Sanity Lounge

In this episode, Sparks, Ricky Wise, and Quack join us to talk about launching the first Woodshed Festival at the Baltimore Museum of Industry.We discuss the vision behind the event, this year's lineup, volunteer opportunities, sponsorships, and what attendees can expect on July 26.Rachel joins us for a fun conversation filled with music talk, festival planning, and the usual Sanity Lounge antics.Sponsored by Christopher Schafer Clothier.

We had Chris Hartman and Liz Rawlings of Let's Go! Music Festival in the Lounge for a deep dive into the festival's history and the current lineup.As the brother-and-sister team behind one of Maryland's fastest-growing music festivals, Chris and Liz talked about how the festival got started, how it has evolved over the years, booking artists, supporting local music, and what goes into putting together a weekend of live music for thousands of fans. The festival was born from their love of live music and has grown into a major event featuring national acts alongside local talent.We also took a look at this year's lineup and what's ahead for Let's Go! Music Festival.Learn more at: https://www.letsgofest.comFull episode available now on YouTube, Spotify, and all podcast platforms.Sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company

In this episode, we sit down with Judy Neff, co-owner and head brewer of Checkerspot Brewing Company.We talk about her PhD in microbiology, the origins of Checkerspot Brewing, the Baltimore craft beer scene, and the story behind beers like Juniperus IPA.Sponsored by Christopher Schafer Clothier.

In this episode, we sit down with Sam Sessa for a conversation about WTMD, Baltimore music history, and the projects and events he's helped organize throughout the years.We talk about Baltimore Unsigned, First Thursday, Dead for Kids, Phish for Kids, New/Next Film Fest, and artists including Beach House, Dan Deacon, Wye Oak, Snail Mail, Outcalls Frozen spectacular, and Enslow's Taylor Swift for kids.We also discuss Sam's early days working for The Baltimore Sun.Sponsored by Christopher Schafer Clothier.

John Rallo is back in the Lounge for another Sanity Cinema episode.This time we're talking about the 1999 film The 13th Warrior — the cult classic starring Antonio Banderas that blends Viking lore, action, horror, and adventure into one of the more unique movies of its era.We got into: • Why the movie still holds up • The atmosphere and practical effects • Viking mythology and storytelling • What made the film stand out back in 1999A fun conversation about a movie that's gained a serious cult following over the years.Full episode available now on YouTube, Spotify, and all podcast platforms.Sponsored by Christopher Schafer Clothier#SanityCinema #13thWarrior #JohnRallo #MoviePodcast #CultClassic #AntonioBanderas #FilmDiscussion #BaltimorePodcast #ChristopherSchaferClothier

We had Mariah Bonner in the Lounge for a conversation and an intimate live performance. Mariah brought a unique set, singing in English, French, and Spanish, with Marcus Dagan accompanying on keys, bringing a stripped-down, up-close feel to the session. We talked about her sound, her background, and what she's been working on, along with her work in modeling, acting, writing, and her training — and how it all connects to her music. Full episode available now on YouTube, Spotify, and all podcast platforms. Sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company

In this episode, we're joined by the Fitzkee Brothers for a conversation and a one-hour live performance recorded in the Lounge.We talk about their music, their process, and what they've been working on.Sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company.

In this episode, we sit down with Ed Hough, a Baltimore-based drummer known for his work with Smooth Kentucky, Ed Hough's Allman Brother Collective, and Ed Hough's Dead Collective.We talk about his projects, playing live, and the Baltimore music scene.Sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company.

We had @BigMeadow in the Lounge for conversation and a live performance. We talked about the band's sound, what they've been working on, and their upcoming album release show at the Creative Alliance on April 24. The new record is called “The Path of the Beam" and this episode features 3 songs from the album. "Wake Me" which the band released on Mar 1, The Wisdom of Anger, and a live version of Savoring Ritual (Alex). Along with the interview, the episode also features a live performance recorded in the studio. If you're in Baltimore, catch the band live at Creative Alliance for the album release show. Full episode available now on YouTube, Spotify, and all podcast platforms. Sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company

In this episode, we're joined by pianist and composer Marcus Dagan for a conversation and live performance in the Lounge.We talk about his career, musical influences, and approach to composition and performance, along with a live piano session recorded during the episode.This episode is sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company.

