Podcasts about The Birchmere

Send us a textDonna Hughes has written north of 500 songs.  She has released 6 albums, containing mostly original material. Nominated for Songwriter of the Year in 2024 & 2025, for the SPBGMA Awards, her songs have been recorded & performed by Multiple Grammy Winner Alison Krauss & Union Station, Grammy Nominated Band-The Seldom Scene, Wyatt Rice's solo Album (with Vocals by Dale Ann Bradley & Russell Moore), Caroline Owens, The Snyder Family, Kati Penn, Kim Robins, Linda Lay, Wilson Banjo Co., Amanda Cook, Darren Beachley, A.J. Lee & The (Molly) Tuttles, Grass Country, Carlos & The Banditos, Nu-Blu & 2004 Country Colgate Showdown Winner Heather Shelley, as well as Bria Kelly of The Voice/America's Got Talent, Newtown, and various other Artists both well known & undiscovered, around the world.  Donna recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award, and an Award for her "Naomi Wise" Video at the Sunset Film Festival. She wrote the words & music for the Naomi Wise song, based on the life of a girl from her area, who died in 1808. The Video features Jenee Fleenor on Violin, who was awarded the CMA Musician of the Year for the last four years in a row (first female ever to win.) In 2014, Donna was awarded the "Key" to the City of Trinity, (where she resides), from the late Thomasville City Councilman Jesse Hill, as a gift of honor for all of her accomplishments.Donna's songs have been written about every subject from being stuck at Walmart, to dogs on chains.  She tries to balance life through song, from the spectrum of emotions life has to offer, from hilariously funny, to extremely sad.  Donna has judged Songwriting Contests & Conducted Songwriting Workshops around the Nation. Donna's career received a huge boost, when the Late & Legendary Tony Rice, approached her about producing an album for her, which he did, entitled “Gaining Wisdom.”Her next CD after that, “Hellos, Goodbyes & Butterflies,” was produced by the Late & Extraordinary J.D. Crowe. Donna's more notable appearances have included private performances for Race Car Giant Richard Childress; opening for David Bromberg at B.B. King's in NYC, playing the World Renowned Music Festival "Merlefest," playing The Bear Trap in Wyoming, The Ossippee Festival in Maine, the PBS  “Song of the Mountains" in Marion, VA, the PBS Program "Live from the Dennison Lodge" in Dubois, Wyoming, multiple performances at Bluebird Cafe & The Station Inn, both in Nashville, multiple times at Eddie's Attic in Atlanta, opening for Marty Stuart at a Premier Dinner Club near Washington D.C. known as "The Birchmere." Donna has opened for many Country Stars such as Ricky Skaggs, at Dollywood, Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush & Tony Rice on their solo Tours, Joe Diffie, Gene Watson, and numerous other popular, high profile venues.   Donna is an Award Winning Realtor in North Carolina, and enjoys spending her spare time on her Grandaddy's 3rd Generation Farm with her Belgian Horses, her Bassett Hounds, Beagles, other rescue Animals, and painting Barn Quilts.Check out our Special Episode featuring “Divided We Fall”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Ha_duIn0wITop 5 Songs of Encouragement1) “One Less Dog In the Cold” by Donna Hugheshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLfkg-vxkMo2) “The Corona Virus Beer Song” by Donna Hugheshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQAc82DPTNw3) “The Stable Song” by Gregory Alan Isakov with the Colorado Symphonyhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqyAmmEkVvI4) “Barbed Wire Boys” by Susan Wernerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpsF2wb6NmE5) “Picture in a Frame” by Tom Waitshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fphxDPTV2BwSupport the show

Send us a textDonna Hughes has written north of 500 songs.  She has released 6 albums, containing mostly original material. Nominated for Songwriter of the Year in 2024 & 2025, for the SPBGMA Awards, her songs have been recorded & performed by Multiple Grammy Winner Alison Krauss & Union Station, Grammy Nominated Band-The Seldom Scene, Wyatt Rice's solo Album (with Vocals by Dale Ann Bradley & Russell Moore), Caroline Owens, The Snyder Family, Kati Penn, Kim Robins, Linda Lay, Wilson Banjo Co., Amanda Cook, Darren Beachley, A.J. Lee & The (Molly) Tuttles, Grass Country, Carlos & The Banditos, Nu-Blu & 2004 Country Colgate Showdown Winner Heather Shelley, as well as Bria Kelly of The Voice/America's Got Talent, Newtown, and various other Artists both well known & undiscovered, around the world. Donna recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award, and an Award for her "Naomi Wise"Video at the Sunset Film Festival. She wrote the words & music for the Naomi Wise song, based on the life of a girl from her area, who died in 1808. The Video features Jenee Fleenor on Violin, who was awarded the CMA Musician of the Year for the last four years in a row (first female ever to win.) In 2014, Donna was awarded the "Key" to the City of Trinity, (where she resides), from the late Thomasville City Councilman Jesse Hill, as a gift of honor for all of her accomplishments.Donna's songs have been written about every subject from being stuck at Walmart, to dogs on chains.  She tries to balance life through song, from the spectrum of emotions life has to offer, from hilariously funny, to extremely sad.  Donna has judged Songwriting Contests & Conducted Songwriting Workshops around the Nation. Donna's career received a huge boost, when the Late & Legendary Tony Rice, approached her about producing an album for her, which he did, entitled “Gaining Wisdom.”Her next CD after that, “Hellos, Goodbyes & Butterflies,” was produced by the Late & Extraordinary J.D. Crowe. Donna's more notable appearances have included private performances for Race Car Giant Richard Childress; opening for David Bromberg at B.B. King's in NYC, playing the World Renowned Music Festival "Merlefest," playing The Bear Trap in Wyoming, The Ossippee Festival in Maine, the PBS  “Song of the Mountains" in Marion, VA, the PBS Program "Live from the Dennison Lodge" in Dubois, Wyoming, multiple performances at Bluebird Cafe & The Station Inn, both in Nashville, multiple times at Eddie's Attic in Atlanta, opening for Marty Stuart at a Premier Dinner Club near Washington D.C. known as "The Birchmere." Donna has opened for many Country Stars such as Ricky Skaggs, at Dollywood, Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush & Tony Rice on their solo Tours, Joe Diffie, Gene Watson, and numerous other popular, high profile venues.   Stay tuned, as Donna will continue to write songs & make records packed with original material. Donna is an Award Winning Realtor in North Carolina, and enjoys spending her spare time on her Grandaddy's 3rd Generation Farm with her Belgian Horses, her Bassett Hounds, Beagles, other rescue Animals, and painting Barn Quilts.“Divided We Fall” by Donna Hughes (video version)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTjqYPuQ_AUSupport the show

