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Judy Blume is one of the most beloved and influential authors of the last century, whose books, including Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret., Forever, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing and Summer Sisters, have helped generations of readers navigate growing up. In this conversation from May 2025, Blume sits down with Jenna at Books & Books in Key West, the nonprofit independent bookstore she co-founded, to reflect on a career that spans 29 books, more than 92 million copies sold and translations in 40 languages. Plus, she opens up about her creative process, her connection to readers and the legacy she continues to build. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does it really take to go from writing rooms to a record deal without losing the soul of your songs? We sit down with country artist and songwriter Mary Kutter to map the turns: small-town Kentucky roots, Nashville writers' rounds, pandemic Zoom sessions, and the quiet shift from penning hits for others to owning the mic herself. Along the way, Mary pulls back the curtain on the cuts that changed her life, Bailey Zimmerman's Never Leave and These Nights, Nate Smith's Wreckage and Sleep, and why leaning into unvarnished, lived detail can turn a song into a lifeline for strangers.Mary talks about logging 452 sessions in a year, why volume builds instinct, and how posting Devil's Money cracked open an audience for her own stories. She shares the exact moment the record deal offer landed, what felt surreal about the announcement photo, and how she keeps perspective in a town overflowing with talent. The conversation also honors an unsung giant: Hall of Fame songwriter Kim Williams, whose generosity and introductions helped set her trajectory. His story, blue-collar grit, unthinkable recovery, and a fateful coffee with Garth Brooks, becomes a blueprint for creative courage and quiet mentorship.If you care about songwriting craft, country music history, or the long game behind so-called overnight success, you'll find practical takeaways: write more than you think you can, tell the truth even when it's heavy, build community by hosting and showing up, and let kindness compound. Press play, then share this with a friend who needs a nudge to keep going. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us which song or moment hit you hardest, we're listening.Episode LinksMary Kutter: https://marykutter.com/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Ever wonder why certain songs follow you from ballparks to bar bands to late-night TV finales? We take a playful but pointed run at the “most overplayed song” ever with a live listener bracket that pits Free Bird, Don't Stop Believin', Sweet Caroline, Brown Eyed Girl, and more in a ruthless showdown. Along the way, we unpack what repetition really means, how stadium anthems, wedding playlists, and radio gold become rituals that comfort some of us and exhaust the rest. You'll leave with your hill to die on and a few hot takes from fellow fans to test your case.Before the sparks fly, we open with a rapid-fire look at Ella Langley, state champion dancer, voice-shifting surgery, a pellet gun for pests, bangs born from a bad haircut, and a one-pickle pre-show ritual that weirdly works. That personal color tees up a high-energy country news sweep: Lainey Wilson teams with Kevin Costner on The Grey House soundtrack beside titans like Willie Nelson and Shania Twain; Riley Green stretches into acting with a Yellowstone-adjacent series; Rascal Flatts hit RodeoHouston; Meghan Moroney and Ella Langley notch a chart milestone for women in country; Thomas Rhett welcomes baby number five; Luke Combs and Dierks Bentley map new tours; and LeAnn Rimes and Rodney Crowell drop fresh tracks. We also spotlight the Recording Academy's new Best Traditional Country Album category debuting in 2026—an overdue nod to classic songwriting and instrumentation.We round things out with a tight chart countdown spanning radio favorites and indie gems, a March 2016 flashback that tracks how we got here, and a lively mailbag: production vs. songwriting first impressions, dream guests (from Rick Beato to Mutt Lange and Kelly Clarkson), and the gear that changed everything as studios moved from tape to Pro Tools. It's a full-spectrum listen for country fans, music nerds, and anyone who has ever yelled “Free Bird!” at the wrong time.Episode LinksBob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

What happens when you feel too rock for country and too country for rock? We put that identity to the test with a rapid-fire breakdown of 35 tracks that blur the lines, from Hardy and The Cadillac Three to CCR, Eric Church, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. We wrestle with what truly makes a crossover—songwriting grit, backbeat, guitar tone, or that undeniable chorus—and call out the picks that earned their place, plus a few that surprised us.Then we hit the headlines shaping the scene. Jason Aldean announces a 2026 Songs About Us Summer Tour and drops fresh tracks. CMA Fest lines up rising voices like Ella Langley and Shaboozey, while big festivals keep the season packed from Panama City Beach to Florida's Gulf Coast. Kane Brown builds a four-story Broadway hub, and Dolly Parton tips her hat to Son of Jolene, proving legacies grow when new artists answer the canon. A Ronnie Milsap tribute reminds us why the Opry remains a North Star.We open the floor to you with a walk-up song throwdown—Jukebox Hero to Tom Sawyer, the Rocky theme to One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer—and share our own entrance anthems. Expect a practical mini-masterclass on intros, tempo, and how to build energy before a first lyric. Charts get their due as we compare mainstream risers and indie breakthroughs, showing why a sticky hook can outlast any hype cycle.The mailbag pulls no punches: are record deals still worth it for mid-level artists, is radio failing because it won't take risks, and what gets more valuable as AI music improves? We make a strong case for live performance, brand voice, and community as the true moat. We also talk long game—the “ten-year town” reality—and how to measure progress without losing heart.If you're chasing better playlists, smarter career moves, or just need a gateway between steel strings and power chords, this one's for you. Subscribe, share with a friend, and drop your walk-up song in the comments—what track announces you to the world?Episode LinksDalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