In this episode, we're joined by Gravedigger's Biscuits, featuring members of Iron Boss, From the Hills, and Jade.We talk about their sound, how the project came together, playing shows, and what's next, along with a live performance in the Lounge with Leppo on drums.This episode is sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company — great beer, great people, right here in Baltimore.

In this episode, we're joined by Uncle Kunkel's One Gram Band, a Baltimore funk-rock/jam band known for groove-driven songs and improvisation.We talk about how the band formed, their sound, and their approach to live performance, along with a performance recorded in the Lounge.This episode is sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company.#SanityLounge #UncleKunkel #OneGramBand #LiveMusic #BaltimoreMusic #CheckerspotBrewing

In Episode 62, we're joined by Piedmonsters for music and conversation.We talked about Piedmont blues, their sound, how the band formed, and what's next — plus a live performance recorded in the Lounge.Sponsored by Checkerspot Brewing Company.#SanityLounge #Piedmonsters #PiedmontBlues #LiveMusic #BaltimoreMusic #Podcast #CheckerspotBrewing

This Sanity Cinema episode was recorded in 2024 and sat unreleased — until now.We revisit Predator (1987) and talk through what makes it a classic, from the cast and setting to the way it blends action, sci-fi, and horror.A laid-back movie conversation about one of the most recognizable films of the era.This episode of Sanity Lounge is sponsored by Meighan Moves, Baltimore's trusted realtor helping people find their perfect spot in Charm City. Check them out at meighanmoves.com#SanityCinema #Predator #MoviePodcast #FilmTalk #1980sMovies #CultClassic #MeighanMoves

In this episode, we talk with Elizabeth Bonner, board member of UNITE Mt. Vernon and the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy.Elizabeth has spent years restoring and protecting historic homes throughout Baltimore and recently helped purchase the Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church, which is being transformed into a new community space.We cover preservation, community, and the future of Mt. Vernon.Learn more at: www.preservationmaryland.org www.unitemv.com

We had To The Moon in the Lounge — Chris (back for his third visit), Ryan, Austin, and Alex. They describe their sound as drum & bass, rock fusion, psychedelic instrumental jam — and they played a live set that matched the description perfectly.Follow the band: @tothemoonbaltimore Follow the show for more episodes like this.Brought to you by Christopher Schafer Clothier, custom suits crafted in Baltimore.

Josh — our friend and a Baltimore attorney — joins us to compare the movie …And Justice for All with the real justice system here. Spoiler: some things haven't changed as much as they should've.Follow the show for more movie breakdowns and conversations.Brought to you by Christopher Schafer Clothier, Baltimore custom suits.

Brought to you by Christopher Schafer Clothier, custom suits made right here in Baltimore.

Sponsored by Christopher Schafer Clothier — where Baltimore style meets craftsmanship.

This episode of Sanity Lounge is brought to you by Christopher Schafer Clothier, Baltimore's go-to for handcrafted suits and timeless style.

This week on Sanity Lounge, we're joined by Natalie Brooke and her band — brought to you by Christopher Schafer Clothier, Baltimore's home for custom suits and handcrafted style. Check them out at christopherschafer.com.The band kicked off the session with an 11-minute 30-second burst of pure creativity called “Noodles 2.0,” and the energy never stopped.We dug into how the band formed, their sound, performing live, and what keeps that spark alive on stage.