Jason Fraley interviews Airrion Love, founding member of the classic soul group The Stylistics, which performs live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia this Sunday. They reflect on the group's iconic tunes like “Stop, Look, Listen,” “Break Up to Make Up” and “You Make Me Feel Brand New.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

Jason Fraley interviews the hilarious Hank Azaria, who brings his Bruce Springsteen tribute band to The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia this Thursday, followed by Baltimore Soundstage in Baltimore, Maryland on Friday. He also recreates his most famous voices from “The Simpsons” and reflects on his best movies from “Quiz Show” to “The Birdcage.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

Jason Fraley interviews comedian Paula Poundstone, who cracks up The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Nov. 22 and Nov. 23. She calls in to preview her standup show and reacts to the political aftermath of last week's U.S. presidential election heading into a second Trump Administration. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's Clarion")

Jason Fraley interviews Sixpence None the Richer guitarist Matt Slocum as the band is ready to rock The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Nov. 3. They preview the show and reflect on the band's biggest ‘90s hits from the iconic “Kiss Me” to their cover of The La's “There She Goes.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Fraley interviews Sixpence None the Richer guitarist Matt Slocum as the band is ready to rock The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Nov. 3. They preview the show and reflect on the band's biggest ‘90s hits from the iconic “Kiss Me” to their cover of The La's “There She Goes.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Fraley interviews comedian Larry Wilmore, who performs live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Oct. 14. He calls in to preview the show and reflect on his career, including “The Bernie Mac Show,” “Insecure,” "The Daily Show” and “The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Fraley interviews comedian Larry Wilmore, who performs live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Oct. 14. He calls in to preview the show and reflect on his career, including “The Bernie Mac Show,” “Insecure,” "The Daily Show” and “The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Fraley interviews Grammy-winning soul artist Bilal, who performs live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Oct. 11. They break down his entire career from his breakthrough album “1st Born Second” to his Kendrick Lamar collaboration on “To Pimp a Butterfly” to his newest album “Adjust Brightness.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Fraley interviews Grammy-winning soul artist Bilal, who performs live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Oct. 11. They break down his entire career from his breakthrough album “1st Born Second” to his Kendrick Lamar collaboration on “To Pimp a Butterfly” to his newest album “Adjust Brightness.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bassist Christian de Mesones has honed his musical skills throughout his adult life while working various jobs to make ends meet.  In 2021, this rising star garnered the attention of Dave Koz and landed on several jazz charts and Sirius XM's Watercolors.  His latest album is You Only Live Twice and features his first #1 hit.  Multi-award winning program director, Ray White, traveled to Metro Washington, DC's Birchmere venue to sit down with Christian before his show to talk about the new album, his life's twist and turns and his music.  You'll find more from Christian on Episode 166!  Lisa Davis, your "Hostess With The Mostest," highlights the latest from R&B/Soul singer Leela James who released Thought U Knew in 2023.  She also has the spotlight on the legendary duo of Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin, whose latest album is Brazil and saxophonist extraordinaire Walter Beasley whose new single Funk Foot just dropped.  Contemporary Jazz with a touch of R&B/Soul on this show from your friends at the Coool CAT!