The chorus hits like a switch. One minute you're nodding to a groove; the next you're shouting Slam Bam with a room full of strangers who suddenly feel like a band. We sat down with country recording artist Chaz Collins to unpack how a southern rock tune from the late 90s became a modern country rock anthem people can own from the first pass.Chaz takes us inside the rewrite, how a handful of lyric tweaks turned a great song into his story, and explains the melodic choices that invite instant recognition, including a sly nod to Angel Is A Centerfold. Then we head into Nashville with producer-drummer Tommy Harden. Picture top-tier session players scribbling charts, hearing a demo once, and delivering first takes that feel like the record. Chaz breaks down why they tracked live for chemistry, how ear fatigue shapes vocal sessions, and where to feature steel or fiddle so the hook lands with muscle and heart.We also trace the arc from hair metal roots to country edge, the influence of Garth Brooks and Tim McGraw on storytelling, and the reality of modern independence: a Virgin Music distribution deal that preserves creative control, global digital reach, and zero cuts from live shows. On the horizon, there's a bold swing, talks with the NBA for halftime performances of No Place I'd Rather Be, a unifying anthem co-written with Byron Hill that aims to light up arenas and bring people together.Along the way, Chaz shares road stories from thousands of shows across 43 states, the thrill of testing Slam Bam live and hearing it shouted back, and the gratitude that fuels the grind, his wife's all-in marketing and his drummer's behind-the-scenes hustle during a family health fight. It's a blueprint for making country that hits: write for truth, track for feel, produce with intention, and take it to the people.If the episode moved you, tap follow, share it with a friend who loves big choruses and bigger crowds, and leave a review to help more listeners find the show. Then tell us: what lyric made you hit repeat?Episode LinksChas Collins: https://www.chascollins.com/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Ever argued over what makes a voice truly unique? We go all-in on that question and discover why “unmistakable” beats “perfect” almost every time. From Cher and Sinatra to Tom Waits, Stevie Nicks, and Bob Dylan, we debate tone, phrasing, range, and the magic test: can you spot them in one note?We kick off with a left-field warm-up on Texas Roadhouse—founder geography, 34-degree cutting rooms, 36-degree beer, fresh-daily bread, and how grassroots roll drops double as smart local marketing. Then it's a tight country news sweep: Ella Langley's triple-chart moment, Jason Aldean's milestone perspective against legacy greats, the Country Music Hall of Fame's American Currents signal, the Braves Country Fest lineup, new drops from Luke Combs to Charlie Crockett, a classic country tour package, and a Lee Brice single stirring up “country nowadays” debate. The throughline is clear: country's center is widening and listeners are picking winners across lanes.Our chart check balances mainstream and indie, spotlighting why a hold at number three means something different than a quick climb to one, and how pop-country crossovers, storytelling, and rock edges share the same field. Then a rapid-fire trivia duel (rock and country) transforms fun facts into a map of genre evolution—Zeppelin's first name, Master of Puppets in 1986, who ripped the Beat It solo, Opry induction stats, Chris Gaines, and more.The mailbag brings the sharpest industry insights. Can an artist be “outlaw” with label money? What's smarter today: 20-track albums or a disciplined singles drip? Is vinyl a real revenue lane or a nostalgia-forward merch play? Who owns the masters when singers go solo—and what can they do about it? We unpack strategy, contracts, and fan behavior without the fluff.Episode LinksVonray: https://jayfranze.com/episode1/Jason Hale: https://jayfranze.com/episode55/Kyle Fields: https://jayfranze.com/episode79/Lucy Becker: https://jayfranze.com/episode86/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

What makes a halftime show unforgettable: fireworks or feeling? We put country's biggest names under the stadium lights and ask who can truly command 12 minutes seen by the world. From Carrie Underwood's precision to Garth Brooks's jet-fueled stagecraft, Dolly Parton's sparkle to Taylor Swift's era-spanning spectacle, we break down who has the catalog, pacing, and production sense to turn a giant field into a living music video without losing the heartbeat of live performance.We also dig into a wild Super Bowl weekend of music: Brandi Carlile's goosebump take on America the Beautiful, the All-American alternative halftime stacked with country heavyweights, and the ongoing tug-of-war between lip sync polish and live grit. Then there's Kid Rock hinting at a “Robert Ritchie” narrative pivot and a cross-genre tour that could pull fresh ears into country's orbit. Add festival news, a wave of new releases from Eric Church, Carter Faith, and Koe Wetzel, and Cody Johnson teasing collaborations with Luke Combs and Brothers Osborne, and you've got a snapshot of where country is leaning next.Our listener question spins into a masterclass on reinvention: Bruce Dickinson, Brian Johnson, and Sammy Hagar all lifted their bands by changing the center of gravity. The takeaway for artists is simple and hard—evolve without losing soul. We cap it off with chart rundowns, indie gems, and real talk on artist development, time triage, and why most “opportunities” only matter if they move the craft forward.Hit play, argue with our halftime picks, and tell us who you'd book for the big game. If this episode got you thinking, follow, share with a friend, and leave a quick review—your note helps more music lovers find the show.Episode LinksBob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/Kate Stanton: https://jayfranze.com/episode83/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/John Mason: https://jayfranze.com/episode191/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Think the Grammys always reward the biggest voices? We put that idea on trial. From Luke Combs and Blake Shelton to Eric Church and Martina McBride, we map the stunning list of country heavyweights with multiple nominations and zero wins—and ask what those numbers really say about merit, timing, and taste. Then we widen the lens: Jelly Roll's breakout sweep, Zac Top's historic Traditional Country win, and how a single new category can rewrite a career's story overnight.We keep the momentum with a packed news slate: Lainey Wilson's cryptic “Can't Sit Still” teasers and possible Netflix tie‑in, Hardy's cinematic multi‑generational collab featuring Tim McGraw, Eric Church, and Morgan Wallen, Tim McGraw's Pawn Shop Guitar tour routing through Fenway Park, and The Voice's two‑hour season launch after the Winter Games. Along the way, we talk performance versus polish, the role of auto‑tune in modern crossovers, and why some artists soar on stage even if the trophies never land.Our community brings the heat with the Question of the Day: name an artist who left a famous band and built a real solo legacy. From Michael Jackson, Phil Collins, Stevie Nicks, and Peter Gabriel to Darius Rucker and Peter Cetera, your picks fuel a rapid-fire tour through rock, country, pop, and beyond. We balance it with a transparent look at the business: do labels still help, or are they just advances with branding? Is touring truly profitable for rising acts in vans and trailers? And how do indie artists build durability when playlist spikes fade?We round it out with a sharp chart rundown—main and indie—plus a 2006 flashback to Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, Sugarland, Miranda Lambert, and George Strait, showing how yesterday's storytelling still shapes today's sound. If you love country music, industry strategy, and a lively back-and-forth that doesn't hedge, this one's for you.Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review with your pick for the greatest solo career after a famous band—we'll feature favorites next week.Episode LinksTom Harding: https://jayfranze.com/episode30/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