This episode of Sanity Lounge is sponsored by Meighan Moves, Baltimore's trusted realtor helping people find their perfect spot in Charm City. Check them out at meighanmoves.com.We hung out with Callum Toner (@luvcallum) to talk about her story, her songwriting, and the music that's been flowing from her heart. She also shared a few songs live in the Lounge, and they hit in all the right ways.It's honest, warm, and full of good energy.Subscribe so you don't miss future episodes with more voices and live music from the Lounge.#SanityLounge #CallumToner #SingerSongwriter #CharmCity #Podcast #IndieArtist

This episode of Sanity Lounge is sponsored by Meighan Moves, Baltimore's trusted realtor helping people find their perfect spot in Charm City. Check them out at meighanmoves.com.We sat down with comedian Mike Quindlen to talk stand-up, Baltimore's comedy scene, and what it's really like working clubs, bars, and stages all over. It's funny, real, and full of stories from a guy who's been there and seen it all.Subscribe so you don't miss more conversations, comedy, and culture from the Lounge.#SanityLounge #MikeQuindlen #ComedyPodcast #BaltimoreComedy #StandUpLife #Podcast

This episode of Sanity Lounge is sponsored by Meighan Moves, Baltimore's trusted realtor helping people find their perfect spot in Charm City. Check them out at meighanmoves.com.In this episode we sit down with John Rallo—fighter, coach, promoter, and owner of Ground Control Jiu Jitsu, Baltimore's home for BJJ and MMA. He's also the man behind the push to legalize MMA in Maryland. We talked about his career inside and outside the cage, what running Ground Control means to him, and how he's built community through the sport.Learn more at groundcontrolusa.com and follow @bmoremma.Subscribe so you don't miss more conversations and stories from the Lounge.#SanityLounge #JohnRallo #GroundControlJiuJitsu #MMA #Baltimore #CharmCity #BJJ #Podcast

This episode of Sanity Lounge is sponsored by Meighan Moves, Baltimore's trusted realtor helping people find their perfect spot in Charm City. Check them out at meighanmoves.com.We welcomed Pressing Strings into the Lounge for a fun conversation about their sound, gigs, how the band formed and found each other, Jordan's voice, and their favorite movies. And of course, they treated us to four live songs that show off their vibe perfectly.It's like hanging out with friends who happen to be incredible musicians. Subscribe so you don't miss more sessions and stories from the Lounge.#SanityLounge #PressingStrings #LiveMusic #IndieBand #MusicPodcast #BaltimoreMusic

This episode of Sanity Lounge is proudly sponsored by Meighan Moves, Baltimore's trusted realtor helping people find their perfect home in Charm City. Discover more at meighanmoves.comOn this episode of Sanity Lounge, we sit down with Splitsville, Baltimore's own power pop legends. We dig into their story, influences, and what keeps their sound alive decades later. Plus, you'll get an exclusive live in-studio performance recorded just for this show.Check them out at: www.splitsville.band

This episode of Sanity Lounge is brought to you by Meighan Moves, Baltimore's trusted realtor helping people find their perfect home in Charm City. Learn more at meighanmoves.com.Baltimore has a deep, complicated history — much of it hidden just beneath our feet. In this episode, we sit down with Evan Woodard, historian, explorer, and founder of Salvage Arc, to talk about unearthing forgotten artifacts, the stories they tell, and why preserving history matters.From unexpected magnet-fishing discoveries to running the Salvage Arc Foundation, Evan shares a fascinating look at the city's past and the thrill of finding its hidden treasures.Follow Evan: Website: salvagearc.com Instagram: @salvagearc

This week on Sanity Lounge, we sit down with the one and only Mickey Cucchiella — comedian, radio legend, and unapologetically outspoken voice of Baltimore. Mickey gets real about life after radio, the grind of comedy, reinventing yourself, and why staying true to your voice matters now more than ever.It's funny. It's raw. It's the kind of conversation you only get in the Lounge. #baltimore #comedy

Katie Bollinger pulls up to the Lounge for a fun, honest convo about Love Is Blind, her love of horror movies, and more than a decade behind the scenes with the Baltimore Ravens.We get into her time living in New Orleans with an NBA team, what brought her back to Baltimore, and why The Holiday(yes, The Holiday) is still her favorite movie — even though she's a huge horror fan.Amanda from Path to Happy joins as guest host, and the vibe is just right. Real talk, laughs, and some surprising moments along the way.

Anthony “Turk” Cannon brings smooth jazz with heart, blending it effortlessly with R&B, pop, and blues. Based in Maryland and shaped by the D.C. and L.A. music scenes, he's been making music that moves people for decades. He's performed at some of the country's best venues and collaborated with some of the greats in the genre.His original tracks—like “Good Morning Aruba” and “The Good News”—show off not just his chops, but his deep connection to the music. For Anthony, the sax is more than an instrument—it's an extension of who he is.

