By the age of 15, Ana Cristina had already signed with Sony Music’s Latin division and released her debut Spanish-language album, Ana Cristina. Her career has since taken her from Latin pop to Nashville stages, carving out her own path in country music while staying true to her roots.

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Country's Favorite Duo: Holdyn Barder and Michael James
#8
09/18/2025

 At Happy Hour with Deb, some people are more than just guests — they’re like family. This episode is a special catch-up with Holdyn Barder and Michael James at CRS 2025, two of my favorite boys in country music. We dig into their journeys, their energy on stage, and what’s next — including a possible co-hosting adventure together! 

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Happy Hour with Deb
Real Talk. Big Feelings. Country Soul.
New episodes weekly — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube

 🔗 Follow us everywhere: @happyhourwithdeb
 📬 For guest inquiries or c...


Behind the Music with Country Icon John Berry
#7
09/12/2025

Country music legend John Berry joins me on Happy Hour with Deb for a heartfelt conversation filled with wisdom, laughter, and inspiration. 

From his chart-topping hits of the ’90s like “Your Love Amazes Me,” “Standing on the Edge of Goodbye,” and “She’s Taken a Shine” to his annual Christmas tours that have become a holiday tradition, John has touched millions with his unmistakable voice.

After the pandemic put the world — and music — on pause, John returns with a fresh outlook, new music, and the same electrifying passion that’s defined his career.

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Robert Bacon: Lessons from Nashville & Beyond
#6
09/06/2025

In this episode of Happy Hour with Deb, I sit down with Robert Bacon — an artist whose journey is rooted in country tradition, shaped by resilience, and fueled by passion. đŸ‡ș🇾

Born on an army base in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and raised on a Midwest farm, Robert grew up listening to legends like George Jones, Loretta Lynn, The Oak Ridge Boys, The Statler Brothers, Alan Jackson, and George Strait. Those influences set the foundation for a career that has taken him from Kansas City to Kentucky to Nashville.

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