WTOP's Jason Fraley interviews comedian Donnell Rawlings, who comes home to The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Saturday night. They discuss his journey from attending T.C. Williams High School in Virginia to starring in some of TV's most iconic series from the drama of “The Wire” to the comedy of “Chappelle's Show.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WTOP's Jason Fraley interviews comedian Donnell Rawlings, who comes home to The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Saturday night. They discuss his journey from attending T.C. Williams High School in Virginia to starring in some of TV's most iconic series from the drama of “The Wire” to the comedy of “Chappelle's Show.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews country singer/songwriter Maggie Rose, who returns home to perform live at the Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on Friday, followed by The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Sunday. She reflects on growing up in Potomac, Maryland before making the journey to Nashville to perform at the Grand Ole Opry over 100 times. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews country singer/songwriter Maggie Rose, who returns home to perform live at the Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on Friday, followed by The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Sunday. She reflects on growing up in Potomac, Maryland before making the journey to Nashville to perform at the Grand Ole Opry over 100 times. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews Ruth Moody of the folk/bluegrass group The Wailin' Jennys as she brings her solo tour to the Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on Tuesday, May 21, followed by The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Thursday, May 23. They discuss her new solo album “Wanderer” and reflect on The Wailin' Jennys' hits from “Long Time Traveler” to “Wildflowers.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews Ruth Moody of the folk/bluegrass group The Wailin' Jennys as she brings her solo tour to the Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on Tuesday, May 21, followed by The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Thursday, May 23. They discuss her new solo album “Wanderer” and reflect on The Wailin' Jennys' hits from “Long Time Traveler” to “Wildflowers.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews BoDeans frontman Kurt Neumann as the band rocks Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on Wednesday, followed by The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Friday and the Tally Ho Theater in Leesburg, Virginia on Sunday. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews BoDeans frontman Kurt Neumann as the band rocks Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on Wednesday, followed by The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Friday and the Tally Ho Theater in Leesburg, Virginia on Sunday. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews country music star Phil Vassar, who performs live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Oct. 20. They discuss his journey from growing up in Virginia to writing huge songs for other county artists before landing his own chart-topping hits like “Six Pack Summer,” “Just Another Day in Paradise” and “In a Real Love.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews country music star Phil Vassar, who performs live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Oct. 20. They discuss his journey from growing up in Virginia to writing huge songs for other county artists before landing his own chart-topping hits like “Six Pack Summer,” “Just Another Day in Paradise” and “In a Real Love.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley catches up with Edwin McCain, who rocks The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Thursday night and Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on Friday night. They also discuss his career highlights from “I'll Be” to “I Could Not Ask For More.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley catches up with Edwin McCain, who rocks The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Thursday night and Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on Friday night. They also discuss his career highlights from “I'll Be” to “I Could Not Ask For More.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews Nils Lofgren of the E Street Band to fill the void of Bruce Springsteen's postponed tour date tomorrow at Nats Park in Washington D.C. If you still need your fix of The Boss, we're filling the void by flashing back to this 2018 convo with Lofgren when he rocked The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia, sharing stories about growing up in D.C., meeting Neil Young in Georgetown and even writing the sports theme "Bullets Fever." (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews Nils Lofgren of the E Street Band to fill the void of Bruce Springsteen's postponed tour date tomorrow at Nats Park in Washington D.C. If you still need your fix of The Boss, we're filling the void by flashing back to this 2018 convo with Lofgren when he rocked The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia, sharing stories about growing up in D.C., meeting Neil Young in Georgetown and even writing the sports theme "Bullets Fever." (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews Lee Ann Womack as today marks the 25th anniversary of her album “Some Things I Know" (1998), which delivered county hits like “A Little Past Little Rock” and “I'll Think of a Reason Later," teeing up the success of her next album “I Hope You Dance.” They spoke in 2015 to preview that night's CMA Awards, as well as her performance at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley interviews Lee Ann Womack as today marks the 25th anniversary of her album “Some Things I Know" (1998), which delivered county hits like “A Little Past Little Rock” and “I'll Think of a Reason Later," teeing up the success of her next album “I Hope You Dance.” They spoke in 2015 to preview that night's CMA Awards, as well as her performance at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been a busy couple of weeks for us family. Thank you for your patience. In between coming across new/old gems and new jams, we had a chance to check out the one, and only, Raheem Devaughn at The Birchmere in Alexandria over the Labor Day Weekend. Raheem turned the party out for 2 and a half hours, with no breaks.  Yes, you heard correctly, 2 and a half hours with no breaks in between.  He graced us with his latest jams, plus the classic cuts we've all come to love. Talk about another one for the memory books, this show ranks up in there. One love to Raheem Devaughn, and to Birchmere.  We will be back.  Now, we're back in the big chair, onward with the show. In this episode, we get it in with some great new/old gems with Terri Wells, Leroy Burgess, Marvin Gaye, Freddie Jackson, new music from Erica Falls, and the latest from DMo! Oh yeah, if you have a request, by all means, drop us a line at greatsoulradio@gmail.com. We got you covered. Thanks as always for tuning in, and remember--- Tell a friend, to tell a friend, to tell a friend, all about The Throwback Lounge. It's not just a show---- IT'S AN EXPERIENCE!! 1 LOVE ;) LEAD-IN CUT: LADY- D'ANGELOOPENING CUT: FREE- DENIECE WILLIAMS (DAVE LE RE-GROOVED MIX)1. KEEPIN' LOVE NEW- WEZ2. I'M GIVIN' ALL MY LOVE- TERRI WELLS3. BAD HABITS- JENNI BURTON4. YOU CAN'T HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO- BRENDA TAYLOR5. HEARTBREAKER- LEROY BURGESS (SHEP PETTIBONE 12" MIX)6. THE RIDE- ZO! & TALL BLACK GUY FEAT. SY SMITH7. SUMMERTIME IN THE LBC- THE DOVE SHACK8. JUICY- CON FUNK SHUN9. TURN ON SOME MUSIC- MARVIN GAYE10. NICE AND SLOW- FREDDIE JACKSON11. IT KEEPS ME COMING BACK- ROCKET 12. 365- TEENA MARIE13. I LIKE WHAT YOU DO- THE COMMODORES14. BABY, BABY MY LOVE'S FOR YOU- DENIECE WILLIAMS15. NOTHING TO IT- PLEASURE16. LIVING THE GOOD LIFE- THE GROOVE ASSOCIATION FEAT. GEORGIE B. 17. STAY A LITTLE WHILE, CHILD- LOOSE ENDS18. I LOVE YOU MORE- RENE' AND ANGELA19. MY FORBIDDEN LOVER- CHIC' 20. YOUR LOVE IS ON THE ONE- LAKESIDECHAMPAGNE HOUR21. WONDERLAND- DMo! 22. ALL MINE- RALPH TRESVANT & JOHNNY GILL23. JUST RIGHT- RAHEEM DEVAUGHN24. IF I WAS YOUR MAN- REEL PEOPLE FEAT. MICHAEL CHAMPION25. MOAN- MINT CONDITION26. RIGHT AND A WRONG WAY- KEITH SWEAT27. UP- ERICA FALLS28. YOU TAKE MY BREATH AWAY- MIRACLE THOMAS29. LOVE ME- TRACIE SPENCER30. ALL SEASON- LEVERT31. BECAUSE IT'S REALLY LOVE- LUTHER VANDROSS32. THAT LET'S ME KNOW I'M IN LOVE- MCFADDEN & WHITEHEAD33. LADY IN MY LIFE- THE ENKI & ENLIL PROJECT (STEVEN RUSSELL HARTS & ALLEN MCNEIL)34. YOU GOT ME- CHRIS TURNER & JARROD LAWSON35. LOVE OF MY LIFE- BRIAN MCKNIGHT36. CANDLELIGHT AND YOU- CHANTE' MOORE & KEITH WASHINGTON37. DON'T STOP LOVING ME- CHAPTER 838. SIDE BY SIDE- I.N.D.39. YOU'RE MY GIRL- CHANGECLOSING CUT: I GOT THE LOVE- STARPOINT 

