Journey of a Frontman

Incredibly saddened to learn about the passing of Jimmy Webb. He was an icon of NYC, as well as being the face, heart and soul of Trash and Vaudeville as well as I NEED MORE.   I had the pleasure of interviewing Jimmy at Trash and Vaudeville for Journey of a Frontman and really loved everything he had to say. Anyone who knew Jimmy recognized how much PASSION he had and how incredible he was to everyone.   Thank you for everything, my friend.

Good Guy Alert is BACK! Will "FREEWILL" Wilson & Matt "Rootbrew" Routhier join Alex to catch up on Booyah!, Coffee Noodles, Cody Bondra's concert on the beach and much more!

Cody Bondra returns to Journey of a Frontman with stories about life on the road as a musician, joining several bands over the past year and how it's all helped inspire and push him to grow. Music from Cody Bondra & the Contraband.

Good Guy Alert! Matt Rootbrew and FREEWILL from UH! Low Battery take over the podcast alongside Alex with the very first episode of Good Guy Alert, exclusive to Journey of a Frontman. The three talk about what it means to be a good guy, the blink-182/Lil Wayne tour, restaurants and bands to check out in Hartford and plenty more!

Did you know that Andrew W.K. was the very first interviewee for Journey of a Frontman back in 2013? The King of Partying returns to JOAF to catch up as he and Alex discuss the powerful message and influence behind his brand new album, You're Not Alone, available now! Before going out on tour this month, Andrew showcased the power of positive partying right here on Journey of a Frontman.

Alex chats with Jack Swagger, the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion. The All-American American fills Alex in on all the latest happenings including signing with Bellator, his brand new clothing company, upcoming events and more!

Accomplished professional wrestler, author, plant-powered warrior (and singer!) Austin Aries stops by Journey of a Frontman to fill everyone in on the release of his brand new book, "Food Fight: My Plant-Powered Journey from the Bingo Halls to the Big Time". And there's some fun discussion about karaoke, House of Hardcore and his future.

Cody Bondra returns to JOAF as he and Alex chat about Cody's recent live shows, his upcoming album and take time to remember David Z.

Alex chats with James MacMillan, who was the drummer for The Days The Nights. But on top of that, he started a producer management company called Stateside Management. James has been hustling, striving and thriving with Stateside and provides a lot of insight on his position. The two also engage in discussion about TDTN, how patience and motivation come into play for new bands, music venues and plenty more.

You've come to know him as Simon Gotch of the Vaudevillains, but now you'll get to know Simon Grimm on Journey of a Frontman. Following his departure from WWE, the former NXT tag team champion and pop culture enthusiast has an incredibly engaging chat with Alex. There's plenty to talk about including stories from his time in the WWE, traveling the world with his fellow colleagues, his eclectic taste in music, his favorite television shows and the dynamic superstar's future plans. Everything's coming up Simon!

John Ryan of the good time party band Explicit returns to Journey of a Frontman for another fun chat. Two old friends catch up and reflect on song choices for the setlist, Alex's first time seeing Explicit for his 21st birthday, John's thoughts on the current live music scene throughout Connecticut, bringing a new singer into the mix, the fun he has playing live gigs and much more.

Frankie Kazarian returns to Journey of a Frontman after being on the very first episode over a year ago. When he's not kicking ass and taking names in Ring of Honor alongside "The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels, the wrestling veteran is playing bass in VexTemper. The band just released their debut album Doom Engine, which is now available on Spotify and iTunes. The Southern California rockers stand by the genre of "desert metal", embracing their roots and love for legendary metal acts such as Pantera. Frankie and Alex talk about the recording of the album, the chemistry with his bandmates, his appreciation of walking alongside the desert, plans for 2017 and more. Plus there's plenty of chatter about Christopher Daniels finally winning the big one, Wrestlemania weekend, trips to Cracker Barrel and stories about his fellow wrestling brethren.

Michael Draper, the frontman for The Days The Nights (and now The Without) stops by Journey of a Frontman to talk about The Without's debut EP, the path that he went on following TDTN, coffee and marijuana in the northwestern states, the quirks of bars and plenty more. Alex and Michael have an extensive history dating back to the early days of JOAF, two worlds collide for one awesome episode!