What really powers a legendary music career: luck or preparation? We sit down with an entertainment attorney whose five-decade journey runs from backstage nerves with a young Olivia Newton-John to helicopter clauses for Kenny Rogers, quiet rebuilding with Reba after tragedy, and complicated exits that still end in respect. Along the way he shows how trust-first relationships turn into durable deals, why the best counsel plans five to ten years ahead, and how to spot the moment when a flashy offer serves commissions over careers.The stories move fast and cut deep. You'll hear about staging leverage to win real contract value, navigating the delicate artist–manager–lawyer triangle, and drawing bright lines when a manager's incentives collide with an artist's future. We break down how legacy contracts still drag around breakage and packaging deductions, then collide with today's internet uploads, streaming statements, and AI clones. He shares practical steps for protecting catalogs, from constant monitoring to decisive takedowns, and explains the gray zone no one foresaw: when an AI “new” master touches an old deal.What stands out most is the humanity: 50 years of brother-sister rapport with Olivia, chameleon genius and honest breakups around Quincy Jones, and the steady hands who kept doors open—Conway Twitty, Jimmy Bowen, and others who believed before the ink dried. If you care about how artists actually build a life in music—contracts that age well, teams that align incentives, and careers that sustain both stage and family—this conversation is a field guide wrapped in unforgettable moments.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more listeners can find it. Got a question for a future episode or a story of your own? Send it our way at jfranzy.com and join the conversation.Episode LinksJohn Mason: https://www.johnmasonlaw.com/Crazy Lucky: https://www.johnmasonlaw.com/crazy-lucky-the-bookBob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Two truths can coexist in country music: rebellion built the house, and strategy keeps the lights on. We kick off with the spirit of outlaw country—not noise for its own sake, but independence from industry molds—then map how that 70s ethos shows up today. From Waylon and Willie to modern names making savvy moves, we explore what “outlaw” means when radio is crowded, playlists pay pennies, and authenticity has to outlast trends.We also dive into hot headlines shaping the scene. Carrie Underwood hits pause on touring without an album cycle, George Strait goes intimate with in-the-round shows in Austin, and Laney Wilson's new Netflix doc promises a closer look at her rise. Alongside the news, we unpack chart momentum, indie standouts, and why some songs land hard when they close with a line that lingers. It's all connected: the brand you build, the rooms you play, and how you keep fans close enough to feel it.The mailbag brings the heat with smart questions. Are playlists more important than radio? Short answer: both matter—playlists help with discovery and micro income, radio still confers status and community. Are showcases worth it? Absolutely, because decision-makers want to feel your live energy. How do you avoid burnout? Schedule joy and protect the parts of the work that make you come alive. We also shout out the unsung roles—engineers, managers, A&R—who carry artists farther than most realize. Episode LinksScotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Bob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/Bruce Reiter: https://jayfranze.com/episode67/Avery Glenn Crabtree: https://jayfranze.com/episode77/Mike Skill: https://jayfranze.com/episode78/Bruce Tarletsky: https://jayfranze.com/episode81/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

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What if the songs that still feel new are actually twenty years old? We kick off with a nostalgia gut-punch as Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, early Taylor Swift, and more hit the 20-year mark—then use that time warp to ask what truly lasts in music. From there, we swing into a high-energy news sweep: Zach Brown's album debuting at No.1 across all genres, Ella Langley's record-setting run on UK country airplay, leadership changes at the CMA, and a wave of new releases that balance story-first songwriting with cinematic promos.The heart of the show is a listener-fueled 80s showdown. Names fly—George Strait, Reba, Randy Travis, Journey, Queen, U2, Depeche Mode—and we unpack why Michael Jackson's studio innovation, Quincy Jones' production, and Toto's session muscle still shape how pop and rock are made. Along the way, we break down what makes today's country hooks stick, from Ella Langley's vocal scoops to Riley Green's easy swing, and count down the current charts with sharp, no-fluff commentary on what's climbing and why.We also open the hood on career arcs. Our “Where Are They Now?” segment revisits Gretchen Wilson, Easton Corbin, The Band Perry, and others to reveal how radio trends, label friction, burnout, and smart pivots steer longevity. The mailbag gets practical: labels act like banks and networks; independence is freedom plus workload; inputs beat vanity metrics. Measure what you control—releases, gigs, writing sessions—and let the audience decide what endures. Stick around to hear about our Podfest weekend, meet a few friends of the show, and grab a handful of behind-the-scenes gems that keep the community tight.Episode LinksVaughn Rhea: https://jayfranze.com/episode1/Garrett Landers: https://jayfranze.com/episode66/Avery Glenn Crabtree: https://jayfranze.com/episode77/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Stephanie Rabus: https://jayfranze.com/episode149/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

On today's episode of Hilary Topper on Air, I talk with Darren Lancaster, CEO and co-founder of GOSleeves.com. His game-changing technology is for anyone active, from elite to weekend warriors. GOSleeves have merged compression sleeves with the science of kinesiology taping to create a unique product line that really works.  Full disclosure, I met the team about two years ago at The Running Event. At that time, they provided me with a free sample. It took months for me to open the package. Once I did, I did not stop. Every time you see me running or cycling, I am wearing GOSleeves, and I swear by them.  Here are the questions I asked Darren: How are GOSleeves different than other compression sleeves? How does the kinesiology strip actually work? How do they help in the recovery process? What other products do you have in your line? How does wearing GOSleeves help athletes perform more confidently and achieve their goals? GOSleeves Sponsors South Florida Book Tour GOSleeves is sponsoring my South Florida book tour of Unlocking the Triathlon: The Beginner's Guide to Competing in a Triathlon, published by Meyer & Meyer Sport. (I actually wrote about them in the book.) We will be giving away a pair of sleeves at each event, including: February 7, 2026, at 2 p.m., at Barnes & Noble Fort Lauderdale February 8, 2026, at 11 a.m., Books & Books in Coral Gables February 8, 2026, at 3 p.m., at Barnes & Noble in Boca Raton If you would like to try a pair of GOSleeves, here's 20 percent off: gosleeves.com/Hilary. This show was sponsored by The Russo Law Group and PlayTri. 

Power, ownership, and timing decide more careers than any single hook—and this episode shows why. We pull back the curtain on country music's biggest label battles, from unpaid digital royalties to shelved albums and surprise re-releases. Kenny Rogers, Brad Paisley, and the Chicks wrestle with reporting and payouts; Tim McGraw challenges an “unfair” contract and wins; and Garth Brooks redefines royalties with a bold 50-percent deal. Then there's Taylor Swift, turning re-recordings into a masterclass on leverage and fan alignment, and Morgan Wallen calling out reissued early work that tests the ethics of timing and brand control.We keep the pace quick with a news sweep that actually matters: Margo Price aiming for Grammy glory, Jelly Roll judging a Star Search reboot, Zach Bryan's deeply personal wedding tribute, and Garth teasing a tour that will melt ticket sites. We talk duets that blur the line between home and studio, why CRS still sets the tone for country radio and industry strategy, and how authenticity cuts through the noise when new and legacy artists share the same stage.Listeners jump in with their favorite music documentaries and create a watchlist worth saving: Sound City, It Might Get Loud, History of the Eagles, and the ever-quotable Spinal Tap. We fold that into our country chart rundown and indie spotlight, highlighting songs on the rise and the artists betting on craft over hype.Episode LinksScotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Bob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/William Lee Golden: https://jayfranze.com/episode72/John McEuen: https://jayfranze.com/episode85/McBride & The Ride: https://jayfranze.com/episode87/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode1Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