We had the absolute blast of hanging with MR VCR, the genre-bending trio straight out of Annapolis, MD. They brought the energy, the stories, and a killer live in-studio performance you don't want to miss.

We had Nathan Shulkin on the show recently. He's the drummer for Natalie Brooke and Greasy Hands, and he stopped by to jam on our kit for a bit. We talked about what it's like juggling a few bands and how he keeps things fresh when playing all the time.Nathan's a no-nonsense player who just gets the job done and makes the music feel right.Check out the full episode when you get a chance. And while you're at it, hit subscribe so you don't miss what's next. Also, head over to whatshappeningbaltimore.com to see what's happening around town.

Feather + Flask, the Baltimore-based four-piece blending folk, Americana, and soul, stopped by Sanity Lounge for an unforgettable live performance and conversation. Their harmonies are tight, their songwriting hits deep — and drummer Lisa brings it all home with a one-of-a-kind percussion kit you have to see (and hear) to believe.We talk band chemistry, creative process, local roots, and what it takes to hold an audience's heart — then they throw down a live set that proves exactly why they're a must-see band on the rise.

Sanity Lounge Episode 41: John Crocken of Persimmon DrumsticksIn this episode of Sanity Lounge, we sit down with the incredibly talented John Crocken—drummer, craftsman, and creator of Persimmon Drumsticks. We talk about his deep roots in percussion, the evolution of his career, and how his passion for drumming led to designing some of the finest handmade drumsticks on the market.

We had not one, but TWO incredible sound healing practitioners join us on the show—and it was an experience to remember.

We had a great time hanging out with Speakers of the House — a band made up of members from two well-known local groups, The Almighty Senators and The Junkyard Saints. They started playing together a couple of years ago, mainly to have fun and play the kind of old-school funk, boogaloo, and Latin music they all love.In this episode, we talk about how the band came together, what they're into, and why they play the music they do. They also played a few songs for us live — it was a good time all around.Hit play, check it out, and don't forget to like and subscribe if you're into it.#SpeakersOfTheHouse #LiveMusic #BandHangout #FunkVibes #MusicInterview

Can't believe it's already been a year since our first episode. Huge thanks to everyone who been listening, sharing and showing us love along the way!! To celebrate, we've got a brand new episode dropping tomorrow with the incredible Daphne Eckman and Thomas! We talked all kinds of stuff - music, growing up in Annapolis, barista life, songwriting, favorite TV shows, movies and why Baltimore is such a unique creative hub. PLUS she performed 4 amazing tracks live for us!! Check her out: IG: @daphneeckmanmuisc Website: https://www.daphneeckman.com #annapolis #baltimore #music #bmore #daphneeckman #sanitylounge #livemusic #ottobar #supportlocalmusic

We had the honor of hosting the insanely talented Talbot Mayo on the show—and wow, what a voice.

We're thrilled to have Baltimore musician Glorian on the show for an unforgettable conversation and performance!

We had an amazing time with Eyas in the lounge! She's a super talented local singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist who's worked with some incredible Baltimore artists. We got into her creative process, her influences, and she even shared some of her favorite movies and TV shows. Then she wrapped it up with a performance that'll leave you wanting more — seriously, her voice and musicianship are next level. Don't miss this one — like, share, and subscribe!

We had an amazing time with Eyas in the lounge! She's a super talented local singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist who's worked with some incredible Baltimore artists. We got into her creative process, her influences, and she even shared some of her favorite movies and TV shows. Then she wrapped it up with a performance that'll leave you wanting more — seriously, her voice and musicianship are next level. Don't miss this one — like, share, and subscribe!

We had the amazing Hat and Hair Bluegrass Band on the Sanity Lounge podcast! They delivered an incredible live performance and shared stories about their music, inspirations, and journey as a band.

We had the pleasure of welcoming Baltimore artist Enslow to the Sanity Lounge!