Join Michael in his conversation with Stephen Moore about the book he co-authored with Gary Oezle: All Roads Lead to the Birchmere: America's Legendary Music Hall, which chronicles the creation and growth of the Birchmere one of America's great independent music venues just outside of Washington, DC. Michael's special guest is Peter Noone.

Singer-songwriter and folk-rock musician Al Stewart checks in with Lisa ahead of his appearance at the Birchmere in Alexandria on March 16.They discuss his biggest hit, 'Year of the Cat,' his songwriting process, and his many stories of being a part of the music scene in London in the '60s.Stewart hung out with The Beatles at the height of Beatlemania, was roommates with Paul Simon, and knew Yoko Ono before she ever met John Lennon.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with singer/songwriter Vanessa Carlton, who performs live at Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on March 1 and The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on March 2. They discuss her newest album “Love is an Art” with songs like “Future Pain” and “Die, Dinosaur,” as well as how her pilot father got her demo tape to a record exec for her breakthrough hit “A Thousand Miles.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with singer/songwriter Vanessa Carlton, who performs live at Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on March 1 and The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on March 2. They discuss her newest album “Love is an Art” with songs like “Future Pain” and “Die, Dinosaur,” as well as how her pilot father got her demo tape to a record exec for her breakthrough hit “A Thousand Miles.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the fourth hour of the morning show, Larry O'Connor and Julie Gunlock talked to Susan Ferrechio and Andy McCarthy. They also discussed the DC crime bill, the passing of our friend at the Birchmere and an update on Oscar nominations. For more coverage on the issues that matter to you, visit www.WMAL.com, download the WMAL app or tune in live on WMAL-FM 105.9 FM from 5-9 AM ET. To join the conversation, check us out on Twitter: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor,  @Jgunlock,  @patricepinkfile and @heatherhunterdc.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with singer/actress Leighton Meester as this weekend marks the 10th anniversary of the "Gossip Girl" finale on Dec. 17, 2012. They spoke when Meester performed a live concert at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia back in 2015. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with legendary cult filmmaker John Waters, who brings "A John Waters Christmas" to The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Dec. 21. He shares memories of growing up in Baltimore, protesting in D.C. and directing cult classics like "Pink Flamingos" and "Hairspray," which of course became a smash Broadway musical. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with singer/songwriter Karla Bonoff, who brings her "Home for the Holidays" tour to The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Dec. 11. They discuss recording hits like “Somebody's Eyes” on the “Footloose” soundtrack, as well as writing hits for other artists like Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt, Aaron Neville and Wynonna Judd. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Rascals founder Felix Cavaliere to mark the 55th anniversary of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band's last single as The Young Rascals before changing its name to The Rascals. They spoke when Cavaliere and co-founder Gene Cornish played The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia in 2018, breaking down hits like "Good Lovin'," "Groovin'" and "A Beautiful Morning." (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with comedian Paula Poundstone, who brings post-election humor to The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Friday and Saturday. They discuss the state of American politics during the first midterm elections since the Jan. 6 insurrection. (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Bill Medley to mark the 35th anniversary of "Dirty Dancing" on Aug. 21, 1987, featuring the Oscar-winning song "(I've Had) The Time of My Life" by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes. Jason spoke to Medley when his Righteous Brothers played The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia in 2017, reflecting on hits like "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" and "Unchained Melody," which a new generation discovered in "Top Gun" and "Ghost." (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with hilarious actor/comedian Jane Lynch, who just this week got renewed for a third season as host of the hit NBC game show "The Weakest Link." They spoke in 2015 when Lynch played The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia, just days before the series finale of "Glee." She also discusses her most successful film roles from "The Fugitive" to "The 40-Year-Old Virgin." (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with country music legend Marty Stuart, who performs live tomorrow at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. They spoke when Stuart previously played The Birchmere in October of 2020, discussing touring during the pandemic and sharing memories of hits like “Burn Me Down” and his participation in Ken Burns' PBS documentary series “Country Music.” (Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Lonnie Jordan of the classic funk-rock band War, who plays the Lake Arbor Jazz Festival in Mitchellville, Maryland tonight, followed by The Tally-Ho Theater in Leesburg, Virginia on July 29. They spoke when the band played The Birchmere back in 2016, breaking down the band's catchiest hits like "Spill the Wine," "Low Rider" and "Why Can't We Be Friends?" (Royalty-Free Theme Music: Scott Buckley's "Clarion")

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley salutes the genius of Frank Zappa as The Zappa Band plays The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Sunday and Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland next Tuesday. First, you'll hear a brand new conversation with Zappa Band member Mike Keneally, who takes a deep dive into Zappa's records, followed by a throwback conversation with Frank's son Dweezil Zappa from 2016.