The biggest country hits of 2025 tell a story the charts won't say out loud: radio still gives men the mic. We dig into the top spins, trace the patterns behind programming decisions, and ask whether “audience demand” is real taste or a habit formed by gatekeepers. From Morgan Wallen's multi-track dominance to a rare female breakout, we map how rotation rules, label strategies, and collaboration trends keep certain voices front and center while others fight uphill.We also widen the lens beyond airplay. Miranda Lambert's new unscripted series brings her storytelling grit to TV, proving artists can grow cultural impact even when radio lanes narrow. Bailey Zimmerman's viral generosity toward his mom, Jesse Keith Whitley's hard restart, and the passing of Opry great Stu Phillips remind us why country resonates: real stakes, real lives, and communities that show up. Add in a spirited debate on performance and vocal power—a live bracket spanning Freddie Mercury, Steve Perry, Prince, and Geoff Tate—and we hit the sweet spot where craft and showmanship meet legacy and data. Spoiler: a theatrical rock titan takes the crown.You'll also get a clear explainer on RIAA certifications, a peek into Cody Johnson's authenticity test for outside cuts, quick-hit chart rundowns across country and indie lanes, and a stack of listener questions on A&R, artist development costs, and the manager roles that actually move careers. We keep it candid, practical, and human—equal parts industry intel and fan-heart fuel.If this conversation challenged your assumptions or gave you something worth sharing, tap follow, send it to a friend, and leave a quick review. Tell us: who deserves more spins, and who's your all-time lead singer? Your take might kick off next week's bracket.Episode LinksScotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Bob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/William Lee Golden: https://jayfranze.com/episode72/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Country took some wild turns this year, and we sift through every twist with one big question: what actually deserves the spotlight? We kick off by ranking the top country albums of 2025, weighing the case for Tyler Childers at the summit, poking holes in Morgan Wallen's lower-than-expected slot, and making room for Eric Church, Thomas Rhett, and a few traditional voices that feel older than retro yet strangely fresh. Expect strong opinions, sharper jokes, and a running thread about why some records stick while others burn out fast.The conversation opens up when we tackle the greatest male-female collaboration. Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers ultimately take the crown for chemistry and timeless storytelling, but not without a fight from Conway and Loretta, Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks, and even rock-forward duos like Lizzy Hale and Corey Taylor. That debate draws a line between technique and feeling: perfect vocals are nice, but songs that live in your bones win the replay war. We also break down how live-in-studio recording changes everything—from headphone mixes to “more me” monitor boxes—and why capturing a band in motion often beats the sterile shine of overproduction.Episode LinksTom Harding: https://jayfranze.com/episode30/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

A viral “Top 26 Songs of 2025” list is only the start—we put every pick under the microscope to see what truly earns replay value. From Bailey Zimmerman and Luke Combs to Morgan Wallen's double presence and Laney Wilson's anchor tracks, we dig into the hooks, arrangements, and performances that separate a fleeting hit from a keeper. Expect honest takes, a few friendly disagreements, and a closer look at the production moves—floor tom hits, 70s textures, harmony blends—that make a chorus land.The conversation widens as we ask what makes album art timeless. Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon becomes a benchmark for clarity and concept, while modern country sleeves split between glossy trends and striking, cinematic restraint. We swap community favorites—Genesis, Journey, Led Zeppelin, Kiss, King Crimson—and talk recognizability, narrative, and how a cover can hint at sound before the first note plays. You'll hear why certain designs elevate the music's myth, and where visual nostalgia actually works.News brings heart and history: Willie Nelson and Lukas Nelson competing for Best Traditional Country Album is a rare, moving moment of legacy in real time. Riley Green's back-to-back solo-written No. 1s reset the conversation on authorship, Ella Langley's UK airplay run shows country's global reach, and Laney Wilson stepping into ESPN's Monday Night Football booth underlines how presence travels across mediums.Episode LinksScotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Andy Hull: https://jayfranze.com/episode7/Jim Cristaldi: https://jayfranze.com/episode27/Bob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/William Lee Golden: https://jayfranze.com/episode72/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

What happens when country headlines collide with hard radio data and a lightning-rod debate about replacement singers? We open strong with legacy-name scandals and the messy myths that follow artists, then pivot to why High Road became the most-played track and how Morgan Wallen still blankets the airwaves. From Garth Brooks saluting KISS to arena tours and heartfelt tributes, we trace the lines between genre, showmanship, and what actually moves listeners to hit replay.We get honest about a stat no one likes: only five songs by women cracked country radio's top 50 this year, and most were features. Is that bias, taste, or risk-aversion? We unpack the label incentives, production choices, and fan habits that tilt playlists toward male voices—and where the breakthroughs really happen when women lean into sharper narratives and bolder arrangements. If you're a programmer, artist, or fan who wants more balance, you'll find practical takeaways to nudge the system forward.Then we light the fuse: name a replacement singer better than the original. The board fills with ACDC's Brian Johnson, Journey's Steve Perry, Van Halen's Sammy Hagar, and Queen with Adam Lambert. We separate technical upgrades from cultural fits and show how casting can redefine a band's destiny—just as it can in country.Episode LinksScotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Jim Cristaldi: https://jayfranze.com/episode27/Bob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/William Lee Golden: https://jayfranze.com/episode72/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Eugene Rice: https://jayfranze.com/episode170/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

A list can be a time machine. We kick off by diving into 35 Southern rock songs that didn't just top bar jukeboxes—they built a genre's backbone. Skynyrd, The Allman Brothers, ZZ Top, 38 Special, and more set the rules on groove, grit, and guitar heroics, and we ask the hard question: who shaped the sound versus who reflected it back? That sparks a bigger conversation about authenticity and the future of music as an AI-generated act climbs a country chart. Are we celebrating craft or sidelining it? We draw clear lines—AI is a powerful tool for arrangements, virtual players, and sonic polish, but the human heart should stay at the center for lyrics and lead vocals. Think drum machines and MIDI as useful tools, not replacements. Maybe it's time for new categories—Produced With AI or Best AI-Directed Track—so innovation and integrity can coexist.We also run a listener-fueled bracket to crown the best debut album. Expect fireworks as Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Chris Stapleton, Van Halen, Guns N' Roses, Alanis Morissette, and Boston square off. The final verdict celebrates a debut that fused tone, engineering genius, and melody into a once-in-a-generation statement. Between segments, we spotlight CMA milestones, a nostalgic holiday collab with a modern twist, and a fresh wave of tours worth bookmarking.Your mailbag powers the craft deep dive: the loudness war and why streaming normalization brings back dynamics, how modern records get built across big studios and home rigs, and the most common rookie mistake (spoiler: it's not a bad mic). We make space for strong takes, small details, and the stuff that actually helps artists grow. If you care about songs that breathe, vocals that risk something, and communities that talk back, you'll feel right at home.Episode LinksAI Experiment: https://jayfranze.com/experiment/Scotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Jim Cristaldi: https://jayfranze.com/episode27/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

