In this episode, Bernie talks with Ernie Moreno, a Denton-based artist and founder of Tattoo My Shoes. Ernie creates vibrant, hand-drawn artwork on shoes, transforming each pair into a one-of-a-kind piece. He shares how his background in tech and tattooing led to a passion project that became a unique business. From comic cons to personal commissio…

This week we sit down with guitarist and frontman Patrick Kennison. Patrick discusses his journey from forming Union Underground to playing with Lita Ford and leading his own band, Heaven Below. He shares stories about growing up in San Antonio’s heavy metal scene, the influence of mentors like Dick Wagner, and navigating the highs and lows of the …

This week we chop it up with filmmaker, musician, and host of The New York Hardcore Chronicles Live, Drew Stone. Drew shares stories from his upbringing in New York City, his immersion in the early hardcore punk scene, and how that culture shaped his filmmaking. He talks about his documentaries like The New York Hardcore Chronicles and Who the F** …

In this week’s episode, Gavin Friday joins us for a raw conversation about music, politics, and the power of art to disrupt. From his punk roots with the Virgin Prunes to creating Ecce Homo, a fiery and cinematic new album, Gavin opens up about navigating decades of creative reinvention. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with U2, sc…

This week we sit down with Katy Krassner, the social media director for Duran Duran and co-host of Whooosh! with Simon Le Bon. Katy shares how her childhood love for entertainment led to a career that took her from Long Island to backstage. She gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to manage the band’s digital presence, from creating e…

In this episode, Bernie sits down with Frank Falbo, CEO and founder of Falbo Guitars, to explore his journey as an innovator in the guitar industry. Frank shares his early passion for guitars, his work developing groundbreaking pickups, and his experience as Steve Stevens’ guitar tech. He delves into the evolution of electric and acoustic guitar de…

This week Bernie and Lisa sit down with multi-platinum producer David Prater, best known for his work with Dream Theater, Firehouse, and Night Ranger. David takes us through his journey from being a drummer in Santana to producing some of rock’s most iconic albums. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with Dream Theater on Images and W…

To kick off our fifth season, Bernie and Lisa sit down with Adam Clayton, bassist of U2. Adam shares insights on his latest project, Ballroom Blitz, a docuseries exploring the rich history of Irish show bands. He reflects on the evolution of the music industry and the lessons he’s learned from decades in the business. Beyond the stage, he opens up …

In this episode, Bernie sits down with Kin Faux—Rico Gonzalez, Jakey Black, Avery Castro, and Adam Carrillo—to discuss their journey in the Texas country/red dirt music scene. They share how the band came together, the sacrifices they’ve made, and how their current lineup has elevated their sound. We discuss their relentless work ethic, deep connec…

This week, Bernie chats with Frank Jasper, best known for his role as Brian Shute in the cult classic Vision Quest, as the film approaches its 40th anniversary. Frank reflects on the film’s lasting impact, its legendary soundtrack, and its enduring legacy. He also talks about reconnecting with the wrestling community and his transition into holisti…

This week we chat with veteran guitar tech Jimmy Bomann about his journey from playing in bands to working behind the scenes for legendary artists like The Go-Go’s, Lou Reed, and Peter Frampton. Jimmy opens up about the highs and lows of touring life, some of the lessons he learned as a tech, and how the industry has changed over the years. Plus, w…

In this episode, we sit down with guitarist, orchestrator, and educator Ella Rae Feingold to discuss her musical journey, from growing up immersed in soul and funk to touring with artists like Erykah Badu. Ella opens up about her experience as a trans woman in the music industry, the challenges of touring, and how she evolved into orchestration for…

On this week’s episode, we catch up with singer Anna Ross, who has been performing backing vocals with Duran Duran since 2005. Anna takes us through her early days in Newcastle to breaking into the music industry, landing her first major touring gig with Lisa Stansfield, and eventually joining one of the most iconic bands in the world. She also tal…

This week Bernie catches up with longtime friend Joseph Ortiz, lead singer of Lockjaw. Joe opens up about his challenging upbringing, how music became his escape, and the life lessons he learned through his struggles. He talks about stepping away from performing for over a decade to focus on being a father and reclaiming his health. Now as the voca…

This week, Bernie and Lisa chat with Arya Goggin, drummer of Skindred, about the band’s unique sound and remarkable journey. Arya talks about his musical influences, life on the road, and the creative process behind the band’s success. He shares stories from his career and reflects on the strong connection Skindred has built with their fanbase. He …

In this episode, we chat with Sara Higgins, a talented guitar tech whose journey started as a classically trained cellist. Sara shares how seeing Judas Priest inspired her to pick up the guitar and eventually dive into the world of teching for major acts. She also opens up about her passion for equine massage therapy and photography, which provide …

This week Bernie and Lisa sit down with guitarists Peter Stroud and Trace Foster to discuss their new band, Close Enemies. The duo shares the story of how the band came together, their songwriting process, and the unique chemistry that drives their sound. They reflect on their decades of experience touring with icons like Sheryl Crow, Aerosmith, an…