Joe Uehlein is the founding President of Voices for a Sustainable Future and the Labor Network for Sustainability. Joe is the former Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO's Industrial Union Department and former director of the AFL-CIO's Center for Strategic Campaigns. Joe spent 35 years doing bargaining, organizing, public policy, and strategic campaign work in the labor movement. Joe also served on the United Nations first commission on global warming from its founding in 1988 until 2003. In the early 1970's he worked in an aluminum mill in Mechanicsburg, PA as a member of the United Steelworkers of America, and then on heavy and highway construction projects as a member of the Laborer's International Union of North America. Joe is most often seen fronting The U-Liners, his band of 19 years: www.uliners.com. Joe's been playing (guitar & vocals) in bands for nearly 54 years, since the age of 13, and has played all across the U.S., as well as in Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, Great Britain, and Venezuela. Joe's music over the years has spanned genres from rock'n roll to bluegrass, folk to jazz, country to Motown, and more. From his early days growing up along the banks of the great Lake Erie, and working in an aluminum mill in Central Pennsylvania and on heavy and highway construction, and playing with Billy Wray & the Expressions, Joe developed a keen interest in Rock & Roll, Soul, and the Folk and Country sounds of working class music. Joe has performed with Pete Seeger, Lester Chambers of The Chambers Brothers, Dave Alvin, Steve Earle, Tom Morello, Boots Riley, Jill Sobule, Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer, Emma's Revolution, John Kadlecik, Billy Bragg, John McCutcheon, Si Kahn, and with the punk band, the Dropkick Murphys. Joe has also performed at all of Washington, DC's finest venues, including Gypsy Sally's, the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage, The Birchmere, Strathmore Music Hall, IOTA Club, Jammin' Java, the Hamilton, Howard Theater, the Black Cat, and more. Joe has also played NYC's Knitting Factory, Starlight Ballroom, The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Bally's in Las Vegas, among other fine venues. http://joeuehlein.com/

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with singer/songwriter Shawn Colvin, who performs live tonight at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. They spoke in 2017 when she performed at the Kennedy Center Spring Gala tribute to John Lennon, taking a deep dive into her Grammy-winning hit song "Sunny Came Home."

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Grammy-winning country music legend Tanya Tucker to mark today's 50th anniversary of her iconic song "Delta Down," which was released on April 10, 1972. They spoke in 2016 when Tucker played The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with "Finally" dance musician CeCe Peniston, who performs live tonight at City Winery in Washington D.C. They spoke in 2016 when she performed at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia.

Birchmere's founder and operator Gary Oelze chats with Katy Daley about the 55 year history of the Birchmere and the new book co-authored by Gary Oelze and Stephen Moore

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Michael and Kevin Bacon as their band The Bacon Brothers play Rams Head in Annapolis, Maryland on April 6-8 and The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on April 11-12. They discuss growing up in Philadelphia and do a rapid-fire Q&A through Kevin's most famous movie roles.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with late country star Hal Ketchum, who released his hit song "Past the Point of Rescue" 30 years ago this weekend. They spoke five years before his death when he played The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia in 2015, discussing his biggest hits like "Small Town Saturday Night," as well as movie appearances in "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Maverick."

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Marc Cohn, who performs live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Feb. 2. They discussed Cohn's breakthrough hit "Walking in Memphis," as well as his other underrated albums that paint his full life story, from losing his parents at a young age to being shot in the head during a carjacking incident in 2005.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with country music legend Ricky Skaggs, who performs at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia for two nights this weekend. They spoke in 2015 when he performed at The Birchmere with Ry Cooder and wife Sharon White, discussing his humble beginnings with Bill Monroe and Flatt & Scruggs to eventually becoming CMA Entertainer of the Year in 1985.