Alex and Cody Bondra hit the road following his gig at The Space in Hamden, CT. The two discuss Cody’s set, It’s Always Sunny, innuendo in childhood cartoons, burritos and the continued path of this thing called life.

Joey Cassata, the very first guest on Journey of a Frontman nearly a year ago, makes his return to share some exciting news. He's currently the drummer for the hit Broadway production, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. The musical has been selling out, getting great reviews and is certainly giving Hamilton a run for its money. Joey reflects on what an incredible experience it has been so far, what he's taking out of it and everything that led up to this opportunity. Plus, John Polydoros makes his first appearance on Journey of a Frontman following a successful acoustic tour as part of Off With Their Heads. John plays guitar alongside Ryan Young (the guest on episode 26) and it's been quite an experience as of late. The band's very best songs have a new feel on stage and on the brand new LP. John shares stories and insight about how this helps strengthen the songs, being in the spotlight alongside Ryan on the tour, what 2017 holds for the band and plenty more.

Joel David Moore has made a name for himself on the big screen, as well as on the television screen. He's getting ready for a big 2017 which includes starring in an Amazon pilot called Budding Prospects, as well as directing an upcoming feature. Joel and Alex dig deep into topics including marijuana in modern day society and how it ties into Budding Prospects, their memories and experiences with Circuit City and Best Buy, taking roles in music videos and preparing for the role of Joey Ramone in the CBGB film alongside the late Alan Rickman. Plus, Alex takes some time to share his thoughts on reflect on what a year it has been for Journey of a Frontman. A big thanks and happy holidays to all of the wonderful guests throughout 2016 and of course to you, the listener!

Ryan Young is the powerful voice of the highly regarded punk band, Off With Their Heads. He recently released an acoustic record called Won’t Be Missed and it features ten of their best songs stripped down and reimagined. While on tour for the special acoustic gigs, Ryan and Alex sat down to talk about Won’t Be Missed, the straightforward lyrics, his relationship with CM Punk, the results of the 2016 election, the observations of everyday life and plenty more.

Alex sits down with Matt Whitney and John Dotson of Connecticut's alternative rock trio, Whatsoever. It's been quite a 2016 for the band...releasing their debut album, playing shows all over the state, balancing band life and family life, getting songs ready for 2017 and much more! Get to know Whit and John in this fun episode.

Alex and return guest, Cody Bondra, sit down with a bottle of wine to share their thoughts, opinions and frustrations regarding the nominees for the 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Austin Farmer is a drummer based out of Los Angeles and has taken part in some interesting projects. The entertainment business is in your blood when your dad just so happens to be Bill Farmer, a Disney icon and the legendary voice of Goofy. Austin and Alex talk in-depth about learning how to play drums, capitalizing on opportunities, anxiety-inducing gigs, the highs and lows of tour life, the importance of character and much more.

He’s the frontman in Slash’s band, the frontman for Alter Bridge, but today…he’s on Journey of a Frontman! It’s none other than Myles Kennedy, the ultra-talented and down to earth vocalist who, with Alter Bridge, just released the fifth studio album: The Last Hero. There’s plenty of great insight to be heard from one of the modern-day torchbearers of rock n’ roll.

Joe Murray brought a wallaby, a steer and a turtle to the table…along with the dream. And once that dream became a reality, it turned into a legacy. As the creator of Rocko’s Modern Life, Murray made a significant contribution to the legendary Nicktoons era, as well as nineties pop culture. But for those who are wondering if we’ll ever take a trip back to O-Town, a huge announcement was recently made. There is a TV special in the works! And it’s all coming from the creator himself. Talking in this episode about getting Rocko on television originally, Regular Show, plans for the TV special, amusing merchandise and more.

It's time to unlock the vault and unveil this never before seen or heard interview for Journey of a Frontman with Commander B. Hawkins, Raul Panther III and Murphy Weller of The Protomen. Taking you backstage to Warped Tour 2014, it's synthesizers and hot wings galore!