A left-handed guitar from a beloved grandpa. A band with grit and groove. A songwriter who lets chords decide the weather of a verse. That's the heart of our conversation with Corey Hooker, where Americana isn't a label so much as a living room: folk honesty, rock momentum, and stories that start one way and end somewhere braver.We trace Corey's path from Ohio stages to a decisive leap toward Colorado, a move designed to meet strangers and grow beyond a friends-and-family ceiling. He opens up about the craft behind his catalog—why a melody often leads the way, how a single “keyword” unlocks a chorus, and what happens when an angry draft flips into a sad truth, like in Perfect Family. We also get practical: Taylor versus Martin for stage and studio, the heirloom Austin that breaks writer's block, and how live shows sharpen arrangements faster than any DAW. If you care about songwriting, there's gold here: tight feedback loops with trusted critics, resisting the trap of perfectionism, and using crowd engagement to turn covers into gateways for original songs.The chemistry with the Cadillac Preachers powers much of this trajectory. Their partnership adds rock muscle to Corey's folk roots, landing in a space fans have called fugitive folk rock. That dynamic opened doors at Laurie's Roadhouse—first through a contest win, then with higher-profile slots—and now a direct support date for Mark Chesnutt. It's a blueprint for independent artists: build community, test songs in the wild, and record when the performance lives in muscle memory. Through it all, Corey's gratitude rings clear for the people who keep him grounded: a wife with blunt, loving notes, a mom who never misses a chance to show up, and bandmates who share the load.Hit play for an honest, energetic look at modern Americana, from writing rooms to big stages and the mountain roads in between. If you enjoyed the conversation, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—what song moment stayed with you the most?Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

A live-sung medley that actually left us breathless. That's how Lainey Wilson opened a CMA night that felt tighter, braver, and more fun than it's been in years—and yes, she backed it up with Entertainer of the Year, Album of the Year, and Female Vocalist. We talk about why her solo hosting worked, how she commanded the stage with eight outfit changes, and what her wins say about where country music is heading.We dig into performances that sparked debate, especially Chris Stapleton solo versus his duet with Miranda Lambert—great song, flawless execution, but does it fit either brand? The Red Clay Strays brought harmonies that surprised us with an Arctic Monkeys vibe, raising a bigger question about identity: when southern bands don't claim “country,” yet chart on country formats, is that healthy expansion or a nudge to fit the market? Along the way, we celebrate pros who hold the scene together—Paul Franklin's Musician of the Year nod and a heartfelt tribute to Vince Gill's mentorship and humility.Then we zoom out. Are labels signing too many TikTok artists who can't deliver live? How much do charts really matter now—less for artists, more for songwriters? We compare A-players in the studio to road bands on tour, why some artists are skipping the “Nashville session” model, and how remote recording and AI risk eroding that full-room magic where eight players breathe together. You'll also hear a lively news round-up, a chart countdown, candid listener mailbag on genre blending and economics, and a hilarious community game: ruin a band name by changing one letter. Buns And Roses, anyone?Episode LinksAI Experiment: https://jayfranze.com/experiment/Scotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Jeff King: https://jayfranze.com/episode6/Jim Cristaldi: https://jayfranze.com/episode27/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark BadolaSend us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Awards night pressure meets a changing country music landscape. We break down the CMA slate with honest picks, why Entertainer of the Year is a different beast than Album of the Year, and how a solo-hosting Laney Wilson turned momentum into a movement. From Morgan Wallen's chart gravity to Ella Langley and Megan Moroney's six-nomination surge, we track who's peaking, who's pushing through, and what it takes to make the leap from “new name” to headliner.Beyond the trophies, we dig into what's really shaping the sound: TikTok breakthroughs, streaming playlist economics, live-streamed concerts, and the way synced lyrics and captions change how fans listen. We talk about the rise of crafted online personas, the risk of shorter artist lifespans in a swipe era, and why authenticity still cuts through—especially when artists open up about mental health and sobriety. The conversation stays grounded with a focused review of Ella Langley's “Choosing Texas,” from lyric arc and imagery to the mix decisions, mandolin ear candy, and Miranda Lambert's harmony that gives the hook extra lift.Style gets its due too. We compare onstage looks and what they signal about identity—Laney's western glam, Megan Moroney's color eras, Dolly's timeless sparkle—and how fashion now plays into fan engagement and discoverability. Add a brisk chart rundown, indie gems, and a lively mailbag, and you've got a fast, fun, and thoughtful tour through where country is headed next.Drop your CMA predictions in the comments so we can read them on the next episode.Episode LinksAI Experiment: https://jayfranze.com/experiment/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

This week, Gare, Steph and I all chose one of our own favorite plot devices and recommended books in that vein! This episode definitely has a book for just about everybody!Kate's Books - Books with Dramatic IronyI, MedusaStalkerDark SistersSky Full of ElephantsHappy LandGare's Books - Thrillers with Sex WorkBoom TownReal EasyThese WomenThings We Do in the DarkThe Girl in 6ESteph's Books - Books with Road TripsThe Road to Tender HeartsNeedle LakePaper GhostsI Thought You Said This Would WorkHe Started It Check Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackGet Bookwild MerchFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrianMacKenzie Green @missusa2mba