This week Bernie chats with Keith Wallen, a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and talented solo artist. They discuss Keith’s musical journey, from his early days performing to joining Breaking Benjamin and then launching his solo career. Keith reflects on his creative process, shares insight into his solo project Infinity Now, and talks about the dedi…

This week Bernie and Lisa sit down to chat with Rachael O’Connor, a talented singer-songwriter and backing vocalist for Duran Duran. Rachael opens up about her journey from a shy, music-loving kid to performing on The Voice to sharing the stage with rock legends. She shares stories about overcoming stage fright, working with icons like Kylie Minogu…

In this episode, Bernie and Lisa chat with Dan Cleary, a seasoned guitar tech who’s spent nearly two decades on the road with icons like Jane’s Addiction and Marilyn Manson. Dan shares how he stumbled into his tech career, the wild mishaps he’s experienced, and the unique bond he’s built with artists over the years. He also discusses his passion fo…

This week, Bernie and Lisa talk with Ace Bergman, a world-class guitar tech with more than 20 years of experience in the live music industry. Ace shares his journey from hosting a death metal TV show in Los Angeles to working alongside legends like Slash, Whitesnake, and Matchbox Twenty. He recounts life on the road, the discipline he gained from h…

In this episode we chat with Harold Buchholz, a creative powerhouse whose career spans comics, animation, television, and publishing. Harold talks about his work on Mystery Science Theater 3000, his delightful comic Sweetest Beasts, and his dedication to advocating for family-friendly storytelling. From his love of Peanuts to the inspiration he dra…

This week, Bernie sits down with Greg Marra, a seasoned guitarist, guitar tech, and custom guitar builder. Greg takes us through his journey from a music-obsessed kid in Pittsburgh to working at the highest levels of the music industry. He shares valuable lessons learned from repairing and building guitars, as well as his experiences on arena tours…

This week Bernie sits down with Fred Kowalo, bass tech for Mötley Crüe’s Nikki Sixx. Fred shares his journey from small-town musician to working alongside some of rock’s biggest legends, with stories spanning decades of music history. From epic parties with Zakk Wylde to the unique challenges of life on the road, Fred reflects on his experiences wi…

In this episode, Bernie catches up with singer, songwriter, and guitarist Nick Gibson. Nick shares his journey from Oklahoma to Nashville, discussing his grandfather’s influence on his career and how he overcame early stage fright. He talks about how authenticity drives his songwriting and performance style, while reflecting on the impact of his Na…

In this episode, we chat with Mark Damian, a drummer, producer, and audio engineer whose career spans live performance, recording, and even sound design for film trailers. Mark reflects on his early years in Michigan, his journey to Los Angeles, and the challenges of carving out a place in the competitive music industry. He also shares stories abou…

This week, we’re joined by Russell Graham, a talented multi-instrumentalist, producer, songwriter, and vocalist, best known for his work with Nile Rodgers and Chic. Russell shares his journey from performing at the Apollo Theater to going viral with his rendition of the Soul Glo theme on NPR’s Tiny Desk. He discusses what it’s like to balance life …

This week, Bernie and Lisa sit down with Phillip W. Palmer, an Emmy-winning sound mixer celebrated for his work on hit shows like Glee and Better Call Saul. Phillip discusses the creative challenges of capturing high-quality sound on set, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from his time working with iconic stars. He explains that sound mixing goes f…

In this episode, Bernie and Lisa chat with Craig Pfunder, musician, producer, and musical director for Jake Shears. Craig shares his journey, from being adopted and growing up in an interracial family in Georgia, to discovering his passion for music. He reflects on his early influences, the evolution of VHS or Beta, and some of the challenges he fa…

This week we chat with Nick Rhodes, the legendary keyboardist and creative mastermind behind Duran Duran. In this episode, The Controller pulls back the curtain on some of the band’s most iconic performances, from breathtaking European venues to their upcoming Halloween spectacle at Madison Square Garden. We also explore his thoughts on the future …

This week, we sit down with Adam Moyer and Kiara Williams of the musical duo Key to Adam. They share how they met during an open mic and instantly connected through music. Adam opens up about using music as therapy, while Kiara talks about her journey as a self-taught violinist and West Virginia Fiddle Champion. Together, they discuss their diverse…

In this episode, Bernie talks with Paige McKenna Grube and Stacy Stanton-Runge about GOLD: The Documentary. GOLD explores the lives of dancers at the Gold Nugget strip club in Spread Eagle, Wisconsin. Paige discusses her background in filmmaking and the journey of creating a film that humanizes and uplifts women in the adult industry, while Stacy s…

This week Bernie sits down with Jim Runge, a tour manager with over 35 years in the music industry. Jim talks about his early days in the Green Bay punk scene, playing in a band that once caught the attention of a young Dave Grohl. He shares his career transition into production and tour management, balancing his work with raising a family, and how…