Cody Bondra is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter with plenty of stories, insight and honest opinions about his biggest passion on the planet...music! Whether it's a gig at Foxwoods that felt like an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm or playing on the same stage that the Rolling Stones did, it's all part of the journey for this charismatic frontman.

Alex sits down in New York City for an engaging conversation with the finest ring announcer today, Larry Legend. His voice is taking the world of wrestling and MMA by storm. You'll be able to hear the story for yourself straight from the man behind the voice. From how he initially practiced for the role to his thoughts on the massive wrestling boom in 2016 and plenty in-between, make your way down to check it out!

Andrew Freeman has taken charge as the voice of Last in Line, a band formed by members of the original Dio lineup. He's also been rocking the stage as part of the rock n' roll spectacle, Raiding the Rock Vault, at the Tropicana in Las Vegas. Andrew and Alex sit down backstage after a recent show to talk about various replacement singers throughout the past couple of years, where fans are getting their music from, the feeling on that stage, Steel Panther, karaoke and much more.

The 2016 Warped Tour had a packed and diverse lineup...and that includes Pepper and Reel Big Fish. Alex first sits down with the singer and bassist for Pepper, Bret Bollinger, for an incredibly insightful talk about life, philosophy, nonconformity, live shows and plenty more. Then it's a face to face discussion with trumpet player for Reel Big Fish, Johnny Christmas. The raw and honest thoughts and opinions continue as the two discuss touring, fan misconceptions about bands and the importance of strong relationships.

Formerly known as Santino Marella in the WWE, Anthony Carelli has been keeping busy since stepping out of the ring. Now he steps into the ring at Battle Arts Academy, the ultimate training center for tomorrow's stars of pro wrestling and MMA. He also has thoughts on the upcoming brand split, the big changes for Smackdown and addresses the possibility that he could be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame one day. And it's time to unlock the vault from September 2014, a sit-down chat with Matt Sydal, formerly known as Evan Bourne in the WWE. The high-flyer shares stories about learning from Kid Kash, how WWE discovered him, how he planned on gaining new viewers during a particular era, the RKO that has everybody talking and more.

John Ryan has lived life as a frontman with the original hard rock band Down Monday and the high energy cover band Explicit. He knows all about having a good time and has plenty of stories to share from his experiences with both bands...playing gigs at the beach, opening for Buckcherry, being a weekend warrior at Mohegan Sun and Margaritaville, putting his own spin on covering songs, keeping the setlist fresh and exciting, collaborating and playing with an assortment of bandmates and bands throughout the Connecticut scene and much, much more!

Ken Anderson knows how to turn up the trouble and make an impact…plus he’s no stranger to a microphone! Though no stranger to Journey of a Frontman, the Green Bay native makes his first appearance on the JOAF podcast. Controversies, stories, opinions, facts, nothing is off limits throughout this highly entertaining episode! …Episode!

At just twenty five years old, David Starr has quickly become one of the wrestlers to watch on the independent scene. Beyond Wrestling, CZW, House of Glory and NYWC are just a few of the companies where "The Product" has made his mark. Obert and Starr sit down for a fun and thoughtful chat all about the big world of wrestling.

Whether you know him as Bully Ray or Bubba Ray Dudley, check out this exclusive interview with the WWE Hall of Famer from the legendary ECW Arena in March 2015.

EC3 of Impact Wrestling (and the current House of Glory World Champion…as well as a lover of cats, The Simpsons and bacon jerky!) makes his way to Journey of a Frontman right before a successful title defense in New York City.

Alex Shelley, a Detroit native and one half of the Motor City Machine Guns, has made a big name for himself in TNA, Ring of Honor and New Japan. And did you know that he was in a band called The High Crusade? His taste in music is impeccable and you'll get to find out more about it when Obert and Shelley talk about his wrestling career, as well as how music has been a part of his entire life. Later on, the vault is being unlocked from April of 2015 with a special sit-down interview with arguably the most successful tag team today, The Young Bucks! Nick and Matt give insight on why Twitter is so important for wrestlers, share stories from their time in TNA, the experience of meeting fans and much more.