Two truths can live in country music at once: you can miss the artists who made your 90s radio sing, and still be curious about an AI act topping a digital chart. We open the show with a roll call of “where did they go?” favorites—Cindy Thompson, Ricochet, The Wreckers, BlackHawk—and the songs that still trigger instant nostalgia. Then we jump to now: Vince Gill's well-earned lifetime honor, Jason Aldean's collab-heavy release strategy, and the first AI-powered country hit breaking through, for better and for debate.From there, we pull back the curtain on the creative process. Jay shares studio craft—why some singers record in the dark, how room reflections shape a vocal, and when gobos make a performance feel close-up and honest. We get practical about AI's role: using it to prototype arrangements, save money before studio time, and iterate faster without losing authorship. The rule of thumb is simple and fair—write the words and music, and it's your song; let AI decide the chords and melody, and you've got a machine co-writer. We also tackle live vs recorded: when the stage wins on chemistry, when the record wins on intent, and how overproduction can dull a great performance.Our mailbag lights up with your picks for stars who thrive without a huge range—think Willie, Dylan, Cash, Tim McGraw—and the case for emotion over acrobatics. We cover duets with real chemistry, reality TV pressure cookers, chart movers on both the main and indie lists, and some fun detours.Episode LinksAI Experiment: https://jayfranze.com/experiment/Jim Cristaldi: https://jayfranze.com/episode27/Robby Johnson: https://jayfranze.com/episode95/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Stephanie Rabus: https://jayfranze.com/episode149/Jonny James: https://jayfranze.com/episode171/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Ever wondered why the “darkest” country songs linger long after the last note fades? We crack open that list and find more than shock value—there's craft, confession, and a lineage of storytelling that made the genre brave. From murder ballads to Whiskey Lullaby, we unpack what makes a song haunt you and why those narratives still matter.Then we sprint through the modern pulse: Jelly Roll's global moment and community work, stacked festival lineups, Abbey Road sessions, and the not-so-silent rise of subtitles in streaming. Captions might sound boring, but they're changing how fans absorb lyrics and stories, especially in a word-first genre like country. We also talk about videos that miss the mark and why listeners instantly sense when visuals don't serve the song.The centerpiece is a rowdy, smart bracket to crown the best album of all time. You sent your picks—Rumours, Abbey Road, Pet Sounds, Tapestry, Van Halen I, The Wall, George Strait, Shania, Garth—and we fought it out. Journey's Escape made a bold run, but Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon took the crown for cohesion, sequencing, and sheer sonic gravity. Along the way, we teased apart “favorite” versus “best,” and what a truly great album must do from first second to last.We close with charts and indie highlights, then an ear-opening A/B test: a studio cut vs an AI-recreated version of the same song. The AI track is polished and passable, but side-by-side it lacks depth, stereo motion, cymbal realism, and those tiny human edges at the ends of phrases that make a vocal feel lived. It's not anti-tech—it's pro-feel. And the mailbag nails the theme: country isn't a costume; it's a culture. Americana is carrying a slice of that soul, and live shows still matter because sweat and risk can't be automated.Hit play for sharp opinions, a few laughs, and a lot of heart. If you enjoyed the ride, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop your “best album ever” in a review—we'll read the spiciest ones on air.Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Pop can sparkle and still say something. That's the throughline as we sit down with recording artist Kayn Falcon, who blends Connecticut calm with New York urgency to craft synthwave-leaning pop that moves the body and nudges the mind. Kayn opens up about producing his songs from the beat up, guarding his creative sessions like sacred space, and trusting a small team of specialists to elevate his mixes and masters without diluting his vision. If you've ever wondered how minimal rooms and maximal ideas can coexist, this is a masterclass in focus.We dig into the art of writing upbeat tracks with hidden depth—why tempos over 100 BPM don't have to mean shallow, how “Automatic” disguises social commentary inside a danceable hook, and what it takes to balance immediacy with meaning. Kayn also shares how a long-lost freshman-year hard drive reshaped his path, proving that early instincts can carry surprising power years later. Along the way, he talks image and branding, why he embraces a bright falsetto that once drew criticism, and how owning what makes you different can become your defining edge.Looking ahead, Kayn sketches a bold live vision: dancers, story-driven staging, and projector visuals to keep the narrative front and center without breaking the budget. Offstage, he's navigating algorithms with playful “confessionals,” building real community one post at a time, and turning work ethic into momentum through multiple jobs and relentless craft. If you're curious about synthpop, DIY production, artist branding, and the grind behind meaningful music, you'll feel right at home here.Loved this conversation? Follow the show, rate and review, and share it with a friend who needs a spark. Then tell us: which insight will you use in your own creative work?Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

What actually earns a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame—longevity, hits, or the kind of influence that changes what country sounds like? We dig into the real criteria and test the hype with a clear-eyed look at names like Alison Krauss, Brad Paisley, Crystal Gayle, Dwight Yoakam, Faith Hill, and more. Some feel overdue, others feel inevitable, and a few favorites might benefit from time cooking into legacy. With only three inductees selected each year across rotating categories, the bar isn't just high—it's selective by design.From there, we zoom out to what's shaping country now. Kenny Chesney's high-tech Sphere dates raise the production ceiling, George Strait's long-awaited stadium return brings tradition back to center stage, and Chris Young's new label era hints at a refreshed voice with deeper songwriting. We swap stories about artist rivalries, the power of small-venue touring, and how TV platforms keep catalog songs alive with surprising new performances. We also spotlight rising talent like Brian Fuller and revisit the studio lineage that built the modern sound—John and Martina McBride's Blackbird Studios, Tony Brown's classic touch, and Dan Huff's guitar-forward polish.Then we put our money where our mouth is: can AI co-write and produce a track that stands up to human-made? We fed it detailed direction—anthemic chorus, dynamic bridge, specific drum feel, vocal phrasing, even the final held note and guitar tag—and got a shockingly usable demo. It still can't replace a seasoned session leader's judgment or the nuance of live players, but as a demo engine for indie artists, it's a game-changer. Try twenty ideas fast, pick the strongest, and take that one to the studio with confidence.Episode LinksJeff King: https://jayfranze.com/episode6/Bob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/MaKenzie Phipps: https://jayfranze.com/episode73/Bruce Tarletsky: https://jayfranze.com/episode81/Robby Johnson: https://jayfranze.com/episode95/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Consulting: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

The first chord hits and the room lifts. That's the magic Robbie Johnson chases with his country-flavored take on You Shook Me All Night Long—faithful to AC/DC's fire, sparking new life with a searing fiddle solo and tasteful B3 that make crowds throw their hands up without missing the original's bite. We dig into how Robbie and producer Danny Rader protected the heart of the song, why restraint can be a power move in the studio, and how a great mix turns memory into momentum.From there, we wander Nashville's storied halls—Ryman, Union Station, RCA Victor—and trade stories about haunted spaces, legendary sessions, and the way a room shapes a record. Robbie opens up about a chilling encounter from his childhood, and we test the line between superstition and stagecraft. It's a perfect bridge into a bigger theme: places, people, and production choices that define country music's feel.We also get candid about the current landscape. Alan Jackson's farewell celebration, Clint Black's BMI Icon moment, and the Zach Bryan effect—why raw, imperfect recordings can feel truer than polished gloss. We unpack streaming's role in widening country's lanes, how Luke Combs and Chris Stapleton shifted radio's center of gravity, and why wordplay winners like Bar, None stick. The mailbag brings sharp opinions on small venues versus stadiums, the resurgence of vinyl and liner notes, and AI's looming influence on songwriting and sound design. Through it all, we keep returning to what lasts: honest lyrics, smart arrangements, and performances built for sing-alongs you can feel in your chest.Episode LinksChris Lusinger: https://jayfranze.com/episode17/Paul Leim: https://jayfranze.com/episode48/Andy Hull: https://jayfranze.com/episode81/Robby Johnson: https://jayfranze.com/episode95/High Mountain Breezes: https://jayfranze.com/episode113/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Consulting: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Buenos días, soy Yoani Sánchez y en el "cafecito informativo" de este viernes 10 de octubre de 2025 abordo estos temas: - ¿Por qué el Nobel de la Paz a María Corina Machado es un galardón esperanzador para Cuba? - El panorama epidemiológico se sigue agravando en Cuba - Encuentro con Wendy Guerra en Books & Books, Miami Gracias por compartir este podcast y te espero para el programa del lunes. Suscríbete a este canal de YouTube para no perderte ni un solo programa: https://www.youtube.com/@YoaniSanchezPeriodista