September 29, 2021: Whirling fiercely in the wake of wildfires, fear-induced headlines and a pandemic in its path was the too-real tornado that struck Nashville in March 2020. Admittedly shaken up by the storm, Folk-Americana singer/songwriter Calista Garcia snapped out of fear by turning to music… specifically, “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson. As howling winds have continued over the past year, Calista has kept her calm by tapping back into this feeling through renewed awareness of the beauty that remains. On nature walks by her house, for example, she has come to notice how the canopies of leaves wave hello as she walks by; it is from this tender place, she has created a musical world to reflect what she has witnessed. Lending her lyrics now to listeners, Calista Garcia's “A Beautiful World” EP, out October 29th, 2021, provides refuge through the power of rose-colored perspective. “I created ‘A Beautiful World' to be an expression of radical optimism,” Calista shares. “Optimism, not because life is full of sunshine and rainbows, but rather in spite of how tough it can be... I think holding knowledge of the bad and still believing good can prevail is the bravest thing we can do.” As she has accessed hope through songwriting, Calista has found herself writing the EP in solitude from safe places like the park benches nearby, her piano and the floor of her bedroom. Notably, the only co-write on the EP, “After You're Gone,” came from a Zoom collaboration with Rachel Weisbart and Patrick Oberstaedt of the Gender Gnomes; speaking to the loss of family members during the pandemic, this song has already moved listeners to tears including composer/lyricist Andrew Lippa. Produced by Buddy Speir and Calista Garcia at 38 North Studio, “A Beautiful World” was engineered by Sean Russell (Damien & Stephen Marley, Allison Krauss, Bruno Mars), mixed by Grammy Award Winner Jim Scott of Plyrz Studios (The Rolling Stones, Tom Petty, Sting, Foo Fighters) and mastered by Grammy Award Winner Richard Dodd (Dixie Chicks, Tom Petty, Boz Scaggs). Featured musicians include Calista Garcia (vocals, acoustic, electric and resonator guitar, harmonica, Wirlitzer electric piano), Buddy Speir (acoustic & electric guitar, Wurliter electric piano, percussion), Harrison Finks (Hammond B3 organ, piano), Eric Scott (bass, backing vocals), Ben Tufts (drums, percussion), Denise Garcia (backing vocals) and Jim Scott (percussion). Without question, Calista Garcia's fiercely-hopeful disposition has continued to propel her music career forward. In spite of its challenges, 2021 has managed to be a hallmark year as Calista was recently nominated Chris Austin Songwriting Finalist at MerleFest, playing a summer of live shows alongside Bad Cameo and as a part of Show X's tour with The Last Real Circus. Previous releases include her critically-acclaimed debut EP “Wild Woman” (2019) which was selected in the 2020 Independent Music Awards for “Best Roots/Country EP,” recognized by the International Music Awards (IAMA), International Songwriting Competition (ISC) and the Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (MASC). In addition, Calista Garcia's extensive musical history includes her title as 2020's National YoungArts Gold Winner in Voice/Singer-Songwriter, 2021 Alicia Key's She is the Music Foundation Songwriting Fellow, 2020 Johnny Mercer Songwriting Project Fellow, 2017-18 Berklee Performance Showcase Winner, 2017 Bernard Ebbs Young Songwriter of the Year and two-time Grammy Foundation Young Songwriter Program Artist. As Calista continues to shine light onstage, tour plans continue with an upcoming show at The Birchmere alongside the renowned Rick Wakeman of “Yes” on October 24th, 2021. In Calista's words, “My greatest wish is that this song helps you as a listener let go of your fears, and feel a little freer from your hangups. This really is a beautiful world we get to live in.” -https://www.themarketingmixtape.com/pressrelease-abeautifulworld --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/loveletterstovirginia/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/loveletterstovirginia/support

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with keyboardist Jeff Kazee of Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, which performs tonight at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. They spoke in 2015 for the Rock & Roll for Children benefit concert in Bethesda, Maryland. He also describes playing for Bon Jovi's band.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with comedian Paula Poundstone, who performs at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia this weekend. You'll also hear two throwback conversations from the 2020 and 2016 elections, providing fascinating time capsules of our political and pandemic life.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with country hitmaker Brandy Clark, who performs at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Wednesday. They spoke last December about her virtual holiday show "Christmas From Here, There and Everywhere," as well as her Grammy-nominated album "Your Life is a Record" and all of the hits she wrote for other artists, from "Follow Your Arrow" to "Mama's Broken Heart."

WTOP Entertainment Editor Jason Fraley chats with Peter Noone of Herman's Hermits, who perform live at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia tomorrow night. They discuss the band's pioneering role in the British Invasion, including hits like “I'm Into Something Good” and “I'm Henry VIII, I Am.”

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Judy Collins, who performs tonight at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. They spoke earlier this year when Collins hit Wolf Trap to recreate her first solo concert at New York City's Town Hall in 1964. They also discussed her biggest hits from "Both Sides Now" to "Send in the Clowns."

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with country star Phil Vassar, who performs this Sunday at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. They spoke in 2016 about writing hit songs for Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney and Alan Jackson before becoming a star himself with songs like "Just Another Day in Paradise."

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting, who plays The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Sunday night. They spoke about him creating hits like "Superman" and "100 Years," as well as his hockey fandom. He even predicted that Alex Ovechkin would eventually get his Stanley Cup.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with gospel-pop star Amy Grant about her concert at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia this coming Monday. They also discuss the new gospel music documentary "The Jesus Music" in theaters Oct. 1.

The brilliant singer-songwriter, Megon McDonough, has been performing around the United States for more than four decades, on stages as varied as Carnegie Hall, The Birchmere, Wolf Trap and more. Megon wrote her first song at age 11 and landed her first record deal by the time she was 14 after winning a local “Big […]The post Megon McDonough, Singer-Songwriter-Episode #178 appeared first on Storybeat with Steve Cuden.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with jazz great Dave Koz, who performs Thursday night at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. They spoke about his Grammy-nominated jazz career, as well as his approach to interviewing other musicians on his popular syndicated radio show that he's hosted since 1994.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Three Dog Night founder and lead singer Danny Hutton, who brings his classic rock band to The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Saturday night. Hutton discusses moving from Boston to Hollywood before creating the band's biggest hits, from “Mama Told Me (Not to Come)” to "Joy to the World."

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Pure Prairie League member Michael Reilly ahead of the band's show tomorrow night at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. They discuss creating the band name, recording hit songs like "Amie" and discovering future country star Vince Gill.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Grammy-winning country star Kathy Mattea, who plays The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Friday night. They discussed her biggest hits from "Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses" to "Where've You Been," written by her husband as a true story about his grandmother's last words.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Men at Work founder Colin Hay, who performs Tuesday and Wednesday nights at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. Hay discusses growing up in Scotland, moving to Australia and penning massive '80s hits like "Who Can It Be Now?" and "Down Under."

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley celebrates Major League Baseball's inaugural "Field of Dreams" game tonight by discussing the iconic movie with Kevin Costner, who brought his band Modern West to The Birchmere in 2016. They discuss the importance of dreaming like Ray Kinsella, as well as memories of “Bull Durham" and "Dances with Wolves."