Right before a gig in Rhode Island, Alex sits down backstage with Paulie Z as well as his bandmates, Charles Ramsey (keys), Joey D’Alessio (bass) and Mike Sankari (drums) for an engaging and entertaining chat.

Alex sits down with the voice of The Rock 106.9 WCCC and iRockRadio, Mike Karolyi. It’s been a very eventful couple of years for Karolyi and the beloved station. From being pressured to adopt a classic rock format in 2013, getting bought out by a Christian station in August of 2014 with one final major broadcast and the revival in December of 2014 with iRockRadio, a worldwide internet radio station with an accompanying app. The former FM station made a heroic comeback with the authentic format featuring bands such as Metallica, Rage Against the Machine, Sevendust, as well as playing new bands and singles daily. Karolyi takes time to reflect on the past year and a half of iRockRadio and what the reaction and support from listeners and musicians has meant to him. The future for iRockRadio is so bright, you’ll have to pull out a pair of shades!

Eric Bischoff has seen it all in the world of wrestling. He's certainly no stranger to controversy, shocking surprises and the art of entertainment. Obert and Bischoff sit down to discuss his WWE experience, getting yourself over as a wrestler and his thoughts on present-day WWE. Plus, a special exclusive for JOAF! The vault is being opened for the very first time. It's a never before heard interview from September 2014 with Rob Van Dam. RVD shares his thoughts on the legalization of marijuana, the concept of nonconformity and his NXT experience when he took on Neville in a dream match at Full Sail.

Michael Aspinwall returns to JOAF with stories about his time as a server for Bubba Gump, the process of auditions and rejections, an upcoming web series, the future of Dr. Shelby and more.

Michael Aspinwall was featured on WWE programming throughout 2012 and 2013 as Dr. Shelby, the anger management therapist for Kane and Daniel Bryan. The character was met with critical acclaim and that comes as no surprise since Aspinwall knocked it out of the park every time that he was there. In part one of a special two part discussion, he opens up about his WWE experience and how much it meant to him. You'll get to learn about how he connected with Kane and Daniel on a personal level, the crazy situation that took place backstage during his first night on RAW, his thoughts on Daniel's retirement, witnessing firsthand how hard everyone in the WWE works 24/7 and plenty more!

It’s a special NYC edition of JOAF! Alex first sits down with the awesome David Z at Rockwood Music Hall in the Lower East Side prior to his show with Paulie Z later that night. Get filled in on his experiences with ZO2, Soto and Rubix Kube. Later on, get inside the mind of Ralph Sutton from The SDR Show and The Tour Bus Radio Show. The two engage and interact in the big city about breaking out in radio and podcasting, interviewing big time musicians, the best ways to consume entertainment in 2016 and much, much more.

Paulie Z broke out onto the entertainment scene as the frontman/guitarist for ZO2 and one of the stars on the hit IFC series, Z Rock. Fast forward to 2016: He’s a solo musician in LA and still takes the stage weekly…but with a twist! It's a fun chat all about what he's been up to as of late. (And of course, what he's been eating!)

Josh Segarra drops in to share insight on his past, present and future. He's got stories to share about his time on Sirens, meeting The Miz on set and how appreciative Josh is of wrestling. He currently has a big gig on Broadway as Emilio Estefan in On Your Feet! Get ready to learn more from Josh's perspective. PLUS: Marko DeSantis, lead guitarist for Sugarcult stops by JOAF and is loaded with fun stories about gig life, Henry Rollins, Lemmy, James Brown and much more.

Joey Cassata, best known for his time as the drummer of ZO2 and on the hit IFC series Z Rock, makes history as the very first guest on the Journey of a Frontman podcast. Joey is ready to fill everyone in on his upcoming sitcom, Wrestling with Joeylicious. And there’s plenty of wrestling memories and ZO2/Z Rock stories too! Highly regarded pro wrestler and bassist for VexTemper, Frankie Kazarian stops by to share his thoughts and feelings on Daniel Bryan’s retirement as well as his VexTemper experience.