In this podcast, Ryan C. Bradley talks about Ghoulish Books, books bound in human flesh, his story writing process, and much more. About Ryan C. Bradley Ryan is a musician, podcaster, and the author of the novella Saint's Blood, Bad Connections: Horror Stories and the brand new novel Say Uncle from Ghoulish Books. His short … Continue reading

A smorgasbord of stuff to celebrate my 550th episode “milestone”! 3 new books!!  A webinar and workshop. Ways to organize a workshop.  And having some fun with YouTube comments. Books: Enhancing skill in American football: Revolutionizing practice design for transfer to game day The advanced ecological approach to skill development Constraints-Led Approach to Coaching Tennis   Webinars & Workshops: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ecological-approach-to-sc-and-agility-training-tickets-1683368463389?aff=oddtdtcreator https://www.wctc.edu/WCTC/Academics/Continuing-Education/Law-Enforcement-Training-Courses/Training-Description?class=2929 Police Workshops Preview: https://youtu.be/b0Vh_P25IY8?si=aO51HsPPNb98sV7O   Book a workshop with me!  Contact: admin@perceptionaction.com http://perceptionaction.com/ My Research Gate Page (pdfs of my articles) My ASU Web page Podcast Facebook page (videos, pics, etc)   Subscribe in iOS/Apple Subscribe in Anroid/Google   Support the podcast and receive bonus content   Credits: The Flamin' Groovies – ShakeSome Action Mark Lanegan - Saint Louis Elegy via freemusicarchive.org and jamendo.com

Mike steals the Pactum idea and pulls several books from The Tuesday Guy’s library and discusses them. 

Join Jeffrey Bellomo as he discusses caring for the dementia caregiver with Carrie Aalberts, also known as Dementia Darling. If you're a caregiver, it's important to understand that your work matters, your health matters, and you are not alone.     ONLINE RESOURCES  Dementia Darling - https://www.dementiadarling.com/ Teepa Snow - https://teepasnow.com/ Dementia Careblazers - https://careblazers.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/c/DementiaCareblazers Be Light Care - https://www.belightcare.com/ Hilarity for Charity - www.wearehfc.org National Council of Dementia Minds - https://dementiaminds.org/ The Association of Frontotemporal Dementia - https://www.theaftd.org/ Alzheimer's Association - https://www.alz.org/ The Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) - https://www.lbda.org/ Leeza's Care Connection - https://leezascareconnection.org/home AARP Caregiving Resource Center - https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/ Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health - https://cle.clinic/3Ju9DGv ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center - https://archrespite.org/ Lorenzo's House - https://lorenzoshouse.org/   BOOKS Books on Amazon that Carrie recommends - https://amzn.to/45ksA5K   PODCASTS willGather: Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One Gather Darlings  Caregiver Chats with Dr. Lakeyln Caregiver's Compass Remember Me Podcast   WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW (00:00) Episode introduction  (02:24) How a childhood experience sparked a lifelong mission  (05:15) Fighting the tragedy narrative and the importance of seeking support  (09:57) Why Carrie's speaking engagements focus on understanding “behaviors”  (12:01) Appreciating the work and influence of Teepa Snow  (15:04) Including caregivers and those living with dementia in the conversation  (19:28) Encouraging family support for caregiver parents  (21:05) Dealing with personality changes tied to dementia or brain damage  (24:14) How to connect with Carrie for resources and speaking events     ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master's degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language. Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn't happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website (https://bellomoassociates.com/) to learn more.  

In this thoughtful and timely conversation, Mike Baer is joined by Steve Rundle—economist, professor, and one of the early voices shaping the Business as Mission (BAM) movement. They explore the deep integration of theology, economics, and entrepreneurship, challenging the idea that ministry and business are separate callings. Steve shares insights from decades of teaching and research, speaks to common misconceptions about BAM, and offers honest reflection on the evolution of the movement. Whether you're an academic, a practitioner, or just wondering if business really has Kingdom potential—this episode is packed with wisdom, history, and faith-rooted clarity.

Book reviewer Anna Rankin talks to Jesse about her recommendations, Some Helpful Models of Grief, from Compound Press, by Aotearoa writer and artist Hana Pera Aoake and Notes to John by Joan Didion.

In this powerful solo episode, Mike Baer dives deep into the core purpose of Business as Mission (BAM), expanding on the traditional "fourfold bottom line" of financial, societal, spiritual, and environmental impact. He introduces a compelling "fifth bottom line": a renewed focus on engaging the unreached people groups of the world. Mike explains why traditional missionary models often can't reach these difficult-to-access areas, and how real businesses, by bringing economic and social value, are uniquely welcomed globally. He shares inspiring stories of how God is bringing the unreached directly to believers' workplaces, from factories in British Columbia to furniture businesses in Jakarta, employing people from some of the largest unreached groups. This episode is a bold call to action, challenging every believer—whether an entrepreneur, employee, or professional—to ask God how their calling can be connected to reaching those who have virtually no access to the Gospel. Discover how your business can be a strategic tool for global discipleship and community transformation, fulfilling the Great Commission in the 21st century. If you're ready to align your work with God's global purpose, this message is for you.

Join Mike Baer and special guest Dirk Cameron as they dive deep into the transformative world of Business as Mission (BAM). Dirk shares his incredible journey from a traditional CPA career to becoming a pioneering business missionary, revealing how he learned to integrate faith and entrepreneurship for global impact. Discover the power of 'job creation missions' and how businesses can be a strategic platform for advancing the Gospel, especially in unreached areas. This compelling conversation explores the challenges of isolation and financial stress faced by those in mission, and the vital importance of community and dependency on God. Learn how to bridge the sacred-secular divide and find your place in what God is doing through business worldwide. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a professional, or simply seeking to align your work with a higher purpose, this episode offers profound insights and actionable steps. Don't miss Dirk's vision for bringing the US economy closer to frontier markets through outsourced talent and services. If you've enjoyed this conversation, please like this video, subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories, and share it with a friend who needs to hear this message!