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with R&B group En Vogue, which plays The Birchmere tonight in Alexandria, Virginia. Co-founders Terry Ellis and Cindy Herron discuss the group's rise to success, from "Free Your Mind" to "Don't Let Go," while newest member Rhona Bennett shares how they welcomed her with open arms.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Ann Wilson of Heart, who rocks The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia on Saturday night. They discuss Heart's biggest hits, from "Crazy On You" to "Barracuda," as well as the band's amazing tribute to Led Zeppelin at the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors.

WTOP Entertainment Reporter Jason Fraley chats with Air Supply co-founder Graham Russell as the band plays The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia this Friday. They discuss the Australian duo's biggest hits from "All Out of Love" to "Making Love Out of Nothing At All."

The boys take a road trip to The Birchmere to meet Sam Grow in his green room and get sloshed before his show. 

Let's meet an innovative poet, Andrew L. Boyd, straight out of London, England who discusses his new book of poems, “Birchmere.” Also, Parrish “P-Dubb” Williams, host of the Anchor FM/Spotify podcast, “It's Like That” is back for more as EP Michael Wamble and I continue to celebrate Black Music Month.

WTOP Entertainment Editor Jason Fraley chats with country music legend Wynonna Judd, who rocks The Birchmere on Wednesday for the first time since the pandemic. How did she and other musicians keep a creative spark during this past year of quarantine?

Happy Thursday everyone.  It’s a beautiful crisp day here in DC, but up in the northeast… It is a complete shitshow!  Glad to be here getting ready for my shows at the Birchmere in Alexandria tonight and tomorrow, but boy was that a tough drive yesterday.  Today on the episode I tell a couple of stories of tough gig commutes and talk a little bit about some things that are coming up! Stay safe out there and enjoy the episode!   Tickets for Carbon Leaf’s upcoming livestreams!!! https://carbonleaf.bubbleup.live   Over The Hump Holiday Livestream with Jesse Humphrey Facebook.com/jessehumphrey Wednesday night at 8pm ET.   Support the podcast!   The Merch store is live!!  Go to jessehumphrey.com and click the merch button on the homepage! NEW “OVER THE HUMP” MERCH!!    www.patreon.com/afterthegig   Email the podcast! afterthegigpod@gmail.com   Music from this weeks show:   Outro: “Really Love” by D’Angelo and the Vanguard    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jhumphreymusic/ https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig @jhumphreymusic  #ontourwithjhumps

EITM interviews Chris Daughtry

Michael Jaworek has been a concert promoter for over 40 years. His activities are focused in the Washington DC and Baltimore markets, where he is Vice President of the Birchmere - Todd has performed there numerous times. Michael has been nominated many times as “Nightclub Talent Buyer of the Year” by Pollstar Magazine. He is also a co-founder of the Washington Area Music Awards and has been a NARAS member & served on the Washington DC Board of Governors for philanthropy of NARAS. In 2013, Michael received the International Talent Buyers Association “Club Buyer of the Year” Award.

Yes lead vocalist Jon Anderson talks with Lisa about his latest solo album, his upcoming show at the Birchmere, and the possibility of reuniting with the other members of Yes for a tour next year!

Episode #255.  DC based musician Justin Trawick is back from his hiatus with a new episode of The Circus Life, this time recorded live from his car while on the way to a show in Annapolis, MD.  He talks about his big annual 930 Club show in DC coming up on July 27th as well as The 9 Songwriter Series 10th Anniversary Show at the Birchmere on August 9th.  Justin also talks cutting off your fingers, dogs, and befriending Senator Tim Kaine.  For more info on Justin go to JustinTrawick.com and listen to all episodes of The Circus Life at TheCircusLife.com.

Honestly, I can't remember what we talked about because I had dragon flu. But we were in DC. And doing a show. And some other things happened. Also, I have no idea how all these different iTunes things work. So someone who knows about podcasts should probably email jade@piffthemagicdragon.com and tell her how these podcasts work and the best way to upload them and all that stuff. Also, I should definitely start writing this bit immediately after we record the podcast then save it as a draft. That way I'll remember what we talked about on the podcast rather than trying to write it a week later like I'm doing now when I've forgotten what we yapped on.

Fintech startup YayPay just raised another $8.4 million for its software-as-a-service solution focused on collecting money from outstanding invoices. The company participated in TechCrunch's Startup Battlefield several years ago. Information Venture Partners led today's funding round with existing investors Birchmere, QED, Fifth Third Capital, Gaingels and 500 Fintech Fund also participating. YayPay targets large companies with an accounting department.