In this episode, Bernie chats with Bobby Liebling, co-founder and lead singer of doom metal pioneers Pentagram. Bobby discusses the band's upcoming album, “Lightning in a Bottle”, their first in ten years, featuring a revamped lineup with members Tony Reed & Scooter Haslip of Mos Generator and Henry Vasquez of Saint Vitus. Bobby reflects on the cha…

This week, Lisa and Bernie sit down with actor, author and musician, Keanu Reeves. Keanu shares the story of Dogstar's reunion after 22 years, the inspiration behind their latest album, “Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees”, and the passion he has for the gear he’s using on their current tour. He discusses “The Book of Elsewhere”, a bo…

In this episode, Bernie catches up with longtime friend Will "Mekatron" Jones, a multi-talented musician, composer, and digital forensics expert. Will discusses how his company, Mekatron Media Group provides services ranging from music production to assisting law enforcement with digital investigations. He shares how personal experiences pushed him…

This week Bernie chats with guitarist, songwriter and founder of A Curious Beast, Toby Bittenbender. Toby discusses the band's formation, the release of their debut single "Waves," (available now on all streaming platforms) and how his sobriety played a crucial role in his musical resurgence. He opens up about his past with the band JIBE, the abrup…

This week we chat with Serena Duffin, a wardrobe stylist, costumer, and freelance photographer in the film and television industry. Serena shares her journey from growing up in West Texas to breaking into the industry and eventually working on major projects like "Nebraska," "Griselda," "Young Rock," and "For All Mankind." She discusses the challen…

This week we had the pleasure o' sittin' doon and bletherin' with Ross Louden, a guitar tech from Greenock, Scotland. Ross shares his journey from studying music to becoming a tech for bands like Stone Sour, American Head Charge, and Buckcherry. Ross discusses the challenges of life on the road in a high-pressure environment and emphasizes the impo…

In this episode, we chat with Simon Grocott, an experienced music industry professional who has worn many hats, from stage managing to tech work and everything in between. Simon shares his journey from growing up in East Sussex and starting as a motor mechanic to touring with iconic acts like Cliff Richard and Elton John. He reflects on the stark c…

This week we sit down with Simon Le Bon, the iconic lead singer of Duran Duran. We congratulate him on receiving an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) and discuss his dedication to causes like marine conservation and helping the homeless. He then gives us a peek into his SiriusXM show "Whooosh!" and his passion for discovering new musi…

This week we sit down with author and painter Carol Dawson to discuss her true crime podcast, "The Unforgotten," co-hosted with Wes Ferguson. Carol talks to us about the haunting story of Shelley Watkins' murder, a case that has remained unsolved for over 30 years. She shares chilling details of Shelley's death, some of the investigation's obstacle…

In this episode, we sit down with Clayton Peters, brother and manager of comedian Russell Peters. Clayton discusses their working-class upbringing in Ontario, Canada and the early experiences that shaped their careers. He reflects on the challenges and successes of managing Russell’s global comedy business, from their early DJ days to selling out a…

This week we have the pleasure of sitting down with front of house engineer, Brad Divens. Brad shares his journey from aspiring rock star to seasoned sound engineer, recounting stories from his time with Kix, Wrathchild America and Souls at Zero as well as his transition into FOH mixing for acts such as Linkin Park, Disturbed, Monster Magnet and En…

This week we sit down with Howie Abrams, a music executive turned author from New York City. Howie discusses his journey from working at major record labels to writing. He has now authored ten books, including the soon-to-be-released biography of Vinny Stigma from Agnostic Front titled, "The Most Interesting Man in the World". Howie also discusses …

This week Bernie reconnects with his childhood friend, Jeff Capehart, an artist known for his unique one-line "squiggly" art. Jeff discusses his journey from Corsicana, Texas, to Mesa, Arizona, the method to his artistic process, and the inspirations behind his work. He also shares his experience of creating custom pieces and the satisfaction he fi…

In this week’s episode, I am back in the driver’s seat and interviewing my podcast partner Bernie Guerra about his recent work with Duran Duran and U2. Bernie shares behind-the-scenes details of the U2 Las Vegas Sphere residency, what it was like looking after Adam Clayton, and some of the differences between working a residency and being on tour. …

In this week’s episode, we sit down with veteran FOH engineer Karl “Snake” Newton. Snake discusses his background as a bassist turned sound engineer, as well as his use of innovative technologies like virtual soundchecks and snapshot automation. He also shares his unique perspective on live sound mixing and some of the challenges that come with del…

In this week’s episode we are joined by UK-based Systems Engineer, Wayne Hall. Wayne's impressive portfolio includes working with Lady Gaga, Roger Waters, and Duran Duran. He tells us how he got into audio engineering and about some of the technical challenges he faces during gigs. He shares his thoughts on the importance of maintaining a positive …

This week we sit down with Scarlett Deering, a versatile violinist and fiddler who performs in both touring bands and recording sessions. Scarlett talks about the differences between playing violin and fiddle, and the nuances of being a side musician, and the excitement and pressures of touring. She also discusses overcoming self-doubt and the impo…