Join us as Ryan and Mike talk about impactful books and what they are currently reading.

In this powerful episode of the Business as Mission podcast, Mike Baer sits down with Deidre Gestrin, founder of Abundant Wellness Essentials and author of Burnout to Balance. Deidre shares her deeply personal story of burnout from 15 years in mental health—and how God led her through physical collapse into a place of restoration and purpose.They unpack how stress impacts your entire being—mind, body, and spirit—and why working from rest, not chaos, is God's design. Deidre introduces her model of the 7 Dimensions of Wellness, centered on spirituality, and shares how simple practices like intentional breathing and community can radically change your health and mission.Whether you're a business owner, missionary, or overwhelmed leader, this episode will meet you where you are—and help you take the first step toward balance.

In this compelling episode, Mike Baer sits down with Brian Albright, professor at Trinity Western University, to explore a journey that spans continents, calling, and crisis.From his early entrepreneurial drive to his transformation in Kenya doing NGO and hospice work, Brian opens up about how God reshaped his theology—from a narrow view of salvation to a holistic understanding of mission. He shares his struggle to reconcile business with faith, and how the tension between profit, purpose, and family tested everything he believed.You'll hear about the challenges of creating a sustainable hospice business model in Kenya, the painful sacrifices of family life, and the moment COVID forced his family to evacuate and reset their lives. But through it all, Brian discovered a deeper truth: that authenticity and obedience often speak louder than success.This episode is a must-listen for anyone wrestling with the integration of mission, business, and personal cost.

In this episode of the Business as Mission podcast, Mike Baer sits down with Chad Hufford—wealth manager, author of Forging Financial Freedom, and a passionate voice for Biblical stewardship. From his roots in Alaska to his calling in financial coaching, Chad unpacks the powerful mindset shift Christians need to break free from scarcity and anxiety around money.They explore how poor financial stewardship can derail even the most passionate missions, the importance of discipline, and how financial freedom isn't about early retirement—but unlocking your God-given purpose. Whether you're in ministry, business, or somewhere in between, this conversation offers practical and spiritual wisdom for stewarding finances with eternal impact.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (https://buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).

In this special travelogue-style episode, Mike Baer shares powerful reflections from his teaching trip across Argentina—from Buenos Aires to Mendoza. As he teaches on the biblical worldview of Business as Mission (BAM), he encounters a passionate hunger among church leaders and believers to reclaim their everyday work as a holy calling.From redefining BAM's four principles into compelling questions, to challenging the sacred-secular divide, Mike captures moments of breakthrough, laughter, and deep spiritual hunger. He shares how believers are awakening to the truth that business isn't just a platform for income—but a divine invitation to partner with Jesus in transforming lives, communities, and nations.This isn't just a report. It's a call to action for every entrepreneur, employee, and leader who believes there's a third path—beyond church or commerce—where your faith and work meet for eternal impact.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (https://buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).

After a 40-year career in trust banking, John Maurer was ready to retire—or so he thought. Instead, God had other plans: a second calling into global missions, Business as Mission (BAM), and now life leadership coaching. In this conversation, Mike Baer and John unpack how the Lord redirected John's path, why the Church often misses the connection between Sunday and Monday, and how coaching helps BAM practitioners around the world thrive—not just in business, but in life.John shares the story behind his unexpected shift from EPC missions leader to Ziglar-certified coach, what real coaching means (and how it differs from mentoring or consulting), and why helping people rediscover their dreams is a holy calling. If you're nearing retirement, feeling disconnected from your work, or wondering what's next—this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and a fresh take on living with eternal purpose.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (https://buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).

Jenna sits down with the legendary Judy Blume — the beloved author whose stories have shaped generations, opened minds, and helped countless kids feel seen. From childhood classics to bestselling adult novels, Blume's impact is undeniable, with 29 books, over 90 million copies sold, and translations in 39 languages. Recorded at her independent bookstore, Books & Books in Key West, this heartfelt conversation explores her creative journey, deep bond with readers, and the legacy she continues to build.

In this episode, Mike Baer sits down with Bill and Dana Wichterman, co-authors of the new book Stewards, Not Owners: The Joy of Aligning Your Money with Your Faith. Together, they unpack how Christians can move from compartmentalized giving to holistic stewardship—transforming their charitable and investible assets into tools for mission. Drawing on decades of experience in government, aid, finance, and global development, the Wickhams explain why business is not only a means of provision—but of restoration, dignity, and Gospel impact.They also address the blind spot in most believers' financial lives: investment capital. Learn how your money—whether in a retirement account or donor-advised fund—can be intentionally aligned with God's purposes through faith-driven investing and BAM (Business as Mission). If you've ever wondered what “full surrender” of your finances could look like without sacrificing strategy, this conversation offers practical starting points and an inspiring call to action.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (https://buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).

In this powerful solo episode, Mike Baer reflects on the incredible journey that took him from church planting and international missions to helping lead the largest light industrial staffing company in North America—from $200 million to $3.4 billion in revenue. More than numbers, this is a story of Kingdom purpose, discipleship in the workplace, and learning to lead from within—not as the boss, but as a servant with influence.Mike shares the spiritual breakthrough that began in Australia, how God used prayer, community, and culture to bring transformation, and how those lessons inspired his book, Business as Mission When You're Not the Boss. From the launch of Third Path Initiative to the formation of TriVenture and the global rise of national BAM leaders, this episode is both a retrospective and a bold call to action for the next generation of marketplace missionaries.If you've ever wondered whether your “ordinary job” can have eternal impact—this is for you.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (https://buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).

What if business wasn't a fallback option—but the exact calling God placed on your life?In this episode of the Business as Mission Podcast, Mike Baer interviews Dr. Sean Dwyer, a former CPA turned professor and researcher at the University of Oklahoma. Sean shares his incredible journey—from walking away from medicine, launching a clothing line, and joining YWAM, to now equipping Gen Z entrepreneurs with purpose-driven vision.They explore the tension many believers feel between "real ministry" and the marketplace—and how Sean's story helped him (and now his students) discover that business is not a second-class calling. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone questioning their vocational purpose, struggling with secular vs. sacred work, or longing to make a lasting impact.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (https://buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).

For Christians, what is the value of reading books other than the Bible? What are some books that most all Christians ought to read? What are some of the books that have most helped or influenced our two hosts?

Eric and Leslie discuss the thirty years of writing over thirty books. How did they get into book writing and what has their experience with authorship been like? The Ludys discuss their unique experience with stylistic collaboration, strategic content creation, and their journey of learning how to effective communication Truth through writing.