EITM interviews Nils Lofgren

Ben lives in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, located on the site of a 3000 year old Indian village. He creates his songs, art, and stories on sacred land, and feels the passage of those who came before him in the stone tools, jasper arrowheads, and clay pottery slipping down the river banks. When he’s not performing, Ben is at home enjoying his proudest works of all – his two sons. He wishes them well on their journeys into adulthood. Ben released his fourth CD, “Flesh and Bone,” on February 7, 2018. The album features Steuart Smith from The Eagles, as well as Steve Van Dam and Nate Brown of the band, Everything (with hit single, “Hooch”). “Flesh and Bone” displays Ben’s artwork and lyrics in a 16-page booklet, which comes with the CD. “Flesh and Bone” is all we have to travel through the mistakes and triumphs that make us who we are. Ben has been a performing musician in the DC area since the 70′s. He’s played at the Birchmere, Jiffy Lube Live, the old Cellar Door, Blues Alley, the Bayou, the Kennedy Center, the Baltimore Civic Center and all the venues in between. He was on Lifesong Records { Jim Croce}, RCA Sunberry/ Dunbar, was signed to Nashville’s Cedarwood Publishing as a writer, has appeared as a musical guest on the Today Show, written 2 nationally aired filmscores for NBC television documentarys, was the Grand Prize winner in the 10th Annual Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest, has appeared on over 100 albums and been involved in too many inane jingles, appeared as the opening act or recorded with Foreigner, Styx, Don Felder, Steve Laurie of the Hollies, the Dillards, Poco, Rick Derringer, Steuart Smith of the Eagles, Bo Diddly, Dave Mason and John Cougar Mellencamp. His first album, “River Deep In Me ” was produced by John Jennings, who also produced Mary Chapin Carpenter. Ben opened for Billy Ray Cyrus in Washington, DC before 80,000 people for Rolling Thunder, and he returned to their stage again in 2015 and 2016, where crowds of 40,000 people gather at the Lincoln Memorial. He released two other solo albums, “48 States of Love” and “Loveland” which include songs which are featured in the film “Recludere” and on MSNBC’s show “Juvies”. Disney recently licensed his song “Every One of Us” from “Loveland”. He is signed to a publisher in LA who works exclusively in television and film, and was the force behind CBS music for 12 years. Ben plays piano and sings songs he’s written about his life and the world around him. He is also a mixed media constructionist, and is about to release his first novel, “Big Boy Movers, Sex, Trucks, and Rock and Roll” about his life as the owner of a rock and roll moving company. His web sites are www.benmasonexperience.com and www.benmasonsongs.com

Key Terms CAC - Customer acquisition cost LTV - Lifetime Value ARR - Annual Recurring Revenue MRR - Monthly Recurring Revenue Churn Rate - % of customers that stop paying for your product/service   Ned is one of two founding partners at Birchmere Ventures, which is primarily focused on seed SaaS and marketplace investments. He led Birchmere’s investment in Cvent and served on its board for 11 years.   His other notable investments include TenMarks (acquired by Amazon), Neolinear (acquired by Cadence Design Systems), Peloton Technologies, Presence Learning, Identified Technologies, Modsy, Gem, Gradeslam, Mapper.ai, Ikos, SubCentral, OneKloud, Sleeperbot, and Treatspace.   We cover the 101 of venture capital and how the Pittsburgh startup ecosystem has evolved. Watch the behind-the-scenes on Piper Creative’s vlog.   Never miss one of our best episodes by subscribing to the newsletter.   Ned’s Challenge; Run personal experiments like intermittent fasting.   Connect with Ned LinkedIn Twitter Website ned@birchmerevc.com   If you liked this interview, check out episode 85 with Sean Ammirati where we discuss the science of growth and why Facebook beat Friendster. Subscribe on iTunes | Stitcher | Overcast | PodBay

Sean Ammirati joined Birchmere Ventures in 2012 to as the partner leading Birchmere Labs, a seed and studio fund focused on community driven commerce start-ups. Prior to that, he had over 12 years founding, building and selling businesses in the media and software industries. Sean was previously Chief Operating Officer of ReadWriteWeb, one of the most influential sites about the future of technology and innovation. In December 2011, the company was acquired by SAY Media to strengthen its technology channel. Sean was previously co-founder and CEO of mSpoke, which was the first acquisition of LinkedIn.   Sean is currently an Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at Carnegie Mellon University. He also was a founding advisor to Innovation Works’ AlphaLab accelerator. He holds a B.S. in computer information systems from Grove City College and was a research fellow at Carnegie Mellon’s Sloan Software Industry Center.   Check out his new book about how lean startups can find growth; The Science of Growth: How Facebook Beat Friendster--and How Nine Other Startups Left the Rest in the Dust   Sean’s Challenge; We need to do a better job conditioning ourselves to understand that failure is not as scary as we tend to think it is.   Connect with Sean Twitter LinkedIn Website   If you liked this interview, check out episode 16 with Zach Malone where we discuss raising venture capital and the Pittsburgh startups scene.

Michael Jaworek has been a concert promoter for over 40 years. His activities are focused in the Washington DC and Baltimore markets, where he is Vice President of the Birchmere. (The legendary club just celebrated its 50th anniversary). Michael has been nominated many times as “Nightclub Talent Buyer of the Year” by Pollstar Magazine. He is also a co-founder of the Washington Area Music Awards and has been a NARAS member & served on the Washington DC Board of Governors for philanthropy of NARAS. In 2013, Michael received the International Talent Buyers Association “Club Buyer of the Year” Award.

Aug. 20, 2014. Concert by the Quebe Sisters Band, composed of Grace, Sophia and Hulda Quebe (pronounced Kway-bee), who all sing and play the fiddle, and the Clark twins, Penny Lea (guitar and mandolin) and Katy Lou (banjo, piano and accordion). They perform a refreshing blend of Texas-style fiddling, vintage country, bluegrass and jazz and swing standards. Speaker Biography: The Quebe Sisters Band has been awarded the Crescendo Award by the Western Music Association and the Western Swing Album of the Year from the Academy of Western Artists. They have appeared at the Grand Ole Opry, the Kennedy Center, NYC's Lincoln Center, the Ryman Auditorium, the Marty Stuart Show, the Eddie Stubbs Show on WSM, the Birchmere, the Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree (as host band), the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, multiple European tours and the National Folk Festival. They have appeared in concert with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, Merle Haggard, Asleep at the Wheel, Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, Riders in the Sky, and Marty Stuart. For transcript, captions, and more information, visit http://www.loc.gov/today/cyberlc/feature_wdesc.php?rec=6536